May 24, 2025  
2025-2026 Western Washington University Catalog 
    
2025-2026 Western Washington University Catalog

Journalism Public Relations Minor


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Introduction

Journalism majors and minors pursue theoretical and practical communication studies in a liberal arts setting. Courses in the public relations minor include writing, media studies and public relations courses to provide students with basic skills important for careers in this rapidly growing field.

Why Consider a Journalism Public Relations Minor?

The Journalism Public Relations Minor was added to provide a focus on public relations studies not covered in the Journalism Minor, which emphasizes news/editorial. Its focus on writing, editing, analysis of information and communicating to a variety of audiences using a breadth of communication platforms is of interest to many employers in today’s fast-changing economy. The Journalism Public Relations Minor is an excellent complement to majors such as business, marketing and communication studies.

Student Resources

Department website: Journalism

Contact information: Academic Department Manager, Jennifer Dalton, Communications Facility 255, 360-650-4583, torresj3@wwu.edu

Degree Works: Current students should also log on to Degree Works to check student-specific program progress.

Career Services Center: Connect major to a career

Sample Careers: Reporter, Editor, Customer Service Representative, Public Relations Specialist, Community Relations Director, TV News Anchor, Speech Writer, Advertising Copywriter, Copywriter, Market Research Analyst, Lobbyist, Photojournalist, Designer, Multimedia Producer, All careers involving communication

How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):

Students interested in completing a minor in Journalism/Public Relations must have a 2.5 GPA or higher at Western. They should contact the Journalism department manager as early as possible to complete paperwork. Journalism and PR courses are in high demand, and we work closely with minors to place them in classes in a timely fashion for graduation.

Grade Requirements

A grade of C- or better is required for a student’s major or minor courses, and supporting courses for majors and minors.

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