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Public relations internship job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected public relations internship job growth rate is 8% from 2018-2028.
About 22,300 new jobs for public relations interns are projected over the next decade.
Public relations internship salaries have increased 8% for public relations interns in the last 5 years.
There are over 50,905 public relations interns currently employed in the United States.
There are 65,163 active public relations internship job openings in the US.
The average public relations internship salary is $30,868.
Year | # Of Jobs | % Of Population |
---|---|---|
2021 | 50,905 | 0.02% |
2020 | 51,291 | 0.02% |
2019 | 51,329 | 0.02% |
2018 | 50,133 | 0.02% |
2017 | 49,022 | 0.01% |
Year | Avg. Salary | Hourly Rate | % Change |
---|---|---|---|
2025 | $30,868 | $14.84 | +2.7% |
2024 | $30,053 | $14.45 | +1.9% |
2023 | $29,487 | $14.18 | +1.2% |
2022 | $29,143 | $14.01 | +2.2% |
2021 | $28,514 | $13.71 | +2.2% |
Rank | State | Population | # of Jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 352 | 51% |
2 | Vermont | 623,657 | 232 | 37% |
3 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 180 | 31% |
4 | Delaware | 961,939 | 265 | 28% |
5 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 221 | 25% |
6 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 180 | 24% |
7 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 245 | 23% |
8 | Maine | 1,335,907 | 288 | 22% |
9 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 233 | 22% |
10 | Alaska | 739,795 | 165 | 22% |
11 | Idaho | 1,716,943 | 341 | 20% |
12 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 268 | 20% |
13 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 285 | 15% |
14 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 896 | 13% |
15 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 414 | 13% |
16 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 724 | 12% |
17 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 513 | 12% |
18 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 448 | 12% |
19 | Arkansas | 3,004,279 | 328 | 11% |
20 | Hawaii | 1,427,538 | 150 | 11% |
Rank | City | # of Jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. Salary |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Frankfort | 1 | 4% | $28,069 |
2 | Annapolis | 1 | 3% | $27,287 |
3 | Dalton | 1 | 3% | $29,465 |
4 | Atlanta | 3 | 1% | $29,343 |
5 | Urban Honolulu | 2 | 1% | $30,985 |
6 | Champaign | 1 | 1% | $32,135 |
7 | Grand Rapids | 1 | 1% | $33,654 |
8 | Hartford | 1 | 1% | $27,973 |
9 | Phoenix | 3 | 0% | $33,467 |
10 | Washington | 3 | 0% | $30,717 |
11 | Boston | 2 | 0% | $31,671 |
12 | New York | 2 | 0% | $31,162 |
13 | Baton Rouge | 1 | 0% | $25,458 |
14 | Chicago | 1 | 0% | $32,836 |
15 | Denver | 1 | 0% | $26,347 |
16 | Des Moines | 1 | 0% | $25,087 |
17 | Detroit | 1 | 0% | $33,564 |
18 | Indianapolis | 1 | 0% | $27,913 |
Washington State University
Loyola University New Orleans
Temple University
Brigham Young University
San Jose State University
Maryville University of Saint Louis
Methodist University
University of Akron
Columbus State University
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
University of Montevallo
University of San Francisco
University of Scranton
University of Detroit Mercy
Kimberly Lauffer: Public relations practitioners work in many different types of organizations, so it's hard to generalize a typical day. However, some activities include clipping (physically or electronically) mentions of their organization and its employees, coordinating interviews between media outlets and experts, identifying good internal stories and writing them, collecting B-roll for video news releases, identifying good external stories and pitching them to media outlets, monitoring social media, heading off or dealing with crises, etc. At the entry level in large academic, corporate, or agency-based organizations, a PR practitioner might have a very specialized role but in small or non-profit organizations, she might be a Jill-of-all-trades. Crucial public relations skills include writing, oral communication, critical thinking, and time management.
Kimberly Lauffer: Some of the drawbacks in public relations include the 24-7 nature of some roles (media relations, crisis communication, social media). It can be difficult for new practitioners to prioritize daily activities when they have multiple demands for attention. However, it can also be a rewarding career, both intrinsically and financially.
Kimberly Lauffer: PR is a good profession for a number of reasons. Depending on one's role, it often has a set, regular schedule. This is one reason why many journalists move into public relations after several years. Public relations can also be advocacy- or issue-focused, so when people have a strong interest in a particular topic (energy, animal welfare, health), it allows them to take an active role in promoting that issue.
Dr. Joy Daggs: I have quite a bit of advice:
1. Get as much experience as an undergraduate as possible. Many programs require internships, but even if they don't, seek opportunities to get experience. Take leadership roles in student organizations. Even if it's not specifically a 'public relations' entitled position, anything where you practice your skills is helpful. Even if you need to work a job in retail or service, those jobs still provide important benefits other than a paycheck. Don't discount your experiences!
2. Don't pass up opportunities to meet professionals. Many schools and departments bring their alumni on campus or do virtual events so that you can meet and chat with professionals. Even if it's not required for class, GO. You never know when a casual conversation may lead to an internship or an important professional connection.
3. Use your LinkedIn profile to your advantage. Make sure you have a professional picture that shows you in your best light. Follow organizations that you want to work for and other professional organizations related to your interests. I know of people getting interviews based off of LinkedIn interactions. Check your other social media accounts to make sure that you are not presenting yourself poorly. Most likely, organizations will Google you or look up your personal social media. There are reports of students losing opportunities because of poor social media choices.
Washington State University
Public Relations, Advertising, And Applied Communication
Ms. Chelsea Thomas: A public relations professional's job is to act as a liaison between the public and the client, helping to communicate effectively based on the client's needs. The goal is to communicate the client's messaging in a way that is consistent and mission-driven through a variety of communication tools and tactics. Communication tactics may include press releases, media collaboration, strategic meetings and media monitoring. Ultimately, the public relations professional is responsible for executing a well-strategized public relations campaign and message in an efficient, effective and timely manner for the benefit of both the public and the client being served. Someone entering the field of public relations, such as an intern, may be responsible for client media monitoring, assisting the executive team in organizing events, press releases and media pitches, and conducting general research on industry competitors, trends and media outlets.
Ms. Chelsea Thomas: Public relations is a good fit for those who enjoy a fast-paced lifestyle with low predictability. That said, a professional in this field will spend significant time building a well-planned, strategic campaign that anticipates potential issues and capitalizes on client successes. A person in this field would do well being organized, strategic, flexible and sociable. A strong writing capacity is a positive aspect as well. Conversely, those in this profession might dislike unpredictable hours, as this industry can sometimes require significant time, attention and dedication to the client's needs.
Ms. Chelsea Thomas: Public relations is a unique and dynamic field that allows professionals to execute both strategic and tactical initiatives. This profession allows one to experience a fast-paced industry where creativity, objectivity and strategy meet. No two days are likely the same; one can be filled with socializing at planned events, another working with media to manage external relations, and another spending quality time strategizing with a client representative. With the growing need for an organization to build and maintain a positive relationship with the target audience and stakeholders, public relations is an excellent profession for those skilled in communication and customer relationship management.
Pallavi Kumar: I can’t think of any other industry where your passion can become your profession. Because no matter what you are interested in, whether it’s the arts, science, sports, the environment, entertainment etc., there is a job in that area. And you have the ability to move into different areas of specialization because the core skills of PR translate across many areas of specialization.
Pallavi Kumar: Make a case for yourself when you get that first offer. Many PR majors enter the industry already trained both through their education and internships. Securing even a few thousand more with that entry-level position can have long- term results as you move up the ladder.
Pallavi Kumar: I think the ability to incorporate AI into your work so that you are more efficient and can deliver measurable results will be the most important skill that incoming professionals can have. The ability to be a storyteller never changes but knowing what the latest tools and trends are is also important.
Loyola University New Orleans
Public Relations, Advertising, And Applied Communication
Jeffrey Ory: Starting a career in public relations can be an exhilarating journey, filled with opportunities to shape perceptions and craft compelling narratives. As you embark on this path, there are a few foundational strategies that can enhance your success in the dynamic field of PR. First and foremost, cultivating a robust network is essential. The heart of public relations lies in forging strong connections. Engage actively with colleagues, journalists, and industry professionals. This can be achieved by attending industry events, participating in relevant organizations, and maintaining a vibrant presence on professional social media platforms like LinkedIn. These relationships will not only provide valuable insights and opportunities but also support your growth in the field. Equally important is honing your communication skills. In public relations, your ability to articulate ideas clearly and persuasively is paramount. Dedicate time to refining your writing and speaking abilities, ensuring you can deliver clear, concise, and compelling messages tailored to various audiences and media formats. This skill set is your toolkit, enabling you to convey your clients' messages effectively and resonate with your target audience. Staying informed cannot be overlooked. The landscape of public relations is constantly influenced by shifting industry trends, breaking news, and technological advancements. By keeping abreast of these changes, you can better anticipate and meet the needs of your clients and the media, thus solidifying your role as a knowledgeable and indispensable asset. Practical experience is another cornerstone of a successful PR career. Seek out internships or entry-level positions within PR agencies or in-house teams. These opportunities are invaluable for understanding the industry's dynamics from the inside out, providing a real-world context to the theories and strategies learned in academic settings. Lastly, embracing a proactive and creative mindset is crucial. Public relations thrive on innovation and initiative. Be ready to propose new ideas, tackle challenges with creative solutions, and manage crises with agility and poise. Your ability to think outside the box and act decisively in high-pressure situations will set you apart in the fast-paced world of public relations.
Gregg Feistman MA: It all depends on who you ask! I don’t know anyone who has ever worked in an agency setting likes figuring out timesheets! PR people are also often the last people to get thanked and the first people to get blamed when something goes wrong. It’s not always true, and it’s not always fair, but it sometimes happens. Sometimes, the pay is not what it should be, depending on the situation. On the other hand, if you are stimulated by new things happening every day, like to write, like to sink your teeth into issues, are a news junkie, have an innate curiosity, like to be a problem-solver and most importantly, have a love of lifelong learning, this is a great field to go into. Like any field, you have to pay your dues but it can be very rewarding. Plus, it’s fun! We are the “behind the scenes” people, meaning we can literally go back-stage sometimes. You’re often right in the middle of the action. Very little happens in the modern world, in almost any field, without a PR professional’s hand in it.
Gregg Feistman MA: The PR field is extremely varied and no two days are alike. There are basic tasks such as writing news releases, pitching story ideas to journalists, writing social media posts, writing for company blogs and websites, making videos, working on special events, etc. Then there are more sophisticated tasks, such as writing speeches, analytics, dealing with crises, managing issues, internal communications, reputation management, strategic planning, etc. Often PR professionals are doing some or all of these tasks during any one day.
Gregg Feistman MA: It's an extremely hot job market, and probably will be for the next several years. There are lots of opportunities out there in all kinds of industries, from healthcare to sports, entertainment, corporate, non-profit, agencies, government, etc. I believe it’s at least partly because of the rise of social justice movements over the past few years, the changing nature of work (remote, hybrid and in-person), and the eternal hunt for good talent. I also believe the impact of emerging technology, such a generative AI, virtual reality, augmented reality, etc., is becoming more important in the communication field, and companies and agencies are actively seeking people to help them understand and apply the new technologies to help meet clients’ needs.
Brigham Young University
Public Relations, Advertising, And Applied Communication
Brian Smith Ph.D.: Most see PR professionals as spin doctors who will turn a phrase or turn a profit for companies. Others think getting a degree in PR in about become an event planner or wedding planner. Neither of these are really true. Those who actually do PR will tell you that it’s about networking, being at the forefront of data-driven decision making, building networks, and creating initiatives that have a real impact on the social issues they care about. Of course, getting to manage social media is a high point, but most tell me that the real value comes in the opportunity to go beyond selling a product and making a difference.
Elizabeth Foster Ph.D.: Don't be afraid to negotiate and ask, but do your research first for comparable titles and markets. Continue to improve and broaden your skillsets through trainings and certifications; these will make you more marketable in your current job and attractive to potential employers. Leverage every professional opportunity you can, and never underestimate the value of your professional network. Invest heavily in building those connections!
Dr. Mathew Cabot APR: A PR practitioner's day-to-day responsibilities can widely vary depending on the practitioner's role, including media relations, social media management, content creation, crisis and reputation management, research and data analytics, and employee communication. Regardless of the specific role, all public relations practitioners help organizations behave and communicate in ways that build trust between the organizations they represent and the stakeholders on whom their success or failure depends. A beginning practitioner could be involved in a variety of tasks, including media monitoring, social media management, research, writing, content creation, and event planning and support.
Dr. Dustin York: As customers are becoming more and more reluctant to traditional advertising, PR is breaking through the noise. Businesses crave a good online reputation that attracts loyal customers, so PR skills are in high demand. Plus, it's a blend of writing, creativity, and tech-savviness - a hot commodity these days.
Dr. Dustin York: A PR pro's day is a juggling act of pitching stories to media, crafting content, planning events, and maybe even communicating an issue or crisis, but all their work comes down to some sort of storytelling. Newbies assist senior folks with projects, but some common tasks for entry-level pros include media listening and auditing.
Dr. Leslie Rasmussen: Public relations focuses on building relationships between organizations and audiences. Nowadays, audiences are inundated with options, and we must focus on connection, building community, and making people feel something. We get to think outside of the box and build strategy to make those connections for a variety of reasons and industries. Organizations, big and small, use PR to cut through the clutter and set themselves apart from the competition. The need spans across industries and organization size, so it's a perfect time to enter PR and find your fit.
Dr. Leslie Rasmussen: The exciting thing about working in PR is that it's never the same. You might be planning an event, writing news releases, developing social media strategies and content, managing campaigns, or working with the media, depending on the day. PR is also versatile - you can work in the auto industry, healthcare, politics, beauty, sports, entertainment... the possibilities are endless. No matter which path you take, the core skills we utilize in PR are writing, research, public speaking, organization, and creativity. How we use those skills will vary from day-to-day.
Methodist University
Public Relations, Advertising, And Applied Communication
Sara Erlichman Ph.D.: One of the top advice I see is that you document your successes with KPIs. Keep a Word file in your personal cloud documenting any and all positive feedback from colleagues and hard data that demonstrate successful results. Only you know exactly how you've impacted the company through your work, and no one is going to advocate for you as well as you can for yourself!
McKenna Vietmeier: A recurring piece of advice I give to recent grads is that building a career takes time. It's important not to fixate on finding the "dream job" directly after graduation and instead look for jobs that will help them shape their career. Identify roles where they can continue to build their skillsets or gain new experiences. A successful career means continuing to learn and grow in each position. Don't stop being a student the day you graduate!
Dr. Tiffany McBride: Recent graduates should use their leadership and experience to negotiate a competitive wage to maximize their salary and leverage their worth. I think using your network and industry connections is essential to finding companies that recognize your skills and knowledge. Develop relationships early on with faculty and staff from your college or university and cultivate relationships with internships and networking to build industry connections while in school. Highlight your internship or coursework expertise when negotiating your wage, and do not only tell potential employers what you have learned but show them. Showcase successful campaigns or projects and highlight how your unique abilities and experiences will help the organization succeed. Research sector compensation benchmarks and be confident in expressing your value in line with market standards.
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Communication And Media Studies
Marisa Peacock: Everything is public relations. The traditional approach to PR doesn't always apply. Because of the expansive and pervasive nature of how information is shared on and offline, if you're trying to educate, promote or persuade a public, that's public relations. As such, your job title might not reflect it, so when applying for jobs, focus more on the job responsibilities than the job title.
Good public relations specialists are curious. They love learning about how things work, the people who are involved, and about how the public engages - ask questions, attend events, meet the people at your company - this will all make your job easier, because you'll have a more holistic view about the brand, its products, and services.
Marisa Peacock: It's important to figure out how much it costs to keep you alive. Before job hunting, do the math. How much is rent, car, food, etc? Do you need a Starbucks coffee every morning or can you brew your own? Do you need health insurance (recent grads can stay on their parent's insurance until 26 in most cases)? Figure out that number and then add in buffer room so you can have some wiggle room or opportunities to save. That's your base salary. If you go below, you'll have to make concessions - some reasonable, some not. Use cost of living calculators to determine what salaries look like in other places. Remote and hybrid work is still available, so it's important to factor that in, especially if you're going to live in different locations than where you work.
When looking for jobs, don't underestimate your experience. Even if you haven't had PR-related internships, chances are you've demonstrated public relations skills that can translate well. If you worked in retail, for example, that's a lot of customer relations. If you worked front of house at a restaurant, you know how to engage a public. If you worked as a barista, you know how to meet deadlines, work in chaotic situations, and communicate with others.
Look for the skills that make you better at PR and then highlight those experiences on resumes, cover letters, and in interviews. These skills from different experiences may set you apart and make you eligible for more than just entry-level positions.
University of Montevallo
English Language And Literature
Dr. Emma Atwood: Now more than ever, in a fast-paced media landscape, we need people who understand how effective arguments work; who understand how persuasion, logic, and emotion affect audiences; and who can think critically about complex issues and see these issues from multiple perspectives. Training in English, Philosophy, and Communication helps prepare future leaders to pursue truth as they enter this landscape and transform it for the better.
Kevin Faigle: I would say a graduate needs to be able to adapt to a changing landscape of the business. Probably by your senior year students need to get more involved with internships to prepare themselves for their post-collegiate career. Most businesses have a public relations/media relations position and need to do what they can to get their foot in the door and bolster their resume.
Kevin Faigle: That's tough to answer. But one, try to see what other similar positions are being paid. There are plenty of websites where you can find salary ranges for positions and that may give a good basis for a starting point. Also, be sure to track everything you are good at and build that resume up. Sometimes a HR department will have a salary range in the job posting, and don't be afraid to ask for the higher amount or even negotiate. 100% of the questions you don't ask, the answer is no. If you are confident in your ability and confident in your background, then show that and push for a higher salary level.
University of San Francisco
Public Relations, Advertising, And Applied Communication
Dr. Zifei Chen: With the rapid development of technology such as generative AI, it will become even more important to understand how to use technology and tools effectively and *ethically* in today's public relations practice. It is also important to cultivate the soft skills of mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and empathic listening to navigate the ever increasingly fragmented media landscape, information overload, and polarized views.
Dr. Zifei Chen: A public relation job requires strong writing skills, interpersonal skills, and analytical thinking. In today's media landscape, one needs to understand how PESO (paid, earned, shared, and owned) channels are integrated in public relations practices. My advice for graduates beginning their career in public relations is to keep an open mind and be willing to collaborate across different functions, as the practices today are increasingly integrated. I would also advise them to find their community. Be proactive in joining in-person and virtual events hosted by professional organizations such as PRSA and IABC, and do not be afraid to go to networking events. You never know what the next conversation will lead you to!
University of Scranton
Public Relations, Advertising, And Applied Communication
Stacy Smulowitz Ph.D.: Public Relations: It is hard to say what individuals will like and dislike about specific jobs. That is really a personal choice. Many PR pros enjoy the variety in their jobs and the people they get to work with and meet daily. They also enjoy seeing the value they provide to the organization and the people they serve.
University of Detroit Mercy
Communication And Media Studies
Alexandra Hichel: Maximizing your salary potential when beginning your career involves strategic steps that go
beyond just your academic qualifications. Consider obtaining relevant certifications to bolster
your skill set. Certifications not only enhance your knowledge but also demonstrate a
commitment to continuous learning, making you a more valuable candidate in the job market.
Joining a professional association related to your area of interest can open doors to networking
opportunities and valuable insights. Organizations such as IABC, Social Media Club, or Public
Relations Society of America offer not only national but often local chapters, providing a
platform to connect with industry professionals, stay updated on trends, and potentially uncover
job opportunities that might not be widely advertised.
During your academic journey, seize every opportunity to gain hands-on experience through
internships. The practical skills and real-world exposure acquired during internships not only
enhance your resume but also make you a more competitive candidate when negotiating your
starting salary.
Building a digital portfolio is a proactive step to showcase the breadth and strength of your work.
This collection of samples allows potential employers to assess your capabilities and
contributions, reinforcing your value as a candidate.
Understanding your worth is crucial, but it's equally important to recognize that as a newcomer,
you may not have all the answers yet. Be open to learning and adapting, as this flexibility can be
an asset in negotiating salary and navigating the early stages of your career.
Knowing your audience extends beyond personal attributes to include a strategic approach in
communication. Researching reporters and publications, being creative yet truthful in finding the
right media angle, can set you apart. This skill not only demonstrates your understanding of the
industry but also positions you as someone who can contribute effectively to the organization's
goals.
By implementing these strategies, you can not only enhance your professional profile but also
maximize your salary potential as you launch your career in the competitive field of
communications.