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Public Relations Professor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Adjunct Professor (78717)

New Rochelle, NY ยท On-site

$1.3K - $1.5K/wk

... professors to teach classes in the department for Fall 2026. While other openings could arise, we ... Writing and Storytelling for Public Relations (MSC 370) This course required of students ...

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Public Relations Professor information

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$65K

$81.2K

$103K

How much do public relations professor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for public relations professor in the United States is $81,159.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,000.00 and $86,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a public relations professor?

Public Relations Professors are educators who specialize in teaching students about the theories, principles, and practices of public relations. They typically work at colleges or universities, conducting lectures, guiding research, and mentoring students who are interested in careers in PR or communications. In addition to teaching, they may also be involved in academic research, publishing scholarly articles, and staying current with industry trends to prepare their students for real-world challenges. Their role is crucial in shaping the next generation of PR professionals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a public relations professor?

To thrive as a Public Relations Professor, you need advanced academic credentials (typically a master's or doctorate in PR or communications) and a strong background in public relations theory and practice. Familiarity with digital media platforms, content management systems, and research tools like SPSS or Qualtrics is important for teaching and scholarly work. Excellent communication, mentorship, and networking skills help foster student engagement and professional development. These skills ensure effective teaching, relevant curriculum delivery, and the advancement of the PR field through research and student success.

What are some common challenges public relations professors face when balancing teaching, research, and industry engagement?

Public Relations Professors often juggle multiple responsibilities, including teaching courses, conducting research, and maintaining connections with the PR industry. The challenge lies in staying current with industry trends while fulfilling academic obligations such as publishing and mentoring students. Additionally, professors are expected to develop practical learning experiences and networking opportunities for students, which requires strong time management skills and ongoing professional development. Balancing these demands can be challenging, but it also keeps the role dynamic and rewarding.

What is the difference between Public Relations Professor vs Public Relations Specialist?

AspectPublic Relations ProfessorPublic Relations Specialist
Required CredentialsMaster's or Ph.D. in Communications, Public Relations, or related field; teaching experienceBachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, or related field; relevant experience
Work EnvironmentAcademic settings, universities, collegesCorporate, agency, or nonprofit organizations
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, research, academiaBusinesses, PR firms, nonprofits
Common Search & ComparisonAcademic roles, teaching, researchMedia relations, campaign management

Public Relations Professors primarily work in academia, focusing on teaching and research, often requiring advanced degrees. Public Relations Specialists work in corporate or agency settings, managing media relations and campaigns. While both roles involve communication skills, their work environments and responsibilities differ significantly.

How to become a public relations professor?

To become a public relations professor, you typically need a master's degree or doctorate in public relations, communications, or a related field. Relevant teaching experience, research, and a strong publication record are also important, along with expertise in communication strategies and media tools. Academic positions often require a combination of advanced education and scholarly work in the field.

What jobs can I do with a public relations professor degree?

A public relations professor degree prepares individuals for careers in public relations, corporate communications, media relations, and strategic communication roles. Graduates can work as public relations specialists, communication managers, media consultants, or corporate trainers, often utilizing skills in writing, media analysis, and stakeholder engagement.
More about Public Relations Professor jobs

What states have the most Public Relations Professor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Public Relations Professor jobs include:

Infographic showing various Public Relations Professor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 11% Internship, 61% Full Time, and 28% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $81,159 per year, or $39 per hour.

Assistant Professor of Public Relations

Bowie, MD โ€ข On-site

Bowie State University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schoolsย โ€ขย 11 - 50 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Posting Details
Job Posting Information
Posting Number
F213
Position Title
Assistant Professor of Public Relations
Rank
Assistant Professor 9115
Regular (PIN) or Long Term Contractual Faculty
Regular
Desired Start Date
08/23/2024
Open Date
01/02/2024
Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Duties and Responsibilities
Teaches undergraduate courses in public relations, other undergraduate communication courses, and some graduate courses in public relations and organizational communications in the Graduate Program in Organizational Communication; Performs creative activities, as well as scholarly activities including research that leads to publications in refereed journals, books and conference presentations and other scholarly pursuits; Serves as academic program coordinator for the public relations concentration (includes but not limited to advising and mentoring students, internship supervision, coordinating adjunct faculty and course schedules, serving on departmental assessment and accrediting committees); Serves as advisor to campus chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA). This announcement is for a full-time, tenure-track faculty position. Candidates who are ABD are encouraged to also apply if dissertation defense will be completed by August 1, 2024.
Conditions of Employment
Offer of employment is contingent upon successful completion of due diligence background check and verification of credential. Proof of U.S. citizenship or eligibility for U.S. employment (Immigration Control Act of 1986).
Please be advised, COVID-19 vaccinations are not required but encouraged for all eligible students, faculty and staff returning to USM institutions. This protocol is subject to change.
Experience
Significant professional and continuous experience (2-5 years minimum) in the public relations field at a national level; Demonstrated leadership position and active membership in professional public relations organizations.
Education
Doctoral degree in Communications, related or interdisciplinary field from an accredited institution.
Knowledge Skills and Abilities
Demonstrated commitment to excellence in teaching, scholarship and service; Demonstrated commitment to research and creative activities, including published books, research papers, and poster presentations; Demonstrated success in grant writing and grant awards; Demonstrated service as faculty advisor to campus student organizations, student publications, and student experiential learning activities.
Minimum Qualifications
Posting Detail Information
Special Instructions to Applicant