Service-Learning in PR

A proven pedagogy, service-learning integrates community service with curriculum, providing a professional, personal and academic experience that enriches student learning.

The public relations sequence of the Department of Media, Communications and Journalism at California State University, Fresno provides service-learning opportunities for students in MCJ 152S (Public Relations), MCJ 158S (Public Relations Writing) and MCJ 159S (PR Cases & Campaigns). The "S" after each class indicates that this course has been officially designated as a service-learning course by the University.

MCJ 152S-Public Relations
Students taking MCJ 152S are partnered with one of more than 25 Community Benefit Organizations (CBOs) for 15 hours. During this period, students put classroom concepts into practice in a real world environment, providing the students with "hands-on" experience and the CBO with much-needed assistance.

MCJ 158S-Public Relations Writing
Students enrolled in MCJ 158S produce a myriad of public relations pieces - including newsletters, news releases, website analysis, social media strategy, social media posts and media pitch letters - for a nonprofit client. The class partners with one main client and one additional client during the semester. With this program, not only do students gain valuable writing experience, but also the chance for their writing to be used by the client - an amazing experience for all!

MCJ 159S-Public Relations Cases & Campaigns
Students in MCJ 159S use their combined knowledge and experiences in the public relations field in order to plan, build and execute a public relations campaign for a CBO. Students are responsible for all aspects of the campaign, including managing a real budget and all client contact. At the end of this course, students analyze the results of their campaign based on the goals they set in the beginning. This real campaign provides students will an unbelievable real-world experience that is the ultimate in experiential learning.

For our Service-Learning Partners: Here are some tips for the best possible experience with our students.