FOR STUDENTS
Students simply add COM CM 580 to their schedule when they register for classes on StudentLink. Students can take the class for two or four credits.
For students interested in applying for a leadership position on PRLab’s executive board, see the E-board application page.
1) How do you sign up for PRLab?
2) I’ve already had internships, is PRLab the same thing?
Students enrolled in PRLab are not interns. They are account executives on a team working for a paying client and reporting to their account supervisor – just as in a real PR agency setting. Unlike the PR internship, we provide students with clients and work they truly own through completion.
3) If I’m a PR major, do I have to take PRLab?
PRLab is an elective course for undergraduate PR majors in the College of Communication. However, graduate students must take either COM CM580 – PRLab or COM CM 809 – Internship.
4) What if I’m not a PR Major, can I still take PRLab?
Absolutely. While its design is geared toward PR majors and minors, any student can take PRLab, as long as they have taken the prerequisite courses.
5) Can you take PRLab more than once?
Students can take PRLab as many times as their schedule allows. However, students can only receive a maximum of eight (8) credits toward their graduation requirements (four as an account executive and four as a member of the executive board). Students with questions about their credit requirements should see Undergraduate/Graduate Affairs or check in with Professor Shanler or Professor Joseph.
6) How is PRLab organized?
Please see the agency structure page for PRLab’s organizational chart and a detailed job description for all student staff members and the faculty board of directors.
7) What are the prerequisites for taking PRLab?
The majority of PRLab students are juniors, seniors, and graduate students. Undergraduate students must have taken Principles and Practices of Public Relations: COM CM215 (formerly 301) and Writing for Mass Communication: COM CM 331. It is also recommended that students have already taken or are enrolled in Media Strategies and Management. Graduate students will need to have taken COM CM701 and COM C707, and it is recommended that graduate students have already taken or are enrolled in Media Relations.
8) How many hours a week is PRLab?
The hours of Account Executives and Account Supervisors vary based on the class credit they signed up for. Please click here for details.