Extended Accelerator Program - Bachelor of Arts - Public Relations

The Extended Accelerator Program (EAP) is a three-semester program that includes an immersive English-learning experience. The program gives students firsthand practical and cultural understanding of the Gonzaga University campus and the Spokane area through its contextual curriculum. Upon successful completion of the program, students progress into the second year of their undergraduate education with a full year’s worth of academic credits.

The Bachelor of Arts - Public Relations Program combines the study of communication theory, speech writing and delivery, and corporate strategies with journalistic expertise. Students learn to skillfully manage communication between organizations and the people they serve. Internships with local, national and international organizations provide hands-on experience in campaign planning, corporate communication, and nonprofit organization advocacy.

As part of the Public Relations coursework, students work directly with a local organization in creating a comprehensive public relations plan and media kit. As part of the senior capstone course, public relations students develop a portfolio, articulate a philosophical statement of communication, and write a thesis.

Public relations skills also enhance other degrees. Political Science students interested in honing their political campaigning skills, students in the humanities with interests in promoting and publicizing the arts, and business students seeking to complement marketing and management concentrations often complete a Public Relations minor.