Corporate and Community Relations Certificate
With a plethora of media outlets and the 24/7 news cycle of today, organizations must communicate effectively with their stakeholders more than ever. Whether notifying employees of an internal policy update or releasing exciting news into the community, writing and distributing well-crafted messages is a valuable skill.
This 18-credit interdisciplinary certificate in corporate and community relations combines courses in communications, business, English, and public service to give you a solid foundation in effective messaging strategies.
Certificate at a Glance
6 courses (18 credits) | Some have prerequisites.
Finish in as little as 2-3 terms or at a pace that fits your schedule.
This certificate can be pursued as a standalone program or in conjunction with the completion of another degree at Pitt.
Who Should Participate
- Individuals charged with communicating company and organizational news, policies, benefits, or messages to fellow employees
- Individuals charged with communicating and disseminating company and organizational news to an external audience, thereby improving public perception of the organization
- Individuals interested in advancing the causes of community, civic, or volunteer organizations
- Recent graduates or current students who wish to pursue a career in corporate or community communications
Program Expectations
Graduates of this program will be able to:
- Apply a theoretical understanding of mass media process, history, and ethics to a communications-related career
- Identify and analyze audience traits, perspectives, and motivators
- Manage and navigate professional relationships with a wide range of constituents
- Develop and write clear messages that support organizational goals
- Create professional and effective communications strategies and persuasive written materials, including proposals, speeches, marketing plans, and news stories
Credit Requirements
- The corporate and community relations certificate requires 18 credits, including six credits of core classes, six elective credits, and six specialization credits.
- Students must achieve a minimum grade of C (2.0) or better for all courses required for the program.
- Credits earned at other accredited educational institutions may be eligible for transfer. However, a minimum of nine credits must be earned at the University of Pittsburgh.
How to Declare
Students must meet requirements for admission to the College of General Studies. An online application must be completed and returned to CGS.
Learn More and Apply »Coursework
Core Courses: 6 credits
Both of the following courses are required.
Electives: 6 credits
Choose two of the following courses.
Note: CBA students may use BUSMKT 1040 in place of BUSERV 1940.
- COMMRC 1211 - PUBLIC RELATIONS 1
Specialization: 6 credits
Select two courses from the list of approved electives.
➤ Communication (COMMRC)
Approved Topic: New Media Technologies
➤ English: Writing and Composition (ENGCMP and ENGWRT)
➤ Film and Media Studies (FMST)
➤ Psychology (PSY)
➤ Public Service (PUBSRV)
➤ Sociology (SOC)
➤ Urban Studies (URBNST)
Resources & Flexible Options
Flexible Learning Options
Gain professional communication skills through a mix of in-person and online courses designed to fit your schedule.
View Online CoursesPlanning Resources
Use the Corporate & Community Relations Certificate Checklist (PDF) to plan your courses, internships, and career path.
Download Checklist (PDF)Pitt Opportunities
You’ll have plenty of support and chances to get involved at CGS and the greater University community:
Note: Requirements are subject to change. Check with an academic advisor before registering.