Advertising and Public Relations MS

Master of Science in Advertising and Public Relations

Prepare to lead brand communication and strategy in complex digital and media landscapes with the Advertising and Public Relations (PR) Master of Science in the Lew Klein College of Media and Communication.

Beyond developing and delivering creative brand messaging and campaigns in this online master’s program, you will form the strategic expertise necessary to shape impactful and meaningful brand communication through advertising and public relations across paid, earned, shared and emerging media. Courses focus on developing integrated communication plans grounded in audience research, storytelling, media planning and AI-enabled communication, preparing you to advance your career in this rapidly evolving industry.

With a foundation in ethical and research-informed practice, the program primes communication professionals to lead with creativity, data-driven insight and cultural awareness.

Program Details

Number of credits: 31
Format: Online, with some in-person experiences
Time to complete: Two years
Enrollment: Part-time

Apply Online

Apply to the Advertising and Public Relations program.

Visit the Application Portal

Why study advertising and PR in Klein College?

Industry focus and experiential learning: Klein offers real-world advertising and public relations practice through curated site visits and guest lectures from agency, marketing and media leaders, alongside faculty with industry expertise.
Industry-ready portfolio development: Build a professional portfolio relevant to the current market.
Flexibility with connection: The online format aligns with your current schedule and professional goals while prioritizing the robust in-person networking and mentorship opportunities offered through Klein and in Philadelphia, the fourth-largest media market in the country.
Interdisciplinary curriculum: Build expertise in brand strategy, brand storytelling, data-driven insights, AI-enhanced communication, PR consulting and digital media analysis so you are well-positioned for professional growth.

What can I do with a master’s degree in advertising and public relations?

You will build the advanced skills necessary to lead brand, advertising and PR strategy based on the latest trends, insights and best practices to take your career to the next level. Graduates take senior and leadership roles across creative, strategy and accounts including

content manager,
brand strategist,
digital strategist,
account manager and
public relations manager.

Is this program offered on a full-time or part-time basis?

This program is part-time only, so you can earn your degree while continuing to work. Typical completion of the program is two years.

Are there any in-person experiences?

The program includes 31 credits and is a mostly online, low-residency program, designed for working professionals. There are two required in-person experiences held at various locations in Philadelphia and at Temple’s Main Campus or Center City Campus.

One one-credit in-person immersion course (long weekend kickoff to the program)
Nine three-credit online courses that are live (synchronous) at set times and self-paced (asynchronous) courses
One capstone three-credit online course with an in-person component (one day)

Will I build a professional portfolio through the program?

Yes. Courses pair academic knowledge with applied projects—such as integrated campaign plans, audience research reports and media strategies—to include in your portfolio. The program culminates with a capstone course designed to anchor your portfolio.

Learning Outcomes

Through the program, you will:

Develop integrated strategy: Create strategic communication plans across advertising, public relations and emerging media, grounded in audience research and brand storytelling.
Connect theory and practice: Apply current research and industry best practices to real campaign, media and brand challenges.
Advance with AI: Evaluate AI’s impact on the communication industry and integrate it ethically and successfully into your work.
Lead with strategic and creative skills: Guide teams and collaborate with clients and communities.
Communicate responsibly: Apply ethical and culturally responsible practices to audience research, messaging and campaign decisions, so your work reflects and respects the communities you serve.
Showcase your work: Build a portfolio of applied projects, anchored by your capstone.

Program Format and Curriculum

The 31-credit master’s program includes the following courses, culminating with a capstone course.

Advanced Strategies in AI-Enhanced Social and Search Media
Advertising Research and Strategy
AI-Empowered Brand Communication
Consulting & Consultation in Public Relations
Data Driven Insights
Emerging Trends in Media Planning and Analysis
Law & Ethics in Public Relations
Storytelling Through Innovation
Strategic Marketing Management

Careers

Graduates of the Advertising and Public Relations MS program are ready for careers across strategic communication, brand management, marketing, reputation building and audience engagement. See information about how the program and Klein College prepare you for career advancement.

Program Contacts

Get more information about the program and the application process.

Jennifer Freeman, faculty director of the Advertising and PR MS and associate professor of instruction
Email: [click-for-email]

Kaitlin Pierce, graduate office director
Email: [click-for-email]

Tuition & Fees

View tuition rates and fees on the Office of the Bursar site. You can use the tuition calculator and reference the Temple University tuition rate schedule.

Our Advisors

Faculty advisors at Klein can help you navigate your program and discuss research opportunities, teaching assistantships and more.

Accreditation

Temple University’s departments and programs are accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Additional Program Information

School/College Site