Roughley Speaking Communications
Mount Mercy University Alumni Board President Lisa Roughley’s path to leadership began with a memorable fish story.
A professional, ethical approach to public relations
The foundation for success in high-demand careers.
Mount Mercy University’s public relations program is one of few in eastern Iowa providing students with an education in the core values, principles and guidelines of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA).
This major demonstrates how communication is involved in helping organizations communicate with their publics.
Students develop competence through understanding key concepts and strategic planning in public relations, and through mastering skills used in traditional public relations tactics. Real world projects and internships promote the linkage between classroom theory and everyday public relations practice.
Mount Mercy not only equips you with the practical knowledge in public relations but also with general life skills you will find useful after you leave campus.
Curriculum
Practice ethical and technical integrity while cultivating communication skills.
On the way to earning your bachelor of arts in public relations, core classes introduce students to modern communication concepts, providing vital foundations for work in three areas of study: public relations, communication, and journalism.
Tammy Koolbeck '86
Executive Director at Stephens Auditorium/VenuWorks
Tammy Koolbeck found her dream career thanks to a perfect internship placement and an instructor who knew Tammy better than herself.
Emilio Ramos '23
Public Relations
Emilio Ramos returned from his deployment and found a path forward in Mount Mercy due to their focus on the student.
Jenny Valliere '13
Public Relations, Communication
After a chance internship lit her passion for radio, Jenny Valliere did everything she could to succeed in the broadcast world—leading to a career as program director at KZIA.
Enrique Cortina '13
Public Relations
Enrique Cortina came to Mount Mercy to follow his passion for playing soccer while working toward earning an education he and his family could be proud of.
Careers in public relations
Field experience sets you apart.
Graduates from our public relations program have found jobs nationally and locally at companies like Kendall Hunt Publishing, U.S. Cellular, and Four Oaks.
Students follow a variety of paths, including:
- Media relations
- Employee relations
- Corporate communications
- Event planning
- Fundraising
- Sports team management
- College admissions
- Marketing
What are the next steps?
Mount Mercy offers competitive tuition and generous scholarships.
We also encourage all students to apply for federal, state, and other kinds of financial assistance.
Learn more about:
- Federal and state grants and loans
- MMU-offered scholarships
- Tuition reimbursement from employers
- 10% tuition discount for employees of partner organizations
- Veterans benefits
We make it easy by accepting applications year-round! No deadline, no fee, no pressure.
- Create your application
- Apply under standard admissions criteria or go "test optional"
- Request official transcripts from all institutions previously attended. Mail to:
Mount Mercy University Admissions
1330 Elmhurst Drive NE
Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52402
For more detailed instructions on how to apply, see our Admissions page.