Communications & media
Public relations specialist
Plan communication, write public-facing material and help organizations maintain relationships.
BLS · May 2025
EDUCATION & ENTRY
Communication study + a portfolio
A communication or public relations degree can support this route. Develop writing samples, campaign work and internships; choose opportunities that demonstrate audience research and ethical communication.
The state’s typical entry education classification is “Bachelor's degree.” This describes the occupation broadly; employers, programs and licensing bodies set specific requirements.
CONNECT THE CAREER TO A PLACE TO LEARN
Oregon training options
These are related routes to investigate. Confirm the full preparation, current admissions and eligibility for your intended role with the provider.
Eastern Oregon University
Communication & Media Studies
Study communication and media while building writing, audience-analysis and presentation skills.
Ask: What client projects and writing samples could I finish before graduation?
Program page reviewed September 15, 2026
University of Oregon
Public Relations
Develop writing, campaign planning, audience research and public communication skills.
Ask: What real-client work would become part of my portfolio, and how are internship opportunities arranged?
Program page reviewed September 15, 2026
Take this question to a counselor.
Would I enjoy turning complex information into clear messages for different audiences?
Before choosing a program, ask for prerequisites, the complete timeline, class and placement schedules, and a full cost estimate including supplies, exams, travel and living expenses.
Build a working cost estimate →Understand the numbers.
The median is the midpoint of estimated wages for Oregon workers in this occupation. The hourly median is $36.01. These figures describe workers across experience levels; they are not starting pay or the earnings of graduates from the programs below.
Oregon projects employment moving from 4,831 jobs in 2024 to 5,191 in 2034. The projected 4,396 openings over the decade include growth and replacement needs as workers leave an occupation. Dividing that total by ten gives the rounded annual average shown above. These are projections, not today’s vacancies.
How to read wage information →