Perceptions of Utility and Importance of International Public Relations Education among Educators and Practitioners

Abstract

The world increasingly has a global economy. The demand for public relations practitioners who understand and can communicate effectively in this global economy is also rapidly increasing. This qualitative study examines the perceptions of educators and practitioners who self-identify themselves with “international public relations.” It explores the perceptions of utility and importance of various components of education and training among these educators and practitioners through in-depth interviews. Specialists perceive an international PR curriculum to be highly important for students; they maintain that international training lends great credence and utility on the job. Unfortunately, due to low faculty numbers, accreditation policies, and other identified constraints, international public relations courses are not prevalent in most U.S. public relations programs.