Dr. Yi Luo talks to students about the benefits of the Master’s degree
in Public and Organizational Relations
Photo Credit: Shakeema Edwards
Montclair State University hosted one of many roundtable information sessions offering individuals who are interested in obtaining a Master’s degree in Public and Organizational Relations a chance to see what the program has to offer on Oct. 13.
At the meeting, Dr. Yi Luo, Program Coordinator, and Recruitment Coordinator, Matt DiBartolomeo, offered insight into the program. The event included information about the steps of the application process and the program goals and structure as well as a portion where attendees were encouraged to voice any questions about whether or not the program is right for them.
Making the decision to enroll in graduate school has become a popular concern, especially when one considers the average amount of applications submitted for one job is about 200. Often, students who have the resources to participate in a graduate program have better chances of improving their résumé and gaining in-depth knowledge of a chosen field.
DiBartolomeo recounted a time when he worked recruitment for a company. Reading résumés to locate a worthy candidate for an open position was among his responsibilities. When reviewing two résumés side-by-side, the person with the most qualifications will be called back for an interview, he said. Individuals who have a Master’s degree accompanying a Bachelor’s degree appear to be better suited for a position.
“Undergraduate education is more about foundation,” Luo said. “Graduate programs give a higher and better understanding.”
The Master’s program for Public and Organizational Relations at Montclair State gives students the opportunity to meet today’s employer demands. The goals of the program are to teach students strategic thinking, communication skills, savvy media use and leadership.
When asked why Montclair State focuses on these four goals, Luo said, “we want students to be at the top of their game” and “because these four expertises are the driving force behind an effective media campaign.”
The program also focuses on helping students to build on managerial skills in order to move up the corporate ladder.
Full-time graduate students will be able to complete the program within two years and part-time students can complete it in three years. The requirements include 11 courses, six of which are core courses and five electives. Career paths for graduates of the program range from Corporate Public Relations Director to Human Resources Manager, Local and State Government Public Affairs Manager to Publications Editor and anywhere in between.
Students can begin by submitting an application online, which requires the following: official transcripts, a current résumé, two letters of recommendation, an essay, an official GRE score and a $60 application fee.
Students interested in the MA in Public and Organizational Relations can feel free to contact Luo at luoy@montclair.edu.
