PR423

041113

As unforeseen and unprecedented events occur, the role of the public relations practitioner in facing a crisis is of critical importance. People demand immediate information to explain and justify the actions of individuals, corporations, government entities and nonprofit organizations. At the same time, without thoughtful, careful responses a crisis can escalate with unfortunate results. This course will examine the specific strategies and actions to take before, during and after a crisis communication occurs, and review cases of successful and unsuccessful responses those in authority displayed in such instances. Readings and discussions will focus on case studies of historical and contemporary emergency situations and how the issues were handled, with close examination as to the role of public relations and its impact on the outcome.

GRD - Regular Grades A, B, C, D, E

Undergraduate