PBRL 5465: Crisis Management Communications

(formerly MEDC 5465: Crisis Management Communications)

Course Description

A specialized function of the public relations practice is the management of crisis communications. Students in this course study the relationship of the organization and its culture to the external environment in times of crisis. Risk assessment, preparation of a crisis plan, and use of appropriate media in addressing crisis communication needs are studied.

Prerequisites

MEDC 5000 Media Communications and PBRL 5322 Public Relations or PBRL 4800 Media Relations.

Incoming Competencies

Students are expected to perform graduate level work, including writing and basic research. Also, as for all Internet courses, students must be disciplined and self-motivated.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course students will have:

A full understanding of the affect a crisis can have on the reputation and success of businesses and organizations

Ability to formulate a crisis communications plan that will prepare the organization for communicating in a crisis

Ability to identify key messages, formulate appropriate responses and utilize practical techniques to communicate with stakeholders about crisis situations

Skills necessary to address the issues facing public relations practitioners in businesses and organizations when a crisis situation demands immediate public response

Thorough knowledge of practical techniques and planning necessary to successfully communicate during a crisis situation

Understanding of the dynamics and implications of various public relations strategies

Mastery of crisis communication theories, as well as practical techniques and planning necessary to successfully communicate during a crisis situation

Understanding and mastery of writing skills necessary for preparation of written analysis, reports and case studies, including English grammar, punctuation, sentence construction, word choice, and syntax.

Required Textbooks and Course Materials

Please go to MBS Direct to find the appropriate textbooks and other materials for this course.

Please be aware when purchasing your textbooks that the International versions of the text may differ from the Domestic (North American) version required for your course.

Policy Statements

This course is governed by the University's policies, as published in the University catalog. They can also be found online at http://www.webster.edu/gradcatalog/policies.shtml.

Any student caught cheating or committing plagiarism may fail the class and be subject to further disciplinary action.

This syllabus may be revised at the discretion of the instructor without the prior notification or consent of the student.

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