Professional Communications Organizations

There are scores of excellent organizations for students and professionals in the Communications field to be a part of. Below are just a few of the many available. Membership definitely has its privileges, because being associated with these organizations means you’re kept abreast of current happenings in the communications industry, you’re given access to special education opportunities to further your knowledge and understanding of the industry, you’re given the inside scoop on the many opportunities for employment available, and so much more!

Public Relations Society of America – (PRSA.org)
This organization was chartered in 1947, and to date is the world’s largest organizations of public relations professionals. It’s made up of over 21,000 members, and its goal is to set standards of excellence and uphold principles of ethics for the PR profession. PRSA also advocates for PR issues. The organization is an excellent networking resource, with professional interest sections that put professionals in touch with each other who are looking to share and gain knowledge and expertise.

National Communications Association – (Natcom.org)
This organization was created in 1914, and is one of the largest of its kind dedicated to communication. The organization’s mission is to work to understand and better all forms of human communication. It’s a non-profit organization that boasts over 8,000 members.

Association for Women in Communications – (Womcom.org)
Founded over a century ago, this organization is designed to encourage and support women’s advancements in the field of communications. A wide range of communications segments are represented within the organization, including print, broadcast journalism, television and radio production, PR marketing, and more. Members have the advantage of networking with mentors, exploreing career opportunities and enrolling in educational programs.

National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ.org)
Founded in early 1975, the NABJ is the largest organization in the US of journalists of color. It has over 3,000 members nationwide, and exists to, among other things, increase the number of black journalists in media workplaces and expand job opportunities for aspiring black journalists young and old. The NABJ hosts conventions that attract hundreds of recruiters, so it is an excellent employment opportunity resource.

Alliance for Women in Media (awrt.org)
Formally known as American women in radio and television, this organization is available to women who work in, or want to work in media. Founded in 1951, the organization serves as a resource and as an exchange of ideas medium for its members. The organization offers memberships of all different levels to accommodate women at whatever stage of their career they may be in.