Chester Burger Scholarship

Name: The Chester Burger Public Relations Scholarship

Award Amount: $1,000

Information And Eligibility:
The Chester Burger Public Relations Scholarship is a graduate-level academic award established to recognize and support students who demonstrate excellence and promise in the field of public relations and strategic communications. Named in honor of Chester Burger, a highly respected leader and advocate within the public relations profession, this scholarship reflects a commitment to advancing professionalism, ethical communication, and leadership within the industry.

The scholarship is administered through the Public Relations Student Society of America and is open to students enrolled in graduate programs at accredited colleges or universities in the United States. Eligible applicants must be pursuing advanced study in public relations, journalism, communications, or another closely related discipline that prepares students for professional practice in public relations and media relations.

Applicants are expected to demonstrate a strong academic foundation, with a minimum undergraduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Beyond academic performance, the scholarship emphasizes intellectual engagement with the field, critical thinking, and the ability to articulate ideas clearly and persuasively. The required scholarship essay allows applicants to showcase their understanding of public relations, professional goals, and perspectives on communication-related issues.

A distinguishing feature of the Chester Burger Scholarship is its accessibility. Applicants are not required to be members of PRSSA in order to apply, making the scholarship available to a broad range of qualified graduate students nationwide. The award may be used at any U.S. institution offering an eligible graduate program, providing flexibility for students across different academic settings.

Scholarship funds may be applied toward tuition, fees, textbooks, or other education-related expenses. In addition to financial support, the scholarship provides professional recognition that can enhance a recipient’s academic profile, résumé, and credibility within the communications industry. Recipients are recognized as emerging professionals with strong potential to contribute meaningfully to public relations practice and scholarship.

Selection is based on academic achievement, quality of the submitted essay, strength of recommendations, and alignment with the scholarship’s mission. The Chester Burger Public Relations Scholarship supports students who are committed to advancing the field through thoughtful, ethical, and effective communication.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be enrolled in a graduate degree program at an accredited U.S. college or university.
• Must be majoring in public relations, journalism, communications, or a closely related field.
• Must have an undergraduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.
• Must demonstrate academic excellence and interest in the public relations profession.

Application Requirements:

• Completed online Chester Burger Scholarship application.
• Scholarship essay of up to 1,000 words.
• Official academic transcripts.
• Completed letters of recommendation as specified by the scholarship guidelines.

Deadline: June

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