In a review of the literature regarding the current and projected status of public relations degree programs and major trends in public relations practice in the United States, this paper analyzes aspects of the political/economic/social/cultural environment (PESCE) affecting the practice and teaching of public relations. The paper covers PESCE implications for the education of future public relation practitioners, and offers specific recommendations concerning the development of effective public relations degree programs. It notes that the recommendations are responsive to PESCE trends, major developments in the practice of public relations, employment requirements in the field, and maturation of public relations as an academic discipline. (CRH)