Basic Job Description
The Army Public Affairs Specialist participates in and assists with the supervision and administration of Army public affairs programs primarily through news releases, newspaper articles, Web-based material and photographs for use in military and civilian news media.
Duties performed by Soldiers in this MOS include:
Research, prepare and disseminate news releases, articles, web-based material and photographs on Army personnel and activities. Gather information for military news programs and publications within your unit and around the Army. Develop ideas for news articles. Arrange and conduct interviews. Collect information for commercial media use. Write news releases, feature articles and editorials. Conduct media training. Work as an escort or liaison to civilian media.
Training Information
Job training for a public affairs specialist requires 10 weeks of Basic Combat Training and 12 weeks of Advanced Individual Training with on-the-job instructions.
Part of this time is spent in the classroom and part in the field, including learning hands-on how to write news stories, operate a camera, and edit newspapers and photographs. You’ll also put together a real newspaper contributing stories and photographs.
Some of the skills you’ll learn are:
- News, feature and sports writing and research
- Newspaper design and production
- Interviewing techniques
- Photojournalism (photography journalism)
- Public speaking
- Media Relations
ASVAB Score Required: 107 in aptitude area GT
Security Clearance: None
Strength Requirement: light
Physical Profile Requirement: 222221
Other Requirements
- Be able to type 20 WPM prior to school attendance
Similar Civilian Occupations
- Editors
- Photographers
- Public Relations Specialists
- Reporters and Correspondents
