Dr. Fred Cook

Professor

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Biography

Fred Cook worked at Golin for 30 years, having the privilege to work with a variety of high-profile CEOs, including Herb Kelleher, Jeff Bezos, and Steve Jobs. He managed a wide variety of clients, including Nintendo, Toyota, and Disney. In 2014, Cook published 'Improvise: Unconventional Career Advice from an Unlikely CEO,' which shares wisdom gained from his unique career experiences as a cabin boy on a Norwegian tanker, a doorman at a five-star hotel, and a chauffeur. In 2015, he accepted an additional position at the University of Southern California as the director of the USC Center for Public Relations at USC Annenberg, with a mission to shape the future of public relations through research, education, and thought leadership.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

2015-01-01 — Present

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

Director of the USC Center for Public Relations, shaping the future of public relations through research, education, and thought leadership.

Chairman

— Present

Golin • Global

Oversaw global communications and public relations strategies, working with leading brands.

Awards

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PRSA Professional of the Year

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Lifetime Achievement Award

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50 Powerful People in PR

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PRSA Publications Award

Courses

PR 490: Directed Research PR 590: Directed Research PR 598: Improvisational Leadership

Requirements for University of Southern California

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Total
Required:100
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree
Application Checklist
  • Resume
  • Personal Statement
  • Writing Sample/Journalism Portfolio
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Kira Talent Video Interview
  • Official transcripts
Specialization Notes

GRE is not required for Summer 2026 admission.