Advertising

The Bachelor of Arts in Advertising at Iowa State University of Science and Technology offers students a comprehensive education in the dynamic field of advertising and marketing communications. This program is designed to prepare students for successful careers in advertising agencies, corporate marketing departments, media outlets, and digital marketing firms. The curriculum emphasizes the development of creativity, strategic thinking, and technical skills necessary to craft compelling advertising campaigns across various platforms. Students will engage in coursework that covers core areas such as advertising strategy, consumer behavior, media planning, copywriting, graphic design, digital marketing, and data analytics. Through both classroom instruction and hands-on projects, students learn to analyze target audiences, develop brand messaging, and utilize the latest digital tools and media channels. The program also prioritizes ethical considerations and cultural awareness in advertising practices, equipping students to produce responsible and effective marketing solutions. Practical experience is a key component of the program, with opportunities for internships, portfolio development, and collaboration with industry professionals. Iowa State University's strong connections with local and national advertising agencies provide students valuable networking opportunities and real-world insights. Graduates of the program are well-prepared to enter the competitive advertising industry, pursuing roles such as account executives, media planners, copywriters, digital marketing specialists, and brand managers. The Bachelor of Arts in Advertising at Iowa State University combines a robust academic foundation with practical skills and industry engagement to foster innovative and ethical advertising professionals ready to meet the evolving demands of the modern marketplace.

CORE REQUIREMENTS

• JL MC 101 Mass Media and Society
• JL MC 110 Orientation to Journalism and Communication
• JL MC 201 Reporting and Writing for Mass Media (C+ or better)
• ADVRT 230 Advertising Principles

MAJOR REQUIREMENTS

• ADVRT 301 Strategic Planning for ADVRT and PR
• ADVRT 334 OR 336 (C+ or better)
• JL MC or ADVRT 300 level from approved list 
• JL MC or ADVRT 300 level from approved list 
• ADVRT 434, 435 OR 436 
• JL MC 400 level from list 
• JL MC 460 Law of Mass Communication
• ADVRT 499 Professional Media Internship

300-Level Courses (total of 6 credits-fill in on front) 

• ADVRT 334 Advertising Creativity
• ADVRT 335 Advertising Media Planning
• ADVRT 336 Advertising Account Management
• JL MC 306 Electronic Media Production
• JL MC 310 Fundamentals of Photojournalism
• JL MC 312 Advanced Techniques in Photojournalism
• JL MC 315 Multimedia Production
• JL MC 316 Introduction to Digital Publishing
• JL MC 317 Publishing for Mobile Devices
• JL MC 321 Public Relations Writing
• JL MC 341 Contemporary Magazine Publishing
• JL MC 390 Professional Skills Development

400-Level Courses (total of 3 credits-fill in on front) 

• JL MC 401 Mass Communication Theory
• JL MC 406 Media Management
• JL MC 453 Electronic Media Technology and Public Policy
• JL MC 454 Critical Analysis and History of the Moving Image
• JL MC 461 History of American Journalism
• JL MC 462 Media Ethics, Freedom, Responsibility
• JL MC 464 Journalism and Literature
• JL MC 474 Communication Technology and Social Change
• JL MC 476 World Communication Systems
• JL MC 477 Ethnicity, Gender, Class and the Media
• JL MC/ADVRT 497 Special Topics in Communication

• Applicant must have a B- or 3.70 (out of a possible 5.00) cumulative grade point average in academic subjects at secondary level. The following subjects are not included in the CGPA: drawing, military training, music, labor/vocational study, and physical education. ƒ
• Students who do not meet the CGPA requirement above but who rank in the top half of their high school graduating class will be given consideration upon receipt of their official rank from the school. 
• TOEFL Internet-Based TOEFL (IBT) score of 71 with a minimum score of 17 in both the Writing and Speaking sections, Paper-Based TOEFL (PBT) score of 530
• IELTS Overall band score of 6.0 with no sub score below 5.5

Scholarships

• International Merit Scholarships
• Anne Doyle International Student Award

The Bachelor of Arts in Advertising at Iowa State University is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for a dynamic and evolving industry. The curriculum emphasizes both the creative and strategic aspects of advertising, providing students with a solid foundation in messaging, media planning, consumer behavior, and digital marketing techniques. Students have the opportunity to learn from experienced faculty members who are active professionals in the advertising field, ensuring that the education is relevant and aligned with current industry standards. The program includes courses in writing, visual communication, campaign development, and research methodology, all aimed at fostering innovative thinking and effective communication skills. Students are encouraged to develop a strong portfolio through practical projects and real-world assignments, which are vital for career readiness. The university also offers opportunities for internships and collaborations with local businesses and advertising agencies, allowing students to gain valuable hands-on experience. In addition to coursework, the program emphasizes ethical considerations and social responsibility in advertising, preparing students to develop campaigns that are both effective and socially conscious. Graduates of the program are equipped to pursue careers in advertising agencies, corporate marketing departments, media companies, and freelance opportunities. The program aims to establish graduates as versatile professionals capable of adapting to technological changes and cultural shifts in the industry. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical application, students exit the program prepared to innovate and lead in the field of advertising. The program’s facilities include access to state-of-the-art technology and resources that support creative and analytical work. The university’s strong network of alumni and industry contacts also provides valuable mentorship and employment opportunities for students. Overall, the Advertising program at Iowa State University is committed to fostering leadership, creativity, and ethical professionalism in future advertising practitioners.