Advertising

The Advertising program at Michigan State University offers students a comprehensive education that combines creative skills, strategic thinking, and practical experience to prepare them for successful careers in the dynamic field of advertising. This program is designed to equip students with a deep understanding of advertising concepts, media planning, consumer behavior, branding, digital marketing, and the ethical considerations involved in advertising practices. Students will engage in hands-on projects, internships, and collaboration with industry partners, enabling them to develop a portfolio that showcases their talents and readiness for the professional world. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, innovative problem-solving, and effective communication, empowering students to craft compelling advertising campaigns across various media platforms, including print, digital, social media, and broadcast. Faculty members bring extensive industry experience, providing insights into current trends and technologies that shape the advertising landscape. Through coursework, workshops, and real-world projects, students gain valuable skills in market research, creative development, copywriting, graphic design, and data analysis. The program also encourages students to explore ethical issues related to advertising practices and to understand the cultural and societal impact of advertising messages. Michigan State University’s strategic location offers access to a vibrant advertising industry, fostering networking opportunities, internships, and partnerships with leading firms. Graduates from this program are well-prepared to pursue careers in advertising agencies, corporate marketing departments, media companies, and digital content creation, among others. Overall, the Advertising program at Michigan State University aims to develop versatile, innovative, and socially responsible advertising professionals who are ready to meet the evolving needs of the global marketplace.

1. The University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of the catalog; 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Arts degree in Advertising.
   
   The University's Tier II writing requirement for the Advertising major is met by completing Advertising 486.  That course is referenced in item 3. a. below.
2. The requirements of the College of Communication Arts and Sciences for the Bachelor of Arts degree.
3. The following requirements for the major.

• Complete MSU’s application for admission online, including the required personal statement.
• Pay the $75 nonrefundable application fee (drawn on U.S. funds) using Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express or an electronic check.
• Request that all secondary schools, colleges or universities attended and examination boards send original or attested copies of all transcripts, diplomas, mark sheets and certificates directly to Michigan State University in an official, sealed envelope. In addition, where the original documents are not issued in English, an official English translation of each document must be provided.
• Have the testing agency (TOEFL, IELTS, SAT, MSUELT or MELAB accepted) provide proof of English proficiency directly to MSU if your first language is not English. MSU's TOEFL code is 1465. International students are encouraged, though not required, to submit SAT or ACT scores. The SAT code is 1465; the ACT code is 2032.
• Do not send letters of recommendation, photographs, portfolios or additional personal essays. Doing so will delay processing of your application.
• In order to obtain the documents needed to file for a student visa (I-20 or DS-2019), admitted students must show adequate proof of financial support. Upon acceptance, admitted students will be required to upload a signed affidavit of support and bank statement with the name of the account holder in English through your admissions account. Please do not send financial documents in paper form at the time of application.

Scholarships

• Global Spartan Scholarship
• Professorial Assistantship

The Bachelor of Arts in Advertising at Michigan State University offers students a comprehensive education in the dynamic field of advertising and marketing communication. The program is designed to prepare students for successful careers in advertising agencies, corporate marketing departments, media companies, and other related industries. It combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, emphasizing creative development, strategic planning, media buying, digital advertising, consumer behavior, branding, and campaign management. Students have the opportunity to engage in hands-on learning through internships, industry projects, and collaborative campaigns that simulate real-world advertising challenges. The curriculum is crafted to foster critical thinking, innovative problem-solving, and effective communication, essential traits for aspiring advertising professionals. Faculty members bring substantial industry experience and academic expertise, guiding students through the evolving landscape of digital media, social media marketing, data analytics, and consumer insights. The program also offers specialized courses in graphic design, copywriting, market research, and multimedia production. Michigan State University’s strong connections with the advertising community and a dedicated career services center help students build professional networks and secure employment after graduation. The program promotes a global perspective, encouraging students to understand diverse markets and cultural nuances influencing advertising strategies worldwide. Additionally, student organizations and extracurricular activities provide opportunities for leadership development and portfolio building. Overall, the advertising program at MSU aims to cultivate innovative, ethical, and adaptable marketing professionals who are well-prepared to meet the demands of the rapidly changing advertising industry.