SDSU's advertising program reflects the expanding career options in advertising, public relations and strategic communications. Starting Fall 2011, the advertising degree is a stand alone major. Our program provides a set of core classes and allows students the opportunity to specialize in one of three areas: creative strategy, interactive media, or public relations.
Required job skills are diverse, ranging from business and marketing skills for account management; research skills for account planning; writing and design skills for creative development; and media evaluation skills for planning, buying and selling traditional and new media. Housed in the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, the major incorporates desired experience in broadcast, digital and print communication.
Students work on real-world projects and in group environments similar to industry. Internships and networking are key components of the program.
Classes— The primary courses in our major are:
- Digital Media
- Digital Delivery
- Advertising Principles
- Advertising Media Strategies
- Copy and Layout
- Integrated Marketing Communications Campaigns
- Media Law emphasizing Advertising & Public Relations
Student interest dictates the electives courses taken to fulfill the degree requirements. Popular courses include:
- Public Relations Strategies
- Sales, Promotion and Marketing
- Portfolio Production and Design
- International and Ethnic Advertising
- Media Research and Planning
- Photography
- Publication Design
Capstone Experience— Students participate in the American Advertising Federation’s National Student Advertising Competition. Our program is recognized as one of the strongest marketing communications and advertising programs in the region, with our students winning awards in regional and national competitions.
Industry Networking— The faculty works closely with industry leaders to provide networking opportunities for students on a state and regional level. Students attend monthly industry events, including South Dakota Advertising Federation meetings. They also participate in local and national career days. Professionals visit campus regularly to guest lecture.
Job Opportunities— Students gain experience that prepares them to work in any aspect of advertising and marketing communications. Work environments include advertising, public relations and marketing communication firms; advertising and promotion departments of media companies; and marketing, public relations, social media, and corporate communication departments of businesses and non-profit organizations. Online marketing companies are looking for graduates with skills in social media and online marketing strategy, development and analysis.
