LAKERS TOGETHER: Grand Valley is preparing for successful learning experiences when classes resume on Aug. 31. Learn more about the plan for fall in this handbook.
Advertising and Public Relations, B.A., B.S.
A bachelor's degree in advertising and public relations can lead to rewarding careers in corporate or agency settings doing meaningful work such as copywriting, public relations writing, media planning, research, and more.
Source: EMSI 2020
Available as a minor.
Program Overview
Students choose between a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or a Bachelor of Science (B.S.). A minor is available. The advertising and public relations major stresses an integrated approach. Students may choose to emphasize advertising or public relations, but they take courses in both to prepare them for common practice in the field.
Why Study Advertising and Public Relations at Grand Valley?
- Faculty members have a combination of academic accomplishment and professional experience and represent a variety of backgrounds in the field. Full-time faculty are complemented by accomplished professionals from the area who teach as adjunct instructors.
- Students have opportunities to be involved with the Student Ad Club and the Grand Valley chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA). Both are affiliated with local and national professional groups.
- Students get hands-on experience by having real clients in numerous classes, internships, special events, and through GrandPR (a student-run PR firm).
- The curriculum includes courses that match what is recommended by national panels of advertising and public relations educators and professionals.
Location & Format
Undergraduate students in this major study at Grand Valley's Allendale Campus.
Format:- Face To Face
Coursework
Students study a variety of topics within the major, including:
- Campaigns
- Copywriting
- Public relations writing
- Ethics and law
- Management
- Media planning
- Research
- Advertising and public relations technology
Career Options
Graduates from the integrated advertising and public relations major have a wide variety of opportunities for employment in different fields. They have had success working locally and nationally within:
- Advertising and public relations agencies
- Corporations
- Educational institutions
- Government agencies
- Hospitals
- Nonprofit organizations
- Sports teams
- Travel industry
Combined Degree Programs
This undergraduate degree can be combined with a master's degree to save you time and money, and get you into the workforce sooner. On average, students save $8,500 in our combined degree programs and take up to four fewer classes than if earning the degrees separately.
You can even build your own combined degree from programs in different disciplines to further personalize your education and meet specific career goals.
Skills Employers Want
The B.A. or B.S. in Advertising and Public Relations at GVSU will develop the skills you need to land the job you want. Whether the skills are advanced or general, you will build a resume of qualifications that are sure to attract employers. The following skills correlate with those pulled from actual job postings.
- Public Relations
- Strategic Planning
- Digital Marketing
- Customer Relations Management
- Journalism
- Marketing Communications
- Marketing Strategies
- Press Releases
Source: EMSI, 2020
Admission Requirements
Visit the Admissions website for undergraduate requirements.
Helpful Links
For More Information
School of Communications
gvsu.edu/soc
290 Lake Superior
Hall, (616) 331-3668