Advertising and Public Relations, B.A., B.S.
A bachelor's degree in advertising and public relations can lead to a rewarding career in corporate, nonprofit, government or agency settings doing meaningful work such as copywriting, media relations, corporate communications, digital communications, media planning, research, and more.
Students are admitted directly into this program.Program Overview
Students choose between a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science. A minor is available. The advertising and public relations major stresses an integrated approach. Students may choose an emphasis in advertising or public relations, but they will take courses in both to prepare them for common practice in the field.
Why Study Advertising and Public Relations at Grand Valley?
- The curriculum is geared to the demands of the industry's ever-changing standards and includes courses recommended by national panels of advertising and public relations educators and professionals.
- Faculty members specialize in teaching communication concepts and skills that are relevant and in-demand. They have academic accomplishments and stellar professional resumes representing a variety of backgrounds in the field.
- Coursework trains students to apply communication theories and concepts in a variety of work settings, while demonstrating the ability to think strategically, solve problems, and act ethically and legally.
- Hands-on experience with real clients in classes, internships, GrandPR (a student-run PR firm), and the National Student Advertising Competition, in which our students have placed five times as national finalists.
- Valuable industry connections through networking and via membership in local student chapters of the American Advertising Federation and the Public Relations Student Society of America.
Career Insights
This tool shows an overview of potential career opportunities for this major. Actual salaries, employment opportunities, and job titles may change over time.
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
- Ethics and law
- Media planning
- Public relations writing
- Advertising and public relations technology
- Management
- Research
- Copywriting
- Graphic design
Combined Degree Programs
Many GVSU undergraduate programs can be combined with an existing master’s degree program to save on tuition and get you into the workforce sooner. On average, you can save $8,500 by pursuing a combined degree and take up to four fewer courses than if earning the degrees separately.
Talk with an advisor about how you can build your combined degree from existing programs to further personalize your education and create your own niche area of expertise.
REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCE
Hands-on learning and other fieldwork not only deepen your mastery of your discipline but also give you the edge employers seek. Visit our experience matters page to see the work GVSU students are doing in their co-ops and internships.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