A degree in advertising and marketing communications opens up a variety of pathways within the marketing and sales industry. The major typically incorporates general business practices and communication techniques, along with the specific advertising and marketing content. The various coursework and any internships and hands-on work opportunities during your college career helps you decide which direction to go in when choosing your career.
Creative Careers
If you enjoy the creative aspect of marketing and advertising, use your degree to join the creative team that brainstorms ideas and creates the actual ad campaigns. The creativity comes in the form of the written and spoken word, as well as the visual aspect of advertising. The advertising and marketing communication degree often incorporates graphic design to aid in a job in the creative department of an advertising or marketing firm.
Account Manager
Account managers serve as a liaison between the client and the creative department and other personnel at the advertising agency. This position relies heavily on the communication aspect of the degree, as you need to have the skills to listen, interpret and communicate what your client wants. You also need to be able to communicate with the client to let him know what is possible and how the process works. Account management requires a thorough knowledge of the advertising process as well as each business you represent and its needs. This career requires a balance between protecting the advertising agent's profits and ensure the client's satisfaction.
Media
While the creative department plans the advertisement, the media department is in charge of the advertising campaigns. Expanding technology keeps the media department constantly changing and adapting to stay current. The media department researches various media methods to determine the best option for a particular campaign.
Management
An advertising and marketing communications degree opens up doors throughout the industry, including management. Advertising, marketing, promotions and public relations are a few of the potential departments in an organization that you may have a chance to manage with your educational background. Management positions are often given to individuals with real-world experience so this type of position may not be your first job out of school, but management gives you an aspiration for future advancement.
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