Program Overview

Advertising, B.A.J.M.C.

College of Information and Communications

Learn persuasive communications as you prepare for a successful and rewarding career in a top agency or on an in-house team at corporations around the globe.

As an advertising major, you'll learn what it takes to promote and sell products and services. Learn how to create, manage and execute advertising campaigns for all kinds of clients. Our advertising program is home to the most talented, innovative thinkers in the industry, and we consistently turn out top talent.

Program Highlights

• CreateAthon@USC: Join a team of students for a whirlwind 24 hours as you work on a real project that will benefit a local nonprofit.
• Super Bowl Commercials Class: Learn the history of Super Bowl commercials, then judge the year's ads and conduct the Super Ad Poll to determine a winner.
• Capstone Experiences: Finish off your senior year working in an ad agency to develop and create print and digital ads for national clients.
• A Top Faculty: Study with and be mentored by seasoned, award-winning creative advertising professionals who will inspire and motivate you.

What You’ll Study

As an advertising student, you'll tailor your education to match your career goals, choosing from dozens of specialized classes to spark your imagination. You’ll also have opportunities to participate in fun events like the yearly Super Bowl ad competition or the all-night event CreateAthon@USC. And you can now pursue a concentration in sports media.

Building Skills

Gain the professional and personal intelligence it takes to have a successful career.

• Business Writing: Creating clear and effective written communication for business purposes
• Communication: Exchanging information and ideas through speaking, writing or other means of expression
• Data Analysis: Examining and interpreting information to uncover insights and inform decision making
• Entrepreneurship: Identifying opportunities and creating and launching new ventures
• Content Creation: Generating ideas for and producing content to meet strategic goals and reach targeted audiences
• Planning and Strategy: Developing and implementing a comprehensive and effective approach to achieve specific goals

Using your degree

Make your college experience the foundation for a successful future.

Potential Careers

• Account Manager
• Market Researcher
• Media Planner
• Copywriter
• SEO Specialist
• Social Media Marketer/Strategist

Workplace Settings

• Advertising
• Marketing
• Social Media
• Education

Advanced Degrees

Advance your career or options with post-graduate education.

• Master's
  • Data and Communication, M.S.: College of Information and Communications
  • Journalism and Mass Communications, M.A.: College of Information and Communications

The advertising program is top tier. The professors have real-world experience in the industry that they bring into the classroom to help you prepare for your future. I have created content for my portfolio, formed great connections and learned so much. I can’t imagine being anywhere else!

Alyssa Ross