Program Overview

Introduction to the VCU Brandcenter

The VCU Brandcenter is a renowned institution dedicated to providing high-quality education in the fields of advertising, branding, and marketing communications.

Master's Program

The Master's Program at the VCU Brandcenter is an in-person program that offers five areas of study:

• Art Direction
• Copywriting
• Creative Brand Management
• Experience Design
• Strategy

Extension Programming

The VCU Brandcenter also offers Extension Programming, which includes:

• Executive Education

Study Abroad: Brandcenter Cannes Lions Festival

The Brandcenter Cannes Lions Festival Study Abroad Program is a unique opportunity for undergraduate and graduate students to attend the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. This program is powered by the VCU Global Education Office and offers students the chance to learn from industry thought leaders, digital innovators, and marketers.

Program Details

• Attend the Cannes Lions Festival
• Program dates: June 1 - July 15, 2026
• Undergraduate students earn 3 credits
• Graduate students earn 1 credit
• Open to VCU and non-VCU students

Program Structure

The program includes:

• Pre-Festival Work: June 1, 2026 (online and asynchronous)
• Travel and Day Trips to Antibes, Cannes, and Nice: June 17 - 21, 2026
• Cannes Lions Festival: June 22 - 26, 2026
• Post-Festival Work and Final Presentations: June 29 - July 15, 2026

Eligibility

The program is open to VCU and non-VCU university undergraduate and graduate students in the United States, who study or are otherwise interested in advertising, public relations, digital, and other marketing communications. A minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred, but not required.

VCU Education Abroad Program Requirements

All participants must be at least 18 years of age or older by the start of the program and degree-seeking students. Exceptions to these and other eligibility requirements require approval from both the faculty program leader and the director of Global Learning.

Program Director

The program is directed by Jess Collins, a full-time strategy professor at the Brandcenter. Jess Collins is an alumna of the Brandcenter and has previously taught at the VCU Robertson School of Media and Culture. She is fluent in Spanish and proficient in French, and has traveled extensively throughout Europe.

The Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity

The Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity is the largest festival for creative communications, advertising, and related fields. The festival is held annually in Cannes, France, and brings together the creative community to learn, network, and celebrate the industry's best work.