About
Have you ever watched a commercial and thought, “I could make that”? The Communication, Advertising (BS) degree at Appalachian State University prepares you for careers in advertising agencies, media, marketing or in-house advertising departments of non-profit or political organizations. You’ll learn skills used in both creative and business aspects of the advertising profession from expert faculty with professional experience. You will be career-ready upon completion of the program because of the practical knowledge you will acquire.
The Department of Communication values practical experience and networking as part of the learning process. Opportunities in class include annual participation in the American Advertising Federation’s student competition, which gives you a chance to create and compete with your own advertising campaign for national brands. The Advertising Club offers opportunities to visit potential career sites such as NASCAR, Lowes Foods and North Carolina advertising firms. Internships are encouraged but not required, and the Department of Communication’s internship coordinator can help you find a host site.
After Graduation
Employment: This degree makes you career ready. It is recommended that students work in the field before pursuing a graduate degree. Employers include:
- Crispin Porter + Bogaski (CP+B)
- Leo Burnett
- TBWA\Chiat\Day
- McGarryBowen
- Mullen Advertising
Graduate School: For some students pursuing a career in the creative side of advertising, it makes sense to attend a creative finishing school, such as Virginia Commonwealth University’s Brandcenter.
People
Courses
Major courses include:
- Foundations of Advertising
- Persuasion
- Internet Communication
- Communication Law
- Communication Research Methods
- International Advertising
- Professional Ethics in Advertising
- Advertising Campaigns
Students also choose courses with a creative emphasis or a business emphasis.
Related Programs
Minors
A minor is required. Popular choices are:
- Marketing
- Graphic Arts and Imaging Technology
- Business
- Photography
- Art
Engagement Outside the Classroom
- Advertising Club - The advertising club is associated with the American Advertising Federation and is advised by three faculty members. The club hosts industry guest speakers and takes field trips to advertising locations across North Carolina.
- The Appalachian - This is the university’s newspaper run by students for students. It features an advertising department where students are paid on commission and learn how to sell advertisement opportunities to local businesses.
- WASU - Named mtvU’s college radio station of the year in 2012, WASU provides music and talk radio for students and the surrounding area. Students can become involved in the advertising side of the station by taking one credit hour class, completing six observation hours and passing the final exam.
- AppTV - The department’s cable television station gives students experience in television production and also provides internship opportunities.
Global Learning
Appalachian is committed to introducing students to different cultures and teaching them how to live and interact in a global society.
The Department of Communication has study abroad opportunities in Poland, Belize and Armenia, and a dual-degree program in Mexico.
Admission Requirements
There are no admission requirements beyond admission to Appalachian State University.
Why Appalachian?
- The Advertising Club acts in conjunction with the American Advertising Association to organize visits to potential employers. It also offers opportunities to work on networking and interview skills.
- It is possible to earn this degree fully online.
- This degree’s Program of Study allows students to tailor their course list for their individual career goals.
Example: a student wanting to focus on the creative aspect of advertising can choose classes in art and design, while a student focused on the industry’s business side can take more business classes. - Faculty members’ industry experience deepens your connection to the industry and teaches the practical skills that complement theory.
- The Department of Communication offers an internship coordinator to help students find internship host sites and receive class credit for their work.
- The department has a strong alumni network that keeps alumni, faculty and current students connected.
- Students can participate in a dual degree program and earn two undergraduate degrees in communication, one from Appalachian and the other from a partner university in Mexico, the Universidad de las Américas Puebla (UDLAP). Watch video >>
Number of Students
Approximately 150
Method of Delivery
On campus or online
Careers
- Advertising Account Executive
- Advertising Copywriter
- Advertising Manager
- Advertising Media Planner
- Advertising Salesperson
- Art Director, Advertising
- Consumer Products Salesperson
- Corporate Designer
- Creative Director
- Electronic Publication Specialist Export Manager
- Fundraising Coordinator
- Graphic Artist
- Illustrator, Advertising
- Illustrator, Editorial
- Print Production Coordinator
- Promotion Coordinator
- Sales Representative
View more career opportunities
Contacts
College of Fine and Applied Arts
Dr. Jean DeHart
Department chair
dehart2jl@appstate.edu
828-262-2402