Advertising
The Bachelor of Science in Advertising offers a dynamic academic program designed to equip students with the skills needed to create, manage and evaluate advertising campaigns across diverse media platforms. The curriculum integrates marketing theory, consumer behavior, creative strategy and digital media applications, giving learners the ability to develop effective and ethical advertising solutions. Students build competencies in strategic thinking, persuasive communication and campaign analysis while engaging with hands-on projects and real-world case studies. This approach ensures that graduates gain both creative expertise and analytical skills essential for success in the rapidly evolving advertising industry.
Over four years, students explore a wide range of advertising practices, from traditional print and broadcast media to digital marketing and social media strategies. The program emphasizes research-driven planning, audience insight, brand management and multimedia storytelling, preparing learners to craft messages that resonate with diverse target audiences. Coursework encourages collaboration, problem solving and project management, helping students develop a professional mindset and practical experience. By the final year, graduates demonstrate strategic thinking and creative competence, positioning them to excel in advertising, marketing, media and communications careers or pursue graduate studies in related fields.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Advertising
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Science
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, United States
- Field of Study: Advertising
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 - Foundations in Advertising
• Introduction to Advertising Principles
• Fundamentals of Marketing
• Media and Communication Studies
• Academic Writing and Research Skills
Year 2 - Creative and Strategic Advertising
• Consumer Behavior and Market Research
• Advertising Design and Copywriting
• Digital Media and Social Media Strategies
• Ethics and Law in Advertising
Year 3 - Advanced Advertising and Campaigns
• Integrated Marketing Communication
• Brand Management
• Advertising Analytics and Metrics
• Elective Modules in Creative or Strategic Focus Areas
Year 4 - Professional Practice and Capstone
• Advertising Campaign Management
• Advanced Media Planning and Buying
• Independent Research or Capstone Project
• Seminar in Advertising Practice
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for a broad spectrum of professional roles in the advertising, marketing and communications sectors. Career opportunities include positions in advertising agencies, digital marketing firms, brand management teams and media companies, where professionals create campaigns, manage client relations and evaluate performance metrics. The program also equips students for roles in public relations, content strategy, social media management and market research. With its emphasis on strategic thinking, creativity and analytical skills, graduates can adapt to emerging industry trends and pursue further education or certification programs in marketing, communications and media management.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students seeking a combination of creative and analytical skills in the field of advertising. Learners develop strategic insight, creative problem solving, audience analysis and campaign management abilities, equipping them to design effective advertising solutions across platforms. The four year curriculum balances theoretical learning with practical applications, including hands-on projects, digital media practice and research, allowing students to build both a professional portfolio and industry-ready skills. By integrating strategy, creativity and ethical decision-making, the program ensures that graduates are well-prepared to excel in dynamic advertising environments and contribute meaningfully to brand development and marketing innovation.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the graduate admissions office at:
Phone: 217-333-0035
Email: grad@illinois.edu
Address: The Graduate College, 507 East Green Street, Suite 101, MC-434, Champaign, IL 61820, United States
