What kind of degree do I need to be hired by an ad agency?

Question

And how long should it take me to get it? Would an online course in advertising be enough or would I have to get more of a degree in this kind of field? Is there still a need for this line of work?

Any answers to any of these questions would be greately appreciated!

Also any tips on how to persue this kind of job would be nice!!

Thanks so much in advance!

Answer 1

That depends what you want to do with the ad agency.  A degree in marketing would help.  You could also get some training in graphic arts, or management.  Experience in these fields will help, too.  Volunteer for the school's student newspaper doing whatever your major covers.

Answer 2

Advertising agencies need all types of people with many degrees- not just in advertising and marketing.

A company I've worked for in the past hired people from all backgrounds including: sports management, business, economics, communications, web development, creative design and graphic design.

More and more, advertising agencies are combining their traditional services (print, tv, ad) with the internet (ad banners, click ads, email marketing, and websites). This provides a great opportunity for you; there are tons of agencies that need individuals to help support both areas.

I recommend enrolling in a degree that you are truly interested in. If you are simply enrolling for the sake of gaining employment with an ad agency, you may be miserable at work for the next decade or so.

Additionally, have you researched what it is like working for an agency? Many require above-average weekly hours without OT, and deadlines make the office a zoo. However, that isn't to say that there are no 9-5 agencies out there.

The link below offers a variety of schools; you should compare costs and programs available and find something you enjoy, and that hopefully will not depreciate in the forseable future (ie web design).

Good luck!