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How important is grad school for a advertising degree?

Am currently in college as an advertising major and considering the option of grad school. Is it important or worth it to go and do it or just go out in the world and begin a job?
#gradschool #advertising #marketing-and-advertising #graduate-programs

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JoAnne’s Answer

My advice is to work with someone who is considered to be very creative and has much experience in advertising as opposed to opening your precious time in school. If you're interested in advertising, your school is working directly with or for an advertising pro. That's the way you'll learn what makes an ad great as opposed to good and the business of advertising at the same time. Both are critical to attaining a high level of success in the field--and you can! Take the direct route working with a pro whose work you admire! Pay close attention, pick this person, and contact them. Don't wait for a job opening. Create your own job opening with your desire to learn and to be the best you can be as an ad pro yourself!
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Julia’s Answer

I was always told that grad school was only worth it if you found a job you wanted where it was required. I think it's best to get real world experience and then you will know if it's really worth it to you and what you may want to focus on. I have been very happy in my career without grad school so far.
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Charlie’s Answer

For advertising, grad school is a waste of time. Unless business interests you, maybe an MBA? Most people have BS or BA and do fine. I doubt even with a BA/BS you're going to learn skills and tactics that are commonly today in marketing/advertising. Get going to your degree and seek out as many internships in agencies that you can. If the creative side interests you, seek out internships at post houses and tv stations. I only suggest tv stations because at smaller stations, union regs may not be as stringent and you may get more hands on experience.
Either way, a good internship can lead to jobs and give you far more practical experience. Don't dismiss them, and treat them like real jobs. They have potential for opportunity.
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Stefania’s Answer

Hello! I concur with everyone else in regards to starting work and not going for your Master's if you intend to pursue advertising. I will share this real-world experience with you. I myself was in grad school and fortunately, around the same time secured a position with a stellar ad agency in New York. The master's, while a nice to have and probably an impressive resume point, was definitely not needed in advertising or other marketing positions I've held since then. Only now, YEARS later as I'm transitioning from that marketing world to a career development path (which is more aligned with mental health to a degree), am I finding it more and more valuable and sought out.

That said, it's a very competitive world out there now so while you don't necessarily need to go for a Master's, you may want to find other ways that make you stand out of the crowd (internships, volunteer work in the field, job shadowing, staying on top of industry trends, etc) -- anything that will make you stand out once you come out with your degree.

Best of luck to you! Advertising is a fantastic and fun industry to pursue!
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Rachael’s Answer

Hi Stacie,

Much like everyone else's comments, I agree that you should focus on getting professional experience first and foremost in the field. Now later in your career, after having some experience under your belt, then you should consider a masters-degree if you feel that you need it. While it's not necessary, you may discover a particular field or industry in advertising that you want to further learn about and set you apart from the rest. I think something that is helpful to think about is, when getting a Masters degree, you're choosing to be a master at something, so you should reallllly know what that is before you jump in! Hope that helps and good luck!
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Sophia’s Answer

It seems to me that college degrees are common place today much like a high school degree was years ago. Masters degree can help define you. I would recommend working in advertising for a bit first and maybe getting a masters at night.
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Sara’s Answer

In my personal experience, from an entry level point in your advertising career, going to grad school will only delay your career as everyone typically starts at the same level. if you're considering grad school, i would recommend beginning your career in advertising and considering going back for your MBA later in your career as it will mostly benefit you when you get into director roles.
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