Expert: Sean Trapani - 10/1/2008

Question
I have read over some posts on this topic but never exactly found my answer.
Sorry if it's a common question for you...
I am in progress of getting a bachelor's degree in integrated marketing
communications (basically, advertising and PR.) I was interested in going to
Graduate School after I get my Master's, but I was wondering if as a
professional you think it's necessary. Is the industry moving toward
demanding graduate degrees for advertising careers, or will I be good to go
education-wise with just a master's? I am looking to one day be in creative
services, maybe as an art director. What are your suggestions? Grad school or
just get out into the field?

Answer
Hi, Mallory

That depends on how much of a portfolio component your school has. If you leave school with a developed portfolio that demonstrates your ability to develop visually-driven conceptual advertising (with IMC as a nice complement to it) then you may be ready to be a jr AD.

If you only have a degree, and little design training, you will probably need further education.



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