Expert: Sean Trapani - 3/19/2008

Question
I am looking into getting a MFA in Advertising & Design but I want to know if it's worth the money. I would like to advance my graphic design career into more creative role such as art or creative direction or an advertising manager position but my long term goal is to teach at the university level. Any advice from seasoned advertising professionals??

Answer
Well...if you want to teach, the traditional way would be to get your MFA. You will probably have an easier time getting the job. You CAN teach with a Bachelor's degree (I do) but...you'll need to justify the degree with many years in the business and plenty of industry recognition (via the press or awards).

I'm puzzled a little by your description of art director as a more "creative" role than graphic designer. Perhaps you're stuck in a job as a Quark Jockey, as we used to call them. This production-heavy graphic design is rather dry, so I understand your desire to spread your wings. However, there are plenty of highly creative opportunities as a graphic designer, too; but, perhaps not at your current employer.

Becoming an (advertising) art director is very different that simply getting to do "more creative" design projects. It's an entirely different way of thinking - going from a design to a conceptual communication methodology.

All this being said, an MFA is worth it if you want to teach. But if you're passionate about getting into the agency side of creativity quickly, I'd recommend a portfolio school instead - their sole focus is to change your thinking and get your book ready for your next, or in your case first, art director or copywriter job.