B.A. in Advertising and Public Relations

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
• PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.

Grand Valley State University (GVSU) offers various scholarships to help international students with their educational expenses. Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership, and other criteria. 

International Merit Scholarship: GVSU offers merit-based scholarships to international students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. The award amounts may vary, but they are typically based on a student's academic achievements. The scholarships are competitive and awarded to high-achieving students.

Study Abroad Scholarships: GVSU encourages international students to participate in study abroad programs. The university provides scholarships to students who wish to study abroad and gain valuable international experience.

Departmental Scholarships: Various academic departments and programs within the university offer scholarships for students pursuing specific majors. These scholarships are often based on academic performance and potential in the chosen field of study.

Cultural and Identity-Based Scholarships: GVSU promotes diversity and inclusivity. As a result, there are scholarships available for students who contribute to the diversity of the university community. These scholarships recognize students from underrepresented backgrounds.

Foundation Scholarships: GVSU Foundation Scholarships are made possible through the generosity of donors. These scholarships cover a wide range of academic disciplines and may be available to both undergraduate and graduate international students.

Community College Transfer Scholarships: International students transferring from U.S. community colleges to GVSU may be eligible for transfer scholarships, which can help with the cost of completing their bachelor's degrees.

Graduates with a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Advertising and Public Relations from Grand Valley State University (GVSU) are well-prepared for a variety of dynamic and rewarding career paths in the communications and media industries. The program’s focus on strategic thinking, creative problem-solving, and practical experience equips students with the skills necessary to excel in various roles. 

Advertising Account Executive: Advertising account executives serve as the primary liaison between clients and advertising agencies. They manage client accounts, develop advertising strategies, coordinate campaigns, and ensure that clients’ objectives are met. This role involves collaborating with creative teams, media planners, and other stakeholders to deliver effective advertising solutions.

Public Relations Specialist: Public relations specialists manage and enhance the public image of organizations or individuals. They create press releases, organize media events, and handle media relations to build and maintain a positive public perception. Specialists also develop communication strategies to address and manage any public relations issues or crises.

Marketing Coordinator: Marketing coordinators assist in the development and execution of marketing campaigns and promotional activities. They work on market research, campaign planning, content creation, and event coordination to support marketing goals and drive brand awareness.

Social Media Manager: Social media managers are responsible for creating and managing content across various social media platforms. They develop social media strategies, engage with audiences, analyze performance metrics, and stay updated on social media trends to enhance brand presence and engagement online.

Media Planner/Buyer: Media planners and buyers focus on selecting and purchasing advertising space across various media channels. They analyze target audiences, negotiate media buys, and develop media plans that maximize the effectiveness of advertising campaigns while staying within budget.

Corporate Communications Manager: Corporate communications managers oversee internal and external communication strategies for organizations. They handle corporate messaging, employee communications, and public relations efforts to support the organization’s goals and maintain a positive image.

Event Coordinator: Event coordinators plan and execute events such as product launches, press conferences, and promotional events. They manage all aspects of event logistics, including venue selection, vendor coordination, and event promotion, to ensure successful and impactful events.

Content Creator/Strategist: Content creators and strategists develop and produce engaging content for various platforms, including websites, blogs, and social media. They craft compelling narratives, manage content calendars, and strategize content distribution to effectively communicate brand messages.

Brand Manager: Brand managers oversee the development and maintenance of a brand’s image and identity. They work on brand positioning, market analysis, and strategic planning to enhance brand recognition and ensure consistency across all marketing and communication channels.

Crisis Communication Specialist: Crisis communication specialists handle communication during challenging situations or emergencies. They develop crisis management plans, craft messaging strategies, and manage media relations to effectively address and mitigate the impact of crises on an organization’s reputation.