BA in Advertising and Public Relations

The Bachelor of Arts in Advertising and Public Relations is designed to prepare students for professional and academic opportunities in strategic communication. Core courses provide foundations in advertising and marketing, public relations, journalism, culture and society, visual aesthetics, writing, design, production, and strategic problem-solving. Electives are chosen based on individual student interests and may include concentrations or interdisciplinary offerings. 

A flexible curriculum provides an array of experiences and learning opportunities tailored to students' interests. For example, students interested in marketing often opt for electives in the College of Business, while those interested in art directing or media design might focus on courses in the art and communication departments. Future copywriters and media writers may concentrate in writing, while students interested in political public relations might focus on courses in government and world affairs.

The major also prepares students for graduate studies by providing theory foundations in mass communications, ethics, cultural studies, journalism, visual aesthetics, and digital media. Beyond these core areas, students can opt for electives that extend their theory knowledge in communication and related fields.

UT students have found internships in top advertising agencies, marketing and public relations departments. With the fifth largest broadcast market in the country, Tampa Bay also offers opportunities in radio and television, studio production, and journalism. Sports-minded students have interned with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays and Lightning, while community-centered students have worked in political campaigns and nonprofit organizations.

Career Opportunities  

• marketing specialist 
• public relations specialist 
• creative director art director 
• copywriter 
• journalist 
• feature writer 
• magazine editor 
• graphic designer 
• Web designer 
• publicist 
• activist 
• video editor 
• studio TV director/producer