Copywriters are responsible for producing content for promotional materials, such as advertisements, brochures and newsletters; creativity, attention to detail and good writing skills are essential. Most people, however, seek a bachelor's degree in advertising or marketing with a concentration in copywriting.
Schools with Copywriting Courses
Programs that encompass training in copywriting are offered at these institutions.
| College/University | Location | Institution Type | Degrees Offered | Undergraduate Tuition and Fees* (2018-2019) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temple University | Philadelphia, PA | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's, Master's, Doctoral, Graduate Certificate | $16,970 (In-state) $29,066 (Out-of-state) |
| University of Alabama | Tuscaloosa, AL | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's, Master's, Doctoral | $10,780 (In-state) $29,230 (Out-of-state) |
| University of Miami | Coral Gables, FL | 4-year, Private, not-for-profit | Bachelor's, Master's, Doctoral | $50,226 |
| University of Texas at Austin | Austin, TX | 4-year, Public | Certificate, Bachelor's, Master's, Doctoral | $10,610 (In-state) $37,580 (Out-of-state) |
| Loyola University Chicago | Chicago, IL | 4-year, Private, not-for-profit | Bachelor's, Master's, Doctoral | $44,048 |
| University of Minnesota | Minneapolis, MN | 4-year, Public | Certificate, Bachelor's, Master's, Doctoral, Graduate Certificate | $14,760 (In-state) $30,438 (Out-of-state) |
| Boston University | Boston, MA | 4-year, Private, not-for-profit | Certificate, Bachelor's, Master's, Doctoral | $53,948 |
| University of Oklahoma | Norman, OK | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's, Master's, Doctoral | $11,538 (In-state) $26,919 (Out-of-state) |
| University of Houston | Houston, TX | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's, Master's, Doctoral | $8,913 (In-state) $21,273 (Out-of-state) |
| Texas Tech University | Lubbock, TX | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's, Master's, Doctoral | $9,080 (In-state) $19,040 (Out-of-state) |
Source: *National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
School Selection Criteria
In deciding how to go about learning the art of copywriting, there are a few factors to keep in mind.
- Copywriting-related degree programs may be found in both community colleges and universities, so students may consider how much time and money they want to spend earning their degree.
- Labs vary between schools; the best ones operate as student-run advertising or marketing firms.
- Schools that offer internships through a partnership with a local media outlet, publication or organization may give graduates a leg up on the competition when it comes to finding a job.
- In some cases, an associate degree in liberal arts or English may be a sufficient start, so students should verify program prerequisites.
Associate of Arts Degree Programs
Many of these two-year programs are designed to transfer to four-year colleges and universities. Associate degree programs in English, creative writing and mass communications are options.
Bachelor's Degree Programs
Since copywriting degree programs are all but nonexistent, students should seek a related bachelor's degree with a specialization in copywriting. Suitable programs include those options previously stated.
Master of Arts in Advertising
A Master of Arts in Advertising or a Master of Arts in Advertising with a copywriting concentration provides students with advanced courses in copywriting techniques for advertising. Students build a portfolio to provide work samples to future employers.
Choosing a copywriting school can be complicated, because there are a number of degree options that may encompass these skills as part of the curriculum. Students should review the course options carefully and be certain that they select a program the fits their long-term career goals.
