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Promotions

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Looking for a class that combines creativity with research, strategy, and analytics? How would you like to build an integrated marketing campaign for a real client? Promotions (a.k.a. "Promo"), part of the Strategic Brand Consulting & Communications Track, is a yearlong, nine-credit-hour program that brings the art and science of marketing, branding and advertising to the classroom. Using the American Advertising Federation (AAF) National Student Advertising Competition (NSAC) as the catalyst for hands-on learning, Promotions covers advanced topics in the areas of market research, brand strategy, communication and media strategy, and integrated marketing campaigns.

Fall Semester

Small teams participate in experiential learning.

Winter Break

Agency visits (NY, DC, Richmond)

Spring Semester

Class forms a “mock agency” to develop a campaign that tackles the client brief.

April

NSAC District Competition
(Raleigh, NC)

May

NSAC Semifinals
(virtual)

June

NSAC Nationals
(Final eight schools compete for the national title in rotating locations.)

Program and Learning Highlights

  • Work in a “mock agency” with a real client brief and company executives.

  • Conduct qualitative and quantitative research that leads to consumer insights.

  • Hone your skills in teamwork, “pitching” ideas, writing, presenting, and problem-solving.

  • Learn the fundamentals of branding, communication strategy, and media planning.

  • Develop award-winning integrated campaigns that meet client objectives. 

  • Become proficient in Adobe Creative Suite (e.g., PhotoShop, InDesign).

  • Learn the fundamentals of video production and editing.

  • Become proficient using real marketing, advertising, and media databases (e.g., Simmons, Nielsen, comScore, AdMall, Brandwatch, SRDS).

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"Promotions was one of my best experiences at UVA. It made me more than prepared to work full time, and it also helped me grow both personally and professionally."

Sydney Peoples (McIntire ’20)

Senior Analyst, Xandr

Where Are Our Alumni Now?

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Want to Get Involved?

All UVA students are eligible to apply in the spring of their third year. Learn more about how Promotions can be integrated into your fourth-year schedule.

Explore Our Socials

To see what the current Promotions class is currently doing, check out our Instagram and Facebook below. Alumni, connect with classmates, students, and other Promotions colleagues in our LinkedIn portal.

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