Art Director Masters Degree From a World Renowned Ad School

In 2019, strong work by Florida art directors is generating results as well as news headlines. Amerant, the Coral Gables bank that is emerging as the largest community-based bank in the United States, launched an innovative digital marketing campaign that essentially transformed its logo into a magic portal of financial and lifestyle opportunities for customers. The grassroots campaign “March for Our Lives,” which was designed by students who survived the terrible mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, inspired major advertising agencies such as McCann and Mill+ to produce music videos featuring pop music star Kesha. Furthermore, Florida’s Natural television commercial for orange juice was a hit among young audiences who tuned into shows such as “Teen Mom 2” on MTV.

Clever art direction is what made the aforementioned campaigns successful. Art direction is a key part of advertising; many creative types who dream of a career in this role overestimate the amount of instinct required and they also underestimate the practical skills necessary. Marketing professionals who doubt themselves and believe that artistic vision “can’t be learned” are missing the point. Art direction is certainly something you can study and learn. With a Master of Science degree in Mass Communications from Florida International University (FIU), you can prepare for success in this highly competitive and desirable field. This brief guide will expand on the key skills any art director needs, skills that you can learn at FIU through its partnership with the Miami Ad School.

Art Directors Need to Manage Designers, Photographers, and Graphic Artists

Art directors are expected to manage artists across mediums, which means they are responsible for organizing and communicating with professionals in various fields. While mastery of any artistic or design field is a career unto itself, understanding the craft allows you to effectively fulfill your role as an art director. In advertising, you have to communicate a specific vision to all of these players while staying consistent with the brand you are serving. Learn more about what is expected from art directors these days by contacting the Global Strategic Communications program director today.

Art Directors Need to Know the Language of Business

Art direction involves solving a variety of complex problems. Understanding the issues in the competitive landscape will allow you to develop a breakout vision for the brand. You will have to work with challenges ranging from budgetary restrictions to a client simply rejecting your artistic vision. At FIU-MAS, you will meet faculty members with years of experience working in the field. Their professional track record can prepare you to stay focused on solutions when problems emerge. Knowing how to walk the line between creativity and professionalism can help you soar as an art director.

Aspiring Art Directors Need a Compelling Portfolio of Work

One of the best aspects of getting your Master of Science in Mass Communication along with a creative track in art direction from FIU-MAS is that you will have an opportunity to build an impressive portfolio of work. A portfolio of work is where you can express what you are capable of and how you can add value to a business. FIU-MAS has developed an excellent reputation among advertising agencies that have hired our alumni. This doesn’t happen without a cadre of people delivering quality work. This also happens to provide an ideal environment for networking as you enter the professional world.

Learn More About FIU’s Global Strategic Communications – Creative Track Program

Visit our website to learn more about the Global Strategic Communication Creative Track program. You can get in touch with Grizelle De Los Reyes, director of the FIU-MAS Creative Track Program by filling out our contact form and requesting additional information.

About Global Strategic Communications – Creative Track Master’s Degree Program

The Global Strategic Communications Creative Track is a 39-credit program that culminates in a Master of Science in Mass Communications degree awarded by Florida International University and graduation from world-renowned Miami Ad School’s portfolio program. The interdisciplinary program combines graduate-level academic courses with the creative skills-building curriculum taught by the leading portfolio school in the world.