Online Advertising Courses and Classes Overview

Online advertising courses are essential components of larger media programs, such as communication and marketing degree programs. The diversity of existing advertising possibilities allows interested students a variety of academic avenues to pursue. From traditional forms of promotion, such as print, radio and television, to recent developments in Internet communications, there is no shortage of educational possibilities in this field.

Overview of Online Advertising Courses

Although there are several online undergraduate programs that offer advertising coursework, few are as extensive and flexible as those found in online graduate programs. Most online courses of this nature are directed at full-time professionals seeking career opportunities and advancement. The variety of degrees offering significant advertising coursework include Associate of Arts in Internet Marketing, Bachelor of Science in Business or Management with a sales or marketing specialization, Master of Science in Marketing Management and Master of Arts in Communications. Graduates of these programs can find employment with marketing firms, public relations agencies and press offices, as well as within the communication and advertising departments of major corporations and non-profit groups. Online employment opportunities involve Internet promotions, marketing and analysis, and keyword and search engine optimization.

Requirements for Online Courses

To participate in online advertising classes, students need access to a computer with reliable Internet service. High-speed service is preferred for courses that offer extensive video content. All assignments, papers, projects and exams are submitted through the school's preferred software platform, which is typically free to online participants. Basic computer skills are required to log in to the school's website, participate in threaded discussions with instructors and fellow students, and watch, read or listen to available lectures.

List of Online Advertising Courses

Fundamentals of Advertising Course

Providing a general marketing overview, this course examines the use of suitable integrated advertising practices in local, regional, national and international markets. Students learn the inner workings of advertising agencies and their promotions. Topics covered include copyright issues, the influence of digital technology, and the ethics of running a media campaign that leverages consumer prejudice and behaviors to sell goods and services.

Branding and Advertising Course

This course explores the mechanics of effective branding and advertising operations. Students learn to create and develop a branded product and expand consumer awareness through advertising campaigns. The necessary practices of organizing a creative department, establishing realistic time-lines and budgets, and determining the appropriate media venue for launching an advertising campaign are central to this class.

Corporate and Non-Profit Advertising Course

Students in this class learn that sustaining an organization's bottom line requires a continuous stream of marketing campaigns to keep the company in the public eye. The course examines how corporations and non-profits are similar, requiring effective media strategies to persuade potential consumers or donors to support the client's business or agenda. Students look into the creative processes and branding skills necessary to produce a media campaign strong enough to leave an indelible impression upon the public conscience.

Internet Advertising Course

The Internet has changed how communication professionals approach advertising in the digital age. Students in this course explore effective avenues to connect potential customers with the goods or services they want by advertising through credible websites, blogs, social networks and journalistic sites. New research and marketing techniques, such as data mining and search engine optimization, are also investigated in this course.

The Art of Persuasion Course

Students in this course explore the empirical evidence behind the art of persuasion. The class examines how a presenter's apparent knowledge, honesty or likeability affects the psychology of the target audience and how the sequencing of ideas using humor and fear can provide maximum impact.