Advertising and Public Relations in Los Angeles

Applications are now open for the Spring 2027 Industry Immersion in Los Angeles tanking place May 10-14, 2027. Get a firsthand look at what it’s like to work in a major hub for media, entertainment and strategic communication while connecting with industry professionals and exploring potential career paths.

Participants are required to attend a pre-trip, on-campus meeting on March 24, from 6-7p.m. in CAS 191.

Course options:

• Public relations-focused students: PR 402-701 (1 credit)
• Advertising-focused students: ADV 492-701 (1 credit)

Application Deadline: November 6, 2026

Apply Now

Questions? Email Randi Martinez mart1705@msu.edu or Julie Beaty beatyjul@msu.edu 

This course provides students with an overview of public relations and advertising practice and opportunities in Los Angeles. The typical agenda includes visits to public relations firms, advertising and media agencies, companies and other organizations throughout the Los Angeles area. Industry experts, including Spartan alumni, will share stories from their careers, provide insight into the industry and answer questions.

Objectives will be met through a combination of pre-visit preparation, the trip to Los Angeles and post-visit guided reflection.

By the end of the course students should be able to better:

• Describe the key tools and structures strategic communication professionals use to succeed in a competitive environment.
• Evaluate the degree of preparation needed to succeed in strategic communication professions by assessing personal competencies in comparison to the needs and expectations of advertising and public relations leaders.

This course provides students with an overview of professional strategic communication practice and opportunities in Los Angeles. Site visits to public relations agencies, advertising firms, media and entertainment companies, and other strategic communication organizations will give students an opportunity to meet with professionals and learn about the people, issues and trends shaping the industry.

Objectives will be met through a combination of preparatory assignments, site visits and reflective activities.

By the end of the course, students should be better able to:

• Describe the key tools, strategies and structures used by strategic communication professionals to succeed in a competitive environment.
• Evaluate their preparedness for careers in public relations, advertising and related fields by assessing their own competencies in comparison to the needs and expectations of industry leaders.

Professors and instructors will plan an agenda for students’ days. Students are responsible for all travel, accommodation, food and miscellaneous expenses.

For questions, email Randi Martinez mart1705@msu.edu or Julie Beaty beatyjul@msu.edu