Advertising and Public Relations in Detroit

City of Detroit

Are you curious about what it's like to work in the Motor City? Learn from advertising, public relations, and marketing pros and fellow Spartans working in Detroit at a variety of agencies (both large and small) and other industry employers. This experience will provide valuable insight into the day-to-day operations of professions related to advertising and PR majors and help students understand the skills needed to succeed in a career for students with a degree in advertising or public relations.

Fall 2026 Industry Immersion

Trip application and dates below

Applications are now open for the Fall 2026 Industry Immersion in Detroit, taking place January 11–14. Gain firsthand insight into what it’s like to work in a dynamic and evolving industry hub.

Participants are required to attend a pre-visit, on-campus meeting on November 18 or 19 from 6–7 p.m. (location TBD).

Course options:

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

Apply Now

What is the experience?

Field experience trip at a glance

The Detroit Field Experience is an immersive learning opportunity exposing advertising and public relations students to the industry in action, career opportunities, and alumni connections in the city! Partnering with the ComArtSci Alumni community, students get an opportunity to visit public relations agencies and other industry employers in the area. This experience empowers students to make better decisions about where they want to live and work in the future.  

Previous agency and company visits included: 

  • Ilitch Holdings
  • FINN Partners
  • Jack Morton
  • Rocket Companies
  • Ally Financial
  • United Wholesale Mortgage
  • General Motors
  • Carat
  • The JRT Agency 

ADV 402 Overview

Course objectives

This course provides students with an overview of professional public relations practice and opportunities. Site visits to various agencies will give students an opportunity to meet with practitioners and learn about people and issues in public relations. Objectives will be met through a combination of specialized readings and site visits. By the end of the course you should be able to better: 

  • Describe the key tools and structures used by public relations professionals to succeed in a competitive environment.
  • Evaluate the degree to which you are prepared to succeed in strategic communication professions by assessing your own competencies in comparison to the needs and desires of public relations leaders.

What to expect? Professors and instructors will plan an agenda for your days. Students are responsible for all travel, accommodation, food, and miscellaneous expenses.

ADV 492 Overview

Course objectives

This course provides students with an overview of professional strategic communication practice and opportunities in Detroit. Site visits to public relations agencies, advertising firms, 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.

What to expect? Professors and instructors will plan an agenda for your days. Students are responsible for all travel, accommodation, food, and miscellaneous expenses.