Simpson adds marketing communication major

Coming this fall, students at Simpson College will have a new major at their disposal—marketing communication.

The college recently finalized plans for the new major, which will be available beginning Fall 2019. The major is a joint offering from the Department of Multimedia Communication and the Department of Business Administration & Economics. It merges the worlds of business and communication to produce professionals who work at the intersection of media, business, public relations, advertising and promotions.

The major will be offered through both the traditional and Continuing & Graduate programs. Continuing & Graduate students can attain the degree entirely online.

“The marketing communication program blends the best in business and communication education with the contemporary skills in social media, digital production and analytics that students need to succeed,” said Brian Steffen, chair of the multimedia communications department. 

The new major promises to produce graduates for an in-demand job market. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects jobs within the field to grow at a 10 percent annual rate through 2026, faster than the average for all occupations.

The marketing communication program blends the best in business and communication education with the contemporary skills in social media, digital production and analytics that students need to succeed.

Students majoring in marketing communication will be equipped to help organizations reach their strategic and tactical goals through print, electronic and social media materials. This includes communication both inside and outside of the organization.

“The marketing communication landscape is changing rapidly and dramatically,” Professor of Management Mark Green said. “In the United States, advertising spending on the Internet has surpassed advertising spending on TV—a watershed moment in media and marketing. The new marketing communication major is designed to equip Simpson graduates with the cutting-edge tools they will need to pursue marketing-related careers in a variety of industries and organizations.”

Students will benefit from strong practical applications in the program. Simpson’s proximity to Des Moines provides students with numerous options for internships.

“Students in Marketing Communication will have the chance to network and intern with top professionals in the Des Moines area and beyond,” Steffen said. “We’re really excited for the opportunities this will give our students.”

Possible career opportunities for students majoring in marketing communication include:

• Marketing Specialist 
• Communication Specialist 
• Public Relations Specialist 
• Brand Manager
• Product Marketing Manager
• Market Research Analyst
• Content Marketing Specialist
• Digital Marketing Specialist
• Social Media Marketing
• Search Engine Optimization Specialist
• Marketing Automation Specialist
• Campaign Manager
• Analytics Director
• Consumer/Audience Engagement Specialist

Students seeking to further their education at the graduate level can choose from a number of programs, including:

• Mass Communication
• Strategic Communication
• Business
• Leadership
• Marketing
• Law School
• Public Administration
• Communication Leadership

Join a program that merges the worlds of business and communication to make yourself a valuable asset in the ever-changing digital landscape. Learn More