Advertising copywriter

You could do a foundation degree or degree in a subject like:

• English
• creative writing
• journalism
• communication studies
• advertising

Postgraduate courses in advertising are also widely available.

You might be able to get into this job with a degree in an unrelated subject. For example, if you have a degree in biochemistry or law, you may be able to find work in the marketing department of a larger scientific research company or law firm.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• at least 1 A level, or equivalent, for a foundation degree

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
• student finance for fees and living costs|https://www.gov.uk/student-finance
• university courses and entry requirements|https://www.ucas.com/

You may be able to apply for an apprenticeship, for example:

• Junior Advertising Creative Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
• Content Creator Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
• Advertising Creative Level 6 Apprenticeship, leading to a professional qualification

These can take up to 2 years to complete.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
• guide to apprenticeships|https://www.gov.uk/apprenticeships-guide

Work experience could give you a better understanding of the role. You would also make contacts who might be of help when you look for paid work in advertising.

You could try:

• volunteering
• internships
• temporary jobs

Social media sites like LinkedIn can be a useful way to make contact with companies about potential opportunities.

You can apply to agencies directly if you have the skills and knowledge needed for this job, such as:

• creativity
• writing skills
• business sense

If you have a degree, you can apply for a place on a graduate training scheme with an advertising agency.

Career Tips

You could showcase your skills by creating your own online blog or website. You'll also need to develop a portfolio of your work to show to potential employers.

You could enter the D&AD New Blood competition , which is for students and recent graduates who are not already employed in a creative role. It gives you the opportunity to work on a real client brief and promote your work.

Further Information

You can find out more about becoming an advertising copywriter from the Institute of Practitioners in Advertising (IPA) .

As an advertising copywriter, you could:

• work closely with the creative team to understand the client brief
• develop campaign ideas with an art director
• write clear and persuasive content to appeal to the target audience
• refine content based on feedback ready for final approval
• present your ideas to the agency's creative director, account team and the client
• make sure your work meets advertising practice standards
• manage tight deadlines

You could work in an office or at a client's business.