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Advertising Copywriting

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Program Code: 11621
Credential: Ontario Graduate Certificate
Start Dates: September
Program Length: 3 semesters
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Humber is proud to have the highest graduate employment and employer satisfaction rate of the GTA colleges based on Colleges Ontario’s key performance indicators for college graduates in 2022-2023.

Program Overview

So, you want to work in advertising … as an art director, copywriter or account manager. Where can you learn what you need to know to get into the game?

At Humber, we offer one-year Ontario Graduate Certificate programs in Advertising Copywriting, Advertising - Account Management, and Advertising - Art Direction. Here you can learn the necessary skills in a new, innovative format that replicates the business you are about to enter.

Students from these three advertising disciplines take classes and work together in teams to learn every aspect of the industry. Your networking begins day one.

Just like in the real world.

The Advertising Copywriting program gives you the specialized skills to develop creative solutions to real business problems. Over two intense semesters, you will develop a variety of strategic, conceptual and practical skills. You’ll learn how to write powerful, effective, engaging copy for all media. As well, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of advertising art direction, marketing, branding and strategic development. This unique combination of skills will enable you to build a comprehensive portfolio of creative work that reflects the industry standards required for field experience and entry-level copywriting positions.

Courses Open "Courses" to view individual course delivery modes.

Courses

At Humber, courses are delivered in a variety of formats:

In-Person - An in-person course is delivered fully on campus.

Online Asynchronous (A) - An online asynchronous course has no fixed class schedule and allows students to engage with the course at different times according to their needs. Faculty provide modules, which are completed independently by the students according to established deadlines.

Online Synchronous (S) - An online synchronous course is delivered fully online and requires faculty and students to participate in real-time according to a fixed schedule. Classes are scheduled for a specific day and time.

Hybrid - A hybrid course is a combination of in-person and online classes and follows a set schedule. Students must be available to attend in-person classes at scheduled times during the semester.

The chart below outlines the delivery options available for each course in this program, by campus. For some academic terms, there may be more than one delivery option available. You’ll be able to select your preferred options when building your course schedule during open enrolment. Preferences for course delivery will be considered on a first come, first served basis. Some Humber programs are also delivered fully online, where all courses are delivered online.

International students: the impact of studying from outside of Canada on Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility differs significantly based on when you start your program. Please review the PGWP eligibility before choosing your program and course delivery.

Course code and Name Delivery Type by Location
Course Code Course Name North Lakeshore IGS DL/Online
Semester 1
CAD 5000 Copywriting 101 N/A In-Person N/A N/A
CAD 5005 Art Direction 101 N/A In-Person N/A N/A
CAD 5015 Advertising Studio 1 - Copywriting and Art Direction N/A In-Person N/A N/A
COPY 5013 Writing for Digital Media 1 N/A In-Person N/A N/A
COPY 5014 Persuasive Techniques 1 N/A In-Person N/A N/A
FAA 5000 Introduction to Advertising N/A In-Person N/A N/A
FAA 5005 Creative Brief Development and Strategy N/A In-Person N/A N/A
Semester 2
CAD 5200 Intensive Portfolio Development N/A In-Person N/A N/A
CAD 5215 Advertising Studio 2 - Copywriting and Art Direction N/A In-Person N/A N/A
COPY 5513 Writing for Digital Media 2 N/A In-Person N/A In-Person
COPY 5514 Persuasive Techniques 2 N/A In-Person N/A N/A
COPY 5520 Copywriting 201 N/A In-Person N/A N/A
FAA 5205 Professional Practice N/A Online (A) N/A N/A
Semester 3
COPY 5510 Field Experience - Advertising Copywriting N/A Hybrid
In-Person
Online (A)
Online (S)
N/A N/A

Work-Integrated Learning  

Students will gain practical, hands-on experience in the industry by completing a mandatory in their final semester of study. After completing a field experience preparation course, students will be supported in marketing themselves to prospective employers in order to find a field experience that aligns with their personal career goals.

The Humber Advantage

BuildingF (formerly the AdCentre) brings marketers and agencies together with advanced students from virtually any Humber program to produce strategic creative content and technology solutions.

Instead of just being given a grade for assignments, students are provided with a chance to work with real clients, on actual accounts, receiving first-hand experience in the field.

The disciplines that can be accessed through BuildingF include anything found in a modern advertising, design or PR agency, including brand experience design, communications marketing, advertising design, writing, production, and much more.

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"Humber gave me a great foundation for copywriting and what a creative idea looks like. The attention I got from instructors really helped me build my portfolio. If you're looking to get into the creative industry, the Ad Copy program is the right place to start." 
Sucheta Shankar, Associate Creative Director, Wunderman Thompson, Graduated 2014

"The Humber Advertising Copywriting program was the perfect training ground. There, I learned how to ideate, write headlines, evaluate layouts, and more. After I had all the building blocks down, I was able to create a strong student portfolio which led to my first internship, first job, and the career I have today. I would absolutely recommend this program to all aspiring copywriters!"
Morgan Starr, Associate Creative Director, Ogilvy Canada, Graduated 2015

"This program is about so much more than a piece of paper. The instructors help you discover what makes your writing style unique and guide you as you use that to build a killer portfolio. Along the way, they also introduce you to dozens of industry professionals and do everything they can to set you up for success. Anyone interested in turning a passion for writing and big ideas into a career should apply."
Ethan MacDonald, Copywriter at McCann Canada, Graduated 2021

"I enrolled in Humber’s Advertising Copywriting program after a former student recommended it to me – and I’d gladly pass that recommendation along to anyone looking to get into the industry. The entire program is centred on preparing students for real-life applications of what is being taught. I still use techniques I learned in school daily. My favourite textbook lives on my work desk. During my time as a student, I got to visit agencies, work on live briefs, meet industry professionals, and create a portfolio. And once I was ready to shop my portfolio around, I gained access to a huge network of alumni who were eager to help a fellow Humber grad. I learned about an internship opportunity through the school which has since become my permanent, full-time position. I’m glad I took the leap and enrolled at Humber."
Justina Elias, Copywriter at Target Marketing and Communications, Graduated 2020

"I adored my time in the Humber College Advertising program because it opened my eyes to how an incredible idea in advertising can change the world. I learned how to create integrated campaigns and build a portfolio for myself, which helped me get hired within a year of graduating. The connections I made and the concepts I learned continue to help me immensely in the industry. I recommend this program to anyone interested in writing professionally."
Wendy Fox, Sr. Copywriter at Junction59, Graduated 2017

"The Advertising-Copywriting course at Humber is as rewarding as it is challenging. It pushes you to be creative beyond your boundaries and equips you with all the necessary skills that are needed to excel in the advertising industry. When I graduated, I had all the tools under my belt that readied me to take on the challenges of the advertising world. I had some of the most inspiring instructors who I revert to for advice, even to this day. I would recommend this course to anyone who wants to channel their creativity straight into a career and learn how to do it great."
Karishma Wadia, Copywriter at Zulu Alpha Kilo, Graduated 2021

"Coming into Humber, my goal was to just land a job where I could sit down. I didn’t know a thing about advertising, how the industry worked, and had no idea how it was possible to break in. This program gave me all that and more. The instructors didn’t just help me build a portfolio to get my foot in the door or give my what I needed for once I was in, they showed me I could build a career far beyond anything I’d ever imagined for myself. All by learning a skill that doesn’t even really feel like work - being creative."
Kohl Forsberg, Creative Director, Leo Burnett, Graduated 2013

"Humber’s Ad Copywriting program did an amazing job preparing me to work as a copywriter in an advertising agency. I believe that the best way to learn is by doing. And at Humber, I got to work on projects that are directly applicable to what I’m doing today. The program constantly encouraged and supported me to think of big ideas, hone my skills, build a portfolio and evolve it into something I’m truly proud of. It was such a privilege to be taught by instructors who have had a tenured career in the industry. Their insightful guidance paired with learning alongside my über-talented classmates was truly a blast and pushed me to do my best work. I’m really grateful to have been surrounded by so many like-minded, inspiring and creative people."
Emma Lorenzi, Junior Copywriter, John St, Graduated 2021

"I walked into Humber knowing little about advertising. A year later, I left with the tools and a portfolio to break in and stay in."
Jordan Darnbrough, Associate Creative Director, Rethink, Graduated 2015

Want a career in advertising AND free tuition?

Looking to get your foot in the door at one of Canada’s top creative companies? Zulu Alpha Kilo founder Zak Mroueh created the 20Doors Scholarship Fund to open doors for new voices to enter the advertising industry. This scholarship is open to BIPOC students and covers the tuition for a one-year post-graduate program in copywriting or art direction. Zulu Alpha Kilo will provide mentorship to kickstart a successful career in advertising.

To apply, send us an email at 20Doors@zulualphakilo.com with:

  • A video about yourself. In 2 minutes, introduce yourself and tell us why you think you’d be great for the ad industry.
  • An example of your creativity. Never made an ad? No problem! Send us anything from a video to music to something you wrote. We’re looking for your creative potential.

Be part of the next generation of great creative thinkers. Apply today at 20Doors.ca.

Your Career

Graduates are prepared to work as copywriters in advertising agencies, marketing communications agencies, digital agencies, in-house creative departments and other businesses that provide creative solutions to business challenges.

Program Availability

Start dates between Sept 2024 - Aug 2025
START DELIVERY LOCATION STATUS
Sep 2024 Course-Based Lakeshore Open
Start dates between Sept 2024 - Aug 2025
START DELIVERY LOCATION STATUS
Sep 2024 Course-Based Lakeshore Open

Humber is a publicly-funded institution and does not have a public-private partnership. International students graduating from Humber or Humber’s International Graduate School (IGS) are eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit.

International Students in Canada who apply for May 2024 start could be eligible for a $1,000 Scholarship*. Apply now

Start dates between Sept 2024 - Aug 2025
START DELIVERY LOCATION STATUS
Sep 2024 Course-Based Lakeshore Open

Humber is a publicly-funded institution and does not have a public-private partnership. International students graduating from Humber or Humber’s International Graduate School (IGS) are eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit.

International Students Out of Canada can Apply through Humber International

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How Humber Advertising Programs Get You Industry-Ready

Advertising at Humber Video

Watch the video to learn more about Humber's Advertising programs.


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Every attempt is made to ensure that information contained on this website is current and accurate. Humber reserves the right to correct any error or omission, modify or cancel any course, program, fee, timetable or campus location at any time without prior notice or liability to users or any other Person.

Contact Us

Admissions Questions

General Enquiries

Call 416-675-3111 or email enquiry@humber.ca. If you have already applied, be sure to check your application status on myhumber.ca.

Domestic Applicants Enquiries

Domestic applicants can book a one-on-one advising appointment with an admissions representative.

International Applicants Enquiries

Contact the International Centre for information about full-time programs (including the International Graduate School), how to apply and to follow up on your submitted application.

Program-Specific Questions

Speak to the Program Co-ordinator about the course curriculum, projects and career options.

Mary Secord, program co-ordinator
416.675.6622 ext. 3027
mary.secord@humber.ca

Campus Information

Book a campus tour to take a closer look at what it's like to be a student at Humber.

Want More Info?

Find out more about the student experience and everything that Humber has to offer Future Students.

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How To Become An Apprentice

Becoming an Apprentice

Find an employer willing to sponsor you as an apprentice.

Contact the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development to register as an apprentice.

Work with your employer approximately one year before attending Humber.

View Instructions 

Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP)

If you’re in high school – grade 11 or 12 – you can earn co-op education credits through work placements in some skilled trades.

Visit OYAP 

How to Apply

Domestic Students

Applications to Humber are made through ontariocolleges.ca. Be sure to submit your application by the equal consideration deadline of February 1. You may apply after February 1, however, post-February 1 applications will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis depending on the availability of the space in the program.

To check program availability refer to the Campus/Availability listing on Humber’s program pages, search by availability, or ontariocolleges.ca.

To see where you are in the admissions process, visit the Admissions Road Map.

International Students

If you’re an international student, you can apply directly to Humber via our International Centre.

Need Advice?

Program Advising Appointments

Get help narrowing down your program options or book a one-on-one pre-enrolment advising appointment with one of our Recruitment Officers.

Transfer & Pathway Advising

Book a virtual appointment with a Student Mobility Advisor learn more about getting Transfer Credit(s) for previous post-secondary experience, Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR), and Pathways options.

Admission Requirements

Admission selection is based on the academic criteria indicated. Meeting minimum eligibility requirements does not guarantee admission.

Admission selection is based on the following five requirements:

  • Academic

    To be eligible for admission, you must possess the following:

    • A bachelor’s degree, advanced diploma or diploma

    Mature Applicants

    Diplomas and Certificates

    An applicant is considered a mature applicant if they have not completed secondary school or other postsecondary school, and will be 19 or older as of the first day of classes. Humber will invite you for testing to demonstrate that you meet all listed course requirements.

    Degrees

    An applicant is considered a mature applicant if they have not completed secondary school or attended postsecondary studies, and will be 21 or older as of the first day of classes. Mature applicants for degree programs will be required to meet course requirements at the U/M level or equivalent.

    College Transfer Applicants

    Diplomas and Certificates

    An applicant is considered a college transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a college-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or college courses and grades to determine program eligibility.

    Degrees

    An applicant is considered a college transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a college-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or college courses and grades to determine program eligibility. Applicants must have an overall minimum grade point average (GPA) of 65 per cent in the program. Applicants are required to disclose and provide academic transcripts for all course work completed at the postsecondary level.

    University Transfer Applicants

    Diplomas and Certificates

    An applicant is considered a university transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a university-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or university courses and grades to determine program eligibility.

    Degrees

    An applicant is considered a university transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a university-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or university courses and grades to determine program eligibility. Applicants are required to disclose and provide academic transcripts for all course work completed at the postsecondary level.

  • Letter of Introduction

  • Applicants must submit a 50-word introduction of themselves. 

  • Advertisement Submissions

  • Applicants must submit the following:

    • a 300-word description of an advertisememt you love and explain why you love it.
    • a 100-word "ad" for a product called Water®. Try to persuade a Gen Z audience to drink colourless, odorless, refreshing Water®. Using words only, how would you convince someone to drink water?

    Submission Instructions

  • English Language Proficiency

    All applicants whose first language is not English must meet Humber’s English Language Proficiency Policy.

  • International Credit Evaluation

    Canadian citizens or permanent residents with international education are required to provide a credential evaluation. Note, for international High school education course by course evaluations, ICAS must be used. For international post-secondary education, a WES evaluation must be provided. In situations where you expect to apply for transfer credit, it is recommended that a course by course WES evaluation is completed.

International Academic Equivalency

Admission equivalencies for Humber depend on your country of study. Please enter your location or choose detect my location to see the requirements for your country below.

Post-Admission Requirements

Once you have been accepted, and have confirmed your offer, you may need to complete a further set of requirements related to your program (Post-Admission Requirements).

N/A

Equipment & Device Requirements

Fees & Financial Aid

The 2024/2025 fee for three semesters is:

  • domestic: $9,024.80
  • international: $19,169.12

Fees are subject to change.

Fees by Semester

Domestic Fees International Fees

Additional Costs

$500 – textbooks; $10 to $20 – print cards (each); cost for software (Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign) which can be purchased at significantly discounted educational prices.

Note: Macintosh is the industry standard, however, identical software can be purchased for PC. Humber Macintosh labs are available for students without computers.

Financial Aid, Scholarships and Bursaries

Understand the costs associated with coming to Humber and explore resources available from first year to your final year on Student Fees and Financial Resources.

Scholarships

Humber Scholarships

Find out more about scholarships and bursaries that you may be eligible for, visit Student Scholarships. International students can visit International Student Scholarships.

Humber Bursaries

Bursaries are available for Certificate, Diploma and Degree programs primarily based on financial need, visit Humber Bursaries.

External Awards, Bursaries & Scholarships

Find out more information about external scholarships and bursaries, visit External Awards.

Indigenous Student Awards, Bursaries & Scholarships

Humber offers a variety of bursaries and scholarships for Indigenous students, visit Indigenous Student Awards.

Explore Opportunities through Humber Pathways

Humber Pathways include:

  • Opportunities to build on your college education and complete your diploma or degree at Humber.
  • Degree and graduate study opportunities at other institutions in Ontario, Canada and abroad.
View Pathways Into This Program  
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