A PG Diploma in Advertising is a one-year, industry-oriented postgraduate program designed to develop creative and strategic communication professionals. The course introduces the subject of advertising management, copywriting, media planning, digital marketing, and brand development, which mix theory and project work.
The eligibility criteria for the PGD in Advertising is that the candidate must have completed a bachelor’s degree with an aggregate of 45-55% marks. Some of the leading colleges that conduct this program are MICA Ahmedabad, Xavier Institute of Communications (Mumbai) and Indian Institute of Mass Communication (Delhi), and course fees range between INR 50,000 – INR 3,00,000, depending upon the college.
The job profiles that can be availed by the graduates are Copywriter, Media Planner, Digital Marketing Specialist, Brand Manager, Account Executive and Client Servicing. The course holds the keys to advertising agencies, digital media and corporate marketing teams and presents strong career progression and good salaries in the Indian dynamic communications industry. The average salary you can earn after completing a PG Diploma in Advertising is between INR 3 LPA – 7 LPA.
Table of Contents
- PG Diploma in Advertising Course Highlights
- What is a PG Diploma in Advertising?
- Why Study for a PG Diploma in Advertising?
- Who Should Study for a PG Diploma in Advertising?
- PG Diploma in Advertising Eligibility Criteria
- PG Diploma in Advertising Entrance Exams 2025
- PG Diploma in Advertising Colleges in India
- PG Diploma in Advertising Admission Process 2025
- PG Diploma in Advertising Syllabus and Duration
- PG Diploma in Advertising Job Opportunities in India
- PG Diploma in Advertising FAQs
PG Diploma in Advertising Course Highlights
Given below are some of the basic course highlights for the PG Diploma in Advertising:
What is a PG Diploma in Advertising?
PG diploma in advertising is a professional one-year post-graduation course that aims at producing graduates with advanced theoretical knowledge and basic skills of advertising and communication. The major concerns which are covered in this course are advertising management, media planning, copywriting, brand management, digital strategies and marketing communications.
Students pursuing this diploma receive enriching information on consumer behavior, market research, integrated marketing communications, and how the ad agency operates. The combination of classroom learning, workshops, internships, and industry projects within the program which cultivates strategic thinking and creativity.
Students can also consider, MBA in Advertising Management
Why Study for a PG Diploma in Advertising?
A PG Diploma in Advertising offers targeted, industry-focused training for those interested in a creative and fast-changing field. The course is theoretical and practice is incorporated to make the learners job-ready. Graduates acquire the skills and networks required to lead a successful career in advertising.
- Dynamic Curriculum: The programs are constantly upgraded with the latest trends so as to equip and enable students to deal with the new media world.
- Practical Learning: Real-world projects, live client assignments and industry internships focus on delivering best practical skills and more creativity in thinking.
- Fast entry in the Work Force: The courses offered in PG Diploma programs are only a year enabling entry to the job market and career development at an early age.
- Networking & Alumni Success: Eligibility to be trained by the industry practitioners, present alumni, and skilled hands-on the job experience enables effective professional networking and prospects of long-term career development.
Who Should Study for a PG Diploma in Advertising?
A PG Diploma in Advertising is ideal for those with a drive for creativity and communication. The program is ideal for those who want to have careers in branding and media with ready influence. It is open to fresh graduates as well as those already in work seeking to upgrade.
- People who dream of creating brands, influencing consumer attitudes, and making excellent advertising projects.
- It is open to people who have received a bachelor's degree in any field of study and want to join the marketing and advertising field.
- Suitable in case an individual has the ability to think creatively and specialises in content creation, copywriting, and visual communication.
- Individuals who Desire Career Development: It is ideal for individuals who are already working in the advertising, marketing, or digital market and need to advance or develop specialisation.
- Entrepreneurs and Business Owners: People who want to market their own businesses and develop their skills in brand-building and marketing.
- Persons who are upbeat toward dynamic-fast-paced jobs: Individuals seeking fresh, variable, and, demanding assignments in agencies, company communications, or media houses.
PG Diploma in Advertising Eligibility Criteria
A PG Diploma in Advertising welcomes graduates eager to break into the creative world of advertising and communications. This course is open to different backgrounds. There are slight differences between colleges about eligibility nevertheless the basic requirements are similar.
- Educational Qualification: The candidates should have a Bachelor's degree in any subject from a recognized university or institution.
- Minimum Marks: In most institutions, the basic marks required to qualify are 45 %-55 % aggregate marks in graduation. The reserved category applicants are likely to enjoy some lenient standards (generally 40 per cent).
- Final-Year Students: Final-year students of a bachelor's degree are usually allowed to apply, though they may bring evidence of passing when they come to the college to learn.
- Entrance Exams: There are colleges that require one to clear national-level/university-level entrance exams, i.e. MICAT, XIC OET, CAT, MAT, or college-level entrance exams.
- Work experience: This is not a requirement, but working professionals and aspirants of the media industry are welcome, given that there are spaces in some of the programs allowed to them.
- No Age restriction: Regardless of age there is no age limit to the admission of most institutes.
- Other Conditions: Online or digitally oriented diploma: a minimum level of computer and internet knowledge may be required.
PG Diploma in Advertising Entrance Exams 2025
Entrance exams are essential gateways for admission to the PG Diploma in Advertising programs across India. These exams evaluate a candidate’s aptitude for communications, analytical skills, and general awareness. The important state- and national-level entrance exams for the 2026 intake are listed below with key details.
PG Diploma in Advertising Colleges in India
Choosing the best college ensures quality faculty, industry networks, and a cutting-edge curriculum. Here are some of the best colleges in India for the PG Diploma in Advertising, along with vital details for 2025 admissions.
PG Diploma in Advertising Admission Process 2025
The admission to PG Diploma in Advertising is based on the merit of the candidate. However, some universities also conduct entrance exams in order to assess the skills or may give admission based on national-level entrance test scores.
For your reference, given below is the step-by-step admission process for the PG Diploma in Advertising at MICA, Ahmedabad.
Step 1. Visit the official website of MICA and submit an online application form and pay the application fee ( 2100 ).
Step 2. A candidate should possess an acceptable undergraduate degree (in any field).
Step 3. Sit in one of the listed national exams i.e., CAT, XAT, or GMAT.
Step 4. Eligible applicants will have to give a MICA-specific computer-based Test, MICAT, which has three sections, i.e., logical reasoning, creative writing, and general awareness.
Step 5. A list of candidates is shortlisted on the basis of total scores in CAT/XAT/GMAT and MICAT.
Step 6. Selection Rounds: Shortlisted applicants are to take part in Group Exercise (GE) and Personal Interview (PI).
Step 7. Final Merit List: The final selection is done on a weighted composite score of PI, MICAT, GE and entrance exams.
Step 8. Admission Offer: The qualified applicants can be given an official offer of admission and should respond by paying the stipulated fees and submitting the necessary documents within the stipulated time.
Required Documents
- Graduation mark sheets and degree certificates
- 10th and 12th mark sheets/certificates
- Valid ID proof (Aadhaar/PAN Card/Passport)
- Passport-sized colour photographs
- Entrance exam scorecards (CAT/XAT/GMAT)
- MICAT admit card and scorecard
- Work experience certificates (if applicable)
PG Diploma in Advertising Syllabus and Duration
A PG Diploma in Advertising from IIMC (Indian Institute of Mass communication) is crafted to develop industry-ready professionals in strategic communication, creative advertising, and digital marketing. The program balances theory with practical exposure, ensuring students acquire essential skills for modern advertising careers. It is typically completed in one year, split into two semesters covering comprehensive marketing and communication domains.
PG Diploma in Advertising Job Opportunities in India
A PG Diploma in Advertising opens avenues to diverse, well-paying careers in India’s media, digital, and corporate sectors. The table below presents key roles, experience levels, top recruiters, average salaries, and the primary sectors hiring these professionals.
PG Diploma in Advertising FAQs
Can I pursue a PG Diploma in Advertising if I have a gap year or a non-traditional academic background?
Yes, the majority of institutes do not have a problem with a gap year or even a varied educational background, so long as they meet the graduation requirements. Nevertheless, you might be expected to explain your period in academic break and demonstrate your drive in interviews.
Are internships mandatory during the PG Diploma in Advertising program?
Most of the highest-ranked colleges highly recommend or even require internships to be taken as a course requirement; however, the demands may be different. Internships are a great way to gain exposure to the industry, have work experience and are also likely to enhance the chances of landing a job post-graduation.
Within the diploma, is it possible to work in a specific field, e.g., Digital Advertising or Public Relations specialising in the diploma?
A large number of institutes have an option of doing elective modules or even basing one’s project/internship on a specialised stream such as Digital Advertising, Public Relations, Media Planning or Brand Management, depending on the curriculum structure of the college.
What type of assistance do colleges give to placements upon graduating with a diploma?
Top Colleges should provide a placement cell that gives career guidance, resume preparation courses and on-campus recruitments. Placement is however not guaranteed and will be subject to performance, skillset and the market.
How does a PG Diploma in Advertising differ from a Master’s degree in Mass Communication?
A PG Diploma in Advertising focuses specifically on advertising and related skills in a condensed format (typically one year), whereas a Master’s in Mass Communication covers broader topics over a longer duration, including journalism, media research, and communication studies.
Are international students permitted to enter this program in India and what are the requirements?
Yes, many premier Indian institutes accept international applicants for the PG Diploma in Advertising. The commonly required applicants must possess similar qualifications and valid travel papers with reasonable chances of proving mastery of the English language through standardised tests. Particular needs vary depending on the institution.
