What's Happening?
Ad schools, including Miami Ad School and Brandcenter at Virginia Commonwealth University, are updating their curricula to incorporate AI education. This move aims to prepare students for a workforce reshaped by AI, which is affecting the job market for entry-level workers. The ad industry is shedding younger workers as AI becomes routine at agencies. Schools are racing to adapt to these changes and convince prospective students and employers that their education is future-ready. The traditional ad school model, focused on portfolio development, is under pressure from economic factors and digital disruption.
Why It's Important?
The integration of AI into ad school curricula is vital as the advertising industry increasingly relies on AI for various tasks. This shift demands graduates who are fluent in AI and can use it to enhance creativity and streamline campaigns. The emphasis on AI education reflects the need for students to be polymaths, capable of operating like one-person agencies. As AI becomes more prevalent, ad schools must adapt quickly to remain relevant and ensure their graduates are equipped with the necessary skills to succeed in the evolving industry.
What's Next?
Ad schools are introducing AI-focused programs, such as Miami Ad School's 10-week boot camp 'AI for Creatives,' which teaches students to create with AI tools. Brandcenter has hired its first director of technical training to keep students and faculty abreast of AI developments. Schools are conducting workshops to teach students how to creatively think and problem solve using AI. The goal is for students to leave with AI as their personal creative partner, enabling them to create portfolios and pitch decks faster.
Beyond the Headlines
The integration of AI in ad education raises questions about the balance between technical skills and the human element in advertising. Critics argue that focusing too much on AI risks diluting the human creativity that defines great advertising. The business side of advertising is sometimes overlooked in ad school training, highlighting the need for a more comprehensive approach. The pressures on traditional talent training models may lead to agencies taking the reins of education again, providing real-world experience to new talent.
