High School

You can prepare for a career as an advertising account executive by taking a variety of courses at the high school level. Basic courses in English, journalism, communication, economics, psychology, business, social science, and mathematics are important for aspiring advertising account executives.

Postsecondary Training

Most advertising agencies hire college graduates whose degrees can vary widely, from English, journalism, or marketing to business administration, speech communications, or fine arts. Courses in psychology, sociology, business, economics, and any art medium are helpful. Some positions require a graduate degree in advertising, art, or marketing. Others may call for experience in a particular field, such as health care, insurance, or retail.

While most employers prefer a broad liberal arts background with courses in marketing, market research, sales, consumer behavior, communication, and technology, many also seek employees who already have some work experience. Those candidates who have completed on-the-job internships at agencies or have developed portfolios will have a competitive edge.

Other Education or Training

The American Association of Advertising Agencies offers the Institute of Practitioners in Advertising in conjunction with the Institute of Practitioners in Advertising (a sister organization in the United Kingdom). The program awards several different certificates (Commercial, Foundation, Digital Performance, Advanced, and EFF Test) and the Excellence Diploma for professionals with different levels of experience.

The Interactive Advertising Bureau offers in-depth classes in a variety of categories, including cross-platform video, digital fundamentals, digital media buying and planning, and digital media sales. Some classes are aimed at preparing students for certification exams.

Certification or Licensing

The Interactive Advertising Bureau offers certificates in digital media sales, digital media buying and planning, and ad operations to candidates who meet education and experience requirements and pass an examination. Contact the bureau for more information.

Any experience working in the advertising industry, as well as the completion of at least one college internship, will be useful for aspiring account executives

While account executives do not need to have the same degree of artistic skill or knowledge as art directors or graphic designers, they must be imaginative and understand the communication methods of art, photography, video, and print and digital media in order to direct the overall progress of an ad campaign. They should also be able to work under pressure, motivate employees, solve problems, and demonstrate flexibility, good judgment, decisiveness, and patience.

Account executives must be aware of trends and be interested in the business climate and the psychology of making purchases. In addition, they should be able to write clearly, make effective presentations, and communicate persuasively. It is also helpful to stay abreast of the various software programs used in advertising design and management. This career generally requires long hours and frequent travel to visit clients, so being flexible in terms of time and commitment is key.