how to apply to the msi

Get ready to take the next step toward a successful media sales career

Next MSI: June 2-12, 2025 at the AUC!

Don’t miss your chance to jumpstart your media sales career with hands-on training and networking.

“Media Sales” is defined as “selling advertising airtime or space (on or in) cable, digital, internet, outdoor, publications, radio and television”. In 2000, The Media Sales Institute program was initially designed for recent college graduates who were passionately interested in pursuing a career in media sales. In 2016, the program launched the first institute open to Military Personnel (Post 9/11), career changers and recent college graduates.

NOTE: “Accepted” applicants will be awarded a $8000 scholarship to cover the cost of: Tuition, Training Materials, Room & Board; and will be awarded on a rolling basis.

MSI at a Glance
Explore the essential facts about the Media Sales Institute (MSI), a program designed to launch the careers of recent college graduates. From industry-leading instructors to networking with top media companies, MSI provides the tools, training, and connections needed to succeed in media sales. Learn how graduates gain a competitive edge through hands-on experience and exclusive opportunities.

Developed in 2000

The MSI was developed by PSP and launched at Howard University in 2000

FAMU IN 2006

The first expansion school was Florida A & M University (FAMU) in 2006

competitive advantage

Recruiters state MSI candidates have a “competitive advantage” entering media sales

NATIONAL RECRUiTING

Candidates have been recruited by national and local media companies

UNT IN 2007

Expanded to the University of North Texas (UNT) in 2007

EMERGING LEADERS

MSI graduates have been promoted into management

HOW TO APPLY?

Ready to jumpstart your career in media sales? Learn how to apply for the Media Sales Institute (MSI). Whether you’re a recent graduate, military veteran, or career changer, our step-by-step application process is designed to help you take the next step toward a successful media career. Find out everything you need to know to get started today!

You will learn the fundamentals of media sales, including revenue generation, ratings, customer development, marketing strategies, and effective business communication. The curriculum covers key areas such as the foundation for media ownership, demographics, business ethics, corporate culture, sales presentations, targeting audiences, and building a customer base through strategic marketing—plus much more!

Your paid registration (valued at $7,500) includes housing, meals, and all training materials. You’ll participate in one-on-one interviews with Fortune 500 media companies and gain valuable networking opportunities with industry executives. Additionally, you will earn NABOB Media Sales, Nielsen TV, and Nielsen Audio certifications.

The MSI at the AUC is open to Recent Graduates (Dec/May 2025), Career Changers (graduates before 2023) and Military Personnel (Post 9/11).

Submit a completed MSI application, resume, two professional letters of recommendation and a 500-word essay describing why attending the MSI at the AUC will be valuable to you and your career goals. A brief description of internships and/or relevant work experience is optional.

The MSI at the AUC is underwritten by the National Association of Black Owned Broadcasters Telecommunications Education and Management Foundation. Accepted applicants are granted a full scholarship to cover the cost of tuition, books, room and board. (If traveling from outside of Atlanta)