Worcester State University campus with pink blossoms on trees.
Sheehan Hall at Worcester State University.
Worcester State University gate.
Worcester State University logo

Client Profile

Worcester State University is a public institution of higher education founded in 1874. Our team’s marketing efforts have focused on promoting WSU as an affordable and high quality educational option with opportunities for hands-on research, effective career preparation, a vibrant city and campus life and a diverse student population.

"Working with Richardson Media Group gives me the opportunity to refocus my energy elsewhere because I know I'm in good hands. Anne and her team are responsive, creative, and resourceful. They take great care to understand client goals and be good stewards of client brands, messages, and reputations. Their strengths in marketing strategy, media buying, and tracking and measurement mean they can follow through from idea to results. I highly recommend Richardson Media Group for marketing teams who need a reliable and dedicated strategic partner to bring their marketing initiatives to life."

Agency Partners

Worcester State University’s 2018-19 campaign was produced through a collaboration with our agency partners kor group and 43,000 feet.

Campaign Objectives

The 2018-19 advertising campaign was designed to raise awareness of Worcester State University as a cost-effective and competitive higher educational option and to drive undergraduate and transfer student admissions. Media outlets were selected to showcase advertising directed to three target audience personas: prospective students, influencers and transfer students. Geographic targets included Worcester and Boston metro areas to capture both commuter and residential applicants.​ In addition to the primary recruitment campaign, we have assembled and implemented several smaller media plans, including one targeting Worcester-area business owners to promote the school’s Center for Business and Industry. Another plan scheduled to launch in July 2019 focuses on two of WSU’s Master degree programs, the Master in Public Administration and Policy and Master in Policy Management. A combination of digital advertising and regional public radio underwriting are being used for these shorter duration campaigns.

Media Plan

The primary recruitment media plan called for a combination of traditional and digital media elements, including online and mobile display, re-targeting, paid search, paid social, as well as OOH, radio, and print vehicles.

Campaign Results

A balanced buy between digital media vehicles and traditional media outlets supported continued growth in both undergraduate and transfer student applications over the past academic recruitment cycle. Ads delivered over 11.5 million targeted gross impressions, achieving lead form conversion goals while driving audiences to dedicated landing pages containing content aligned with the advertising campaign.