The Ultimate Guide to Getting a Marketing Degree
A marketing degree is an in-demand business major that covers fundamental tactics for creating brand recognition and advertising products and services to the public, with the ultimate goal of generating sales.
- By: The College Compass Team
Enrolling in a marketing degree can be an exciting and rewarding experience. This degree is one of the most popular majors in business programs that will expand your horizons for a successful career in the industry and prepare you to tackle any obstacle in today’s cutthroat business landscape.
Earning a degree in marketing is fundamental for those wishing to sharpen their abilities within market research, consumer behavior assessment and product promotion.
Such qualifications can open doors of opportunity into career paths such as advertising, public relations, digital marketing, brand management or beyond. With a degree in this field you`ll be able to develop innovative approaches that draw customers and construct lasting relationships with them.
Pursuing a marketing degree with enthusiasm and commitment will open up many career paths while arming you with the resources essential to attain long-term success in your profession.
What is a Marketing Degree?
A marketing degree is an undergraduate or graduate degree that focuses on the fundamentals of modern businesses, such as market research, advertising, public relations, consumer behavior, product management, and more. This program aims to teach students how to promote products and services using effective strategies and tactics and empower them with the skills to become successful marketers in today’s digital world.
This versatile major also leads to advertising, sales, and public relations opportunities. Marketing professionals research consumer demand for products and services, investigate pricing strategies and build interest in new product releases through social media and advertisements.
In this fast-paced world, a marketing degree can also help graduates stand out from other job applicants due to their knowledge of current strategies and trends. As the global economy continues to evolve, having a solid foundation in marketing techniques is essential for employers. A degree in marketing can help make graduates more competitive and give them an edge when it comes to finding employment.
What are the Marketing Degree levels?
When considering a degree in marketing, it is essential to understand the different education levels available and their individual requirements and focus points. Doing so will ensure that you make the most informed decision for your educational journey and your career.
Certificate in Marketing
Obtaining a certificate in marketing helps to hone your skills and specialize in the field of marketing. With this, many professionals seek out these certifications as they strive for successful transitions into new fields or an added specialization to their training profile.
Obtaining a marketing certificate can range from several months to over a year, depending on the program. After finishing the course requirements, marketers are then qualified for specialized positions such as digital marketing specialists or social media experts.
Entry requirement:
- High school diploma or equivalent
Associate in Marketing
An associate degree in marketing takes two years for full-time students and around 60-course credits. It introduces learners to foundational business concepts and offers business, accounting, and finance courses, along with strategic marketing and integrated marketing communications classes.
An associate degree might be the best path for you if you want to enroll in a post-secondary program and gain a firm understanding of this field but aren’t sure that a four-year degree is your goal. Also, you may qualify for an entry-level position in marketing, sales, and administrative support roles.
Entry requirement:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- SAT and/or ACT scores
Bachelors in Marketing
A bachelor’s degree lasts four years and requires 120-course credits. It prepares marketing majors for entry-level positions, as well as those with more responsibilities and advancement opportunities.
In the field of marketing, there are two common pathways to pursue a Bachelor’s degree: Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Science (BS). Even though both programs may acquaint you with basics such as market research and strategies, their main divergence lies in their core emphasis.
Bachelor of Arts in Marketing
Earning your Bachelor of Arts in marketing provides a well-rounded education in the industry. Some programs may direct their attention more toward softer skills, such as communication and brand management, while also providing additional flexibility in picking courses and electives. If creativity resonates with you, this degree could be perfect for you.
Bachelor of Science in Marketing
A BS in marketing also covers a broad marketing survey while focusing more on this field’s economics, finance, and business side. This path would be ideal for you if the scientific and technological aspects of marketing appeal to you.
Entry requirement:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- SAT and/or ACT scores
- GRE or GMAT scores
Masters in Marketing
Pursuing a master’s degree in marketing will provide you with specialized training on cutting-edge research methods, expert marketing strategies, and efficient management techniques.
While enrolled in a graduate Marketing program, students have the opportunity to hone their research and analytical skills. Additionally, by taking advantage of internships through the program, they can gain invaluable practical experience. Obtaining a Master’s in Marketing is typically achieved within two years; however, some programs offer an accelerated version of the degree, allowing students to complete it faster.
There are two types of master’s degrees in marketing: a Master of Science in Marketing (MSM) and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a marketing concentration. In either program, you’ll be able to dive deeper into concepts, theories, and strategies taught in a traditional four-year degree program. You’ll also complete an ambitious capstone project, such as writing your thesis or creating a comprehensive marketing plan for today’s businesses.
Master of Science in Marketing (MSM)
The Master of Science in Marketing (MSM) Degree focuses on complex marketing topics, theories, and tactics instead of leadership or business management. This degree track is perfect for those who want to delve deeper into a particular marketing area, such as analytics or digital media, and offers the opportunity to specialize your career within the marketing realm.
Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a marketing concentration
An MBA with a marketing concentration offers a broader business education than an MSM. It might include topics such as leadership, economics, and finance while also providing coursework in marketing. If you’re eager to develop your leadership abilities while leveraging high-level competencies in multiple business sectors, an MBA is an ideal choice. Entering a degree program with several years of work experience under your belt will set you up for success and give you an edge over other prospective students.
Doctorate in Marketing
The pinnacle of academic excellence in the field of marketing is earned by receiving a doctorate degree. There are two types of doctorate degrees in marketing: PhD and Doctor of Business Administration (DBA). After taking required classes, students must pass comprehensive tests and author research papers or dissertations as part of their requirements for graduation. Completing a doctorate may take 4-7 years, depending on each individual’s program requirements.
PhD in Marketing
Pursuing a PhD in marketing is an excellent way to gain the key skills necessary for conducting original research on topics related to this field. The degree combines elements from psychology, economics, statistics, and management science together with traditional academic research methods – making it perfect if you’d like to teach at a college or university level or work on publishing scholarly papers.
DBA in Marketing
The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is a degree that emphasizes practical applications in business over theory. If you earn your DBA in marketing, it could pave the way for becoming a leader within an organization. Many graduates go on to become marketing executives or even CEOs after completing their doctorates. With hard work and dedication, your future career path will be well-equipped with knowledge acquired through this program.
Disclaimer: The entry requirements for a degree in Marketing may vary depending on your university and state. However, here we have outlined the general qualifications that are frequently asked for.
What types of specialties and concentrations can you find in Marketing Degree programs?
Whether you’re interested in researching consumer behavior or developing creative ad campaigns for various media outlets, a marketing degree offers a variety of specialties and concentrations that will provide a tailored education according to what interests you the most.
Each concentration has unique benefits that can help launch your career in the right direction; it just depends on your interests and what type of work you want to do when you enter the job market.
Ultimately though, no matter which specialization you choose within your program – each offers valuable insight into the ever-evolving world of modern marketing techniques – setting you up for success no matter which area you pursue after graduation!
Digital Marketing Concentration
Digital marketing is one of the fastest-growing areas of marketing, providing an opportunity for students to gain knowledge on how to use digital channels such as social media, search engine optimization (SEO), content creation, email campaigns, website design, and development.
Digital marketers have the tools to create effective campaigns to reach their target audiences more effectively than traditional advertising techniques. With a digital marketing specialization, you will learn how to analyze data and use it to improve campaigns as well as develop strategies for increasing brand awareness.
Market Research Concentration
Market Research allows students to gain insight into consumer behavior and markets by conducting research through surveys, focus groups, interviews, and other methods. Students learn to interpret data from research studies and use it to make informed decisions about products or services.
This concentration provides an understanding of how markets work so that companies can better target their audience and meet their needs more effectively. Additionally, it enables marketers to identify trends in consumer behavior which can help them predict future market conditions.
Advertising Concentration
Advertising is all about creating persuasive messages that engage consumers to influence their buying decisions. This specialization focuses on creative messaging techniques advertisers use to reach their target audiences more effectively.
You will learn how to develop creative ad campaigns that can be used across multiple platforms while also learning the basics of print design and layout and graphic design fundamentals. Additionally, you will explore different advertising formats, including radio commercials, television commercials, outdoor banners, print ads, and online ads.
Courses & Curriculum in Marketing Degrees
Marketing degree courses focus on multiple ways to develop and sell products to distinct customer markets and learn various ways to promote a company’s products and services.
Each school creates its curriculum for required and elective marketing courses according to mandated accrediting regulations and a unique interpretation of past, current, and future practices. This ensures that students learn relevant skills while staying up-to-date with the changing dynamics of the field.
The following courses will give you an overview of the classes you may enroll in to receive your Marketing degree.
Global Marketing Techniques
Global marketing techniques is one of the most important courses offered in a marketing degree program. This course will help you to familiarize yourself with the various strategies used on an international level when it comes to advertising, product development, promotion, pricing, and distribution. In addition, this course may also cover topics such as international market research, legal issues related to global operations, exchange rate fluctuations, cultural differences, and more.
Marketing Research
The marketing research course introduces various techniques used in marketing decisions, such as surveys, focus groups, experimentation, data collection, and analysis methods. It also covers topics related to how to interpret customer behavior as well as how to make decisions based on these interpretations. Students can develop their research proposals and learn about different methodologies for gathering customer and stakeholder data.
Marketing Strategy and Management
The marketing strategy and management course focuses on developing an overall plan for a business’s products or services by analyzing market conditions, customer needs, competitor activities, potential markets for growth, and other factors that may affect the success of a product or service offering. This course will help students understand how to create effective strategies for pricing products/services and promotional tactics designed to reach customer segments effectively.
Corporations & Financing
This course covers the basics of corporate finance, including capital budgeting decisions such as debt versus equity financing options available for businesses seeking funding or additional capital investments. In addition, students learn about different types of financial instruments companies use, including stock options and bonds, so they can better understand how these tools can be used strategically when making critical financial decisions.
Retail & Sales Management
Retail & sales management focuses on understanding retail operations from both practical and analytical perspectives. This course provides students with valuable insight into best practices related to sales force management, including hiring/training processes and tips for optimizing employee performance through motivation/incentive schemes explicitly designed for retail employees.
On-campus vs. Hybrid vs. Online Marketing Degrees
It’s no secret that getting a degree in marketing can be a great way to jumpstart your career. However, there are several options when it comes to choosing a program. Do you go for an on-campus program? A hybrid program? Or an online program? You may be wondering which one is right for you.
Let’s break down the differences between these three types of programs so that you can decide which kind of marketing degree will best suit your needs.
On-Campus Program
An on-campus degree requires attending all in-person classes at a university or college. This type of program offers face-to-face interaction with professors and other students in the classroom setting and access to campus resources such as libraries and career centers.
Additionally, being on campus allows students to take advantage of extracurricular activities such as clubs and student organizations. The downside to this type of program is that it can be expensive due to tuition and living expenses.
Hybrid Program
A hybrid program combines online coursework with some traditional on-campus classes. This type of program allows students the flexibility to study from home while still having access to some in-person courses with professors and peers.
The main benefit of this option is that it allows students who work full time or have other commitments the freedom to structure their studies around their busy schedule without sacrificing any quality of education or connection with peers or professors. However, this option may only be available at some universities or colleges due to limited resources or faculty availability.
Online Program
An online degree provides maximum flexibility since courses are taken entirely online through virtual classrooms and discussion boards. Students can take classes from any location anytime they want as long as they can access the internet and a computer.
This option is ideal for working professionals who need more flexibility than a traditional program offers but still want quality instruction from experienced faculty members. The downside is that there is less opportunity for networking with peers and faculty members and fewer opportunities for extracurricular activities compared to an on-campus or hybrid program.
Overall, before selecting an on-campus, hybrid, or online marketing degree program for yourself, it’s essential to consider your lifestyle and educational aspirations.
Whether you need more scheduling flexibility due to work obligations or prefer face-to-face interaction with professors and peers before committing yourself to any particular path toward completing your degree in marketing.- It all depends on you!
What to consider when choosing a Marketing Degree?
With so many marketing degree programs available, it can take time to choose the right one. When selecting the right marketing degree, there is much to consider, from accreditation to personal goals to classes.
But don’t worry, we’re here to help by giving you tips on what to look for to provide you with everything you need to know before deciding.
1. Research the different types of marketing degrees available. Determine what career path you want to pursue and which degree will best prepare you for that.
2. Look into programs accredited by a reputable organization, such as the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) or the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). This is important because it ensures that the program meets specific standards and that employers will recognize your degree.
3. Consider the tuition cost, fees, and financial aid options for each school you’re interested in. Determine which program is most affordable for your budget and what kind of scholarships or grants you may be eligible to receive.
4. Find out if the school offers internship or job placement opportunities upon graduation so that you can gain experience in the field.
5. Speak with students of the program to better understand what it will be like and if they are satisfied with their degree.
6. Examine the curriculum of each program you’re considering, paying close attention to the courses they offer and how they align with your goals.
7. Ask the admission counselor of each school if they offer any particular resources that could help you in your career, such as networking events or mentorships.
8. Read reviews online to understand what other students think about the program and whether it fits you well.
9. Explore the faculty and their credentials, ensuring that they are experienced professionals in the field of marketing.
10. Consider the location of each school and if it is where you see yourself living and working post-graduation. Consider whether online learning or traditional classroom settings would work better for your lifestyle and needs; this will help ensure that you select a school that meets academic and personal criteria.
What can I do with a Marketing Degree?
Taking that giant leap into a degree in marketing opens up many doors of opportunity for you, from entry-level to managerial roles, and provides insight into average salaries and job outlooks.The good news is that the demand for marketing professionals with strong digital media abilities will continue to rise as businesses and their customers move online.
A Marketing degree can open the door to various career opportunities in different industries. After graduating with a marketing degree, you will be well-equipped to thrive in roles like Brand Manager, Business Development Manager, Digital Marketer, Media Planner and Social Media Strategist. With the right skill set and knowledge at your fingertips, a bright future awaits!
You can work in nearly any industry with a marketing degree, from retail to technology to hospitality.The opportunities are infinite.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), marketing manager positions are expected to skyrocket by 10% over the next decade, while market research analyst roles will see an amazing surge in growth at 22%.
Marketing Degree Salary
Many careers in marketing pay above-average salaries. For example, The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that, as of May 2020, marketing managers earned a substantial median annual salary in the United States of $142,170. What’s even more amazing is the estimated 10% growth rate this industry will experience all the way through 2030.
Here are some common jobs requiring a marketing degree that can put you on the path toward growth.
Top Marketing Degree Jobs you can get:
Marketing Manager
Marketing Managers plan, direct, or coordinate marketing policies and programs, such as determining the demand for products and services offered by a firm and its competitors, and identify potential customers.
Average Salary
$133,380 per year
Degree Level
Bachelor's
Market Research Analysts
Market research analysts study consumer preferences, business conditions, and other factors to assess potential sales of a product or service.
Average Salary
$63,920 per year
Degree Level
Bachelor's
Social Media Manager
Social media managers focus their marketing efforts on social media. The specific social media platforms you work on will depend on the company, brand, or client you are working with and their specific target audience and business goals.
Average Salary
$55,117 per year
Degree Level
Bachelor's
Public relations specialist
Public relations specialists are in charge of brand image for their employers. They develop a public relations strategy, manage social media programs, and write media releases to build positive public perception of their organization.
Average Salary
$61,150 per year
Degree Level
Bachelor's
Meeting, convention, and event planner
Meeting, convention, and event planners arrange all aspects of events and professional gatherings.
Average Salary
$49,470 per year
Degree Level
Bachelor's
Sales Manager
Sales managers oversee a team of sales professionals. They develop policies for the sales team, set goals, and analyze data to find opportunities for improvement. Sales managers also create training and reward programs for their sales teams.
Average Salary
$126,640 per year
Degree Level
Bachelor's
Top executive
Top executives create long-term development strategies for their organizations. They may work as general managers, organizational managers, CEOs, CFOs, or chief marketing officers.duals and corporations with the complicated process of filing their taxes.
They proficiently utilize tax preparation software while drawing on their expertise regarding taxing regulations.
Average Salary
$98,980 per year
Degree Level
Bachelor's
Technical writers
Technical writers prepare instruction manuals, how-to guides, journal articles, and other supporting documents to communicate complex and technical information more easily.
Average Salary
$78,060 per year
Degree Level
Bachelor's
*Please be advised that the average salary provided by the BLS may deviate significantly from state to state and occupation to occupation, depending on various factors.
Popular colleges with Marketing Degree Programs
University of Pennsylvania
The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania is one of the top-ranked business schools in the country, and its marketing degree program is no exception. Students can choose from a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Marketing and pursue a PhD in Marketing from this Ivy League school. With a theoretical and practical curriculum, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the principles of marketing and its application in business.
New York University
Located in the heart of one of the world’s great cities, NYU Stern School of Business strongly focuses on creating innovative business leaders who understand consumer behavior and how to reach target markets best. The undergraduate and graduate marketing degree programs at NYU Stern offer various options, from a minor in Marketing to an MBA with a concentration in Marketing.
University of California Los Angeles
UCLA Anderson School of Management is highly acclaimed in the business world and its marketing program stands out as exceptional. Students can explore one or multiple aspects of marketing, from digital media to analytics to consumer behavior, at both undergraduate and graduate levels.
University of Texas at Austin
The McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas offers an extensive selection of undergraduate and graduate degrees in Marketing, with concentrations ranging from advertising to customer relationship management. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your skills in marketing research or develop a comprehensive understanding of global markets, the McCombs School has something for you.
University of Chicago
The Booth School of Business at the University of Chicago is considered one of the top business schools in the world, and its marketing degree program reflects that distinction. With a comprehensive curriculum covering everything from consumer behavior to marketing analytics, students can choose from various concentrations and gain the skills necessary for long-term success in the marketing field.
FAQ about Marketing Degree Programs
Yes, a marketing degree is definitely worth it. It gives students an in-depth knowledge of the principles and strategies used to develop effective campaigns and market products. In addition to this, a marketing degree teaches students how to analyze data and create reports that can help inform business decisions.
With a Marketing Degree, you will acquire various skills such as communication, problem-solving, creative thinking, critical analysis, market research, data interpretation, and more.
It typically takes two to four years to earn a marketing degree. It can vary depending on the type of program and the number of credits required. Students should research individual schools and programs to determine what time is necessary for completion.
The cost of a marketing degree can vary greatly depending on the college or university, program, and location. Generally speaking, tuition costs for a bachelor’s degree in marketing range from $7,000 to over $40,000 per year.
Continuing education and professional development after earning a Marketing Degree can include taking additional courses or seminars, pursuing certifications in specialty areas such as digital marketing, content marketing, or social media marketing, attending conferences and networking events related to the field of marketing, to stay up-to-date with news and trends in the industry, and become involved in research or other projects related to marketing.
A marketing degree focuses on marketing principles, such as consumer behavior and market research. A digital marketing degree focuses on using digital tools, platforms, and techniques to create effective campaigns that reach a wider audience. In general, both degrees equip students with the skills to develop marketing strategies for various channels; however, a digital marketing degree provides more in-depth knowledge of leveraging technology to help reach customers online.
Depending on the individual’s experience and interests, many potential career paths can be explored with a marketing degree, including Public Relations Specialist, Event Planner, Social Media Manager, Digital Marketer, Product Manager, Business Development Manager, Market Research Analyst, Advertising Account Executive, and more.
Summary
With a marketing degree, you’ll learn how to create effective marketing campaigns and strategies, analyze market trends and customer behavior, develop digital marketing solutions, manage budgets and teams, and more.
Nowadays, careers in marketing report above-average salaries and strong projected job growth rates, making marketing a strong career choice that can open up a world of opportunities for enthusiastic individuals.
By pursuing a marketing degree, you will have the full potential for an incredibly successful career path.
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