Depending on your goals and the time and financial commitment you're able to make, you can pursue undergraduate or graduate degrees in marketing.
Associate Degree Marketing Programs
An associate degree in marketing can help you land an entry-level job, such as a social media associate and associate content writer. There are associate programs in digital marketing, marketing and sales, and fashion marketing.
You'll likely need a bachelor's degree, however, if you want to move into marketing manager roles. A bachelor's degree may also boost your salary prospects.
Bachelor's Degree Marketing Programs
Graduates who earn a bachelor's degree in marketing typically come away with an understanding of the relationship between companies and agencies and their customers, as well as trends in the field.
Bachelor's programs typically include comprehensive classes about core marketing principles, business communication, and the general business landscape. They'll also cover specialized subjects such as applied marketing research and sales management. In addition, students are also usually required to take core business classes in economics, finance, and general management.
Bachelor's programs typically include comprehensive classes about core marketing principles, business communication, and the general business landscape.
A bachelor's degree will prepare you for an entry-level role, and at many companies, you may be qualified to move into management after you gain experience.
MBA in Marketing
A Master of Business Administration (MBA) in marketing builds on the coursework of your undergraduate schooling and can prepare you for a top marketing or business management role. An MBA will offer a broad understanding of how a business functions as a whole and the role marketing plays within the larger organization.
Many people with advanced degrees become managers or directors of:
Honesty—be forthright in dealing with customers and stakeholders
Responsibility—accept the consequences of marketing decisions and strategies
Fairness—balance the needs of the buyer with the interests of the seller
Respect—acknowledge the basic human dignity of all stakeholders
Transparency—create a spirit of openness in marketing operations
Citizenship—fulfill the economic, philanthropic, and societal responsibilities that serve stakeholders
Are Online Programs Available?
Yes, you'll find online programs for all degree levels. They can be a great choice for people who need flexibility because they will work while going to school or have family responsibilities to juggle. They're also ideal for students who don't live near campus.
Online programs offer the same education as campus programs but allow you to learn at your convenience—for example, by listening to recorded lectures when time allows. You'll also be able to talk to professionals and interact with your peers online.
Online programs may not be suitable for everyone, however. If you aren't disciplined and organized, you might not thrive in this learning format.
Online programs offer the same education as campus programs but allow you to learn at your convenience—for example, by listening to recorded lectures when time allows.
What Accreditation Is There for My Program?
There are various agencies that accredit business and marketing programs. Accreditation is important because it demonstrates that an institution or program meets prescribed standards for quality education. There are two types of accreditation—one for programs and another for schools.
The three main accrediting agencies for marketing degree programs are:
