This is an overview of online Marketing degrees that are available in the US. Marketing is one of the most in-demand degrees in today's working world. As a result, online marketing degrees are one of the most popular online degree choices. Marketing is also one of the best online degrees to get for careers due to the high salary potential (for Marketing Managers in particular).
For many, it is a degree that will jump start or help them advance their career in the marketing field. While marketing degrees are popular, it can be difficult for students to commit the time and energy into an on-campus program. There are many great schools that provide students the opportunity to earn their Marketing degree online.
Online Marketing degrees have many specialization options available to online students. One increasingly popular option is specializing in a Social Media Marketing degree online. Social Media Marketing is also studied within Digital Marketing degree programs. Digital Marketing targets all manner of marketing in digital media, not limited to only social media.
The three most popular degree levels of Marketing available online are: Associate's, Bachelor's, and Master's.
Online Degrees in Marketing | Overview for Students
Online Associate's Degrees in Marketing
Generally, most associate degree programs in Marketing require at least 60 credits. Associate's programs are great for quickly gaining experience and skills. These degrees are typically two-years in length when taking a full-time course load of twelve credits each semester. Online schools may also provide part-time options for busy or working students, but it will vary depending on the institution.
An associate's degree in Marketing will introduce students to the foundations of the marketing industry. To begin, most programs will start with an Introduction to Marketing course and then progress into more applied coursework. Programs will also provide students with an understanding of accounting, management, and business law.
These classes are important for learning basic business and marketing principles which will help make students more employable after graduation. Marketing-specific coursework includes Social Media Marketing, Applied Marketing Strategies, and Web Page Design. All associate degree programs will also require additional classes in English, Math, and Science.
After earning an Associates in Marketing, graduates can begin working in entry or mid-level positions. On average, professionals with an Associates in Marketing can increase their earnings by up to 20%. Additionally, students can easily transfer into a bachelor's degree program.
Online Bachelor's Degrees in Marketing
A Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Marketing is a degree that will significantly increase a student's ability to land positions throughout the business world. Students with a BBA in Marketing will manage employees, spearhead projects, and promote businesses in unique and important ways.
Most bachelor's degrees require anywhere from 120-130 total credits. Typically, full-time students can complete the degree in four to five years, but it will take longer for part-time students.
Transfer students with a prior associate's degree in Marketing will likely have two or three years of school remaining. Like an associate's degree, bachelor-level programs begin with introductory courses in Marketing, Accounting, and Business, combined with general education classes.
After completing the foundational coursework, students move into upper division classes that cover more specific areas of the Marketing industry. Upper division coursework can include Marketing Research, Business Ethics, and Consumer Behavior. Many programs have internships built into the curriculum, but online programs may provide students additional, unique opportunities to gain experience from the comfort of their home.
Most mid-level Marketing positions require a BBA in Marketing. After earning a bachelor's degree, professionals will be able to begin their career in the industry without additional schooling. In fact, the marketing industry is set to grow 10% in the coming years, allowing for plenty of students to find work and grow in this desirable field.
Online Master's Degrees in Marketing
Professionals hoping to advance their marketing careers or earn a promotion can seek their Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Marketing. Students hoping to pursue their master's in marketing must have a prior bachelor's degree before beginning the program.
Online MBA, Marketing programs are much shorter than a bachelor's program but vary in length. Typically, students can earn their MBA in two years full time, but some programs offer expedited degrees for those looking to quickly finish. It is important to note that "full time" in a master's degree is only 9 credits, versus 12 credits for a bachelor's degree.
An MBA in Marketing will refine a student's skills and knowledge as well as their general understanding of business. Classes include advanced accounting, multiple management courses, and supply chain management. After completing the core classes, students typically choose a handful of electives to complete their program. These elective courses allow students to specialize their degree and include courses like Marketing Research and Brand Management.
Upon earning an MBA in Marketing, professionals can advance into executive level positions and significantly increase their earnings. While the MBA is the most popular graduate degree in the United States, it provides students with significant opportunities they may not have without it.