Key takeaways
- Marketing is all about understanding what the consumers need and matching them with the best products.
- Marketing is an art and science of communicating with your target audience to build brand awareness and image.
- A marketing degree focuses on equipping students with essential marketing skills such as public speaking, communication, and market analysis.
- Many schools offer marketing as a specialization within business administration degrees.
- You must look into various factors before selecting a college for a marketing degree. Factors include accreditations, faculty expertise, and college life
- There is also an option to pursue a degree in marketing online.
- Alternative marketing degrees include BBA, PR bachelors, data analysis degrees, and entrepreneurship majors.
- The top marketing colleges include the University of Minnesota, the University of Wisconsin, and the University of Arizona.
The marketing process has significantly refined in the past decade, and ever since there have been some groundbreaking advancements in technology. So, with the inclusion of AI, social media, and digital platforms in people’s lives, marketing has taken new shapes and forms. As a result, more and more young people are enticed and excited to learn the newly evolved art of marketing.
This is why a bachelor’s marketing degree is a go-to choice for many young and adult students. This degree is not only one of the most common college majors in the US, but also the most rewarding. So, you can expect to enjoy some amazing career outlooks and a diverse pool of jobs with a marketing degree.
However, before you make your mind about pursuing a degree in marketing, you must explore the various details and intricacies involved. To get you started, here is a guide that provides information regarding marketing degrees, top colleges for marketing, careers with a marketing degree, and so much more. By the end of this guide, we hope that you can decide whether a marketing degree is worth it for you.
What is a marketing degree?
To begin with, let’s first understand what a marketing degree is and what it entails. Firstly, a marketing degree is a bachelor’s program offered by colleges in the US. This degree spans over a period of 4 years, typically requiring over 120 credit hours. Different programs from different colleges offer a variety of coursework, however, the foundational aspects remain the same.
So, a marketing degree is primarily focused on teaching students the art of marketing, which is to sell a product with discreet messaging and communication. Moreover, marketing aims to attract the right customers to the right products. It does this by creating perceived value in a product, creating a brand image, and increasing the brand awareness for existing products.
Furthermore, marketing degrees are intensely focused on relying on research and surveys to create marketing plans. The use of research and relevant tools prepares students for real-world applications. Additionally, some of the core learning outcomes of a marketing degree include:
- Understanding customer needs
- Identifying the right audience for the right product
- Marketing analysis tools and strategies
- Understanding of marketing mix
- Develop, implement, and monitor marketing campaigns
- Creating brand value and equity
With these skills, there are numerous types of jobs that you may become eligible for. We discuss the career options with a marketing degree later in the article.
Core courses in a marketing degree
At the core of every college degree is its coursework. So, you must not overlook the importance of a solid coursework or program outline if you wish to make the most out of this degree.
Firstly, a marketing degree includes numerous types of milestones and objectives that can be achieved through various teaching methods. Typically, the following is included in the coursework on marketing degrees:
- Thesis, capstone project, or final report
- Brand development projects
- Project-based assignments
- Written assignments
- Examinations
- Quizzes
- Attendance of guest lectures
- Field trips
- Case studies
Furthermore, there are several types of courses or classes you must attend. These may be foundational to core courses, or electives that you choose to pursue. These include, but are not limited to:
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Specializations in a marketing degree
Just like any other college major, there is an option to choose a specialization in the marketing degree as well. In some colleges, marketing is offered as a specialization within a business administration degree. However, if you wish to opt for a core marketing degree and then specialize within, then you must keep reading this guide.
Ever since the addition of technology, internet, and digital media in our lives, the marketing landscape has truly evolved. You may wish to explore numerous specializations within the marketing degree, but the most popular these days is digital marketing. This is an umbrella term for all types of marketing done on, through, and for digital media, including websites, search engines, social media, and so on.
So, let’s dive deep into the specifics of marketing degree specializations:
Digital marketing degree
Some of the most common topics included in the digital marketing degree specialization are:
- Email marketing
- Social media marketing
- Search engine optimization
- Web analytics
- Mobile marketing
- Paid advertising
- Online consumer behavior and insights
Overall, a digital marketing specialization is hyperfocus on building core skills needed for the advancing technological platforms.
Consumer behavior
A huge part of the marketing world is consumer behavior. This is the psychology, behaviors, and choices that consumers make and the way they interact with specific brands and their products. As marketers specializing in this field, you develop a knack for understanding consumer behavior in a way that it benefits your marketing strategy.
Branding
Brands are the voice and image of a product. Today’s competitive market dynamics require companies to create a unique and individualistic identity. So, marketers specializing in branding use their skills to create a brand image, brand recall, brand equity, and develop brand value in the consumer’s eyes.
Public relations
For a career in public relations, you can also explore a bachelor degree in PR from the top colleges. This is one of the most refined areas of specialization, as PR has been around since centuries now. PR degrees typically teach you the important skills to become the mediator or spokesperson for a brand.
Interdisciplinary marketing
Marketing is one of the core functions of any business organization. Therefore, it does not operate in isolation. Hence, you may wish to explore the interdisciplinary nature of marketing and see how it connects with disciplines like economics, psychology, and sociology. You may also want to explore the entrepreneurial side of marketing.
Requirements for a marketing degree
Moving on, you must be fully aware of the requirements for enrolling and graduating with a marketing degree. So, let’s dig in:
Admission requirements:
- A high school diploma or equivalent (GED).
- Standardized Test Scores: SAT or ACT (optional at some schools).
- Application Form: Includes transcripts, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
- GPA Requirement: Most programs prefer a minimum high school GPA of 2.5–3.0.
- TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent scores for international students
Graduation requirements:
- Completion of general education courses (e.g., English, math, history).
- Core marketing courses like Principles of Marketing, Consumer Behavior, and Digital Marketing.
- 120–130 credit hours
- internships in marketing, advertising, or related fields for hands-on experience.
- Maintenance of minimum CGPA.
What are the alternatives to a marketing degree?
During this important stage of your college planning, it is crucial that you leave no stone unturned. So, exploring all the various options and alternatives may be a good way of ensuring that you make an informed decision regarding what college majors you choose.
Some of the most notable alternatives to a marketing degree can allow you to enjoy the perks of amazing career paths. So, here are some of them you might want to know about:
A business degree or BBA
BBA is a more commonly used acronym for a popular college degree called Bachelors in Business Administration. This is also a 4-year undergraduate program that focuses on building business acumen in the students. However, it offers students to pick a specialization such as marketing, finance, HRM, or supply chain. This is the ideal combination for a business marketing degree.
Furthermore, there are other business-focused degrees such as an entrepreneurship bachelor’s program. This degree is ideal for marketing enthusiasts who wish to be business leaders.
A communications degree
“Communications” is a broad term that covers numerous topics and sub-fields such as public relations, advertising, and design. There are numerous degrees you can opt for. However, the ideal communications degree may be in advertising, PR, and graphic design.
A social or behavioral sciences degree
Social or behavioral sciences degrees are ideal for studying, analyzing, and understanding human behaviors. As discussed earlier as well, consumer behaviors are a core part of marketing. Therefore, a relevant degree in sociology or any other related field will allow you to build important skills.
Data analysis degrees
Data is all the rage these days. With more and more advancements in technology, data is becoming a huge part of every marketing plan. Therefore, having core skills related to data mining, management, and analysis is important for a successful marketing strategy. A data analysis degree helps you align with decision-making roles in marketing,
What colleges offer a degree in marketing?
A degree from the top marketing college will allow you to develop real-world applications and skills. However, it is difficult to find the ideal college program that aligns with your career goals and aspirations. There are several best colleges for marketing degrees, so you might find yourself confused.
To help you get started, here is a list of the most important factors you need to consider when choosing a college for a marketing degree:
- College accreditations that validate the college’s reputation and education standard
- Faculty expertise and professionalism
- Alumni reputation and career accomplishments
- Cost of attendance and financial aid options
- Campus location and overall college facilities
Now, let’s look at the list of good colleges for marketing degree:
University of Minnesota – Twin Cities (Minneapolis, MN)
The University of Minnesota – Twin Cities offers a marketing undergraduate major through its Carlson School of Management. The program is focused on creating high-value communication skills that are indispensable in the marketing world. Moreover, the degree is a 4-year program that takes students through core and foundational courses as well such, in subjects like economics and supply chain.
University of Wisconsin-Madison (Madison, WI)
Through its Wisconsin School of Business, the University of Wisconsin offers an underrated marketing degree. The program develops skills and knowledge in core marketing concepts such as segmentation, targeting, and positioning. Moreover, the college partners with numerous companies to create employment opportunities for its students. Furthermore, if you are interested in learning modern-day marketing with a focus on data analytics, then this is the right degree for you.
Miami University (Oxford, OH)
At Miami University, you can simply opt for the bachelors of science in marketing. This degree is meant to develop technical and real-world applicable skills. It is known for its thorough program coursework that allows hands-on learning experiences. Moreover, some of the most common career outcomes of this degree are job roles like marketing manager, as well as self-starter entrepreneurship roles.
University of Arizona (Tucson, AZ)
For the most accessible yet reputable college for a degree in marketing, opt for the University of Arizona. This program is ideal for anyone interested in building a career in sales and marketing. It offers unique focus areas such as communications, consumer behavior, and entrepreneurship. Moreover, the degree prepares students for professional world challenges by equipping them with important skills such as data analytics.
Michigan State University (East Lansing, MI)
The marketing major at Michigan State University is part of the business administration program. Particularly, this program aims to develop business acumen and entrepreneurial skills in the students. Therefore, it is very interdisciplinary. Moreover, the degree has enabled its alumni to work at prestigious jobs such as marketing directors in industries like journalism and even automobiles.
Can you get an online marketing degree?
According to several reports, online education, also referred to as distance learning, is becoming increasingly popular. So, if you are working full-time somewhere, or reside in a remote location, or have any other types of constraints – then an online marketing degree is an ideal option for you. Firstly, online marketing degrees are offered by popular and accredited colleges, so finding the right program will not be difficult. Secondly, online degrees in marketing are just as rewarding and respectable in the job market. Therefore, finding relevant marketing degree jobs will not be difficult with an online degree.
Thirdly, the coursework for online marketing degrees is going to be the same as any other conventional or on-campus program. However, the methodology or platforms can avry, with some core differences between online and on-campus degree being:
- On-campus degrees have more in-person interactions and collaborative learning
- Online degrees are self-paced, while on-campus ones are less flexible
- Online assignments and the use of digital tools is more common in online marketing degrees
- On campus degrees allow more interaction between students and teachers
- Online marketing degrees may be slightly cheaper due to reduced price of housing or other expenses
Overall, online marketing degrees are practical and definitely a fair choice. You must look into some considerations such as college accreditations before enrolling. To help you get started, we have the following list of online marketing management degrees and colleges you can explore:
- University of Arizona – B.S. in Marketing
- Southern New Hampshire University – B.A. in Marketing
- Liberty University – B.S. in Business Administration – Marketing
- University of Florida (UF Online) – Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a specialization in Marketing
- Purdue University Global – B.S. in Marketing
What is a social media marketing degree?
Ultimately, the goal of any marketing strategy, plan, or any type of marketing effort is to create a brand image and increase its visibility in the consumer market. Therefore, the major difference between social media marketing and traditional marketing is the platform or mediums used. Essentially, both types of marketing efforts are eager towards the same goals – to increase brand awareness and provide consumers a suitable solution.
As a result, a social media marketing degree is also focused on creating brand awareness and visibility on digital platforms, particularly social media. Furthermore, a social media marketing degree is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively use social media platforms as marketing tools. Moreover, it integrates core marketing principles with digital media, technology, and communication strategies.
In addition to this, the type of marketing degree you get dictates the career paths and variety available to you. So, the following skills will help you find relevant jobs in this field:
- Content creation
- Social media strategy
- Graphic design
- Social media insights and algorithms
- Digital tools like Hootsuite
- Reputation management
- Public relations
Some of the key areas in a social media marketing degree are:
- Strategy
- Advertising
- Social media metrics
- Influencer marketing
- Social collaborations
- Social media accounts handling
What can you do with a marketing degree?
Moving on, we have discovered a lot about a marketing degree, what it entails, requires, and how to choose the best colleges. Now, we must look over the numerous career paths offered by a degree in marketing. Here is a list of the most common marketing degree jobs:
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How much do marketing majors make out of college?
Ultimately, every college student is looking for ways to earn a living that resonates with them and is fulfilling. By getting a college degree in marketing, you open the gates to many well-paying jobs and career outlooks. However, the pay scale can vary depending on numerous factors such as:
- Employer type
- Industry size
- Company size
- Experience level
- Location
On the other hand, there are numerous reports and surveys that tell us about the recent trends in the marketing degree jobs market. Particularly, BLS reports the following:
- The median annual pay for marketing and advertising professionals in 2023 was $156,580 per year
- There are decent entry-level marketing jobs that require only a bachelor’s degree
- The job growth from 2023 to 2033 is projected to be 8%
- California has the highest employment opportunities for marketing managers jobs, with the highest average annual pay as well
- The highest number of marketing managers is in New York
In conclusion, the best marketing degree jobs can be found in metropolitan areas of California and New York. The job growth rate as projected by BLS is higher than the rate for all other types of jobs. Therefore, a marketing degree from a reputable college is the most future-proof decision to make right now.
Get a worthy marketing degree!
In conclusion, a marketing degree from college is truly rewarding if you make an informed decision. Firstly, make sure you choose the ideal college by considering important factors such as college reputation. Secondly, look into the various degree options and alternatives to marketing majors, such as PR bachelors, an entrepreneurship bachelors, or a business-centered discipline. Lastly, online degrees are also an excellent choice for different types of students. In the end, do not forget to use essay solutions and college advice provided by the experts at All Bachelor Degrees!