Online MBA in Marketing

Updated September 25, 2023

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An online MBA in marketing introduces central business ideas while focusing on marketing concepts, such as brand management and marketing campaigns. Graduates possess a business-grounded understanding of how to promote a company, product, or idea.

A marketing MBA can lead to lucrative management positions in diverse industries. For instance advertising, promotions, and marketing managers earn a median annual salary of $132,620, more than double the national average for all occupations. These positions may only require a bachelor's degree. However, a marketing MBA imparts advanced marketing knowledge, helping graduates stand out from the competition. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects an 8% increase in these positions by 2028, indicating growing career opportunities.

This article examines the structure of an online MBA in marketing, as well as career opportunities, scholarships, and accreditation.

Careers in Marketing

Marketing is used to build industry brands, advertise products or services, and reach large bases of consumers. The field's diversity allows marketing MBA graduates to pursue careers in a variety of industries and companies. Degree-holders can build brands for new businesses, create social media campaigns for political entities, or choose marketing strategies for international sales.

A master's may qualify learners for leadership positions in marketing, public relations, and brand management. The BLS projects positions for market research analysts to grow by 20% between 2018 and 2028.

Market Research Analyst

Market research analysts collect and assess consumer information to help businesses make informed decisions about their products or services. Analysts create surveys and questionnaires and review marketing trends to obtain data relating to customer needs and potential pricing. Candidates may need to synthesize their findings for visual or written presentations. This position typically requires at least a bachelor's degree, with some organizations requiring a master's.

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Advertising, Promotions, and Marketing Manager

These managers advise companies on promotional strategies for their products or services. They create campaigns, provide feedback on pricing, and oversee contracts related to promotion. Responsibilities include communication with artists, directors, and financial departments. Managers must also assess the aesthetic and purposeful value of marketing materials. Although these careers usually mandate a bachelor's, earning a marketing MBA can help learners attain advanced positions.

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Survey Researcher

These researchers create surveys for different fields, such as education and healthcare. This process requires determining effective questions and overseeing the survey’s distribution. Research techniques may also include interviews and focus groups. Researchers must assess all findings with relevant software and report findings through visual and written means. These positions often call for a graduate degree related to business, such as an MBA.

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Public Relations Specialist

Public relations specialists help companies build and maintain positive images. They create press releases, speeches, and social media campaigns and advise companies on marketing techniques. Responsibilities include assessing the value of current public relations strategies, speaking on behalf of the company, and scheduling public appearances for representatives. Candidates with solely a bachelor's may earn these positions, but an MBA in marketing indicates more in-depth knowledge of public perception, which may increase employment chances.

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Postsecondary Teacher

Postsecondary teachers create syllabi and oversee classes in higher education settings. These educators may teach in person or online, and typically teach several classes per term. They may also conduct original research for scholarly publications, suggest course materials for their department, and help students choose courses. Some institutions require a doctorate for these positions. However, many schools hire applicants with a master's in the teaching discipline. A marketing MBA qualifies learners to teach higher education marketing courses.

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How to Choose a Program in Marketing

Prospective students should consider several factors when researching potential marketing MBA programs. Factors like specialization and cost, for instance, can determine if a program aligns with an applicant's needs. Students returning after long absences may need more online learning support than candidates continuing their education without interruption. Degree-seekers should research all of these factors before committing to an online MBA in marketing.

  • Ask for information on how lessons are delivered in the program

    Some departments offer fully online degrees in marketing, while others combine online learning with on-campus attendance. Online courses utilizing learning platforms, like Blackboard and Canvas, may also incorporate synchronous or asynchronous delivery. Other factors to consider include internships and team projects. Students should consider all of these elements to ensure the program meets their scheduling and technological needs.
  • Get details on what support is available to students

    Resources for distance learners, such as access to virtual library resources and online tutoring, are commonly offered by schools. Institutions may also provide online mental health assistance through blogs, virtual counseling appointments, or other resources. Schools often include career development centers that deliver online career guidance through job listings, resume reviews, and mock interviews. Candidates may also benefit from virtual meetings with advisors and assistance with internship placement.
  • Estimate your expected program costs

    Program costs include tuition, fees, and textbooks, as well as traveling expenses for on-campus and field components. These expenses vary by institution, with private schools typically charging higher tuition and fees than public schools. In-state learners often pay lower tuition than out-of-state candidates, and online courses may include technological fees.
  • Ensure the school's admission requirements align with your expectations

    While details vary by school, admission requirements for a marketing MBA may involve GRE or GMAT scores, a minimum GPA, and a bachelor's in a related field. Other admission criteria may include work experience, recommendation letters, personal statements, resumes, and essays on provided prompts. Learners should review schools' requirements to determine which programs they qualify for or what steps are needed to qualify for a program of choice.
  • Compare student outcomes data

    Reviewing student outcome data can help applicants assess student satisfaction with the program and determine program quality. For instance, high graduation rates can mean few students transferred or dropped out of the program, which hints at program appreciation. Institutions may also offer information on the median or average income of graduates.
  • Look for partnerships with local businesses and communities

    Local partnerships with businesses and communities may provide students with internships in practical settings. These partnerships can increase learners' professional networks and give students access to training and workshops. Partnerships are particularly helpful if they involve an organization with a strong marketing reputation. These experiences can enhance resumes and increase marketing knowledge, skills, and credentials.
  • Make sure the program is accredited

    Students should only consider schools with regional accreditation. Accrediting agencies review schools and programs and offer accreditation to institutions that meet high academic standards. Top marketing MBA programs may also boast specialized accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, the International Accreditation Council for Business Education, or the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.
  • Speak with current students and alumni

    Nothing can replicate the value of speaking to students and alumni. These conversations can offer information on program pros and cons, such as faculty helpfulness, library quality, advisor accessibility, and on-campus events that relate to marketing. Alumni can comment on how well the marketing MBA prepared them for career success, citing specific examples of when the program helped them make professional decisions.

The Best Online MBA Programs in Marketing

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Marketing Curriculum

Marketing MBA curricula vary by program, with factors like degree type and specialization impacting required coursework. For example, marketing programs may emphasize social media, product marketing, or international marketing. Learners should review degree requirements to ensure coursework aligns with their professional goals. For any program, however, learners will encounter courses in basic marketing ideas, such as the following courses.

Database Marketing

This course introduces students to technological and organizational methods for gathering and storing information on customers. Coursework emphasizes using this information to determine trends, behaviors, and target consumers in order to plan marketing strategies. The data may also inform which products and services to offer, as well as pricing. The course builds problem-solving and decision-making skills, often incorporating data marketing projects and case studies.

Brand Management

Brand management teaches students to create and maintain a brand reflective of their company's vision. Course topics include research, brand auditing, and brand equity. Departments explore the history and future of branding and discuss the technological impact on brand management. The curriculum often includes projects or brand plans that emphasize teamwork, communication, and analytical skills. Other assignments may involve case studies and research papers.

International Marketing

This course examines techniques for connecting with international audiences using global markets and trends. Coursework trains learners to build global marketing plans that reflect legal, economic, social, political, and cultural differences among consumers. Departments may also address how globalization increases competition and how to use technology to engage more consumers. Assignments typically include case studies and group projects related to global companies.

Comparison of Marketing Degrees and Specializations

Students can earn different types of degrees in marketing, including an MBA, a master of science, and a master's in global marketing. These degrees prioritize different concepts relating to specific professions. For instance, the master of science emphasizes research for analytical careers, while the global marketing degree addresses marketing on a worldwide scale for overseeing companies with international reaches.

Degree TypeDescriptionPotential Career Paths
MBA in MarketingA master's degree in marketing prepares graduates to manage marketing teams. Learners take general business classes, including financial management, organizational strategy, and leadership. Courses help marketing professionals understand how their efforts fit with a company's larger goals. Marketing courses round out these specialized degrees. Marketing management jobs, including vice president of marketing.
Master of Science in MarketingThese research-focused degrees help candidates understand the technical side of marketing. Learners take courses such as consumer behavior analysis, marketing analytics, pricing, and consulting. They often include internships, thesis papers, or capstone courses. These classes prepare graduates to conduct market research, interpret the results, and make marketing recommendations based on their findings. Analysis and consulting roles, such as an independent marketing consultant or market research analyst.
Master's in Global MarketingThis master's degree in marketing explores many of the same concepts as other marketing degrees but with an emphasis on international markets. Courses prepare students to account for cultural differences between the regions in which their companies sell products and services. These degrees may focus on management or research. Marketing roles at international companies, which can include top-executive jobs, consulting, or analysis.

Cost and Length of a Marketing Degree

Tuition rates vary by school. Some institutions charge flat-rate tuition by term, while other schools charge per-credit rates. Colleges may also charge rates according to location or status. In particular, non-resident rates often exceed resident costs. Additionally, part-time learners may pay different per-credit rates than full-time students, and institutions may charge course overload fees for candidates who take credit loads over full-time requirements.

Degree-seekers typically must also pay for fees or textbooks. Candidates should ensure they can afford all program expenses. Marketing MBA programs often take two or three years to complete, depending on factors like credit requirements, course load, and term length. Some programs offer accelerated MBA programs, quickening graduation times, while others feature a cohort format which may require students to follow a set, traditional schedule.

Marketing FAQs

What is the salary of a person with an MBA marketing?

Graduates with a marketing MBA make an average of $91,000 per year. This expectation surpasses the Social Security Administration's reported average U.S. income in 2018 by nearly $40,000. However, a degree in marketing does not guarantee a particular salary, as income varies by location, industry, and experience.

What are the subjects in an MBA marketing degree?

The curriculum for an online MBA in marketing typically addresses financial concepts, like negotiation and pricing, and consumer behavior. Learners explore brand strategies, organizational structures, legal concerns, and technology for global corporations. Programs may also emphasize research, marketing ethics, and supply chain management.

What can you do with a degree in marketing?

Professional options for a degree in marketing include careers in public relations, marketing, and brand management. Graduates may work in data analysis and research or as marketing directors or advertising managers.

Marketing Scholarships

AfterCollege Business Student Scholarship

Undergraduate and graduate students in business-related programs with a minimum 3.0 GPA qualify for this scholarship. Candidates must also hold AfterCollege.com membership and U.S. residency. Applications should include a personal statement and information on education, work history, awards, and skill sets.

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Lead Roster B2B Sales & Marketing Scholarship

Ideal applicants plan to pursue education or careers related to marketing or sales. Candidates must create a video, marketing themselves as the best scholarship recipient. The organization may give preference to applicants in programs related to marketing, business, communications, or computer science. This scholarship is worth $1,000.

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Scholarship for the Advancement of Women in Sports and Entertainment

Beginning graduate students may qualify for this award, provided they are female and study journalism, communication, media studies, public relations, or marketing. Additional criteria include full-time status, a minimum 2.75 GPA, and career goals related to entertainment or sports. Eight recipients receive $1,000.

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International Foodservice Editorial Council Communications Scholarship

Graduate students pursuing careers related to public relations in food service may apply. Acceptable majors include marketing, nutrition, photojournalism, and hospitality management. Funding is based on academic merit, financial concerns, and writing skills. The application requires an essay.

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Majux Scholarship for Marketing Students

Full-time business and marketing higher education students with a minimum 3.0 GPA can apply. Applicants must submit an essay detailing a marketing campaign related to e-commerce, based on a budget. This scholarship is worth $1,000.

Apply for Scholarship

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