Doctorate in Marketing Program Guide

By
portrait of Doug Wintemute
Doug Wintemute
Read Full Bio

Writer

Doug Wintemute is a writer who focuses on higher learning and entertainment. Since 2014, he has contributed to content and editorial work for award-winning publications. He completed his BA and MA in English at York University, graduating summa cum l...
Updated on August 15, 2023
Learn more about our editorial process

www.bestcolleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Turn Your Dreams Into Reality

Take our quiz and we'll do the homework for you! Compare your school matches and apply to your top choice today.

As the terminal degree in the field, a doctorate in marketing leads to an array of careers. Graduates can pursue positions in academia, teaching future generations of marketing professionals, or in business, helping organizations reach their customers and meet their full potential.

Between 2019 and 2029, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects most marketing-related management and analyst roles to grow faster than the average rate for all occupations. These roles also tend to pay high wages. Doctorate-holders possess the advanced skills and credentials needed to take advantage of this growing field.

In this guide, we explore online doctoral programs in marketing in detail, including curriculum specifics, things for prospective students to look for, and potential career pathways.

Should I Get a Doctorate in Marketing?

Pursuing a doctorate in marketing requires a big commitment. The degree can take between 3-7 years to complete and features a great deal of research and work. Professional opportunity awaits graduates, however, with the BLS projecting 7% job growth for marketing managers, 9% growth for public relations managers, and 18% growth for market research analysts between 2019 and 2029.

Professional opportunity, however, does await graduates, with the BLS projecting 7% job growth for marketing managers, 9% growth for public relations managers, and 18% growth for market research analysis between 2019 and 2029.

Quotation mark

While graduate degrees in marketing can lead to significant employment opportunities and financial rewards, these programs can be challenging. Since many employers still value professional experience, students often work while they study, which means a very busy schedule for an extended period of time.

To keep their skills updated, marketing professionals and postsecondary teachers may need to continue their training after graduation. Some employers may even want to see additional credentials, such as vendor-specific marketing certifications. As a result, prospective students should be willing and prepared to continue their education long into their professional careers.

What Can I Expect from a Doctorate in Marketing Program?

Prospective students can choose between two major tracks for their doctorate in marketing: a Ph.D. and a doctorate in business administration (DBA). The research and theoretical emphasis of a Ph.D. typically leads to academic and research careers, whereas the business and practical focus of the DBA prepares graduates for business-related careers.

In a Ph.D. program, students choose their own research topics and the courses that complement that exploration. DBA programs, conversely, feature more rigid curricula, including courses like strategic management, marketing promotions, B2B marketing, and marketing innovation. Both degree pathways provide advanced research, writing, and management skills, along with concentration options for students to further specialize.

Concentrations

Marketing Analytics

Chevron Down

Marketing analytics concentrations teach students to use data to make more informed business decisions. Learners explore modern analytical tools, statistical models, social media analysis, and pricing strategies.

Consumer Behavior

Chevron Down

Consumer behavior concentrations examine the many factors that go into consumer buying decisions. Learners look at the ways consumer behaviors influence purchasing and how they depend on marketing forces.

Quantitative Marketing

Chevron Down

Quantitative marketing uses statistics and numerical representations to create effective marketing strategies. This specialization may cover consumer behavior, econometrics, resource allocation, and product development strategies.

International Marketing

Chevron Down

International marketing concentrations examine the varying processes and strategies used by marketing professionals around the world. Students learn how differences in culture, laws, politics, and economies impact buying behaviors and marketing campaigns.

Sustainable Marketing

Chevron Down

Sustainable marketing concentrations teach students about the sustainable market and how marketing language, strategies, and campaigns adapt to this sector. Students learn about environmental concerns, sustainable consumer behavior, and how to forge trust and relationships in this environment.

Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Programs

How to Choose a Marketing Doctorate Program

Prospective marketing students should consider several factors, including their own educational and career goals. Some other important considerations include accreditation, degree type, concentrations, and practical components. For an online doctorate in marketing, applicants should think about program delivery, schedules, and residency requirements.

Programmatic Accreditation for Doctorate in Marketing Programs

Prospective students should always verify their school holds regional accreditation prior to enrolling. Business-related programs may also receive programmatic accreditation from various organizations, such as the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business or Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. Accreditation can help ensure that students qualify for financial aid, employment, transfer credits, and future certifications.

How to Get Into a Marketing Doctorate Program

Admission requirements for a doctorate in marketing vary by school and program, but prospective students typically need a marketing-related master's degree and recommendation letters. Some schools require GMAT or GRE scores, and some competitive programs require a 3.0 undergraduate GPA.

Additionally, prospective DBA students may need relevant professional experience. Prospective Ph.D. students, conversely, may need to submit a research proposal or a statement of interest. Some programs also require interviews.

What Can I Do With a Doctorate in Marketing?

Professionals with a doctorate in marketing can pursue careers in business, management, research and development, and academia. Graduates can pass their knowledge on in college and university classrooms, influence marketing practices with their research, and help organizations reach their customers in new ways and places.

Graduates gain specialized skills and advanced knowledge that position them to take advantage of a growing field with exceptional salary potential. For example, the BLS projects the addition of more than 500,000 management occupations between 2019 and 2029, a sector that pays median annual wages of nearly $110,000.

The list below highlights common career paths available to graduates.

Popular Career Paths

How Much Money Can I Make With a Doctorate in Marketing?

While professionals with a doctorate in marketing can expect strong salaries, wages vary considerably by field, location, and employer. According to the BLS, postsecondary business teachers make a median annual wage of $88,010, whereas marketing managers make a median annual wage of $141,090.

Certifications and Licenses a Doctorate in Marketing Prepares For

Digital Marketing Expert

Chevron Down

This dual certification from the Digital Marketing Institute and American Marketing Association recognizes leaders in digital marketing with advanced skills and training. The credential demonstrates leadership and knowledge of online marketing and e-commerce strategies. Candidates usually need a combination of marketing education and experience.

Microsoft Advertising Certification

Chevron Down

The Microsoft Advertising certification demonstrates the ability to effectively manage a Microsoft Advertising campaign, a major benefit for employers using this platform. Applicants need Microsoft memberships to take the exam and become certified.

Google Marketing Certifications

Chevron Down

Google offers certifications in Google Ads and Google Analytics. Certified individuals demonstrate their expertise in these platforms and ability to manage projects using them. Applicants need a Skillshop account to take the examinations.

OMCP Digital Marketing Certification

Chevron Down

The Online Marketing Certified Professional (OMCP) offers a digital marketing certification for experienced marketing professionals. This credential demonstrates advanced digital marketing skills and knowledge and may lead to specialized work opportunities and higher earnings. Applicants need a marketing degree and at least 2,000 hours of experience to qualify.

Postgraduate Certification in Digital Marketing

Chevron Down

The Digital Marketing Institute offers this credential to aspiring digital marketing leaders. The credential demonstrates to employers a grasp of advanced digital marketing concepts and strategies and the ability to manage digital marketing campaigns. Applicants typically need marketing training and experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Doctorate in Marketing Programs

How much does it cost to get a doctorate in marketing?

Chevron Down

The cost of a doctorate in marketing depends on the school and program, but most programs cost $32,000-$66,000 according to U.S. News & World Report. The average credit in these programs costs $595-$1,095.

Is a doctorate in marketing worth it?

Chevron Down

Each student needs to decide the value of a doctorate in marketing for themselves. However, these programs open the door to some of the most desirable and financially rewarding careers in business, along with teaching and research positions. Prospective students can determine return on investment by comparing their pre-doctoral degree and post-doctoral degree salaries.

How do you get into a marketing Ph.D. program?

Chevron Down

Getting into a doctorate in marketing Ph.D. program typically requires a master's degree in a related discipline, GMAT or GRE scores, and letters of recommendation. Additionally, some Ph.D. programs require prospective students to submit letters of interest or research proposals to discuss their research interests and career goals.

Can I do a Ph.D. after an MBA in marketing?

Chevron Down

While MBA graduates can pursue a Ph.D in marketing, a DBA is the most common pathway. Since a Ph.D. focuses on research and theoretical components of the field, a DBA is more relevant after the practical training of an MBA.

What is the difference between a doctorate in marketing and a doctorate in advertising?

Chevron Down

While many use the terms marketing and advertising interchangeably, degrees in this field typically differ in focus and the careers to which they lead. Marketing programs explore all aspects of buying and selling, including market research, buying behavior, and organizational branding alignment. Advertising, conversely, focuses more on promotional strategies and branding communications.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Compare Your School Options

View the most relevant schools for your interests and compare them by tuition, programs, acceptance rate, and other factors important to finding your college home.