Best Online Marketing Degrees
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An online bachelor's in marketing program teaches you to analyze market trends to develop, promote, sell, and distribute services and goods to diverse consumers. You can pursue many employment opportunities in this field, and this guide details relevant entry-level careers and advancement options.
Earning a bachelor's in marketing can prepare you for careers across the for-profit and nonprofit sectors. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that business and financial occupations will grow by 8% from 2020-2030, adding roughly 750,800 new jobs to the U.S. economy. Entry-level opportunities include market research analyst and event planner.
Undergraduate credentials also prepare you for success in master's and doctoral programs. Graduate training is particularly useful if you want to occupy leadership or postsecondary teaching positions.
What Can I Expect From an Online Bachelor's in Marketing Program?
Marketing professionals benefit from curiosity, adaptability, and creativity, as well as strong communication, artistic, and sales skills. Observation and listening skills, and a collaborative, decisive personality are also useful to marketing professionals.
Most online bachelor's degrees in marketing require between 120 and 128 credits to graduate. Most full-time students can complete a bachelor's in marketing in four years. Accelerated programs or summer semesters can help students complete the degree faster. Some bachelor's degrees in business or commerce also give students the option to earn a concentration in marketing.
Popular Online Marketing Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Marketing degree specializations include:
- Digital marketing
- Social media management
- Brand management
- Business management
- International marketing
- Business psychology
- Luxury brand management
- Packaging and brand design
- Sports marketing
Increasingly, marketing professionals choose to specialize in one digital marketing area such as SEO, analytics, or social media management. Other options include email marketing or content management.
A bachelor's in business administration (BBA) is the most common bachelor's in marketing. Students can also choose a bachelor of science (BS) or bachelor of arts (BA) in marketing. The curriculum for BBA, BS, and BA degrees are similar. The BA and BBA focus on all aspects of business. The BS usually emphasizes data, analytics, and applied analysis.
Best Online Marketing Degrees
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University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Little Rock, AR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $280
Out of State | $280
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | Yes
Program Accreditation | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
UA Little Rock's bachelor's in marketing program offers a digital marketing emphasis. Learners complete the 120-credit program fully online. The curriculum covers advertising to businesses and consumers. Enrollees also learn how to build and manage relationships.
Courses follow a 17-week format and include topics in analytics tools, consumer analysis and behavior, and social media marketing strategy. Graduates may work in advertising, marketing, or professional sales. Applicants need a 2.25 GPA.
Franklin University
Columbus, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $398
Out of State | $398
Credits to Graduate
124
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | Yes
Program Accreditation | International Accreditation Council for Business Education
Franklin's online bachelor's in marketing program covers topics like digital advertising, marketing strategy, and market research. Learners can choose electives such as customer relationship management, global marketing, and social media marketing. Students can also complete a marketing internship.
Courses run in six- and 12-week formats. Students can transfer up to 76% of the degree's total credits. Applicants need a high school or GED diploma. Transfer students must submit transcripts from all schools attended.
Brenau University
Gainesville, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $690
Out of State | $690
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | Yes
Program Accreditation | Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
Students pursuing Brenau's online bachelor's in marketing degree learn how to create persuasive marketing plans and choose profitable target markets. Online learners can access academic coaching, tutoring, and math and writing help.
Marketing courses cover advertising management, consumer behavior, and marketing research. Degree-seekers also study social media and mobile marketing.
Applicants need a 2.5 GPA. Transfer students can apply up to 65 credits toward their degree.
McKendree University
Lebanon, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $400
Out of State | $400
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | Yes
Program Accreditation | International Accreditation Council for Business Education
McKendree's bachelor's in marketing program prepares graduates for the workplace or entry into an MBA program. Coursework focuses on customer satisfaction and emphasizes communication. Learners develop critical thinking skills they can apply in their careers.
Eight-week sessions cover topics such as consumer behavior and principles of marketing. Students complete a capstone in business strategy and policy. Applicants submit a high school or GED diploma. Transfer students need a 2.0 GPA.
New Mexico State University-Main Campus
Las Cruces, NM - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $380
Out of State | $380
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | Yes
Program Accreditation | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Students can complete NMSU's bachelor's in marketing degree online with an optional concentration in PGA golf management. Marketing courses focus on customer needs. Learners explore global marketing, marketing management, and retail management. Degree-seekers complete an entrepreneurship independent study. Some general education courses follow an eight-week accelerated format.
First-year students need a 2.75 GPA. NMSU also considers applicants with a 21 ACT score or a 1060 SAT score. Students who rank in the top 20% of their class may also apply. Transfer students need 24 credits and a 2.0 GPA.
Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $263
Out of State | $782
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | Yes
Program Accreditation | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
FAU's online bachelor's in marketing program emphasizes customer relations through advertising, brand communication, and social media outreach. Marketing electives cover topics like international marketing, promotional management, and strategies in business markets.
First-year students must complete prerequisites. Transfer students need a 2.5 GPA. Students need 60 credits to declare an online marketing major. They also must complete FAU's foreign language requirement and earn at least a 2.5 GPA in pre-business foundation courses.
Minot State University
Minot, ND - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $340
Out of State | $340
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | Yes
Program Accreditation | International Accreditation Council for Business Education
MSU's bachelor's in marketing online program emphasizes data marketing techniques. Learners develop sales, advertising, and public relations skills. Degree-seekers complete advanced coursework that covers topics such as applied business research and consumer behavior. Online learners can participate in an internship program.
First-year students need a 2.75 GPA. They must also show completion of high school core courses and submit a statement of intent. Students transferring fewer than 24 credits submit ACT or SAT scores.
University of West Alabama
Livingston, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $325
Out of State | $325
Credits to Graduate
123
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | Yes
Program Accreditation | Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
UWA offers an online bachelor's in marketing degree that can help graduates advance their careers or gain entry into MBA programs. The curriculum offers eight-week courses in topics like entrepreneurship, retail management, and personal selling. Enrollees can complete a marketing internship.
Applicants submit high school or GED transcripts. Transfer students from two-year colleges may apply up to 60 credits toward their bachelor's degree. Students transferring from four-year schools can transfer up to 90 credits.
Maryville University of Saint Louis
Saint Louis, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $500
Out of State | $500
Credits to Graduate
128
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | Yes
Program Accreditation | Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
Maryville's online bachelor's in marketing program combines coursework in traditional business principles with new marketing concepts. Coursework covers branding and services marketing. Learners also study marketing and digital media. Students can participate in internships with faculty permission.
First-year students need a 2.5 high school GPA. Transfer students need a 2.0 GPA and can apply up to 68 credits.
University of Louisiana at Monroe
Monroe, LA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $400
Out of State | $400
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | Yes
Program Accreditation | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
ULM offers an online bachelor's in marketing degree that prepares graduates for careers in fields like advertising, brand management, and consumer relations. Courses run in eight-week blocks. Students can accelerate their learning to graduate sooner.
First-year students submit high school transcripts showing a 2.35 GPA. ULM also requires SAT or ACT scores. Transfer students need a C or higher in previous college coursework in English and math.
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What Courses Will I Take in an Online Bachelor's in Marketing Program?
Legal Environment of Business
This foundational class examines the nature of the U.S. legal system. Coursework emphasizes contracts, government agencies, organizational structure, and commercial law. Students learn about federal business regulations and the constitutional limitations placed on government agencies. In addition, they delve into professional decision-making processes and collateral ethical issues.
Strategic Management
Another part of the business core, this course teaches students to recruit, motivate, and lead multidisciplinary marketing teams. Participants also examine management skills related to formulating and implementing strategies that improve organizational effectiveness. Strategic management training prepares learners for a capstone experience where students usually develop a detailed business plan or analyze contemporary policies.
Marketing Analytics
This course explores how to translate marketing data into useful information that helps businesses develop programs, train employees, and make organizational decisions. Topics include user-friendly tools and software, as well as advertising targeting and optimization. Depending on the nature of the bachelor's program, this class may also cover big data concepts.
Consumer Behavior
Students develop quantitative and qualitative analysis skills to predict and evaluate the role consumers play within the global market. Through class studies, participants examine the common perceptions, motivations, and lifestyles that contribute to a consumer's decision-making process. Additional topics include the religious, ethnic, and geographic factors that affect the relationship between companies and consumers.
Digital Marketing
Bachelor's in marketing programs usually offer this course as an advanced elective or part of a degree concentration. Topics include social media, search engine optimization, web development analysis, and content marketing. Students also learn how automated and curated digital strategies can be integrated into a firm's overall marketing campaign.
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What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Marketing Degree?
Admission requirements for an online bachelor's in marketing adhere to similar standards as on-campus programs. Many programs require a minimum high school GPA. Some programs ask for relevant work experience or completion of specific college-level courses like algebra. Students should check individual program requirements as some programs waive standardized test requirements for online students.
Application
All online programs require students to submit an application for acceptance. Online and on-campus applications are generally similar and ask for basic information from prospective students like their name, date of birth, and high school graduation date. Many online programs have many start dates per year or rolling admissions, so online students don't need to meet specific deadlines.
Test Scores
Higher education institutions increasingly do not require standardized testing, opting instead for a more holistic student evaluation process. However, many online schools still require you to submit recent ACT or SAT scores. Minimum requirements vary, so confirm details with a school's admissions office. Some schools grant test exemptions to students who display an exceptionally high GPA.
Letters of Recommendation
Online bachelor's degree programs in marketing may request 1-3 letters of recommendation from applicants. If a school requests letters of recommendation, prospective students should ask someone who can showcase their relevant skills and strengths. Common recommenders include teachers, counselors, mentors, and employers.
Essays
Sometimes called a statement of purpose, a personal essay allows you to stand out from other applicants by explaining your academic history, research interests, and professional objectives. Online bachelor's in marketing programs may ask you to submit a 2- to 3-page statement based on a general prompt. Alternatively, they may require you to respond to a series of short essay questions.
Official Transcripts
Most online bachelor's in marketing programs require official transcripts. Some programs ask for transcripts but don't state a minimum GPA requirement. Those that do ask for a minimum GPA usually require a 2.25-2.75 GPA for online marketing degrees. Many programs allow transfer credits from accredited colleges and accept a lower college GPA.
What Can I Do With an Online Bachelor's in Marketing Degree?
Career Outlook
With a bachelor's in marketing, you can work in entry-level public relations and advertising positions. The BLS projects that public relations specialists will undergo 11% occupational growth from 2020-2030. Alternatively, by focusing on supply chain and operations management, you can pursue a logistics career to help companies coordinate and distribute their goods.
Exciting opportunities are also available in data analytics. The BLS projects market research analyst positions will expand by 22% from 2020-2030 — a percentage that translates to more than 163,000 new jobs. By earning work experience or a graduate degree, you may also access leadership roles, such as marketing director and sales manager.
See where a bachelor's in marketing degree can take you.
Career Paths
Public Relations Specialist
Public relations specialists market a brand or company by creating a positive public image for the companies they represent. These professionals work for companies of all sizes, as well as nonprofits, schools, and government agencies. Responsibilities include evaluating public opinion, creating press releases, and managing social media. They may also prepare speeches and build brand presence.
Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $62,800
Market Research Analyst
Market research analysts use data to study market conditions and product performance. These professionals convert complex data into actionable information to guide company decision-making. By providing insight into market trends, analysts work to increase a company's market share and drive growth.
Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $63,920
Advertising Manager
Advertising or marketing managers plan and oversee program implementation to generate interest in a product or service. These professionals plan advertising campaigns, negotiate advertising contracts, and coordinate advertising budgets and objectives with department heads. Advertising managers often oversee a marketing or creative team.
Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $133,380
Social Media Specialist
Social media specialists manage client's social media accounts, often with set objectives for engagement or account growth. These professionals develop and implement marketing, customer care, and engagement strategies through diverse social media platforms to build a client's public image and grow the brand.
Average Annual Salary (as of June 2022): $46,940
Marketing Copywriter
Advertising and marketing copywriters produce written content for marketing campaigns. These professionals are skilled at both short ad copy for social media or magazines, and long-form ad copy. Responsibilities may include writing blog posts, press releases, shareholder reports, and advertising copy for newspapers, magazines, or broadcasts.
Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $69,510
Marketing Not For You? Check Out These Related Careers.
Continuing Education
A marketing bachelor's degree is a common degree for students interested in marketing or business careers. Graduates with a bachelor's degree in marketing can pursue an MBA in marketing or a master's degree in economics, finance, or related fields. Students may also go on to pursue a doctorate in marketing.
Marketing graduates can also consider digital marketing bootcamps or a graduate marketing certificate to build professional credentials. They can also earn a digital marketing certificate and a content marketing certification. University-affiliated digital marketing bootcamps or self-paced digital marketing bootcamps for working professionals provide more education options.
How Do I Choose an Online Bachelor's in Marketing Program?
Cost
Most bachelor's in marketing degrees feature similar on-campus and online program costs. Total costs vary widely by programs. Tuition for some top online marketing bachelor's degrees ranges from $280 to $720 per credit. In-state tuition is usually less at public institutions. In addition, online students often benefit from lower total program costs because of savings on transportation and housing costs.
Program Format
Most online marketing bachelor's degrees feature a flexible asynchronous schedule. In some programs, students can choose between synchronous and asynchronous programs. Students can take most online marketing degrees full time or part time. These programs often accept transfer credits from accredited colleges. Some top online schools have accelerated bachelor's degrees so students can finish a degree faster.
Location
Location can still be a deciding factor for online students. Many colleges allow online students to access on-campus resources, like the library or student services. Nearby programs are often more convenient for students attending programs that require on-campus sessions or hold college networking events.
Accreditation
Accreditation provides credibility to online degrees. It demonstrates that the program meets national academic standards and prepares graduates to enter their field. Accredited degrees are favored by potential employers. An accredited degree is also usually required to transfer credits or pursue graduate studies. Online colleges must meet the same accreditation standards as physical campuses.
Student Support
When selecting an online bachelor's in marketing program, consider whether they offer online student support services. Student support services, like mentorship, career advising, academic advising, and tutoring can improve student experience and outcomes. Student services can also offer alumni networking events, mentorship programs, and internship placements.
Frequently Asked Questions About Marketing Programs
Is an online marketing degree worth it?
Yes. A bachelor's in marketing can lead to careers in fields with projected job growth of 11%-22% from 2020-2030, according to the BLS. In addition, BLS data show that as of May 2021, median salaries for marketing careers ranged from $63,920 to $133,380. This is higher than the average salary for all U.S. occupations of $45,760.
Online programs can be worth it because they give students more flexibility. Graduates gain valuable marketing insight and understanding of business concepts to succeed in various marketing careers.
With experience, there is also potential for career and salary growth. For example, the top 25% of advertising managers earned a median annual salary of $172,210 as of May 2021.
What jobs can I get with a bachelor's in marketing?
Graduates with a bachelor's in marketing can pursue careers in the business and marketing fields. A bachelor's degree can also pave the way for graduate studies in marketing or an MBA.
Graduates with a bachelor's degree may specialize in specific marketing skills. Digital marketing and social media management are fields that have emerged in the last two decades and are increasingly dominating marketing demand. Other common specialties include:
- Public relations
- Brand management
- Market research
- Data analysis
- Sports representation
- Advertising management
- Promotions campaigns
- Search engine optimization (SEO)
- Brand copywriter
Are marketing programs and majors in demand?
Marketing professionals build public perception of companies, analyze market trends, and create effective marketing campaigns to drive business growth. Businesses of all sizes require marketing to grow, as evidenced by projected career growth for marketing careers.
Currently, the BLS projects the addition of about 31,200 new public relations specialist positions between 2020 and 2030. Market research analyst jobs are projected to grow by 163,600 positions in the same time.
According to a 2021 report by We Are Social and Hootsuite, in the digital marketing field, the number of global social media users was 4.2 billion as of January 2021. This could potentially drive further marketing career growth as companies seek to reach potential customers and build brand presence through social media channels.
How much money can I make with an online marketing degree?
At the high end, marketing managers or advertising managers earned a median salary of $133,380 in 2021, per the BLS. Managerial positions usually require experience or a master's degree.
In entry-level positions, Payscale reports that social media marketing specialists earn an average salary of over $46,000 per year as of June 2022. Social media specialists with 20-plus years of experience earned an average salary of $60,000.
For public relations specialists, professionals with salaries in the lowest 10% of earners made a median of $37,020 in 2021. The highest-paid 10% earned median salaries of $124,620 the same year.
What are the highest-paying jobs with a bachelor's in marketing?
The highest-paying jobs available to graduates with a bachelor's in marketing vary by region and career experience. As of May 2021, BLS data reports that the top 10% of market research analysts earned median salaries of $128,320. The top 10% of public relations specialists earned median salaries of $124,620 the same year.
Other marketing careers with higher-than-average salaries include:
