Many schools offer affordable online marketing degrees. These programs build skills in general business and marketing strategies. Applicants usually only need a high school diploma. Graduates with a bachelor's in marketing may complete a variety of duties. They may work on advertising campaigns, market research, or product placements.
Our guide to affordable online marketing degrees includes information on tuition, common classes, and potential jobs for marketing graduates.
Questions About Marketing Degrees
What can I do with a marketing degree?
An online marketing degree prepares students for careers in advertising, business, and public relations. With experience, degree-holders can move into management roles.
Which degree is best for marketing?
A bachelor's is the standard degree for most entry- and mid-level marketing careers. More advanced positions may require a master's degree.
Are marketing degrees in demand?
Yes. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects jobs for market research analysts to grow 22% from 2020-2030. This rate is much faster than average for all occupations.
Featured Online Programs
Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.
Most Affordable Online Marketing Degrees
The school and/or program descriptions below were drafted using natural language generation technology and have been edited for clarity and accuracy. The data is primarily sourced from government databases such as IPEDS – see sources section for more details.Why Get a Degree in Marketing?
A marketing degree builds broad knowledge in business and marketing practices. The most affordable online marketing degrees let students build knowledge without taking on too much debt.
Marketing graduates can apply their skills to many different jobs. Degree-holders often pursue business, public relations, or advertising careers. An online marketing degree provides flexibility for students to continue their careers while earning a degree.
How Much Does a Marketing Degree Cost?
College costs an average of $35,331 a year, according to EducationData.org. However, tuition rates for a bachelor's in marketing vary by school, learners' residency status, and program length.
Full-time students can complete a bachelor's degree in four years. Accelerated programs can help students graduate faster. Many schools offer affordable online marketing degrees that learners complete without visiting campus.
Additional Online Student Fees
Online students can save money by avoiding relocation and commuting expenses. However, they should budget for other expenses, such as graduation and technology fees. Online enrollees also need materials and books. They can save money by buying used or digital textbooks.
Some online marketing programs use a hybrid format that includes campus and online components. Learners should budget for travel and lodging expenses for any in-person requirements.
How Much Do Marketing Graduates Make?
Salaries vary depending on a person's title, employer, and geographic location. Marketing degree-holders may work as market research analysts, marketing managers, or copywriters. Graduates may also work as advertising, promotions, and marketing managers. These professionals earn an annual median salary of $141,490.
Professionals can increase their salary potential by earning an advanced degree. People with a master's degree in marketing can qualify for leadership and research positions.
Courses in Marketing
Learners pursuing the most affordable online marketing degrees develop broad business and specialized marketing skills. Students also build communication and organizational management skills. Programs cover finance, business communication, and information systems.
Enrollees may take classes in advertising, consumer analysis, and marketing management. Some programs offer specializations in digital marketing and social media marketing.
See below for three common classes in bachelor's in marketing programs. Keep in mind that courses vary by program.
Market Research
This class explores common practices for planning, performing, and analyzing market research. Learners study marketing research methods and strategies. Other topics may include market segmentation, distribution, and pricing.Advertising
Advertising forms another major component of marketing, helping organizations communicate with the public. This class offers an overview of the development, implementation, and evaluation of advertising campaigns. Students learn about copywriting and strategic market planning. They also explore art direction and media planning.Digital Marketing
Online communication affects nearly every aspect of marketing. This class explores marketing strategies for the internet and other digital platforms. Degree-seekers explore how to blend traditional marketing methods with digital content. The class may also cover search marketing, social media, and search engine optimization.
Career and Salary Outlook for Marketing Students
An online marketing degree can lead to many careers. Most graduates work in the business world. However, marketing can apply to any industry that needs to communicate with the public. Advertising agencies, nonprofits, and private businesses all use marketing techniques.
See below for three possible careers for marketing graduates.
Market Research Analysis
These professionals help organizations understand and predict market trends. They monitor sales trends and other market data to determine the potential consumer desire for specific goods or services. Analysts may also devise and coordinate methods for gathering market data, such as surveys and focus groups.Advertising, Promotions, and Marketing Managers
These managers plan and direct an organization's overall marketing and advertising strategies. They take data from market research and use it to make promotional campaigns. These managers may also oversee marketing budgets and determine overall media strategies. They commonly work alongside other department heads and managers.Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners
These professionals coordinate and manage all types of major events, such as professional conferences. They commonly work with event venues to ensure adequate preparation for events. These planners also arrange transportation, food, and lodging for attendees.
| Career | Median Annual Salary | Projected Growth Rate (2020-2030) |
|---|---|---|
| Market Research Analysts | $65,810 | 22% |
| Advertising, Promotions, and Marketing Managers | $141,490 | 10% |
| Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners | $51,560 | 18% |
Source:BLS
