According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the marketing field should experience an increase in career opportunities in the coming years. For instance, market research analysts positions should increase by 23% by 2026, while advertising, promotions, and marketing manager opportunities should grow by 10% by that same year. Both of these percentages represent faster than average growth, which indicates that an online marketing master’s degree is a lucrative investment.
The marketing field also includes ongoing innovation, due to changing technology and globalization. As an example, social media platforms require marketing steps that exist outside of more traditional marketing plans, such as hourly posts and hashtag usage. As technological and cultural changes occur, marketing experts must explore new marketing territory, which adds ongoing excitement to the field. This page explores master’s programs that can lead to these lucrative and innovative marketing professions.
A Master’s in Marketing gives you a flexible set of skills that you can apply to a variety of employment settings, making you more able to adapt to a changing job market.
Why Study Online?
There are many options for pursuing a Master’s in Marketing, but some will offer a better return on investment than others. Since the recession, student loan debt has sky-rocketed to an all-time record of $1.2 trillion. [1]
Pursuing a Master’s degree online allows you to avoid becoming part of that statistic. Many programs are flexible enough that you can work and study simultaneously while taking advantage of tuition rates that are often lower than their campus-based counterparts.
Once you look at this list, take a glance at our ranking of the Best Online Colleges and Universities. You’ll be an even better informed student and consumer.
What Are the Best Online Master’s in Marketing Degrees?
We at College Choice have waded through piles of information – and our online Master’s in Marketing ranking takes into account key criteria like tuition, accreditation, national reputation scores, and early career earnings. We then weigh the information to come up with a composite score that reflects academic excellence and the projected return on your tuition investment.
Our Best Master’s in Marketing ranking includes a variety of Marketing programs – we’ve included both MBAs and MS in Management degrees (when they have Marketing concentrations), as well as MS in Marketing degrees.
As you browse our list, here are a few other things to keep in mind:
- This College Choice ranking includes small colleges, large universities, private, public, for-profit and non-profit institutions – all of which are regionally accredited.
- Many programs have additional accreditation from the AACSB, the ACBSP, or the IACBE – the three main Business School accrediting bodies.
- Tuition is based on out-of-state, per-credit tuition listed on program websites. Be aware that some schools have additional fees, and some programs have a heavier credit load than others.
We hope this list helps you find a Marketing program that works for you!
2018 Ranking
See our rankings methodology page.
1
University of Massachusetts Lowell
Overview
The University of Massachusetts Lowell delivers a 42-credit master’s in business administration (MBA) with a concentration in marketing. To earn this master’s in marketing online, candidates must complete marketing coursework, such as new product development and digital marketing, as well as foundations courses that include financial accounting and organizational behavior. The department, however, waives foundations courses for students who earned at least a B in undergraduate course equivalents in the last decade, which lowers the needed credit number to 30. Learners complete all coursework asynchronously and must finish this program in under five years. This program boasts accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
2
University of Wisconsin Whitewater
Overview
Candidates exploring online marketing master’s degrees should consider the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater’s MBA. For this degree, students can choose a marketing concentration with courses that include buyer behavior and internet marketing, and may also add a secondary emphasis area, such as data analysis and supply chain management. Learners must also complete prerequisites, core MBA classes, and electives. This degree requires at least 36 credits and guides learners in becoming ethical and persuasive leaders in the marketing field. The AACSB accredits this program, and The Princeton Review ranks the institution among the best business schools.
3
Washington State University
Overview
The MBA from Washington State University (WSU) allows candidates to concentrate in marketing. To earn this master’s in marketing online, learners complete foundation courses that include business law and managerial economics, as well as core classes such as marketing management and information systems management. Learners must also complete a capstone project and presentation to wrap up the program. Candidates can finish this degree in under two years, and may participate in international field studies in South Korea and China to examine international economies. This program holds AACSB accreditation. Additionally, U.S. News and World Report ranked WSU’s MBA program among the top 5% of virtual MBA opportunities.
4
Indiana University Bloomington
Overview
The 30-credit master of science (MS) in marketing from Indiana University Bloomington trains candidates to research and interpret consumer tendencies, for the purpose of discerning solid marketing techniques. Coursework includes performance driven pricing, applied marketing research, and marketing in the era of digital technology. Candidates can graduate in less than three years, but must attend Kelley Connect Week on campus. Learners can also gain international experience through the Accelerating Global Immersion Leadership Education (AGILE) program. Past AGILE itineraries allowed candidates to gain hands-on problem-solving experience through trips to Cuba, China, Thailand, Brazil, South Africa, India, and Greece.
5
Saint Joseph's University
Overview
Students pursuing an MBA at Saint Joseph’s University can specialize in marketing. This program requires as many as 53 credits. However, the department may waive foundation courses for learners whose transcripts include course equivalents. This process can lead to candidates only needing one year of study to earn this online marketing master’s degree. Degree seekers must complete a capstone element that concerns global business strategy. Students may choose a second concentration, such as international business, to strengthen business knowledge. Candidates who already hold an MBA can also pursue a poster-MBA certificate in marketing by taking only four classes.
6
University of New Hampshire
Overview
The University of New Hampshire delivers an MBA where students can specialize in marketing. This emphasis gives learners a strong grasp on digital marketing, analytics, and innovative products through classes such as strategic pricing, new product development, and international marketing. Candidates pursuing this online marketing master’s degree may study abroad for 10 days during the international management class. However, learners must fulfill degree components within three and a half years. This program boasts AACSB accreditation. Additionally, U.S. News and World Report ranked the program among the top online MBA options.
7
University of Arizona
Overview
The 45-credit MBA from the University of Arizona offers several concentrations, including marketing. The department delivers asynchronous classes, such as health economics, business strategy, fundamental financial modeling, and customer focused entrepreneurship. Learners can complete this online marketing master’s degree in just over one year, but must complete all requirements within four years. Online MBA learners may attend on-campus events for networking and professional advancement. Students can also benefit from the MBA Career Management program’s guidance, job fairs, and interview connections, and can explore business-related news through the Eller Buzz online magazine.
8
Drexel University
Overview
Drexel University delivers an accelerated MBA with a marketing specialization. Students can complete this program in under two years, but may also explore a dual degree option where 15 credits can simultaneously apply toward an MBA and an MS. Learners must visit campus at the beginning of programs to network with other cohort members, and to attend orientation. Students can also explore international residency opportunities when approaching the end of the program. To finish this master’s in marketing online, candidates must complete a capstone. Students and alumni for this AACSB-accredited program may benefit from career guidance from the university.
9
University of North Carolina
Overview
The MBA from the University of North Carolina requires 66 credits, and within 18-36 months, candidates can complete this MBA with a marketing specialization. However, learners must attend virtual, live classes. Degree seekers may gain hands-on experience in global marketing through three-day Global Immersions opportunities. Cities of past immersions include Mumbai, Singapore, London, and Shanghai, and previous participants boast professional experience with distinguished companies, such as ESPN, Citibank, and Google. Students pursuing this online marketing master’s degree may also participate in online and live events, including meet and greets, a career management information session, and coffee chats.
10
Walsh University
Overview
Walsh University provides an MBA in marketing that requires as many as 42 credits, and prepares learners for careers as market researchers, media managers, and marketing analysts. Coursework involves core classes, such as sustainable ethical leadership and information systems, and marketing concentration courses, including integrated marketing communications and social media marketing. Students take one 8-week course at a time, and must complete a capstone in marketing strategy to obtain this master’s in marketing online. Distance learners can benefit from the school’s blog that covers topics such as finance careers and program admissions, and connects site viewers to business webinars.
11
Northeastern University
Overview
Candidates interested in earning a master’s in marketing online should consider Northeastern University’s MBA with a marketing concentration. Through coursework in market focused strategy, international marketing, and brand and advertising management, candidates learn techniques to create stand-out brands for companies, services, and products. Learners may also choose a dual concentration where they study marketing, as well as either innovation entrepreneurship or international management. Applicants for this AACSB-accredited program must possess at least five years of professional experience. Online learners can use the school’s virtual library resources and explore marketing ideas, such as digital methods, through the school’s business blog.
12
Concordia University Wisconsin
Overview
Concordia University Wisconsin (CUW) delivers an MBA in strategic marketing that assists current marketing and advertising professionals, as well as candidates entering the field. To earn this online marketing master’s degree, candidates may need to complete in-person elements. For instance, the program’s industry leadership seminar series includes on-campus features. Students can finish the program with 39 credits and in under two years, but may also earn a dual degree. Additionally, the department allows candidates to obtain credit for internships. During the program, candidates may study abroad for one week in Austria or China. Students at CUW receive free counseling services and may use the school’s career services during the program and after graduating.
13
Lasell College
Overview
Students can earn an online marketing master’s degree through Lasell University’s MS in the field. The program requires 36 credits in marketing-related coursework, such as consumer behavior, global marketing, and integrated marketing communications. Additionally, degree seekers must complete a capstone, but can choose between a research project or internship. Learners can complete all program requirements in 1-2 years, and then enter careers as marketing specialists, product marketing managers, and marketing representatives. Students can benefit from the school’s career services that provide mock interviews and assistance for locating internships, as well as workshops on creating resumes, networking, and bargaining for better wages.
14
Southern New Hampshire University
Overview
Southern New Hampshire University students can choose from concentrations in digital marketing, new media and communications, market research and analytics, and social media marketing when pursuing an MS in marketing. Courses for all concentrations include strategic internet marketing and marketing analytics, but concentrations influence other classes. For example, students going for a master’s in digital marketing online must complete online marketing channels, whereas a new media and communications students must take communication with media technology. All program tracks, however, require 36 credits and a capstone project. SNHU hosts an online writing center and online tutoring services that virtual learners can use, as well as free webinars and resources for career assistance.
15
Regent University
Overview
Students who pursue Regent University’s 42-credit MBA in marketing explore public relations, media, ethics, and communication concepts to prepare for careers as marketing leaders, sales managers, and research analysts. Coursework for this online marketing master’s degree include viral marketing and program assessment. The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) accredits this program, and the U.S. News and World Report ranked the opportunity among the top five online MBA programs in Virginia for 2018. Regent University students can also obtain field experience through the Center for Entrepreneurship. This organization assists financially deficient communities by encouraging entrepreneurship in areas such as Nigeria, India, and South Africa.
16
Florida Institute of Technology
Overview
The Florida Institute of Technology delivers a 36-credit MBA in marketing. Learners pursuing this online marketing master’s degree explore essentials of business development, strategic marketing, advanced market research, and consumer behavior strategies through 8-week courses, and must also finish a capstone component that involves case analysis and the development of competitive marketing plans. Learners may finish this program within two years, and can explore the school’s blog for advice on career pursuits, businesses with promising futures, and evolving technology. The program holds accreditation through the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education.
17
Tiffin University
Overview
Candidates pursuing an MBA at Tiffin University may concentrate on marketing to learn international business trends, concept analysis, and tactics for increased product awareness. This online marketing master’s degree holds accreditation through the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). University students may purchase software at discount prices, such as Windows 10, Norton Security Deluxe, and Adobe Creative Cloud. Learners may also use the institution’s career services to practice interview skills, explore employment opportunities, and obtain resume feedback. Career services also include seminars and workshops to provide career advancement insights. The university, furthermore, provides counseling opportunities that students near campus can use.
18
Saint Leo University
Overview
Saint Leo University offers an online marketing master’s degree by allowing MBA students to concentrate in marketing. Program curriculum introduces candidates to business, communication, leadership, and economic concepts that relate to marketing, with attention given to ethical field concerns. Learners complete 8-week courses, such as e-marketing and sales management, and may fulfill an internship for credit. Candidates can finish the minimum requirement of 36 credits in 1-5 years, and may add a secondary concentration area. The ACBSP accredits this program. University students can access online sources through the school’s library, and may benefit from online tutoring services.
19
Colorado Technical University
Overview
Students pursuing an MBA with a marketing concentration at Colorado Technical University explore global marketing concepts to create and implement customer-concerned marketing strategies. Learners must complete 48 credits in core and concentration classes, such as international marketing and applied managerial finance, but may also need to fulfill three foundation courses in general business areas if they do not hold an undergraduate business degree. For this online marketing master’s degree, candidates complete a capstone course where, through simulation, they must oversee a multimillion dollar business. The ACBSP accredits this program, and U.S. News and World Report ranked the program among the top online MBA opportunities.
20
American Intercontinental University
Overview
The American Intercontinental University offers an MBA with a marketing specialization that prepares students to explore product development opportunities, promote services, uncover solutions to marketing problems, and research consumer needs for marketing platforms. To earn this online marketing master’s degree, candidates must complete 24 credits in core classes, including strategic management and business research for decision making, and 24 credits in concentration courses, such as research methods in marketing and international marketing. This program holds ACBSP accreditation. Online learners can browse the school’s blog for tips on keeping up-to-date with coursework and editing techniques.
21
Fort Hays State University
Overview
Fort Hays State University offers an MBA that U.S. News and World Report ranked among the top online MBA options in 2016 and 2018. The department delivers a marketing concentration where, in addition to MBA course requirements, students must take marketing research, consumer behavior, and strategic electronic marketing. Graduates who earn this online marketing master’s degree may work in sales, retail, and brand management, and benefit from life-long career assistance from the school. Additionally, university students may participate in graduate teaching assistantships, though these opportunities are on campus. The school also provides online tutoring and writing guidance.
22
Dallas Baptist University
Overview
Dallas Baptist University provides an MBA with a marketing concentration. Students earning this online marketing master’s degree must complete 36 credits in courses such as business development strategies, creative problem solving marketing decisions, and consumer and buyer behavior, and may need to complete additional business courses if prior coursework does not indicate field experience. Learners can also pursue dual degrees, which require 48 credits and can increase program length by one year. Possibilities for secondary programs for an MBA learner include a master of arts in communication, global leadership, and higher education. The program holds accreditation through the ACBSP.
23
Indiana Institute of Technology
Overview
Candidates interested in earning a master’s in marketing online can explore the Indiana Institute of Technology’s 36-credit MBA with a marketing concentration. Core classes include business statistics and executive management, and concentration courses involve business law and international marketing. The school offers learners several resources, including tutoring and guidance on cover letters and resumes. In fact, alumni of the program can continue to benefit from these career services through Skype, FaceTime, or phone appointments, regardless of location. Additional resources on the school’s website include tips for bargaining for better wages, information on volunteer opportunities, and webinars.
24
Post University
Overview
Post University’s MBA with a concentration in marketing builds communication skills, improves candidates’ understanding of organizations, encourages general ethics, and equips learners with insights for creating effective marketing plans. Students can complete the required 36 credits to earn this online marketing master’s degree, including a capstone project, within two years. Additional coursework involves business analytics for managers and strategic brand management. Graduates go on to become investment fund managers, cost estimators, supply chain managers, and chief executives. Online learners can benefit from the university’s career services, such as interviewing tips, by watching webinars through the Career Center’s YouTube channel.
25
Regis University
Overview
Students at Regis University can earn an MS in marketing through the school’s 30-credit program. Candidates for this online marketing master’s degree take classes like global brand strategy and market opportunity assessment to gain skills for careers as public relations managers, marketing specialists, and advertising managers. The school maintains a Center for Workforce Ethics and Lifelong Learning that delivers podcasts online and allows learners to explore internship possibilities. Regis University alumni also use the Center for Career and Professional Development to search for jobs. Alumni also gain access to a LinkedIn group and can attend the center’s career fairs to explore open job opportunities.