Which Schools Have an Online Degree in Marketing Research?

Online degree programs in marketing research are not likely to be available, although you can study marketing research through distance learning in related programs, like a general marketing degree program. Read on to learn about what types of programs provide training in market research, and get information on three schools that offer online programs in this field.

Online Degree in Marketing Research Overview

Marketing Research is a process of finding and utilizing information about a product or the state of a certain market for the purpose of helping a business predict their potential consumer market or their competitors. While most business schools offer degree programs in marketing, very few offer marketing research degree programs or specializations in marketing research. Even fewer schools offer marketing research programs online. However, marketing research is an integral component of virtually all degree programs in marketing, which may be offered online. These programs generally provide enough education for graduates to obtain work in the marketing research field, which includes positions in focus group coordination, statistical marketing analysis, survey writing and research coordination.

Important Facts About This Field of Study

Common Courses	Data Analysis, Research Planning, Marketing Strategy
Degree/Certificate Levels	Certificate of Program Completion, Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, Master of Engineering
Online Availability	Fully available
Possible Careers	Account Manager, Market Analyst in Research, Marketing Manager
Median Salary (2021)	$63,920 (for market research analysts)
Job Growth (2021-2031)	19% (for market research analysts)

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, or RPI, offers a marketing research concentration online through its Master of Science/Master of Engineering in Operations Research and Statistics program. This program is different from marketing programs in that it is based in mathematics and statistics, which provide the quantitative background for effective marketing research. Core courses in the operations research and statistics program covers probability and discrete math, while the marketing research concentration includes courses in database systems, statistical computing and regression analysis.

University of Georgia

Although it doesn't offer a degree program, the University of Georgia has an online Certificate of Program Completion in Principles of Market Research. It requires 200 hours of study and includes 11 training modules that cover subjects such as research design, data collection, data analysis, global marketing and marketing research trends. This program may be taken by individuals who want to begin a career in marketing research or by professionals who are seeking continuing education; completion of the certificate program results in 20 continuing education credits.

University of Minnesota

While the University of Minnesota does not offer a marketing research concentration as part of its online Bachelor of Science in Marketing program, the program does contain a course in marketing research that includes lessons in scientific research methods, research analysis, market decision-making and report writing. The program also covers important principles of marketing research, such as marketing communications, consumer behavior and business ethics. Classes in public speaking, business writing and management information systems can aid the student in best presenting their marketing research findings. In addition, a course in basic statistics helps to bridge the gap between quantitative and qualitative analysis, while a required internship provides real life experience in both marketing and marketing research.