Online Master's Degree in Marketing | Admissions, Tuition & Courses

An online master's in marketing program focuses on advanced strategic marketing skills, ensuring graduates excel in various marketing careers.

Earning your master's degree in marketing online lets you pursue exciting careers in brand management, digital marketing, market research, and more. To learn more about what this degree entails, you can use the information we provide below.

We go through the admission requirements, how much tuition will cost, and the courses you can expect to take in the program. By the end of this guide, you'll have a clear understanding of how an online master's in marketing can help you achieve your professional goals.

What Is an Online Master's Degree in Marketing?

A master's degree in marketing focuses on advanced marketing strategies, consumer behavior, digital marketing, and brand management. This degree is perfect for those looking to deepen their expertise in marketing or transition into higher-level roles within the field.

Courses will usually be about digital marketing, market research, brand management, consumer psychology, and analytics. Students learn to develop and execute comprehensive marketing plans, analyze market trends, and utilize digital tools to enhance brand visibility and customer engagement.

The great part about this degree being online is that you have a lot of flexibility, allowing you to balance your studies with professional and personal commitments. You can rest assured that an online master's degree is just as academically rigorous as an in-person degree.

Graduates of a marketing master's degree are well-prepared for a variety of careers, such as marketing manager, digital marketing specialist, brand strategist, and market research analyst.

Online Master's Degree in Marketing Admissions Requirements

Admissions requirements vary slightly among online marketing programs, but we've listed common requirements below.

• a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, ideally in marketing, business, communications, or a related field
• a minimum GPA, often around 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
• official transcripts from all colleges or universities you've attended
• a statement of purpose outlining your career goals, interest in marketing, and reasons for pursuing the degree
• letters of recommendation from academic or professional references who can speak to your marketing knowledge and potential for success
• a current resume detailing relevant work experience and skills, especially in marketing, communications, or digital media
• GMAT or GRE scores (though some programs may waive this requirement based on experience)
• proof of English proficiency for non-native speakers (such as TOEFL or IELTS scores)

Some programs might also request a personal interview or a portfolio showcasing your marketing projects or campaigns.

Cost of an Online Master's Degree in Marketing

Tuition for an online marketing degree varies according to an institution's reputation and location. We've listed some top programs' tuition rates below.

• Johns Hopkins University: $1,890 per credit ($56,700 total for tuition as a part-time student)
• University of Texas at Dallas: around $800 to $1,000 per credit depending on how many credits you enroll in during one term
• Southern New Hampshire University: $637 per credit ($22,932 total)
• Colorado University at Denver: $720 to $839 per credit depending on residency ($21,600 to $25,170 total)

Online Master's Degree in Marketing Coursework

The coursework for an online master's degree in marketing often includes:

• Digital marketing strategy: covers the fundamentals of digital marketing, including SEO, SEM, social media marketing, and content strategy
• Consumer behavior: explores psychological, social, and cultural factors that influence consumer decisions and how these insights can be applied to marketing strategies
• Brand management: focuses on developing and managing brand identity, positioning, and equity across different channels and markets
• Marketing analytics: teaches data-driven decision-making, utilizing analytics tools to measure campaign effectiveness and optimize marketing strategies
• Integrated marketing communications: combines elements of advertising, PR, and digital marketing to develop cohesive marketing plans that drive brand engagement
• Market research methods: provides techniques for designing and conducting market research, analyzing data, and interpreting consumer insights

Types of Online Master's Programs in Marketing

There are a few different online marketing master's programs that differ according to your career goals.

Master of Science in Marketing (MSM)

An MSM focuses on advanced marketing strategies, consumer behavior, and market research techniques. It's ideal for those looking to specialize deeply in marketing analytics and strategy development.

Master of Business Administration (MBA) With a Concentration in Marketing

A marketing MBA combines core business education with specialized training in marketing. This program is perfect for those who want a broader understanding of business operations along with a focus on marketing.

Master of Science in Digital Marketing

A digital marketing master's emphasizes digital and online marketing strategies, including SEO, social media marketing, and content strategy. Those aiming to excel in the rapidly growing digital marketing field should get this degree.

Executive Master's in Marketing and Sales

Executive degrees are for professionals who have several years of experience. This program focuses on strategic decision-making, leadership, and advanced marketing techniques.

Specializations in Online Master's Programs in Marketing

Choosing a specialization within a master's program in marketing allows students to focus on specific areas of interest, tailoring their education to their career goals. Common specializations include:

• Digital marketing: focuses on online marketing strategies, including social media marketing, SEO, content marketing, and email campaigns, preparing you for roles as a digital marketing manager or strategist
• Market research and analytics: provides skills in data analysis, consumer insights, and market research methods, perfect for roles in market research and consumer behavior analysis
• Integrated marketing communications: combines public relations, advertising, and digital marketing to create cohesive marketing strategies, making it suitable for careers in communications management and marketing consulting
• Global marketing: focuses on international marketing strategies and cross-cultural consumer behavior, preparing graduates for roles in global marketing management

Choosing a specialization can help you become more competitive in specific marketing roles and industries, aligning your education with your career ambitions.

How To Pay for an Online Master's Degree in Marketing

With some universities charging higher than average tuition rates for this degree, you may be wondering how you can afford it. We've listed some funding options below.

Marketing-Specific Scholarships

Many organizations and companies, such as the American Marketing Association (AMA) or marketing firms, offer scholarships specifically for students pursuing advanced degrees in marketing. Look into these opportunities to find scholarships that align with your career goals.

Employer Tuition Reimbursement

Some employers offer tuition assistance or reimbursement programs for employees advancing their education in relevant fields. Marketing skills are valuable across industries, making employer sponsorship a viable option.

Graduate Assistantships

Some online programs offer assistantships or fellowships, even for remote students, that provide financial support in exchange for research or administrative work related to marketing.

Professional Organization Grants

Joining professional organizations such as the AMA or the Direct Marketing Association (DMA) can provide access to grants and scholarships to support your studies.

Competitions and Marketing Challenges

Participate in marketing competitions or case challenges that offer cash prizes or scholarships. These events also help build your portfolio and expand your professional network.

Income Share Agreements (ISAs)

Some schools offer ISAs where you pay a percentage of your future income for a set period instead of upfront tuition costs, which can help ease the financial burden.

Crowdfunding and Peer-to-Peer Lending

Platforms like GoFundMe or LendingClub offer alternative financing options with potentially lower interest rates than traditional loans. Present your case to your network, explaining how further education will enhance your marketing skills and career.

Careers With an Online Master's Degree in Marketing

A marketing degree that you earn online can make you a great candidate for some of the following roles.

• Marketing managers: plan and execute marketing strategies to promote products and services, manage marketing teams, and drive brand growth
• Digital marketing specialists: focus on online marketing strategies, including SEO, social media, email marketing, and content strategy, to enhance brand visibility and engagement
• Brand strategists: develop and manage brand positioning and identity, ensuring consistency across all marketing channels and communications
• Market research analysts: conduct research to gather consumer insights, analyze market trends, and inform strategic marketing decisions
• Content marketing managers: oversee content strategy and creation to build brand awareness, engage customers, and drive conversions
• Product marketing managers: focus on marketing products or services, working closely with product development, sales, and customer service teams to align marketing efforts with product goals

Tips for Applying To an Online Master's in Marketing Degree Program

When applying for an online master's in marketing, it's crucial to craft a strong application that highlights your skills, experience, and passion for the field. Here are some tips to help you succeed.

• Highlight relevant experience by emphasizing your background in marketing, digital media, communications, or related roles.
• Use specific examples to demonstrate how you've driven results and achieved marketing objectives.
• Craft a compelling statement of purpose that explains why you want to pursue the degree and how it aligns with your career goals.
• Discuss unique challenges you've faced in marketing and how you've overcome them.
• Showcase your creative thinking and analytical skills, demonstrating your ability to approach marketing strategically and creatively.
• Gather strong letters of recommendation from individuals who can speak to your marketing abilities and potential for success in a graduate program.
• Demonstrate knowledge of marketing tools such as Google Analytics, HubSpot, or social media platforms to show your readiness for advanced coursework.
• Research program-specific requirements and tailor your application to align with the program's strengths and focus areas.

FAQs About an Online Master's Degree in Marketing

Here are some frequently asked questions that explain the program's benefits, structure, and impact on your career.

Is Getting an Online Master's Degree in Marketing Worth It?

Yes, an online master's degree in marketing is a great investment for anyone looking to advance their career in marketing or shift into a higher-level role. The degree provides essential skills in digital marketing, brand management, and market research, making you a valuable asset to any organization.

This degree can help you stay ahead of trends, boost your earning potential, and open doors to leadership positions like marketing manager or brand strategist.

Is an Online Master's Degree Respected?

Earning a master's degree online from a recognized institution is the same as earning an in-person degree in the marketing field. Employers appreciate online education, particularly for those who manage to juggle their studies with a demanding career.

Online programs often match the quality of on-campus options, offering the same challenging coursework, experienced instructors, and support. As long as the program is accredited and thorough, an online degree is just as respected as an in-person degree.

Do I Need Work Experience to Apply for an Online Master's Degree in Marketing?

Work experience can make your application more appealing, however, it is completely optional. These degrees are tailored for recent bachelor's degree graduates or those who have a few years of experience.