Online Master’s Programs In Digital Marketing

Communications professional can raise their yearly median salary from $54,000 to $67,000 by earning a master’s in communications and mass media, which includes programs in digital marketing online. Graduates can become marketing executives, marketing managers, or public relations managers. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects growth in each of these careers. Furthermore, these professions each earn a median of over $100,000 each year.

These professionals have high earnings in growing sectors and work with exciting new technology. Digital marketers use emerging media platforms to promote brands. An online master’s in digital marketing is a great field for any student interested in technology.

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Students learn about existing and emerging technologies in digital marketing master’s programs. Programs cover how brands use platforms to engage consumers. As traditional marketing takes a back seat to its digital counterpart, professionals need to stay up-to-date on emerging strategies. Many of these programs focus on business operations. Classes include creative topics like design, as well as budgeting and organizational structures.

Programs can take between one and three years to complete. Students who have educational or professional backgrounds in marketing or digital communications can complete these programs in less time. Since subject matter is digital, online classes are a great option. Students can benefit from flexibility and the low cost of a distance education.

Schools offer different courses and concentrations; however, there are fundamental subjects in any master’s in digital marketing online. While classes may be listed under different names, the following courses are common in digital marketing programs.

Online master’s in digital marketing programs require final projects. Creative programs often want students to compile and present portfolios, which are created throughout coursework. Other programs may require degree candidates to present a thesis paper. Students can spend several semesters working on a thesis. Some professors require thesis projects to include independent research. In MBA programs with concentrations in digital marketing, students may need to create business plans in place of thesis projects and some programs may require learners to complete internships.

Digital marketing is often a specialization within another program; however, students can design a degree to fit their career goals. With elective courses, learners can explore subjects that will make them experts in niche areas of marketing. Below are some of the electives offered.

With a master’s in digital marketing online, a graduate can choose from several career paths. A master’s degree gives job candidate’s a competitive edge. Graduates with leadership skills can become marketing managers, public relations managers, and chief marketing officers. Those with analytical skills and attention to detail can become market research analysts. Graduates who enjoy public relations can become specialists.

Professional organizations offer students and workers the chance to grow their careers. Networking opportunities like annual conferences, online forums, and local chapter meetings can open doors for new graduates. Organizations offer continuing education and certification opportunities; mentorship programs; access to exclusive research journals and job boards; and resume reviews.

Graduates with digital marketing credentials can become marketing managers, public relations managers, public relations specialists, chief marketing officers, or market research analysts. Many of these occupations pay average salaries above $100,000. Factors influence whether a professional is on the low or high end of the scale. For example, professionals in major metropolitan areas often earn higher salaries than their rural or suburban counterparts.

Source: BLS 2018

BLS projects all of the careers above to grow as fast as the national average. In many cases, BLS projects growth rates well above average for careers in digital marketing. For example, analytical graduates can take advantage of the 23% growth rate of market research analysts; a percentage three times the national average. In more competitive areas, like public relations and top executive positions, graduate degrees can set candidates apart.

Education is one of the biggest factors that impacts salary for marketing and communication professionals. The Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce found that professionals with undergraduate degrees earn $54,000 per year; however, those with master’s degrees make $67,000 annually. With a $13,000 increase per year, a master’s in digital marketing can pay for itself.

Candidates should consider accredited universities with credentialed business programs. There are two types of accreditation, the first is institutional which includes regional and national accreditation. Credits from regionally accredited universities are easier to transfer. Learners who earn degrees from institutions without accreditation may have difficulty obtaining professional certifications. Some employers require applicants to hold accredited degrees.

The second type of accreditation is programmatic. Agencies award these credentials to programs within a university, such as graduate digital marketing programs. Since marketing programs are often within business schools, students should look for accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. This organization ensures academic rigor and the highest educational standards and help students gain professional certifications.

Students who want to earn a master’s degree can access several types of financial aid. Master’s students can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which gives students federal assistance and access to private scholarships.