A master's degree in marketing can help advance your career, increase salary potential, and hone expertise. Explore top programs to find the right one for you.
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Are you ready to discover your college program?
A master's degree in marketing can catalyze your career advancement, taking you from an operational role into a leadership post. Choosing the best school for your degree is critical to making your education work for you.
In terms of a master's degree, a good school holds institutional accreditation, has programmatic accreditation for business, receives national or local recognition, and provides education at a price you can afford.
Once you've chosen your program, you may need to pick a focus, such as digital marketing, brand strategy, or marketing analytics. Your focus will influence the transferable skills you learn in school. Theory, analytics, and consumer psychology courses will likely have longer-lasting value than how-to courses in digital media or advertising.
No matter your curriculum track, a master's in marketing can position you for a high-paying career as an advertising executive, nonprofit fundraiser, market research analyst, or chief marketing officer.
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Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Colleges With Master’s in Marketing Programs
These rankings include sponsored results from our partners. We use publicly available provisional datasets from Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) to inform the data for these schools. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.
We use trusted sources like
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from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
#1 Best Master’s Degrees in Marketing
University of South Florida
Tampa, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
Tampa-based University of South Florida delivers both online and on-campus programs. The public school enrolls 45,596 students. Graduate degree-seekers can earn a master of science in marketing from the school.
While completing the master's program, students take courses emphasizing marketing-specific skills. Learners develop transferable skills through core coursework and specialized knowledge during advanced marketing classes. Specialized electives allow degree-seekers to customize the program based on their goals and interests. Students develop in-demand skills through hands-on learning experiences, such as internships in the marketing field, practicums, and supervised research. The vibrant campus life includes school-sponsored events that supplement enrollees' educational experiences.
The average cost per credit is $907 for programs across fields. The institution's financial aid office helps prospective enrollees understand funding options and reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Of the school's students, 92% obtain financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,559
Out-of-state
$15,473
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,350
Out-of-state
$19,048
Retention Rate
92%
Acceptance Rate
49%
Students Enrolled
50,626
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
90%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Master’s Degrees in Marketing
Florida International University
Miami, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
Students at the public Florida International University can attend classes in person or online. The institution enrolls 50,620 learners. The school offers 101 master's programs, including a master of science in marketing.
Graduates of this master's program often pursue advanced careers in marketing. Along with core knowledge, learners develop advanced marketing skills during hands-on learning opportunities. Specialized electives allow degree-seekers to customize the program based on their goals and interests. The curriculum blends classroom learning and hands-on experiences, such as research and internships, to help students gain field-specific knowledge and transferable skills. School-sponsored events on campus supplement enrollees' educational experiences.
Degree-seekers can work with the institution's financial aid office to apply for federal financial aid. To fund their education, 94% of the school's students receive financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,721
Out-of-state
$16,529
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,912
Out-of-state
$21,393
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
58,836
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
86%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Best Master’s Degrees in Marketing
The University of Texas at Austin
Austin, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
Students can pursue The University of Texas at Austin's programs on campus or online. The school enrolls 46,617 degree-seekers. Learners can pursue 108 master's programs, including a master of science in marketing.
While completing the master's program, students take courses emphasizing marketing-specific skills. Its rigorous core curriculum prepares degree-seekers for the marketing field through foundational coursework and opportunities for advanced study. Academic advisors work with degree-seekers to ensure the curriculum aligns with their professional goals. Learners can also collaborate with faculty advisors and pursue research, internships, and other experiential opportunities. Enrollees can access support services, including tutoring and career services, on campus and online.
Financial aid counselors help degree-seekers understand funding options, including scholarships and fellowships. Of the school's students, 66% receive financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,448
Out-of-state
$40,032
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,028
Out-of-state
$22,886
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
32%
Students Enrolled
50,476
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Master’s Degrees in Marketing
University of Houston
Houston, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Houston is a public institution educating learners through academic programs in various fields. The institution enrolls 45,197 students both online and on campus. Among the school's 89 master's programs includes a master of science in marketing.
Graduates often pursue advanced careers in marketing. Learners develop transferable skills through core coursework and specialized knowledge during advanced marketing classes. Degree-seekers can customize the curriculum based on their interests and professional goals. Experiential learning components, such as projects and internships, provide practical skills to help students prepare for marketing careers. In addition to offering institutional resources such as tutoring and career counseling, the school maintains a vibrant campus community.
Prospective master's degree-seekers can discuss funding options, such as fellowships and scholarships, with financial aid counselors. Of the school's students, 94% obtain financial aid to pay for their degree.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,449
Out-of-state
$20,665
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,539
Out-of-state
$17,681
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
63%
Students Enrolled
47,090
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
96%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Best Master’s Degrees in Marketing
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
Los Angeles-based University of Southern California is a private institution with online and on-campus programs across various fields. The school enrolls about 41,112 students. Among the college's 179 master's programs includes a master of science in marketing.
The program appeals to students pursuing a career in marketing or related fields. Learners gain specialized knowledge during advanced marketing classes, and they receive opportunities to conduct research. Degree-seekers can customize the program by choosing electives and pursuing independent research. Experiential learning opportunities, such as internships, help students gain skills they can apply to marketing careers. Institutional resources, such as tutoring and career counseling, prepare enrollees to succeed both academically and professionally.
Students at the school pay a tuition rate averaging $1,948 per credit for academic programs across majors. The institution's financial aid office helps prospective degree-seekers explore funding options, such as scholarships and grants. Of the school's students, 70% fund their education through financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$59,260
Out-of-state
$59,260
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$47,880
Out-of-state
$47,880
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
16%
Students Enrolled
46,287
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
89%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#6 Best Master’s Degrees in Marketing
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI
4 years
Online + Campus
University of Wisconsin-Madison is a public college that enrolls about 41,428 degree-seekers. The school educates learners in the marketing field through a master's in marketing program.
Enrollees gain the knowledge and skills necessary to qualify for new careers in marketing, along with raises and promotions. Learners develop specialized knowledge during advanced marketing classes, and they receive opportunities to conduct research. Academic advisors help degree-seekers customize the program based on their own specific professional goals. Enrollees can apply knowledge gained from coursework, including specialized electives, to hands-on experiences such as internships and research. The vibrant campus life, including school-sponsored events, supplement enrollees' educational experiences.
Financial aid counseling can help prospective graduate degree-seekers explore options for reducing out-of-pocket expenses. Some options include fellowships, scholarships, and grants. At the school, 58% of students fund their education through financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,273
Out-of-state
$37,161
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,728
Out-of-state
$24,054
Retention Rate
95%
Acceptance Rate
57%
Students Enrolled
44,640
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
93%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#7 Best Master’s Degrees in Marketing
University of Illinois Chicago
Chicago, IL
4 years
Online + Campus
Learners can attend classes at the University of Illinois Chicago's campus or online. The institution's population includes 32,929 students. The school offers 107 master's programs, including a master of science in marketing.
The coursework helps students prepare for careers in marketing. Learners gain transferable skills and prepare for positions in the field through classes and experiential learning opportunities. Degree-seekers consult with academic advisors to select courses based on their professional goals. On-campus enrollees benefit from the vibrant campus life, which includes clubs and events.
The school charges an average of $750 per credit for its academic programs. Financial aid counseling can help prospective graduate degree-seekers explore options for reducing out-of-pocket expenses, including fellowships, scholarships, and grants. Of the school's students, 85% fund their education through financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,105
Out-of-state
$26,726
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,799
Out-of-state
$23,714
Retention Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
73%
Students Enrolled
33,518
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
98%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#8 Best Master’s Degrees in Marketing
The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Alabama enrolls 34,134 learners both online and at the Tuscaloosa campus. Those interested in marketing can earn a master's degree from the school, which represents one of its 81 master's-level offerings.
Students can pursue the master's degree to qualify for positions in marketing after graduation. Learners take foundational courses and can pursue advanced marketing research. Degree-seekers can consult with academic advisors to select classes aligning with their interests and career goals. Hands-on experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and research, prepare students for positions in marketing and doctoral studies. The vibrant campus life, including school-sponsored events, supplement enrollees' educational experiences.
Master's degree-seekers can explore funding options with the help of the institution's financial aid counselors. At the school, 85% of students fund their education through financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,780
Out-of-state
$30,250
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,780
Out-of-state
$30,250
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
37,840
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
90%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Best Master’s Degrees in Marketing
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, MD
4 years
Online + Campus
Johns Hopkins University is a private institution offering on-campus and online programs in various fields. The school enrolls 25,479 students both online and on campus in Baltimore, Maryland. Learners can pursue a master of science in marketing, which is one of the school's 129 master's programs.
The program attracts students interested in launching marketing careers or advancing their current career in the field. In addition to core coursework, learners complete advanced studies in marketing to build their resume and prepare for high-level positions. Specialized electives allow degree-seekers to customize the program based on their goals and interests. Students complete research in the field and undertake internships to gain knowledge and skills necessary for marketing careers. In addition to offering institutional resources, such as tutoring and career counseling, the school maintains a vibrant campus community.
The school charges an average of $4,064 per credit for its academic programs. The institution's financial aid office helps prospective degree-seekers explore funding options, such as scholarships and grants. According to the school, 65% of students fund their education through financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$54,160
Out-of-state
$54,160
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$57,010
Out-of-state
$57,010
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
11%
Students Enrolled
28,890
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
88%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#10 Best Master’s Degrees in Marketing
Georgia State University
Atlanta, GA
4 years
Online + Campus
Georgia State University is a public institution offering online and on-campus academic programs in various fields. With a main campus in Atlanta, the institution educates 33,558 students through in-person and distance learning programs. While attending the school, learners can pursue 90 master's degrees, including a master's in marketing.
The curriculum emphasizes the skills and knowledge that marketing professionals use every day. Learners complete core coursework, which prepares them for high-level marketing opportunities during and after their studies. In addition to completing major courses, degree-seekers customize the curriculum by choosing electives. Through hands-on research projects, students gain practical skills they can apply to marketing positions after graduation. The school offers institutional resources and maintains a supportive on-campus community to help enrollees succeed.
Master's degree-seekers can explore funding options with the help of the institution's financial aid counselors. Of the school's students, 95% receive financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,158
Out-of-state
$22,389
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,164
Out-of-state
$22,662
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
36,360
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#11 Best Master’s Degrees in Marketing
Texas A&M University-College Station
College Station, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
Texas A&M University-College Station offers classes in person and online to its 23,188 students. The school's 126 master's programs span many disciplines, including marketing.
Graduates with a master's in marketing often pursue advanced careers in the field. The rigorous core curriculum prepares degree-seekers for the marketing field through foundational coursework and opportunities for advanced study. Degree-seekers consult with academic advisors to select classes aligning with their interests and career goals. Students apply knowledge gained from coursework, including specialized electives, to complete hands-on experiences such as internships and research. Enrollees benefit from institutional resources and a supportive campus community, both in person and online.
The institution's financial aid counselors help graduate degree-seekers secure funding through scholarship and fellowship programs, in addition to applying for federal aid. The school reports that about 81% of all students receive aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,395
Out-of-state
$36,849
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,775
Out-of-state
$19,048
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
63%
Students Enrolled
70,418
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
33%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#12 Best Master’s Degrees in Marketing
The University of Texas at Dallas
Richardson, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
A public institution, The University of Texas at Dallas educates learners in online and in-person formats. Based in Richardson, the school enrolls 27,260 students. Learners can pursue a master of science in marketing.
The program emphasizes the skills and knowledge that marketing professionals use every day. In addition to completing coursework, learners can participate in marketing internships to prepare for positions in the field. Degree-seekers can choose electives that align with their interests and professional goals. Hands-on experiential learning opportunities allow students to apply field-specific knowledge and skills to marketing research and practical work. The vibrant campus life, including school-sponsored events, supplement enrollees' educational experiences.
Financial aid counselors help graduate degree-seekers locate and apply for scholarships, grants, and fellowships. The school reports that 82% of its student body receives financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,992
Out-of-state
$38,970
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,560
Out-of-state
$28,610
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
28,669
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
95%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#13 Best Master’s Degrees in Marketing
DePaul University
Chicago, IL
4 years
Online + Campus
DePaul University is a private institution in Chicago that enrolls 21,594 degree-seekers. Learners can pursue 154 master's programs, including a master's in marketing.
The program emphasizes essential and advanced skills for marketing professionals. The rigorous curriculum features advanced marketing coursework. Degree-seekers can customize the program by choosing electives and pursuing independent research. They can also participate in hands-on learning opportunities such as internships. Enrollees can participate in on-campus events and can access support services such as tutoring and career counseling.
The institution's degree-seekers can reduce out-of-pocket expenses by applying for federal financial aid. Of the school's students, 98% fund their education through financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$40,551
Out-of-state
$40,551
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$19,370
Out-of-state
$19,370
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
70%
Students Enrolled
21,922
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
99%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#14 Best Master’s Degrees in Marketing
University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Arizona is a public institution that offers master’s programs both in person and online. Located in Tucson, the institution provides education to 25,329 students. Learners can choose from 148 master's programs, including a master of science in marketing.
Students who aspire to advanced careers in marketing can pursue the master's degree to qualify for positions in the field. Learners gain transferable skills and prepare for positions in the field during marketing classes and experiential learning opportunities. Degree-seekers can customize the curriculum based on their interests and professional goals. Students develop in-demand skills through hands-on learning experiences, such as internships in the marketing field, practicums, and supervised research. The school delivers institutional resources such as career counseling and provides opportunities for enrollees to participate in clubs and events.
The school's academic programs cost an average of $1,050 per credit. Financial aid counselors help graduate degree-seekers understand funding options, including scholarships and fellowships. At the school, 95% of students receive financial aid to fund their education.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,990
Out-of-state
$33,273
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,938
Out-of-state
$32,065
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
45,601
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
56%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#15 Best Master’s Degrees in Marketing
University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus
Denver, CO
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus is a public institution educating learners through academic programs in various fields. While many of the institution's 18,704 students pursue their degree on campus, many attend online classes. The school boasts 70 competitive master's programs in various fields, including marketing.
The master's in marketing appeals to students interested in launching marketing careers or advancing their current career in the field. Learners in the program take foundational courses and can pursue advanced marketing research. Many of the school's programs feature electives, allowing degree-seekers to tailor the curriculum to their professional goals. Hands-on learning opportunities are available to prepare marketing students to succeed in the workforce. Online and on-campus student support services include tutoring and career counseling, which help enrollees succeed academically and professionally.
The institution's financial aid office helps prospective graduate degree-seekers understand funding options and reduce out-of-pocket expenses. The school reports that 82% of its student body receives financial aid to fund their education.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,920
Out-of-state
$24,408
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,786
Out-of-state
$22,590
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
66%
Students Enrolled
24,723
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
76%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#16 Best Master’s Degrees in Marketing
Universidad Ana G. Mendez-Cupey Campus
San Juan, PR
4 years
Campus
Universidad Ana G. Mendez-Cupey Campus is a private institution with online and on-campus enrollment options. With 25 master's programs, the school educates graduate-level learners in fields such as marketing.
After earning the master in brand management and digital marketing, graduates often enter rewarding marketing careers. In addition to core coursework, learners complete advanced studies in marketing to build their resume and prepare for high-level positions. Degree-seekers can customize the program by choosing electives and pursuing independent research. Through hands-on research projects, students gain practical skills. Enrollees can participate in on-campus events and can access support services such as tutoring and career counseling.
The institution's financial aid office can help degree-seekers reduce the financial burden of obtaining a graduate education by securing funding through federal and private programs. The school reports that 100% of its students fund their education through at least some financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,920
Out-of-state
$4,920
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$2,652
Out-of-state
$2,652
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
8,893
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
1%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#17 Best Master’s Degrees in Marketing
Universidad Ana G. Mendez-Gurabo Campus
Gurabo, PR
4 years
Online + Campus
Universidad Ana G. Mendez-Gurabo Campus is a private institution with online and on-campus programs. Many of the institution's 1,585 students attend classes in an online format, while others attend classes in person at the Gurabo campus. While attending the school, learners can pursue 40 master's degrees in various fields.
The master's in marketing program provides an important foundation for marketing careers. The rigorous curriculum features specialized marketing classes, foundational core coursework, and opportunities to apply skills in practical settings. Academic advisors help degree-seekers select courses that will support their career aspirations. Through hands-on research projects, students gain practical skills they can apply to marketing positions after graduation. On-campus enrollees benefit from the vibrant campus life, which includes school-sponsored events.
Financial aid counseling can help prospective graduate degree-seekers explore options for reducing out-of-pocket expenses, including fellowships, scholarships, and grants. Of the school's students, 96% fund their education through financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,920
Out-of-state
$4,920
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$2,652
Out-of-state
$2,652
Retention Rate
76%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
13,553
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
12%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#18 Best Master’s Degrees in Marketing
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
Cincinnati, OH
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Cincinnati-Main Campus is a public institution with online and on-campus enrollment options. The Ohio-based institution enrolls 36,603 students. Learners can earn a master's in marketing from the school.
The program appeals to students pursuing a career in marketing or related fields. The rigorous curriculum features foundational and advanced marketing courses. Degree-seekers can customize the program by choosing electives and pursuing independent research. Hands-on research projects help students gain practical skills they can apply to marketing positions after graduation. The vibrant campus life, including school-sponsored events, supplement enrollees' educational experiences.
The school charges an average cost per credit of $732. The institution's financial aid office helps prospective graduate degree-seekers understand funding options and reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Around 93% of students obtain financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,723
Out-of-state
$25,057
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,224
Out-of-state
$24,966
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
40,826
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
90%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#19 Best Master’s Degrees in Marketing
Stony Brook University
Stony Brook, NY
4 years
Online + Campus
Stony Brook University is a public institution with programs available on campus and online. Based in Stony Brook, New York, the institution educates 24,029 students. Learners can choose from 86 master's programs, including a master of business administration in marketing.
The master's program emphasizes the skills and knowledge that marketing professionals use every day. The rigorous curriculum features both foundational and advanced marketing courses. Degree-seekers can receive career and curriculum advice from academic advisors. They can also collaborate with faculty advisors and pursue research, internships, and other experiential learning opportunities suitable to their career path. Institutional resources, such as tutoring and career counseling, prepare enrollees to succeed academically and professionally.
Degree-seekers can discuss funding options, including fellowships and federal aid, with the institution's qualified financial aid counselors. Approximately 76% of the school's students receive financial aid to fund their education.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,070
Out-of-state
$24,740
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,310
Out-of-state
$23,100
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
49%
Students Enrolled
26,782
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
90%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#20 Best Master’s Degrees in Marketing
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN
4 years
Online + Campus
Vanderbilt University is a private institution with around 11,264 students. It provides both online and on-campus enrollment options. Learners can pursue a master of marketing, which is one of the school's 107 master's programs.
The master's degree qualifies learners for positions in marketing after graduation. The curriculum comprises core coursework and advanced marketing classes. Research in the field and internships help emrollees to gain knowledge and skills necessary for future careers. Students can work with their academic advisor to customize their degree to suit their specific career trajectory. The school delivers institutional resources such as career counseling and provides opportunities for enrollees to participate in clubs and events.
Students pay a tuition rate averaging $2,050 per credit for academic programs across majors. The institution's financial aid counselors help graduate degree-seekers secure funding through scholarship and fellowship programs, in addition to applying for federal aid. Around 67% of students obtain financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$52,781
Out-of-state
$52,781
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$50,082
Out-of-state
$50,082
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
12%
Students Enrolled
13,537
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
83%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Why Get a Marketing Master’s Degree?
Earning a master's in marketing can make graduates competitive in the job market. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects jobs for marketing managers to grow 6% from 2022-2032. Professionals with a master's also typically earn more than those with only a bachelor's.
Students who pursue a master's in marketing degree online benefit from flexibility. Many online programs run asynchronously. This format lets students earn a degree while continuing their careers or raising a family. An online format also lets degree-seekers attend top programs without relocating.
Top master's in marketing degrees emphasize brand building, social media, and target audiences. Students complete core classes and choose a concentration. Options may include digital marketing and marketing research and analytics. New media and communication is another concentration.
See below for common classes in a marketing degree's core curriculum. Class names, topics, and academic expectations vary by school. Some of these differences affect learners' career paths. Students should research their prospective program in depth before applying. A school's admissions department can provide more information.
Brand Management: Students explore the art and science of building, developing, and maintaining successful brands with an emphasis on marketing strategy and decision-making. The course discusses techniques for conducting brand audits and enhancing brand equity, sustainability, and management strategies.
Effective Social Media: This course presents engagement, content creation, and analytics strategies to maximize a company's competitive advantage across social media platforms. Students learn to differentiate between a poorly or underdeveloped social media strategy and an effective strategy.
Consumer Behavior: Students delve into the psychological and sociological aspects driving consumer decisions. This course covers the theories behind which factors influence purchasing behaviors, along with best practices for forecasting and analyzing consumer demand.
Media Technologies and Communication Strategies: This course covers the role of new and traditional media in contemporary society. Students discover how to communicate effectively in modern media technology's complex and interconnected world.
Ethical and Legal Issues in Marketing: Students learn to recognize potential ethical or legal problems in marketing, navigate complex regulatory landscapes, and foster ethical decision-making. This course emphasizes developing strategies for responsible marketing that align with legal standards and consumer expectations.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average annual tuition for a master's degree in business, management, or marketing is $16,120. Students may reduce that price through scholarships, fellowships, or employer reimbursements.
Online learning can cost less than the national average, and students who attend accelerated programs may also be able to cut their total costs, simply by attending school for a shorter period of time.
Although most master's programs accept only a few transfer credits, these could also help shrink the total cost of your education.
How Much Do Marketing Graduates Make?
Many factors impact salary, including workers' roles and geographic locations. As of May 2022, advertising and promotions managers in Texas, California, and New York earn average annual salaries of $108,070-$194,240.
Higher education helps salary potential in many ways. For example, coursework and internships can improve graduates' resumes. This advantage may qualify them for raises or high-paying positions. Other benefits include mastering the latest industry best practices. This knowledge may make applicants more attractive to employers.
What Can You Do With a Master's in Marketing?
Graduates with a degree in marketing can explore many jobs. University career centers help learners by providing interest inventories, resume guides, and job boards. Advisors also offer advice during one-on-one sessions.
These high-level leaders work with other staff to develop and implement programs that generate consumer interest in a company's products or services. Modern marketing managers often emphasize digital communication and advertising.
Art Directors
Art directors take responsibility for the layout, design, and images in publications, packaging, websites, or TV. They may work for production firms, publishers, or marketing departments or firms. Many art directors are also experienced artists or designers.
Communications Manager
Communications managers manage their organization's public face and voice. They may work in business, manufacturing, healthcare, education, nonprofit, government, or another sector. These professionals often give interviews and speeches, attend public meetings, and host events. Publicists also publish press releases and engage with the media.
Public Relations | Publicist
Public relations managers are like communications managers, but for a person instead of a corporate entity. Publicists enhance their employers' public image. Said enhancement might sometimes place an emphasis on creating materials and coordinating campaigns.
Fundraising Managers
Similar to public relations managers, this role is about campaigning to generate funds. Fundraising managers often work for nonprofits. People in this role may need grant-writing skills, as well as proficiencies in networking and general marketing. This role may require certification.
Market Research Analysts
Market research analysts use data to identify consumer preferences, economic conditions, and other factors that affect consumer behavior. These professionals may forecast sales conditions, analyze data with statistical software, or determine potential pricing.
Advertising Sales Agents
Advertising sales agents sell advertising space in publications, digital spaces, or other locations. Now that the digital media landscape has self-service advertising platforms, the role of sales agent gets absorbed into executive duties.
Nevertheless, the role remains active. Ad sales agents still sell large high-end marketing packages to large clients, and curate advertising avenues for those who can afford it.
Salary and Career Outlook for Marketing Degree Graduates
More Questions About Graduate Degrees in Marketing
What job can I get with a master's in marketing?
A master's degree in marketing trains learners to improve their employer's brand. Graduates may work as brand managers or account managers.
How long does a master's in marketing take?
The answer depends on whether students enroll full-time or part-time. Full-time learners can earn a master's in two years. Part-time enrollees take longer. Accelerated programs help students graduate sooner.
Can I earn a master's in marketing in a year?
Yes. Accelerated programs help students earn a master's in marketing degree in one year. Learners can also graduate sooner by transferring credits.
Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by Accredited Schools Online. Page last reviewed February 11, 2024.
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