University Headquarters (HQ) is an industry-leading, independent educational organization that provides independent college rankings using a proprietary formula to create first class, unbiased rankings. The team at University HQ strives to provide accurate and trustworthy rankings that highlight the best programs for marketing in Alabama.
What is Marketing?
More and more college students are interested in marketing programs. And colleges and universities are offering more marketing degree programs to meet the demand. Because of this, students can choose from a variety of marketing colleges and degree programs.
With so many marketing programs to choose from, how do you know which one is right for you? The first step is to decide what type of marketing you want to study. There are many types of marketing such as digital, social media, print, TV, radio, word of mouth, public relations, and even stealth marketing. You might be more interested in one kind vs the others, and it’s important to let this help you make your decision of what college program to attend.
No matter what type of college you choose, you will need to complete general education courses before you can begin taking marketing courses. These courses will give you a foundation in the liberal arts and sciences, which will help you succeed in your marketing classes. Once you have completed your general education requirements, you will take classes focused on marketing principles and strategies. You will learn about advertising, public relations, market research, and consumer behavior. You will also have the opportunity to take elective courses in areas such as digital marketing and sales management.
Featured Online Programs
Online Marketing Education in Alabama
A marketing professional is someone who helps companies and businesses promote and sell their products or services. Marketing professionals use their skills in market research, advertising, public relations, and sales to create campaigns that will generate interest in a company’s products or services. There are four main factors involved in marketing your product to customers: product, price, place, and promotion. Product marketing is all about creating the right product for the right customer. It involves research, development, and testing. Price marketing is all about setting the right price for the right product. Promotion marketing is all about getting the word out about your product or service. Place marketing is all about making sure your product or service is available in the right place at the right time. New marketing theories leave space for even more factors such as people, processes, and physical evidence.
Marketing is a broad field and there are many different types of marketing jobs. Some marketing professionals may specialize in one area, such as advertising or public relations, while others may work in all areas of marketing. There are also many different levels of marketing jobs, from entry-level positions to senior management roles.
To become a marketing professional, you are likely to need at least a bachelor’s degree in marketing or a related field. Many marketing jobs also require experience in the field, so focusing on completing an internship in marketing before graduation can be helpful.
Online Associate Degree in Marketing Degree (AS)
An associate marketing degree can provide students with the foundational knowledge and skills needed to pursue a career in marketing, though you’ll also need to be lucky, have an excellent portfolio, and/or be willing to work in a smaller firm in order to find an entry-level job with just an associate degree. Marketing colleges and universities offer programs that introduce students to the concepts and methods of marketing including market research, advertising, and product promotion.
With an associate degree in marketing, students can develop the ability to think critically about consumer behavior and identify trends in the marketplace. They will also gain practical experience in creating marketing campaigns and evaluating their effectiveness. Graduates should be prepared to pursue entry-level positions in marketing and related fields.
National online rankings - Learn moreOnline Bachelors Degree in Marketing (BS)
Abachelor's marketing degree can lead to a variety of interesting and lucrative careers. This is the accepted entry-level degree for the field and, by studying marketing, you'll learn how to identify customer needs and desires and then create products or services that meet those needs. You'll also learn how to develop marketing campaigns, track results, and analyze data to continually improve your strategies.
With a bachelor's degree in marketing, you could pursue a career in advertising, market research, public relations, or sales management. Many large companies have entire departments devoted to marketing, so there are many opportunities for advancement within an organization. And, because marketing is essential to the success of any business, job security is usually good for those with marketing degrees.
National online rankings - Learn moreOnline Masters Degree in Marketing (MS)
Getting a master's in marketing degree is a great way to enhance your career options in the marketing industry. You will have the opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of the consumer behavior and strategic processes that drive business. You will also learn how to implement your marketing strategy and market your business effectively. Whether you are looking to get into advertising, public relations, retailing or sports marketing, a marketing degree will help you reach your career goals. And an MBA with a concentration in marketing can even prepare you for the C-suites.
If you're interested in getting your master's in marketing degree online, you can consider programs from across the country. There are a huge number of universities that offer online programs in marketing. These programs are designed for those who want to work in the field but aren't able to attend classes on campus and they teach students how to conduct marketing campaigns and how to price products just as effectively as those on-campus alternatives. Some schools also offer weekly online collaborative class sessions.
Some of the top marketing colleges in the country offer both full-time and part-time degree programs, with many also offering online and on-campus options. These degrees typically take about two semesters and around 60 credit hours to complete. The classes are divided into core and elective courses. Electives might include marketing analytics, digital advertising, and consumer behavior, though the exact curriculum will depend on what school or program you choose.
National online rankings - Learn moreOnline PhD Degree in Marketing (PhD)
Obtaining a PhD or doctorate degree in marketing is a challenging intellectual journey. It may take three to seven years to complete. The curriculum is highly research-intensive, and the degree provides advanced skills in research and writing.
During the first year or two, marketing PhD students take coursework and are often guided to select a specialization area. Most programs allow students to focus on any area in which they have an interest, though you’ll want to choose a program that already offers specializations close to your area of interest because they will have faculty with knowledge in that area. Once the student has decided on a specialization area, they will usually work with a faculty member to develop an original research project.
After completing coursework, PhD students conduct research and write a dissertation. Dissertation research is defended, and the final result is often published in a major academic journal. During their first year, students may also take academic field seminars, in which they explore a marketing-related topic with a faculty member.
UniversityHQ resources and scholarships guide for marketing View our paying for college guideOnline Marketing Certifications
There are many marketing certifications available to professionals in the field. Earning a certification can help marketers stand out in the job market and demonstrate their expertise to potential employers.
There are several different types of marketing certifications available. Some certifications focus on general marketing principles, while others focus on specific areas such as digital marketing or social media marketing. There are also certifications available for specific job roles, such as marketing managers or copywriters, and certifications that are product-specific, showing that you have skills with particular software.
The process of earning a certification typically involves passing an exam and meeting other requirements set by the certification body. Many certifications must be renewed periodically, usually every few years.
Become a Marketing Manager in Alabama
Whether you’re a recent college graduate or looking to change careers, a career in marketing may be the right choice for you. Marketing is a versatile field that offers many opportunities. Here are four steps on how to become a marketing professional.
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Step 1: Get a degree in marketing or a related field
Marketing is one of the most important aspects of any business. It's the process of creating and delivering messages that promote products or services. Without effective marketing, businesses wouldn't be able to survive. There are many marketing colleges and degree programs available. Choosing the right one can be difficult, but it's important to select a program that will give you the skills and knowledge you need to be successful. Some things to consider when selecting a marketing college or degree program include accreditation, curriculum, faculty, cost, and location. With so many options available, taking the time to research each school is essential. Once you've selected a school, getting a degree in marketing or a related field will help you launch a successful career in this exciting field.
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Step 2: Start working in the industry, even if it’s not in marketing specifically
Marketing is a vast and ever-changing industry that offers many opportunities for those with a passion for the field. However, it’s important to remember that not all marketing jobs are created equal. There are many different facets to marketing, from advertising and public relations to market research and sales. While most marketing jobs will require some knowledge of all these areas, it’s important to specialize in one or two if you want to be truly successful in the field. The best way to learn about marketing is to get out there and start working in the industry, even if you can’t find a job in marketing specifically. Many entry-level business jobs will give you knowledge that you could later apply to marketing.
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Step 3: Network and build relationships with people in the industry
Building relationships is a key element of marketing, whether you’re working in-house or at an agency. To be successful, you need to network and build relationships with people in the industry. One of the best ways to network is to attend industry events. These events give you the opportunity to meet potential clients and partners and learn about the latest trends in your field. Another great way to build relationships is to get involved with trade associations and professional organizations. These groups can help you connect with other professionals in your industry, and they can provide valuable resources and networking opportunities.
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Step 4: Keep up with the latest trends and technologies in marketing
As a marketing professional, it’s important to keep up with the latest trends and technologies. There are many ways to stay current such as attending conferences and seminars, reading trade publications, and networking with other professionals. The landscape of marketing is constantly changing, so it’s important to be adaptable and open to new ideas. As a marketing professional, you need to be able to think outside the box to come up with creative solutions to problems.
What Can I Do with a Bachelor's in Marketing?
A bachelor's degree in marketing can open up a variety of paths for those looking to pursue a career in the marketing field. From entry-level positions to executive roles, individuals with a bachelor's degree in marketing can apply their skills and knowledge to a range of industries. Whether you’re looking to break into advertising or create content for social media campaigns, there are plenty of ways you can use your marketing education. For starters, graduates with a bachelor's degree in marketing have an array of opportunities available. For example, they could work as market research analysts or digital marketers, analyzing consumer data and developing strategies for potential customers. Additionally, they might be able to join the team at an advertising agency, helping with creative campaigns and managing budgets. Finally, they may even explore positions such as brand ambassadors or product managers who oversee the design and development of new products.
Potential Careers for Marketing Graduates
Marketing Specialist or Manager:
As a marketing professional, you'll need to be able to understand and interpret your customers' needs and develop creative campaigns that address those needs while also supporting your company's sales goals. Your responsibilities will include planning and executing marketing programs, conducting market research, managing budgets, and developing and managing promotional materials. To be successful in this role, you'll need strong communication and project management skills, as well as the ability to think creatively and work well under pressure.
Necessary Requirements:
- Strong communication skills
- Project management skills
- Creative thinking
- Ability to work well under pressure
Estimated Salary
- The mean annual wage for marketing managers in the US in 2021 was $153,440 The mean annual wage for marketing managers in Alabama is $122,370
Special Events Manager:
A special events manager will be responsible for coordinating and executing all aspects of assigned special events. This includes but is not limited to developing event concepts and proposals, negotiating contracts, working with vendors, managing budgets, developing timelines, and ensuring events run smoothly on the day of.
Necessary Requirements:
- Proven experience coordinating and executing successful special events
- Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work well under pressure and meet deadlines
- Creativity and resourcefulness
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for meeting, convention, and event planners in the US in 2021 was $49,470
- The mean annual wage for meeting, convention, and event planners in Alabama is $48,510
Social Media Manager:
A social media manager will be responsible for creating and managing social media content across all platforms. They will collaborate with the marketing team to create campaigns and strategies that align with business objectives, and they will also be responsible for monitoring social media metrics to measure the success of campaigns.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in marketing, communications, or a related field
- 2-4 years of experience in social media management
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Experience with social media analytics tools
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for advertising and promotions managers in the US in 2021 was $133,380
- The mean annual wage for advertising and promotions managers in Alabama is $110,250
Operations Manager:
An operations manager is responsible for the overall operations of the company. They develop and implement strategies to improve efficiency and effectiveness. They also oversee the production, distribution, and customer service departments.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in business administration or related field
- 5+ years of experience in a managerial role
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Estimated Salary
- The mean annual wage for general and operations managers in the US in 2021 was $115,250
- The mean annual wage for general and operations managers in Alabama is $113,350
Merchandising Manager:
A merchandising manager is responsible for planning and executing all aspects of the company's merchandising strategy. This includes developing new product lines, managing inventory, overseeing product development, and working with vendors and retailers. They must be highly organized and have excellent communication and negotiation skills.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in business, marketing, or related field
- 5+ years of experience in merchandising or retail management
- Strong communication and negotiation skills
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for purchasing managers, buyers, and purchasing agents in the US in 2021 was $75,410
- The mean annual wage for purchasing managers in Alabama is $115,650
Media Buyer:
A media buyer is responsible for the planning and purchasing of advertising space across all channels. They work with advertising agencies and clients to negotiate rates, secure ad placements, and track campaign results.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in advertising, marketing, or related field
- 2-4 years of experience in media buying or planning
- Strong analytical and research skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skill
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for buyers and purchasing agents in the US in 2021 was $72,540
- The mean annual wage for buyers and purchasing agents in Alabama is $69,330
Marketing Research Analyst:
A marketing research analyst will be responsible for conducting market research and analysis to support marketing initiatives. This will include identifying target markets, conducting surveys and focus groups, and analyzing data to understand customer needs and preferences. They will also develop marketing plans and strategies based on their findings.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in marketing, market research, or a related field
- 2-4 years of experience in market research or a related field
- Strong analytical skills
- Excellent communication and presentation skills
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for market research analysts in the US in 2021 was $63,920
- The mean annual wage for market research analysts and marketing specialists in Alabama is $61,800