Online Master's Degree in Marketing - Best of 2024

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Why Earn a Master’s in Marketing (MMkt)?

While you can get into marketing with an online or traditional associate or bachelor’s marketing degree, you’ll find it easier to work your way into management or department head positions with a master’s in marketing. You might even find that, with a master’s, you rate opportunities in the C-suites of larger corporations. An online master's degree will prepare you for the challenges associated with business management, which will pair well with a bachelor’s in the same field, business, or even finance. If you are looking to earn a master’s after gaining experience in the real world, you might even find that your experience translates into credit hours. Many schools offer credit hours to students for real world experience, especially those that offer business degrees. Make sure you check out all your opportunities, from both on-campus and online master's in marketing, in order to make sure you are getting everything you can out of your master's program.

PROS

A master's in marketing in the marketing field is essential for any individual seeking a managerial, executive, or C-level position within the profession. In fact, the marketing field is becoming so competitive that many companies require a marketing master’s degree or a master of business administration (MBA) focused on market research, marketing management, brand management, global marketing, etc. for any management position. At the moment, there are so many intricate aspects in the field, from marketing analytics to the constant changes in online search engine optimization algorithms for page rankings, that only individuals with a higher degree are truly qualified to lead marketing teams and departments as marketing managers. With a traditional or online master’s degree, you will also be more qualified for positions over people with a bachelor’s degree, and you will be able to make a significantly higher salary than them. Such a degree will also make it possible to complete professional and organizational certifications that require you to have completed a master’s marketing program and are seen as necessary continuing education for career advancement and experienced marketing professionals.

CONS

One of the biggest potential cons is the chance that you don’t make your investment in the master's degree back from salary increases. Some of the most prestigious marketing programs offer an online master’s for $50,000 or more. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the pay increase from a bachelor’s degree to a Master of Science in Marketing is an average of $12,000. If your job market does not pay well enough and you do not plan to move to a more competitive and higher-paying market, taking on $50,000 or more in debt may not be wise. Another potential drawback is the amount of time it takes to complete, particularly if you have full-time obligations to work, the community, or home. Many people find the balance to be too difficult and never complete the master's degree, even if they are taking the degree online. Although, by earning an online master's in marketing, you can work at your own pace and complete the program in a longer period of time. While the benefits of a master’s in marketing are significant, you have to decide whether this higher level marketing degree is right for you.

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Top 25 Best Online Masters in Marketing Programs

Johns Hopkins University

Score: 93.26

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $62,840
- Out-of-State: $62,840
Net Price: $24,034
Acceptance Rate: 7%
Retention Rate: 97%

Graduation Rate: 94%
Total Enrollment: 31,275
Undergrad Students: 6,044
Graduate Students: 25,231
Grads Salary: $94,000
Student-to-faculty: 6:1

Boston University

Score: 85.37

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $63,798
- Out-of-State: $63,798
Net Price: $27,829
Acceptance Rate: 14%
Retention Rate: 94%

Graduation Rate: 89%
Total Enrollment: 36,714
Undergrad Students: 18,459
Graduate Students: 18,255
Grads Salary: $85,000
Student-to-faculty: 11:1

William & Mary

Score: 83.52

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,905
- Out-of-State: $29,352
Net Price: $25,688
Acceptance Rate: 33%
Retention Rate: 95%

Graduation Rate: 91%
Total Enrollment: 9,654
Undergrad Students: 6,797
Graduate Students: 2,857
Grads Salary: $80,000
Student-to-faculty: 12:1

Rutgers University-New Brunswick

Score: 82.47

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $19,824
- Out-of-State: $33,720
Net Price: $17,535
Acceptance Rate: 66%
Retention Rate: 92%

Graduation Rate: 84%
Total Enrollment: 50,637
Undergrad Students: 36,344
Graduate Students: 14,293
Grads Salary: $81,000
Student-to-faculty: 15:1

Santa Clara University

Score: 79.39

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $25,873
- Out-of-State: $25,873
Net Price: $50,551
Acceptance Rate: 52%
Retention Rate: 92%

Graduation Rate: 89%
Total Enrollment: 9,178
Undergrad Students: 6,115
Graduate Students: 3,063
Grads Salary: $96,000
Student-to-faculty: 12:1

Indiana University-Bloomington

Score: 78.68

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,133
- Out-of-State: $31,932
Net Price: $16,234
Acceptance Rate: 82%
Retention Rate: 90%

Graduation Rate: 81%
Total Enrollment: 47,005
Undergrad Students: 35,660
Graduate Students: 11,345
Grads Salary: $76,000
Student-to-faculty: 17:1

Michigan State University

Score: 77.41

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $20,808
- Out-of-State: $40,884
Net Price: $22,803
Acceptance Rate: 88%
Retention Rate: 89%

Graduation Rate: 82%
Total Enrollment: 50,023
Undergrad Students: 39,201
Graduate Students: 10,822
Grads Salary: $79,000
Student-to-faculty: 17:1

Rutgers University-Newark

Score: 77.28

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $19,824
- Out-of-State: $33,720
Net Price: $16,578
Acceptance Rate: 74%
Retention Rate: 82%

Graduation Rate: 66%
Total Enrollment: 11,017
Undergrad Students: 7,511
Graduate Students: 3,506
Grads Salary: $82,000
Student-to-faculty: 13:1

Yeshiva University

Score: 77.08

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $34,800
- Out-of-State: $34,800
Net Price: $35,912
Acceptance Rate: 63%
Retention Rate: 92%

Graduation Rate: 85%
Total Enrollment: 6,056
Undergrad Students: 2,866
Graduate Students: 3,190
Grads Salary: $80,000
Student-to-faculty: 7:1

The University of Texas at Dallas

Score: 76.82

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $15,088
- Out-of-State: $29,468
Net Price: $13,555
Acceptance Rate: 85%
Retention Rate: 87%

Graduation Rate: 70%
Total Enrollment: 31,570
Undergrad Students: 21,617
Graduate Students: 9,953
Grads Salary: $81,000
Student-to-faculty: 27:1

Regis University

Score: 76.41

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $14,573
- Out-of-State: $14,573
Net Price: $26,377
Acceptance Rate: 76%
Retention Rate: 72%

Graduation Rate: 67%
Total Enrollment: 4,668
Undergrad Students: 2,398
Graduate Students: 2,270
Grads Salary: $89,000
Student-to-faculty: 9:1

Molloy University

Score: 76.1

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $24,930
- Out-of-State: $24,930
Net Price: $27,243
Acceptance Rate: 77%
Retention Rate: 85%

Graduation Rate: 69%
Total Enrollment: 4,807
Undergrad Students: 3,271
Graduate Students: 1,536
Grads Salary: $85,000
Student-to-faculty: 10:1

Florida International University

Score: 75.7

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,119
- Out-of-State: $21,600
Net Price: $9,881
Acceptance Rate: 64%
Retention Rate: 91%

Graduation Rate: 69%
Total Enrollment: 55,609
Undergrad Students: 45,688
Graduate Students: 9,921
Grads Salary: $71,000
Student-to-faculty: 24:1

Oregon State University

Score: 74.99

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $13,446
- Out-of-State: $29,349
Net Price: $21,163
Acceptance Rate: 83%
Retention Rate: 87%

Graduation Rate: 70%
Total Enrollment: 34,292
Undergrad Students: 28,905
Graduate Students: 5,387
Grads Salary: $80,000
Student-to-faculty: 19:1

Brandeis University

Score: 74.98

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $61,458
- Out-of-State: $61,458
Net Price: $45,565
Acceptance Rate: 39%
Retention Rate: 92%

Graduation Rate: 87%
Total Enrollment: 5,581
Undergrad Students: 3,687
Graduate Students: 1,894
Grads Salary: $80,000
Student-to-faculty: 10:1

Southern Methodist University

Score: 74.85

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $31,590
- Out-of-State: $31,590
Net Price: $45,094
Acceptance Rate: 52%
Retention Rate: 90%

Graduation Rate: 82%
Total Enrollment: 12,053
Undergrad Students: 7,056
Graduate Students: 4,997
Grads Salary: $85,000
Student-to-faculty: 11:1

University of Houston

Score: 74.42

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $8,723
- Out-of-State: $18,083
Net Price: $14,056
Acceptance Rate: 66%
Retention Rate: 85%

Graduation Rate: 63%
Total Enrollment: 46,700
Undergrad Students: 37,943
Graduate Students: 8,757
Grads Salary: $76,000
Student-to-faculty: 21:1

Temple University

Score: 74.11

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $21,042
- Out-of-State: $27,555
Net Price: $23,935
Acceptance Rate: 80%
Retention Rate: 84%

Graduation Rate: 78%
Total Enrollment: 33,196
Undergrad Students: 24,106
Graduate Students: 9,090
Grads Salary: $73,000
Student-to-faculty: 12:1

Texas Tech University

Score: 73.35

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $6,956
- Out-of-State: $15,356
Net Price: $17,896
Acceptance Rate: 67%
Retention Rate: 86%

Graduation Rate: 64%
Total Enrollment: 40,378
Undergrad Students: 32,579
Graduate Students: 7,799
Grads Salary: $76,000
Student-to-faculty: 21:1

Saint Joseph's University

Score: 73.33

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $19,786
- Out-of-State: $19,786
Net Price: $33,777
Acceptance Rate: 89%
Retention Rate: 86%

Graduation Rate: 82%
Total Enrollment: 7,861
Undergrad Students: 5,071
Graduate Students: 2,790
Grads Salary: $77,000
Student-to-faculty: 10:1

Texas A&M University-Commerce

Score: 72.73

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,630
- Out-of-State: $11,196
Net Price: $13,025
Acceptance Rate: 86%
Retention Rate: 65%

Graduation Rate: 43%
Total Enrollment: 11,306
Undergrad Students: 7,383
Graduate Students: 3,923
Grads Salary: $91,000
Student-to-faculty: 20:1

Concordia University-Wisconsin

Score: 72.46

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,960
- Out-of-State: $12,960
Net Price: $24,485
Acceptance Rate: 70%
Retention Rate: 78%

Graduation Rate: 66%
Total Enrollment: 4,988
Undergrad Students: 2,817
Graduate Students: 2,171
Grads Salary: $77,000
Student-to-faculty: 11:1

The University of Alabama

Score: 72.4

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $11,100
- Out-of-State: $32,400
Net Price: $20,592
Acceptance Rate: 80%
Retention Rate: 87%

Graduation Rate: 73%
Total Enrollment: 38,644
Undergrad Students: 32,458
Graduate Students: 6,186
Grads Salary: $71,000
Student-to-faculty: 19:1

Fairleigh Dickinson University-Metropolitan

Score: 72.33

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $17,418
- Out-of-State: $17,418
Net Price: $16,030
Acceptance Rate: 84%
Retention Rate: 76%

Graduation Rate: 51%
Total Enrollment: 7,285
Undergrad Students: 5,380
Graduate Students: 1,905
Grads Salary: $82,000
Student-to-faculty: 13:1

Messiah University

Score: 72.07

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $13,590
- Out-of-State: $13,590
Net Price: $24,120
Acceptance Rate: 79%
Retention Rate: 86%

Graduation Rate: 78%
Total Enrollment: 3,231
Undergrad Students: 2,495
Graduate Students: 736
Grads Salary: $68,000
Student-to-faculty: 13:1

Types of Online Degrees Available for Master's

What Online Marketing Master’s Degrees are Available?

Marketing is a hugely popular and competitive job market and, as such, colleges and universities have capitalized on the need for higher online marketing degrees. You will find both traditional marketing degrees and progressive online master’s programs that offer several online degree options in less time, such as those with available concentrations in marketing research, marketing strategy and consumer behavior, or marketing communications. Some of these options are available through online learning platforms.

Master of Arts (MA) in Marketing:
Because marketing is a creative field with social science influences, MA in marketing programs are available in some colleges and universities. You will likely focus more on communication, writing, content, visuals, and psychology than in other marketing master’s degree programs.
Master of Science in Marketing:
A Master of Science in Marketing or MS in Marketing will place more importance on the technical and analytical aspects of marketing than an MA program. You will gain experience with marketing tools, critical thinking, data analysis, different types of strategies, and the program may require the completion of an internship before you can graduate.
Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Marketing:
An MBA in Marketing is also referred to as an MBA with a marketing major, emphasis, concentration, or specialization. The title simply depends on the college or university and does not change the nature of the program in general. The difference between a Master of Science in marketing and an MBA in Marketing is that the MBA program provides a specialization in marketing with a greater emphasis on marketing management and high-level business concepts at the same time.
Master’s Degree in Marketing to MBA dual degree program:
Today, as colleges and universities attempt to solidify a greater market share of those who seek a master’s degree in marketing, many higher learning institutions are beginning to provide a dual degree program that combines both a Master’s Degree in Marketing and an MBA in Marketing. These programs minimize the time and cost it would take to complete both degrees and provide you with the best of both programs as required by exceptional marketing professionals.

Admission Requirements for a MS in Marketing

Most online marketing master’s degree programs will examine several aspects of your personal, academic, and professional life to determine your acceptance status. They will examine your undergraduate marketing degree GPA, whether or not you have any relevant work experience as a full-time employee or through an internship, your short-term and long-term goals, any community service and extracurricular participation, your communications skills, and your potential leadership capabilities. Some schools may even require the completion of a graduate school entrance exam with a minimum score to be determined by the program. Each college and university will have unique requirements including completing your bachelor's degree. Often times, the more reputable the program the more stringent and grueling the application and admissions process. This is the same for an online master's degree; don't think that, just because you're planning to attend an online program, your admissions will be significantly less rigorous.

How long does it take to earn a Marketing Master’s?

The time it takes to complete an online master’s degree in marketing will greatly depend on the amount of time you are able to commit to the marketing program each term. If you can dedicate yourself to a classroom-based, fast-paced marketing program, you can complete a marketing master’s degree in as little as 10 months. The vast majority of online marketing degree programs at this level take between one and two years. An online master's marketing program may take longer despite requiring fewer credits in some cases, particularly if you must dedicate most of your time to work, family, or your community. Keep in mind that regardless of the length of time it takes to complete an online master degree, many employers will reimburse you for your continued education as long as you enroll in an accredited program from an approved college or university and maintain a certain GPA.

Search Programs Offering Marketing Majors

Your courses, no matter what background you come from, will be the same. Here are just some of the subjects those looking to work as marketing managers or other high-level marketing professionals are likely to study in a Master of Science in Marketing online program.

Marketing Research/Market Research
Consumer Behavior
Marketing Strategy
Integrated Marketing Communications
Marketing Management
Global Marketing
Brand Management
Marketing Analytics
Strategic Marketing
Marketing Metrics
Marketing Plans Development
Digital Marketing

Potential Careers with a MS in Marketing

Director of Sales and Marketing:
As a director of sales and marketing you will be responsible for executing product, service, and marketing development initiatives. It will be your job to think strategically in both the short-term and the long-term and to delegate responsibilities.
Typical Education Required: Master's in Marketing
Median Salary: $83,300
Social Media Marketing Manager:
A social media marketing manager is responsible for the overall social media marketing program campaigns, the execution of company directives, and the analyzing of those results. You must determine the efforts that work and those that do not.
Typical Education Required: Master's in Marketing
Median Salary: $52,600
Public Relations (PR) Director:
A public relations director might work for a PR company, a corporation, a non-profit, a government entity, a sports team, start their own firm, or more. In this position, it is your job to establish relationships with influential sources to project the best image of your employer or client as possible.
Typical Education Required: Master's in Marketing
Median Salary: $85,900
Chief Marketing Officer (CMO):
A CMO is becoming more and more commonplace in the business world. As a C-level executive, you will address the high-level issues of marketing strategies and initiatives. You will determine the message of the organization and the brand directives that are to be followed exactly.
Typical Education Required: Master's in Marketing or PhD
Median Salary: $174,000
Vice President (VP) of Marketing:
As a VP of marketing, you are likely to be responsible for the spending and budgeting of the entire department. You might also spend much of your time reviewing the success and failures of campaigns and you must have a solid understanding of all marketing methodologies both a traditional and a digital marketing program.
Typical Education Required: Master's in Marketing or PhD
Median Salary: $148,600

Options to Advance

Marketing is one of the most competitive and necessary fields in business today due to the introduction of digital marketing and marketing research. The most effective marketing strategies use psychology, which is the analysis of human behavior, as a basis for successful marketing program campaigns. If you wish to reach the highest levels of career aspirations in the marketing profession, you should complete a PhD or a doctorate. Such a marketing degree will allow you to understand human behavior to the highest degree and ensure that you use psychological strategies ethically, legally and, respectfully. You will only succeed in this profession as long as you are following the rules of human decency and do not cross the line. A master’s degree, a PhD, or an alternative doctorate will help you learn how to keep within ethical and legal boundaries and to become an industry leader as a vice president or a chief marketing officer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the requirements for a master’s degree in marketing?

There can be a huge disparity between the requirements for one program and another. Each university decides itself what it wants from it’s students, so you might find some programs where you can easily gain admission and others where you need another year of work experience or to complete a couple prerequisite courses before you can even apply. However, there are some requirements that tend to be the same from program to program. Here are just some of those.

A bachelor's degree from an accredited university, usually in in a business-related field such as marketing, business administration, or management or a significant amount of relevant experience.
A minimum GPA in a previous program. This is often around a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, though this also varies.
Some programs may require applicants to submit scores from standardized tests such as the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).
Programs may require applicants to have relevant work experience to gain admission.
Most programs will require applicants to submit essays or personal statements as part of the application process. These are used to evaluate an applicant's goals, background, and fit with the program.
Some programs require that applicants submit letters of recommendation from professors or supervisors on their qualifications and potential for success.

Best Online Masters in Marketing Degrees for 2024