As social media becomes increasingly important across our global landscape, digital marketing grows alongside it as a lucrative and in-demand field, expected to experience faster-than-average growth over the next decade. For those aiming to pivot or advance their careers in this sector, pursuing a master’s in digital marketing can provide opportunities to secure advanced roles, including marketing managers, who earned a median salary of $140,040 in 2022.
These programs usually take 18 months to two years to complete, providing students with the strategic, analytical, and technological skills necessary to lead in the digital age. While the cost of these degrees varies based on factors like institution, location, and mode of study, the average cost of graduate education was $19,749 for the 2020-2021 academic year, representing a significant investment in future earning potential and career advancement.
How to Choose a Master’s in Digital Marketing Program
Choose your area of study
When considering schools, your first step should be to choose an area of specialization within your master’s in digital marketing. This decision can shape your career trajectory, ensuring your education aligns with your professional goals and interests.
Specialization options will vary by program but frequently range from SEO and content marketing, ideal for those fascinated by driving organic online engagement, to data analytics and visualization, designed for students keen on interpreting consumer data to inform marketing strategies. Others might opt for social media marketing or ecommerce marketing, focusing on leveraging digital platforms for brand growth.
Research schools and programs
Once you’ve chosen a specialization for your degree, you’ll want to dedicate ample time to researching schools and programs that align with your interests. Consider asking the following questions to guide your research:
- Does the program offer courses specific to my chosen specialization?
- What practical experiences, like internships or capstone projects, are included?
- How successful are graduates in securing jobs in my area of interest?
- What are the faculty’s credentials and industry connections?
Most programs make this information readily available on their websites, but don’t hesitate to contact an admissions counselor for more information. Many students also find attending open houses or information sessions beneficial.
Prepare for tests and applications
Now that you have a shortlist of schools, you’ll want to begin preparing for tests and applications early.
Start gathering application materials like transcripts and letters of recommendation at least two to three months in advance. Allocate sufficient time for writing your personal statement, reflecting on your career goals and how the program aligns with these. For programs requiring GRE scores, consider enrolling in a test prep program to improve your performance.
Select your program
When acceptance letters arrive, you may have a big decision to make. Start by focusing on what’s most crucial to your educational experience, such as curriculum relevance to your intended specialization, faculty you’re excited to learn from, and financial feasibility. Note each program’s financial aid opportunities and scholarships, as these can make paying for your degree more affordable.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Paying for your graduate degree without accruing significant debt involves exploring financial aid options strategically. Prioritize scholarships and grants, which don’t require repayment; although grants are more commonly awarded to undergraduates, there are scholarships specifically for graduate students.
Next, consider assistantships. These opportunities are often competitive but offer both tuition assistance and a stipend in exchange for teaching or research work. If applicable, look into employer tuition reimbursement programs, which can further offset costs. Use federal loans as a last resort to cover remaining expenses, as they offer more favorable terms to private loans, ensuring a more thoughtful financial approach to funding your education.
Best 50 Accredited Master’s in Digital Marketing Programs
How we rank schools
This list covers graduate programs in digital marketing that teach students advanced concepts in social media, search engine optimization, and conversion optimization. The degree types offered include Master of Business Administration in digital marketing, Master of Science in marketing, Master of Science in marketing research and analytics, Master of Science in digital marketing and media, and Master of Arts in digital marketing.
All of the institutions on this list are approved by a DOE-recognized regional accrediting organization, such as the New England Commission of Higher Education or Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. These organizations evaluate schools to ensure they provide students with a high-quality education. Those who attend a school that isn’t regionally accredited may be unable to access financial aid or transfer credits to another institution if needed.
We evaluated each program on the basis of flexibility, faculty, course strength, cost, and reputation. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score for each program on a scale from 0 to 100. For a more extensive explanation, check out Our Ranking Methodology.
What Can You Expect From a Master’s in Digital Marketing Program?
A master’s in digital marketing degree program offers an in-depth exploration of digital marketing, often encompassing search engine optimization (SEO), social media marketing, content strategy, and analytics. Usually completed in one to two years, the program provides students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for navigating the quickly evolving digital world.
Beyond regular coursework, most programs incorporate a capstone course or project, requiring students to apply their learning in a comprehensive, real-world scenario. This final requirement ensures graduates understand digital marketing principles and can implement them effectively, preparing them for successful careers in the digital sphere.
Potential courses you’ll take in a master’s in digital marketing program
- SEO and Content Marketing: In this course, students delve into search engine optimization (SEO) and content marketing, learning techniques to improve website visibility and drive engagement. Syllabi typically covers keyword research, content creation strategies, and analytics to measure content effectiveness, providing students with skills to enhance a company or brand’s online presence.
- Social Media Marketing: This course focuses on leveraging social media platforms to build brand awareness and engage with consumers. Students learn how to create compelling content, develop social media campaigns, and analyze their impact, understanding the role of social media in the broader marketing context.
- Data Analytics and Visualization: Understanding data is crucial in digital marketing. This course teaches students how to collect, analyze, and interpret relevant data. They also learn about multiple analytical tools and methods for visualizing data, enabling them to make informed decisions based on real-world data insights.
- E-commerce Marketing: Students explore the dynamics of online sales and digital marketplaces, learning strategies to optimize e-commerce operations. These courses may cover journey mapping, conversion rate optimization, and the use of digital technologies to improve the online shopping experience.
Master’s in Digital Marketing Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to a master's in digital marketing degree program?
The process may vary between schools, but many programs share similar admissions criteria — including the following:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- A minimum GPA
- Academic transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- A personal statement
While some programs have adopted test-optional policies in the wake of COVID-19, others may still require GRE scores. Speaking with an admissions counselor before applying is essential to understanding specific requirements and optimizing your application to ensure it aligns with the program’s expectations.
How much does a master's in digital marketing degree cost?
The cost of this degree varies, but for the 2020-2021 academic year, the average graduate tuition was $19,749. However, it’s essential to prepare for additional expenses — such as housing, commuting, textbooks, course materials, and facility fees. These costs can add up over time and often aren’t reflected in a program’s tuition fees, so you’ll want to factor in these figures accordingly.
How long does it take to earn a master's in digital marketing degree?
Achieving your master’s in digital marketing takes 18 months to two years for full-time students and three to four years for part-time students.
Full-time enrollment allows quicker completion and immersion in the subject, which is ideal for those with more time to devote to their studies. Alternatively, part-time enrollment offers flexibility for individuals balancing work or family commitments, though it extends the time to degree completion.
It’s also important to note the total number of required credits, as this significantly influences the duration. Generally speaking, programs with more credits take longer to complete.