An MBA in marketing can be a strategic choice for those aiming to amplify their job prospects and stand out in the competitive marketplace. These programs prepare students for high-demand roles, including marketing managers, who earn an average salary of $158,280 — over three times the median salary for all occupations in the United States.
Full-time students can complete their MBA in two years, while part-time students may take three to four years, depending on their schedule. With the average cost of these programs at $19,749 for the 2020-2021 academic year, investing in an MBA in marketing elevates your career trajectory and offers a significant return on investment by providing you with the skills and knowledge to be a leader in this field.
Why Trust Us
The Intelligent.com Higher Education Team is dedicated to providing students with independent, equitable school and program rankings and well-researched resources. Our expert-driven articles cover topics related to online colleges and programs, paying for school, and career outlooks. We use data from the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard, the National Center for Education Statistics, and other reputable educational and professional organizations. Our academic advisory team reviews content and verifies accuracy throughout the year for the most current information. Partnerships do not influence rankings or editorial decisions.
- Analyzed over 2,000 national, accredited, and nonprofit colleges and universities
- 800+ rankings pages are reviewed and updated yearly
- Content is informed by reputable sources, surveys, and interviews with academic advisors and other experts
- Over 100 data points are reviewed for accuracy and quality throughout the year, including sources
How we rank schools
Our list features the best MBA in Marketing degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:
Academic Quality:
- Admission rate versus enrollment rate
- Retention rate of students who return after year one
- Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
- Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions
Graduation Rate
- Overall graduation rate
- Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
- Student-to-faculty ratio
Cost and ROI
- In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
- Required credits to graduate
- Earning potential after graduation
- Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options
Student Resources
- Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
- On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries
Read more about our ranking methodology.
The Top 50 MBA in Marketing Degree Programs
intelligent score 99.77
Award
Rankings
#1 MBA Guide
#2 Best Value Schools
#2 USNews
School Information
Indiana, PA
Graduation Rate: 58%
Admission Rate: 93%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania is one of the most well-respected names in higher education, and they have many great MBA in marketing programs. The first choice is the aptly-named Marketing Management Major, which serves as the more "traditional" marketing MBA choice. This program focuses on helping you understand different market forces and factors along with how to analyze and overcome the competition. The second choice is the Marketing and Operations degree which is Wharton's only joint major. As the name implies, this degree is about combining marketing proficiency with expertise in fields like product development, supply chain management, brand management, and more.
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
57
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,532
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
215-898-8243
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
57
intelligent score 98.55
Award
Rankings
#1 USNews
#2 MBA Guide
#11 Best Value Schools
School Information
Evanston, IL
Graduation Rate: 95%
Admission Rate: 7%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
If you're looking for one of the best places to pursue an MBA in marketing, look no further than Northwestern University. First, you get plenty of MBA options here, including a traditional two-year option as well as a one-year accelerated option. There are also options to earn MBAs that integrate engineering, design, and technology elements, as well as an opportunity to get your MBA and JD law degree at the same time. Second, an MBA degree at Northwestern helps to prepare you for success in the real world because you will eventually be able to connect to a network of over 60,000 satisfied alumni who can help you leverage your newfound marketing expertise.
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
45
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$2,496
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
847-491-3300
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
45
intelligent score 97.85
Award
Rankings
#6 MBA Guide
#8 Best Value Schools
#8 USNews
School Information
Durham, NC
Graduation Rate: 96%
Admission Rate: 6%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Duke has some of the best graduate programs in the world, especially for those interested in an MBA in marketing. At this school, you can pursue a concentration in marketing as part of your MBA at no additional charge for students enrolled in the Daytime program. Those enrolled in the Global Executive and Weekend Executive MBA programs must pay a small extra fee. The versatility of these programs is convenient because it allows you to pursue the degree you need on your own schedule. And by combining marketing expertise with courses focusing on topics like executive education, you can become the well-rounded marketing guru the 21st century really needs.
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
65-79
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,153
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
919-681-3257
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
65-79
intelligent score 97.69
Award
Rankings
#4 MBA Guide
#4
#14 Best Value Schools
School Information
Los Angeles, CA
Graduation Rate: 68%
Admission Rate: 91%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
56
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,638
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
919-660-7705
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
56
intelligent score 97.61
Award
Rankings
#5 MBA Guide
#5
#24 Best Value Schools
School Information
Madison, WI
Graduation Rate: 88%
Admission Rate: 60%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
48-54
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $562
Out-of-State: $1,055
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
608-262-2433
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
48-54
intelligent score 97.57
Award
Rankings
#8 MBA Guide
#17 Best Value Schools
School Information
Pittsburgh, PA
Graduation Rate: 83%
Admission Rate: 14%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
At Carnegie Mellon University, the Tepper School of Business is proud to offer a robust MBA marketing concentration to interested students. This program is 21st-century focused, basing different instructional techniques on elements like statistical models, machine learning, data mining, and more. Education in these areas develops you into a more skilled marketer, and you can position yourself as someone well-versed in the technological requirements of modern marketing. Coursework also focuses on important topics like marketing via social media, market entry planning, and product management. Ultimately, this curriculum provides the best of both worlds by helping you master classical marketing techniques alongside cutting-edge technological tools.
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
45
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$841
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
412-268-2000
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
45
intelligent score 96.94
Award
Rankings
#9 MBA Guide
School Information
Washington, DC
Graduation Rate: 95%
Admission Rate: 12%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
54
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,196
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
202-687-0100
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
54
intelligent score 96.5
Award
Rankings
#10 MBA Guide
#22 Best Value Schools
School Information
Gainesville, FL
Graduation Rate: 88%
Admission Rate: 30%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
32-48
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,270
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
352-392-7992
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
32-48
intelligent score 96.46
Award
Rankings
#11 MBA Guide
School Information
Philadelphia, PA
Graduation Rate: 73%
Admission Rate: 72%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
48
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $654
Out-of-State: $1,154
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
215-204-7000
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
48
intelligent score 96.07
Award
Rankings
#8
#12 MBA Guide
#23 Best Value Schools
School Information
Charlottesville, VA
Graduation Rate: 94%
Admission Rate: 23%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
35-60
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$2,427
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
434-924-3900
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
35-60
intelligent score 93.61
Award
Rankings
School Information
Berkeley, CA
Graduation Rate: 94%
Admission Rate: 14%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
42
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $1,662
Out-of-State: $1,953
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
510-642-1405
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
42
intelligent score 92.07
Award
Rankings
School Information
Columbia, SC
Graduation Rate: 75%
Admission Rate: 62%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
41
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $625
Out-of-State: $720
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
803-777-0169
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
41
intelligent score 90.23
Award
Rankings
School Information
Atlanta, GA
Graduation Rate: 92%
Admission Rate: 13%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
54
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$2,809
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
404-727-6270
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
54
intelligent score 88.46
Award
Rankings
School Information
San Francisco, CA
Graduation Rate: 77%
Admission Rate: 71%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
48-52
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,700
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
415-422-2221
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
48-52
intelligent score 88.09
Award
Rankings
School Information
Austin, TX
Graduation Rate: 82%
Admission Rate: 29%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $876
Out-of-State: $922
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
415-422-6771
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 87.8
Award
Rankings
School Information
Bloomington, IN
Graduation Rate: 79%
Admission Rate: 85%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $878
Out-of-State: $1,654
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
812-855-8006
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33
intelligent score 87.51
Award
Rankings
School Information
Winona, MN
Graduation Rate: 67%
Admission Rate: 84%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Small
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
64
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $682
Out-of-State: $873
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
612-625-5555
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
64
intelligent score 86.56
Award
Rankings
School Information
Philadelphia, PA
Graduation Rate: 68%
Admission Rate: 77%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
49
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,382
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
215-895-2000
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
49
intelligent score 86.22
Award
Rankings
School Information
Salt Lake City, UT
Graduation Rate: 70%
Admission Rate: 79%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
62
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,271
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
801-585-6291
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
62
intelligent score 83.65
Award
Rankings
School Information
Stillwater, OK
Graduation Rate: 64%
Admission Rate: 68%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33-36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $1,776
Out-of-State: $2,423
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected].
Phone:
405-744-9000
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
33-36
intelligent score 83.13
Award
Rankings
School Information
Orange, CA
Graduation Rate: 81%
Admission Rate: 60%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
50
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$2,750
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
714-997-6815
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
50
intelligent score 80.57
Award
Rankings
School Information
Houston, TX
Graduation Rate: 94%
Admission Rate: 9%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-60
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,150
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
713-348-4002
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-60
intelligent score 78.46
Award
Rankings
School Information
Malibu, CA
Graduation Rate: 84%
Admission Rate: 42%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
55
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$2,030
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
310-506-4858
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
55
intelligent score 78.39
Award
Rankings
School Information
Fort Worth, TX
Graduation Rate: 81%
Admission Rate: 54%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
42
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$2,145
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
817-257-7531
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
42
intelligent score 78.14
Award
Rankings
School Information
Villanova, PA
Graduation Rate: 88%
Admission Rate: 25%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
48
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,263
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
610-519-4500
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
48
intelligent score 78.08
Award
Rankings
School Information
Tallahassee, FL
Graduation Rate: 81%
Admission Rate: 37%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
39
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $479
Out-of-State: $1,110
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
850-644-3090
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
39
intelligent score 77.25
Award
Rankings
School Information
Boston, MA
Graduation Rate: 89%
Admission Rate: 18%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
55
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,755
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
817-437-7531
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
55
intelligent score 76.35
Award
Rankings
School Information
Waco, TX
Graduation Rate: 78%
Admission Rate: 57%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
48
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$2,285
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
254-710-3411
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
48
intelligent score 75.94
Award
Rankings
School Information
Iowa City, IA
Graduation Rate: 71%
Admission Rate: 86%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
48
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$750
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
319-335-0862
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
48
intelligent score 74.35
Award
Rankings
School Information
New York, NY
Graduation Rate: 93%
Admission Rate: 7%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$2,816
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
212-854-1100
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 74.25
Award
Rankings
School Information
Chicago, IL
Graduation Rate: 95%
Admission Rate: 6%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
45-48
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$2,448
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
773-702-7743
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
45-48
intelligent score 71.42
Award
Rankings
School Information
Milwaukee, WI
Graduation Rate: 83%
Admission Rate: 86%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
31-42
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,360
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
414-288-7145
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
31-42
intelligent score 70.97
Award
Rankings
School Information
Raleigh, NC
Graduation Rate: 80%
Admission Rate: 46%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
54
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $525
Out-of-State: $1,635
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
919-515-5584
Delivery Format
On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
54
intelligent score 70.33
Award
Rankings
School Information
New York, NY
Graduation Rate: 85%
Admission Rate: 13%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
48
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,744
accreditation
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
212-998-0100
Delivery Format
On-Campus, Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
48
Discover More Options
How to Choose an MBA in Marketing Program
Choose your area of study
While marketing is already a niche field, you can further tailor your education to your career goals by choosing an area of study, often called a specialization.
Options will vary depending on the institution, but popular specializations include digital marketing, for those interested in online advertising and social media campaigns; brand management, ideal for students wanting to build and maintain solid brand representation; and marketing analytics, suited for students with a knack for data analysis and insights.
Speaking with faculty advisors, attending informational sessions, and researching potential career paths can be helpful when you’re making this decision. It’s important to remember that your best fit will be the option that aligns with your interests and the market’s demand — ensuring both personal satisfaction and professional success.
Research schools and programs
Once you’ve decided on your specialization, you can begin researching schools and programs to help you meet your professional goals. Consider guiding your research with these questions:
- Does the program offer a specialization in my area of interest?
- What are the faculty’s credentials?
- How does the program integrate real-world marketing projects?
- What are the career outcomes for graduates?
- Is the program accredited?
You can find this information on program websites by attending open houses and speaking with admissions counselors. These resources offer comprehensive insights into the program’s offerings and overall quality, helping you make an educated decision.
Prepare for tests and applications
Now that you have a shortlist of MBA programs, preparation becomes critical for a successful application.
Start by enrolling in a test prep program for the GRE or GMAT, as a strong score can significantly bolster your application (it’s worth noting there are many online MBA programs that don’t require GMAT scores, though). Also, write a compelling personal statement highlighting your achievements, goals, and why you’re an excellent fit for the program.
Securing solid letters of recommendation from professionals or academics who can vouch for your capabilities and work ethic is essential. Lastly, make sure your academic transcripts and resume are updated and accurately reflect your qualifications and experiences.
Select your program
When acceptance letters arrive, you may have a big decision to make. Fortunately, you can simplify this decision by revisiting your initial research criteria – including specialization offerings, faculty expertise, and career services. Consider practical aspects, such as the total cost of attendance and available financial aid, scholarships, and assistantships. Reflecting on these factors will guide you toward the program that meets your educational needs and professional goals.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Financing your MBA without accruing significant debt may seem impossible, but it is more doable than you think.
Prioritize scholarships and grants first, as these don’t require repayment and are awarded based on merit or need. Assistantships can also be helpful for graduate students, as they often offer tuition waivers or stipends in exchange for research or teaching duties. Federal loans should be considered next to bridge financial gaps, offering lower interest rates and flexible repayment plans.
Don’t hesitate to ask your employer about tuition reimbursement programs; many organizations support employees pursuing further education, especially if the MBA aligns with the company’s goals.
What Can You Expect From an MBA in Marketing Program?
An MBA in marketing offers an all-encompassing curriculum designed to provide students with advanced skills in market research, branding, consumer behavior, sales, and digital marketing strategies. This specialized program delves into the intricacies of market analysis, strategic planning, and the latest marketing tools and technologies, preparing graduates for leadership roles in marketing, advertising, and product management.
Full-time students usually complete the program in two years, while part-time students take three to four years, depending on their schedules and course load.
Beyond marketing-specific courses, MBA students also engage in general business management studies — including finance, operations, and human resources, to develop a well-rounded understanding of how marketing fits within the broader business context. Additional requirements often include internships, capstone projects, and collaboration on real-world case studies, depending on the program.
Potential courses you’ll take in an MBA in marketing program
- Brand Management: In this course, students learn about the importance of branding, brand equity, and brand positioning in the marketplace. It covers strategies for building, managing, and sustaining a brand — including dealing with brand crises, rebranding, and measuring brand performance to ensure long-term brand success.
- Digital Marketing Strategies: Increasingly important in today’s digitally-dominant world, this course covers search engine optimization (SEO), pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, social media marketing, and email marketing. Students gain hands-on experience developing and implementing digital marketing campaigns, analyzing data to optimize strategies, and understanding the digital customer experience.
- Consumer Behavior: This course explores the psychological, social, and cultural factors influencing consumers’ decisions. Students learn about consumer decision-making processes, the role of perception in marketing, and strategies for influencing consumer behavior, providing a foundation for creating effective marketing campaigns.
- Marketing Analytics: In this course, students are introduced to analytical tools and techniques to gather and interpret data to make informed marketing decisions. They learn how to use data analytics for market segmentation, targeting, and positioning, as well as for measuring the effectiveness of marketing campaigns, providing them with the skills to drive data-driven marketing campaigns.
MBA in Marketing Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an MBA in marketing degree program?
To apply for an MBA in marketing, research programs to find those that best suit your career goals. Then, prepare your application, which typically includes the following:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Relevant work experience, two to five years is often preferable
- A personal statement outlining your professional aspirations and how the MBA will help you achieve them
- Letters of recommendation (many programs request two or three)
- GMAT or GRE scores
- Official academic transcripts
Given the competitive nature of admissions, it’s crucial to speak with an admissions counselor. They can provide valuable insights into the application process, specific program requirements, and tips to strengthen your application.
How much does an MBA in marketing degree cost?
The cost of these degrees can vary significantly by institution. The average graduate tuition for the 2020-2021 academic year was $19,749. However, you’ll want to prepare for additional costs beyond tuition — including books, supplies, accommodation, and living expenses. Depending on the school, library and activity fees may also be involved, which can add up over time.
Financial aid and scholarships are available at many institutions to help mitigate these costs. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a financial aid counselor at your school to discover your opportunities and how to apply.
How long does it take to earn an MBA in marketing degree?
Earning this degree typically takes two years for full-time students, while part-time students may take three to four years, depending on their course load.
Part-time enrollment allows students to balance their studies with a full-time job or family responsibilities, making it a preferred option for many. However, this flexibility extends the typical completion time, as students take fewer courses each semester.
The total number of required credits also influences the duration, with programs requiring more credits taking longer to complete.