For creative individuals with a knack for storytelling, pursuing an online associate in marketing degree offers an accessible and affordable pathway into a rewarding career. These programs prepare students for various roles, including the potential to become sales managers, who earn a median salary of $130,600. With further education, advanced positions like marketing manager become available, with a median salary of $140,040.
Often completed in just two years, these online associate degrees combine flexibility with comprehensive learning at an average cost of $11,976. This investment in your education is the first step towards a rewarding career that values creativity, strategic thinking, and the power of effective communication.
How to Choose an Online Associate in Marketing Program
Choose your area of study
Choosing your study area within your associate in marketing degree is essential for aligning your education with your career goals. It narrows the focus, helping to clarify what you seek from your educational experience.
Popular specializations include digital marketing for those interested in online campaigns and social media; market research, suited for analytical thinkers keen on data interpretation; and brand management, ideal for creative individuals passionate about shaping and maintaining brand images. Selecting a specialization ensures the program offers a clear path toward achieving your professional goals and making your education as relevant and rewarding as possible.
Research schools and programs
Once you’ve identified your study area, you can thoroughly research schools and programs to suit your career goals. Consider using the following questions to guide your research:
- How flexible is the program in terms of scheduling and pacing?
- What are the qualifications of the faculty in my area of interest?
- Does a reputable accrediting body accredit the program?
- How does the program integrate real-world marketing projects into the curriculum?
- What are the graduation rates and job placement statistics for the program?
You can find this information on the institution’s official websites, attending a virtual open house, or speaking with an admissions counselor.
Prepare for tests and applications
With a shortlist of schools for your associate in marketing, begin preparing for tests and applications by understanding standard admission requirements: a high school diploma or GED, transcripts, and often a personal statement. Dedicating significant effort to your personal statement is essential, as it’s your chance to stand out and show why you’re an excellent fit for the program.
While standardized tests are less frequently required for associate degree programs, if any of your choices require them, consider enrolling in a test prep program to boost your scores.
Select your program
When acceptance letters arrive, you may have a big decision to make. This is an excellent time to revisit your initial research criteria. Pay special attention to the factors that matter most to you, such as curriculum relevance, faculty you’re excited to learn from, and the availability of support services for online students. Then, assess the total cost of attendance alongside any financial aid opportunities to determine which program is the most financially feasible. A balanced approach like this will guide you to the program that best suits your academic needs and professional goals.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Paying for your degree can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Taking a strategic approach to financial aid allows you to manage educational costs without a significant debt burden.
Begin with scholarships and grants, awarded based on merit or need, and don’t have to be paid back. Next, consider federal loans offering lower interest rates and flexible repayment terms to bridge any financial gaps. Work-study programs provide part-time employment opportunities that help cover education costs, while employer tuition reimbursement programs can be helpful for those currently employed.
Best 50 Accredited Online Associate in Marketing Degree Programs
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How We Rank Schools
This list focuses on online and hybrid associate degree programs available in the United States. While the majority of programs offer an associate of science or associate of applied science in marketing, some provide an associate of arts.
Several of the programs on our list are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), a peer-reviewed, self-regulated organization that evaluates institutions in southern states. It measures education quality by observing integrity, effectiveness, and academic performance. Credits and degrees from regionally accredited schools are more valuable than those from non-accredited schools because they are easily transferable and often required for professional credentials.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100. Read more about our ranking methodology.
Next, we compared this comprehensive list of online associate in accounting degree programs to a list of aggregated college rankings from reputable publications like the U.S. News & World Report, among others, to simplify a student’s college search. We pored through these rankings so students don’t have to.
What Can You Expect From an Online Associate in Marketing Program
You can expect to gain a foundational education in marketing principles, strategies, and practices while enrolled in an online associate in marketing program. Designed to be completed within two years, these programs equip learners with a broad understanding of consumer behavior, market research, digital marketing, and advertising techniques. Students gain the skills necessary to create compelling marketing campaigns and analyze market trends through a curriculum that combines theory with practical applications.
While most coursework can be completed online, some programs might include in-person residencies. These residencies offer valuable hands-on experience and networking opportunities, improving the learning experience.
Potential courses you’ll take in an online associate in marketing program
- Principles of Marketing: This foundational course introduces students to the basic concepts and practices within the marketing industry. Learners will explore market segmentation, targeting, positioning, and the marketing mix (product, price, place, promotion), gaining insights into how companies understand their customers and create value.
- Digital Marketing: This course covers the strategies and tools used in digital environments, including social media, email marketing, search engine optimization (SEO), and online advertising. Students will discover how to create engaging content, use data analytics to measure campaign success, and adapt to the rapidly changing digital world.
- Marketing Research: Offering a significant examination of the methodologies and tools used to gather and analyze market data, this course teaches students how to conduct surveys and focus groups and use various quantitative and qualitative research techniques. Insights gained can then be used to inform marketing strategies and business decisions.
- Brand Management: Students learn the importance of building and managing strong brands. The course covers brand equity, positioning, and management strategies. Through case studies and projects, learners understand how to create a consistent brand image and how branding influences customer loyalty and perception.
Online Associate in Marketing Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an online associate in marketing degree program?
To apply to an online associate in marketing degree program, start by visiting the program’s website, where the application process is clearly outlined. A high school diploma or GED is a standard requirement, and some programs may specify a minimum GPA. It’s essential to gather your transcripts, personal statement, and any other required documents ahead of time so you’re prepared to submit your application before the deadline.
Although the application can usually be completed online, some programs might request additional materials or steps. Speaking with an admissions counselor before applying is crucial, as they can provide more guidance, clarify program expectations, and help ensure you meet all requirements.
How much does an online associate in marketing degree cost?
The average tuition for an online associate degree was $11,976 for the 2021-2022 academic year. Additional costs online learners may encounter include:
- Distance learning fees
- Textbooks and course materials
- Technology upgrades, such as software or hardware improvements
Online students often save money by eliminating commuting and housing expenses. Additionally, the flexibility of online learning allows many to maintain employment while studying, further offsetting educational costs.
How long does it take to earn an online associate in marketing degree?
On average, earning an online associate in marketing degree takes two years with full-time study. However, online learning provides flexibility with options for accelerated or part-time schedules, allowing students to complete their degrees faster or extend their studies as needed. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for working professionals and students with other commitments, enabling them to effectively balance their education with ongoing responsibilities.
The number of required credits can also influence the duration of the program. Programs requiring more credits often take longer to complete.