What You Should Know About This Degree
If you want to advance your career with a graduate degree in marketing, an MBA isn’t your only option. Many schools also offer Master of Science (MS) or Master of Arts (MA) degrees in marketing, which may take more research or theoretical approaches in their instruction. At the exploratory stage, research other types of programs to determine which one will best suit your interests and career goals.
Like many industries, marketing has been disrupted by the digital revolution. Traditional advertising sales jobs are declining, and many of these job losses are offset by the rise in digital and social media marketing. Learning these skills and understanding the nuances of digital marketing is crucial for anyone looking to enter or advance in marketing. Review the curricula for programs to ensure that they cover these vital skills.
Marketing requires a diverse skill-set. In order to be successful in this field, you must possess strong written and verbal communication skills, the ability to problem solve and think critically, an aptitude for quantitative research and analysis, and a passion for teamwork and collaboration.
What’s Next?
Here are some questions to ask when researching MBA in Marketing programs:
- Does this program have the specialization that I want? Within marketing there are various areas of specialization, including analytics, public relations, and social media. If you are considering a concentration in one of these areas, be sure to select a program that offers this type of focus.
- Am I eligible for this program? MBA programs are typically designed for individuals who already have undergraduate coursework and/or professional experience in business. As you research programs, look at their qualification requirements to make sure you have the desired background for admission.
Researching the application procedures and deadlines for programs is another important part of the college search process. This will help you keep track of what materials you need to submit and what standardized tests, if any, you will need to complete. You can find this information on the school’s website or by contacting the admissions office.
Now is also a good time to think about financing your MBA. Talk to financial aid counselors about scholarships, loans, and assistantships. You can also check with your employer to find out if they offer any kind of tuition assistance benefits.