2025 Best Online Digital Marketing Degrees
Online bachelor's in digital marketing degrees explore SEO, content marketing, social media strategy, and data analytics. Some programs we include are BBAs that emphasize digital advertising and market research, with practical experience gained through virtual internships and projects. Graduates of these online bachelor's programs are prepared for fast-paced careers, like marketing managers and SEO specialists.
Key Takeaways:
- Our most affordable digital marketing degrees have annual tuition below $20,000, with the lowest at $7,080.
- Digital marketing programs with top Salary Scores earn median salaries above $68,000.
- All of our highest-rated schools based on student reviews have recommendation rates of 74% or higher.
- Honorable Mention schools excel in various categories, with some featuring online enrollments exceeding 100,000 students.
Our methodology for choosing the best digital marketing online degrees recognizes that students have diverse priorities such as affordability, earnings potential, and alumni reviews. We also include our Honorable Mentions so you can choose the school that's best for your personal needs and goals.
Featured Popular Online Colleges
Southern New Hampshire University Online
- Online Enrollment: 135,584
Southern New Hampshire University's BS in Marketing with a Social Media Marketing concentration is an ACBSP-accredited program that explores marketing principles through a digital lens. Students pay $330 per credit and complete 40 courses over 8-week terms. The curriculum includes social media strategy, digital advertising, and preparation for HubSpot's Social Media Certification. With an estimated cost of $39,600 before credits, the program offers up to 90 transfer credits. Graduates can pursue careers as social media managers or strategists in a field expected to grow 6% by 2032, with a median salary of $156,580.
Purdue Global
- Online Enrollment: 33,392
Purdue Global offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Digital and Social Media Management. This program, fully online, enables you to complete your degree in as few as four years at a cost of $371 per credit, requiring a total of 180 quarter credits. The curriculum, which spans core, major, and elective courses, develops competencies in online marketing, social media strategy, and digital market analysis. Accredited by the ACBSP, this degree prepares you for a competitive market, projected to add 715,100 business jobs by 2031, enhancing your career prospects significantly.
Liberty University
- Online Enrollment: 35,243
Liberty University's BS in Business Administration: Digital Marketing & Advertising program offers a comprehensive 120-credit hour curriculum designed for flexibility with online, 8-week courses. You can transfer up to 75% of your credits and pay as low as $250 per credit hour with military discounts. The program focuses on key skills like site optimization, web analytics, and customer retention. It prepares you for roles such as digital marketing specialist or SEO strategist. Applications are open with a $50 fee, waived for qualifying military personnel.
Best by Salary Score
Schools below have high alumni salaries to highlight those offering the best financial returns. Salary Scores, calculated from College Scorecard data in the form of a letter grade, reflect early career earnings of graduates with federal aid. Our top schools with digital marketing degrees online have median earnings exceeding $68,000.
University of Arizona
Why We Like Them:
UA's online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration has graduates with median earnings of $70,338, placing it in the top 11% of institutions for this metric. Through a blend of core and major-specific courses, you'll develop critical thinking and data analysis skills essential for navigating global business trends. Key courses include Business Communications, Marketing, Project Management, and Human Resources Management, offering practical skills aligned with industry needs. We greatly appreciate that 97% of students recommend this school, reflecting its substantial impact on graduates' careers.
What Students Say:
"The University of Arizona is a great school that provides a good preparation both for employment and grad school. The department of Communication is especially excellent in research... I really recommend the department of Communication at the University of Arizona."
Anonymous (marketing master's), Graduated 2018
Arizona State University, Online
Why We Like Them:
ASU's online Bachelor of Science in Digital Audiences is included due to the median earnings of its graduates — $68,619, positioning it among the top 15% of comparable institutions nationwide. Additionally, ASU boasts a 90% recommendation rate and a significant online enrollment, with 50,637 students, which demonstrates the university's capability in delivering quality education at scale. The digital marketing degree includes 41 classes over 120 credit hours, with courses like Social Media Campaigns, Engagement and Research, and Digital Audience Growth, which culminates in a practical capstone project.
Best by Affordability
Our Best by Affordability list highlights online bachelor's programs in digital marketing with annual tuition rates under $23,000. Our OnlineU staff manually researches official school websites to ensure tuition rates are accurate and up-to-date.
Arkansas State University
Why We Like Them:
ASU's online Bachelor of Science in Digital Technology and Design has an economical tuition of $7,080, placing it in the top 3% for cost-efficiency among institutions. This affordability is complemented by a high percentage of students receiving financial aid — 100%. The digital innovation program equips you with up-to-date industry knowledge and digital tool proficiency. It blends design and technology, providing you with the skills to produce market-ready applications in areas like 3D design, multimedia, and interactive marketing. With a focus on real-world application, you'll graduate ready to lead in the digital design industry.
Avila University
Why We Like Them:
Avila's online Bachelor of Arts in Marketing has an exceptionally affordable tuition of $8,700, placing it in the top 12% for affordability. The program includes not only core marketing principles but also interdisciplinary coursework in accounting, economics, finance, and management, ensuring a well-rounded education. Courses like Digital Marketing Communication and Consumer Behavior are designed to equip you with the practical skills demanded by today’s marketing landscape. Financially, the tuition is a flat, pay-as-you-go rate for all U.S. residents.
What Students Say:
"Avila has a great faculty who works hard to teach students what they will need to be successful in their fields... Professors are always very happy to meet outside of office hours."
Erin Kincannon Emler, Graduated 2016
Southern New Hampshire University Online
Why We Like Them:
SNHU offers an online Bachelor of Science in Marketing - Digital Marketing for a tuition of $9,900. This digital marketing concentration equips you with the skills needed to excel in the fast-evolving digital landscape. You'll master mobile marketing, social media strategies, and data-driven campaign analysis to drive brand success. With industry-recognized certifications and real-world applications, this degree prepares you for high-demand roles in various sectors, including advertising, promotions, and marketing management.
What Students Say:
"I've attended traditional college settings in the past and found SNHU's online program to be excellent for someone with a busy life. The school is accredited and offers a highly flexible online format. The workload may be heavy, but my professors were helpful, and my advisor was very supportive."
Ashley, Graduated 2021
Liberty University
Why We Like Them:
Liberty earns its spot on our list due to its notably affordable tuition of $11,700 for the online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration - Digital Marketing & Advertising, placing it among the top 19% for affordability. Taught by experienced professionals, the curriculum includes vital courses such as Marketing Research and Customer Retention through Digital Marketing. Accredited by the SACSCOC, this degree assures high educational standards, preparing you to excel in digital marketing. The program’s emphasis on practical skills, such as SEO and digital marketing analytics, equips you with industry-relevant expertise.
What Students Say:
"Liberty prioritizes public service professionals, offering significant tuition discounts and comprehensive support for law enforcement and military students. The curriculum, embedded with Christian principles, coupled with professors' genuine investment, enhances learning."
Tammy Young, Graduated 2018
Regent University Online
Why We Like Them:
Regent's online Bachelor of Science in in Business - Marketing has an affordable tuition of $11,850. The program requires 120+ credit hours, with courses that include foundational marketing subjects like public relations, e-commerce, advertising and promotion, marketing research, social media marketing, and consumer behavior. Notably, the curriculum incorporates practical experience with entrepreneurially focused education and interaction with small business owners. Additionally, Regent's ACBSP accreditation ensures that the program meets high educational standards.
What Students Say:
"This is a great school! During my time here, the professors were very caring and made sure you received quality instruction... This is a Christian University grounded in the Word of God and committed to excellence."
N.D., Graduated 2020
South College
Why We Like Them:
South College offers an online Bachelor of Business Administration - Marketing with a tuition of $11,925, making it one of the most affordable programs available. The curriculum covers essential business functions including accounting, finance, business research, and management. South College's business programs are accredited by IACBE, ensuring that the program meets high academic standards. The inclusion of specialized coursework like corporate finance, global business, and human resource management equips you with a versatile skill set, preparing you to address real-world business challenges.
What Students Say:
"I have been in many different schools. Other schools have many extra curriculum just for the sake of money. This is the perfect scenario I have been searching for. I wish I could have found this sooner."
Than Sumlut, Graduated 2024
Mount Vernon Nazarene University
Why We Like Them:
MVNU's online Bachelor of Business Administration in Digital Marketing has a low-cost tuition rate of $11,940. Moreover, the university bolsters your financial feasibility with an impressive average financial aid package of $23,202. Notably, the program length is considerate of your time, with 26 months required for completion if you bring in 56 transferable credit hours. Coursework explores social media marketing, email marketing, SEO, SEM, and digital marketing analytics. The curriculum is designed to prepare you to implement and analyze digital marketing campaigns effectively.
What Students Say:
"This program has allowed me to get a more personal experience because of the small class size. I have been with the same people from the beginning of the program, and we have all grown tremendously!"
Brittany Carpenter, Graduated 2014
Campbellsville University
Why We Like Them:
Campbellsville's online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration - Marketing has a tuition of $12,720 making it one of the most cost-effective options. This program also stands out with eight different emphases including Marketing, Human Resource Management, and Cybersecurity. CU's BBA program requires 120 credit hours, which can be completed in approximately four years. Courses — such as Business Communication and Digital Marketing — are tailored to industry needs. Additionally, the program is IACBE accredited, ensuring adherence to high academic standards.
What Students Say:
"It is a great college and has a great student diversity... This is not a party school, so if you are looking for a school that you can also party at this is not it."
Keysha, Graduated 2017
University of West Alabama
Why We Like Them:
UWA's Bachelor of Business Administration - Marketing online is a fiscally prudent choice with a tuition of $13,325. Course offerings within this degree adhere to a focus on practical application, equipping you with the skills necessary to navigate modern marketing challenges. The BBA program includes courses that promote a thorough understanding of market research, digital strategies, and consumer behavior, ensuring you are well-prepared to excel in the digital marketing landscape. Additionally, the program offers flexible online learning options, whether you are studying full-time or at a part-time pace.
What Students Say:
"I liked the small class size... easy to communicate with with peers and faculty... My courses were challenging, and faculty were engaged... staff were professional, efficient, and caring."
Anonymous, Graduated 2013
University of Advancing Technology
Why We Like Them:
UAT's online Bachelor of Science in Digital Marketing boasts a competitive tuition of $13,900. This bachelor’s degree equips you to be a leader in the evolving digital landscape by blending technology skills with creative marketing strategies. This career-focused program covers essential areas like social media, SEO, content creation, and digital strategy, ensuring you master the tools needed to thrive in the industry. Graduates are prepared to enter roles in digital marketing, online advertising, and social media management, making them invaluable assets in any organization seeking to navigate the digital age.
Abraham Lincoln University
Why We Like Them:
ALU offers an online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a tuition fee of $14,940, placing it in a financially accessible range. This degree prepares you for dynamic roles in the digital business landscape and teaches you helpful skills in management, marketing, and finance, with a special emphasis on leveraging digital tools and strategies to enhance business performance. Graduates are trained to analyze market trends, create effective digital marketing campaigns, and make data-driven decisions, positioning themselves for success in the rapidly evolving field of digital marketing.
What Students Say:
"ALU offers numerous resources to ensure success. Taking advantage of these resources and a desire to succeed are crucial. I was able to excel at ALU due to this supportive environment."
Tri Song, Graduated 2024
Bay Path University
Why We Like Them:
Bay Path's online Bachelor of Science in Business - Marketing and Digital Strategies has an annual tuition of $16,400, this program offers a budget-friendly path to higher education. Plus, 97% receive financial aid who attend school here. You'll gain core business knowledge through 6-week sessions and earn industry certifications such as the Google Digital Marketing and E-commerce Professional Certificate and Meta Social Media Marketing Professional Certificate. We also appreciate Bay Path's 88% recommendation rate, showing that students and graduates from the school are willing to endorse it to others.
What Students Say:
"I truly believe that I found myself in college, during both undergrad and grad... If I would've gone to a different school, my experience wouldn't have been as amazing as it was."
Sammie, Graduated 2016
University of the Southwest
Why We Like Them:
USW's online Bachelor of Business Administration - E-Commerce has a tuition of $16,470. This is a substantial benefit. The program benefits from IACBE accreditation, ensuring that you receive a recognized and industry-standard education. USW provides a 100% online format for maximum flexibility, allowing you to balance your studies with other commitments. Students at USW are well-supported, with 100% receiving financial aid, highlighting the university's dedication to making education financially feasible. This combination of affordability, quality, and student support makes USW a solid choice.
What Students Say:
"I did a lot of research before choosing USW... They met all the requirements... The university staff was helpful and resolved the issue to my satisfaction... Great school so far!!!!!!"
JW, Graduated 2024
National University
Why We Like Them:
NU offers an accessible education with a tuition of $16,650 for its online Bachelor of Arts in Integrated Marketing Communications. This program equips you with skills in marketing, sales, advertising, and public relations, integrating traditional and Web 2.0 platforms for multi-platform communication strategies. Additionally, the program's curriculum includes courses in consumer behavior, brand management, and digital marketing, ensuring you are well-prepared for a variety of careers in marketing and related fields.
Maryville University
Why We Like Them:
Maryville has a tuition of $17,280 for its online Bachelor of Science in Marketing. This is further supported by a strong average financial aid package of $17,914, situating it in the top 23% for financial aid generosity among peer institutions, ensuring financial accessibility. Maryville’s online BS in Marketing is designed to adapt to the evolving digital landscape, preparing you with essential knowledge in search engine marketing, social media engagement, and data analytics. Furthermore, the program's curriculum includes a business core and offers internship opportunities, providing practical experience.
What Students Say:
"A great place to learn. Faculty members are focused on your continued success. Faculty is accessible during and after school hours for assistance. Educational offerings are generous and specific based on your career plans."
Tiandra Bland, Graduated 2018
North Park University - Chicago
Why We Like Them:
NPU offers a tuition of $18,300 for its online Bachelor of Arts in Digital Marketing. This cost-effective option is strengthened by the fact that 100% of students receive financial aid, with an average package of $22,545, placing the university in the top 17% nationally. The student-to-faculty ratio is low at 10:1, ensuring you receive personalized attention, as highlighted by its position in the top 17% for this metric. Alongside the practical benefits of financial support, you will experience the flexibility of online courses tailored to your schedule, delivered in accelerated seven-week formats, aiding in swift career progression.
What Students Say:
"North Park University was an incredible place to finish my undergraduate education... If you're looking for a university with a personal touch, NPU is the place for you. Diversity is very important to campus leaders."
Gracie Williams, Graduated 2016
Bryant & Stratton College Online
Why We Like Them:
Bryant & Stratton College Online's Bachelor of Business Administration in Digital Marketing online has tuition at $19,950. The program can be completed in under 32 months, offering you an accelerated pathway. Courses are in SEO, social media marketing, and web data analysis, alongside traditional business management classes, ensuring you gain practical and comprehensive knowledge. Moreover, the program emphasizes career readiness by integrating advanced digital marketing techniques and traditional business principles, preparing you for leadership roles in marketing.
What Students Say:
"When I was researching colleges I saw Bryant & Stratton and it just clicked. I was able to get my degree completely online while working. The teachers were incredible to work with. They were all very supportive. I absolutely recommend going here..."
Melini Dunican, Graduated 2024
Brenau University
Why We Like Them:
Brenau's online Bachelor of Business Administration - Marketing costs an annual rate of $22,620. Additionally, the average financial aid package at Brenau is $22,146, situating the school in the top 18% for financial support, underscoring its commitment to making education accessible. With a recommendation rate of 89%, a significant majority of graduates endorse their experience here positively. The business program in marketing doesn't just focus on theoretical knowledge; it also provides practical skills necessary for the modern business environment, making it a compelling choice for prospective students.
What Students Say:
"The campus is gorgeous and the supportive faculty and staff enhances your learning environment. Everyone in the program wants you to succeed in every aspect of your life!"
Megan Heller, Graduated 2019
Highest Rated by Students
Alumni reviews can be a great way to measure overall student satisfaction. Schools on this list must have a minimum of 20 student reviews posted on OnlineU or GradReports, our companion site. Schools with the best student reviews all score 3.5 and above, with recommendation rates as high as 96%.
California Coast University
Key Metrics:
- Overall Rating: 4.42/5
- Number of Reviews: 75
- Recommend Rate: 92%
Why We Like Them:
CCU has an exceptional overall review rating of 4.42 out of 5. Coupled with a recommendation rate of 92%, it's clear that graduates find immense value in their education and are willing to endorse it to others. The online Bachelor of Science in Business Marketing is designed for you to complete courses at your own pace, 100% online. Plus, you can start anytime, and there are no set meeting times or exam dates, adding unparalleled convenience. Additionally, the program requires 42 courses, covering a diverse array of core, general education, and elective subjects, which cumulatively amount to 126 semester units.
What Students Say:
"Communication, infrastructure and administration are efficient and the staff are approachable. I usually get email responses immediately. Essay feedback has so far been quite thorough. If you are looking for a program that is business-like and straightforward, this has to be the most affordable, accessible, accredited professional doctorate out there. California Coast University is a good school."
L.D., Graduated 2023
Wilmington University
Why We Like Them:
WilmU's high overall review rating of 4.18 is a testament to the student satisfaction and quality of education you can expect. You can earn a Digital Marketing Certificate or a Nonprofit Management Certificate while completing your online Bachelor of Science in Marketing and also qualify for Google Analytics certifications. Additionally, optional internships and cooperative education experiences provide hands-on work experience, which is highly valued by employers. With courses starting every 8 weeks and dual-credit options that let you incorporate master's-level coursework at no additional cost, WilmU is designed to be accommodating.
What Students Say:
"Some of the online classes are better than others because some of the professors have surpassed others by using video lectures, Zoom meetings... I am completely satisfied with the education I have received at WilmU and equally as important, the cost was affordable enough where I could pay cash."
Jackie E., Graduated 2022
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Why We Like Them:
UAB holds an overall review rating of 4.04 out of 5, ranking it among the top student-rated programs. The online Bachelor of Science in Marketing- Digital Marketing offers unique concentrations such as Digital Marketing, Marketing Analytics, and Retail Marketing Management, ensuring you gain specialized skills. The program includes coursework in subjects like Market Research and Integrated Marketing Communication, equipping you with both creative and analytical skills. If you opt for the online format, the program is designed to be self-paced or enhanced for structured learning with premium options.
What Students Say:
"UAB is an excellent place for undergraduate education. Students share a strong sense of community and devotion to studies. Campus is lively and bustling. Group projects in many classes develop teamwork and professionalism."
Michelle LeBlanc, Graduated 2015
Columbia Southern University
Key Metrics:
- Overall Rating: 3.98/5
- Number of Reviews: 194
- Recommend Rate: 78%
Why We Like Them:
Columbia Southern has a student review rating of 3.98 out of 5, indicating substantial student satisfaction. This makes it a good choice for your online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration - Marketing. This program stands out for its robust focus on marketing fundamentals and strategic marketing, which prepares you to excel in understanding consumer behavior, marketing research, advertising, and strategic planning. Furthermore, the program's curriculum requires 120 credits, with the flexibility of transferring up to 90 credits, making it an attractive option if you have previous academic experience.
What Students Say:
"Columbia Southern University is a wonderful online college. They make learning online as simple as possible. The teachers are very willing to help students who need extra help via email or phone. The easy enrollment option makes registering for classes easy. Columbia Southern University exceeded my expectations."
Felicia, Graduated 2024
Purdue Global
Key Metrics:
- Overall Rating: 3.73/5
- Number of Reviews: 626
- Recommend Rate: 75%
Why We Like Them:
Purdue Global ranks highly due to its strong overall review rating of 3.72 out of 5. As part of the online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration - Digital and Social Media Management, students can benefit from a focus on successful online marketing strategies, gaining valuable skills in social media and market analysis. Accredited by the ACBSP, the program ensures a curriculum that meets high standards relevant to today’s business environment. Furthermore, the ExcelTrack® personalized learning platform offers a faster and more cost-effective solution to earning your degree.
What Students Say:
"This is an excellent school and has great programs that I would recommend to any pursuing higher education."
Scott L. Myers, Graduating 2025
Honorable Mention
The Honorable Mention category acknowledges schools with unique offerings that don't fit neatly into our other categories but are still worthy of consideration. We highlight specific strengths and characteristics to help you make an informed decision. Colleges listed in our Honorable Mention category showcase diverse strengths, such as exceptionally high online enrollments, with top institutions enrolling up to 112,807 online students.
Western Governors University
Why We Like Them:
WGU is a popular online school, with one of the largest populations of online students at 112,807. This indicates WGU's capability to effectively deliver quality education on such a large scale. Additionally, WGU hosts an online Bachelor of Science in Data Management and Analytics, which is specifically designed to equip you with skills in data management, data wrangling, statistical analysis, and visualization. What sets this program apart is its inclusion of industry-recognized certifications from organizations like CompTIA, Udacity, and AWS, integrated into the degree at no additional cost.
What Students Say:
"Western Governors University was probably the best decision I have ever made. The flexibility and affordability of this school allowed me to finish my bachelor’s in two years while working full time. I graduated with loans that amounted to the cost of many B&M colleges for one singular term."
Arlina, Graduated 2018
Arizona State University, Online
Why We Like Them:
ASU, which has a 90% recommendation rate, hosts 50,637 online students, situating it in the top 1% nationwide for this metric. Complementing this is the impressive median earnings among graduates of its online Bachelor of Science in Digital Audiences, which is $68,619, placing ASU in the top 15% nationally. This suggests you have a strong earning potential post-graduation. Also, we appreciate how each class spans 7.5 weeks, allowing for an accelerated learning pace. Key courses include Fundamentals of Coding and Digital Audience Analysis, ensuring you develop actionable insights crucial to digital marketing.
Columbia Southern University
Why We Like Them:
CSU has a whopping 11,330 distance learners enrolled. This showcases CSU's capacity to deliver quality online education, placing it in the top 2% of institutions nationwide. Moreover, the university is highly welcoming to military students, with 3,717 military enrollments. The online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration - Marketing encompasses key areas like consumer behavior, marketing research, strategic marketing, and advertising, providing a strong foundation for future marketers.
What Students Say:
"I truly enjoyed my time at CSU. The school's online format worked well for me, allowing flexibility while juggling a full-time job and family responsibilities. Professors were knowledgeable, and the curriculum was well-organized. I highly recommend CSU for anyone looking for a good online education experience."
Mackenzie Fitzpatrick, Graduated 2021
Featured Popular Online Colleges
Southern New Hampshire University Online
- Online Enrollment: 135,584
Southern New Hampshire University's BS in Marketing with a Social Media Marketing concentration is an ACBSP-accredited program that explores marketing principles through a digital lens. Students pay $330 per credit and complete 40 courses over 8-week terms. The curriculum includes social media strategy, digital advertising, and preparation for HubSpot's Social Media Certification. With an estimated cost of $39,600 before credits, the program offers up to 90 transfer credits. Graduates can pursue careers as social media managers or strategists in a field expected to grow 6% by 2032, with a median salary of $156,580.
Purdue Global
- Online Enrollment: 33,392
Purdue Global offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Digital and Social Media Management. This program, fully online, enables you to complete your degree in as few as four years at a cost of $371 per credit, requiring a total of 180 quarter credits. The curriculum, which spans core, major, and elective courses, develops competencies in online marketing, social media strategy, and digital market analysis. Accredited by the ACBSP, this degree prepares you for a competitive market, projected to add 715,100 business jobs by 2031, enhancing your career prospects significantly.
Liberty University
- Online Enrollment: 35,243
Liberty University's BS in Business Administration: Digital Marketing & Advertising program offers a comprehensive 120-credit hour curriculum designed for flexibility with online, 8-week courses. You can transfer up to 75% of your credits and pay as low as $250 per credit hour with military discounts. The program focuses on key skills like site optimization, web analytics, and customer retention. It prepares you for roles such as digital marketing specialist or SEO strategist. Applications are open with a $50 fee, waived for qualifying military personnel.
Student Reviews of Online Digital Marketing Programs
I like the flexibility of the program and the fact that I get a US degree which does not mention it is online is really good. Credit transfer option is also available so that is an added advantage - if I wish to go to the US for further studies I have that option. The curriculum is up to date, which is especially important considering I am pursuing Digital Marketing. The best part is, I have already been employed in an agency as a digital marketing executive and I can implement everything I learn... Read More
Review Date: 3/7/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Fantastic experience. This school is underrated and has received a bad rap due to the law suit against it for misrepresentation of employment potential (which for me is silly). I have been studying online and through the mail for over a decade at three separate institutions. CTU is far and above my best experience. The faculty is highly professional and extremely helpful. Whenever I had an issue, they were always there for me. Indeed, without their support, I would not have finished my degree. As... Read More
Review Date: 3/6/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Overview of Bachelor's in Digital Marketing Degrees
Digital marketing — an occupation that's expanding at a rapid pace — offers a wealth of job opportunities for prospective college students. E-marketing experts say that worldwide digital advertising spending reached $567 billion in 2022 and will soon top $1 trillion. This growing market highlights the importance of digital marketing and the need for qualified professionals in the field. An online bachelor’s program in digital marketing can be a great first step toward joining this bustling industry.
While many colleges offer general marketing degrees, some are now offering targeted bachelor's programs in digital marketing. Broad-based programs will include topics like brand management and market research techniques, but digital marketing programs take a deep dive into digital media, search engine optimization (SEO), and social media.
If digital media is your passion and you're thinking about preparing for a career in digital marketing, you can choose between earning a digital marketing degree online or in person. Online degrees are now just as respected as traditional degrees, and the flexibility of attending school on your own schedule may be a better fit for your needs.
Looking for ways to save money on a marketing degree? Check out our list of the most affordable bachelor's degrees and most affordable master's degrees in marketing.
Degree Requirements
Admission requirements for a digital marketing program vary by school, but you may need to complete the following steps:
- Show a minimum GPA of 2.5 or 3.0 on a high school transcript
- Provide one or more letters of recommendation from a teacher, coach, or supervisor
- Write an essay or personal statement on your education and career goals
- Submit official ACT or SAT scores, with minimums that vary by school
Once you begin your program, online digital marketing degrees at the bachelor's level typically require students to complete 120-126 credit hours. Graduation requirements typically include a mix of general education, core marketing courses, and electives.
Common Courses
In addition to major-specific courses, many programs in digital marketing require you to complete internships and capstone projects. These learning experiences help you gain practical experience while allowing you to demonstrate your understanding of digital and traditional marketing principles. Your capstone project also makes a great addition to your portfolio of professional work.
Bachelor's programs often include the following common courses:
Principles of Marketing
Whether they're specializing in digital marketing or not, all marketing students need a comprehensive overview of the foundational concepts in marketing, including product development, pricing strategies, promotion, and distribution. This course explores how to identify target markets, understand consumer behavior, and develop effective marketing plans.
Social Media Marketing
Social media platforms have become powerful marketing tools, so this course features hands-on assignments that teach students how to craft compelling content, build online communities, and measure the impact of social media campaigns. Coursework covers strategies for various platforms and discusses how to effectively engage with audiences and manage a brand's online presence.
Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
This course focuses on the strategies used to improve website visibility and ranking on search engines, covering topics such as keyword research, on-page and off-page optimization, and link building. It also teaches students about SEO-friendly web design and how to analyze website performance using SEO tools and metrics.
Digital Advertising
Probably one of the later classes in a digital marketing bachelor's program, this course explores the principles and strategies of advertising in the digital world. Coursework should cover advanced topics such as pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, display ads, and mobile advertising. It provides students with an understanding of how to develop and execute effective digital advertising campaigns, as well as how to measure and analyze their impact.
Content Marketing
This course examines the process of creating and distributing valuable, relevant, and consistent content to attract and engage a clearly defined audience. It covers content strategy, creation, distribution, and measurement. Learners practice developing various forms of content, including blogs, videos, and infographics, to achieve marketing and business goals.
Digital Data Analytics
Digital marketing efforts need to be closely measured and monitored to ensure they're achieving the desired results. This course introduces students to the techniques and tools used to collect and interpret data in order to make informed marketing decisions. It covers topics such as customer segmentation, competitive analysis, and the use of statistical software, such as Google Analytics.
Accreditation
Institutional accreditation is essential when selecting an online digital marketing program. Accreditation ensures that the college or university meets specific quality standards, and it can impact financial aid eligibility, credit transfers, and job prospects after graduation.
All of the schools on our list of the best online digital marketing degrees are accredited. However, you can find out if the school you're considering attending has earned institutional accreditation by searching the US Department of Education or Council for Higher Education Accreditation directories.
Individual programs can also earn programmatic accreditation, which means that they have been designed to give you industry-standard skills and knowledge. Undergraduate programs in business, which include marketing programs, may be accredited by either the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) or the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
What Can You Do With a Bachelor's Degree in Digital Marketing?
A bachelor's degree in digital marketing equips graduates with the technical skills necessary to succeed in various marketing roles. Graduates often pursue careers in social media marketing, SEO, digital advertising, content marketing, and more. The degree also provides a springboard to further education.
Further Education
While a bachelor's degree in digital marketing provides a solid foundation for a career in the field, you may decide to further your education with a master's or doctoral degree. Graduate programs, such as a master's degree in marketing, a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in marketing, or a Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) with a marketing specialization can provide advanced marketing skills and leadership training. These degrees can open doors to high-level roles in marketing management, consulting, or academia.
Digital Marketing Careers
Once you've earned your online digital marketing degree, you'll be prepared to start building your marketing career by taking on one of several roles within the field. For example, you could become an SEO specialist who optimizes website content for search engines to improve ranking and visibility. You could also become a social media manager who develops and implements marketing strategies on social media platforms.
As you gain experience, you may be able to advance to higher-level management positions. Digital marketing managers, for instance, oversee the planning, development, and execution of marketing campaigns across various digital channels. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for all advertising, promotions, and marketing managers is $133,380. This occupation is projected to grow by 10% through 2031.
Financing Your Digital Marketing Degree
As long as you're enrolled in an accredited online degree program, you may qualify for financial aid from several sources. These include the federal and state governments and the school you plan to attend. To determine how much funding you could receive, you'll need to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Scholarships and grants from the government and private organizations, businesses, and schools are also available. They are typically awarded based on merit, need, or specific criteria such as your field of study or personal background. These types of funding are preferred because they generally don't have to be repaid.
If you don't qualify for enough grant or scholarship money, you might need to finance your education with a student loan. The interest on a federal or private student loan, however, can add a substantial amount to the total cost of earning a degree. Before you accept a student loan, you can use our student loan repayment calculator to determine the full loan amount.
FAQs About Online Digital Marketing Degrees
Is a Digital Marketing Degree Worth It?
Yes, a digital marketing degree is worth it for many students. The BLS predicts strong job growth specifically in digital marketing-related occupations. By earning a degree in the field, you can develop your expertise in the tools and techniques used in these roles.
Is a Digital Marketing Degree Hard?
The difficulty of earning a digital marketing degree online depends on your background and interest in the field. The students who may be most successful in a digital marketing program will possess a mix of creativity, analytical skills, and a grasp of technology.
What Are the Qualifications for Becoming a Digital Marketer?
The qualifications for becoming a digital marketer typically include a bachelor's degree in digital marketing or a related field, practical experience often gained through internships or entry-level positions, and a strong understanding of digital platforms and marketing strategies.
Some of the required technical marketing skills include the ability to use different types of software, such as data analytics, photo imaging, and customer relationship management (CRM) software. Useful soft skills include collaboration, active listening, writing, and problem-solving.
Does Digital Marketing Pay Well?
Bottom Line
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the demand for professionals with a solid understanding of digital marketing strategies will continue to grow. Colleges with digital marketing degrees can help you prepare for an interesting and rewarding career in this rapidly expanding field.