Online MBA Programs in Digital Marketing

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Updated December 19, 2023 · 5 Min Read

Digital marketing programs can lead to in-demand careers in marketing analysis, social media management, and digital marketing. Find out whether an digital marketing degree is right for you.

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An online MBA in digital marketing covers digital tools and strategies to promote a company's products or services to internet users. Internet or digital marketing may include social media, content, email, and affiliate marketing.

Internet marketers cater digital campaigns to fit user needs. Graduates can also pursue careers as social media specialists and digital marketing managers.

Explore digital marketing MBA courses, graduates' salary and career outcomes, and how to find the best program for you.

What Is an MBA in Digital Marketing?

With an MBA in digital marketing, students can prepare for managerial roles in digital marketing, social media, mobile marketing, ecommerce, analytics, and digital strategy.

As digital marketing grows, employers increasingly seek applicants with internet marketing skills. Online digital marketing MBAs focus on digital marketing terminology and strategies. Coursework covers social media analysis and engagement, mobile marketing, and general business basics such as accounting and finance.

Why Should You Get an Online MBA in Digital Marketing?

Online MBAs in digital marketing offer flexibility and convenience. Students working full time can keep earning a salary while studying and potentially gain important experience in the field. Online learning also allows students to balance personal obligations with their educational goals.

With an MBA in digital marketing, students learn business administration basics and gain in-depth marketing expertise that can boost their resumes. A strong understanding of digital marketing can help graduates qualify for various in-demand positions across industries.

Online shopping is more popular than ever with no signs of slowing down. According to NPR, 69% of Americans have bought something over the internet and 25% use the internet monthly for shopping.

According to Payscale, graduates with an MBA in digital marketing earn an average annual salary of $85,000 as of October 2022. The BLS reports that the top-paying industries for marketing managers include scientific research and development services, cable and other subscription programming, and motion picture and video industries.

What Can You Do With an MBA in Digital Marketing?

Digital Marketing Manager

Digital marketing managers oversee their organization's online branding by creating campaigns that drive interest, boost sales, and raise consumer loyalty.

They also oversee and implement online-based advertising strategies. Necessary skills include search engine optimization (SEO), strategic marketing, strong communication, and technical know-how.

Payscale reports that digital marketing managers earn an average annual salary of $69,940 as of October 2022. Some popular employers include Amazon.com, Accenture, and IBM.

Social Media Manager

Social media managers oversee an organization's social media accounts on sites such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. They develop and implement social media strategies to increase followers, interact with customers, provide direction to other social media employees, and analyze performance. They may collaborate with other marketing managers on larger campaigns.

According to Payscale, social media managers earn an average annual salary of $53,180 as of October 2022. They have skills in strategic planning, marketing communications, and social media optimization.

Digital Marketing Specialist

Digital marketing specialists generate online content, improve search rankings, and increase traffic to their organizations' websites. They study a campaign's target audience and develop content. Digital marketing specialists analyze and test keywords, monitor analytics, and assist with email campaigns.

Top skills include project management, Google analytics, and web marketing. Digital marketing specialists earn an annual average salary of $43,380 in October 2022, according to Payscale.

Marketing Analyst

Marketing analysts boost an organization's advertising efforts. They compile reports on target demographics and market data to help an organization understand their customers. They also propose marketing strategies based on this information.

Top skills for marketing analysts include business analysis, data analysis, strategic marketing, and market analysis. Payscale reports that marketing analysts earn an average annual salary of $58,440 as of October 2022.

Marketing Director

Marketing directors supervise marketing projects and staff. They work with other executives to understand the company's marketing goals, then develop campaigns and assign tasks. They also manage budgets, determine the proper campaign tools, and analyze results.

Important skills for marketing directors include product marketing, strategic marketing, branding, online marketing, and marketing communications. According to Payscale, marketing directors earn an average annual salary of $69,230 in October 2022.

Online MBA in Digital Marketing Curriculum

Coursework in an digital marketing MBA covers business administration and digital marketing fundamentals and strategy. Because exact courses vary by program, students should research each school to determine which curriculum is right for them.

  • Social and Mobile Media

    This course emphasizes core social media and mobile strategies. Topics include geotagging, hyperlocal marketing, and mobile marketing techniques.
  • Digital Marketing Strategy

    Students focus on using social media and digital media to meet company goals. A digital marketing strategy course explores mobile apps, branding and customer engagement, search engines, social media, and return on digital investment.
  • Global Marketing

    This course teaches students how to assess global trends and challenges, adapt marketing approaches to appeal to international interests, and understand the global marketplace as a whole.

How to Choose the Right Online MBA in Digital Marketing Program

Students should research programs that best align with their career goals. Factors to consider include full- versus part-time degree options, affordability, school location, accreditation, extracurricular graduation requirements, and program partnerships with local businesses.

Selecting the right program requires some research, and students should consider different options. For example, a master of science in digital marketing directs more focus to advertising techniques and strategies, while an MBA provides students with a variety of business management skills.

Program structure should also factor into the decision-making process. Students seeking flexibility should look at programs with full- and part-time options and asynchronous learning formats that let students view lectures when convenient. Those looking to get their degree quickly might select an accelerated program.

Find out whether the school offers discounted tuition rates for online learners. For example, some schools allow distance students to pay in-state tuition even if they live elsewhere.

Graduation requirements that extend beyond coursework, such as internships and thesis papers, can provide important experiences for students starting out in the field. Likewise, programs with strong business partnerships can help students make necessary connections.

Finally, students should check each school's accreditation status before applying. Accredited schools meet high educational standards verified by third-party accreditation agencies.

Common Questions About MBA Programs in Digital Marketing

How does the internet help marketing?

Digital media, including the internet, can help marketers reach new audiences they may not otherwise influence. Also, digital marketing allows unique opportunities to customize offers and campaigns to specific audiences.

How much is the salary for an digital marketing professional?

Internet or digital marketing managers can earn between $50,000-$97,000 in average annual salary depending on their experience level.

What are the challenges of digital marketing?

The internet is constantly evolving, so internet marketers need to stay updated on current marketing practices. They should also know different digital marketing platforms, such as mobile and social media marketing.

What can you learn from an MBA program in digital marketing?

MBA digital marketing programs teach digital marketing concepts with managerial skills. Students manage marketing projects, conduct marketing research, and learn global marketing strategies.

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