2024 Best Online Master’s in Digital Marketing Programs

Updated on September 17, 2024
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If you are a tech-savvy individual with a knack for communication, an online masters in digital marketing may be a beneficial option for you.

A Master of Digital Marketing degree can help open up a world of career opportunities, from content management and strategy to public relations.

Not only do you have the opportunity to strengthen your hard skills—like data analysis and keyword research—but you also have the chance to improve your leadership and adaptability skills.

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Universities Offering Online Masters in Digital Marketing Degree Program

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

Brandeis University

At Brandeis University, students can complete a Master’s in Digital Marketing and Design fully online, typically in only 1 to 3 years. Courses cover how to design and optimize marketing campaigns while collaborating with stakeholders and remaining on budget. Coursework can be completed on a part-time or full-time schedule.

Brandeis University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

East Tennessee State University

East Tennessee State University’s Master’s in Digital Marketing program is designed to set graduates up to succeed in the growing and dynamic field of digital marketing. The curriculum can help prepare students for marketing in a variety of digital environments, from social media to search engines.

The program consists of 36 credits and is offered fully online.

East Tennessee State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Fairleigh Dickinson University

Fairleigh Dickinson University offers a Master of Science in Digital Marketing. The program is designed to help students obtain the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the rapidly expanding field of digital marketing.

The curriculum includes 30 credits of coursework, and the program can potentially be completed in just 2 years.

Fairleigh Dickinson University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Liberty University

The Master’s in Digital Marketing online degree program at Liberty University is designed to prepare graduates for successful marketing in both traditional and digital media platforms.

By offering flexible scheduling and online classes, Liberty helps students fit their education around their existing responsibilities and complete their degrees in their own time. On average, students can complete the 36 credit digital marketing program in 1.5 years.

Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Northern Illinois University

Northern Illinois University offers a Master of Science in Digital Marketing. The program contains courses on key aspects of digital marketing, including email, social media, databases, and paid digital marketing.

All classes are held online, and the length of the program depends on students’ undergraduate studies and hands-on professional experience.

Northern Illinois University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Rutgers University

Rutgers University offers a Master’s in Digital Marketing. The curriculum centers on understanding the motivations that drive online consumer trends and crafting effective, budget-conscious marketing campaigns.

The program consists of 10 courses and can typically be completed in just 9 months with flexible, online scheduling.

Rutgers University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Southern New Hampshire University

With flexible, online courses, Southern New Hampshire University’s Master’s in Digital Marketing is often a great fit for busy students looking to launch a career in marketing. The degree can potentially be earned in just 15 months.

The curriculum covers key concepts in digital marketing, like pay-per-click campaigns, search engine optimization, and social media strategies to serve their clients.

Southern New Hampshire University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Temple University

At Temple University, students can learn how to harness technology to transform marketing strategy and better serve brands. Temple’s online Master’s in Digital Marketing program spans 5 semesters and includes courses such as Social Media Innovation, Consumer and Buyer Behavior, and Business Intelligence.

The program is designed to help students thrive in their marketing careers.

Temple University is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.

Wake Forest University

In-depth knowledge of marketing in digital environments may broaden career prospects in the marketing field. This makes earning a Master’s in Digital Marketing at Wake Forest University a potentially rewarding step for many students.

The program’s 10 courses can typically be completed in just 2 years and aim to provide graduates with leadership skills, digital acumen, and marketing expertise.

Wake Forest University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Yeshiva University

Industry mentorship and technological innovation are the cornerstones of Yeshiva’s Master’s in Digital Marketing program. Students can specialize in either Marketing Analytics or Digital and Social Strategies, though both share one core curriculum.

Courses are offered online or on campus and can be taken full-time or part-time, allowing students to complete the program’s 30 credits at their own pace.

Yeshiva University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Online Masters in Digital Marketing Programs

In an online digital marketing master’s degree program, you can receive advanced training in using a variety of digital platforms to build brand awareness and promote products.

Why is digital marketing important? As we continue to increase our global dependence on technology, companies are always looking for new ways to increase their sales through innovative and exciting digital marketing campaigns.

A masters in digital marketing curriculum covers topics like search engine optimization and social media marketing. You’ll likely study the communication, creativity, and problem-solving skills typical of a traditional marketing degree as well.

Additional topics you’ll probably cover during your online digital marketing master’s program include:

While the courses offered varies between schools, digital marketing programs are designed to provide you with the necessary tools to enter the workforce with advanced digital marketing expertise. After earning a digital marketing MS, many graduates go on to help businesses market their products successfully.

Because of its versatility, a masters in digital marketing can prove useful in a diverse range of industries, including:

All of these industries can benefit from professionals who possess strong communication skills, leadership skills, and an understanding of topics directly related to digital marketing. Pay-per-click ads and email marketing are just a few examples of in-demand digital marketing tools.

Digital Marketing MS Careers & Salaries

Earning an advanced business degree in digital marketing can open up an array of career opportunities. Equipped with data and analytics skills, a strong knowledge of SEO best practices, and the ability to create content, digital marketers can be useful in a number of roles within a company.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, here are some common careers for those with a digital marketing background.

Careers Annual Median Salaries
Marketing Managers $135,030
Sales Managers $127,490
Advertising and Promotions Managers $127,150
Top Executives $98,980
Management Analysts $93,000
Web Developers and Digital Designers $77,200
Writers and Authors $69,510
Market Research Analysts $63,920
Public Relations Specialists $62,800
Human Resources Specialists $62,290

While digital marketing skills are in high demand, a degree does not guarantee a certain professional position or salary. Companies hire employees based on a number of factors, such as previous work experience and specialized expertise.

The type of position you find can also be impacted by your geographic location and the market’s current job availability.

Digital Marketing Masters Curriculum & Courses

Every university offers a unique curriculum with its own set of courses, but as you move through your digital marketing masters program, you may come across some of the following classes:

While the specific courses you’ll take will vary, your digital marketing program should help you develop a strong understanding of digital marketing tools.

How to Choose an Online Master’s in Digital Marketing Degree Program

There are several factors to consider as you research different master in digital marketing degrees:

Researching each of these aspects prior to applying can help you develop a strong list of potential colleges.

MS in Digital Marketing Admissions Requirements

While every school has its own unique admissions process, there are often similar requirements among institutions, such as the following:

In addition to the items listed above, most colleges will ask for a small application fee. All the pieces of your application are intended to paint a picture of who you are as a candidate, both as a student and an individual.

Digital Marketing Graduate Programs Accreditation

It’s strategic to choose a digital marketing graduate program from an accredited school. Regional accreditation signifies that a college or university offers educational programs that are up to the industry standard.

Future employers will likely want to see that you attended an accredited school. In addition, your school’s accreditation status can impact things like the amount of financial aid you qualify for and the quality of the education you receive.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Financial aid is often available to qualifying students through federal and state loan programs, scholarships, and employer tuition benefits.

You can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see how much federal aid you are eligible for. State financial aid varies between states, so you can check the requirements for your state of residence.

Scholarships and employer tuition benefits are unique to each school and company. You can check with each for specifics on application processes and aid opportunities.

Digital Marketing Professional Organizations

Joining a professional organization allows you to network with other like-minded individuals.

The right professional organization for you will ultimately depend on your career aspirations.

What Can You Do with a Digital Marketing Masters Degree?

Since our global economy is heavily dependent on technology, a digital marketing master degree can lead to many lucrative career opportunities.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists advertising, promotions, and marketing managers as one of the top career paths for digital marketing graduates. Additionally, many graduates choose to become market research analysts or public relations specialists.

Earning a masters degree in digital marketing does not guarantee a specific salary or position post-graduation. After earning their masters, some students elect to continue on and earn either an on-campus or an online PhD in Digital Marketing.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Masters in Digital Marketing Online?

Graduate programs that consist of 36 credit hours and don’t require a thesis can usually be completed in 1 year with full-time enrollment, including the summer term. An online master’s in digital marketing program will typically have shorter terms than in-person options.

The overall length of your online degree in marketing program may be extended if you are required to submit a thesis. Likewise, if you only attend school part-time, you can expect to graduate later than a full-time student.

Is a Masters in Digital Marketing Worth It?

Yes, a masters in digital marketing is worth it for many students. A diverse range of companies are relying more heavily on their online presence to drive sales. In addition to flexible career choices, many of the professional positions associated with a master’s in digital marketing are experiencing faster than average job growth.

For instance, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 10% job growth for advertising, promotions, and marketing managers over the next ten years. Market research analysts are expected to experience 22% job growth over the same time period.

Getting Your Master’s Degree in Digital Marketing Online

Earning a masters degree in digital marketing online can be a lucrative choice for many individuals. If you have strong communication skills and are eager to develop innovative ways for brands to reach their target audiences, then this degree may be a good fit for you.

Digital marketing degree online programs can help you balance your studies with work and other responsibilities.

Many people who earn an advanced degree in digital marketing go on to become integral members of sales and marketing teams. They tend to hold roles like content strategist, SEO specialist, and ecommerce manager.

To begin your journey toward your degree, you can start researching accredited online digital marketing masters programs today!

Discover the degree that aligns with your goals—click “Find My Program” now.

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