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Learn search engine optimization (SEO)

Search engine optimization (SEO) has multiple applications in today's digital world. It's useful across a variety of careers and industries and may help open new doors in your career. Read on to discover what SEO is and what qualifications you'll need to get started in an SEO job.

What is SEO?

SEO is the process of improving a website's visibility in search engine results pages (SERPs) to attract more organic (non-paid) traffic.

It involves optimizing various aspects of a website to make it more attractive to search engines like Google, Bing, or Yahoo. Various courses and degrees that can help you understand SEO — ranging from quick, four-week lessons all the way to bachelor's degrees.

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Choosing the right SEO program for you

Below are a few questions that you can consider when choosing your edX SEO course:

  • How advanced does my knowledge of SEO need to be for my chosen career?
  • How much time will I be able to commit to learning?
  • Is there a certain SEO specialization that I need to focus on?
  • Do I need any specific degrees or certifications to advance in my career?

Courses

Numerous short courses in SEO are available. These programs are typically around four weeks long and give students the tools to begin their SEO journey. They're a great fit for people who are just starting out, as well as anyone well into their career who wants to enhance their SEO skills and knowledge.

Certificates

Professional certificate programs in SEO are a great choice for those who want a deeper knowledge of the subject. These courses are often offered by universities and are around four months long. They expose students to a wider range of SEO topics and look great on your resume.

Executive education programs

Executive education SEO programs are typically aimed at marketing leaders. Many require a short time commitment of around 10 weeks, which is good news for busy professionals who need to add to their skill set.

Degrees

A degree in marketing is a great place to start if you're considering a career in SEO. A bachelor's degree usually takes 3-4 years to complete and gives you a broad knowledge of marketing principles, including SEO.

Jobs in SEO

Those with SEO skills can access a range of career opportunities across various industries.

Depending on their interests and skills, many SEO professionals find roles in business, healthcare, education, technology, or nonprofit organizations. Common positions include writers and content creators, social media specialists, market research analysts, and advertising, promotions, and marketing managers.

Writers and content creators

Writers and content creators produce various forms of online content. They might write blogs, landing pages, and other website content.

Writers often have a bachelor's degree. While journalism and English are popular choices, a variety of other degrees are also suitable. These professionals typically learn new skills on the job. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for writers and authors was $73,690 in May 2023.

Social media specialist

Social media specialists run social media accounts for clients. They must have a good knowledge of how online platforms work, as well as marketing and business skills.

It's common for social media specialists to have a bachelor's degree in marketing, business, or communications. According to the BLS, media and communications workers earned a median annual salary of $66,320 in May 2023.

Market research analyst

Market research analysts study consumer preferences and business conditions to analyze and predict potential sales. They typically need a bachelor's degree, and some employers may prefer candidates with a master's degree.

While their specialization isn't SEO, they need to have at least a basic understanding of how it works. According to BLS, these professionals earned a median annual salary of $74,680 in 2023.

Advertising, promotions, and marketing managers

Advertising, promotions, and marketing managers each have slightly different roles. Together, they work to plan campaigns that generate interest in products or services. They typically must have a bachelor's degree and some work experience to progress to the role of manager.

According to the BLS, the median annual wage for advertising, promotions, and marketing managers was $156,580 per year in May 2023.

Learn SEO online with edX

If you'd like to advance your SEO skills, consider enrolling in one of edX's online courses.

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    FAQs about SEO

    Why should I learn SEO?

    SEO is an important skill to possess in the digital world and can make you a more hirable candidate in a variety of industries.

    How long does it take to learn SEO?

    You can learn the basics of SEO in as little as four weeks. However, depending on your chosen educational pathway, you can spend up to four years earning an undergraduate degree.

    How hard is it to learn SEO?

    Learning the basics of SEO is easy with the right tools. Consider taking a course to help ensure you learn all the most important aspects of SEO.