Is a bachelor's degree in marketing worth it?
A bachelor's degree in marketing can help open doors to a wide variety of careers. The degree program aims to equip graduates with a versatile, in-demand skill set that can be applied to many industries. Read on to find out what a bachelor's degree program in marketing entails, which jobs it can lead to, and how much graduates can expect to earn.
What is a bachelor's degree in marketing?
A bachelor's degree in marketing is an undergraduate credential. It usually takes students four years to complete a program in marketing, but the timeline can vary depending on your specific program and course load. Students can expect classes to cover a wide range of topics, from general business skills to niche marketing concepts. Each school's bachelor's program in marketing has a slightly different approach, but some topics that are often covered include:
- Market research
- Consumer behavior
- Digital marketing
- Brand management
- Sales management
- Advertising and promotion
- Business and economics courses
- Marketing analytics
- Global marketing
Some schools may also offer elective courses focused on specific areas of interest, such as graphic design, social media marketing, and public relations. The list of possible courses is long and varied because marketing is a broad field of study — each school and program maintains unique focus areas.
Benefits of a bachelor's degree in marketing
A degree in marketing can be a great fit for students who know they want to pursue careers in the field or who want to develop in-demand, transferable skills. Below are some of the top reasons to get a degree in marketing:
- Discover how to blend analytical and creative thinking
- Earn a credential that offers career flexibility and transferability
- Gain insight into consumer behavior
- Learn how to create a strong personal brand, which can be a great asset in any career
How much money can you make with a bachelor's degree in marketing?
A bachelor's degree in marketing can lead to many different careers in a variety of fields. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), in 2023, many marketing roles made well above the national median across all occupations ($48,060) and are in high demand. Salaries vary depending on a professional's location, industry, and level of experience.
Below, find some jobs you can pursue with a bachelor's degree in marketing, with salary and job outlook information from the BLS.
| Job title | Median annual salary (2023) | Job outlook (2023-33) |
|---|---|---|
| Advertising, promotions, and marketing manager | Median annual salary (2023): $156,580 | 8% |
| Market research analyst | Median annual salary (2023): $74,680 | 8% |
| Public relations specialist | Median annual salary (2023): $66,750 | 6% |