Marketing is an integral part of effectively packaging and presenting products and/or services to current and potential consumers. Because marketing is such an important part of running successful enterprises, many colleges and universities offer a marketing associate degree. A degree at this level is specific enough to leave students feeling knowledgeable of the field while staying broad enough to give them an overview of how marketing fits into the business world as a whole.
Why an Associate Degree?
From four-year degrees to year-long certifications, there are many options available for those interested in pursuing a degree in marketing. Students researching their options and looking for marketing degree information should give degrees offered at the associate level a consideration. While it’s true that certain jobs in this field prefer and sometimes require applicants to have a bachelor’s degree, people with an associate degree can work their way up to higher-level positions. Plus, should a student desire to continue their academic journey, obtaining an associate degree can be a stepping stone towards a bachelor’s degree.
Getting Into an Associate Degree Program
Each school and program will have its own specific list of admissions requirements, but below are some standard criteria almost every institution will need to make a decision about your enrollment.
- Academic records/transcript
- Completed admissions application
- High school diploma or its equivalent
Inside a Marketing Associate Degree Program
Marketing is an integral part of the business world, so it only makes sense for a marketing degree program to touch on topics like finance, economics, public speaking, and more. Subjects like consumer purchase habits and sales trends are also extensively explored. Some programs like this one offered through Ashworth College even offer different curriculum tracks, depending on what a student’s plans are once they complete the program.
Traditional in-person associate programs usually take about two years to complete, but several courses and even some whole programs are offered online; this allows students to have greater control over how and when they finish school. In addition to being convenient, courses taught online teach students how to thrive and succeed in the modern e-commerce and telecommuting industry. Multinational marketing is also a hot topic, as students need to learn how to compete in our global economy.
What’s Next for Marketing Associate Degree Holders?
An associate degree in marketing is a wise educational and professional investment, as it is an extensively growing field. In fact, Yahoo Education recently listed it is one of the top six in-demand degrees for employers. Yahoo also reported that the average starting salary for marketing professionals is over $41,000.
While an individual can make a substantial living with just an associate degree, it’s important to note that there are many other educational options in this field. Students can go all the way to the Ph.D. level should they desire; they just have to decide what best meets their needs. Regardless of your ultimate goals, you are sure to find an academic track that works for you.