Best Online Master's in Internet Marketing Programs

Last Updated: May 2, 2019

In today’s modern world, the internet is always in your pocket, and you don’t have to spend very long online to see an advertisement. Ads show up on Instagram, Facebook feeds, and blogs, and if you follow an influencer then you’ve probably seen their sponsored posts. Behind each of these ads is an internet marketing manager.

Internet marketing managers mastermind social media campaigns, oversee video production projects, and manage websites, all with an eye toward increasing their company’s public presence. These managers can work for nonprofits, small businesses, or large corporations and they can be found in most industries. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that advertising, promotions, and marketing manager positions will grow 10% between 2016 and 2026 -- faster than the national average for all professions.

If you’re organized, creative, and goal-oriented, you might enjoy a career in internet marketing. The median pay for promotions managers is $132,620 per year, and earning a master’s degree in this field is convenient with an online program. The best online programs provide practical experience, and graduates leave with impressive portfolios that lead to jobs as marketing directors, social media managers, or communication coordinators.

Online Master’s in Internet Marketing Degree Program Ranking Guidelines

We selected the degree programs listed below based on quality and range of courses provided, as well as school awards, rankings, and reputation.

RANKING METHODOLOGY

Methodology for College Rankings

The motto of TheBestSchools.org is Finding the best school for you. Here is how we do it:

The value of any ranking list of schools and/or degree programs depends on having a methodologically sound assessment of each school’s/program’s characteristics, especially insofar as these can be objectively measured. A college or university is a complex entity, with numerous factors to consider, and distilling these down to the place where meaningful comparisons can be made to form a defensible ranking list becomes part science and part art.

To meet this challenge—and thereby provide you with the most useful and insightful educational rankings on the Internet — TheBestSchools.org formulates our rankings based on five informational categories (six, when considering online schools). The major metrics and qualities for which we rank are these (with expanded, detailed considerations and weights listed):

1. Academic excellence based on a school’s curriculum generally or within the selected discipline [weight = 25%]

• Weighs school against known leading schools in that discipline
• Weighs number of core curricula listed as advanced courses within that discipline and compares against introductory courses
• Weighs school’s curriculum against known knowledge needs of major employers in that discipline
• Considers number and types of specializations offered within that discipline
• Considers faculty expertise in that discipline
• Considers range of electives within that discipline
• Considers quality of online environment offered to students (if applicable), particularly within that discipline

2. Strength of faculty scholarship [weight = 25%]

• Considers education background of the faculty
• Considers years of faculty experience both inside and outside of academia.
• Considers faculty membership and leadership within relevant, prominent associations
• Considers academic papers published by faculty in relevant, prominent periodicals
• Considers awards and recognitions given to faculty members from prominent organizations and from other sources

3. Reputation [weight = 20%]

• Considers a school’s reputation among academic peers and employers regarding the following:
  • Faculty
  • Curriculum
  • “Freshness” of academic knowledge
  • Adaptability to changes in employment sectors
  • Suitability of graduates for the workplace

4. Financial aid [weight = 10%]

• Mandatory: Requires full accreditation from an agency endorsed by the U.S. Department of Education and listed on the federal register to accept student federal financial aid
• Considers range of school-sponsored financial aid such as scholarships and grants

5. Range of degree programs [weight = 20%]

• Considers range of degree levels: associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral and professional
• Considers range of degree subjects offered, such as art & design, computers & technology, education & teaching, criminal justice, and business

6. Strength of online instruction methodology (if applicable) [weight = 25%; subtract 5% from each of the above for online schools/programs]

• Considers the following of the online classes:
  • Types of online technology used to deliver content
  • Pedagogy style: asynchronous, synchronous, or both (depending on the degree)
  • Extent and quality of the online, community learning environment, including options for communication, interactivity, and collaboration between students and also between students and instructors
  • Variety, breadth, and depth of coursework, and its support, including project options and online tutoring
• Considers the following of instructors:
  • Extent of training for teaching within an online learning environment
  • Amount of timely, consistent feedback to students
  • Extent of collaboration with prospective employers to ensure suitability of instructional materials for achieving desired skills
  • Ratio to number of students in a class
• Number and quality of internships in a student’s geographical area for applicable degrees

Because students tend to review a variety of information when choosing a school, the weight a student gives any one criterion will vary. For instance, it’s not enough to offer a carefully constructed ranking of great schools if many are too expensive or too difficult to get into.

To better serve the needs of prospective students, we are therefore increasingly offering filters that help you better use our rankings to find the schools that match your specific needs. These supplement our ranking criteria and include:

• Accreditation
• Public or private status
• Acceptance rate
• Retention rate
• Graduation rate
• ACT/SAT requirements
• Cost in-state / out of state
• Undergrad, grad, or both offered
• Region
• State
• City

Get the best rankings here AND get them to suit your personal needs. That’s TheBestSchools.org advantage!

If you have any questions about our ranking methodology, please contact us.

Citations: For a broader account of our ranking methodology, especially as it relates to TheBestSchools.org’s underlying educational philosophy and, in other ranking articles, looks beyond academic excellence (as here) to such factors as return on investment or incidental benefit, see our article “ Ranking Methodology: How We Rank Schools at TBS.” Reputation of schools and degree programs can at least in part be gauged through the rankings of other well-known educational ranking companies. At TheBestSchools.org, we keep track of such social and peer validation: “ Making Sense of College Rankings.” For nuts-and-bolts information about colleges and universities, we look to the National Center for Education Statistics and especially its College Navigator. Insofar as salary and inflation data are relevant to a ranking, we look to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Finally, nothing beats contacting schools and degree programs directly, which our researchers often do, with the result that all the entries in this article should be considered as belonging to this citation!

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The Best Online Master’s in Internet Marketing Programs

1. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Champaign, Illinois

A global research institution, U of I educates more than 47,000 students. The school was founded in 1867 and currently serves as the flagship campus for the University of Illinois system. The Gies College of Business, established in 1915, educates 4,200 students and offers more than 20 programs, including 12 advanced degrees. The iMBA, offered in partnership with Coursera, brings the college’s rigorous MBA program to a virtual classroom. The iMBA is a career-curated, first-of-its-kind experience that prepares graduate students for business mastery.

The 24-part iMBA features three optional specializations. The digital marketing specialization explores the potential of data-driven promotion and sales. Students not only learn how to navigate the digital environment, but also how to apply analytics, defend strategies, and use emerging online channels. Core courses, meanwhile, focus on developing leadership skills, investing capital, and assessing markets. Courses in the iMBA blend asynchronous, self-paced video lectures and synchronous, interactive online class sessions. Most students take 23 to 36 months to complete the 72-credit program.

To apply, prospective students must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Applicants submit an essay and three letters of recommendation. U of I recommends submitting GMAT or GRE scores. The admissions office approves applications three times per year.

U of I is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

2. Brandeis University

Waltham, Massachusetts

Brandeis University was founded in 1948 in Waltham, Massachusetts as a nonsectarian institution for research. The school has promoted distance education for more than a decade and currently offers 12 master’s degrees and one graduate certificate.

Launched in 2015, Brandeis University’s master’s degree in digital marketing explores the topics fundamental to digital design. Consisting of 10 courses, this 30-credit program prepares graduates to create online campaigns, brand promotion, and product launches across a variety of digital channels. Students learn the keys to digital marketing strategy, including how to optimize content, recognize marketing gaps, and capitalize on new opportunities. Distance learners also gain skills in advanced media tools and SEO best practices.

Students in the program complete seven required core courses and three electives. Core courses offer a broad overview of digital marketing with topics such as web analytics and writing for digital environments. Electives hone in on the development of marketable skills such as digital imaging, software development, and responsive web design. Courses are asynchronous and generally serve 12 students. All classes cap at 20 students. Part-time students can complete the online digital marketing and design MS at Brandeis in 18 months. Applicants must have taken at least two marketing courses or have two years of relevant work experience. The school does not require GRE or GMAT scores.

Brandeis University is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.

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3. Temple University

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Established in 1918, the Fox School of Business at Temple University serves more than 9,000 full-time students. Based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, FSB is the region’s second-largest graduate business school. More than 1,300 students are currently enrolled in the school’s MBA, Ph.D, and specialized master’s programs.

The MS in digital innovation in marketing teaches students how to develop digital marketing strategies, apply the latest innovations, and interpret metrics for maximum impact and informed decision-making. Students in the 30-credit program complete eight core courses, including information systems, business models, and marketing. The program culminates in a six-credit capstone. Courses are synchronous with an emphasis on high levels of engagement among peers and with instructors. There are no on-site requirements. Part-time and full-time options are available. Once matriculation begins, students have two years to complete the program. Part-time students can complete the degree in as little as 16 months.

To apply to Temple’s internet marketing master’s degree program, prospective students must have a baccalaureate degree, preferably in business. Applicants submit two letters of reference, two essays, and GMAT/GRE scores. Up to six transfer credits are allowed. Prerequisites include enterprise architecture and marketing management and strategy.

Temple University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. All FSB graduate programs are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.

4. Missouri University of Science and Technology

Rolla, Missouri

In 1870, Missouri S&T became one of the first technological institutions west of the Mississippi River. Today, the university serves nearly 9,000 students in 97 programs. Students can customize an advanced degree by adding graduate certificates.

Students in the AACSB-accredited MBA or Master in Information Science and Technology at Missouri S&T can choose from a variety of technology certificates, including: digital marketing, electronic and social commerce, and enterprise resource planning. These certificates teach students how to use technology to streamline production, maximize resources, and inform decisions. A graduate degree with a concentration digital media e-commerce, or ERP prepares students for the business challenges of tomorrow. The programs take two to three years to complete.

The 36-credit online MBA requires seven core courses and five electives. A graduate certificate may account for 12 of the required 15 elective credits. The online MS IST is 30 credits, four core courses and six electives. The digital media certificate focuses on the importance of social and digital networks and their role in modern business planning. Topics covered include big data, business analytics, and marketing strategy.

To be considered, MBA applicants must provide proof of a bachelor’s degree. Additionally, they should hold a minimum 3.0 GPA or the last two years of coursework. Prospective students should score a 550 or better for the GMAT or a 290 or better for the GRE.

Missouri S&T has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1913.

5. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

Winona, Minnesota

A Lasallian Catholic university based in Winona, Minnesota, SMU has served the educational needs of the Gopher State since 1912. The school offers 60 programs on-campus, in blended format, and online to accommodate working professionals. SMU’s 30-credit MBA consists of 10 courses, split between seven classes in business and three in a chosen concentration. Students may choose from three areas of emphasis: data analytics, social media management and marketing, and sustainability/environmental management.

The master’s degree in internet marketing from SMU features courses in digital storytelling, brand strategy, and ethics in social marketing. Learners discover how to create interactive narratives, assemble a brand hierarchy, and articulate media economics. The ethics course, which takes on issues like the concept of privacy and truth in art, prepares MBA candidates for the NISM Social Media Strategist certification exam. Core courses, meanwhile, focus in on developing a strong business acumen and leadership skills.

Asynchronously taught, this accelerated program takes 18 months or less to complete.
The live-case capstone may be completed locally at an approved organization. There are three start dates each year. Application requirements include an undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited institution, a 2.75 GPA, a written statement, and two letters of reference. Upon approval, students may transfer up to six graduate credits.

SMU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

6. Messiah College

Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania

Founded in 1909, Messiah College is a nondenominational Christian college located in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. Today, its student body exceeds 3,300. The college offered its first online courses in 2008 and launched its first graduate program in 2009. Messiah College offers over 150 undergraduate programs and 27 graduate degrees and certificates. The 36-credit MBA program features six concentrations, including social entrepreneurship and dietetics.

The MBA with a concentration in digital marketing focuses on navigating the world of online advertising, social media, and big data. Students learn how to ethically target customers and grow business.The MBA curriculum includes nine courses in core topics such as business strategy and innovation. Courses in the digital marketing concentration address logic, strategy, and the power of analytics. Terms last eight weeks, with sessions available year-round. The master’s in internet marketing concludes with an integrated capstone bridging theory with practice. The MBA program takes two years to complete.

Prior to applying, prospective MBA candidates must fulfill prerequisites in microeconomics, finance, accounting, and statistics. Applicants must hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 from a regionally accredited institution. All online students pay the same tuition rate. Discounts for graduate degrees and certificates are renewable every year until program completion.

Messiah is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

7. Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, New Hampshire

Based in Manchester, New Hampshire, SNHU’s enrollment extends far beyond its municipal borders. While more than 3,000 students attend the university campus, over 80,000 are enrolled in distance education. SNHU offers a catalog of 200 online programs, including an MBA with a choice of 27 concentrations. Taught entirely online, the 12-course MBA in social media takes just over a year to complete.

This master’s program focuses on creating and implementing effective social media marketing campaigns. Graduates are proficient in conducting market research, unlocking insights via analytics, and leveraging social media for business success. In addition to three courses in the social media concentration, students also complete eight in core business concepts. The program culminates in a capstone. Courses are asynchronous. Students must meet prerequisites in statistics, economics, financial reporting, business law, and human behavior. Oftentimes, SNHU will waive these courses for prior undergraduate coursework.

SNHU makes admissions decisions on a rolling basis so students may apply at any time. There are five terms per academic year. SNHU offers a 25% discount for U.S. service members and spouses of active-duty military personnel.

SNHU is regionally accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.

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8. Montclair State University

Montclair, New Jersey

Founded in 1908, Montclair State now serves more than 20,000 students through its nine colleges and schools. The AACSB-accredited Feliciano School of Business offers several graduate certificates, two master of science programs, and four MBAs. Students in the online MBA may choose from four concentrations, including digital marketing.

The MBA in digital marketing requires 39 credits and takes 24 to 27 months to complete. Terms run for eight weeks, and there are six start dates per year. The curriculum for this master’s degree in internet marketing consists of 24 courses: 18 in core business topics and six in digital marketing. Students study social and mobile media, geotagging, the evolution of social media, digital ad planning, omni-channel retailing, and return on digital marketing investment. All courses are asynchronous and the average class size is 23.

Graduate school applicants must submit official transcripts, an essay, resume, and two letters of reference. The school may waive the GMAT/GRE requirement for students with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better.

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

9. Fort Hays State University

Hays, Kansas

A leader in distance education, Fort Hays offers over 50 online degrees and nearly 600 online courses per semester. Approximately half the student body enrolls in FHSU’s virtual college, which has served busy learners for more than two decades. Today, more than 6,000 students attend FHSU online.

FHSU’s online MBA is a flexible, rigorous program intended for working professionals. The 34-credit degree consists of 12 courses: nine in core business topics and three in a chosen concentration. The school offers 12 MBA concentrations, including accounting, human resources management, and leadership studies. The concentration in digital marketing explores the concepts, issues, and strategies that have emerged with the ride of the internet and social media. The core MBA curriculum covers fundamental business topics such as managerial accounting, information systems, and corporate finance. Part-time students can complete this internet marketing master’s degree in three years. No campus visits are required and courses are asynchronous. Terms begin three times a year.

To apply, prospective MBA candidates must submit official transcripts, a resume, two letters of recommendation, GMAT/GRE test scores, and a personal statement. Virtual college students receive a tuition discount regardless of state residency. Up to nine graduate credits may transfer into the program upon approval by the MBA committee. Foundational MBA prerequisites may be waived with an undergraduate degree in business.

FHSU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

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10. Benedictine University

Lisle, Illinois

Benedictine University in Lisle, Illinois, has provided liberal arts education for more than 130 years. The Roman Catholic university offers 65 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including 11 online degrees. Benedictine’s career-oriented online MBA prepares students to take on leadership roles in their organizations. Seven concentrations allow students to hone their skills in an area of interest. The MBA in internet marketing delves into web analytics, social media, SEO, and conversion optimization. Students analyze online customer behavior to inform decisions on campaign strategy, forecasting, and segmentation.

Benedictine uses quarter hours instead of semester hours. The core curriculum is 52 quarter hours, while each concentration is 12 quarter hours. This master’s degree in internet marketing requires no on-campus visits. Distance learners have a choice between two tracks: a traditional path that takes 22 months and an accelerated path that students can complete in as little as a year. Courses are asynchronous.

Students may transfer up to 32 quarter hours for previous graduate courses. Business students may also apply a maximum of 16 undergraduate credits. The school provides six start dates per year, meaning new students can start the program quickly. Graduate applications require transcripts, two letters of recommendation, and a letter of intent. Potential students should have a minimum GPA 2.75 in all postsecondary coursework. Tuition is the same for all online students regardless of state residency. Benedictine participates in the Yellow Ribbon program and grants benefits to military members and their spouses.

Benedictine is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

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11. Ohio Christian University

Circleville, Ohio

Founded in 1948 as a school for the clergy, OCU is a private, Christian college rooted in the Wesleyan tradition. The school offers degrees in professional studies to more than 4,000 students. The university imparts a biblical worldview in all of its educational offerings. OCU’s MBA emphasizes business management skills, ethics, critical thinking, and strategic decision-making. There are six concentrations to choose from, including from accounting, organizational leadership, and digital marketing.

Comprised of 36 credits, the MBA in digital marketing requires eight core courses and four courses in the concentration. The core curriculum offers an overview of business essentials, including finance, management theory, and global business. A course in the psychology of marketing breaks down ways to better understand the customer base. In the product and brand development class, students learn about market research and branding within the e-commerce environment.

Participation is asynchronous. Students go through the program together as a cohort. All courses last six weeks. Residents of Ohio or Georgia have the option to enroll in a blended format which meets once a week. There are two semesters per academic year, and each semester is split into two terms. MBA applicants must hold an undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited institution. Potential students should have at least a 2.5 GPA. OCU offers a discount on tuition for qualified military students, veterans, spouses, and dependents.

OCU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

12. Fairleigh Dickinson University-Metropolitan Campus

Teaneck, New Jersey

Located in Teaneck, New Jersey, FDU serves 12,000 students. The school offers over 100 programs, including four business master’s degrees. The MS in digital marketing, launched in spring 2017, is a 30-credit program that prepares current and aspiring marketing professionals for work in the online environment. Students gain skills such as analytics, SEO, and digital engagement.

The digital marketing degree requires two marketing courses, seven digital strategy courses, four enrichment courses, and a capstone. Topics include marketing strategy, social media, and consumer behavior. Students learn as part of a cohort and participate in teams to simulate work in the real world. Classes are limited to 25 students so that each learner can receive individual attention. Asynchronous courses allow students to access lectures whenever is most convenient. The program concludes with a choice of either an internship or thesis project. Part-time students can finish the degree in two years.

Applicants submit official transcripts, GRE or GMAT scores, and letters of recommendation. Potential students also must be available for personal interviews, which are not mandatory but may be used to determine final admission decisions. Students without a business background must complete additional foundational courses. FDU has been educating veterans since 1946 and is a proud Yellow Ribbon university.

FDU is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

13. Excelsior College

Albany, New York

Excelsior College, a distance-learning institution based in Albany, New York, offers more than 30 online undergraduate and graduate degree programs to more than 32,000 students. Founded in 1971 by the New York State Board of Regents, Excelsior was developed to serve the educational needs of adult learners and working professionals. Excelsior’s associate, bachelor’s, and advanced business programs focus in on high-growth industries. The MBA in social media management was one of the first programs in the specialization offered online.

This master’s degree in internet marketing teaches students how to navigate digital space and apply data-driven strategies. The program integrates traditional marketing with social media. Students learn how to cultivate customer relationships, launch social media marketing campaigns, build brand awareness, and generate buzz.

The 36-credit MBA features 27 credits in core business topics and nine in the concentration. Depending on prior learning, students may have to complete an additional nine credits in economics, organizational behavior, and quantitative analysis. These business prerequisites may be waived upon approval of undergraduate courses earned with a grade B or better. Students may transfer up to 24 approved credits. To apply, prospective MBA candidates must hold a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution. The school does not require GMAT or GRE scores. Tuition assistance is available for active military and veteran students.

Excelsior is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

14. National University

La Jolla, California

Founded in 1971, National University is located in La Jolla, California. The school offers more than 100 programs on-campus and online. Its unique four-week class format means students have 12 windows per year to start, resume, or complete their degrees. The MBA program at NU is available in nine concentrations, including financial management, international business, and mobile marketing and social media.

The MBA in mobile marketing and social media prepares students for marketing in an online environment. Learning outcomes include energizing a customer base, evaluating marketing plans in a digital economy, and establishing a web presence. Comprised of a minimum 63 quarter units, this internet marketing master’s degree explores topics such as analytics, customer insights, branding, and tracking return on investment. The curriculum breaks down into five core requirements, four electives, and five courses in the social media concentration.

To apply, students must hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university and have a 2.5 GPA or better. Students may transfer up to 13.5 quarter units of prior graduate coursework in which they earned a "B" or better. Students without a business background may have to take three additional foundational courses. For waiver consideration, students take exams that test their knowledge.

National University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

What is a Master’s in Internet Marketing Degree?

A master’s in internet marketing covers a variety of advanced marketing, business, and communication courses, including an introduction to digital marketing communication, strategic online marketing, and channels for online marketing. Students receive overviews of search engine marketing and search engine optimization and learn how to implement what they learn.

Examples of business topics frequently incorporated into an internet marketing master’s degree include business law, economics, and finance. Students learn how to integrate business strategies with digital environments to target consumers and enhance organizational productivity. Advanced training in research methodology and business mathematics is often included in the required curriculum.

Students who pursue a master’s degree in internet marketing frequently start in an MBA or communication program that offers a concentration in online marketing. In addition to studying online marketing practices, most programs offer electives that prepare students for careers working with specific types of technology, such as email or mobile marketing. Most programs include a capstone project where students select a research topic and apply appropriate methodology to address the digital marketing issue.

Online Master’s in Internet Marketing Programs

Online master’s degree programs differ from traditional programs mostly in format, though the two generally include similar workloads. Asynchronous online programs allow students to watch recorded lectures, interact with peers on discussion boards, and take tests online on their own schedules. Some online programs, however, include in-person components, like supervised exams or annual seminars. Students who are independent, self-motivated, and organized thrive in online programs.

People who respond well to structure tend to prefer traditional in-person programs, though they might enjoy a synchronous program. Synchronous online programs include scheduled class times when students must log on and attend virtual class, usually through an online discussion forum.

Online degrees allow learners to gain experience working remotely, which gives them a feel for how they would do in a telecommuting job after graduation. Since internet marketing professionals primarily work online, they can often work from home. Pursuing an online degree demonstrates to future employers that you are self-disciplined and can work effectively without close supervision.

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The Advantages of a Master’s Degree in Internet Marketing

Earning a master’s degree means new career opportunities. Bachelor’s degrees prepare students for entry-level positions, like coordinators and specialists, where they implement campaigns but don’t contribute to big-picture decisions, like forming strategies. Other entry-level internet marketing positions include social media coordinators, assistant content creators, and marketing specialists.

Earning a master’s degree teaches students how to develop marketing plans, manage budgets, approve messages, and oversee employees. With a master’s degree, you can pursue higher-level positions, like marketing manager, communication director, or creative director. These positions offer more earning potential than the positions you can get with a bachelor’s, as demonstrated in the table below.

Average Salary by Degree Level

Degree Level	Average Salary
Bachelor’s in Internet Marketing	$60,000
Master’s in Internet Marketing	$64,000

Source: Payscale

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What Can You Do With a Master’s Degree in Internet Marketing?

A master’s in internet marketing prepares graduates for success in communication jobs like press secretary or art director. Communicators learn strategies to use their creativity, organization, and analytical skills to reach more consumers. Below are just a few of the jobs that communications master’s graduates can pursue.

• Online Marketing Manager: These professionals use online marketing tools to help organizations build public images and increase sales. They do this through online advertisements, search engine optimization, and social media campaigns, and they often oversee an entire marketing department. Online marketing managers must have strong leadership and effective storytelling skills
• Marketing Managers: Marketing managers are similar to online marketing managers in that they are chiefly concerned with increasing brand awareness. However, their work isn’t restricted to the online space, though they may use online advertisements. Marketing managers also oversee advertising campaigns in analog spaces, like subway posters, billboards, television and radio commercials, or magazine advertisements.
• Digital Project Manager: Digital project managers oversee the creation of digital campaigns on a practical level, managing budgets, delegating assignments, and evaluating the project’s effectiveness. This career is good for people who are detail oriented and love problem-solving
• Brand Manager: Brand managers help an organization or company develop name recognition among target audiences by controlling the way the brand presents itself. One of their major responsibilities is enforcing company trademarks. Their goal is to ensure that consumers associate positive feelings with the brand.
• Communications Directors: These professionals oversee public messaging, not just marketing. Communication directors also use unpaid media, like interviews or grassroots social campaigns, to reach target demographics. At nonprofits, they help spread issue awareness, rally support, and solicit donations. In corporate settings, they oversee internal and external messaging, like notifying stakeholders about changes.

Salary by Experience for Internet Marketing Careers

Job Title	Entry Level (0-5 Years)	Midcareer (5-10 Years)	Experienced (10-20 Years)	Late Career (20+ Years)
Online Marketing Manager	$52,000	$71,000	$77,000	N/A
Marketing Managers	$54,000	$67,000	$74,000	$79,000
Digital Project Manager	$54,000	$69,000	$87,000	$80,000
Brand Manager	$57,000	$77,000	$88,000	$88,000
Communications Directors	$45,000	$61,000	$80,000	$91,000

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Choosing an Online Internet Marketing Graduate Degree Program

There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing a master’s in digital marketing online degree program. Given the amount of time and money that you’ll invest in the degree, it’s important to choose the program that’s right for you.

When selecting a program, set high standards. In order to guide your decision process, determine the criteria that’s most important to you in a school. Message each school directly and ask additional questions. With all the options available, you should be able to find the perfect program for you. Below are a few factors to consider:

1. Program Cost: For most students, tuition price is a major consideration. You can often save money on tuition by attending a top school in your home state, though some schools offer online tuition rates that are comparable to in-state tuition. Shop around so you can get a feel for what price points are normal.
2. Transfer policies: Even if you absolutely love your program, life has a way of intervening, and you might need to transfer. Before signing up for a program, read the school’s transfer agreement. Generally, schools with regional accreditation have more transferable credits. If you already have transfer credits that you’d like to apply toward your degree, check with each school’s admissions department. Some schools accept more credits than others.
3. School Size and Type: When choosing a school, consider what learning environment works best for you. If you feel overwhelmed interacting with many students, attending a small, private university might be right for you. If you get energized hearing from many, diverse voices, consider a large, public university. Keep in mind that advanced classes at public universities tend to be smaller than entry-level courses.
4. Program Length: There can be a lot of variation when it comes to program length. Most internet marketing master’s programs take two years for full-time students, but students with full-time jobs should consider attending school part-time. A master’s program typically takes part-time students four years to complete.
5. On-campus Requirements: Some online programs have on-campus requirements. Usually these requirements are minimal, like annual weekend seminars, but hybrid programs can include whole classes that must be attended in person. When choosing a program, especially out-of-state, pay close attention to on-campus requirements before signing up. Transportation to these events can present an unexpected financial burden.
6. Thesis, Fellowship, and Work Requirements: In addition to routine classwork, most online master’s degrees include thesis projects, fellowships, or work requirements. While these are great learning experiences, they also mean more time and attention. You must plan ahead to fit these extra requirements into your schedule.

Accreditation for Online Internet Marketing Master’s Degrees

Accreditation is a key factor when choosing an online degree. Without accreditation, your degree might not be worth much. The U.S. Department of Education (ED) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) oversee accrediting bodies, ensuring that they only grant accreditation to schools meet that high educational standards. To quickly check whether or not a school is accredited by an approved agency, visit CHEA’s accrediting agencies list.

There are three kinds of accreditation that schools can receive: national accreditation, regional accreditation, and programmatic accreditation. If a school holds national accreditation, it’s most likely a trade or vocational school, and its accrediting agency operates across the entire U.S. On the other hand, schools with regional accreditation are approved by an agency in a particular region. Generally, schools with regional accreditation are liberal arts colleges and have more transferable credits.

Both regionally accredited and nationally accredited schools can hold programmatic accreditation for internet marketing, meaning that the program itself is accredited rather than the whole school. The Digital Marketing Institute provides programmatic accreditation for internet marketing programs.

How Long Does It Take to Complete an Online Master of Internet Marketing Degree Program?

Most internet marketing online master’s programs require 60 credits. Students can usually complete courses at their own pace, but most schools set minimum and maximum semester credit requirements. Students who attend school full time finish faster, while those with jobs or families to manage often choose to enroll part time. On average, full-time students complete their degrees in two years, while part-time students take about four years.

Completing your degree in a timely manner can save you money, especially with tuition rates rising each year. If you want to complete your degree sooner, look for an accelerated program, or a school that will allow you to double up your credits.

Courses in an Online Master’s in Internet Marketing Program

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Internet Marketing Professional Organizations

• The American Marketing Association: The AMA provides ongoing education and support for marketing professionals through its 70 local chapters. Members can access exclusive AMA content, like informational white papers, and discounts on products and events. The AMA also offers professional certifications and training opportunities.
• Internet Marketing Association: IMA advocates for internet marketing best practices and helps members achieve their professional goals. The organization provides a free membership, which includes access to industry trends and data reports, a peer community, event invitations, and professional certification opportunities. The premium membership includes invitations to an exclusive conference and regular email newsletters.
• Public Relations Society of America: PRSA advocates for integrity in the public relations field. Members can attend regional meetings and webinars with informative speakers, access exclusive job boards, view articles and email newsletters, and network with one another through annual conferences. PRSA is ideal for professionals who are interested in communicating with diverse populations.
• Sales and Marketing Executives International: This international organization connects its members with other marketing professionals all across the world. SMEI members can access certification classes, online forums, and webinars. The organization also hosts a blog, which is a useful educational tool and a publishing opportunity for SMEI members.
• Social Media Club: SMC connects its members with other social media professionals from all over the world. The clubs mission is to promote inclusivity and digital literacy in online social spaces. Members receive free or discounted access to SMC conferences and events, white papers, and industry research. Businesses can also join and advertise through SMC’s marketing channels.

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