Best Online Certificate in Marketing Programs
Updated October 5, 2023
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Choosing the right certificate in marketing program requires an understanding of how certificates align with your professional goals.
A certificate in marketing can lead to an entry-level job, a career change, or a management position. These programs cover foundational and specialized material at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Marketing training can help professionals pursue some of the most in-demand positions in business and finance.
For example, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects an 18% growth in market research analyst jobs from 2019-2029 — more than four times the average rate for all occupations. Though COVID-19 negatively affected the marketing profession, the pandemic also reshaped markets and changed how organizations reach consumers. This shift could lead to an even greater demand for professionals with digital marketing and e-commerce skills.
With the variety of marketing certificate programs and career pathways available, choosing the best program can be challenging. This page aims to help students with this decision by providing detailed information on the various marketing credentials and careers, along with a ranking of the best marketing certificate programs online.
Featured Online Schools
The Best Online Certificate in Marketing Programs
These rankings include
#1 Best Online Certificate in Marketing Programs
Ferris State University
Big Rapids, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Ferris State University offers an online direct marketing certificate that provides a flexible route to training for the marketing field. The public institution offers 57 certificate programs, supporting distance learners from its main campus in Big Rapids, Michigan.
The marketing curriculum challenges participants with industry-tailored classes which offer insights into the profession. Certificate-seekers can also participate in experiential learning opportunities focused on their career goals. Enrollees can adapt the program based on their unique needs and schedule. The online direct marketing program offers tracks for full-time and part-time students. These flexible options appeal to working professionals and busy learners.
The accredited institution meets federal requirements to distribute financial aid assistance based on the FAFSA. The school qualifies for federal financial aid programs such as the Pell Grant. Out of the total student body, 95% receive financial aid, and the school reports a 47% graduation rate.
#2 Best Online Certificate in Marketing Programs
Macomb Community College
Warren, MI - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Macomb Community College offers an online digital marketing certificate for students interested in marketing careers. From its campus in Warren, Michigan, the public institution lets learners choose from 107 certificate options.
The marketing curriculum incorporates industry-tailored classes that provide deep insights into the profession. Certificate-seekers work with faculty members to customize their course of study and gain hands-on training related to their career goals. Flexible class schedules and enrollment options meet the needs of diverse learners. The online digital marketing program provides full-time and part-time enrollment options. Working professionals and busy students rely on this flexibility.
Learners can reach out to the financial aid office to learn more about opportunities to pay for a certificate. The school connects students with financial aid resources, including scholarships and federal aid programs. With 57% of all enrollees receiving financial aid, the school boasts a 12% graduation rate.
#3 Best Online Certificate in Marketing Programs
Ozarks Technical Community College
Springfield, MO - 2 years
- Online + Campus
The online marketing certificate at Ozarks Technical Community College ranks high among programs of its kind. Located in Springfield, Missouri, the public institution offers 33 certificate options.
With career-focused classes, the marketing program covers core topics while also offering insights into professional roles and responsibilities. Certificate-seekers gain hands-on experience to provide career-specific training. Learners choose flexible enrollment options based on their schedules. The online business and marketing program enrolls students full time and part time. Busy students benefit from the flexibility to balance school with work and other obligations.
The accredited institution meets federal requirements for distance learners to submit the FAFSA and receive aid. The school connects students with financial aid resources, including scholarships and federal aid programs. The institution reports a graduation rate of 30%, with 95% of enrollees receiving financial aid.
#4 Best Online Certificate in Marketing Programs
Hagerstown Community College
Hagerstown, MD - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Hagerstown Community College offers an online marketing certificate that provides a flexible route to training for the marketing field. The public institution offers 31 certificate programs, supporting distance learners from its main campus in Maryland.
Participants in the marketing program benefit from industry-tailored classes, deepening their knowledge of the marketing field while gaining insight into industry professions. Certificate-seekers can also pursue experiential learning opportunities to prepare for the workforce. Enrollees can choose classes based on their schedule and needs. The online marketing program offers tracks for full-time and part-time students. Busy students benefit from the flexibility to balance school with work and other obligations.
The accredited institution meets federal requirements for distance learners to submit the FAFSA and receive aid. The school connects students with financial aid resources, including scholarships and federal aid programs. The institution reports a graduation rate of 29%, with 77% of enrollees receiving financial aid.
#5 Best Online Certificate in Marketing Programs
Montgomery County Community College
Blue Bell, PA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
The online marketing certificate at Montgomery County Community College ranks high for students seeking online marketing training. The public institution, located in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania, offers 23 certificate programs.
With industry-tailored classes, the marketing program builds key knowledge and skills while providing insights into the profession. Certificate-seekers can also pursue experiential learning opportunities to prepare for the workforce. Learners can modify the program based on their schedule. The marketing certificate program offers distance learners the option of full-time or part-time enrollment. This flexibility appeals to busy students and working professionals.
Learners can contact the financial aid office to learn more about eligibility for assistance and financial aid opportunities. The school's financial aid funding includes institutional aid, external scholarships, and federal financial aid programs. According to the most recent data, 60% of the student body receives financial aid, while the school reports a graduation rate of 24%.
#6 Best Online Certificate in Marketing Programs
Scottsdale Community College
Scottsdale, AZ - 2 years
- Campus
The online social media marketing certificate at Scottsdale Community College offers career-focused training in a flexible format. Learners can enroll in 98 certificates offered from the Arizona campus of the public institution.
With career-focused classes, the program introduces participants to industry-relevant topics while providing insights into professional roles. Certificate-seekers train for their career goals by taking on experiential learning opportunities. Learners can adapt the schedule to fit their needs with flexible coursework options. The social media marketing program uses full-time and part-time schedules for distance learners. This flexibility helps working professionals and other busy students.
Distance learners can contact the financial aid office to learn more about eligibility for certificate programs. The school qualifies for federal financial aid programs such as the Pell Grant. Out of the total student body, 56% receive financial aid, and the school reports a 19% graduation rate.
#7 Best Online Certificate in Marketing Programs
Dakota County Technical College
Rosemount, MN - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Dakota County Technical College offers an online sales specialist certificate that appeals to students seeking flexible career training. From its campus in Rosemount, Minnesota, the public institution lets learners choose from 82 certificate options.
Participants in the sales program deepen their knowledge of the field through industry-tailored classes. Certificate-seekers work with faculty mentors to individualize their program and pursue experiential learning opportunities. Enrollees also have the option to modify their coursework and degree trajectory to suit their schedule. The sales specialist program uses full-time and part-time schedules for distance learners. These flexible options appeal to working professionals and busy students.
The financial aid office provides more information about eligibility for aid and funding for certificate programs. The school distributes federal financial aid programs like the Pell Grant. Currently, 77% of enrollees receive financial aid, and the school has a 55% graduation rate.
#8 Best Online Certificate in Marketing Programs
Thomas Edison State University
Trenton, NJ - 4 years
- Online
Thomas Edison State University offers an online marketing certificate that provides a flexible route to training for the marketing field. Located in Trenton, New Jersey, the public institution lets learners choose from 13 certificate options.
The marketing program offers industry insights and career-focused training throughout its curriculum. Certificate-seekers can also use hands-on training to gain skills through workshops, events, and internships. Enrollees choose classes based on their schedule, needs, and career goals. The online marketing certificate program offers tracks for full-time and part-time students. This flexibility helps busy students balance school with work and other responsibilities.
The financial aid office helps learners identify funding sources for certificate programs. The school offers several internal and external funding opportunities, including scholarships and federal loans.
#9 Best Online Certificate in Marketing Programs
Georgia Piedmont Technical College
Clarkston, GA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
The flexible marketing certificate at Georgia Piedmont Technical College provides an online route to marketing training. Learners enroll in 105 certificates offered from the Clarkston, Georgia, campus of the public institution.
With career-focused classes, the marketing program covers core topics while also offering insights into professional roles and responsibilities. Certificate-seekers work with faculty members to customize their course of study and gain hands-on training related to their career goals. Flexible enrollment options allow learners to fit school into their schedule. Distance learners choose from full-time and part-time options in the online marketing specialist program. This flexibility makes it easier for busy students to balance school with work or other responsibilities.
Learners can reach out to the financial aid office to learn more about opportunities to pay for a certificate. Qualifying students enrolled in certificate programs can submit the FAFSA and pay for school with the Pell Grant. The institution reports that 94% of enrollees receive financial aid, and the overall graduation rate is 51%.
#10 Best Online Certificate in Marketing Programs
Normandale Community College
Bloomington, MN - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Normandale Community College offers an online certificate for students interested in marketing careers. The public institution offers 25 certificate programs from its main campus in Bloomington, Minnesota.
The marketing curriculum draws on industry-relevant topics to provide participants a deep understanding of the profession. Certificate-seekers work with faculty mentors to individualize their program and pursue experiential learning opportunities. Enrollees can modify the program based on their schedule. The marketing certificate program enrolls distance learners full time and part time. This flexibility makes it easier for working professionals and busy students to complete the program.
Learners can contact the financial aid office for information about assistance and eligibility guidelines for certificate programs. The school distributes federal financial aid programs like the Pell Grant. Currently, 76% of the student body receives some form of financial aid, and the school has a 26% graduation rate.
Online Marketing Certificate Program Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Our Methodology
Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.
Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools cannot buy better rankings at TBS.
While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.
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Academics -
Affordability -
Online Enrollment
Data Sources
The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.
The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the College Navigator.
Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from AcademicInfluence.com, subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.
Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology
About Our Ranking Factors
Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.
Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.
We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.
Academics - 75%
Affordability - 15%
Online Enrollment - 10%
In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.
If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through contact page.
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What Is an Online Marketing Certificate?
Marketing certificate programs vary considerably, depending on the level and focus of the training. Some programs teach marketing fundamentals to help graduates qualify for entry-level positions, while others offer advanced material for experienced professionals who wish to expand their skill sets.
Students will learn to create branding strategies, analyze market trends, and measure brand and campaign effectiveness. They may also acquire specialized skills in digital marketing, international marketing, or marketing analytics.
Certificates in marketing typically provide the same core content as marketing degrees, but in more condensed formats and without the general education courses. These programs usually provide transferable college credits, which is helpful for students who want to pursue degrees.
What's the Difference Between a Marketing Certificate and an Associate Degree in Marketing?
An associate degree in marketing provides similar core training to an entry-level certificate in marketing in addition to general education courses in science and humanities. These two-year degrees prepare graduates for the workforce while setting the foundation for further studies.
The best online associate marketing degrees offer comprehensive training in different aspects of the profession, such as social media marketing, public relations, and integrated communications. Graduates can then qualify for positions in advertising sales or public relations. Many schools offer marketing certificate programs and degrees to accommodate students of different backgrounds and goals.
What Can You Do With a Marketing Certificate?
Graduates with a certificate in marketing are prepared to take on entry-level roles in advertising, market research, and social media. For experienced professionals in business and community management, marketing certificate programs can build on business and branding fundamentals to tackle complex and advanced concepts, such as fundraising and public relations.
Advertising
Advertising professionals help organizations market their products and services. Advertising duties may include identifying target markets, creating marketing campaigns, and selling advertising services.
Marketing certificate program coursework in basic branding and consumer markets helps candidates land entry-level jobs, and classes in advertising design, copywriting, and digital marketing can help experienced professionals take on creative aspects of the field.
Market Research
Market researchers analyze consumer markets and the demand for various products and services. Analysts in this field identify market opportunities for organizations and provide information on competitors, consumer buying habits, and purchasing trends.
Certificate in marketing students can prepare for market research roles by taking classes in marketing analytics, research, and statistics. Learners may also take coursework in consumer behavior, branding, and business intelligence training.
Social Media
Social media professionals manage social media marketing campaigns, create digital content, and foster online communities. These individuals drive consumer interactions and help maintain a company's voice and public appearance.
Marketing certificate programs online can equip both new and seasoned marketing professionals with updated skills for these positions. Candidates seeking social media roles would benefit from taking courses in public relations, digital marketing, and social media.
Choosing an Online Program
When choosing a certificate in marketing, prospective students should consider their career goals and interests. Learners should examine the job requirements for their ideal positions and ensure their certificates provide them with the right skill set. Readers can find more information on choosing the right program at the links below.
Accreditation for Marketing Programs
Applicants should ensure that prospective schools possess regional accreditation. Attending non-accredited schools could lead to employment and financial aid challenges down the road.
Marketing students should also consider programmatic accreditation. Many business and marketing programs receive accreditation from industry organizations, such as the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. This recognition ensures the program's training meets or exceeds industry standards.
What to Expect From a Marketing Certificate
Marketing certificate coursework varies based on level and type of training. While every program features its own curriculum, the following section highlights common courses offered by certificate programs.
Marketing Curriculum
- B2B Advertising: This course teaches students how to market products to businesses. Training covers identifying buyer needs, creating product value, and developing pricing and communication strategies.
- B2C Digital Marketing: Enrollees will learn about digital marketing strategies, online buying behaviors, and e-commerce marketplaces. Learners will also take courses in social media and search engine marketing.
- Business Communications: Business communications courses teach learners to communicate effectively through speech and writing. Students learn to use business language in emails, presentations, meetings, and customer service settings.
- Customer Service: Enrollees examine the role of customer service in modern organizations, including how to deliver effective service in person, in writing, and online.
- Marketing Strategies: Marketing strategies courses teach students to analyze market conditions and consumer groups. Enrollees learn to develop effective strategies that meet the needs of consumers and align with organizational branding.
- Professional Selling: Students learn to communicate with buyers and adapt their sales strategies to fit unique situations. Coursework covers buyer behavior, psychology, and persuasion tactics.
How Long Does It Take To Get a Marketing Certificate?
Marketing certificate programs typically take less than one year to complete. Many programs consist of 12-18 specialized course credits, which students can finish in less than six months of full-time study.
Working professionals can enroll in online marketing certificate programs part time. Students can have up to three years to complete these certificates.
Marketing Certifications
Marketing certificate programs train students in certain areas of the field, whereas marketing certifications recognize professionals who meet specific industry standards. In some cases, the training provided by a certificate in marketing can help individuals acquire certification.
While eligibility requirements vary by credential, applicants typically need a combination of prior education and experience to qualify. Some organizations offer optional preparation programs.
Marketing certifications usually require candidates to pass an examination, after which professionals can apply for certification. These credentials often last 1-5 years and can be renewed by completing continuing education credits. Some common marketing certifications include:
Marketing Organizations
Professional marketing organizations offer benefits to both new and seasoned professionals. Students and recent graduates can take advantage of career support and mentorship programs, while veteran marketers benefit from networking events, continuing education courses, and professional development programs.
Some organizations accept members from different marketing disciplines across the country, while others limit memberships to individuals from certain geographical regions or specialized groups. These organizations include the American Marketing Association, Black Marketers Association of America, African-American Marketing Association, and the Hispanic Marketing Council.
Marketing Careers
Marketing professionals use their skills in many different careers and industries. Marketing degrees and marketing certificate programs provide access to some of the most promising roles in business and finance.
The list below highlights some of the most common career paths for marketing graduates, but certificate-holders can pursue many other positions depending on their experience and education.
| Marketing Career | Median Salary (2020) |
|---|---|
| Marketing Managers | $141,490 |
| Public Relations and Fundraising Managers | $118,430 |
| Market Research Analysts | $65,810 |
| Public Relations Specialists | $62,810 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Can You Do With a Certificate in Marketing?
A certificate in marketing helps graduates acquire both entry-level and leadership positions in public relations, market research, and social media. Professionals with previous experience can use certificates to advance their careers or expand their responsibilities.
What Are the Best Marketing Certifications?
The best marketing certifications depend on the student and their career goals, as employers typically value credentials that are relevant to their industry. Some highly valued certifications include the Google Ads and Analytics credentials and digital marketing certifications.
Is a Certificate in Marketing Worth It?
Professionals with a certificate in marketing can enter the field in less than a year. These credentials may also help individuals switch careers, advance in their company, or earn more money.
Featured Image Credit: Luis Alvarez | DigitalVIsion | Getty Images
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