collageIf you enjoy working with the general public and have a knack for sales, you may want to consider an online associate degree in marketing. Marketing professionals work in many different roles, from managers to salespeople. A company’s success or failure rests on the shoulders of marketers who convince consumers to buy a product or service. A successful marketing campaign can even launch a product all over the world.
Earning an marketing associate degree online could be your first step toward pioneering marketing campaigns for your favorite brands. With field experience, you can work as a marketing manager, a position that averages more than $129,000 annually, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. You can pursue many different career paths within marketing, some of which may require further education. To maximize your earning potential, consider entering a bachelor’s program after receiving your associate degree in marketing online. Both degrees are available online, allowing you to work while you complete your education.
Table of Contents
Online Associate in Marketing Degree Program Ranking Guidelines
We selected the degree programs based on the quality of program and range of courses available as well as school awards, rankings, and reputation.
RANKING METHODOLOGY
The Best Online Associate in Marketing Programs
SORT BYDEFAULTA-ZCOLLAPSE LIST
| 1 | Coastal Pines Technical College | WAYCROSS, GA | School ProfileApply NowCoastal Pines Technical College is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). | Coastal Pines Technical College, located in Waycross, Georgia, hosts an online marketing associate degree program that provides students with a strong foundation in marketing and management. The program prepares graduates for entry-level career opportunities, while also readying them to enroll…See More |
| 2 | Florida Institute of Technology – Florida Tech University Online | MELBOURNE, FL | School ProfileApply NowFlorida Institute of Technology – Florida Tech University Online is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). | Founded in 1958 and located in the city of Melbourne, the Florida Institute of Technology offers a popular associate of arts in marketing online degree. This program teaches students about the consumer market through courses like global business perspectives, advertising…See More |
| 3 | Lakeshore Technical College | CLEVELAND, WI | School ProfileApply NowLakeshore Technical College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). | Lakeshore Technical College, based in Cleveland, Wisconsin, offers an associate in applied science in marketing degree. This program features a specialization in digital marketing and social media marketing strategies. Over the course of four terms (approximately two years), degree candidates…See More |
| 4 | Atlanta Technical College | ATLANTA, GA | School ProfileApply Now | |
| 5 | Miami Dade College | MIAMI, FL | School ProfileApply Now | |
| 6 | Albany Technical College | ALBANY, GA | School ProfileApply Now | |
| 7 | Fox Valley Technical College | APPLETON, WI | School ProfileApply Now | |
| 8 | Rhodes State College | LIMA, OH | School ProfileApply Now | |
| 9 | University of Northwestern Ohio | LIMA, OH | School ProfileApply Now | |
| 10 | Chattahoochee Technical College | MARIETTA, GA | School ProfileApply Now | |
| 11 | Southern New Hampshire University | MANCHESTER, NH | School ProfileApply Now | |
| 12 | Kennebec Valley Community College | FAIRFIELD, ME | School ProfileApply Now | |
| 13 | Northwest Mississippi Community College | SENATOBIA, MS | School ProfileApply Now | |
| 14 | Dakota County Technical College | ROSEMOUNT, MN | School ProfileApply Now | |
| 15 | Blue Ridge Community College | WEYERS CAVE, VA | School ProfileApply Now | |
| 16 | Ozarks Technical Community College | SPRINGFIELD, MO | School ProfileApply Now | |
| 17 | Columbus State Community College | COLUMBUS, OH | School ProfileApply Now | |
| 18 | Herkimer County Community College | HERKIMER, NY | School ProfileApply Now | |
| 19 | Northcentral Technical College | WAUSAU, WI | School ProfileApply Now | |
| 20 | Normandale Community College | BLOOMINGTON, MN | School ProfileApply Now | |
| 21 | Mesa Community College | MESA, AZ | School ProfileApply Now | |
| 22 | Macomb Community College | WARREN, MI | School ProfileApply Now | |
| 23 | Pitt Community College | WINTERVILLE, NC | School ProfileApply Now | |
| 24 | Fayetteville Technical Community College | FAYETTEVILLE, NC | School ProfileApply Now | |
| 25 | Milwaukee Area Technical College | MILWAUKEE, WI | School ProfileApply Now |
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What Can I Do With an Online Marketing Associate Degree?
Pursuing an online marketing associate degree prepares students to work in various careers. Marketing is a broad field, allowing graduates the freedom to choose almost any career. After completing an online marketing associate degree, graduates can go on to work as public relations coordinators, event coordinators, sales specialists, marketing assistants, and advertising coordinators. Organized individuals, self-starters, and people who thrive from variety may enjoy working in this growing field.Public Relations CoordinatorAll organizations need a positive public image to succeed. As a public relations coordinator, individuals work to make this possible. They do so through managing media relations, organizing and promoting events, and communicating on social media. Individuals with an associate degree work to implement the strategies that those with advanced degrees create.Salary based on experience:
- Entry Level: $37,000
- Mid-Career: $44,000
- Experienced: $51,000
- Late Career: $48,000
Event CoordinatorIndividuals who enjoy overseeing a project’s many components often find a satisfying career in event coordinating. Event coordinators plan parties, charity events, and business conferences. They oversee every event aspect and evaluate the event’s success. Strong interpersonal and organizational skills benefit individuals in this field. Seeking advanced education allows professionals to oversee larger events and hold more responsibility for their projects.Salary based on experience:
- Entry Level: $37,000
- Mid-Career: $42,000
- Experienced: $45,000
- Late Career: $46,000
Sales SpecialistIndividuals who love helping others make informed purchases and decisions will thrive as a sales specialist. These professionals develop customer relationships and drive product sales. This career often involves traveling to meet potential customers, which provides variety in the work week. Self-motivated individuals thrive in this career and earn many opportunities to move up through strong performance and further education.Salary based on experience:
- Entry Level: $33,000
- Mid-Career: $37,000
- Experienced: $44,000
- Late Career: $44,000
Marketing AssistantA typical day for a marketing assistant includes working behind the scenes to collect and analyze data and helping develop marketing strategies. This position provides a great first step into a marketing career, making it an ideal job for an individual with an online marketing associate degree.Salary based on experience:
- Entry Level: $34,000
- Mid-Career: $38,000
- Experienced: $40,000
- Late Career: $37,000
Advertising CoordinatorAdvertising coordinators work in many different industries. Any organization with a product to sell requires advertising in some way. These professionals work with the media, coordinate with clients, and meet regular deadlines.Salary based on experience:
- Entry Level: $39,000
- Mid-Career: $42,000
- Experienced: $47,000
- Late Career: $50,000
Source: PayScale
Choosing an Online Marketing Associate Degree Program
See the 50 Best Online Colleges & Universities for 2020
Deciding where to pursue an associate in marketing online presents some challenges. With so many options, individuals should examine various factors to feel confident. Cost is crucial for most prospective students, so research tuition rates. Looking at in-state programs helps with this decision, as schools typically offer a more affordable tuition rate for in-state residents. Depending on flexibility, students may want to research the requirements for their online marketing associate degree and program length. Knowing the details and studying information carefully empowers students to make an informed decision.Program Cost:Cost is often one of the biggest factors to consider while researching potential schools. While it’s important to find an affordable option, seek a school that provides the best educational value at the best price. Most online programs charge tuition on a per credit basis, so knowing program length and credit requirements gives students a better idea of the total cost. Prospective students should also research financial aid options, such as scholarships or the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.Transfer Policies:Students transferring from another school should pay attention to transfer policies; however, incoming freshmen should also consider the transfer policy should they decide to transfer mid program. It takes time to find schools with solid transfer agreements and to learn how transfer credits help fulfill requirements, but this work helps prevent students from retaking unnecessary courses.School Size and Type:The school type can affect your online class experience. Research whether a school identifies as public or private, as this often impacts the program’s cost and class size. Public schools typically cost less and offer more opportunities for financial aid, but sometimes maintain larger class sizes, meaning a student’s instructor could be less available for answering questions. Private colleges maintain smaller class sizes and often include more one-on-one interactions with professors, but often cost much more. Determining your ideal environment plays a major part in this decision.Program Length:Students have different needs, meaning the length requirement for completing an associate degree in marketing online could make a difference in their choice. Most schools allow students to take classes on a part-time or full-time basis, with different timelines depending on their status. Whether individuals want to pursue an accelerated program or take their time as they balance school with work, knowing the program length helps with deciding on a school.On-Campus Requirements:Some schools maintain on-campus requirements, such as a seated class, quarterly meetings, or experiences that occurs one or two times. Students should consider their flexibility for these requirements when researching online programs. Distance from campus or other responsibilities may prevent students from attending on-campus requirements.
Accreditation for Online Marketing Associate Degrees
When selecting an online marketing associate degree program, pay attention to a school’s accreditation. Accrediting bodies regularly assess schools and assure they provide a quality education. Reputable accrediting bodies include the Higher Learning Commission, Middle States Commission on Higher Education, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, and the New England Commission of Higher Education. To ensure these accrediting bodies maintain a high standard, The U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) perform quality checks and provide resources for finding approved accrediting bodies. Visiting the CHEA’s accrediting agencies list provides a quick check on a school’s accrediting body.
Schools receive either national accreditation, regional accreditation, or programmatic accreditation. Schools obtain national accreditation from a certified agency that can accredit schools throughout the United States. These schools typically function as vocational or technical schools, sometimes with a religious emphasis. Transferring credits to another institution from a nationally accredited school can be difficult. Institutions that hold regional accreditation receive their accreditation from certified agencies that only accredit institutions within a certain region. These schools typically have more transferable credits. Programmatic accreditation, which can be national or regional, involves a body that accredits specific programs. The Digital Marketing Institute is a programmatic accreditor in the marketing field. A school’s accreditation is important to consider, especially for students who wish to transfer credits later.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Associate Degree in Marketing?
An online degree’s flexibility appeals to individuals in various situations. Whether a student hopes to complete the program quickly or take their time while working or raising a family, students pursuing an online marketing associate degree have options. Most degrees include about 60 credits and can be completed in approximately two years as a full-time student. Taking classes part time will increase the time to complete the degree but will lessen the course load per semester. Many programs offer an accelerated program, allowing students to complete their degrees quickly, but students must devote more time in a shorter time span to the program. Some programs require a seated portion or on-campus meetings, which could affect the speed in which students complete the degree. Knowing these facts about several programs helps students find the right path.
Courses in an Online Marketing Associate Program
Marketing ManagementThrough analyzing case studies, field interviews, and new research, learners study the marketing profession’s procedures and practices. These courses focus on how students can help companies, groups, and individuals develop successful strategies. Some courses include a decision-making simulation where students can experience what a real-life situation looks like.Mathematics for BusinessMarketing involves mathematics and economics, so courses in math help students to acquire skills necessary for the profession. Students begin with various math skill levels, but these courses break down information and make it easy to understand. Learners study subjects such as discounts and interest formulas, pricing merchandise, investments, and statistics.Marketing ResearchProfessionals must know their organization’s market, so a course in marketing research provides valuable information. Students in this course explore collecting and analyzing data for individual markets and use it to create a marketing plan. These courses often end with a project involving market research and reporting the findings, giving students applicable experience.Selling PrinciplesLearning sales philosophy provides a foundation for students pursuing an associate degree in marketing online. In this course, learners study and practice various sales strategies and techniques. Students also examine human behavior and how to use it in practice.Advertising ManagementThis course helps students master the careful thought and planning that advertising requires. Students look at the advertising process, such as planning, implementing, and monitoring an advertising campaign. Students gain practice applying these techniques in simulated exercises and projects, preparing them to use this knowledge in future careers.
Marketing Professional Organizations
Most employers want to employ lifelong learners and workers committed to staying current on the latest research and ideas. Joining a marketing professional organization helps individuals demonstrate this commitment. Professional organizations offer many benefits to enhance your knowledge and career. Some organizations host conferences that feature inspiring guest speakers and sessions that provide the latest marketing research. Many organizations also provide members with online resources or regular emails with new information. Joining while pursuing an associate in marketing online shows an early commitment to continued learning. Many organizations offer a discounted student price.American Marketing AssociationA community of marketers with a mission to shape current and future marketing strategies, the AMA formed in 1937 and continues to stand strong. With more than 70 chapters across the United States, the organization provides an excellent opportunity for its members to network with other professionals. Members also enjoy exclusive resources and discounts on products and events.National Association of Sales ProfessionalsThis organization helps sales professionals excel and gain confidence. The NASP provides various educational materials to members, including online certification and training programs. Focusing on ethics, this organization sets members up for success and teaches them necessary interpersonal communication skills. Individuals in marketing roles also benefit from joining this thriving organization.Public Relations Society of AmericaServing more than 30,000 members, PRSA is a great organization for connecting with communication and public relations professionals. The organization strives to help professionals stay informed and connected to strengthen their career. With many online tools, regular conferences, and a strong student chapter, individuals acquiring an associate in marketing online greatly benefit from this organization.
The world of marketing is ideal for students who are driven, creative, and who have an entrepreneurial mind. As technology continues to advance at a rapid rate, there is a high demand for professionals who can lead the way toward the next generation in marketing and related fields like advertising, public relations, and communication. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that marketing will see about 9% growth between 2014 and 2024, which is slightly above the national average in the U.S.
Pursuing an online marketing associate degree is a great first step to a dynamic career in this industry. An online marketing degree can prepare you for a variety of entry-level positions within a variety of different business and organizations worldwide.
What are the best marketing programs of 2020? Here are our top 10:
| Rank | School | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lake Area Technical Institute | Watertown, SD |
| 2 | Kennebec Valley Community College | Fairfield, ME |
| 3 | Holmes Community College | Goodman, MS |
| 4 | Southern New Hampshire University | Manchester, NH |
| 5 | Georgia Piedmont Technical College | Clarkston, GA |
| 6 | Lakeshore Technical College | Cleveland, WI |
| 7 | North Dakota State College of Science | Wahpeton, ND |
| 8 | Fox Valley Technical College | Appleton, WI |
| 9 | Southern Regional Technical College | Thomasville, GA |
| 10 | Coastal Pines Technical College | Waycross, GA |
What Else Can I Expect From an Online Associate in Marketing Program?
EXPAND ALLTime to CompleteCredit HoursProgram CostsCore CoursesConcentrationsAccreditation
2020 Best Accredited Online Associate in Marketing Programs
SORT BYDEFAULTCOSTA-ZEXPAND ALL
| 1 | Lake Area Technical Institute | Watertown, SD | COST:$$$$$ | GRADUATION RATE: 71% | |
| 2 | Kennebec Valley Community College | Fairfield, ME | COST:$$$$$ | GRADUATION RATE: 45% | |
| 3 | Holmes Community College | Goodman, MS | COST:$$$$$ | GRADUATION RATE: 35% | |
| 4 | Southern New Hampshire University | Manchester, NH | COST:$$$$$ | GRADUATION RATE: 54% | |
| 5 | Georgia Piedmont Technical College | Clarkston, GA | COST:$$$$$ | GRADUATION RATE: 49% | |
| 6 | Lakeshore Technical College | Cleveland, WI | COST:$$$$$ | GRADUATION RATE: 41% | |
| 7 | North Dakota State College of Science | Wahpeton, ND | COST:$$$$$ | GRADUATION RATE: 49% | |
| 8 | Fox Valley Technical College | Appleton, WI | COST:$$$$$ | GRADUATION RATE: 51% | |
| 9 | Southern Regional Technical College | Thomasville, GA | COST:$$$$$ | GRADUATION RATE: 42% | |
| 10 | Coastal Pines Technical College | Waycross, GA | COST:$$$$$ | GRADUATION RATE: 60% |
What Can I Do With an Associate in Marketing Degree?
CAREER PATHS
When you get an online marketing associate degree, you will have access to numerous career opportunities throughout the industry. Graduates with an online marketing associate degree have access to a wide variety of career opportunities throughout the industry. These jobs are perfect for those with creative and critical thinking skills and typically involve selling products and services, working with customers, and assisting higher-level managers and executives.EXPAND ALLCustomer Service RepresentativeAdvertising Sales AgentMarketing AssistantInsurance Sales AgentCopywriter
EDUCATIONAL PATHS
While an online marketing associate degree is a great first step towards a career in the field, many graduates go on to pursue a bachelor’s degree. This allows them to pursue higher-level positions in the field. For example, marketing managers often command salaries that exceed $100,000 per year once they hit the middle and later stages of their careers. Most of these positions are only available for those who have a higher level of education than an associate degree.
- Marketing: A four-year degree in marketing can provide you with a more in-depth educational experience in the field, allowing you to move into more senior roles within businesses and organizations. Graduates often serve as account executives, marketing managers, and media buyers.
- Public Relations: This field focuses on helping individuals, businesses, and organizations maintain a positive image in the eyes of the public. Graduates of these bachelor’s degree programs go on to become public relations specialists, senior copywriters, and account executives.
- Advertising: Advertising requires creative thinking and the ability to position a brand using a variety of methods. Graduates typically choose to focus their careers on either the creative or sales side of the advertising field.
- Communication: Communication is a broad field that is necessary to almost any business across all industries. Graduates can pursue careers in marketing, public relations, advertising, and more.
- Business Administration: Many online marketing associate degree graduates enter a bachelor’s program in business administration, allowing them to apply key marketing concepts to the global business world. These four-year programs sometimes offer a concentration in marketing.
Employment Outlook for Associate in Marketing Graduates
ASSOCIATE IN MARKETING SALARY
There are many factors that influence the salaries that graduates with an online marketing associate degree can expect. Regardless of the position, you may notice a difference in salary depending on the size of your company, the city and state where you live, and the level of professional experience you have. Below are some of the most common jobs in the field of marketing, along with the estimated salaries you can expect at various stages of your career.Median Salary by Experience
| Job Title | Overall Median Salary | Median Salary for Entry-Level Employees (0-5 years) | Median Salary for Mid-Career Employees (5-10 years) | Median Salary for Late-Career Employees (20+ years) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Copywriter | $48,842 | $46,111 | $55,732 | $57,861 |
| Advertising Sales Agent | $35,604 | $34,492 | $45,000 | $46,000 |
| Insurance Sales Agent | $36,095 | $33,045 | $37,369 | $43,326 |
| Marketing Assistant | $36,833 | $36,281 | $40,669 | $49,339 |
| Customer Service Representative | $36,836 | $34,875 | $37,112 | $41,656 |
Source: PayScale
PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
Becoming engaged with professional organizations is a great choice for young professionals who want to make their mark on the marketing industry. These organizations offer a variety of resources to their members, including webinars and conferences, as well as opportunities for professional development, continuing education, and networking. Below are some of the largest associations for the marketing industry:COLLAPSE ALLAmerican Marketing Association
Known as the preeminent marketing association in the U.S., the AMA promotes marketing best practices and provides its members with professional development and continuing education resources. It also offers a variety of career services.Association of Strategic MarketingBusiness Marketing AssociationAssociation of National Advertisers
Financing Your Online Associate in Marketing Program
There are several ways that you can finance your online marketing associate degree. The first step should always be filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), as it will let you know if you qualify for federal grants, work study programs, or subsidized loans. Many online marketing associate degree students also qualify for a variety of merit- and need-based scholarships.
AN OVERVIEW OF FINANCIAL AID
Approximately two-thirds of today’s college students rely on loans to fund their education, but there are plenty of overlooked financing options you can use to reduce your overall student debt.
UNDERSTANDING THE FAFSA
Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a crucial first step for any student with financial needs. Our FAFSA guide features a step-by-step rundown on the process and answers to several frequently asked questions.
FINANCIAL AID FOR ONLINE STUDENTS
Financial aid for online learning is equivalent to what you’ll find for campus-based learning, but that hasn’t always been the case. Learn about the changes that have taken place, as well as the different funding opportunities available to online students.
SCHOLARSHIPS FOR SINGLE PARENTS
Online college programs can be a flexible, affordable option for single parents who are interested in earning a degree and securing their family’s financial future. We’ve compiled a list of scholarships, grants, and other financial aid options geared toward single moms and dads.
FINANCIAL AID FOR VETERANS AND ACTIVE MILITARY
Millions of dollars in free money is available to U.S. military personnel, but much of it goes unused. Learn more about grants, scholarships, and other financial aid opportunities available to veterans, active-duty service members, and reservists.
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