The marketing mix of product, pricing, placement, and promotion presents many opportunities for creative individuals to use their talents to help sell businesses sell their products and services. Keep in mind that a marketing degree is not always necessary for a career in this field, however. If you have a degree in English, journalism, communications, or public relations, many employers will consider this evidence you have the basic skills necessary to succeed as a marketing professional.
If you decide that a marketing degree is needed for you to obtain suitable employment in the field, the first step will be to decide how much time you want to invest in your education. Earning an Associate of Business Administration Marketing or Associate in Arts Marketing will give some job opportunities, but not as many as someone with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration Marketing or Bachelor of Science in Business Marketing. However, many of the credits earned in for an associate's degree can be transferred towards a bachelor's degree at a later date.
When completing your marketing degree, keep in mind that it's smart to use the elective coursework you take can to further your career objectives. Psychology, sociology, economics, and anthropology are good minors for marketing majors. If you hope to work in a specific area, such as sports marketing or healthcare marketing, any classes relating to these fields will be helpful as well
If you have work or family obligations that make attending classes difficult, you don't necessarily need to give up your dream of earning a marketing degree. Many colleges and universities offer evening classes to better accommodate the needs of non-traditional students. There are also programs offering degrees in marketing that can be earned by completing some or all of your courses online.
To pay for your education, it's smart to investigate all of the funding opportunities available. Don't assume you must take out expensive student loans. If you complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), you may be able to receive grant money based on your income. There are also many scholarships available for students, including awards that consider factors other than academic achievement.
While a degree in marketing can give you the knowledge you need to begin a new career, practical experience is valuable as well. If possible, choose a program that allows for one or more internships as part of your education. Getting first-hand knowledge of how marketing affects both large and small businesses will be a great boost to your résumé. Additionally, many students who do well with their internship placement find that they are first to be considered when full-time openings are available with the company.
