Best Online Marketing Associate Degrees 2024
A marketing associate is an entry-level role in the marketing industry that helps marketing teams research, plan, and monitor advertising and marketing campaigns. Although they may not have as much training as someone with a bachelor’s degree in marketing, they perform similar tasks as marketing specialists and can be vital to a marketing team’s success.
Employers typically seek candidates with a marketing associate degree for these positions. This degree takes about two years to complete and introduces concepts like consumer behavior, managerial accounting, and marketing decision-making.
A 2020 report from Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce found that graduates with associate degrees in marketing, business management, or administration earn a median salary of $40,000-$50,000.
Explore this guide to learn what to expect from a marketing associate degree, the kinds of jobs it can lead to, and how it can propel your marketing career. Browse some of the top online marketing associate degrees based on our ranking methodology.
The Best Online Associate in Marketing Programs
How We Chose These Schools
At TheBestSchools, we pride ourselves on our proprietary ranking methodology to help prospective students like you find the best fit. Our ranking system uses official government data to present schools without bias, taking into account key factors like academic quality, online offerings, and affordability.
Learn more about how our formula works on our ranking methodology page.
Is Marketing the Right Career Path for Me?
The marketing and business field attracts diverse candidates. Some aim to work with specific products and services, while others pursue the field for its flexibility. In general, marketing and sales careers often appeal to individuals with strong communication and organizational skills. Professionals usually possess high levels of self-confidence and initiative.
You Might Enjoy a Career in Marketing and Sales if You Have…
- Effective interpersonal skills
- Persistence
- Creativity
- Belief in yourself
- Problem-solving skills
What Is an Online Associate Degree in Marketing?
Associate degrees in marketing equip students with knowledge related to promoting goods and services. In addition to teaching learners marketing and selling strategies, most marketing degrees at this level offer general business and marketplace training.
Typically, an online associate degree in marketing features approximately 60 credits and takes students two years to complete. Learners often encounter general education classes, along with coursework in research and management.
While many graduates enter the workforce after completing associate degrees, these programs also provide an pathway to further education. Associate degree-holders can often transfer their credits directly to online bachelor’s degrees in marketing to save money when compared to a four-year degree.
Associate Degree in Marketing Courses
The exact curriculum in a marketing program varies by school, but students can expect to encounter some common courses along the way. In addition to general education and business foundation courses, enrollees may take the following marketing-specific classes:
- Professional selling
- Digital marketing
- Market research
- Advertising
- Consumer behavior
Marketing Skills Learned
Students can pick up human and technical skills that apply to most careers in marketing, including:
- Business communication
- Campaign planning
- Market research
- Social media management
- Basic design
- Marketing technology
Choosing an Online Associate in Marketing Program
Prospective students should consider multiple factors when choosing an online college to ensure it meets their needs and professional aspirations. As with on-campus schools, learners should research program curricula, specializations, and available student services.
They should also explore online-specific options, such as asynchronous vs. synchronous course delivery, flat-rate tuition policies, and residency requirements.
What Kind of Jobs Can You Get With a Marketing Associate Degree?
Graduates with associate degrees in marketing can qualify for entry-level positions as marketing assistants, media planners, content creators, and brand representatives. They may work under promotions or advertising managers or take on sales-related roles.
Wholesale and Manufacturing Sales Representatives
Median Salary (May 2022): $67,750
Wholesale and manufacturing sales representatives establish purchasing contracts and sell products to other businesses. They may help develop pricing and selling strategies while collaborating with technical experts to provide clients with in-depth product information. Sales representatives also attend trade shows and research potential markets.
Advertising Sales Agents
Median Salary (May 2022): $58,450
Advertising sales agents sell their organization’s services to people and other companies. They may sell advertising space, ad placements, or entire campaign management services. These agents create presentations, attend trade shows, and work with commercial printers to create the final products.
Insurance Sales Agents
Median Salary (May 2022): $57,860
Insurance sales agents sell insurance coverage and plans to individuals and organizations. They work with customers to determine the best coverage for their needs and expand their customer bases with sales strategies. They provide consumers with policy information, oversee account changes, and process renewals.
Common Questions About Marketing Degrees and Careers
What is AMA certification?
The American Marketing Association offers certifications for experienced marketing professionals. A certification candidate typically needs a degree and several years of experience for eligibility.
How long does it take to get an associate degree in marketing?
Most students take two years to complete associate degrees in marketing. Some programs offer accelerated pathways and/or part-time options.
Does marketing involve math?
Yes. An associate degree in marketing may include math courses in statistics, economics, finance, and pricing.
Does marketing pay well?
Yes. The marketing field offers some of the most competitive wages in business. For example, marketing managers make a median annual wage of $141,490, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Is an associate degree in marketing worth it?
If you want to test the waters of the marketing industry before committing to the field, a marketing associate degree can provide an excellent place to start. This degree provides the skills necessary for an entry-level role, allowing you to gain experience in the field. You can also transfer this degree into a bachelor’s degree in marketing or a similar field, like business, human resources, or finance.