Affordable Master’s in Marketing Online Degrees | The Best Masters Degrees

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Individuals who enjoy strategic thinking and communication often pursue marketing careers. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), projects jobs for advertising, promotions, and marketing managers to grow 6% between 2019 and 2029. The BLS reports that these professionals earned a median annual income of $135,900 in 2019.

While the BLS notes that some employers only require a bachelor's degree for this job, a master's can position professionals to earn higher wages. Keep reading to learn more about earning a master's in marketing online.

Featured Online Programs


What Are the Goals of a Master's Degree in Marketing?


An online master's in marketing is a multi-faceted degree that opens many opportunities. For this reason, graduate goals vary. For example, some learners may want to seek a promotion within their current company or gain a raise. Others want to switch from an unrelated career to a marketing career. This degree prepares individuals to work in marketing, advertising, promotion, and public relations.

A master's degree in marketing can also position individuals to enter the higher education field, as many colleges either require a master's degree or a doctorate for full-time professors.


Why Get a Degree in Marketing?


Aside from helping individuals achieve career goals, pursuing a master's in marketing online offers other benefits. See below for some advantages of earning a marketing degree.

  • Higher Pay: According to PayScale, individuals with a master's degree earn $74,850 on average, while professionals with a bachelor's degree only earn $62,057.

  • Ability to Switch Careers:This versatile degree covers many aspects of marketing, like copywriting and user experience. The degree enables graduates to switch to a similar, yet more specialized job later in their careers.

  • Enhanced Job Security:By gaining more knowledge, professionals can position themselves as an irreplaceable team member.

  • Enhanced Job Performance:Graduates can apply what they learn during their studies to the job, which can lead to successful marketing campaigns. Better job performance gives professionals leverage when asking for a raise.

  • Leadership Credentials:An online marketing master's degree covers leadership principles, like management tips and goal setting. Most leadership positions require advanced education.

FAQ


1. What can I do with a master's degree in marketing?
With a master's in marketing, graduates can work in management positions within the marketing, communication, advertising, promotion, and public relations fields. They can also pursue a career in higher education.

2. Is it worth doing a master's in marketing?
Prospective students should consider education cost and how that compares to their earning potential to determine whether a degree is right for them.

3. Are marketing degrees in demand?
The BLS projects the need for marketing professionals to grow 6% between 2019 and 2029. This exact amount can vary among geographical locations.

4. Should I get an MBA or master's in marketing?
Professionals who want to gain leadership positions specifically in marketing may benefit more from a master's in marketing. Individuals who want to pursue a leadership role in a general business position should pursue an MBA.


Accreditation for Online Master's in Marketing


Prospective students should research a school and a program's accreditation status before enrolling. Colleges and universities can earn regional or national accreditation. When a school earns accreditation, it means it regularly receives quality assessments from a third-party organization that the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation oversee. 

Some accrediting agencies only receive permission from these two organizations to accredit schools in a particular region. Others can accredit schools all across the United States. Typically, employers view degrees from regionally accredited schools as more prestigious than degrees from nationally accredited schools. 

Additionally, some scholarships only award funds to learners studying at regionally accredited institutions. However, this general rule does not apply to vocational schools, as even top vocational schools typically only earn national accreditation. 

Programs can also earn accreditation. For example, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business is the top accrediting agency for business-related programs like marketing.


Master's Degree Courses in Marketing


Typically, learners take 2-4 years to complete a master's in marketing. However, the exact time frame varies based on personal schedules and program pace.

During their studies, marketing students can expect to gain and refine skills. Some of these skills include strategic thinking, interpersonal communication, and organizational skills. Learners should also graduate with enhanced leadership skills.

While specific curriculum varies among schools, most online marketing master's programs offer information on promotional campaigns, client relations, website user experience, search engine optimization, and copywriting.

Keep reading to learn more about specific courses that most programs offer. Note that most institutions refer to these courses under unique titles.

Campaign Strategy

Whether it is a marketing campaign for print, social media, or audio advertisements, learners can apply the knowledge they gain in this course to successfully meet specific goals. This course teaches students how to set realistic goals and design strategies and tactics to meet that goal. Degree-seekers learn how to successfully delegate tasks and create deadlines.

Client Relations

Many marketing professionals work for agencies and serve multiple clients, so many online master's in marketing degrees include a course that focuses on client relations. Learners discover how to pitch ideas to clients, how to manage client expectations, and how to create successful marketing campaigns and efforts for various types of clients.

Website User Experience

A company's website is a valuable marketing tool. For this reason, marketing professionals must know how to evaluate a website from a user experience perspective. A single website user experience course does not teach learners how to code an entire website. However, it helps students understand how to communicate with web developers to create an easy-to-navigate website that funnels sales or donations.

Search Engine Optimization

Marketing professionals can use a website's search engine ranking as a way to gain potential customer attention. This course teaches learners how to use popular keywords, image attributes, and quality writing to enhance a company's search engine visibility. Some search engine optimization courses may also cover Google Ad creation.

Copywriting

Marketing efforts like websites and advertisements typically involve copywriting. In this course, learners discover how to create concise and persuasive copy for print materials, websites, and press releases. A copywriting class also teaches students how to write with specific audiences in mind and how to tailor writing for certain applications.


How Much Do Marketing Majors Make?


According to PayScale, individuals with a master of science in marketing earn $67,033 on average. Years of experience can greatly impact pay, so PayScale also offers information about pay differences between entry-level and experienced professionals.

For example, PayScale reports that the overall average salary for a marketing manager currently stands at $65,400. However, marketing managers with less than one year of experience earn an average salary of $47,900 per year. While at the same time, marketing managers with more than 20 years of experience earn $79,400 per year.

Geographical location can also impact pay. For example, employers in areas with a higher cost of living often pay more than employers in rural areas with lower costs of living.

Read on to learn what it takes to become a marketing manager and more about salary information and job growth potential for specific marketing-related careers.


How to Become a Marketing Manager


To become a marketing manager, most employers require a higher education degree. While some positions only require a bachelor's degree, a master's degree can give job candidates a competitive edge.

During their studies, learners can begin working on their portfolios. Class projects can go into a portfolio. Additionally, pursuing an internship can enhance a student's resume and diversify a portfolio. Some internships offer a salary and may lead to a full-time position after graduation.

Students who earn a master's in marketing online typically submit a thesis or capstone project before they earn a degree. During the final year of their studies, students can begin applying for jobs. Submitting a well-designed and well-written resume and creating an online portfolio can help job applicants attract attention from potential employers.


Career and Salary Outlook for Marketing Majors


Marketing graduates usually experience positive job growth and earning potential. However, certain jobs pay more than others and some jobs are in higher demand. See below for four positions marketing graduates commonly pursue. The chart highlights how these positions' salaries and projected growth rates compare based to BLS data.

  • Advertising, Promotions, and Marketing Manager: These professionals use marketing tactics to persuade audiences to purchase a product or service. They typically work in a traditional office setting with web developers, public relations professionals, photographers, and graphic designers to create successful advertising campaigns. They need strong delegating and analytical skills.
    Median Annual Salary: $135,900
    Projected Growth Rate (2019-2029): 6%

  • Financial Manager: These managers generate reports and oversee investment activities on behalf of a business. They also guide other actions that contribute to a company's financial health, like seeking ways to reduce operating costs. According to the BLS, financial managers usually work 40 hours a week in a traditional office setting.
    Median Annual Salary: $129,890
    Projected Growth Rate (2019-2029): 15%

  • Public Relations Specialist: These professionals use communication outlets like social media, press releases, and newsletters to communicate with target audiences. They maintain positive relationships with community stakeholders — like donors, investors, customers, and employees — through transparent communication. Public relations specialists often plan events and campaigns to gain publicity for clients.
    Median Annual Salary: $61,150
    Projected Growth Rate (2019-2029): 7%

  • Market Research Analyst: These analysts need knowledge of forecast marketing and sales trends. They use statistical software to help companies understand what consumers want and how much they are willing to pay for products. These professionals must assess the information available to them to recommend successful strategies for a business.
    Median Annual Salary: $63,790
    Projected Growth Rate (2019-2029): 18%

Source for Salary: BLS


Scholarships for Master's in Marketing


Although earning a master's in marketing online presents a low-cost alternative to attending on-campus classes, most students need some financial assistance. Luckily, learners can avoid large student loan payments after graduation by applying for scholarships. Learn more about five scholarships reserved exclusively for individuals pursuing a master's in marketing or a related degree.

American Marketing Association Social Impact Scholarship​
Who Can Apply: Students who demonstrate active involvement in their school's American Marketing Association collegiate chapter may apply. The organization reserves this scholarship for students making a positive impact in their community. Applicants must write an essay about how they have helped the environment, worked toward social justice, or improved someone's quality of life.
Amount: Varies

Axia Public Relations Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Students who demonstrate academic achievement and financial need can apply. The Public Relations Society of America awards this scholarship to individuals studying public relations or a similar field like marketing. Both graduate and undergraduate students may apply for this award.
Amount: $2,000

Digital Success Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Students attending a United States college or university who intend to pursue a career in digital marketing may apply. Applicants must choose a prompt from a list and write an essay containing 600-800 words. The annual deadline is the last day of August.
Amount: $500

Summit Marketing Scholarships
Who Can Apply: Summit Digital Marketing offers $500 scholarships to two students each year. To qualify, students must attend an undergraduate or graduate program at a U.S. school. Applicants must study marketing or business, or currently engage in marketing work for a company. This scholarship requires a minimum 2.5 GPA.
Amount: $500

Vincent T. Wasilewski Award
Who Can Apply: Graduate marketing students who are pursuing a degree in any electronic media communications area may apply. Most applicants study TV and radio broadcasting, but learners from other majors may apply. The recipient must attend a school with a Broadcast Education Association membership. This scholarship only requires one application form.
Amount: $4,000


Ranking Methodology


The researchers and writers at Best Master's Degrees do not make recommendations based upon preference — we back our rankings with data. See below for a breakdown on how we organize ranking data:

  • Finances (40%)
  • Academic Rigor (35%)
  • Student Gratification (25%)

Nearly half of the data used to score each ranking involves finances from sources such as the National Center for Education Statistics, the U.S. Department of Labor, U.S. Department of Education, Glassdoor, and PayScale. Financial data encompasses the cost of tuition and fees, the average price of living, access to financial aid and social services, and the projected annual salary acquired from degree outcomes and income for loan repayment.

The second-largest category of information involves the quality of education, how competitive degree applicants should be for consideration, and a program's overall exclusivity. The final 25% of collected data depends upon student and alumni reviews from sources such as PayScale, Rate My Professor, and Students Review.

Want to Learn More?

The amount of information available for specific degrees is plentiful, and Best Master's Degrees aims to provide as many resources as possible. Browse our methodology page for more information and resource links.


Online Affordable Master's in Marketing Degrees



1. Oklahoma State University

Founded as an agricultural and mechanical school, Oklahoma State University continues its original goal of making higher education accessible. Most of OSU's nearly 25,000 students come from Oklahoma and take advantage of the university's low in-state tuition.

OSU's online MBA with a concentration in marketing analytics uses asynchronous courses, allowing students to access their classes at any time. Created for part-time learners, the MBA requires just 33 credits completed in as few as 12 months. The marketing analytics concentration comprises two required courses and two electives, all of which emphasize hands-on learning and use of data and analytics.

Applicants must submit GMAT or GRE test scores, three professional letters of recommendation, and their undergraduate transcripts. OSU charges tuition on a per-credit basis, with non-residents paying a slightly higher rate.



2. California State University – Dominguez Hills

Located in the south bay of Los Angeles, California State University – Dominguez Hills stands out for its commitment to diversity and accessible education. CSU Dominguez Hills offers an affordable education that leads to high-paying career outcomes, and many of its students continue working while earning an online degree.

Graduate students interested in marketing enroll in CSU Dominguez Hills' master of business administration with a concentration in marketing. The program requires 30-60 units, depending on prerequisites. After finishing the prerequisite and core business courses, learners complete 15 marketing concentration units. This concentration requires courses in marketing information management and strategic marketing, followed by three marketing elective courses.

Applicants who hold an accredited business degree can get the business core courses waived, reducing the MBA's time and cost. While California residents benefit from CSU Dominguez Hills' low in-state tuition rates, out-of-state students still pay relatively affordable tuition.



3. Florida International University

Founded in 1972 with a class of over 5,600, Florida International University quickly grew into a globally respected institution. Now with almost 54,000 students, FIU offers internationally minded programs, and the innovative school hosts one of the most robust online schools.

Available entirely online, the master's in marketing online takes 10-16 months to complete. The program uses a cohort system structured for working students who prefer courses during the evenings or weekends. Because of the cohort system learners must complete online courses synchronously; however, this ensures that students graduate on time.

While technically a public research institution, FIU extends the same tuition rate to all online MS in marketing students. The university also offers various forms of financial aid, including scholarships and grants, specifically for marketing students.



4. Fayetteville State University

Founded by Black community leaders in 1867, Fayetteville State University opened its doors to provide education to Black children and those demonstrating need. Today, the university boasts an extensive community outreach program that encourages all students, including those studying online, to donate time through community service.

Created to provide a flexible and affordable option for those interested in business and marketing, the online MBA with a concentration in marketing requires 36 semester credits to complete. The program consists of core classes, several electives, and a capstone project. FSU also connects MBA in marketing students with IT and cyber courses, giving this program an unofficial emphasis on digital marketing.

FSU's online courses last 8-16 weeks, depending on the course and which option students select. The MBA uses a flexible application process, requiring a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, a GMAT score of 400 or higher, and a minimum 2.75 GPA.



5. University of North Carolina

As the nation's first public university, the University of North Carolina has accumulated numerous accolades over its long history. Today, UNC continues to earn respect across the world, a testament to its reputation as a "Public Ivy League School." Despite the university's success, it still manages to offer affordable, flexible programs, particularly to in-state learners.

UNC's online MBA in marketing covers important modern marketing trends, including social media, mobile technology, and e-commerce. Despite being an entirely online program, the MBA in marketing emphasizes hands-on learning, teaching students actionable digital skills from a distance. Graduates of the program end up in various careers, including advertising and product marketing.

Students complete 62 quarter credits to finish the MBA, and UNC allows learners to study at their own pace. Depending on how many courses students complete each quarter, UNC estimates that the MBA takes 18-36 months to complete.



6. Southeastern Oklahoma State University

Located in the city of Durant, more than half of Southeastern Oklahoma State University 4,700 students are first-generation college attendees. SE specializes in offering quality undergraduate education to adult learners. The university also offers online graduate programs, including an MBA in marketing.

Available 100% online, SE's MBA with a concentration in marketing takes 36 credits to complete, and students graduate in as little as 12 months. Learners complete 24 MBA core credits followed by four marketing courses. The program offers multiple start dates throughout the year, and applicants can begin taking courses two weeks after applying.

SE charges a flat per-credit tuition rate to all online students regardless of state residency. This keeps the program affordable for adult learners studying part-time. Applicants need only submit previous transcripts and proof of a bachelor's degree. SE does not require GMAT or GRE scores.



7. The University of Texas at Dallas

The University of Texas at Dallas is a fast-growing school that continues to add new programs. The university's graduate students now make up nearly one-third of the entire student body.

Ideal for students requiring flexibility, the master's in marketing online requires 36 semester credits, and allows learners to finish courses at their own pace. The program begins with four core courses, followed by seven electives in marketing and a capstone project in marketing decision-making. UT Dallas offers several specialty tracks for the MS in marketing, though students must attend some courses onsite to complete any of these tracks.

Residents of Texas and Oklahoma receive in-state tuition rates. Applicants can also get GMAT and GRE requirements waived.



8. Thomas Edison State University

A public school located in New Jersey, Thomas Edison State University provides flexible learning options, including online courses, friendly credit transfer standards, and prior learning assessments. In 2015, the school formally changed from a college to university, signifying its growth and commitment to educating a wider range of students.

TESU's online MBA with a concentration in marketing provides learners with a fast, flexible way to earn a graduate degree in marketing. This 100% online degree takes just 15 months to complete, due in part to the university's accelerated eight-week courses. TESU also utlizes six terms per year, and new students begin courses at three different start dates.

All MBA in marketing students pay a flat per-credit tuition rate, meaning part-time learners do not pay a higher total cost. Alternatively, learners can opt to choose a flat-rate tuition, with New Jersey residents receiving a tuition discount.



9. Missouri State University – Springfield

Part of the extensive Missouri State University system, Missouri State University – Springfield ranks among the largest schools in the state. Outside of the three campuses in Missouri and an extension in Dallan, China, MSU also teaches students through its online outreach program.

Roughly one-quarter of the students in MSU's MBA program choose to study online, with most online students continuing to work. Those interested in marketing complete an MBA with a graduate certificate in marketing, a 33-credit program that takes most students two years to complete. The certificate in marketing consists of three courses that count toward the 33 required credits. Learners can substitute a required seminar and elective course with a six-credit research project, allowing students to demonstrate their skills for potential employers. All online students receive in-state tuition regardless of residency.



10. Averett University – Non-Traditional Programs

Created to help busy learners advance their careers, Averett University focuses on graduate and professional studies. The school embraces nontraditional education, letting students study online or at multiple locations in Virginia, and utilizing accelerated courses for every program.

Averett's online MBA with a concentration in marketing aims to help current business professionals learn new skills to move up within their organization. The MBA requires 40 credits, with nine credits coming from the marketing concentration. Averett also uses innovative six-week courses for the MBA program, giving learners plenty of flexibility. While the program best fits current professionals, Averett accepts students without any relevant work experience.

To keep students on track, Averett creates groups of 3-5 students who support each other throughout their studies. The university charges a flat per-credit tuition rate for all online MBA students.



11. Bellevue University

Founded in 1966, Bellevue University specializes in offering an affordable, flexible education. BU works to prepare graduates for future careers through its Real Mastery approach, an innovative educational technique that emphasizes real-world skills and situations.

Available either online or onsite in Bellevue, Nebraska, the 36-credit master of science in strategic marketing looks at the increasingly online and global nature of marketing. Learners complete courses including strategic internet marketing, marketing analytics, and social media marketing campaigns. BU does not set test score requirements for applicants, though they must demonstrate a minimum 2.5 GPA on their bachelor's degree.

The MS in strategic marketing uses a cohort format, and students only complete one course at a time. This helps individuals form close connections with other learners, growing the size of their network upon graduating. BU charges the same per-credit tuition rate to all online marketing students.



12. University of South Florida – St Petersburg

A public research institution based in Tampa Bay, the University of South Florida educates over 48,000 students, nearly one-quarter of whom are graduate-level learners. Despite its founding in 1956, USF often meets the quality of older, more-established institutions and continues to gain prominence.

Learners pursuing an MBA at USF can select a marketing strategy focus track, an emphasis that replaces 15 required elective credits. Aside from the marketing courses, learners must complete 16 credits in business foundation and 18 advanced business courses. While students can complete some of the courses in this program online, USF requires learners to attend some courses onsite at the Tampa or Sarasota-Manatee campuses.

USF sets strict admission standards, requiring applications to submit GMAT or GRE test scores, three letters of reference, a professional resume, and an undergraduate transcript. Applicants with three years of work experience, a minimum 3.5 cumulative undergraduate GPA, or a professional certification can waive GMAT and GRE requirements. USF charges both in-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates.



13. University of Houston – Victoria

Established in 1973, the University of Houston – Victoria offers courses both on campus and online. Many of UHV's students choose to study online to take advantage of the university's low tuition rates without needing to relocate to the Houston area.

With five start dates throughout the year and 36 credit hours to complete, learners finish the online Global MBA with a concentration in marketing in as little as 16 months. Students in the program only take two marketing elective courses: marketing research and a business marketing seminar. The seminar allows students to gain practical experience while demonstrating their marketing skills. All 12 courses in the program utilize an accelerated eight-week format.

To help students budget for their education, UHV charges the same flat tuition rate for the entire program regardless of residency.



14. Fort Hays State University

Located in Hays, Kansas, Fort Hays State University serves as a leader in Midwestern higher education, enrolling nearly 16,000 students. Fewer than 5,000 students attend courses onsite in Hays, while nearly 7,000 learners choose to study through the university's online program.

FHSU's online MBA with a concentration in digital marketing builds off the MBA's required curriculum and requires students to complete three digital marketing elective courses. Course options include strategic electronic marketing, social media marketing, and integrated marketing communications. Learners must also complete four foundation courses and nine core and lab courses.

The university's alumni and professional network connect graduates with employers in and around Kansas. All online students pay the low online tuition rate, regardless of their residency. FHSU accepts both part- and full-time students, and applicants without a background in business can complete introductory courses to gain admission.



15. University of Wisconsin – Whitewater

Founded in 1868, the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater makes up part of the extensive University of Wisconsin system, a regional leader in education. While the university primarily serves undergraduate students, graduate students benefit from UW-Whitewater's flexible online programs.

UW-Whitewater's online MBA with a concentration in marketing lets learners earn their degree 100% online. The program consists of 36 semester credits, 24 of which fall under business core and nine under the marketing emphasis. Students also select one elective MBA course. While the MBA leads to great job outcomes, marketing specialists enjoy a 100% job placement rate after graduation.

UW-Whitewater charges the same per-credit tuition rate to all students regardless of state residency. The university requires GMAT and GRE scores from applicants, though many applicants meet requirements that waive test score requirements.



16. Northwest Missouri State University

Originally a normal school that educated teachers, Northwest Missouri State University now offers over 160 programs, many of which students complete entirely online. The university created one of the nation's first computer programs in 1987, a testament to Northwest's commitment to the digital space.

The online MBA in marketing degree teaches students to adapt to constant changes in the global marketing world. This 30-credit program takes as few as 12 months to complete, though most students finish the program in 18 months. Learners choose from multiple start dates throughout the year and complete courses entirely online. Northwest charges either a per-credit tuition rate or a full-program tuition rate. Students select whichever option best fits their personal situation.

Northwest created the online MBA in marketing for current business professionals with at least three years of business experience, though applicants with high enough GMAT or GRE scores can waive the work experience requirement.



17. The University of Texas at Tyler

Part of the University of Texas System, the University of Texas at Tyler, teaches more than 10,000 students at its campuses in Tyler, Palestine, Longview, Houston, and online.

UT Tyler's 36-credit MBA with a concentration in marketing takes a unique approach by emphasizing specific sectors, like healthcare marketing and B2B, helping push learners toward specific career outcomes. The program is designed to help current professionals in the healthcare, financial services, telecommunications, travel, and hospitality industries advance their careers. Because UT Tyler uses accelerated seven-week courses, learners can complete the 12-course MBA in as little as 12 months.

The MBA in marketing uses multiple start dates, letting individuals apply for the program just weeks before taking courses. UT Tyler charges the same per-credit tuition rate to all students.



18. University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh

With multiple campuses across Oshkosh and online, the University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh connects thousands of students with local internships and career opportunities. While UW Oshkosh charges a per-credit tuition rate for all online MBA in marketing students, the majority of learners also secure financial aid.

Current business professionals enroll in the MBA-Professional program and select an emphasis in marketing. This 36-credit program utilizes 7- and 14-week courses, available online and hybrid formats. Classes in the program average just 15 students, and most learners choose to study part time.

The MBA in marketing requires at least two years of professional experience and GMAT/GRE scores, though applicants who pass an entrance exam can waive the test score requirement. Learners can also earn a data analytics certificate while completing the MBA in marketing.



19. Florida Institute of Technology – Online

Located in Melbourne, Florida, Florida Institute of Technology produces graduates who become leaders in an array of fields, including business and management. Many of Florida Tech's programs are offered online, helping busy workers advance their education and careers.

Florida Tech's MBA in marketing is 100% online and helps current marketing professionals advance their careers. The program mixes business core and marketing courses, covering topics like consumer behavior, market research, and product management. Learners complete 36 credits to finish the MBA, culminating with a three-credit capstone course.

As a private institution, Florida Tech charges a flat per-credit tuition rate to all students, making budgeting for the MBA in marketing easy. Florida Tech does not require GRE or GMAT test scores and waives all application fees. Students can also transfer in previous graduate-level credits, cutting the time and cost of the program.



20. University of North Texas

The University of North Texas, one of the largest universities in the nation, offers over 200 programs and teaches over 38,000 learners at multiple campuses. Despite the university's large size, UNT works to help its community, understanding that many of its students call the region home.

UNT's innovative marketing MBA requires 12 courses, or 36 credits. Students can choose an accelerated option that requires the same number of credits. Students complete eight-week courses during the fall and spring semesters and five-week courses during the summer. This option also sets six different start dates for courses throughout the year.

The marketing MBA's curriculum fits the needs of both current business professionals and those looking to break into business. UNT allows students to select either part- or full-time study. Texas residents receive a low in-state tuition rate.



21. Idaho State University

Based in Pocatello, Idaho State University offers over 250 programs to learners at an affordable rate. Nearly half of ISU's students choose to study part time. The online MBA with a concentration in marketing has both a part- and full-time option.

Students can complete the MBA entirely online in just one year, though many students prefer the flexibility of part-time study. The program begins with foundational core classes covering every niche field of business. Next, students complete advanced businesses courses. Finally, learners take three marketing courses to complete the emphasis.

ISU charges all online students the in-state tuition rate. MBA learners can also apply for an assistantship program which covers the cost of the entire MBA and provides a stipend. Through this route, students commit 20 hours each week to the assistantship. Of course, the assistantship requires learners to commute to campus in Pocatello.



22. North Carolina State University

A public land-grant institution created to teach agriculture and engineering, North Carolina State University leads in many fields, including research and business. Graduates take advantage of NC State's location in Raleigh, using the school's network to find and secure jobs.

NC State's MBA with an emphasis in marketing requires 40 credits, nine of which must be in marketing. Technically, learners who complete the program online cannot choose an emphasis; however, NC State encourages students to select marketing courses as electives, essentially satisfying all on-campus emphasis requirements. Students complete courses asynchronously and take anywhere from 21 months to six years to complete the MBA. Aside from two, three-day residencies in Raleigh, learners finish the entire program online.

Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited school and demonstrate two years of full-time work experience. NC State extends a low in-state tuition rate to all North Carolina residents.



23. National University

Founded in 1971 by a retired U.S. Navy Captain, National University works to extend an accessible and affordable college education to all students. It focuses on active military members and distance learners. NU uses unique four-week courses to help students balance busy lives and their college education.

Available entirely online, the MBA with a specialization in marketing takes as few as 12 months to complete. Learners can choose to take either one course per month or take three courses over a three-month period. The program requires 14 courses, including four courses for the marketing specialization and one capstone course. The marketing specialization consists of courses in consumer behavior, global marketing, market research, and strategic marketing simulation.

NU accepts transfer credits worth up to three courses. The university uses year-round enrollment, so students can begin any month. All students pay the same flat-rate course fee.



24. Bryan College

Created to provide a Christian-minded education to men and women, Bryan College aims to teach from a Christian worldview without pushing religious values onto its students. Many of Bryan College's nearly 1,500 learners study at the campus in Dayton, Tennessee, though others choose to enroll online.

The online MBA in marketing provides learners with flexibility, using an entirely online format and accelerated eight-week courses. Bryan College requires at least 36 credits to finish the degree, and many full-time students graduate in as few as 14 months. Topics covered in the program include advertising, market research, and real-world application of marketing techniques. The college uses five start dates throughout the year, offering new students plenty of opportunities to begin the program.

Bryan College uses a flat per-credit tuition rate for the online MBA program, giving students an estimate of the total program cost. Learners who study part time do not pay higher tuition fees than full-time learners.



25. West Texas A&M

Located in the small city of Canyon, West Texas A&M University opened in 1910 as a normal school to educate teachers. Today, the university educates over 10,000 students, nearly matching the population of Canyon. Those unable to commute to WTAMU enroll in one of the school's online programs.

The online MBA in marketing emphasizes work-life balance, using an asynchronous format for all courses in the program. Best for full-time employees looking to study part time, the MBA in marketing takes most students two years to complete. WTAMU uses five semesters each year, and students can complete as many courses as they want. To complete the degree with a marketing specialization, learners must complete 37-46 credits, with some applicants requiring prerequisite foundational courses.

WTAMU extends an in-state state tuition rate to Texas residents and those living in border counties. Other online students can secure various forms of financial aid offered through the College of Business.