College and University Marketing Programs Key Terms

Get acquainted with college and university marketing programs key terms

By Shannon Tani

If you want to study marketing in a college or university program, you need to understand the terms that relate to the programs. For example, you'll want to decide whether you want to aim for an Associate's Degree, a Bachelor's Degree or a Master of Business Administration. There are other certifications available too, which can add to your credibility in the business world. Marketing is a highly competitive field and the more education you have, the further you can advance your career. Start by learning some of these terms.

Associate's Degree in Marketing

An Associate's Degree in Marketing is a two-year program that teaches you the basics of how markets work and how to successfully use this knowledge to increase sales. This can help you to break into the field of marketing, but there may be many others with a higher degree. Use this as a stepping stone in your career.
Try: The Degree Directory explains more about what you'll learn while earning an Associate's Degree in Marketing.

Bachelor's Degree in Marketing

A Bachelor's Degree in Marketing is a traditional four-year degree. You'll have to take a broad range of courses in addition to your core marketing classes. For many top companies, this is the minimum requirement for an entry level position in marketing.
Try: Take a look at the Bachelor's Degree in Marketing offered by Ferris State University.

Master of Business Administration in Marketing

A Master of Business Administration, or MBA, in Marketing involves study past a four-year degree. This is an excellent choice if you wish to attain top level positions.
Try: Learn more about a Marketing MBA from MBASchools.com.

Professional Certified Marketer

The Professional Certified Marketer Certification is a designation that is offered by the American Management Association. Aim to get this with your degree for added credibility.
Try: Learn about the Professional Certified Marketer program through Marketing Power.

Degree mills

Many people are looking to get their degrees through distance learning. This may be because they don't have a program near them or they aren't available during traditional school hours. However, there are many online "colleges" that are not accredited. These are called degree mills, because you are simply paying for a degree, rather than a real education. Degree mills often target those looking for a marketing degree because it is a popular major.
Try: Learn how to differentiate the good from the bad through About Online Degrees.

U.S. News and World Reports college ranking

Every year, U.S. News and World Reports magazine ranks the nation's colleges to determine which schools are the best. Students that want to work for the best marketing companies should start by attending the best marketing schools.
Try: Keep an eye on the U.S. News and World Reports college rankings from their website.