Top 25 PhD in Marketing Online Programs 2024

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Online PhD Marketing Programs

In this ranking, we profile the top 25 PhD in marketing programs delivered via distance education.

While online PhD programs are limited, few accredited PhD marketing degrees are offered online from ranked colleges and universities. One alternative to the PhD in marketing online program is the DBA in marketing. We researched a number of schools and programs to find the 25 best PhD in marketing or DBA in marketing online degrees. Below is our ranking methodology.

Top 25 Doctorate Marketing Online Ranking Methodology

Featured Programs

We looked at 48 colleges and universities listed by the Center for Educational Statistics (NCES) College Navigator that offered PhD in marketing and Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) marketing online degree programs. We narrowed our original pool of schools to the 25 top PhD marketing programs by applying the following criteria: accreditation by a reputable governing body, the online pathway for DBA marketing programs or PhD in marketing programs, and institution rankings with at least one major publication like U.S. News. We then listed the top 25 PhD in marketing programs online according to raw affordability.

Below are the results of our top 25 PhD in marketing and DBA marketing degree programs available online.

#25 – Drexel University

Online executive dba, philadelphia, pennsylvania.

Drexel University - logo

The Executive Doctor of Business Administration degree program at Drexel University is an intensive exploration of all aspects of business and designed for those interested in a PhD marketing or closely related discipline. Offered through Drexel’s LeBow College of Business and taught by business professors, the practical program is one of only 20 percent accredited by AACSB International. Business administration courses are online and include topics like analyzing quantitative data, applied organizational theory, challenges of a data driven economy, corporate growth and risk strategies, and foundations of research in behavioral science. The typical DBA student at Drexel finishes the online doctorate in approximately 2.5 to 3 years, and a comprehensive exam may be required. Drexel ranks with U.S. News & World Report as the 97th best national university and all online graduate business programs rank within the top 50 programs.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $36,234

#24 – University of Dallas

Online doctor of business administration (dba), irving, texas.

University of Dallas- logo

The University of Dallas offers an alternative pathway to a PhD program in marketing for online students. The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program is rigorous research-based program designed for working business professionals. The online DBA at University of Dallas consistently ranks with major publications and offers the highly coveted AACSB International accreditation. Comprised of a three-year, 61-credit course of study, students receive blended classroom learning with online instruction. Courses at UD cover topics like applied marketing research, applied statistics analysis, becoming an applied researcher, designing applied research, qualitative methods for diagnosis and assessment, and strategic perspectives. The institution ranks with U.S. News as the 7th best regional university in the West and 5th best value school.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $33,750

#23 – California Southern University

Online dba in international business, irvine, california.

California Southern University - logo

California Southern University offers a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) marketing degree program designed for those interested in a PhD program in marketing. Through the international business concentration, several marketing courses offer exposure to global marketing practices. Also, while online students may elect to earn a concentration in international business, they may create their own degree by taking various courses that appeal to interest and meet career goals. This customized design in known at the Cal Southern designer degree. Business administration courses appealing to marketing professionals include brand management; consumer behavior, theory, and analysis; and project management strategic design. A comprehensive exam may be required. The program requires the completion of 60 credits and takes four years (full-time status) to complete.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $32,700

#22 – Keiser University

Doctorate marketing online, fort lauderdale, florida.

Keiser University - logo

Whether you are seeking a PhD marketing online program or online Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), Keiser University has options for business professionals serious about the next step in their career. The online DBA at Keiser is offered through the online graduate campus. Designed for career professionals, classes are offered entirely online and in a flexible and convenient format. Three areas of specialization allow PhD students pursuing marketing degrees to develop knowledge in disciplines like global business, management, and marketing. The online DBA with a marketing emphasis covers a number of topics that appeal to marketing professionals, including digital marketing, market research, brand management, and consumer research. Courses combine hands-on problem-solving with applied and theoretical research, offering practical study that can be used in various areas of business and marketing. Keiser ranks with U.S. News & World Report as the 272nd best national university.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $29,632

#21 – Alliant International University

San diego, california.

Alliant International - logo

Alliant International University offers a DBA in marketing for those interested in PhD marketing online programs. By choosing the marketing doctorate online concentration, students earn a DBA with specialized study in marketing. Online students pursuing PhD programs in marketing take classes that cover topics such as consumer research, human behavior, managing growing organizations, organizational learning and adaptation, political strategy, and social influencing. The program has received accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). In addition to accreditation, Alliant is recognized by U.S. News as a top national university. Alliant earns a top spot on our list of online PhD in marketing programs for its affordability and marketing specialization options.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $19,484

#20 – Northcentral University

Northcentral University - logo

At Northcentral University, there are options for earning an online doctoral degree in marketing. This degree is similar to the PhD program in marketing in that it prepares business leaders and marketing experts through market research, application, and theoretical practices. A total of 48 credit hours and 16 courses are necessary to satisfy the degree requirements. PhD students finish their degree, on average, in 39 months. Upon graduation, NCU marketing doctorate online candidates secure positions in academia, advertising, consulting, leadership, and management. Aside from being accredited, Northcentral University ranks with top publications like U.S. News. In fact, the online MBA and other graduate online business programs rank among the top 200 and top 300 programs in the nation.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $16,881

#19 – Temple University

In terms of doctoral programs, Temple University offers an online DBA marketing degree program designed for executive-level professionals through the Fox School of Business. The business administration program uses applied theory and data-driven market research to educate graduate students on the pathway to a doctoral degree in business. For those online students interested in marketing, classes cover a number of related topics. In fact, courses include innovation and entrepreneurship in the new economy, integrative perspectives on business knowledge, navigating the global marketplace, digital marketing, and problem solving using qualitative research methods. While business courses are online, six on-site weekend residences per year occur during the first two years. In addition to quality education, Temple offers prestigious rankings from U.S. News. Rankings include #104 in best national universities and #99 in best value schools.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $17,388

#18 – George Fox University

Doctorate degree in marketing online, newberg, oregon.

George Fox University - logo

George Fox University offers doctorate in marketing degree programs designed to prepare students for marketing PhD jobs following graduation. Through an online, hybrid format, students earn their doctoral in business degree in four years by taking three years of coursework and one year to work on their dissertation. The ACBSP-accredited program is one of the few programs available to offer a concentration in marketing. Concentration courses cover topics such as advanced topics in digital marketing, consumer behavior, leadership skills, and research design in marketing. To be admitted to the DBA in marketing program at George Fox, applicants must hold a bachelor’s and master’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Also, only full-time faculty appointed students or those with five years of professional experience may qualify for admission. Due to its high-quality degree programs, George Fox ranks #246 in best national universities by U.S. News.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $14,158

#17 – California Baptist University

Riverside, california.

California Baptist University - logo

Individuals seeking online DBA degree programs in marketing will find options available at California Baptist University. The 50-credit hour business administration degree offers eight-week online courses, a cohort model, and dissertation process. Most students enrolled in PhD programs like this one complete their doctoral degree in just three years, though additional time is allowed. For those interested in marketing, DBA coursework covers a number of related topics. Some of the courses offered include applying economic theory to business, international business in global markets, management of organizations, market research, content marketing, and strategic marketing. According to U.S. News, California Baptist University ranks #43 in best regional universities in the West.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $13,590

#16 – Johnson & Wales University

Providence, rhode island.

Johnson and Wales University - logo

When seeking future marketing PhD jobs, an online DBA from Johnson & Wales University will help, especially if you want a shorter pathway to a doctoral degree. This three-year DBA program offers flexible and convenient online courses, no residency requirements, and a quick completion time. Each course runs eight weeks in length, giving students an ability to move through classes quickly. Also, students focus on one course at a time, which adds to the convenient format. Courses cover topics like business analytics and intelligence, contemporary issues in finance and accounting, innovation and change, organizational behavior, organizational strategy and design, and problems and methods in marketing management. Johnson & Wales University ranks with U.S. News as the 80th best regional university in the North and earns a spot on our list of affordable online DBA marketing programs.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $14,706

#15 – Baker College

Flint, michigan.

Baker College- logo

One of the best online schools, Baker College offers options for individuals seeking PhD marketing online programs. The online DBA provides online classes led by Baker instructors with years of experience in the business world. Doctoral students gain valuable experience of their own through a combination of classes, professional residencies, research papers, and seminars. A total of 60 credits is required to earn the DBA degree. Courses cover topics from business management to marketing. For example, course topics include corporate and personal ethics, doctoral writing and literature review, introduction to research methods and designs, knowledge management and information systems, and quality improvement and organizational change. Baker College, recognized by U.S. News, ranks among the top regional universities in the Midwest.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $12,510

#14 – Thomas Edison State University

Trenton, new jersey.

Thomas Edison State University - logo

In terms of doctoral training programs, Thomas Edison State University offers an online DBA in marketing degree program designed for individuals interested in personalized instructional delivery. The adult-centric cohort design offers fully online instruction and one-on-one mentorship from leaders at the university. While there is no specific marketing emphasis, marketing students interested in this discipline may elect the organizational leadership or general management concentrations, which feature marketing coursework. Examples of courses often taken in the online DBA program at Thomas Edison State include critical thought and informed action – models of decision making and organization achievement, seminar in marketing and entrepreneurship, seminar in strategic planning and organizational effectiveness, and the global business context – trends, issues, and markets. One of the leading online colleges, Thomas Edison ranks with major publications like U.S. News among the top regional universities in the North.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $12,024

#13 – University of Missouri

Saint louis, missouri.

University of Missouri - logo

An online DBA can offer students similar skills and experience that a PhD marketing online program offers. In fact, the online DBA at University of Missouri, allows students to earn a doctoral degree with a research concentration in all areas of business administration, such as marketing. This three-year, cohort-based program offers flexible distance education courses, with limited monthly visits to campus. Courses for marketing students cover topics like contemporary marketing intelligence and decision making, strategic business analysis, sustaining and disruptive information technologies, the role of accounting information in firms and markets, and internet marketing. University of Missouri holds regional accreditation. Rankings from U.S. News include #281 in best national universities and #140 in top public schools.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $12,528

#12 – Florida International University

Miami, florida.

Florida International University- logo

Florida International University’s online DBA is offered as a track under the online PhD marketing degree. Designed for senior-level professionals, the online DBA consists of 72 credits, face-to-face and online classes, and a three-year curriculum format. Courses cover a number of business and marketing concepts, such as analysis of corporate policy, marketing and behavioral theory, qualitative and quantitative research methods, brand management and philosophy and process of applied business research. In addition to online coursework and a research project, three-day and two-day residencies take place periodically. FIU holds regional accreditation and ranks with major publications like U.S. News. In fact, these rankings include #218 in best national universities and #63 in most innovative schools.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $8,912

#11 – Bellevue University

Bellevue, nebraska.

Bellevue University - logo

Bellevue University’s online DBA is an alternative pathway to PhD marketing online degrees. With no dissertation requirement and online courses, the online DBA is a convenience doctoral degree for working professionals. Students may earn their doctoral degree in just three years and entirely online. Courses cover finance, business, management, and marketing topics. In fact, some of the courses include business and society, finance for business leaders, managing the challenges of organization development and change, strategic marketing decisions, content marketing, and sustainable business development. Bellevue is a regionally ranked institution. In fact, U.S. News ranks Bellevue as a top regional university in the Midwest.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $10,980

#10 – Grand Canyon University

Doctorate degree marketing online, phoenix, arizona.

Grand Canyon University - logo

In terms of doctoral programs, Grand Canyon University offers an alternative path to the PhD marketing degree. The online DBA in marketing allows doctoral students to specialize their studies in consumer behavior, segments, and trends through distance education courses and two or three five-day residency experiences. Program courses cover topics such as analysis of existing research, digital technology and consumer behavior, emerging issues in financial management, the history and philosophy of marketing, and the sustainable future. A total of sixty credits are required, along with a dissertation, to satisfy degree stipulations. GCU ranks with major publications like U.S. News. In fact, the most recent rankings for GCU include #293-#381 in best national universities and #42 in top performers on social mobility.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $10,621

#9 – Concordia University

River forest, illinois.

The logo for Concordia University which placed 9th for top online phd in marketing

The Concordia University online DBA marketing degree is a flexible, online program that can be specialized by taking marketing and human behavior courses. Sixty credits and three years of study earn the online DBA at Concordia. Courses cover a number of advanced business and marketing topics. These topics include business analytics and financial decision making, foundations of the doctoral experience, global business operations, global concepts in strategic marketing, strategy formation and innovation, and the global leader – social responsibility and ethical decision making. Individuals interested in marketing may earn a marketing innovations specialization by taking the following courses: advanced research, consumer global and multicultural marketing, and integrating distribution channels and customers. Concordia University ranks #72 in best regional universities in the Midwest and #35 in best value schools.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $9,090

#8 – Wilmington University

New castle, delaware.

Wilmington University - Top 30 PhD

As one of the top online schools in the nation, Wilmington University offers an online DBA for individuals hoping to land marketing PhD jobs in the future. The program is designed to enhance the skills, knowledge, and competencies of doctoral candidates, making them equipped to make significant contributions to any organization. Like many of the doctoral programs in this ranking, the online DBA at Wilmington is IACBE-accredited, 100% online, and flexibly designed to fit busy work schedules. Courses cover topics in business, marketing, and management. Some course topics marketing students will likely see within the program include advanced marketing management, ethics in business and management, executive decision-making, global management models, managing innovation and change, and statistics for research. U.S. News ranks Wilmington as a top national university.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $9,000

#7 – University of Maryland

Adelphi, maryland.

University of Maryland - logo

If you are seeking marketing PhD jobs, doctoral training programs such as the one offered at University of Maryland, stands out. This 48-credit online DBA program covers an array of topics applicable to marketing, management, and business careers. For example, course requirements include data analytics in practice, designing evidence-based management solutions, evidence-based research methods, interpreting and translating management theory in practice, and research as a tool for management decision making. According to the program website, all courses for marketing students are online and are taught by University of Maryland’s experienced faculty. In addition to accreditation to award online doctoral programs, the university is ranked by major publications like U.S. News & World Report. In fact, University of Maryland ranks among the top regional universities in the North and #20 in most innovative schools.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $9,072

#6 – Saint Leo University

Online doctor of business administration, saint leo, florida.

Saint Leo University - logo

To secure marketing PhD jobs, one must earn either a PhD in marketing or DBA. Saint Leo University offers one of the best online DBA programs with courses in marketing and consumer behavior. The program is ideal for individuals pursuing careers as college professors, consultants, executive managers, or marketing managers. According to the program website, courses may be completed online and are taught by Saint Leo’s esteemed marketing professors. Course topics include analytics for decision making, global leadership and ethics, global perspectives in human resource, management learning seminar, and strategic management in global organizations. To be admitted to the program, applicants must hold a master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution with a 3.25 GPA. Also, Saint Leo ranks with U.S. News as the 25th best regional university in the South and 5th best value school.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $15,218

#5 – Liberty University

Online marketing doctorate, lynchburg, virginia.

Liberty University - logo

Liberty University offers a 60-credit alternative option to the PhD marketing degree. Eight-week courses and 100 percent online instruction make the online DBA in marketing one of the most convenient doctoral programs for working students. Since Liberty is a Christian college, all courses within the degree are taught from a biblical worldview. Some of the required courses for PhD students cover key concepts in marketing promotions, marketing research, strategic marketing management, and supply chain management. The average completion time for the online DBA with a marketing specialization is three years. U.S. News ranks Liberty among the top national universities. In fact, Liberty ranks #293-#381 in best national universities. Also, the online graduate business programs, including the DBA in marketing, ranks #98 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $7,847

#4 – Kennesaw State University

Online phd in business administration, kennesaw, georgia.

Kennesaw State University - logo

Kennesaw State University’s PhD in business administration is a non-traditional doctoral degree accredited by the AACSB. PhD students interested in pursuing an academic concentration have four choices: accounting, information systems, management, and marketing. During the first two years of the program, students complete cohort-based and discipline-specific coursework consisting of 36 credits. While some business administration courses are online, the degree is considered a hybrid program, with some course requirements met on campus. Kennesaw State ranks with major publications like U.S. News. In fact, the most recent publication of Best Colleges ranks the school #293-#381 in best national universities and #72 in most innovative schools.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $5,238

#3 – Westcliff University

Westcliff University- logo

Westcliff University offers one of the most affordable alternatives on our list to the PhD marketing online degree program. Like other online DBA programs, the Westcliff online DBA covers coursework found in most PhD in business programs and offers specialty classes in areas like management and marketing. Some of the program’s courses cover topics like corporate social responsibility, creative solutions leadership, finance for managers, global business initiatives, marketing strategy and consumer behavior, and strategic planning and implementation. Near the end of the program, students complete a final project and dissertation. Westcliff earns a spot on our list due to its affordable graduate tuition. Also, the school is accredited by WASC and DEAC, and currently a candidate for global accreditation by ACBSP.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $13,050

#2 – California Miramar University

California Miramar University - logo

California Miramar University’s online DBA offers four areas of specialization, including marketing. The marketing concentration is designed to focus on marketing management and research that moves beyond the fundamentals and core courses typically found in MBA programs. In fact, the marketing specialization covers advanced topics designed to prepare students for careers as marketing leaders. These courses include advanced international marketing, advanced marketing research, business administration career practical training, marketing communications, pricing theory and practice, and strategic marketing. Courses are delivered online and taught by California Miramar’s experienced faculty. This school lands a top spot on our list due to its marketing specialization and highly affordable graduate tuition.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $7,020

#1 – Trident University International

Cypress, california.

Trident University International - logo

Trident University International offers an online DBA for those seeking an alternative to the PhD marketing online degree. The online DBA is offered 100% online and represents the highest level of achievement for business professionals. Admission to the online DBA at Trident requires an earned MBA or master’s degree in business administration and a completed online application. Once accepted, students begin taking online courses. You will take 36-48 semester credits of core courses. If you have transfer credit, Trident accepts up to 12 semester credits. Some of the required courses cover topics like applied statistics for research in business and management, and technology and business process improvement. Trident ranks with major publications like U.S. News as a top national university and is the #1 most affordable online DBA in marketing program on our list.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $6,120

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can i do with a phd in marketing degree.

Jut like a traditional marketing PhD, by earning a PhD marketing online degree, you will improve your chances of finding suitable employment that pays well and affords you the kind of lifestyle you seek. What can you do with an online PhD in marketing degree? We’ve listed a few options for marketing careers to help you determine jobs that align with your education.

Marketing manager : The role of the marketing manager is to develop, manage, and oversee marketing and/or public relations campaigns for organizations. They often oversee teams responsible for such campaigns. Also, marketing managers develop teams based on consumer research to target key demographics. Nearly all marketing manager positions require postgraduate study. In fact, many large organizations require a minimum master’s degree in marketing, but prefer individuals with a marketing PhD such as the online doctorate in marketing.

Marketing vice president or president : Working at an even higher level than the marketing manager, the marketing president or vice president oversees teams of marketing managers. Also known as chief marketing officers, marketing presidents are executives within organizations. They make informed decisions based on the information and research received from their marketing management team, including marketing cost and benefits. To secure one of these executive-level positions, you will need considerable education, such as a PhD in marketing. Also, valuable work experience will set you apart from your competitors.

Postsecondary professor or instructor : With a PhD in marketing or closely related doctoral degree, you may be qualified to work as a postsecondary educator, such as an instructor or professor. With a PhD or DBA, you are acknowledged as an expert in the marketing field.

How long does it take to earn a PhD in marketing or online doctorate in marketing online degree?

Whether you’re earning a marketing PhD or DBA online degree, credit requirements are similar. In fact, most online PhD or DBA programs in marketing require 60 total credits. Some DBA online programs require less, but the average total number of credits required for a doctorate is sixty credits.

Several factors impact completion time. The first factor explored is enrollment status. What is enrollment status? Full-time or part-time status. When enrolled full-time, you will generally have a heavier course load than your part-time colleagues. Full-time students take two and three classes each term, and by doing so, graduate sooner than individuals enrolled part-time. Full-time status allows you to complete your degree at a quicker pace by taking more classes. But with full-time enrollment comes a heavier schedule. Flexible part-time programs are ideal for individuals working full-time and balancing outside responsibilities, such as family. However, full-time students take three years to complete their doctorate degree, while part-time students may take up to five years for the same degree.

The next factor impacting completion time is the dissertation requirement. If your program requires a dissertation or other type of research project, then plan on taking additional time to earn your online PhD in marketing degree. The average completion time for a PhD in marketing online degree with a dissertation requirement is four to six years.

What types of courses are required in marketing PhD programs?

Online coursework for a marketing PhD or for DBA online programs varies. Some programs may require heavy academic research-oriented classes, while others offer specializations that allow students to tailor their degree to fit with personal interests or align with career goals. However, many of the programs on our list require courses that cover key concepts and similar topics.

Example courses seen in PhD and DBA in marketing programs include business courses such as advanced business research methods, consumer behavior theory and practice, and marketing strategies and innovation in globally diverse markets. Programs that offer specializations in different types of marketing, such as international marketing or market research, may require additional courses relating to the area of focus. Also, if the program requires a dissertation or other academic research project, courses in research methods and statistical analysis will be required.

Seminars are a component of most PhD in marketing and online DBA in marketing programs. Seminars cover special topics in marketing. Sample courses include marketing research and strategy and innovation seminars.

Most of the programs on our list require the completion of 60 credit hours. Classes are delivered online, though some of the programs on our list offer a mix of online and on-campus courses. Overall, you will find similar courses offered from the programs on our list.

What is the job outlook for individuals with a PhD in marketing or doctorate in marketing online degree?

The United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports a favorable job outlook for advertising, marketing, and promotions managers. In fact, a ten-percent projected growth rate is expected through 2030, which is faster than the average for all other occupations.

A favorable job outlook for individuals with a PhD in marketing degree is anticipated across the industry. As organizations seek to expand their share of the market, marketing managers are needed to lead promotional campaigns and coordinate advertising efforts. Most organizations are expected to grow their marketing efforts, especially online businesses. However, a decline in the newspaper publishing industry could impact growth. The newspaper industry employs many managers who specialize in marketing. These managers could face a decline rather than growth over the next decade.

Internet advertising campaigns will likely increase, and as a result, prompt organizations to hire managers. Organizations want to reach a wider audience and doing so means employing advertising and promotion experts. Individuals with advanced degrees, such as an PhD in marketing or DBA in marketing online will become valuable assets to organizations looking to improve their presence. By earning a PhD in marketing, you will set yourself apart from competitors. Also, by specializing your degree in areas of marketing, such as advertising or internet-based marketing, you should have even better job prospects.

How much money can I earn with a PhD in marketing?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for marketing managers, as of May 2021, was $133,380. BLS also reports the lowest ten percent of earners were paid $61,250, while the highest earning ten-percent of marketing managers made $208,000. Pay varies by industry. A careful look at industries reveals the following:

The top-paying industries for these types of managers, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, were professional, scientific, and technical services; management of companies and enterprises; finance and insurance; manufacturing; and wholesale trade. Marketing managers working in professional or technical services earned on average $155,470 per year. Those in the management of companies and enterprises earned $155,030. Those working in finance and insurance earned an average of $151,870. Marketing-specific managers in manufacturing earned an average annual wage of $136,150. Those in wholesale trade earned $132,450.

Most of these managers work full-time and many exceed the forty-hour work week. Overtime is especially common when organizational campaigns are in full force. The time leading up to the launch of a promotions or advertising campaign can require long hours that exceed standard work hours. But despite the long work hours, benefits and high wages keep employees happy. Earning a PhD in marketing will qualify you for high-paying manager jobs.

  • Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook Handbook
  • National Center for Education Statistics: College Navigator
  • U.S. News & World Report: Best Colleges

Related Resources

  • Doctorate Degree Online
  • PhD in Accounting Online
  • Highest Paying PhD
  • Cheapest Online Colleges
  • Cheapest Online PhD in Finance
  • Online PhD Programs in Management Information Systems

This concludes our list of the 25 PhD in marketing programs online.

The Best Online Doctorate in Marketing Programs

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Updated October 5, 2023

The Best Online Doctorate in Marketing Programs

thebestschools.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Are you ready to discover your college program?

Marketing continues to evolve with technology's influence on society. With corporations relying on consumer data to guide operational strategies, the need for employees with contemporary marketing skills grows more important each year.

Featured Online Schools

As a marketing student, you will plant yourself in a field that not only adapts to the consumer, but also plays an influential role in consumer expectations and perceived needs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, marketing research analyst positions are projected to grow 23% through 2026, leading to the emergence of more than 138,000 new jobs over the next decade. A doctorate in marketing online program can prepare you for a variety of interesting and financially rewarding careers in the field.

For career information, skip down:

  • What Else Can I Expect from an Online Doctorate in Marketing Program?
  • Accreditation for Online Doctorate in Marketing Degrees
  • Online Doctorate in Marketing Careers

Paying for Your Online Doctorate in Marketing

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. TheBestSchools.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.

#1 The Best Online Doctorate in Marketing Programs

Liberty University

  • Lynchburg, VA
  • Online + Campus

The doctor of business administration in marketing at Liberty University offers an online option for doctoral students. The private university offers flexible enrollment options for degree-seekers. Doctoral students participate in career counseling and benefit from research support.

Learners complete 60 credits of doctoral coursework. After passing comprehensive examinations, doctoral candidates complete an original dissertation that contributes to the field. With a marketing doctorate, graduates may work in academia, research positions, and leadership roles.

Online doctoral students at the accredited institution qualify for several forms of financial aid. Contact the marketing program to learn more about the enrollment process and start dates.

Liberty University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 78,511

Online Master's Programs: 67

Online Doctoral Programs: 9

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1

Graduate Tuition Rate: $7,980

Accepts Transfer Credits: Accepted

Back to School Rankings

What Else can I Expect from an Online Doctorate in Marketing Program?

Doctorate in marketing online programs provide in-depth examinations of numerous business topics, including finance allocation strategies, supply chain management, and marketing communication. The following curriculum offers an example of a typical DBA marketing online program. While degree content differs by school, students will likely complete some variation of the following courses.

Curriculum for an Online Doctorate in Marketing

  • Brand and Product Management: This course familiarizes students with strategies used to promote a product's image, including the development of positive consumer perceptions and packaging design. Students learn how to generate marketing plans that meet the needs of both the consumer and the corporation. This Ph.D. in marketing online course qualifies students for careers as marketing managers and chief brand officers.
  • Business Ethics: Often using case studies to drive points, this course prepares students for careers governed by ethical conduct. Course topics focus on contemporary ethical issues faced by businesses and stakeholders, including environmental protection, equitable treatment of employees, and fiscal transparency. Additionally, this course examines legal implications of business practices from a global perspective.
  • Consumer Behavior: Preparing students for careers as marketing research analysts, this course provides an overview of the theories that explain consumer behavior. Students learn how marketing strategies promote customer loyalty and satisfaction. This course emphasizes consumer behavior analysis and equips students with skills needed to develop and implement methods for gathering consumer data.
  • Research Methods: In this course, students acquire the skills needed to independently conduct research. In examining scholarly research projects and identifying appropriate research methodologies for data collection and analysis, this course prepares distance learners for careers as marketing consultants, college professors, and marketing research analysts.
  • Supply Chain Management: This course explores how corporations secure resources and produce goods. Students acquire knowledge of supply chain management strategies and cover topics in logistics, purchasing, and efficiency. Students gain an understanding of risk-sharing and supply and demand analysis. Sales managers and supply chain analysts rely on knowledge of supply chain strategies.

How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Doctorate in Marketing?

Comprised of approximately 60 credits, doctorate in marketing online programs vary slightly in length and structure. Students typically earn their degree in four or five years, with some programs allowing students up to seven years to complete their degree. Full-time students who follow a program's prescribed degree plan may earn their doctorate in as little as 39 months. Degrees with built-in specializations typically do not require additional coursework; however, if a student opts to pursue another concentration, the curriculum requirements may extend the length of time necessary to graduate.

Many graduate programs use a cohort model, while others may offer individualized plans of study. Cohort programs group newly admitted students together into a course plan that they follow until graduation. These programs selectively admit students one or two times each year. Individually paced programs tend to offer several start dates, and students take courses at their convenience. Both cohort and individually paced programs may feature eight-week or 16-week courses.

Accreditation for Online Marketing Doctorate Degrees

Schools acquire accreditation to provide quality assurance practices that reflect national standards both deparmentally and institutionally. Regional accreditation is the primary accrediting type sought by colleges in the United States. More than three quarters of universities maintain regional accreditation. Nationally accredited schools typically offer trade-based programs. Although frequently featuring lower tuition rates, programs offered by nationally accredited schools may not be recognized by regionally accredited institutions.

Accredited schools and programs must participate in peer reviews and self studies to continue receiving endorsements from their accreditors. The Distance Education Accrediting Commission provides quality control measures for online programs, and the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) is the accrediting body for business programs. Doctorate in marketing online programs accredited by the AACSB demonstrate national standards in areas, such as professional ethics training, curriculum with an international scope, and quality instruction.

In order to be considered an authoritative accreditor, accrediting agencies must gain recognition from the Department of Education (ED) and Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). The ED and CHEA require accrediting agencies to demonstrate the strategies in which they hold schools and programs accountable. Accredited entities must adhere to guidelines stipulated by their accreditors. Students starting their DBA in marketing online may review the ED and CHEA accreditation databases for a list of all accredited schools and programs in the country.

Employment Outlook for Doctorate in Marketing Graduates

Doctorate in marketing careers.

With a curriculum that includes advanced training in business strategies and research methods, a Ph.D. in marketing online program affords students numerous career opportunities. Graduates may pursue careers with nonprofit corporations, businesses, and in academia. Many graduates of DBA marketing online programs also lead flexible careers as consultants in a freelance capacity. Regardless of the occupational setting, these professionals possess traits that lead to success, including analytical and critical thinking skills, strong written and verbal abilities, and creativity.

  • Median Annual Salary: $63,230
  • Projected Growth Rate: 23%
  • Median Annual Salary: $129,380
  • Projected Growth Rate: 10%
  • Median Annual Salary: $104,700
  • Projected Growth Rate: 8%
  • Median Annual Salary: $121,060
  • Projected Growth Rate: 9%
  • Median Annual Salary: $76,000
  • Projected Growth Rate: 15%

Doctorate in Marketing Salary

Marketing Careers by Experience Students of doctorate in marketing online programs look forward to incomes as they gain professional experience. The table below depicts salary trends for five marketing careers, with data from Payscale. This illustrative comparison of entry level, mid-career, and advanced career employee salaries indicates increased annual earnings across the board with hikes up to 100%. For example, marketing directors with less than five years of experience earn a median annual income of $51,000, while those with 20 or more years of experience enjoy a median annual income exceeding $100,000. Earning a DBA marketing online positions students for leadership roles in the areas featured below.

Professional Organizations in Marketing

Professional organizations provide doctorate in marketing online students with a host of resources that are often free to members. Joining a professional organization, such as the American Marketing Association, allows students and entry level professionals to broaden their employment opportunities through online networking. Members receive access to global job listings and annual conferences at reduced rates. Most professional organizations feature continuing education programs that incorporate the latest marketing practices into their curriculum. Additionally, professional organizations frequently offer certifications to provide professionals with a competitive edge when seeking employment.

  • American Marketing Association (AMA): The AMA promotes excellence in marketing through its continuing education events, career resources, and scholarly publications. Members receive access to more than 100 instant streaming webcasts that discuss the most recent trends in marketing.
  • Insights Association : The Insights Association began in 2017 when two market research organizations combined. This professional organization's numerous functions include government legislation and advocacy, the promotion of evidence-based practices, and stimulating business growth for its members.
  • Sales Management Association : With an emphasis on sales force effectiveness, this international professional organization caters to professionals working in sales operations, management consultation, and business education. This organization features a blog and a media/branding guide.

Funding a doctorate in marketing online program may be one of the biggest hurdles for prospective students. Fortunately, opportunities for financial assistance are abundant. The federal government serves as a major funding source, offering several financial assistance programs that help students meet tuition requirements. Students complete the FAFSA to determine federal aid eligibility. Students may also qualify for low interest federal loans, grants, and work study programs.

In addition to federal financial aid, students may receive monetary support through scholarships and grants. Offered by colleges, organizations, and private donors, scholarships cater to students from diverse backgrounds. Several scholarships are available to women, minorities, and first generation college students. Doctoral students may also apply for grants, which could potentially cover the cost of textbooks and help fund research projects. Scholarships and grants require no repayment.

Tuition reimbursement programs provide students with another affordable option that allows them to earn their Ph.D. in marketing online while avoiding high tuition costs. Several national corporations, such as Procter & Gamble and Wells Fargo, help employees return to school by offering hefty tuition reimbursements. Some businesses pay up to 90% of a student's tuition.

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2024 Best Online PhD in Digital Marketing [Doctorate Guide]

A PhD in Digital Marketing online program can give you the opportunity to specialize in business research. A PhD is also one of the highest educational qualifications that you can get in the field.

Best Online PhD in Digital Marketing

Digital marketing is an innovative and future-ready field, and it’s already essential for many businesses. In a digital marketing PhD program, you can work toward becoming a domain expert and get firsthand experience with research.

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With the growing number of distance learning options, it’s now more convenient than ever to earn this lucrative doctorate.

Universities Offering Online Doctorate in Digital Marketing Degree Program

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

California Baptist University

California Baptist University offers a Doctor of Business Administration online program. This is a 56-unit program created for working adults. It can potentially be completed in as little as 3 years, including the dissertation. Classes are 8 weeks long and are taught by credentialed faculty with real-world business experience.

California Baptist University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.

Concordia University – Chicago

Concordia University—Chicago offers a Doctorate in Business Administration that can be earned entirely online. It requires the completion of 60 credit hours and can potentially be completed in just 3 years.

Two specializations are available within the program: Innovation in Health Care Management and Strategic Leadership and Innovation.

Concordia University Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

George Fox University

George Fox University offers a Doctor of Business Administration. Concentrations are available in Accounting, Management, and Business Analytics. This is an online program that follows a cohort model. There are two required in-person sessions in Newberg, Oregon.

Students typically spend 3 years on coursework and 1 year completing a dissertation.

George Fox University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University offers a Doctor of Business Administration with an emphasis in Marketing (Quantitative Research). The program focuses on the collection and interpretation of numeric data to aid in making business decisions.

Courses include Digital Technology and Consumer Behavior, Economics for Business Decisions, Complexity of Marketing, and The History and Philosophy of Marketing.

Grand Canyon University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Kennesaw State University

Kennesaw State University offers a PhD in Business Administration. The program is mostly online, but there is an in-person residency once a month. It is often useful for business professionals wishing to pursue academic positions.

Concentrations are available in Accounting, Information Systems, Management, and Marketing.

Kennesaw State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Liberty University

Liberty University offers a Doctor of Business Administration in Marketing. Courses are 8 weeks long and 100% online. Courses include Strategic Marketing Management, Marketing Promotions, Supply Chain Management, and Marketing Research.

The program requires the completion of 60 credit hours, and students usually finish in 3 years. It is designed to teach practical, real-world skills.

Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

National University

National University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration with a specialization in Strategic Marketing. The program is designed to help prepare students for leadership roles in a variety of business settings. It requires the completion of 60 credit hours and can usually be completed in 3 to 4 years.

National University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Trident University International

Trident University International offers a Doctor of Business Administration that can be earned 100% online. The program covers how to make evidence-based decisions and strategically improve business processes and outcomes. It is designed to provide flexibility for adult students.

Students in the program are required to complete an applied doctoral study project rather than a dissertation.

Trident University International is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of the Cumberlands

The University of the Cumberlands offers an online program for a Doctor of Philosophy in Business. Students can choose a specialty in Accounting, Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Finance, Healthcare Administration, Project Management, or Strategic Management.

Core courses include Advanced Managerial Accounting, Strategic Marketing: Research and Practice, and Corporate Finance: Fiscal Management in a Global Climate.

The University of the Cumberlands is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Walden University

Walden University offers a Doctor of Business Administration in Marketing. The program covers key marketing concepts, including competitive intelligence, marketing channels, product development and commercialization, and consumer behavior. It also includes a capstone project.

Students have up to 8 years to finish the program.

Walden University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

PhD in Digital Marketing Online Programs

PhD in Digital Marketing

PhD in Digital Marketing programs are focused on creating scholars and knowledgeable experts who can help the industry move forward with original research. You can be trained to use your data analysis skills to solve marketing challenges.

Digital marketing is a quickly evolving field that relies on the latest technology.

It spans many of the modern tools and strategies currently used by companies to reach their target audiences, including social media, email, search engines, websites, and analytics.

As a digital marketing PhD student, you’ll likely choose a specific research question and build your expertise around that area. Doctorate programs in digital marketing typically emphasize econometrics, statistical analysis, and experimental research. You’ll likely take classes on marketing theories and applications as well.

During the second half of your PhD program, you’ll probably spend most of your time working on a dissertation that can be published in an academic journal.

Most programs will provide opportunities to learn how to critically analyze current papers on digital marketing and will have experienced faculty members with similar research expertise that can help guide you.

Different programs offer different concentrations, but here are some of the most common research areas:

  • Consumer culture
  • International marketing
  • Product development
  • Marketing innovation
  • Social media sentiment
  • Online advertising

To create an original research paper, you can study advanced models in marketing along with special topics. You can also practice using mathematical and economics tools to get insights from data.

Because of the focus on independent research, digital marketing PhD programs often include seminars and customizable classes along with plenty of time to work on your own.

Most graduates with a PhD in Digital Marketing become professors who conduct university research. Since data analysis expertise is highly sought after, others become market research consultants. Some take on strategic, executive-level roles instead, where they can apply what they’ve learned in a business setting. 

Digital Marketing Careers & Salaries

Digital Marketing Careers & Salaries

With the specialized skills that you can develop through a digital marketing PhD program, you can pursue careers in both the public and private sectors.

The most common career track for PhD graduates is academia, where they often teach marketing or business classes in colleges and universities. Because a PhD in Marketing is research-intensive, graduates are often well-equipped to conduct research alongside teaching.

For those who prefer to work for private companies, management roles in marketing and sales are often possible.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , here are the yearly median salaries of some of the advanced careers related to digital marketing. 

T hese are only the median salaries for each job. Actual salaries can vary based on location, your field of expertise, and many other factors. Still, the main career tracks—management, academia, and data analysis—may lead to high-paying roles down the road.

Outside of academia, professionals with a PhD in Marketing may become market research analysts or data analysts. Marketing is one of the fastest-growing fields today, with roles in diverse industries, such as management consulting, technology, and healthcare.

Digital Marketing PhD Curriculum & Courses

Digital Marketing PhD

Online doctorate in digital marketing programs usually involve a lot of independent study, and classes vary based on the school, but you’ll likely take classes similar to the following:

  • Microeconomic Theory : This course explores how individuals and organizations interact in different market structures, utilizing game theory to make predictions for decision-making.
  • Econometrics : Going beyond economic theory, this course discusses how to make forecasts and draw cause-and-effect relationships through data analysis tools.
  • Statistical Analysis : This course lays the groundwork for more advanced research classes by covering statistical methods for gathering and analyzing data.
  • Qualitative Research : This class can give you the opportunity to have hands-on practice with qualitative research methods—such as one-on-one interviews, focus groups, and observation—and learn how to write reports about your findings.
  • Industrial Organization : This course gives an overview of how organizations function realistically and how they influence each other when it comes to advertising, product placement, and other marketing dynamics.
  • Marketing Management : This class delves into how to launch and implement marketing strategies across an entire organization, including tracking analytics, developing a brand, and maintaining customer relationships.
  • Advanced Marketing Theory : This course delves into traditional and modern marketing models that are backed by research. You’ll likely need to read a wide range of academic papers and give your own critical analysis.
  • Quantitative Research : This course aims to teach how to apply the statistical and econometric tools learned in other courses in order to design your own experiments.
  • Consumer Behavior : The core of marketing lies in getting to know your consumers’ motivations, goals, and pain points and then adapting to these for effective brand positioning.
  • Social Psychology : This class examines how people behave in a social environment and what factors influence their behavior.

Aside from these courses, a PhD in Digital Marketing will usually allow you to choose from several electives based on your research interests as well.

Admissions Requirements

PhD in Digital Marketing admissions

Most digital marketing PhD programs have the following admission requirements:

  • School transcripts . You’ll probably be asked to submit transcripts of all your previous undergraduate and graduate work.
  • GMAT or GRE scores . Some doctorate programs still ask for standardized test scores, but a growing number of schools no longer require them.
  • Recommendation letters . PhD programs generally favor academic references from former professors.
  • Personal statement . You’ll typically be asked to describe your career goals and research plans.
  • Resume . Admission officers may want to see if you’ve done any related work in your career.

Admissions for a PhD program tend to be stricter since it takes a lot of time and dedication to finish.

Accreditation

PhD in Digital Marketing accreditation

Since a PhD is the highest educational qualification that you can get, it’s essential to choose an accredited school with a high-quality program.

Regionally accredited schools meet up-to-date educational standards for their programs. Attending an accredited school is an eligibility factor for government financial aid as well. Employers may also favor degrees from accredited schools, especially if you’re planning to work at a university.

The US Department of Education maintains a list of accredited schools across the US, so you can confirm a school’s accreditation status on their website.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

PhD in Digital Marketing financial aid

As an incoming PhD student, you have a number of financial aid options you can explore. You may want to start your financial aid search by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) . This will determine your eligibility for government financial aid in the form of loans, grants, and work-study programs.

There are also opportunities for fellowships, which, if awarded, will allow you to focus on a specific field of research while getting your tuition fully paid. These are awarded on a merit basis, and a regular stipend may be included.

Another option would be to pursue graduate assistantships, where you can teach or help with a school’s research projects while you continue your studies. Assistantships can be beneficial since you can work for the school while increasing your research and teaching experience.

There are also private and public scholarships available for qualifying PhD students. These are usually merit-based as well.

Do You Need a Masters to Get a PhD in Digital Marketing?

PhD in Digital Marketing programs

It depends on the university, but many PhD programs accept students who only have an undergraduate degree.

The most standard track, though, is to earn your master’s and then apply for a PhD program. Still, it’s possible to skip your master’s and go straight to doctoral studies after earning your bachelor’s degree. This could potentially fast-track you by 1 to 2 years, but you’d also have less experience with research.

Depending on the program, if you’re applying with a bachelor’s, you may need a stronger application to help you stand out amongst applicants with master’s degrees.

If you do decide to earn a master’s, it may be worth noting that a number of universities offer an online masters in digital marketing , which may allow you to better balance your life responsibilities. Some also offerb accelerated marketing degree options at the master’s level.

What Can You Do with a Doctoral Degree in Digital Marketing?

Doctoral Degree in Digital Marketing

A PhD in Digital Marketing can help you build a career in research, teaching, data analysis, and management. The academic field is the most popular destination for PhD graduates of digital marketing. They often work as professors who are active in research.

Some graduates opt to work in management, with roles such as chief executive and marketing manager.

Based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, many management jobs offer higher than average salaries. Graduates may also use their knowledge of statistics and data analysis to work for technology and research companies.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Doctorate in Digital Marketing Online?

Most digital marketing PhD programs take 3 to 5 years to complete if you’re studying full-time. On a part-time schedule, it will often take longer. Time to completion varies a lot from program to program. One factor that can change how long it takes is how many credits you’re required to complete.

A dissertation requirement is another factor that can impact your timeline to graduation. Typically, the second half of a PhD program involves writing a dissertation, which is often the most time-consuming part. Without a dissertation requirement, you might be able to finish in 3 years with full-time study.

What’s the Difference between a DBA vs. PhD in Digital Marketing?

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Digital Marketing has a different focus compared to a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA).

A PhD in Digital Marketing is ultimately focused on how to publish research.

What’s the Difference between Digital Marketing vs. Social Media Marketing?

The terms “digital marketing” and “social media marketing” are often interchanged, but they’re not the same.

Social media marketing is only one component of digital marketing, which is much broader.

What’s the Difference between Internet Marketing vs. Digital Marketing Doctoral Programs?

Internet marketing and digital marketing doctoral programs have different areas of study. 

There are slight differences, but digital marketing can cover both internet marketing and offline marketing.

Is a PhD in Digital Marketing Worth It?

Doctorate in Digital Marketing Degree

Yes, a PhD in Digital Marketing is worth it for many students. If you’re aiming for a career in academia, a PhD in Digital Marketing can help you qualify. It can also help prepare you for research-intensive industries, especially since you’ll be graduating with your own original research.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, postsecondary teachers are in demand and expected to see 12% job growth over the next ten years. The market research job sector is also growing much faster than average.

Outside of research and academia, your PhD degree can also be a sign to employers that you have a good work ethic and specialized knowledge. 

Getting Your PhD in Digital Marketing Online

PhD in Digital Marketing Online

A PhD is the highest education credential that you can get in the field of digital marketing. It can be a stepping stone for working in research and academia.

Earning your PhD in digital marketing can help you become an expert in the subject matter. PhD programs in this field typically provide extensive training in delving into research and analyzing digital marketing trends. 

Since completing a doctorate can take several years, one option is to get your PhD in Digital Marketing online. Online marketing degree programs often allow for more flexible and convenient scheduling, better enabling you to balance your studies with work and life responsibilities.

If you’re ready to set out on your doctoral journey, there are many accredited schools with diverse research interests that you can explore.

phd in marketing distance learning

  • Harvard Business School →
  • Doctoral Programs →
  • PhD Programs
  • Accounting & Management
  • Business Economics
  • Health Policy (Management)
  • Organizational Behavior
  • Technology & Operations Management
  • Program Requirements

Curriculum & Coursework

Our programs are full-time degree programs which officially begin in August. Students are expected to complete their program in five years. Typically, the first two years are spent on coursework, at the end of which students take a field exam, and then another three years on dissertation research and writing.

The Marketing program draws on computer science, economics, behavioral science, and psychological methods to focus on marketing problems faced by the firm and its management. Through a combination of discipline- and field-based methods, the curriculum enables students to master concepts and research skills directly relevant to business problems. Candidates must come to understand the point of view of practicing managers and be able to bring theory and careful research to bear in illuminating important business problems.

The program requires a minimum of 13 semester-long doctoral courses. Students in the Marketing program are required to complete a year-long discipline sequence typically in microeconomics or psychology. They also complete courses in the areas of machine learning, computer science, statistics, research methods, academic field seminars, and two MBA elective curriculum courses. In addition to HBS courses, students often take courses at other Harvard Schools and MIT.

Research & Dissertation

Students in Marketing begin research in their first year typically by working with a faculty member. By their third and fourth years, most students are launched on a solid research and publication stream. The dissertation may take the form of three publishable papers or one longer dissertation.

Recent examples of doctoral thesis research include: The effects of brand extensions on the value of parent brands; Multi-method examination of the consumption of “knockoffs” of high status brands, and the counter-intuitive positive outcomes for consumer-brand relationships; Competitive analysis of pricing and quality decisions in industries with strictly complimentary products; The psychological effects of pricing, and how these affect consumers and firms; and "Choice amnesia," the motivated forgetting of difficult decisions.

phd in marketing distance learning

Mengjie "Magie" Cheng

phd in marketing distance learning

Ta-Wei "David" Huang

“ Finding an advisor who you really click with and who is willing to support your research interests is absolutely key. ”

phd in marketing distance learning

Current HBS Faculty

  • Tomomichi Amano
  • Eva Ascarza
  • Max H. Bazerman
  • David E. Bell
  • Alison Wood Brooks
  • Julian De Freitas
  • Rohit Deshpande
  • Anita Elberse
  • Sunil Gupta
  • Ayelet Israeli
  • Leslie K. John
  • Elizabeth A. Keenan
  • Edward McFowland III
  • Navid Mojir
  • Das Narayandas
  • Michael I. Norton
  • V. Kasturi Rangan
  • Isamar Troncoso
  • Jeremy Yang
  • Shunyuan Zhang

Current Marketing Students

  • Stuti Agarwal
  • Mengjie (Magie) Cheng
  • Jingpeng Hong
  • Ta-Wei (David) Huang
  • Sihan Zhai

Current HBS Faculty & Students by Interest

Recent placement, jimin nam, 2024, byungyeon kim, 2022, emily prinsloo, 2023, ximena garcia-rada, 2021, serena hagerty, 2022, dafna goor, 2020.

2024 Best Online PhD in Marketing Programs [Doctorate Guide]

Is it beneficial to pursue a PhD in Marketing online when marketing is essentially a practical business skill?

PhD in Marketing Programs

In the wake of shifting consumer behaviors and evolving media and communication landscapes, there’s enormous change happening in some fundamental areas of marketing science and methods.

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As a result, a number of marketing leaders are viewing online Ph.D. programs as an intriguing next step in their careers.

Online PhD in Marketing Degree Programs

PhD in Marketing Degree Programs

Large marketing campaigns and multinational marketing initiatives can require big investments.

Effective marketing strategies can involve complex market survey methods, concepts related to consumer behavior, and tactics that rely on skillfully deploying AI and machine learning software. There are inward-facing marketing strategies too, such as sales team training, sales force investment strategies, and pricing strategies.

Online marketing doctoral degree programs can offer you the opportunity to pursue expertise in a range of topics:

  • Market modeling and forecasting
  • Consumer behavior and psychology
  • Services marketing methods
  • Multinational marketing
  • Advanced research methods and applications

As you start exploring online marketing PhD programs, you’ll discover that schools vary in their curriculum designs and in the areas of specialization that they offer.

Marketing PhD Careers & Salaries

Marketing PhD Careers & Salaries

Getting an online PhD in Marketing can open doors to a variety of opportunities. Experts in the field may seek roles in senior marketing management, business development, private consulting, or research and academia.

Important segments within the field of marketing include branding, market research, creative content development, pricing strategy, salesforce management, customer retention, and marketing analytics.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , marketing qualifications and related skills are applicable to many well-paid careers.

Marketing efforts typically require collaboration between many specialized designers, copywriters, advertisers, and sales team members. Professionals with marketing expertise often lead and monitor larger marketing teams and initiatives.

In other cases, a marketing professional might specialize in e-commerce startups or in highly entrepreneurial settings. Information-age innovations are changing marketing tools and strategies, so this could be a strategic time to advance your education and research in this fast-changing field.

With a doctoral degree, you might also consider teaching in postsecondary institutions, working with business and marketing consulting firms, serving in marketing management or freelancing as a marketing consultant.

Marketing Doctorate Curriculum

Marketing Doctorate Curriculum

Online PhD marketing programs vary by school. Most will give you a chance to study more advanced topics in the field, choose a distinct focus area, such as buyer behavior vs. modeling and analytics, and engage in experimentation and research.

  • Buyer Behavior and Psychology : You’ll explore and extend key concepts related to the study of buyer behavior, examining and modeling key findings and experimental research.
  • Social Psychology in the Market Place : You’ll learn how to profile consumer culture, psychology, and behaviors and how to translate this data into strategic marketing insights.
  • Product Development and Pricing Strategies : You’ll learn advanced methods and strategies for product pricing and positioning in relation to specific marketing objectives.
  • Digital Branding : You’ll learn about experimental approaches to comprehensive digital branding strategies relevant to large businesses, multinational footprints, and entrepreneurial contexts.
  • Market Modeling and Forecasting : You’ll learn analytic tools and practices that will allow you to provide valuable analytic modeling for data-driven marketing and decision making.
  • Applied Marketing Models : You’ll explore and test modeling tools in conjunction with different objects of analysis, such as buyer behavior, conversion rates, or marketing ROI.
  • Multinational Marketing : This course will give you tested strategies for scaling up all aspects of marketing operations for large-scale business settings.
  • Marketing Technology : You’ll examine current topics in marketing technology innovations and applications and related ethical topics.
  • Services Marketing : This course helps you apply strategies specific to both entrepreneurial and large-scale e-commerce initiatives.
  • Quantitative and Qualitative Research Models : You’ll study scientific marketing analysis methods in the context of key aspects of marketing psychology, marketing communications, and marketing investments.

These are just examples of courses you might take in a PhD marketing program. While courses and their content will vary by school and program, you can expect to learn from seasoned marketing management professionals and to engage in advanced topics and analytic thinking and research.

How to Choose an Online Doctorate in Marketing Program

Online Doctorate in Marketing Program

Just as when exploring online bachelors degree in marketing or online MBA in Marketing programs, it can also be helpful to consider your own interests, professional goals, and gaps in knowledge as you look for online marketing PhD programs.

  • Concentration offerings . You can look for a program with study tracks and specializations in the branches of marketing that most interest you.
  • Flexibility . There are many online program options, so you may want to decide if you need or prefer a program with more flexible asynchronous study options.
  • In-person vs. online . You may want to avoid hybrid programs if you don’t want any in-person learning requirements or expect you’ll be living too far from campus.
  • Program preferences . Academic rigor, faculty qualifications and accomplishments, tuition costs, and the required number of credit hours can all vary significantly from school to school. You may want to look for schools offering a learning experience that meets your expectations.

As you check out different programs, you may get an even clearer picture of your different options and what kinds of curriculum designs are available to choose from.

Admissions Requirements

PhD in Marketing Programs Admissions

Some online doctorate in marketing programs require you to have a masters degree, but others don’t. Admissions requirements can vary greatly by school and program. Some common requirements include:

  • Bachelor’s or master’s degree
  • GRE or GMAT scores (if required)
  • Satisfactory GPA
  • Relevant professional experience
  • Letters of recommendation (if required)

Relevant work experience may be required more often for a professional doctorate than a PhD program. Admissions officers may request additional criteria as well to ensure that you’re prepared for doctoral-level coursework.

Accreditation

PhD in Marketing Programs Accreditation

A school with regional accreditation has been evaluated by an outside agency and has been found to meet standards of academic quality. An accrediting organization also evaluates a school’s student services.

Accreditation can impact credit transfers as well as financial aid offers. These are just a few of the benefits of sticking with fully accredited schools and programs. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) has more information about accreditation as well as a database of accredited schools.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

PhD in Marketing Programs Financial Aid

Many professionals who qualify rely on financial aid to help them advance their education.

Need-based financial aid might be available to you in the form of federal or state aid. You may also pursue financial assistance through employer-based tuition programs and need-based or merit-based scholarships.

Student loans are part of many financial aid packages. Terms for loans and aid packages can vary, so it’s beneficial to review all offers carefully. If you’ll be applying for need-based aid, you can start by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) .

Marketing Professional Organizations

Marketing Professional Organizations

If you know you’re headed for a career in marketing, it’s never too soon to connect with one of the professional associations in the field:

  • American Marketing Association (AMA)
  • eMarketing Association (EMA)
  • Society for Marketing Professional Services (SMPS)

The benefits of your membership can include keeping up with industry trends, finding out about professional development offers, and boosting your networking opportunities.

Should I Get a PhD in Marketing?

PhD in Marketing

There could be many reasons why someone pursues a PhD in Marketing. Each person’s motivations can differ greatly, but here are a few benefits of earning a marketing PhD:

  • A sense of personal accomplishment . If you have a passion for marketing and the profession, you may want to get a PhD to live out that passion.
  • Senior roles and higher pay . Getting a PhD can boost your resume, and a PhD program can help you qualify for senior roles in the field. In addition, a doctoral education often leads to higher earning potential.
  • Opportunities in academia . Getting a PhD, conducting original research, and writing a dissertation can all be essential first steps for building a career in academia.
  • Intellectual drive . If you like probing topics and following new threads of thought and research wherever they lead, a PhD program can provide an outlet for abstract inquiry and for rigorous applications of scientific method and analysis.

Pursuing a PhD can be very rewarding, but it also requires a big commitment. It can be beneficial to weigh your own pros and cons before enrolling in a doctoral program.

What Can You Do with a PhD in Marketing?

PhD in Marketing roles

With a PhD in Marketing paired with work experience, you could be qualified to pursue senior or leadership roles in marketing.

Some marketing specialists work in senior advertising, promotions, or marketing roles. Depending on your specialization, you might also qualify to work in financial analysis roles. A professional in this position can help companies analyze marketing investments and returns or help manage a private marketing firm.

Some marketing professionals with a PhD continue actively learning and researching, applying their research interests and accomplishments in consulting roles or in academia.

How Much Does a Marketing Manager Make?

PhD in Marketing salaries

How much you make as a marketing manager can vary based on your professional skills and experience, where you live, and what kind of organization you work for.

That said, effective marketing investments and strategies can directly drive revenues and profits for many companies. This kind of success can also reward marketing directors with good pay.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, advertising and marketing managers, financial managers, sales managers, and public relations managers are careers that, on average, reward workers with salaries well above $100,000. The median annual salary for marketing managers in particular is $142,170.

How Long Does a PhD in Marketing Take?

How long it takes to get an online doctorate in marketing can vary by school and program. The time you need to complete a dissertation can also impact how long your doctoral program takes.

Marketing doctoral programs generally take 3 to 5 years to complete. If no dissertation is required, it may be possible to finish in 3 years with full-time study.

What’s the Difference Between Marketing vs. Advertising?

Marketing vs. Advertising

Advertising is just one of the many components within marketing. Marketing managers may have the following responsibilities:

  • Oversee marketing budgets
  • Coordinate marketing strategy
  • Manage marketing team members, such as advertisers and copywriters
  • Study consumer behavior, market trends, and marketing economics

Advertising specialists typically do the following:

  • Work within a larger marketing team
  • Create advertising campaigns for specific products and services
  • Plan how to promote a specific product or service
  • Create advertising collateral with the input of marketing team members

Both marketers and advertisers can engage in creating concepts and branding. Marketing directors, though, tend to use research and business decision-making skills to inform broad branding and marketing strategies. They measure marketing results, and advertisers create actual ad collateral for specific products or services.

What’s the Difference Between a DBA vs. PhD in Marketing?

DBA vs. PhD in Marketing

In marketing and other professional fields, getting a professional doctorate is a common alternative to getting a PhD. A DBA is a professional doctorate in business administration, and marketing is a common concentration option.

Here are some key differences between the two types of degrees:

A doctorate in business administration is less specialized than a degree in marketing, so you may want to look into online DBA programs that offer a marketing pathway.

What’s the Difference Between Digital Marketing vs. Social Media Marketing?

Digital Marketing vs. Social Media Marketing

Social media marketing is a component of digital marketing. Both of these marketing strategies live in a digital world and seek to build out a company’s digital presence.

  • Digital marketing : Digital marketing seeks to attract and engage prospective customers through both direct advertising online and through many forms of less directive online content.
  • Social media marketing : This specialty field within digital marketing focuses on using social media platforms to engage prospective customers through social media posts, ads, and conversations.

While social media marketing specifically utilizes social media platforms to create ads and build brands, digital marketing utilizes a wider range of tools and resources. For example, digital marketing can encompass websites, landing pages, blog posts, and email campaigns.

Is a PhD in Marketing Worth It?

Yes, a PhD in Marketing is worth it for many professionals. Marketing is a highly competitive, essential, and dynamic branch of business strategy and marketing management. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 7% job growth for marketing managers over the next ten years.

A marketing PhD program can help you develop your expertise and learn new marketing concepts, such as content marketing, social media marketing, and service marketing. PhD graduates may seek senior marketing roles, work in business and marketing consulting, or even pursue jobs in academia, so this marketing degree is worth it for many people who want to work in this field.

Universities Offering Online Doctorate in Marketing Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

Alliant International University

Alliant International University offers an online program for a Doctor of Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing.

The program can usually be completed in 3 years and includes an internship and a dissertation. Applicants must complete a faculty interview, have a master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0, and submit a personal statement, resume, and 2 letters of recommendation.

Alliant International University  is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Bellevue University

Bellevue University offers a Doctor of Business Administration program with a number of courses focused on marketing. To graduate, students must complete 91 credit hours, with 36 credits coming from the student’s master degree. Applicants must have a Master of Business Administration or 5 years of work experience in the field.

Bellevue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

California Baptist University

California Baptist University offers an online Doctor of Business Administration program with a number of courses focused on marketing. To graduate, students must complete 56 credit hours, including a dissertation. Applicants must have a Master of Business Administration and need to submit a resume and a personal statement when applying.

California Baptist University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.

California Southern University

California Southern University offers a Doctor of Business Administration with a number of concentrations for students to choose from.

To graduate, students must complete 60 credits, including a 14 credit doctoral project and a comprehensive essay examination. Applicants must submit official transcripts, a government-issued ID, and a personal statement when applying.

California Southern University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

City University of Seattle

City University of Seattle offers an online Doctor of Business Administration program.

Students in the program may add a 12 credit specialization of their own design by proposing a Specialized Study to the program director. To graduate, students must complete 91 credits. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher, 5 years of professional experience, and 3 references.

City University of Seattle is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Concordia University - Chicago

Concordia University—Chicago offers an online Doctor of Business Administration that includes a number of marketing courses. To graduate, students must complete 60 credit hours, a dissertation, and 3 residencies. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher and 5 years of experience.

Concordia University Chicago  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Drexel University

Drexel University offers an Executive Doctorate in Business Administration.

This part-time program allows students to learn about a number of business-related fields, including marketing. To be eligible for the program, applicants must have a graduate degree with a GPA of 3.3 and need to submit GMAT or GRE scores, an essay, and 2 letters of recommendation.

Drexel University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Felician University

Felician University offers a Doctor of Business Administration program with courses on marketing theory.

The program is self-paced and completely online. Students must obtain 61 credits and finish a dissertation to graduate. To be eligible for the program, applicants must have an MBA and need to submit a resume, official transcripts, and a personal statement.

Felician University  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Florida International University

Florida International University offers a Doctor of Business Administration program that includes courses on marketing.

Though the program is online, four 2-day residencies are required. The program usually takes 3 years to complete, with the final year dedicated to a dissertation. To be eligible for the program, applicants must have 10 years of work experience. Florida International University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Franklin University

Franklin University offers a Doctor of Business Administration with a focus area in marketing.

The program requires 58 semester hours to be completed and can usually be finished in 3 years. To graduate, students must maintain a GPA of 3.0. Applicants must have 30 hours of graduate courses in a business field with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Franklin University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

George Fox University

George Fox University offers a Doctor of Business Administration with the option to add a concentration in marketing.

Students must complete 56 credit hours to graduate. The courses are offered online as cohorts, but two 4-day residencies on campus are required. Applicants must have a bachelor’s and master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. George Fox University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University offers an online Doctor of Business Administration in Marketing. Students must complete 60 credit hours, including a dissertation, to graduate. Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and need to submit an online application with official transcripts to be eligible for the program. Grand Canyon University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Johnson and Wales University

Johnson and Wales University offers a Doctor of Business Administration that includes a number of marketing courses.

The program can typically be completed in 3 years and classes are 8 weeks long. To graduate, students must obtain 54 credits, including a dissertation. Applicants must submit official transcripts and have 2 references willing to fill out an online survey.

JWU  is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Liberty University

Liberty University offers an online Doctor of Business Administration in Marketing. The program usually takes 3 years to complete. Courses can be taken online and are 8 weeks long. To graduate, students must complete 60 credit hours. Applicants must have a master’s degree in a business-related field with a GPA of 3.0 or higher.

Liberty University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Ligs University

LIGS University offers a PhD in Marketing. The program can usually be completed online in 3 years. Students must finish 10 courses, including 2 electives and 2 specialization courses of their choice. To be eligible for the program, applicants must have a master’s degree and need to submit a CV, an official transcript, and government-issued ID.

LIGS University  is accredited by Accreditation Service for International Schools, Colleges and Universities.

National University

National University offers a PhD in Business Administration with a specialization in Strategic Marketing. To graduate, students must complete 20 courses, which can be taken online. The program offers weekly start dates, allowing students to apply at any time. To be eligible for the program, applicants must have a master’s degree.

National University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Temple University

Temple University offers a Doctor of Business Administration program with the option to take courses in marketing. To graduate, students must complete 54 credit hours, including a dissertation in the final year. Applicants must submit a letter of recommendation and 2 essays and take part in an interview.

Temple University  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Thomas Edison State University

Thomas Edison State University offers a Doctor of Business Administration program with courses in Marketing.

Students may complete 13 courses that are 8 weeks long over the course of 32 months. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a GPA of 3.0. If an applicant’s GPA is less than 3.0, applicants may submit a resume and a personal statement to improve their application.

Thomas Edison State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Trident University

Trident University International offers a PhD in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing. To graduate, students must complete 10 classes and a dissertation. A comprehensive exam is held at the end of each course. To be eligible for the program, applicants must have a master’s degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher.

Trident University International  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of Dallas

The University of Dallas offers a Doctor of Business Administration online program. Among the courses required to graduate is one dedicated to marketing and marketing research.

To graduate, students must complete a dissertation and 33 other credits. Those interested in the program must fill out an online application with 2 letters of recommendation and a resume before attending an admission interview.

The  University of Dallas  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of Missouri - Saint Louis

The University of Missouri—St. Louis offers a Doctor of Business Administration. To graduate, students must complete 60 credit hours, including courses in marketing and a final dissertation. Those interested in the program must submit an application with a resume, 2 references, official transcripts, and 2 essays.

The  University of Missouri-St. Louis  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of South Florida

The University of South Florida offers an online program for a PhD in Business Administration with the option to add a Marketing Concentration. The program requires 72 credit hours and usually takes 3 years to complete. Applicants must submit a resume, a transcript, and a statement of purpose.

The  University of South Florida  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Walden University

Walden University offers a Doctor of Business Administration in Marketing. Students have 8 years to complete the minimum requirement of 37 credit hours.

While the courses are online, two face-to-face academic residencies are required as well. Applicants must complete an online application that includes employment history, academic history, and official transcripts.

Walden is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

Westcliff University

Westcliff University offers a Doctor of Business Administrations program with a number of courses in marketing.

Students must complete 50 credit hours to graduate, including a final dissertation project. Applicants must submit an application with official transcripts from all previously attended post-secondary schools, a personal statement, and government-issued ID.

Westcliff University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Wilmington University

Wilmington University offers a Doctor of Business Administration program with an advanced marketing seminar.

To graduate, students must complete 54 semester hours and a dissertation or research project. Courses are 7 weeks long and can be taken completely online. Applicants must submit an application with official transcripts, a resume, and 3 letters of recommendation.

Wilmington University  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Earning Your PhD in Marketing Online

PhD in Marketing Online

Today’s marketing experts can make valuable contributions to a company’s success. With so many new and evolving marketing management strategies and communication channels, advanced studies in marketing may offer you increased career value.

If you like business dynamics and have a penchant for rigorous, systematic study and research-design methods, you might be well suited for this intriguing online graduate degree pathway.

If you’re ready to advance your education and expertise in this lucrative field, you can start by exploring online PhD marketing programs from accredited universities.

phd in marketing distance learning

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Online PhD in Marketing Degree Programs

PhD and doctor of business (DBA) degrees in marketing are designed to empower professionals with research capabilities and expertise to enable them meet the needs of modern businesses and academic institutions.

Like most PhD programs, an online PhD in marketing is best suited for professionals who want to start or enhance their career in the world of academia and become professors in business schools, colleges and universities where they can also do theoretical research to advance the discipline of marketing.

Online DBA in marketing primarily focuses on active research and practical business concepts of marketing for success in the local and international marketplaces. Graduates with DBA in marketing degrees often pursue careers in research think tanks, non-government organizations and the corporate world as consultants, CEO's or strategic partners.

Featured Colleges offering Online PhD in Marketing Degrees

Northcentral University - Online Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration (PhD) - Marketing: This specialization focuses on marketing management and research, including managing the entire scope of product life cycle for domestic and international marketing. The specialization provides strategies for a sound, systematic, ethical, and legal approach to contemporary marketing practices and research theory..

phd in marketing distance learning

Northcentral University - Online Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) - Marketing: This specialization focuses on marketing management and research including managing the entire scope of product life cycle for domestic and international marketing. The specialization provides strategies for a sound, systematic, ethical, and legal approach to contemporary marketing practices. Learners will complete a final written research project, demonstrating the ability to conduct an investigation on a workplace problem, identify an area for intervention, critique, justify, and recommend a plan of preventative action.

Argosy University Online - Online Doctor of Business Administration - Marketing: Often referred to as a professional research doctorate, a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree program at Argosy is designed to enhance the capabilities of experienced professionals to enable them to meet the dynamic needs of modern organizations and academic institutions. Online doctor of business administration (DBA) with a focus in marketing features a curriculum that focuses on practical business concepts and active research rather than a purely theoretical approach.

Doctoral Marketing Programs - Education

The requirements for an online doctoral degree in marketing vary by program or university. While some programs accept learners with an undergraduate degree, most require prospective student to have an MBA. A distance learning marketing doctorate degree typically takes four to five years, depending on program focus, individual progress and credits transferred (if any). Popular focuses for research for those pursuing a PhD in marketing program include consumer behavior, marketing science (modeling) and the recent B2B marketing which involves the study of Business-to-Business marketplace.

In the online PhD in marketing degree program, you will take core courses that build up your skills for research. Since research is an important aspect of a doctoral degree program, you will select an area for intensive study and perform a cutting-edge research in that field. This culminates into a doctoral thesis or dissertation as a condition for graduating from the program. Most online colleges and universities have residency requirements for doctoral students.

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PhD in Marketing Online

Find your degree.

online DBA in Marketing, marketing degrees

Are you thinking about pursuing a Ph.D. in marketing? This article ranks the top online doctoral marketing degree programs across the country. Marketing is a very diverse discipline. Those who want to pursue marketing at the doctorate level already have a lot of experience with this. The marketing field encompasses advertising, media planning, brand management, and much more. 

You may find yourself drawn to the things that make consumers tick. Perhaps you want to dive deeply into research methods and teach at a university. On the other hand, you may simply want to achieve the highest academic honor you can in your field. Regardless of your reasons for wanting to earn your doctorate degree or PhD in marketing, we’re here to help.

You May Also Like: The 20 Fastest Online Doctoral Programs

What Is the Job Outlook for Those With a PhD in Marketing?

Marketing as a whole is a vast industry. Advertising, promotions, and marketing management is projected to grow by 10% through 2031. Over the next decade, around 35,300 new openings for such professionals are projected each year. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , the median annual salary for marketing managers is $133,380.

Why Pursue A PhD in Marketing?

There are many excellent reasons to pursue a doctoral marketing degree. For starters, it can open up some exciting career opportunities. For example, you could become a professor and teach the next generation of marketers. You could work for a research firm helping companies understand their customers better. Plus, marketing programs will prepare you for a number of high-level (and high-paying) careers in the field.

Another reason to pursue a PhD in marketing is that you get to dive deep into a subject you’re passionate about. Are you fascinated by consumer behavior, brand management, or advertising? A PhD in marketing will allow you to explore those topics in greater detail. You’ll get to work with other marketing professionals and business leaders. And with an online doctor of marketing, you will also have the chance to contribute to the body of knowledge in the field.

Related: Where to Find the Best DBA or Doctor of Business Administration Programs

marketing online, marketing online, marketing managers, online DBA in Marketing, marketing degrees, DBA in marketing, marketing PhD

Should You Pursue a Ph.D. in Marketing Online?

Taking a step this big can be concerning. And you might wonder if a marketing doctoral degree is worth it. Pursuing a Ph.D. in marketing is not for everyone. It’s a big commitment, both in terms of time and money. You’ll need to be willing to put in long hours of research and writing. And you may have to sacrifice other aspects of your life to do so.

However, an online doctorate marketing program will allow you unparalleled flexibility. Most Ph.D. online marketing degree programs will require some on-campus components. But they are minimal compared to the on-campus programs. And you will also have the opportunity to study from anywhere in the world. Moreover, you won’t need to relocate to pursue your doctorate. Typically, you will only need to visit campus occasionally during your marketing online program. And in some cases, there are no required residencies at all to earn an online doctorate.

An online marketing Doctor of Business Administration or Ph.D. can also save you money. You won’t need to worry about expenses like student housing. And you’ll save on commuting as well. Plus, many online marketing programs offer in-state tuition rates no matter where you live. Additionally, online marketing students don’t have to abandon their careers to attend a Ph.D. program. Instead, you can earn your marketing doctorate around your full-time job. This way, you can continue earning while pursuing your doctoral degree. 

Best Marketing Doctorate Online Programs

Methodology for the best online doctoral programs in marketing.

business administration, marketing online program, online marketing doctorate, online DBA in Marketing, marketing degrees

Unfortunately, there are not a lot of online PhDs in Marketing that fit our school rankings criteria. Many of the doctoral programs are DBAs with Specializations in Marketing. Online DBA programs have a similar curriculum as a Ph.D. in Marketing. The primary difference is that they are more practical rather than theoretical.  If you want a career in academia, a PhD in marketing program is likely the best option for you. But if you want to expand your professional horizons within the industry, a DBA will give you the tools to do so. 

Despite the lack of online PhD marketing programs, we still found some great colleges for these school rankings. This article features the top 10 schools with a DBA or PhD in Marketing. Each school was required to meet some essential criteria. For example, the schools must be US-based, non-profit institutions. And each college must be properly accredited. Once we had our list, we ranked each of the online schools based on the following factors:

Graduate Tuition/Fees

  • Less than $10,000/year – 3 Points
  • $10,001-$20,000/year – 2 Points
  • More than $20,000/year – 1 Point

Applicants Admitted

  • Less than 25 percent – 1 Point
  • 25 percent to 50 percent – 2 Points
  • More than 50 percent – 3 Points

Graduation Rate

  • 50 percent or Greater – 3 Points
  • 25 percent-49 percent – 2 Points

Our information came from NCES College Navigator . Please note that rates are based on in-state graduate tuition per academic year. For out-of-state and remote PhD students, tuition and fees can vary. In the case of a tie, the school with the lowest tuition costs ranked the highest. No schools are ever given preferential treatment of any kind. 

If you’re passionate about marketing and willing to put in the work, a PhD in marketing can be a rewarding experience. Next, we’ll take a deeper look at the best online PhD in marketing programs. 

See Also: The Complete Guide to Online PhD and Doctorate Programs

Ranking The Best Online Marketing PhD Programs

California miramar university.

San Diego, California

Doctor of Business Administration in Marketing

CMU, marketing online, DBA in marketing, marketing PhD, online PhD, online DBA in Marketing, marketing degrees

California Miramar University features a DBA in Marketing online. CMU is an accredited online university. Courses are delivered through Moodle, the school’s online Learning Management System. All course materials and resources for this DBA are 100 percent online. And no campus visits are required. In addition, coursework is asynchronous. So you can study and interact with your business professors and peers when it is most convenient. Some of the courses in the marketing online program include:

  • Advanced Marketing
  • Consumer Behavior 
  • Strategic Marketing Management
  • Advanced Analytical Market Research
  • Marketing Communications and Experiential Marketing
  • Pricing Theory and Practices 
  • Organizational Theory and Corporate Governance
  • Modern Business-Driven Technologies and E-commerce
  • Organizational Change Management and Business Ethics

These courses enhance students’ skills and provide them with new knowledge. They will learn to effectively manage the entire scope of the product life cycle. And they will be able to do this ethically, legally, and strategically.

All online students can access the school’s library system and information network. Plus, marketing students will be supported by the whole CMU team. In addition, financial aid, scholarships, and military discounts are available for online doctorate students. 

Accreditation: Distance Education Accrediting Commission 

Marketing Ph.D. Tuition: $7,020

Liberty University

Lynchburg, Virginia

Doctor of Business Administration in Marketing 

Liberty University,marketing online, DBA in marketing, marketing PhD, online PhD, online DBA in Marketing, marketing degrees

Liberty University features a DBA in Marketing online. This is one of the most flexible degrees in this ranking. The program is ACBSP accredited and offered through Liberty’s School of Business. There are no campus visits required. However, online students can come to campus for optional intensives if they choose to do so. You will need 60 credits to graduate. And you can transfer in up to 50% of the doctorate degree total. 

You can earn this DBA in Marketing in as little as three years. With transfer credits, motivated students may be able to complete the program faster. However, you can also go at your own pace and take longer. This allows you to complete your studies around your career and other obligations. Classes for this doctoral degree are each eight weeks long. You will take business courses as well as those related to marketing. Some of the courses in the online doctor of marketing may include:

  • Supply Chain Management 
  • Marketing for Competitive Advantage
  • Managing Human Resources 
  • Strategy Formulation & Strategic Thinking 
  • Strategic Marketing Management 
  • Marketing Promotions 
  • Market Research
  • Brand Management

There are several start dates throughout the year, so you can get started on your marketing doctorate right away. Online students will learn from professors with years of experience in marketing and business. Classes are asynchronous. So you can access your course materials 24/7 whenever it is convenient for you. Liberty also offers a convenient master’s degree in marketing online . 

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Marketing Ph.D. Tuition: $7,893

Kennesaw State University

Kennesaw, Georgia

Ph.D. in Business Administration With a Concentration in Marketing

KSU, marketing online, marketing managers, DBA in marketing, marketing PhD, online PhD, online DBA

KSU features a hybrid Ph.D. in Business Administration with a Marketing Concentration. It is offered through the Coles College of Business. This innovative program is AACSB-accredited and highly flexible. Most of the coursework is online. However, online students must come to campus each month for weekend residencies. The 48-credit program takes about three to five years to complete. Some of the areas of study for this marketing doctorate include:

  • Business-To-Business Marketing
  • Communication: Advertising and Promotion
  • Marketing and Consumer Behavior
  • Consumer Privacy
  • Emerging Markets
  • International Marketing
  • New Product and Technology Adoption
  • Sales Management
  • Sales Performance
  • Sustainability

This online program prepares candidates for leadership roles in teaching, research, and academia. Courses are taught by KSU’s well-published faculty. All marketing students in this program must complete a research-based dissertation. However, they can choose from a two-paper dissertation or a longer single-essay dissertation. 

Prospective PhD students can attend in-person workshops, information sessions, and more. This will allow them to interact with students currently enrolled in the program. And it will enable them to see if it is a good fit before they fully commit. Marketing students can only enter the program in the Fall semester. 

Marketing Ph.D. Tuition: $5,328

University of Maryland

College Park, Maryland

UMCG, marketing online, DBA in marketing, marketing PhD, online PhD, online DBA

The University of Maryland features a Marketing DBA. It is offered through the Smith School of Business and the UM Global Campus. This 54-credit program can be completed in as little as three years. DBA students are required to attend a two-day residency each term. However, beyond that, the coursework is entirely online. Marketing students will work with a faculty mentor to design a program to meet their goals. Some of the areas of research include:

  • Marketing Analytics
  • Digital/Technology Marketing
  • E-Commerce and Retail Management
  • Social Media Strategies
  • Customer Relationship Management
  • Brand and Product Management
  • Advertising and Marketing Communications
  • New Product Development and Innovations

Students take this program as a cohort. This structure promotes interactive partnerships among faculty and students. And it serves as a network for lifelong learning. Students also benefit from exposure to global perspectives. And they have the opportunity to collaborate with classmates from all over the world. 

The Marketing DBA is a terminal degree designed for experienced professionals. Students in this online program will gain leadership skills and high-level knowledge for executive roles in marketing. UMA also offers an excellent master’s degree program in marketing . 

Accreditation: Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools

Marketing Ph.D. Tuition: $16,238

Grand Canyon University

Phoenix, Arizona

Doctor Of Business Administration in Marketing

GCU, marketing online, marketing managers, DBA in marketing, marketing PhD, online PhD, online DBA

Grand Canyon University features two DBA in Marketing online programs. The first is a DBA in Marketing that focuses on Quantitative Research. The second is a DBA in Marketing that focuses on Qualitative Research. Choosing the right one for you will depend on your interests and goals. 

In the Quantitative program, students analyze events by interpreting numeric data. The Qualitative program offers insight into how and why people think and behave. Some of the online courses for this marketing doctoral program may include:

  • Emerging Issues in Financial Management
  • The History and Philosophy of Marketing
  • Foundations of Research Design
  • Digital Technology and Consumer Behavior
  • Data-Driven Marketing Management
  • Complexity of Marketing
  • Data Collection and Management

Students will need to participate in two or three five-day residencies. These take place on the GCU campus in Phoenix. They allow doctoral students to benefit from networking opportunities with other business leaders and marketing professionals. 

The online DBA programs both require 60 credits. Grand Canyon University allows students to transfer in up to nine of them. Coursework is primarily asynchronous. This will enable you to fit your studies around your busy schedule. Online doctoral students have many resources to help them succeed. They can access academic counseling, technical support, eBooks, and more. Financial aid and scholarships are available. 

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Marketing Ph.D. Tuition: $10,655

National University

Doctor of business administration in strategic marketing.

National University, marketing online, DBA in marketing, marketing PhD, online PhD, online DBA

National University features a 100% online DBA in Strategic Marketing. No residencies or campus visits are required to complete the program. This DBA provides high-level training for leadership business roles. The marketing specialization focuses on advanced digital marketing tools and real-world global strategies. With this online program, you can earn your DBA in Marketing in about 64 months. Courses are eight weeks long. Some of them include:

  • Business Strategy and Innovation
  • Ethics in Business
  • Quantitative Research Design and Methodology
  • Qualitative Research Design and Methodology
  • Marketing Change Leadership
  • Marketing Economics Innovation
  • Marketing Science
  • Strategic Marketing Communication
  • Global Product Strategy

Students can also opt to pursue a Ph.D. in Business with a Specialization in Strategic Marketing . This online program focuses on research-based leadership strategies. Students gain the skills to lead dynamic marketing campaigns ethically and effectively. 

The Ph.D. also has no residency requirements. This 60-credit program can be completed in about 40 months. And there is a new start date every Monday, so you can begin your doctoral degree immediately. 

The coursework is asynchronous. So students can complete their studies at their own pace. No group projects are involved. Scholarships and financial aid may be available. The programs are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. NU also offers a top-ranked master’s degree program in marketing. It’s an online MBA with a Specialization in Marketing.

Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission

Marketing Ph.D. Tuition: $15,912

Pace University

New York, New York

Doctor of Professional Studies in Business: Marketing Specialization

Pace Unviersity, marketing online, DBA in marketing, marketing PhD, online DBA

Pace University features a hybrid Doctor of Professional Studies in Business. Students can further customize the doctoral degree with an optional Marketing Specialization. The program is offered through the Lubin School of Business. And it is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. It is designed to help you achieve your professional goals in academia or the workplace. 

Coursework is flexible and convenient. And you can complete your assignments on your own time. The program can be completed in three to five years. Students move through the program as a cohort. The program has an excellent selection of marketing electives. And that makes it one of the best programs in our school ranking. Some of the courses may include:

  • Marketing Management
  • Consumer Research
  • Consumer and Organization Buying Behavior 
  • Market Measurement and Forecasting 
  • Business Research and Survey Methods 
  • Advertising and Sales Promotion 
  • Advertising Campaign and Media Strategy 
  • New Product Planning and Development
  • International Marketing 
  • Advanced Case Studies in Marketing Management 
  • Marketing of Services
  • Marketing of Financial Services 
  • Entrepreneurial Marketing 
  • Business-to-Business Marketing 
  • Interactive and Direct Marketing 
  • Customer Relationship Management 
  • Strategic Marketing Planning

Students in this online program will need to attend doctoral seminars 10 Fridays each year. These are mandatory and make up 20 percent of your overall grade. The campus is located in New York City near Wall Street. These in-person experiences will allow you to collaborate with your cohort and instructors. Additionally, students will have many opportunities to meet with their cohort online. During these times, you can exchange viewpoints and insights and discuss your assignments. 

All doctoral candidates complete a six-credit, two-semester, independent-study publishing tutorial sequence. This is completed under the supervision of a Lubin faculty member. Candidates for this Ph.D. marketing online program will conduct research and develop expertise on a topic of their choice. 

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Marketing Ph.D. Tuition: $25,560

Keiser University

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Keiser University, marketing online, DBA in marketing, marketing PhD, online DBA

Keiser University features an online DBA with a specialization in Marketing. This program is for experienced business professionals and future members of academia. Students will learn advanced leadership and decision-making skills. And there is a strong focus on the global business environment. The DBA program features three specializations. These include Marketing, Management, or Global Business. For the Marketing Specialization, students will take courses like:

  • Global Business
  • Marketing Management 
  • Strategic Decision-Making for Managers 
  • Methods and Analysis of Quantitative Research
  • Survey Research Methods
  • Business Research and Publication 
  • Emerging Issues in Marketing 
  • Seminar in Global Marketing
  • Seminar in Marketing Models and Theory 
  • Consumer Behavior Theory and Practice 

Students in this program will need to come to campus for two residencies. The first takes place during the first year. The second occurs prior to taking the comprehensive exam. A dissertation is required. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. 

The program requires 60 graduate semester credit hours. It can be completed in 24 to 42 months. The time for completion depends on individual factors. However, students can transfer in up to 18 credits toward this doctoral degree. Courses are all eight weeks in length. And they are taught by the same world-class faculty that teaches on campus. 

Marketing Ph.D. Tuition: $30,032

Alliant International University

Doctor of business administration with a specialization in marketing.

AIU, marketing online, marketing managers, DBA in marketing, marketing PhD, online DBA

Alliant International University features an online DBA with a Specialization in Marketing. It is offered through the California School of Management and Leadership. And it is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. With this program, you can earn your DBA in as little as three years. However, you can also take longer if you want to. Courses are scheduled in eight-week term formats. And students take one or two courses per term. Some of the courses may include:

  • Qualitative Research Methods
  • Contemporary Readings in Marketing
  • Marketing Research and Data Analytics
  • Organizational Behavior and Development
  • Creating Change and Innovation
  • Leadership of Cross-Cultural and International Management
  • Critical Issues in Business Management

The marketing specialization provides an overview of marketing across a variety of areas. You will learn how marketing is used in organizational strategy. You will experience real-world applications of marketing and business. And you will participate in internships or experiential projects. These experiences will help you with your professional growth. 

Alliant has an impressive student-to-faculty ratio of 5 to 1. Additionally, class sizes are small. So students get focused attention from their professors. All students will complete a dissertation. For this, candidates will be paired with a faculty mentor. Their mentor will guide them through the entire dissertation process. Financial aid and scholarship opportunities are available for this DBA program. 

Baker College

Owosso, Michigan

Doctor of Business Administration with a Specialization in Marketing

Baker College, marketing online, marketing managers, DBA in marketing, marketing PhD, online DBA

Baker College offers an online Doctor of Business Administration. Students in this program can design their own specialized field of study. In this case, a candidate would specialize in marketing. During the first year, they will complete the prescribed content. In the second year, they move to independent research focused on their area of interest. 

The program requires a total of 60 credits and can be completed in just three and a half years. You will complete doctoral core classes and those related to your specialty. Some of the courses may include:

  • Leadership Theory and Ethics
  • Global Financial Economy
  • Organizational Theory and Behavior
  • Digital Marketing 
  • Multichannel Selling 
  • Advanced Marketing Research 
  • Marketing for Entrepreneurial Ventures 
  • Marketing Strategy and Design

Students will need to attend at least one professional residency. This takes place during the first or second year. They will also complete a research-based dissertation. Doctor of Business Administration students will gain the knowledge to solve problems at the highest level of business. And they will graduate with the skills to move into high-level roles. They will also be equipped to begin a career in academia. 

marketing online, business administration, online marketing doctorate, marketing managers, DBA in marketing, online DBA, marketing PhD

What Is a Marketing Degree?

Marketing is the process of promoting and selling a business or service. And it’s a huge component of the business field. Marketing includes market research, advertising, and so much more. However, from a more practical standpoint, marketing is a study of relationships. Marketers are responsible for creating positive relationships between customers and businesses. 

A marketing degree is a program designed to prepare you for all that. Marketing is a fast-paced field because consumers are constantly changing. It takes creativity, flexibility, and strong skills in problem-solving. When you earn a marketing degree, you’ll develop those crucial skills and gain so much more along the way.

There are different types of marketing degrees. You can study marketing at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. You can even take some marketing business courses at the associate level. However, most entry-level jobs will require at least a bachelor’s in marketing. You can also pursue an undergraduate degree in a related field to lay the groundwork for graduate study in marketing. 

At the graduate level, a Master’s in Business Administration program. is the primary option. You can take a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in marketing. Some online schools may also offer a Master of Science in Marketing, but the MBA is more widely available. 

There are also PhDs in Marketing. These programs go into marketing on a much deeper level. Students learn advanced business research methods. And they spend a lot of time on their own areas of interest. These programs are geared more toward those wanting a research or academic career. But again, the Doctor of Business Administration seems to be offered at most institutions. A Doctor of Business Administration in Marketing prepares you for advanced careers in the field. 

What Does a Marketing Degree Teach You?

Since marketing is such a huge discipline, a marketing degree has much to teach you. In an undergraduate marketing program, the curriculum will give you a broad overview of business. And it will cover the core principles of marketing. You can use this degree to find an entry-level marketing position. But it can also be an excellent foundation for graduate study. It all depends on your interests and professional goals. Some of the core marketing classes in online DBA programs may include:

  • Business-to-Business Marketing
  • Consumer Behavior
  • Macroeconomics
  • Managerial Communications
  • Digital Marketing
  • Principles of Finance
  • Principles of International Business
  • Principles of Management
  • Principles of Marketing
  • Supply Chain Management
  • Advanced Business Research Methods
  • Marketing Strategy

As you advance academically, the courses get more in-depth. And they are tailored toward more specific aspects of marketing. 

online DBA, business administration, online marketing doctorate , DBA in marketing, marketing PhD

How to Get a PhD in Marketing Degree

Getting a PhD in marketing requires dedication, hard work, and perseverance. Such online programs are rigorous and challenging. But if you are determined to earn your doctorate degree, you can do it! Here are the general steps to earning a Ph.D. or Doctor of Business Administration in Marketing online.

Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

The first step to getting a Ph.D. in marketing is to earn a bachelor’s degree. You could pursue a bachelor’s degree in marketing, of course. But you can also look into degrees in related fields. These may include business, accounting, business management, economics, or finance. You will need a strong academic background in these areas. This will help you prepare for the rigorous coursework and research required for a Doctor of Business Administration.

There are numerous bachelor’s marketing programs both on campus and online. So this step is relatively easy. 

Gain Work Experience

Many Ph.D. programs prefer candidates with some work experience in the field of marketing. This may be in the form of internships, entry-level roles, or other relevant experience.

Research Programs

Research online doctoral programs in marketing. Then, identify those that align with your interests and career goals. Look for programs that have expert faculty and funding opportunities. The best marketing Ph.D. programs also have a good track record of job placement after graduation.

Apply to Programs

Once you have a list of the top online doctoral marketing programs that interest you, you are ready to apply. You will need to carefully and thoroughly submit your application materials. These usually include transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.

Complete Coursework

Once accepted into a doctoral program, you must complete the required coursework. You will also likely have electives to choose from. Your courses will prepare you to conduct independent research in your area of interest.

Pass Comprehensive Exams

After completing coursework, you will need to pass comprehensive exams. These exams will test your knowledge of marketing theory and research methods.

Conduct Research

The bulk of a doctoral online marketing program involves research. This independent research will be in your area of interest. And it will culminate in a dissertation. Your dissertation demonstrates your mastery of the subject. And it contributes new knowledge to the field.

Defend Dissertation

Once your dissertation is complete, you will need to defend it before a committee of faculty members. This tests your ability to articulate your findings and defend your conclusions.

Obtain Degree

Once you have successfully defended your dissertation, you will be awarded your degree. 

What Can You Do With a Marketing Degree?

online DBA, business administration, online marketing doctorate, marketing managers, DBA in marketing, marketing PhD

Marketing is all about promoting products and services. But a lot of roles fall under that umbrella. As a result, there are numerous marketing careers to pursue with a doctorate in marketing online. All businesses need people who are skilled in various areas of marketing. Some common job titles in the field include:

  • Brand Manager
  • Content Marketing Producer
  • Brand Strategist
  • Client Strategist
  • Data Scientist
  • Product Manager
  • Marketing Manager
  • Research Analyst
  • Media Planner
  • Promotions Coordinator
  • SEO Manager
  • Director of Internet Marketing
  • Social Media Coordinator
  • Digital Marketing Specialist
  • Director of Web Analytics

What Tasks Are Involved in a High-Level Marketing Role?

With a doctoral degree in marketing, you’ll be qualified to perform a wide range of tasks. These will depend on the company and your position. However, here are some typical tasks involved in a high-level marketing role:

  • Conducting market research to identify customer needs, preferences, and trends.
  • Analyzing and interpreting market data to inform marketing decisions.
  • Developing and implementing marketing strategies and plans to achieve business objectives.
  • Collaborating with other departments to ensure marketing efforts align with overall business goals.
  • Developing and managing marketing budgets and resources.
  • Managing and leading marketing teams, including hiring, training, and performance management.
  • Creating and managing marketing campaigns across multiple channels. This includes digital, social media, print, and more.
  • Developing and managing relationships with agencies, vendors, and media outlets.
  • Developing and managing marketing automation and CRM systems.
  • Developing and implementing brand positioning and messaging.
  • Managing product launches and go-to-market strategies.
  • Measuring and analyzing marketing performance and ROI and making data-driven decisions.

What Can I Do With a Doctorate or PhD in Marketing?

online DBA, business administration, marketing doctorate online, marketing managers, DBA in marketing, marketing PhD

A PhD in Marketing is the academic apex. And it is a sign of years of dedicated study and professional experience. A doctorate in marketing opens you up to an incredible range of opportunities. You’re essentially an expert because you hold the highest level of education one can obtain. As a result, many who have earned their PhD in Marketing opt to work in an educational setting.

Most colleges require their tenure-track professors to hold PhDs in their respective fields. However, there are other avenues you could pursue in academia. With that said, it’s worth noting that marketing professors are some of the highest-paid in education. That’s because the field is continually evolving and growing. So education plays a massive role in that. You could also get an even higher-level job at a university as a department leader or program director.

If you’re not interested in working in education, that’s okay. There are even more opportunities for marketers in the business world. Marketing experts are very desirable to employers. The skills they have can put businesses ahead of the curve. 

A common position for those with a Doctor of Business Administration in Marketing is that of a Market Research Analyst. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the need for these professionals will increase by 19% over the next decade. That’s much higher than the average for all other occupations. As an analyst, you gather data about specific populations and their purchasing behavior and habits. You then use that information to provide industry guidance. Engineering, medicine, management, finance, and government rely heavily on such research. So the demand is growing for those well-equipped to handle this role.

With a doctorate in marketing, you could also land yourself a position as a top executive. Chief Marketing Officers lead broad marketing and sales teams. They are responsible for overseeing all the marketing, sales, and advertising for a particular business. They use their expertise to develop effective teams and strategies. And their skills impact the organizations they work for positively. 

Do you want to ensure you’re prepared for the professional marketing role you desire? Be sure to tailor your academic journey to those goals. Work closely with your advisor to select an appropriate plan of study. Explore electives to bolster your skills. Consider taking internships that give you direct field experience. The more equipped you are to handle the specific tasks of a role, the more desirable you’ll be as a candidate.

How Much Can You Make With a DBA or PhD Marketing Degree?

Marketing is a field that is known to pay very well. However, it is essential to keep in mind that there are a lot of different factors that contribute to your salary. These can include your education, work experience, and geographic location, among other things.

The higher your education is, the higher your salary tends to be. Those with a doctorate in marketing have the skills and experience needed for higher-level positions. Here’s a list of some of the highest-paying careers you could hold with a marketing degree and their average salary:

Ph.D. in Marketing Salary Averages

Figures are taken from Glassdoor , PayScale , Salary Explorer, and BLS .

This concludes our ranking of the top marketing Ph.D. programs.

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The Marketing Ph.D. program is a research-intensive full-time course of study designed to place graduates in marketing faculty positions at research-oriented universities. The four to five-year Ph.D. program involves forty-two credit hours of coursework plus intensive research activity, including working on your dissertation and writing papers for publication in major refereed academic journals such as Journal of Marketing Research , Journal of Consumer Research , Journal of Marketing , Marketing Science , and Management Science .

The Marketing faculty ( click here for more information about our faculty and their publications ) is deeply involved in each stage of our doctoral students’ academic lives. Throughout the program, each student receives opportunities to present work at workshops or conferences, attend regular department seminar series, develop speaking and writing skills, and receive regular feedback from the faculty.

Qualifications for our program are (1) motivation to undertake social science research and (2) the ability to do so, as demonstrated by a high score on the GMAT or GRE, a strong academic record, and endorsement from former professors. We review every application and look at each applicant as an individual. Accepted doctoral students are hired as Research or Teaching Assistants for 20 hours a week and receive competitive year-round stipends . The Department of Marketing and Entrepreneurship provides a laptop or desktop for new students and additional funding for students presenting papers at national conferences.

We encourage our students to seek placements as professors at research-oriented universities, and they do. See here for recent placements and here for achievements.

We want our program to be stimulating, enjoyable, and a bonding experience with other Ph.D. students. New students get a great deal of help from those who have been in the program, and are expected to offer similar help to other new students down the road.

As faculty members, we treat our Ph.D. students like colleagues. And you are.

I encourage you to carefully go through our extensive FAQs page , which should help answer most frequently asked questions about our program and the application process.

Professor Seshadri Tirunillai Marketing Ph.D. Program Coordinator Department of Marketing and Entrepreneurship Bauer College of Business University of Houston

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Management PhD, MPhil - Marketing, Innovation, Strategy and Operations

University of leicester.

The School of Business offers supervision for the degrees of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) - full-time campus based, part-time campus based Read more...

  • 6 years Distance without attendance degree: £3,942 per year (UK)
  • 3 years Full time degree: £4,786 per year (UK)
  • 6 years Part time degree: £2,393 per year (UK)

Marketing PhDs and MPhils (Distance Learning)

University of portsmouth.

If you're ready to take your existing expertise in Marketing into a postgraduate research degree qualification, Portsmouth is the perfect Read more...

  • 6 years Distance without attendance degree: £2,356 per year (UK)

Journalism and PR PhD

University of sunderland.

A PhD is “probably the most internationally transferable qualification” according to the Higher Education Policy Institute. You will Read more...

  • 6 years Distance without attendance degree: £3,681 per year (UK)
  • 4 years Distance without attendance degree: £3,681 per year (UK)
  • 4 years Full time degree: £4,500 per year (UK)
  • 6 years Part time degree: £3,681 per year (UK)

Management, Marketing and People PhD

London south bank university.

LSBU Business School has a growing research degree programme, with an emphasis on part-time study by students who are simultaneously Read more...

  • 6 years Distance without attendance degree: £4,820 per year (UK)
  • 3 years Full time degree: £4,820 per year (UK)
  • 5 years Part time degree: £2,892 per year (UK)

Course type:

  • Distance learning PhD
  • Full time PhD
  • Part time PhD

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Online marketing for beginners: 10 paid and free courses to start with

Smiling young African female influencer doing a vlog post at home

In today’s digital marketplace, personalization is king. Hubspot’s The State of Marketing 2024 report underscores this, revealing that 75% of marketers credit personalized experiences with boosting sales and customer loyalty. This strategic focus is reshaping companies’ online narratives, directly influencing a return on investment (ROI) and growth trajectories.

The digital realm demands a deep understanding of consumer behavior, market trends, and keeping up with technological trends and advancements. For those carving out a career in digital or online marketing, you’re in an era where science meets creativity. 

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UNC Kenan-Flagler’s top-ranked online MBA

Dr. Jonah Berger, a Wharton School professor at the University of Pennsylvania and bestselling author of books like Magic Words and The Catalyst , views the right digital marketing course as a critical piece in the puzzle of success.

“If you already have your product, a class can teach you how to get it to the right customers,” he asserts. Berger emphasizes the versatility of digital marketing education, noting that it can guide entrepreneurs in everything from product design to startup selection.

He advises prospective students to first identify their needs and desired outcomes before choosing a course. “The more that courses help you address a particular tactical need you have, the better off you’re going to be,” he explains. He encourages focusing on “modern marketing” trends such as customer centricity, highlighting the shift towards prioritizing the customer’s perspective over the product or service.

For Berger, truly successful digital marketing lies in “the marriage of data science and behavioral science.” He stresses the importance of understanding customer decision-making while leveraging data for deeper insights. This approach is paramount in a landscape dominated by search engines, social media, and omni-channel marketing strategies.

For those interested in working in the online marketing industry, taking a course can be an effective way to build a solid foundation. Fortune compiled a list of both free and paid online marketing courses you can take on your home computer to help you add the skill to your digital toolbox. 

5 free online marketing courses

Enrolling in a free course can give you the necessary skills to get started without breaking the bank. These five free online courses teach digital marketing at an introductory level. Each varies on program length but offers generalized coursework. The list is in alphabetical order.

1. CareerFoundry: Digital Marketing Program

This one is for people who don’t have a lot of time but still want to dip their toes in the digital marketing waters. To figure out if digital marketing is right for you, CareerFoundry can send you a free five-day short course to your email inbox. Each lesson takes around 15 minutes, offering barebones instruction to the world of digital marketing and making a career change. It’s worth noting that the content you receive is the beginning lessons of a much more robust, four to seven-month long, $6,900 immersive, should you want to opt for the paid version. 

2. Google: Fundamentals of Digital Marketing

This 40-hour course, offered by one of the most popular search engine companies, teaches digital marketing at an entry-level . The 24-module class, accredited by the Interactive Advertising Bureau Europe and The Open University, contains hands-on exercises.

Tutorials include topics like making it easy to find a business on the internet and reaching customers through email and video. After passing each tutorial, the course offers one final assessment, and after taking and passing that, you will receive a sharable award to add to your LinkedIn profile.

3. Meta: Blueprint

Facebook’s parent company, Meta, offers 36 free courses in its Blueprint program . The program aims to give learners fast, self-guided digital marketing walkthroughs and training on sites like Facebook, Messenger, Instagram, and WhatsApp. Topics range from bringing your business online and establishing marketing goals to attracting an audience and making creative Instagram Stories. 

4. Simplilearn: Digital Marketing Strategy

This free course by Simplilearn consists of seven main modules, each containing a self-paced string of video lessons. It aims to provide learners with an introduction to the digital marketing landscape. 

In two hours, you will learn about customer segmentation and persona, plus you’ll learn how to conduct market research and create a marketing calendar. After each chapter, there is a knowledge check, and after completing the class, you will receive a certificate of completion. According to the site, more than 25,000 people have enrolled in this course.

5. Udemy: Marketing on Instagram 

This introductory course from Three Sixty Academy , offered on the Udemy platform, teaches learners the fundamentals of Instagram marketing and how to increase your follower base and maximize ROI. The course consists of nine tutorials over the course of 40 minutes. According to the site, more than 30,000 students have enrolled in this course. 

5 paid online marketing courses

Taking paid courses can be an effective way to learn marketing concepts and practical applications. By paying for a course, you can access comprehensive content and detailed explanations in a structured learning environment. This can help you gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter and improve your skills. Courses are listed in alphabetical order.

1. Coursera: Introduction to Digital Marketing

Coursera has a beginner-level course that lasts for around nine hours and is taught by Steve Fritzenkotter, a continuing education instructor from the University of California, Irvine. The course covers everything from search engine marketing and two-way communication with customers to storytelling and reputation management. 

According to the site, it’s free to start, but after a seven-day trial period, you’ll be required to pay $49 monthly. The subscription gives you access to all of the lectures, assignments, knowledge checks, discussion forums, and even a certification of completion. Lastly, the course has more than 10,500 enrollees. 

2. eCornell: Assessing Opportunities in Paid Digital Media

eCornell’s online paid media course covers the basics of search engine marketing, email marketing, and video marketing through a paid lens. The course tackles topics like social media and mobile ads and will guide you through the process of drafting a paid media marketing plan. 

This two-week, fully online, instructor-led course is targeted towards marketing managers who want to understand the role digital marketing plays in an organization. The course is priced at $1,199 and is part of eCornell’s Digital Marketing program, which is priced at $3,699 and includes four courses. After completing the entire program, you will have earned a certificate.

3. Harvard Business School: Digital Marketing Strategy

Harvard Business School Online’s digital marketing course is seven weeks long, self-paced, and contains six modules. The key concepts taught are the evolution of marketing, different approaches to budget allocation, and customer engagement techniques like storytelling and personalization. 

The featured exercises include building a practice budget, calculating a customer’s lifetime value, and advising a real-life company on its marketing plan. The course costs $1,750, and the application is free, but you must be at least 18 years old to apply. 

4. LinkedIn Learning: Advance as a Digital Marketing Specialist

LinkedIn Learning’s digital marketing career path is a comprehensive program with nine courses. Each one is more than ten hours long and is designed to teach learners how to create effective customer touchpoints, develop content strategies, and gain expertise in SEO and analytics. Upon completing the program, students receive a certificate that can be added to their LinkedIn profile.

The lectures are delivered by industry experts Brad Batesole, who teaches part-time at California State University Northridge, and Marta Dapena-Baron, a former marketing lecturer at the University of Michigan and Cornell University.

To access this course path, users must subscribe to the service. The subscription costs $379.88 per seat per year, with a two-seat minimum requirement for teams.

5. Udemy: The Complete Digital Marketing Course—12 Courses in 1 

This $199.99 course offered by Udemy teaches students how to master digital marketing strategy and the fundamentals of social media, SEO, YouTube, email, X (formerly Twitter), Quora, and Facebook marketing. Taught in 17 languages over 22.5 hours of videos and articles, it also teaches you copywriting, making a website, and performing market research. 

According to the site, the course comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, and it caters to three target audiences: individuals who wish to enhance their skills for job opportunities, website owners looking to boost their traffic and sales, and pre-launch business owners who are unsure where to begin.

Things to consider before enrolling in an online marketing course

If there’s one takeaway from this article, it’s that there are a lot of options in terms of the kinds of courses you can take. An overwhelming number of options can lead to analysis paralysis, so it’s important to remember that while some courses might sound great, they might not give you the exact results you’re looking for. 

Before spending your hard-earned cash or wasting your time with any marketing course, consider these factors:

  • Hands-on practice : According to a report by the U.S. Department of Education ,  the term “hands-on approach” refers to guided instruction through experience. “It’s one thing to hear somebody say something. It can be quite another to make sure you can apply that thing,” Berger says. “It’s important to learn from others, but you need to make sure you can apply those learnings as well.” 
  • Reviews : Berger says that word of mouth is another powerful tool in determining what you should spend your money and time on. “When I am making a tough decision, I turn to others—either looking at reviews online or talking with people offline—to understand what other people think and help make better decisions.” Sites like Udemy and Simplilearn provide ratings on the front pages of courses. 

So, what is the best online marketing course to take?

The best online marketing course is the one that best suits your needs. While you can scroll through thousands of TikTok and YouTube videos to pick up key information, a structured course can give you the backbone you need to improve your digital marketing skills. 

Whether you want to learn for free or for money, there’s an option for everyone. But if you’re still on the fence about taking an online marketing course, hear Berger’s advice: 

“Marketing touches almost everything we do—we all have a customer. Brand managers sell products, B2B companies sell services, leaders sell ideas, doctors convince patients to take medicine, lawyers try to convince their clients to take action, and employees try to convince their bosses.”

He explains that whether we interface with our customers, spouses, or children, we aim to understand them and meet them where they are. “It’s about understanding who you’re interacting with and delivering them value.” If that sounds interesting to you, then digital marketing could be a good career path. 

Fortune outlined the path you need to take to become a digital marketer , and we also compiled a list of 16 entrepreneurial classes you can take online now .

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phd in marketing distance learning

Marketing Analytics

Partially Online

The Master of Science in Marketing Analytics provides you with both broad and deep technical skills in Marketing Analytics as marketing positions continue to evolve into a technical role within an organization.

The Marketing Analytics Master's degree emphasizes the quantitative and analytical side of marketing managerial decision-making and provides breadth of coverage to include advanced data management and other business analytics foundations. The degree thoroughly trains you in use of business analytics to power data-driven, customer-centric decisions. This program is also offered as a 4+1 accelerated program.

Through our curriculum, you will acquire techniques that improve marketing decisions. This program is designed to provide a deep dive into advanced marketing analytics topics (advanced tools and analyses, brand management, digital marketing, sales forecasting) as well as a wide coverage of business analytics space: advanced business data management, programming for data science, latest platforms, data visualization, etc. with some room for customization to fit your individual needs. The curriculum covers a wide range of technologies and tools, including R, Python, Tableau, IBM SPSS Statistics, ForecastX, SQL, Machine Learning and AI using AWS and Google platforms, as well as digital marketing tools such as Google Analytics and SEO and SEM programs.

This program is a STEM designated degree program, which offers additional benefits for students, including potential grant funded opportunities and, for international students, extended OPT study options.

We are currently accepting applications for Fall 2024 term . For detailed information about the curriculum please refer to the graduate catalog and a sample plan of study .

  • Graduate Student Admissions
  • Course Requirements (Catalog)
  • Meet Our Faculty
  • Our Community

Point of Pride

The Marketing Analytics program is the second of its kind in Illinois and one of only 16 in the nation.

Graduate Advisor

Dr. Chiharu Ishida-Lambert (309) 438-3261 State Farm Hall of Business 323

Schedule a Visit

Discover what life as an Illinois State graduate student is like.

How to Apply

University admission requirements.

A student applying to this program must:

  • have earned a four-year bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a college or university that is accredited by the appropriate regional accrediting association, or do so within one academic year
  • present unofficial transcripts from each college or university other than Illinois State at which graduate, undergraduate, or non-degree credit was earned. The unofficial transcript should be easily readable and clearly indicate degree(s) awarded, courses and course grades for each term. If accepted, official transcripts can be emailed from the university to [email protected] or mailed in a sealed envelope to: Illinois State University, Graduate School , 209 Hovey Hall, Campus Box 4040, Normal, IL 61790-4040.
  • have had undergraduate training in business and/or have been employed at least one year in a business enterprise.

International students can learn more about specific application requirements by visiting the Office of Admissions.

Additional Program Admission Requirements

To be considered for this program, you must meet the following criteria.

You must have a minimum 3.0 GPA for the last 60 hours of undergraduate work (approximately the junior and senior years) or have a minimum 3.0 GPA for all graduate-level coursework, if applicable.

Please provide an updated resume to the application.

Letters of Recommendation

Submit the names and email addresses of two references for letters of recommendation within the online application.

Submit an essay that includes the following information:

  • Your professional goals and how the marketing analytics degree will help you achieve them
  • An explanation of what you gained professionally and/or personally from the experiences detailed in your resume (1 -2 paragraphs)

GMAT (or GRE scores) are only required if your last 60 hour undergraduate GPA or graduate GPA (minimum of 9 hours) is less than 3.0.

English Proficiency (International Students)

International students must meet the minimum English proficiency scores set by the University: TOEFL score of at least 79, IELTS score of 6.5 band or Duolingo score of 105.

Application Deadlines

  • Fall Semester Term — May 1
  • Spring Semester Term — No spring admission
  • Summer Semester Term — No summer admission

Graduate Assistantships

Graduate assistantships are not offered by the Department of Marketing for this master’s degree program.

The University provides graduate assistantships as a means of financial support. They are intended as a way to facilitate a student's progress to degree while providing important professional development.

Eligibility

To be eligible for an assistantship a student must, generally,

  • be admitted unconditionally as a degree-seeking student into a graduate academic program, or have a minimum of 120 undergraduate hours if in an integrated degree program
  • be in good-standing
  • be enrolled full-time (typically at least 9 credit hours during the fall or spring semesters, or at least 6 hours during the summer session).

Graduate assistants receive

  • monthly wages paid in the form of either a stipend or an hourly wage
  • a waiver for 100% of tuition during a semester of appointment
  • a waiver for up to 12 credit hours of tuition for the summer term immediately following a fall or spring appointment

Costs & Funding

See  Student Accounts  for information on tuition and fees.  Funding  for graduate students is available from several different sources. Students who have been admitted from contiguous states including Iowa, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, and Wisconsin will receive in-state tuition.

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Contact Information

  • 309-438-7261
  • State Farm Hall of Business 352
  • College of Business

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5 Best Digital Marketing Courses That Are Worth Taking in 2024

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Digital marketing is key for businesses that wish to increase brand awareness and draw attention to brands over long periods of time. When effectively done, digital marketing helps “funnel” potential buyers to a purchase. Training to be a digital marketer involves exploring the tools used to analyze customer data, interpreting trending topics with SEO and discovering the strategy behind driving sales.

Interested in a career in digital marketing? There are a variety of ways to enter into digital marketing as a career. For example, search engine optimization is a key part of digital marketing and may lead to a viable career path.

I chose the following digital marketing courses because of their positive reviews from the digital marketing community, their thoroughness and their approachability.

  • Google Digital Marketing & E-commerce Professional Certificate via Coursera: Coursera
  • HubSpot Academy’s Digital Marketing Course: HubSpot Academy
  • Moz Academy SEO Starter Pack: Moz Academy
  • Semrush Academy’s Digital Advertising 101: Semrush Academy
  • Coursera’s Digital Marketing Specialization: Coursera

Best digital marketing courses: Comparison table

Google digital marketing & e-commerce professional certificate via coursera.

Google Digital Marketing & E-Commerce Professional Certificate at Coursera enrollment page.

Google’s digital marketing introduction from Coursera is suitable for beginners, and you’ll emerge from the course with a professional certificate. This course is backed by Google and is completely online. It covers a wide variety of topics, from search engine marketing and converting likes to sales on social media to marketing campaigns and setting up an e-commerce store.

This certification includes multiple courses, which should, together, take about six months to complete at 10 hours per week.

A Coursera subscription costs $59 per month, so the cost will depend on how quickly you complete the course. A six-month learning journey would cost $354.

HubSpot Academy’s Digital Marketing Course

HubSpot Digital Marketing Course page.

HubSpot sells marketing and sales software and also offers free courses for learning digital marketing. This course covers email, SEO, social media, content creation and scheduling, and website advertising. It is particularly suitable for small business owners who have a business plan but are unfamiliar with digital marketing practices. It is taught primarily through video, with a transcript available.

The HubSpot Academy Digital Marketing Course is free. As with most online course materials, it requires an email address to log in.

Moz Academy SEO Starter Pack

Moz Academy SEO Starter course page.

When it comes to SEO, Moz Academy is a good place to start for step-by-step instructions on how to use the right tools for the trade. It provides how-tos for SERP listings and evaluating keywords; in addition, it gives contexts such as how and why pages show up in search results and the history of search algorithms. The third module, Local SEO Fundamentals, focuses on SEO strategies for local businesses.

Moz Academy generally has a good reputation among the digital marketing community in terms of a starting place for beginners. Note, there’s no guarantee the “recent trends in SEO” section will still be recent by the time you reach it since search engines are changing so rapidly.

The complete SEO Starter Pack costs $149.

Semrush Academy’s Digital Advertising 101

Semrush Academy Digital Advertising 101 enrollment page.

Business owners or marketers looking to approach their work from a strategic angle or wanting to focus on advertising may find value in this Semrush Academy course. Along with the basics of how digital advertising works, this course covers measuring how well your campaigns are doing and building solid strategies around your most successful projects. It teaches you an overview of competitor research and how to craft an overall digital advertising strategy.

Semrush Academy’s Digital Advertising 101 is free.

Coursera’s Digital Marketing Specialization

Coursera Digital Marketing Specialization course page.

The Digital Marketing Specialization available on Coursera is taught by faculty members at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. This is a relatively in-depth course, covering the theory and practice of digital marketing, but it may repeat some of the same content on other courses listed here, so choose which one will be the best format for you.

Coursera is generally considered reliable, though some of the same information in this course can be found for free. On the other hand, this specialization is good for people who want a guided path through the practical uses of digital marketing tools. It ends with a hands-on project that involves executing a digital marketing campaign.

A subscription to Coursera costs $59 per month, with a 7-day free trial, so the cost will depend on how long it takes you to complete the course. A four-month learning journey would cost $236.

Are digital marketing courses worth it?

Whether an online digital marketing class is worth the time, effort and money for you depends on your learning style and career goals. Digital marketing courses often provide a “one size fits all” overview instead of focusing on a specific job title or audience. It may be wise to look for free tutorials on YouTube before signing up for a paid class.

Digital marketing changes very quickly — just look at Google’s AI Overviews . Be sure any course you choose is up-to-date or that you can supplement it with contemporary content. Whether you have a professional certification may not matter to employers as much as whether you can show proven results.

Is digital marketing high paying?

As of May 2024, the average salary for a digital marketer in the U.S. was $64,898, according to Indeed. The higher end of the salary range could reach up to $113,442.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics found the annual mean wage of Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists in May 2023 to be $83,190.

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2 Distance Learning PhD Degrees in Marketing Studies Marketing in USA for 2024

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Distance Learning PhD Degrees in Marketing Studies Marketing

Marketing programs may provide students with specific skills and knowledge associated with the identification of target audiences, the creation of pricing strategies, the development of services and products and the implementation of advertising methods to reach the appropriate consumers.

The USA remains the world’s most popular destination for international students. Universities in the US dominate the world rankings and the country also offers a wide variety of exciting study locations. State university systems are partially subsidized by state governments, and may have many campuses spread around the state, with hundreds of thousands of students.

Requirements for the PhD program often involve the student having already obtained a Master’s degree. Additionally, a thesis or dissertation primarily consisting of original academic research must be submitted. In some countries, this work may even need to be defended in front of a panel.

Online learning refers to use of electronic media and information and communication technologies (ICT) in education. With online learning one has the flexibility to access their studies at any time and from anywhere they can log on.

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