PhD in Marketing Online

By Derick de Souza

Updated March 16, 2024
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Derick de Souza

Derick is a business and education consultant working on various projects and scopes. With about 25 years of experience in different settings, he loves to tell others about “how not to be a failure” rather than “how to be successful.” Derick writes and edits articles on online learning, business, employment, and skill development, among others. His hobbies include photography, web design and development, and traveling.

Degrees

Master of Social Work, Master of Health Psychology

Areas of Expertise & Credentials

None to disclose in particular; the basics are covered in the short bio.

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For the most part, marketing may be defined as the act of informing prospective customers of the benefits of a product or service so that they can make a purchase. It entails promoting an organization’s ability to meet its target market’s demand for products and services by anticipating, managing, and satisfying that need. Examining every facet of a business and tracking how customers feel throughout the buying process is essential to effective marketing. Those in marketing will be responsible for assisting companies in determining who their target audience is and how to best communicate their unique selling propositions to them. A PhD in Marketing Online is a doctoral degree considered to be the highest level of study in marketing. The doctorate in marketing is designed to encourage students to widen their perspectives and knowledge base, involve themselves in deep research, and demonstrate the skills and expertise necessary to either teach in educational settings or work in senior roles in business and industry. From learning critical topics including behavioral economics, marketing strategy, and consumer behavior to researching how marketing can evolve and adapt to changing scenarios, a PhD in marketing teaches all these and more. According to PayScale, the average annual salary of a Marketing Director is $91,755, with over 90% earning more than $152,000. Glassdoor reports that the average annual salary for a Professor of Marketing is $158,655. This page dives into the PhD in marketing online program and provides essential information on what this advanced degree entails, how to pursue it, the specializations one can choose from, career opportunities, funding options, and much more.

Marketing

Best Online PhD in Marketing
Programs

Many well-established and respectable schools and universities in the United States offer online marketing PhD programs. Exceptional infrastructure, highly trained, qualified, and experienced teachers, good student support services, genuine accreditation, career guidance, excellent research facilities, and other features are expected of the best marketing PhD programs. For this purpose, several teams at FBD combed through hundreds of colleges that met these and other criteria to compile a list of the institutions that qualify for a top marketing PhD ranking. Here is the list: *

Northcentral University provides a rich tradition of delivering a premier education based on a unique one-to-one learning model, weekly course starts, and 100% doctoral faculty. Today, approximately 10,000 students are pursuing their master’s and doctoral degrees across 40+ program offerings. NCU continues to attract more students worldwide thanks to the flexibility of no group projects, no set class times, no GRE/GMAT requirement, and no physical residency requirements while providing an academically rigorous education. The tuition and graduation rate are as below:
Univ Address Tuition Grad Rate
Northcentral University 11355 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037 $11,064 NA

Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page

What to expect from the Online doctoral
programs in marketing?

Online doctoral programs in marketing are designed for students to prepare themselves for academic and other professions. Along with extensive research, theoretical and quantitative underpinnings are provided through this program. Through these, students equip themselves with a foundation to build new abilities to help begin their careers and stay up to date with the latest in the field. Students collaborate with teachers to design a program of study that is tailored to their interests. Advanced quantitative and qualitative research methods, emphasis areas, specialty electives, independent study credits, and a pedagogy seminar are usually part of the program.

The online Ph.D. degree in marketing can be broken down into 5 sections that span about 100 credits requiring roughly 4 to 7 years. These sections are:

Foundation Courses

Students get a comprehensive picture of the marketing field based on recent research and developments.

Core Courses

Students deepen their understanding of several crucial facets of marketing.

Specialization Courses

Students intensively research one or more specific issues in marketing.

Courses on Research Methods

Students learn the fundamental principles required for performing Ph.D. research.

Courses for Capstone/Thesis Preparation

Students define, investigate, and write a capstone topic/thesis, which must be defended at the end of the program.

During the early phase of a Ph.D. program in marketing, students will take classes, begin to formulate potential research subjects, gain essential research skills, complete a series of tests, and engage with lecturers and fellow students. They will have to work closely with their academic mentors from then on, often collaborating directly on existing research projects. The curriculum of a normal Ph.D. marketing program is entirely focused on gaining the skills necessary to organize and conduct empirical marketing research. The following are some examples of courses students can expect in an online PhD in marketing program:

  • Advanced Topics in Research Design
  • Applied Multivariate Analysis
  • Readings in Marketing
  • Marketing Strategy
  • Hierarchical Linear Modeling
  • Analysis of Variance
  • Applied Regression Analysis
  • Research Methods Behavioral Science
  • Experimental Design
  • Market Behavior Research
  • Foundations of Social Psychology
  • Consumer Behavior
  • Behavioral Economics
  • Marketing Models
  • Sales and Marketing
  • Global Management
  • Strategic Management and Leadership
  • Project Management
  • Strategic Information System Analyses
  • Accounting and Finance
  • Research Methods
  • Electronic Research Methods
  • Dynamic Websites

Some examples of major areas of research and scholarship expertise in marketing that doctoral students can pursue include:

  • Econometric Modeling
  • Advertising
  • Marketing-Finance Interface
  • Brand Strategy
  • Judgment and Decision-Making
  • Consumer Behavior
  • Consumer Psychology
  • Consumer Learning and Memory
  • Marketing Resource Allocation
  • Internet Marketing
  • Product Design
  • Behavior-Based Targeting
  • New Product Development
  • Corporate Social Responsibility
  • Customer Relationship Management
  • Attribution Models
  • Behavioral Economics
  • Brand Management
  • Marketing Strategy
  • Empirical Modeling

Is there a PhD in marketing online? Yes, many universities have entirely online marketing PhD programs that deliver almost all coursework over the internet. However, it is worth noting that faculty interactions, examinations, research, and other program requirements may call for visits to the campus..

Types of Doctorate Degrees in
Marketing

Doctorate degrees in marketing are often divided into two categories: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD Marketing) and Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA Marketing).

Doctor of Philosophy or PhD in Marketing

The Doctor of Philosophy or Ph.D. in marketing is a doctoral degree that enables persons to conduct research or teach marketing at the university level. This degree involves a lot of research and leads to careers in teaching and academia at a senior level.

Doctorate of Business Administration or DBA in Marketing

The DBA or Doctor of Business Administration in marketing (also known as Doctor of Business Administration) is an applied doctorate, meaning that professionals are expected to apply concepts learned via practical experience to solve problems or conduct research that could have an impact on business processes. This degree prepares individuals for senior roles in the industry.

Areas of Specialization for Online PhD
in Marketing

A marketing specialization matches the focused knowledge students gain with unique marketing positions in the industry. They provide students with a competitive advantage in the field. Students who specialize in a particular sub-field or concentration area of marketing can carve out exclusive careers based on their area of research and interest. PhD specializations in marketing can lead to senior niche roles in teaching and academia or senior positions in businesses that specialize in specific product and service categories. Here are a few concentrations to consider for students pursuing a PhD in marketing:

Specialization Description
PhD in Sales and MarketingThis specialization teaches students various strategies and skills that can be employed for using social media to promote products and services of varying types. Students are provided relevant knowledge in e-Business and the application of information and communication technologies in carrying out sales activities. The specialization also focuses on highlighting the main difference between online as well as offline marketing strategies and how to address them at various levels.
PhD in Marketing Consumer BehaviorThis specialization focuses on understanding consumer opinions, feelings, and behaviors using laboratory studies, field experiments, observational studies, and other methods. This line of research tends to expand on previous work in marketing, psychology, and sociology, among other fields. Doctoral students gain a deep understanding of marketing literature in general and linked literature in particular (such as sociology or psychology). They also gain knowledge of applied research methods, such as experimental research, observational research, field studies, and other approaches.
PhD in International MarketingThis specialization focuses on international marketing and provides students with the knowledge and skills required to promote an organization’s products or services globally. It entails the study of cross-border trade, consumer behavior by geography and demography, culture, customs, and traditions in various countries, international law, and more.
PhD in Quantitative MarketingThis specialization studies company behavior, management behavior, consumer behavior, company strategy, market dynamics, etc. This line of research tends to draw on previous work in marketing, economics, management science, and strategy, among other fields. Doctoral students gain a comprehensive understanding of marketing literature in general as well as linked literature, such as studies in economics, management science, strategy, and other fields. Students gain knowledge of appropriate research methods, which may include techniques from statistics, econometrics, biostatistics, and computer science.
PhD in Advertising (Doctorate in Advertising)This specialization emphasizes advertising as an audio or visual form of marketing and commercial communication through which a product, service, or idea is promoted or sold by using an explicitly sponsored, non-personal message. Advertising PhD programs teach students the nuances of advertising and public communication and the use of various media to promote, market, and sell a variety of offerings.
PhD in Sustainable MarketingThis specialization teaches students about the sustainable market and how marketing language, methods, and campaigns may be tailored to the needs of this industry. Students gain an understanding of environmental issues, sustainable consumer behavior, and how to build trust and relationships in a globalized world context.
PhD in Marketing AnalyticsThis specialization teaches students how to make smarter business decisions by exploring database foundations, advanced statistics, spreadsheet modeling, econometrics, customer analytics and insights, big data analytics, advanced modeling, machine learning, and more.

Online Doctorate in Digital
Marketing

A digital marketing professional’s primary responsibility is to find, test, and evaluate technologies and techniques that promote brand exposure and lead generation. KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) and ROI are used by digital marketers to track their progress (Return on Investment). While different marketing specialists oversee various marketing channels in large corporations, a digital marketer may manage many of the internet marketing responsibilities in smaller businesses.

An online PhD in digital marketing teaches students how to promote products, services, and brands on the internet using various strategies and tools. They gain a deeper understanding of various popular digital mediums such as search engines, email, social media, websites, and video platforms.

Some of the main PhD topics in digital marketing students will come across in a digital marketing PhD program are marketing communication, consumer behavior, the fundamentals of advertising, research methodology, customer engagement strategies, principles of marketing, data collection and analysis, campaign planning, lead generation, Sear Engine Optimization (SEO), SEM (Search Engine Marketing), and more.

Why should I do Online PhD in
Marketing?

Marketers are very ‘aware people’ and are usually in close contact with their clients as a result of their awareness. The unquenchable desire for awareness can be beneficial in any industry, but it is especially beneficial in fields where personal relationships are critical to success. Marketing is concerned with relationships from both the standpoint of the business and the client’s viewpoint. The ability to see things from two different perspectives is essential for making informed decisions.

Students who pursue a marketing degree are prepared for more than just a career in the corporate world. Marketing is an in-depth investigation of customer perceptions, buyer personas, marketing, communication, data, and a variety of other factors and variables.

Even if a marketing degree is not used in a typical commercial setting, it prepares students to function as well-rounded, critical thinkers in other situations. Aside from displaying superior knowledge of statistical data interpretation, marketing professionals also provide the higher-level thinking that transforms analytics into strategy. Even if it is only a course or two, foundational knowledge in marketing helps workers become more knowledgeable in their fields – regardless of their business.

So, is a PhD in marketing worth it? A PhD in marketing is the most advanced degree that can help individuals carve out active, rich, and exciting careers for themselves, with prominent responsible roles and high salaries, making all the effort one puts into their PhD studies worthwhile. Besides, those who have good critical thinking, analytical reasoning, communication, and persuasion skills, and can work under pressure, will do well to take up this degree.

Apart from transferrable skills such as analysis & problem-solving skills, interpersonal & leadership skills, research & information management skills, presentation & persuasion skills, written & oral communication skills, project management & organization skills, etc. PhD in marketing graduates will be able to demonstrate a plethora of skills that include the ability to:

research and report details in market conditions, customer data, and the competitor activities;

adjust the overall marketing strategy with the aim of fulfilling business objectives and sales targets;

create and oversee promotional and team-oriented activities;

increase purchase intention and stir up excitement for the brand among prospective customers;

take on leadership roles to establish, maintain, and evaluate marketing strategies;

plan and execute the marketing strategy, as well as construct processes, while fostering the development of entry-level employees;

operate as a business spokesman and collaborate across divisions with the purpose of bridging any gaps and boosting the firm’s products and/or services;

recruit and interview candidates for key roles within the firm, and

bear responsibility for all aspects of marketing, including the development, planning, and execution of all marketing efforts.

How to get into the Online PhD in
Marketing program?

How to get a PhD in marketing? Due to the demanding and comprehensive nature of the Ph.D. program, it is only logical that the acceptance procedure will be extremely stringent as well. During the enrolling process, admissions officials or committee members assess whether or not the applicant possesses the essential qualifications to pursue the program and is willing to put up the effort required to complete the program effectively and efficiently. Colleges are looking for qualified people who have previous expertise in their field and strong academic credentials, as well as an equally strong interest in research and teaching. It is not uncommon for an interview with a member of the admissions committee to be requested during the final stages of the application process, in addition to the baseline admission requirements. It is important to note that each school has its own admissions process and set of standards that are separate from those of the other schools. In order to be considered for admission to an online Ph.D. in marketing program, a student must generally meet the following minimum requirements:

  • Application for Admission
  • Application Fee
  • Official Academic Transcripts
  • An Undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university
  • Acceptable undergraduate coursework and Grade Point Average (GPA)
  • A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in any discipline, preferably in marketing or a closely related field from an accredited institution. (Preference is generally given to applicants with a master’s in marketing)
  • A Grade Point Average (GPA) of at least 3.0 on a scale of 4.0 in graduate-level studies
  • Acceptable Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or Graduate Record Exam (GRE) score (no more than five years old)
  • Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose
  • Professional Resume
  • At least 3 to 4 Letters of Recommendation

At some schools, students who, in particular, do not have a background in marketing may also require submitting an Admission Essay or Scholarly Writing Sample. In addition, they may have to complete prerequisite courses such as mathematics, statistics, marketing management, strategic leadership, quantitative marketing,  analysis, etc., depending on the courses they took in their previous studies.

How long does it take to complete PhD in
Marketing Online?

How long does it take to get a PhD in marketing? After finishing high school or earning a bachelor’s degree from an authorized institution or university, it takes around four to seven years (or more) to complete a Ph.D. program in marketing. Because coursework constitutes most of the Ph.D. requirements, almost the entire program can be pursued online. On the other hand, it is considerably more common for Ph.D. students to complete their dissertation/thesis through regular coursework rather than primarily over the internet. In most cases, coursework is accomplished in the first two years or four semesters of the degree, with the remaining years dedicated to research, writing, and defending a thesis or dissertation, or undertaking other similar assignments/requirements during the last two years or four semesters. Seminars and comprehensive examinations are also included in the 65-75 credit curriculum, spread over many semesters.

Furthermore, while some online Ph.D. programs enable students to work at their own speed and complete lectures and assessments on their own time, others adhere to a rigid class schedule and enroll students in a cohort for the duration of their course. Due to these and several other factors, the length of a marketing Ph.D. program might vary.

Accreditation for Online Doctorate in
Marketing

Accreditation is a critical component of an institution’s credibility, as it establishes its legitimacy. Through accreditation, students and employers are assured that the college or program is valuable and reputable and that the college meets and maintains established standards in administrative support and policies, instructor hiring and evaluation, program quality, infrastructure, and curriculum requirements. For credentials and credits to be legitimate and transferable, they must be from an institution that has been accredited by one of the six major regional accrediting bodies recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and the United States Department of Education (USDE). Regional accrediting agencies are made up of the six organizations listed below:

  • New England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE)
  • Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
  • Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
  • Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
  • Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Community and Junior Colleges Accrediting Commission (WSCUC)

Additionally, specialization accreditors can provide accreditation for doctorate in marketing programs. These organizations examine the same characteristics as general accreditation agencies but with a particular emphasis on the expert competencies required of students. They ensure that programs are well-rounded in terms of business knowledge, that teacher standards are based on real-world experience, and that the curriculum is up to date with the most recent advancements in the field. Programmatic accreditation indicates that the institution and marketing program have met subject-specific requirements established by the business community.

These are the three most well-known specialty accreditors for advanced and PhD in marketing online programs in the United States, all of which are recognized by the Council on Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA):

International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE)

The International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE) not only accredits approximately 2,000 business and accounting institutions throughout the world but also provides a supportive environment for members to develop high-quality, innovative business education programs.

Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)

The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), a global business education certification authority, was the first to award accreditation to all levels of collegiate business education degree programs, from associate to the PhD level.

Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)

Over 1,700 member organizations and more than 900 accredited business schools across the world rely on the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) for quality assurance, business education information, and learning and development services.

Students can check the accreditation status of a college or Ph.D. in marketing program on the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or U.S. Department of Education websites.

Online PhD in Marketing no GRE
Programs

Except for only a few, most Ph.D. in marketing programs need the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) to be taken or scores provided at the time of application. Due to the Covid epidemic, a few schools have relaxed or made this requirement optional, at least for the Fall 2024 intake. However, it is very hard to come by a school or program that exempts students from submitting a GRE or GMAT score. Here’s an example of a university that offers a PhD in marketing without the GRE:

The University of Chicago Booth School of Business

The University of Chicago Booth School of Business offers a PhD in marketing. Due to the current pandemic, Chicago Booth will not require the GRE/GMAT for admission to the Ph.D. program in Fall 2024. Those who do not have a GRE or GMAT will be fully considered. Applicants who do not submit a GRE/GMAT score for the Fall 2024 application do not need to request a waiver or submit a request, as these scores are entirely optional for the Fall 2024 application.

Fully Funded Online Marketing
PhD Programs

Fully or partially funded marketing and other business-related Ph.D. programs are available from several universities. Some private organizations and for-profit research businesses also offer financial aid in certain instances. However, a student’s eligibility for financing may be contingent on meeting additional admissions criteria or program requirements. Here are a few universities that provide fully-funded PhD in marketing:

University/College Description
The University of Southern California – Marshall School of BusinessThe University of Southern California automatically has a PhD program in marketing and considers its applicants for a full-tuition fellowship, which includes a monthly stipend to cover living expenses, health and dental insurance, and various administrative and institutional fees. The Marshall School of Business gives its Ph.D. students full financial support for up to 5 years and more, if necessary.
University of Pennsylvania – The Wharton SchoolThe Wharton School offers a PhD in marketing with a full fellowship that covers tuition, health insurance, and a monthly stipend for living expenses for five years of study. The total cost of the fellowship is $39,370, which does not include fees or insurance costs.
Bentley University

The Bentley University offers two fellowships – the standard Bentley PhD Fellowship and the Rauch Doctoral Fellowship. Both fellowship packages include a stipend to assist with living expenses, a full-tuition scholarship, and individual student health insurance. Stipends currently range from $35,000 to $36,000 per year, depending upon which fellowship is awarded.
University of Southern Californ

The Marshall School of Business at the University of Southern California (USC) gives full financial assistance to Ph.D. students for five years in the form of a fellowship or assistantship. A student becomes eligible for additional research funds after advancing to candidacy (usually in the third year). Every year, applicants are automatically considered for competitive fellowships. Accepted students will get a full tuition waiver, a generous stipend, individual health and dental insurance, and reimbursement for necessary student health center fees. Depending on a student’s course load, the total financial support granted is around $60,000 to $70,000 per year.
The University of Arizona Eller College of Management
University of Oregon

Accelerated Online PhD in Marketing
Programs

For students who want to get their Ph.D. in fewer than the typical 4 to 7 years, some universities offer fast-track or accelerated programs. Students should keep in mind, however, that these programs require a significant amount of time and effort every day. Students who want an expedited doctorate must take three courses per term rather than two, and they must work on their dissertation throughout the program rather than putting it all together at the end. However, accelerated Ph.D. programs in marketing are scarce; colleges seldom offer them for a variety of reasons.

How to Pay for Online Doctorate in Marketing
Programs?

Even though online Ph.D. marketing programs may be less expensive than typical in-state or out-of-state marketing Ph.D. programs, the program’s cost can go into the tens of thousands of dollars. The majority of Ph.D. students are working professionals who attempt to pay for their doctoral studies entirely on their own dime. However, given family, career, medical, and lifestyle obligations, this may not always be possible, which is why exploring alternate funding options for one’s PhD program may be a wise decision. To get started, here are a few financial aid alternatives to consider as an online Ph.D. marketing student:

For the vast majority of students seeking financial assistance, scholarships are by far the most common kind of aid. The funding of scholarships for advanced education students is provided by a variety of sources, including individual donors, private groups, alumnae associations, cultural, religious, and commercial organizations. When choosing whether or not to give a scholarship, the academic performance and achievements of applicants are taken into consideration first and foremost. Scholarships are offered to students who, in addition to academic accomplishment, have displayed leadership in their communities, come from a certain cultural background, or are members of a specific faith, to name a few other criteria. (Note: Read about Scholarship Scams to avoid being scammed.)

Fellowship

PhD Fellowships (also known as Predoctoral Fellowships) are financial awards provided to doctoral students who are in the process of completing their doctoral degrees. Some types of Ph.D. fellowships provide funding for specific causes to students who possess specified characteristics or demand that students fulfill a future task in exchange for the monies received. Fellowships are also given out as rewards for extraordinary performance, and some are designed to attract and retain highly valued students. Fellowships are awarded by a variety of organizations, including departments, universities, individuals, government agencies, and corporations.

Students who are academically bright yet originate from low-income homes are more likely to be awarded grants than their peers. Grants, in contrast to scholarships, are not wholly based on merit but instead on need and are often provided based on the financial situation of the family.

Obtaining a Teaching Assistantship is an option for students who want to work as assistants to professors, assisting them with instructional constraints, working in a lab or workshop, or teaching and demonstrating for graduates and undergraduates. In exchange for their work, they will receive a fee waiver or stipend. Research Assistantships are another option that provides a fee waiver or stipend but differs from teaching assistantships in that they allow students to assist a professor with their research rather than teaching.

Employer Sponsorship

Many employers allow their employees to continue their education while at work. If a prospective doctorate student’s company finances doctoral studies, they should inquire about the terms and conditions under which such sponsorship may be made available. In most cases, companies will need some type of long-term commitment from their employees in exchange for their support for PhD programs.

Student Loans

To the extent that they are eligible, doctoral students and working professionals pursuing their Ph.D. may also consider taking out loans from the government, banks, or other private lenders, which will include making interest payments. Students should be aware that loans not paid back on time will incur additional interest and penalties, which will almost certainly result in an increase in student debt as a result.

The FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is a form students can fill in and submit to check their eligibility for financial aid against various criteria. More FAFSA-related information is available here.

Read the best Financial Guide to know more about various types of financial aid.

Free Courses for Online PhD in
Marketing

PhD students of marketing will seldom come by free programs and courses that may be useful to them in their studies or research. Nonetheless, some graduate-level or PhD-level courses could present a different perspective on a topic and, in turn, enhance one’s knowledge. Here are a few resources for free courses for marketing PhD students:

Course Description Offered by
Topics on MarketingUdemy has over 1200 free courses and programs ranging from Affiliate Marketing, Digital Marketing, YouTube Marketing, Public Relations, Paid Advertising, Branding, and more.Udemy
Topics on MarketingBusiness owners and individuals can use Google Primer, a free mobile app that offers short, simple courses to help them improve their business, marketing, and goal-achieving abilities. Students can choose classes that are relevant to their future careers by selecting from a wide range of business and digital marketing topics.Google Primer
Social Marketing Success Kit Students learn how to identify the appropriate social media platforms for their business, how to use social media advertising, how to create a social media calendar, and how to organize a social media team through the use of the Social Marketing Success Kit. All of the materials in the bundle are available as webinars, e-books, PowerPoint decks, and a blog.Adobe Experience Cloud
Topics on MarketingMarketingTeacher.com offers more than 400 free marketing classes covering a wide range of learning levels and sub-fields of marketing, including creative marketing, digital marketing, international marketing, relationship marketing, and others.Marketing Teacher
Topics on MarketingClass Central offers over 680 free online courses and MOOCs from the University of Pennsylvania, University of California, eCornell, Northwestern University, University of Virginia, The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and other top universities around the world.Class Central

FAQs about Online PhD in Marketing
Programs

How to get a PhD in Marketing?

In order to enroll in an online Ph.D. marketing program, an applicant must first get a bachelor’s degree in any discipline, preferably in marketing or a field closely related to marketing. Having a master’s degree may increase the chances of being accepted into a PhD program. Beginning in their first year of study, students are required to take courses in five different categories: foundational coursework, core coursework, specialized coursework, research methodologies coursework, and capstone/thesis preparation coursework. Following that, students must conduct research, create, and submit a dissertation or thesis, as well as defend it in front of a panel of academicians and experts, among other requirements.

What are the best marketing PhD programs in Marketing?

What is the average fee charged by the colleges for a PhD in marketing?

Is there a PhD in marketing online?

What can you do with a PhD in marketing?

How long is a PhD in marketing?

What is the difference between a PhD and DBA in marketing?

Career Opportunities and Salaries after Online
PhD in Marketing

What can you do with a PhD in marketing? In most cases, a PhD in marketing leads to senior teaching and academic roles in post-secondary institutions such as colleges and universities. Some graduates also become self-employed by starting their own consultancy firm and providing a wide range of marketing services to clients. But it is not uncommon for marketing PhD holders to opt for careers in the business sector. Most of them become eligible for senior and responsible roles in upper management as analysts, managers, directors, or top executives. Of course, it is essential to note that additional certification and years of experience over and above a PhD degree in marketing will add to the individual’s potential of being readily hired and demanding high salaries.

The scope of PhD after MBA marketing is also promising. The combination of a business administration degree coupled with a concentration in marketing is well valued and received by the job market. PhD marketing graduates, outside of academia, can work in various settings such as insurance companies, startups, multinational companies, healthcare institutions, product manufacturing companies – such as fast-moving consumer goods, electronics, automobiles, etc., service providers, agriculture, entertainment, direct marketing firms, internet and digital marketing agencies, advertising agencies, and more.

 Some examples of job titles include, but are not limited to:

  • V.P. of Marketing
  • Marketing Data Analyst
  • Social Media Manager
  • Market Researcher
  • Content Strategist
  • Brand Manager
  • Creative Director
  • Marketing Research Analyst
  • Advertising Director
  • VP of Sales
  • Chief Marketing Officer
  • Marketing Manager
  • Digital Marketing Specialist
  • Product Marketing Specialist
  • Product Marketing Manager
  • Media Relations Director
  • Public Relations Director
  • Marketing Communications Director
  • Digital Strategist
  • Social Media Manager
  • Digital Marketing Manager

The PhD in marketing salary is hard to estimate because of the varied roles, responsibilities, and titles one can take up. It is also dependent on the person’s educational background, certifications, skills, years of experience, location, and the specific sector in the industry. For example, although their titles may be identical, a marketing manager of a consumer goods firm may earn less than one in an automobile company (or vice-versa).

Here is a list of a few roles in marketing and the PhD in marketing salary and job growth, as reported by O*NET OnLine, Glassdoor, Salary.com, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):

OccupationJob DescriptionMedian Annual SalaryJob Growth (up to 2030)
Advertising & Promotions ManagerAn Advertising & Promotions Manager plans, directs, or coordinates advertising policies and programs or produces collateral materials, such as posters, contests, coupons, or giveaways, to create extra interest in the purchase of a product or service for a department, an entire organization, or on an account basis.$133,46010% to 15% (faster than average)
Sales ManagerA Sales Manager plans, directs, or coordinates a product or service’s actual distribution or movement to the customer. They coordinate sales distribution by establishing sales territories, quotas, and goals and delivering training programs for sales representatives.$132,2905% to 10% (as fast as average)
Top Executive in a Direct Selling EstablishmentA Top Executive at a direct selling establishment helps develop an organization’s overall marketing policies, provides strategic direction of all marketing functions, and plans, reports, and controls marketing activity while overseeing subordinates.$113,690N.A.
Professor of MarketingA Professor of Marketing teaches marketing and related subjects at the post-secondary level in higher education universities or colleges. They prepare course materials, such as syllabi, compile, administer, and grade examinations, and prepare and deliver lectures to undergraduate or graduate students.$158,665N.A.
Marketing DirectorA Marketing Director directs and creates the marketing policies and objectives of an organization. Market research is overseen, and marketing plans are created for specific products, services, or business lines. A Marketing Director analyzes market trends and makes marketing strategy recommendations to upper management.  Within a larger departmental role, the Marketing Director oversees a departmental sub-function and develops budgets, plans, campaigns, policies, procedures, etc., to support the functional infrastructure and meet the specific targets for the sub-function.$150,151N.A.

Certifications and Licensing for Online PhD
in Marketing

Obtaining a PhD in marketing is, of course, very commendable. Armed with a PhD, individuals can land themselves many lucrative jobs in business and academic institutions. Nevertheless, certifications can boost one’s career prospects even further and make the possibility of higher pay packets even better. Certifications are also required for a range of professions as a condition of employment or practice, and they often lead to licensure for specific jobs. PhD in marketing graduates can choose from several certifications offered by industry leaders and private businesses. Although licensure is not required to practice or function as a marketeer in virtually all circumstances, certain occupations in education, insurance, or securities sales may require licensure from specific organizations.

Here are some certifications for marketing PhD holders to explore:

American Marketing Association (AMA)

The American Marketing Association (AMA) offers six credentials to graduates of an online master’s in marketing or working marketers. The majority of these certificates need a bachelor’s degree and four years of professional marketing experience or seven years of general marketing experience. AMA certificates are available in the following:

OMCP Digital Marketing Certification

In the field of digital marketing, the Online Marketing Certified Professionals (OMCP) certification is given to professionals who have demonstrated their knowledge of digital marketing best practices across a variety of digital marketing disciplines, as well as extensive training. Over 900 universities and training institutes throughout the world teach OMCP standards to their students each year. Companies with thousands of top employees desire to hire professionals who have earned OMCP certifications.

SMEI Certified Marketing Executive (CME)

The SMEI Certified Marketing Executive (CME) designation demonstrates mastery of marketing theories, principles, and practices as they apply to the management of the marketing function in a complex company. It is offered by Sales & Marketing Executives International, Inc. (SMEI). The following certifications are also available from SMEI:

Certified Marketing Analyst (CMA) – Charter Certification from AAPM

The American Academy of Project Management (AAPM) offers the Certified Marketing Analyst (CMA) charter certification, which teaches candidates the principles of marketing and eMarketing management, among other things. The certification identifies marketing techniques and technology that are critical for success in a globally changing competitive landscape.

Additional Resources for Online
Ph.D. in Marketing
Degree

Ph.D. students need to gain deeper insights into marketing through extensive study and research. Networking with like-minded individuals, professors, professionals, and peers will go a long way in helping PhD marketing students prepare for their thesis or dissertation. Through professional organizations and other resources, students pursuing an online PhD in marketing can expand their knowledge and research abilities. To that end, they may find the following resources to be particularly useful:

eMarketing Association (eMA)

The objective of the eMA, the world’s largest association of e-marketers, is to develop the field of digital marketing. The eMA offers networking opportunities, information on seminars and trade exhibitions, and assistance with certifying e-marketing specializations to e-marketing professionals. Students who are enrolled full-time in school receive a discounted membership rate as well as discounts on career services and educational products.

Association of National Advertisers (ANA)

The Association of National Advertisers (ANA) represents over 20,000 well-known corporations, guiding and assisting them in becoming more successful marketers, developing better brands, and advocating industry and societal change. Furthermore, the organization inspires marketing teams to attain high performance levels by leveraging its unrivaled and unique intellectual capital, which includes insights, events, and professional development programs.

Internet Marketing Association (IMA)

The Internet Marketing Association (IMA) is a professional organization with a mission to enhance the profession of internet marketing globally. It has one of the largest databases of sales, marketing, company ownership, programming, and creative development specialists. Members have access to a number of resources, such as events, publications, and the latest news.

American Marketing Association (AMA)

The American Marketing Association (AMA) is a network of passionate marketing professionals who work in the field, teach in the field, and study in the field. Candidates will receive discounts on materials and activities that will help them grow their knowledge and advance in their careers, in addition to receiving special AMA content. Members can take advantage of additional networking possibilities by joining one of the AMA’s more than 70 local professional chapters across North America.

The Digital Marketing Association (DMA)

The Digital Marketing Association (DMA) is a non-profit membership organization for people who work in, are connected to, or want to work in digital marketing. They can benefit from the organization’s information, certification, and education. Certifications, training, digital marketing tools, and a close-knit network of digital marketers are some of the many resources available through the DMA.

Author Bio:

Derick de Souza

Derick is a business and education consultant working on various projects and scopes. With about 25 years of experience in different settings, he loves to tell others about “how not to be a failure” rather than “how to be successful.” Derick writes and edits articles on online learning, business, employment, and skill development, among others. His hobbies include photography, web design and development, and traveling.

Degrees

Master of Social Work, Master of Health Psychology

Areas of Expertise & Credentials

None to disclose in particular; the basics are covered in the short bio.

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