Career Guide: A Master of Science in Marketing

A Master of Science (MS) in Marketing opens diverse career paths, ranging from traditional marketing roles in organizations to positions in PR and advertising to the growing area of digital marketing. Graduates can become brand managers, work in market research and analytics, or enter digital marketing, handling tasks like social media management and search engine optimization (SEO).

The degree offers a dynamic marketing career path which makes it a popular choice for individuals seeking career advancement. Learn more about the diverse marketing career prospects in this comprehensive career guide.

What is an MS in Marketing degree?

A master’s in marketing is a graduate program that helps students gain cutting-edge marketing skills and knowledge. Tailored for both experienced marketing professionals and those aspiring to enter the industry, this degree provides a comprehensive foundation. Graduates develop both business knowledge and practical skills, preparing students to be ready for success in the constantly evolving world of marketing.

The curriculum for an MS in Marketing covers a diverse range of subjects. Topics include marketing management, digital marketing, consumer behavior, research, analytics, integrated marketing communications, advertising, and global marketing.

The University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) distinguishes itself by offering both a fully online MS in Marketing program and an on-campus MS in Marketing program. These programs provide essential concepts and tools for a career in marketing. Taught by a renowned faculty involved in research and practice, the curriculum seamlessly blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience. Housed in the UIC Business Liautaud Graduate School, the online MS in Marketing degree is a 32-credit hour program and the on-campus MS in Marketing degree is a 34-credit hour program. Both programs can be completed in as few as 12 months.

What industries do MS in Marketing graduates work in?

An MS in Marketing is a flexible degree that can lead to many job opportunities in various industries. Marketing plays a pivotal role in a company’s business strategy, serving as a key driver for customer acquisition and revenue generation. Marketing is the eyes, ears and voice of the company, and is ideally suited to interact with customers online or offline. In the ever-evolving landscape of marketing, professionals with an advanced understanding of consumer behavior and strategic planning will continue to be in high demand.

Here are some key industries where MS in Marketing graduates can make a significant impact:

• Consumer Goods and Retail: Contribute to product development, brand management, and effective marketing strategies to enhance product visibility and drive sales.
• Technology and IT: Promote new products, build brand loyalty, and engage users in technology and IT companies.
• Healthcare: Communicate with diverse stakeholders, including patients, healthcare professionals, and the public, by developing impactful marketing campaigns and strategies.
• Hospitality and Tourism: Marketing professionals can contribute by developing creative campaigns and enhancing customer experience.
• Entertainment and Media: Create buzz, generate interest, drive audience engagement, and measure results.
• Consulting: Develop and implement effective marketing strategies working with consulting firms or as an independent consultant.
• E-commerce: Contribute to e-commerce success through roles in digital marketing, e-commerce strategy, and user experience optimization.

What careers can you pursue with a MS in Marketing degree?

An MS in Marketing degree equips professionals with the skills required to succeed in today’s marketing roles. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 10% employment growth rate for marketing managers from 2021 to 2031 – double the predicted national job growth rate. Graduates holding an MS in Marketing distinguish themselves as qualified and knowledgeable job candidates.

An MS in Marketing degree will prepare graduates for the following roles sourced from U.S. News & World Report:

Brand Manager: These managers are responsible for developing and maintaining a strong brand identity. They oversee branding initiatives, product positioning, and collaborate with various teams to ensure consistent brand messaging.

Marketing Manager: This job involves coordinating the marketing function in an organization, and creating and carrying out plans to advertise products or services. They oversee advertising campaigns and analyze market trends.

Sales Manager: These managers oversee sales teams, set sales targets, and develop and implement strategies to meet or exceed goals. They work closely with marketing teams to align sales efforts with overall marketing objectives.

Digital Strategist: These strategists specialize in developing and implementing online marketing strategies. They work on SEO, content marketing, and digital advertising to make a brand more visible and reach the right audience online.

Public Relations Manager: This job involves creating and upkeeping a good public image for companies. They craft press releases, coordinate with media outlets, and manage communication during crises.

Market Research Analyst: This job studies market trends, consumer behavior, and creates marketing strategies. They utilize various research methodologies to gather and analyze data.

Product Marketing Specialist: These specialists focus on promoting and positioning specific products within the market. They develop marketing campaigns, conduct market research, and collaborate with other teams to ensure successful product launches.

Social Media Manager: These managers are responsible for creating and executing social media strategies to enhance brand visibility and engagement. They manage social media accounts, create content, and analyze performance metrics.

These careers highlight the diverse paths available to MS in Marketing graduates. The projected 10% employment growth rate underscores the robust demand for professionals with advanced marketing expertise. To learn more about UIC’s online MS in Marketing program, talk to an enrollment specialist today.