A Master of Business Administration (MBA) in marketing is an advanced, specialized business degree that combines foundational aspects of business with in-depth marketing coursework. This degree prepares graduates for high-level marketing roles that are desirable in today’s customer-focused, data-driven economy.
There is currently a strong demand for skilled professionals who can create and implement marketing plans for organizations, particularly those who can incorporate strategy and creative outreach to drive business growth. This article explores the focus areas of an MBA in marketing, the skills you’ll gain, career opportunities available and how the online MBA with a Specialization in Marketing program from Youngstown State University (YSU) helps you attain your professional goals through flexible, online coursework that fits your schedule and lifestyle.
What Is an MBA in Marketing?
An MBA in marketing is a graduate degree that combines core MBA business principles, such as finance, operations and leadership, with a marketing specialization. This specialization includes a study of consumer behavior in the digital world, including the decisions consumers make when acquiring goods and services. Students analyze the role technology plays in addressing customer needs and learn to develop and implement successful marketing plans.
In an MBA in marketing program, you’ll also study financial decision-making, management, organizational theory and business strategy. Graduates develop an understanding of the economic factors that influence organizational decision-making and the methods companies use to stay competitive.
Ideal candidates for this program include individuals with an interest in marketing and its effects on positive business outcomes, students interested in consumer psychology and behavior, and those who want to turn their creativity into tangible marketing campaigns. Many candidates are current business professionals looking to advance into higher-level marketing roles.
What Will You Learn in an MBA in Marketing Program?
Aside from core business topics, key areas of study include managing marketing activities (marketing management), learning how individuals and consumers make purchase decisions, and modern marketing techniques, such as gathering and analyzing data to reach key markets and consumers. You’ll also learn how to develop comprehensive marketing strategies built around the four Ps of marketing: product, price, promotion and placement.
Other topics include digital marketing, content marketing and social media for businesses. Students learn how to use large datasets and analytics tools to make marketing decisions for an organization. Students also explore specialized topics like brand management, new product development, pricing strategies and international marketing.
What Are Essential Skills for Marketing Professionals?
Marketing MBA students graduate with a variety of technical, soft, and leadership skills. Examples of technical skills include strategic and analytical thinking, data analysis, financial forecasting and campaign strategy. Business skills encompass how marketing translates into sales and business growth, as well as how to develop strategies that effectively reach a target audience.
Soft skills you’ll gain while in the program include networking, creativity, innovation and adaptability. Students also develop vital leadership skills, like verbal, written and listening skills, as well as collaboration and team management skills that support marketing management roles.
What Are the Career Paths and Job Outlook With a Marketing MBA?
Potential career paths for graduates with an MBA in marketing include roles like marketing strategist, product manager, marketing manager, brand manager and digital content specialist. The average median salary for advertising, promotions and marketing managers was approximately $159,660 in 2024, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
While the annual salary for entry-level marketing professionals is approximately $63,000, marketing managers earn closer to $160,000 per year. Salaries also vary by industry. Graduates may work in a range of industries, including retail, healthcare, manufacturing and entertainment. Typical employers range from small businesses in the technology sector to major retail, automotive or media corporations.
Inside YSU’s Online MBA in Marketing Program
YSU’s online MBA in Marketing program combines core courses in business, including marketing fundamentals, courses with a leadership emphasis and specialized courses in digital marketing tailored to today’s world. Students learn how to make decisions using analytical methods to interpret information in business contexts, while developing critical skills that require strategic thinking to evaluate complex business scenarios.
YSU’s fully online coursework lets you learn at your own pace and on your own schedule from any location, giving you the flexibility to maintain your current career and lifestyle. The Williamson College of Business Administration at YSU is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International).
Expand Your Marketing Horizons
The MBA in Marketing online degree at YSU prepares graduates to become leaders and advance in their careers. The flexible, online program combines essential business foundations with specialized marketing expertise to position you for long-term success.
Explore YSU’s website to learn more about the program. If you’re ready to take the next step toward a fulfilling and exciting marketing career, submit your application to YSU’s online MBA in Marketing program today.
