Digital marketing is a form of marketing that uses digital tools and platforms to communicate marketing messages to customers.

The nature of most digital marketing jobs means you’ll be working on small projects, and being able to learn on the job is highly beneficial. However, since so much depends on personal skills and experience, it’s important to learn about the theory behind digital marketing to fully grasp the concepts and methodologies behind the jobs that you’re keen on pursuing.

Here’s a list of the 7 best digital marketing courses for 2020 to help you decide what to study and where.

1. Analytics for Business Professionals Certificate

This certificate program is built around the idea that you don’t necessarily need a full degree to be able to do analytics. Rather, you can gain sufficient knowledge through this certificate program to gain employment in analytics, or as a freelance data analyst. The coursework will focus on providing you with enough theory to back up the jobs that you’ll be taking on afterward. Once you’ve completed the certificate program, you’ll be able to take the General Certificate in Digital Marketing (GCDM). This will qualify you to apply for a job in digital marketing, or to become a digital marketer in one of the many companies that offer graduate degrees in marketing.

2. Certificate in Digital Marketing

This certificate program is, again, aimed at providing you with the knowledge and skills necessary to be a successful digital marketer. Similar to the Analytics for Business Professionals certificate, this certificate program does not require a full degree to be able to undertake. Instead, you’ll gain the knowledge and expertise necessary through this certificate program. Even though this certificate program does not provide you with a degree, you will still be able to apply for a job in digital marketing afterward. Depending on how much experience you have, you may be able to pursue a graduate program in marketing to further specialize in digital marketing.

3. Certificate in Data Science for Marketing

This certificate program is designed for marketers, data scientists, and technologists who are interested in exploring the relationship between marketing and data, as well as the use of data to optimize marketing performance.

It’s important to note that while this certificate program does require a strong background in data analysis, it also expects you to have a genuine interest in marketing and data science. Therefore, those who have an interest in using data and analytics to optimize marketing performance will be able to benefit the most from this academic program. The curriculum covers a wide variety of topics, including data preparation and analysis, using advanced statistical techniques, and exploring the application of AI in marketing.

4. Master of Science in Information Management

This is a one-of-a-kind program that offers students an opportunity to explore the theoretical and practical aspects of information management, as well as how to design and implement large-scale information systems. Students will develop the expertise needed to be a senior manager or a CIO in a large corporation.

5. Master of Science in Digital Marketing

This is another one-of-a-kind program that will help you gain the knowledge and skills necessary to be a successful digital marketer. Similar to the previous course, this program is also aimed at providing students with the theory and practical knowledge needed to become a senior manager in a large corporation, or to start your own agency. In addition to teaching you the theory and tools behind digital marketing, the program will help you develop your own strategic marketing plan, using both offline and online marketing methods.

6. Master of Science in Marketing

This is a traditional, full-time program that provides students with the theoretical and practical knowledge necessary to become a marketer. It’s also one of the most popular programs among online students, as it allows you to study part-time and on your own schedule. Similar to the degree mentioned above, this program will prepare you for a senior manager role in a large corporation, or to start your own agency. In addition to imparting the knowledge needed to become a successful marketer, this degree program can also help you develop your skills in statistical analysis, marketing research, and marketing planning.

7. Master of Science in Advertising

Advertising is often seen as a form of marketing that refers to the promotion of brands and products using targeted advertisements, such as billboards, bus shelters, or magazine spreads. However, this is a rather narrow definition, as digital marketing includes a variety of marketing tasks, including advertising, when applied to the digital sphere.

While this master’s program does require a strong technical background in digital marketing, it is also aimed at providing students with the theory and practical knowledge needed to become a senior manager in a large corporation, or to start your own agency. Similar to the other master’s degree programs listed above, this one can help you develop your skills in statistical analysis, marketing research, and marketing planning.

In deciding which degree to study, you need to think about what you’ll be using the degree in. If you’re looking to enter the job market, then taking a marketing related degree, such as digital marketing, will undoubtedly be beneficial. Perhaps more importantly, you should also consider which academic discipline you’ll be required to study, as this will have a direct effect on your future earning potential.