With the current state of affairs regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, more and more people are looking to secure a job in the digital marketing field, especially since so many traditional marketing jobs are now becoming obsolete. Since the pandemic has shown the power of the internet and social media to promote and disseminate information, educating oneself on digital marketing will not only improve one’s employability but also their knowledge and understanding of the contemporary world and its evolving norms and practices.

The Evolving Role of Digital Marketing

What used to be considered traditional marketing (TV commercials, billboards, magazine spreads) is now considered digital marketing. This includes all of the digital marketing degree programs and specializations (SEO, PPC, content strategy, analytics, etc.). Traditional marketing will still exist, but it will be considered a subset of digital marketing.

The difference between traditional and digital marketing is the way in which the customer interacts with the brand. With traditional marketing, the customer normally interacts with the brand in a linear fashion, often through simple actions or activities (like voting or buying a product).

With digital marketing, the customer normally interacts with the brand in a non-linear fashion, using various platforms and devices (like email, web browsing, apps, etc.). In other words, customers normally don’t just interact with your brand, they interact with your brand in a digital environment that is constantly evolving.

The Rise of Online Learning

The need to secure a job in the field became even more pressing for those pursuing their degrees because universities and colleges have begun to close down as a result of the pandemic. Many of those who earned their degrees prior to the pandemic found themselves in a job market that was suddenly over-supplied with labor. Since many of these degrees didn’t translate into the high-paying jobs that were available prior to the pandemic, many people are looking to further their educations.

Online learning has become a popular way for people to further their educations, as it provides people with the flexibility necessary to maintain a job and study at the same time. With the added bonus of being able to work remotely when needed.

The Benefits of an Online Program

Online learning provides several distinct benefits to those pursuing a digital marketing degree. One of the biggest plusses is the ability to work remotely when needed. Some of the other benefits include:

• Earning a degree without having to leave your home
• Having a flexible schedule that allows you to maintain a job and go to school
• Having the opportunity to study at night when needed
• Being able to work with your peers and other professionals remotely

An added bonus of pursuing an online degree in digital marketing is that, when completed, you will have a degree that is generally accepted globally, which opens up a world of opportunities for you.

The Drawbacks of an Online Degree

While many people see the distinct advantages of pursuing a digital marketing degree online, there are a few drawbacks to this route.

• The expense of acquiring the required equipment and software to study
• Lack of interaction with other students (unless you use a virtual learning platform)
• Having to manage your own time effectively (even when you are studying at night, there will be times when you have to get up early in the morning to prepare for lectures or assignments)
• Less opportunity for socialization into a working environment

With the above in mind, what are your thoughts about pursuing a digital marketing degree? Are you looking to further your education and career in the field? If so, which route – on campus or online? The answer to this question will help determine which route you should take in order to secure your desired job title and salary.