In 2021, a whopping 44% of working adults use the internet to research products and services before purchasing decisions are made. That’s 3 out of every 10 adults. It would be safe to assume that the majority of these research voyagers go online to find information about brands and products that they are passionate about. To meet this growing need, many universities and colleges have established online teaching programs that allow individuals to study and graduate without having to physically relocate. These online social marketing courses provide graduates with the skills necessary to succeed in the workforce and make an impact in their chosen fields.
Here, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the top-notch online social marketing courses available around the world. These courses can help you prepare for a promising career in digital marketing, or as an online marketer. Whether you’re looking to accelerate your learning curve or want to round out your knowledge of PPC (Pay-Per-Click) and SEO (Search Engine Optimization), these courses can help.
Online Marketing Degree
If you’re new to the field or looking to refresh your knowledge, an online marketing degree can expedite your education and let you specialize in a specific area of digital marketing. With so much competition for talent, employers have an ever-expanding list of job requirements they’re looking to meet. If you want to make sure you’ve got the skillset necessary to succeed in the field, an online marketing degree can help you gain confidence in your decision.
An ideal place to start is the University of Minnesota, whose marketing department boasts one of the most impressive online marketing degrees in the country. Their popular Bachelors in Marketing Analytics allow students to specialize in marketing analytics, which is a growing field, or get a general education in marketing. The university’s Bachelors in Digital Marketing also boast high acceptance rates and high employment opportunities once you graduate. With an impressive online marketing degree from the University of Minnesota behind you, you’ll be able to find a job in a company committed to providing a positive user experience online.
Another great option is the University of Sydney, whose marketing program boasts an outstanding reputation. Its Bachelor of Business degree in Marketing is accredited by the Australian Association of Advertising Agencies and the Australian Institute of Advertising Agencies. Students gain valuable work experience by participating in the university’s innovative marketing program, which consists of a three-year Bachelor of Business degree, and a one-year Master of Business Administration degree. Both the undergraduate and postgraduate degrees are accessible completely online, so you can continue your education, even if you’re employed elsewhere.
Marketing Specialty
If you already have a Bachelor’s degree and want to further specialize in marketing, you can enter one of the following specialties:
- Marketing analytics
- Digital marketing
- Inbound marketing
- Online marketing
- Social media marketing
- Strategic marketing
- Marketing management
- Marketing research
- Marketing communications
- Digital marketing strategy
- Marketing strategy
- E-marketing
If none of the above specialties sound like a good fit, you can also become a generalist and gain experience in each specialty.
Get Certified
If you’re looking to further specialize in marketing, you can also take the IMCA’s digital marketing certification exam, which is designed to provide you with the knowledge necessary to succeed in the industry. Once you pass the test, you’ll be able to find a job as a digital marketer. The IMCA (the International Marketing Certification Association) also offers a variety of other marketing certifications, which you can gain experience and certification in.
Digital marketers must be able to analyze the results of marketing campaigns, understand all aspects of online marketing from a strategic standpoint, and be able to communicate with customers. To meet this demand, the IMCA offers the following certifications:
- Certified Digital Marketing Professional (CDMP)
- Certified Social Media Marketing Specialist (CSMMS)
- Certified Email Marketing Professional (CEMP)
- Certified Analytics Professional (CAPP)
- Certified Marketing Intelligence Professional (CMIPS)
- Certified Online Marketing Professional (COMP)
- Certified Data Science Professional (CDSP)
- Marketing Analyst Professional (MACP)
If none of the above specialties sound like a good fit, you can gain experience in each by participating in the IMCA’s internship program. In 2022, the organization will launch its next marketing specialization, which will be in Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, and Blockchain. So, keep your eyes peeled for more information on the IMCA’s upcoming courses.
Get Paid To
If none of the above specialties sound like a good fit, you can also gain experience in each specialty by getting paid to participate in online market research. You’ll be compensated based on the number of survey responses you provide, the amount of time you spend participating in surveys, and the value of the responses. Some of the best online market research firms, such as OneOpinion and Survey Junkie, offer steady paychecks and provide you with a solid foundation for a rewarding and busy career in digital marketing.
Get A First Job
If you’re new to the field or looking to further specialize in marketing, you can also get a first job in digital marketing. It’s a great choice for those seeking experience, as well as those who want to make a long-term commitment to the industry. If you’re fortunate enough to land a job in digital marketing, you’ll have numerous opportunities to further specialize and grow your knowledge.
An excellent place to start is the IMCA, whose membership is highly esteemed and includes some of the biggest brands in the world. With over 500 members, including many of the Fortune 500 companies, you’ll be able to build a valuable network that will prove to be invaluable in your future career. Additionally, many large companies have marketing divisions that are looking for new talent, so even if you aren’t working in a corporate setting, you’ll have the opportunity to further specialize and grow your career.
Even if you do end up specializing in a different area, having an online marketing degree will put you ahead of the competition, giving you the confidence to land that first job, and ultimately, build a thriving career.