online phd in digital marketing

Where To Earn An Online Ph.D. In Marketing In 2024

Published: Apr 17, 2024, 9:52am

Marketing careers offer diverse and exciting opportunities for those with a knack for creativity, strategic thinking and data analysis who want to make impactful contributions to businesses and brands.

A Ph.D. in marketing is the most advanced degree you can earn in the field. It can help you advance your career as a marketing executive or prepare you for an academic or research-based position.

Several institutions offer Ph.D. in marketing online programs designed for working professionals. These programs delve into essential areas such as consumer behavior, market research methodologies, strategic marketing planning and emerging digital marketing strategies.

This guide provides an overview of the two online Ph.D. in marketing programs that meet our ranking criteria, which includes credibility, affordability, student outcomes and student experience. Take a look at what these programs offer.

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Online Marketing Ph.D. Options

Kennesaw state university, national university, degree finder.

Kennesaw State University ’s online Ph.D. in business administration with a marketing concentration is designed for working professionals who want to continue their careers while advancing their education.

Instead of online courses, students attend one weekend residency per month at the Kennesaw, Georgia campus. The Friday-to-Sunday classes explore research methods and data analysis; students also take seminars and prep for their dissertations.

In their third year, students focus on their dissertation requirement without the in-person requirement. Research areas include topics within consumer behavior and marketing strategy.

Graduate online tuition is the same for in-state and out-of-state students: $383 per credit.

At a Glance

• School Type: Public
• Application Fee: $60
• Degree Credit Requirements: 48 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Full-time
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Introduction to research, analysis of variance designs
• Concentrations Available: N/A
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, once-a-month weekend residencies

Based in San Diego, National University offers its Ph.D. in business administration in strategic marketing online with no in-person requirements. Once enrolled, students can start any Monday that’s convenient for them.

The program requires a minimum of five core courses, five specialization courses, two statistical courses, five research courses and one doctoral elective, and it takes around six years to complete.

National University is a Yellow Ribbon School that offers exclusive active-duty military and veterans scholarships. Standard tuition is $442 per quarter unit.

• School Type: Private
• Application Fee: Free
• Degree Credit Requirements: 60 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Full-time, part-time
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Changing times: business administration in the 21st century, business financial systems
• In-Person Requirements: No

How To Find the Right Online Ph.D. in Marketing for You

If you’ve decided to pursue an online Ph.D. in marketing, consider these essential factors to help guide your search.

Consider Your Future Goals

You can earn two types of doctoral degrees in marketing: a Ph.D. and a Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.). Ph.D. programs focus on research and lend themselves to careers in academia or research. D.B.A. programs target business leaders seeking specialized skills.

As an online student, consider the program delivery and whether you need to attend any in-person residencies or classes. Some programs offer classes asynchronously, meaning you can log in when convenient and review lectures during your free time. Other universities require you to attend classes on a scheduled day and time. Consider whether you need the flexibility to study according to your schedule.

In-person residency programs may allow you to graduate faster. But if you attend a school far from home, you’ll have to budget travel expenses and time away from your family or work obligations.

Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options

A Ph.D. from National University costs $26,520, while the same degree from Kennesaw State University costs a minimum of $18,384.

However, the tuition rates for Ph.D. programs vary significantly among schools, depending on whether they are public or private, if you’re in-state or out-of-state, and your enrollment status. If you plan to continue working, check with your employer to see if they offer tuition reimbursement.

You can complete the FAFSA® to determine your federal student loans and other aid eligibility. Your school may also offer scholarships, grants or low-interest loans.

Should You Enroll in a Ph.D. in Marketing Online?

Earning an online doctorate is a great choice if you plan to keep your job, cannot relocate or want to find a lower-cost alternative. Still, you’ll want to consider your learning style, availability and budget.

Learning Style

Can you learn in a virtual environment without the presence of classmates or immediate feedback from the instructor? Logging into classes from wherever it’s most convenient offers a great deal of flexibility, but you’ll have to tune out distractions and stay organized with your coursework.

If you benefit from the structure and real-time engagement offered by in-person classes, opt for a more traditional degree program. The same is true if you’re not savvy with technology.

Availability

Ph.D. programs require a multi-year time commitment, and you’ll have to coordinate your research and dissertation topic with faculty. Consider if you’ll have the time to fulfill the degree requirements.

Also, research the program’s delivery format. Some programs require in-person residencies, which affect your travel and time away from your current commitments. They may also deliver classes synchronously, meaning you need to be present on certain days and times of the week. If your work or personal life is demanding, look for programs delivered asynchronously, meaning you can review the lectures on your own time.

The cost of earning an online Ph.D. in marketing can vary significantly. While earning a degree online allows you to save money on commuting, housing and dining fees, you’ll need to cover your technology costs and any distance learning fees.

Also, private universities often cost more than public institutions, so determine your budget before choosing a program.

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Accreditation for Online Marketing Ph.D. Programs

Before committing your time and money to an online marketing Ph.D. program, it’s essential to make sure the university has institutional accreditation. Accreditation means the university has met stringent quality and academic standards set by an accrediting body.

Attending an institutionally accredited school ensures you can transfer your credits to another university and qualify for federal financial aid. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation maintains a searchable list of accredited colleges, universities and programs.

Programs and departments within universities can apply for programmatic accreditation, which may be required for graduate school acceptance or professional licensure or certification.

​​Business schools with Ph.D. in marketing programs can apply for accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, or the International Accreditation Council for Business Education.

Our Methodology

We ranked two accredited, nonprofit colleges offering online marketing Ph.D. programs in the U.S. using 15 data points in the categories of student experience, credibility, student outcomes and affordability. We pulled data for these categories from reliable resources such as the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ; private, third-party data sources; and individual school and program websites.

Data is accurate as of February 2024. Note that because online doctorates are relatively uncommon, fewer schools meet our ranking standards at the doctoral level.

We scored schools based on the following metrics:

Student Experience:

• Student-to-faculty ratio
• Socioeconomic diversity
• Availability of online coursework
• Total number of graduate assistants
• Proportion of graduate students enrolled in at least some distance education

Credibility:

• Fully accredited
• Programmatic accreditation status
• Nonprofit status

Student Outcomes:

• Overall graduation rate
• Median earnings 10 years after graduation

Affordability:

• In-state graduate student tuition
• In-state graduate student fees
• Alternative tuition plans offered
• Median federal student loan debt
• Student loan default rate

We listed all two schools in the U.S. that met our ranking criteria.

Find our full list of methodologies here .

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Earning an Online Ph.D. in Marketing

What is a ph.d. in marketing.

A Ph.D. in marketing is the highest level of education you can earn. Course topics include marketing strategy, data analysis, microeconomics, and examining and researching consumer behavior.

How much can you make with a Ph.D. in marketing?

Your earning potential with a Ph.D. in marketing will vary depending on where you live and whether you pursue a career in academia or business. For example, marketing managers make a median annual wage of $140,040, while professors earn $80,840, the BLS reports.

How long is a Ph.D. in marketing?

Earning your Ph.D. in marketing will take between three and seven years, depending on the program and whether you enroll full or part time.

Is it worth it to get a Ph.D. in marketing?

Only you can determine if completing a Ph.D. in marketing is worth the time and investment involved. Completing a Ph.D. in marketing allows you to become an expert in the field and can increase your salary potential.

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Suzie loves researching, interviewing experts and breaking down complex information into understandable and actionable advice to help others improve their lives. Based in Denver, Suzie and her husband are parents to a 14-year-old boy, a 12-year-old girl and two rescue dogs.

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Best Doctorates in Digital Marketing: Top PhD Programs, Career Paths, and Salaries

There is a wide range of digital marketing jobs you can get if you have a doctorate. You can be a professor or researcher in academia or pursue roles in different industries. In this article, we show you the best PhDs in Digital Marketing that you can earn to advance your career. We also provide information on the best digital marketing jobs and salaries for professionals with PhDs in Digital Marketing.

What Is a PhD in Digital Marketing?

A PhD in Digital Marketing is the highest-level academic degree students can get in the field of digital marketing. This program entails more research work than coursework. Typically, doctoral programs take four to five years to complete.

Find your bootcamp match

How to get into a digital marketing phd program: admission requirements.

The admission requirements for a typical PhD in Digital Marketing are an online application for the program and official transcripts from your undergraduate or graduate education. Some schools also require standardized test scores, such as GMAT or GRE. You also need to submit your resume, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.

PhD in Digital Marketing Admission Requirements

• Official academic transcripts
• Test scores (GRE or GMAT)
• Letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose

Digital Marketing PhD Acceptance Rates: How Hard Is It to Get Into a PhD Program in Digital Marketing?

It’s hard to get into a PhD in Digital Marketing program. Acceptance rates for doctorate programs in the marketing field are low. On average, less than 10 percent of prospective students who apply to doctoral programs in digital marketing are admitted because schools only admit a low number of students to these programs every year.

How to Get Into the Best Universities

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Best PhDs in Digital Marketing: In Brief

Best Universities for Digital Marketing PhDs: Where to Get a PhD in Digital Marketing

Some of the best universities for getting a digital marketing PhD are Arizona State University, Duke University, Stanford University, The University of Texas, and University of Pennsylvania. If you’re wondering where to get the best PhDs in Digital Marketing, the following list will help you learn more about the accredited schools that offer doctoral degree programs in marketing.

Arizona State University (ASU) was first founded in 1885 as the Territorial Normal School in Tempe. Offering over 450 graduate degrees in fields such as arts, computing and mathematics, entrepreneurship, and healthcare, ASU welcomes more than 70,000 students every year. It has been recognized by US News & World Report as the most innovative national university . 

PhD in Marketing

ASU’s W. P. Carey School of Business offers a full-time residential Doctoral Degree in Marketing. It’s designed for graduate students who want to pursue research and teaching positions in marketing. Students can choose between consumer behavior, service strategy, and quantitative marketing models specializations to concentrate their digital marketing knowledge.

PhD in Marketing Overview

• Program Length: 5 years
• Acceptance Rate: 5-10%
• Tuition and Fees: $11,720 (in-state base tuition); $23,544 (out-of-state base tuition)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Teaching or research assistantships, loans and other financing options, Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

PhD in Marketing Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or higher
• GRE or GMAT test scores
• Undergraduate education transcripts
• Proof of English language proficiency (for international students)

Drexel University is a private research university that was founded in 1891. Its LeBow College of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) International. This college offers PhD programs in economics and business, as well as an executive doctorate program in business administration. 

PhD in Business with a Marketing Specialization 

In this full-time PhD program, students can choose between an economics-oriented track and a behaviorally-oriented research track. Development of marketing channel systems is one of the courses where digital marketing can be covered. To graduate, students must complete 45 credits and write and defend a doctoral thesis.

PhD in Business with a Marketing Specialization Overview

• Program Length: 4 years
• Acceptance Rate: 10%
• Tuition and Fees: $0 - All admitted students are considered for research and teaching assistantships which include a full tuition waiver
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Fellowships, teaching and research assistantships, research awards

PhD in Business with a Marketing Specialization Admission Requirements

• Minimum of 3.0 GPA in undergraduate programs and 3.3 GPA in graduate programs
• Transcripts
• GMAT or GRE scores
• Personal statement
• 2 letters of recommendation

Duke University is a private research university that was founded in 1838 in Trinity, North Carolina. The school has more than 80 Graduate School Departments, and over 3,000 graduate students are enrolled in its graduate programs. Duke University’s main goal is to give students the analytical and critical skills they need to succeed in their chosen field of study.

The PhD in Marketing at Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business aims to prepare students for successful careers in research and teaching. This program covers digital marketing through the effects of Internet search agents on consumer choice. To graduate from this program, students are required to write and defend a dissertation.

• Acceptance Rate: 11%
• Tuition and Fees: $28,950/semester (years 1-3); $4,000/semester (years 4+)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Tuition grants, research and teaching assistantships
• $95 application fee
• Academic transcripts
• Provide undergraduate GPA
• Statement of purpose essay
• English language proficiency test scores (for non-native speakers)

Georgia State University (GSU) is a public research institution founded in 1913. The university offers more than 150 graduate degree programs across nine different colleges. Innovation is central in GSU’s Graduate Schools, as the US News & World Report named it the second most innovative school in the country . 

GSU’s J. Mack Robinson College of Business prepares students for successful careers inside and outside academia. In this program, students learn to apply combined research and marketing methods to digital marketing. Its curriculum includes 15 hours of research courses, 18 hours of marketing courses, and nine hours of courses in the student’s area of interest. 

• Acceptance Rate: N/A
• Tuition and Fees: $4,776/semester (in state); $15,108/semester (out of state)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Teaching and research assistantships, doctoral fellowships
• Online application and $50 application fee
• GMAT scores
• College transcripts
• 3 letters of recommendation
• Immunization records

Harvard University was the first college founded in America in 1636. Its Harvard Business School (HBS) was later established in 1908. HBS is now considered one of the best business schools in the world. It offers doctoral programs in a wide variety of fields, such as accounting, management, economics, organizational behavior, and marketing. 

PhD in Marketing 

HBS offers a full-time Doctoral Degree in Marketing, which requires a minimum of 13 courses, including economics and psychology. Its machine learning, computer science, and statistics courses are useful for digital marketing analysis and application. To graduate, students need to complete a teaching engagement, pass the special exam, and write and defend a dissertation.

• Acceptance Rate: 4%
• Tuition and Fees: $0 (fully funded for 5 years)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Financial aid program, research support
• Online application and $105 application fee
• GRE or GMAT scores

Northwestern University is a private research institution founded in 1851. US News & World Report considers it one of the top 10 national universities in the country . It’s home to over 50 research centers and receives over $890 million annually in sponsored research awards. More than 13,000 students are currently enrolled in its 90 graduate degree programs.

This PhD in Marketing is offered through the Kellogg School of Management. It offers two concentrations in consumer behavior and quantitative marketing. It teaches students to become successful marketing researchers in various areas of marketing, including digital marketing. To earn a doctorate, students must complete 18 courses and maintain a GPA of 3.0. 

• Program Length: 4+ years
• Acceptance Rate: 7%
• Tuition and Fees: $18,689/quarter (8 or fewer quarters); $4,672/quarter (more than 8 quarters)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Fellowship stipend, teaching and research assistantships, tuition scholarships
• Courses taken form
• 3 recommendation letters
• Proof of English proficiency (for international students)
• Optional writing sample

Founded in 1855, Penn State University is a public land-grant research university with 24 campuses catering to graduate and undergraduate students. The university offers more than 190 graduate degree programs and around 100 graduate certificate programs. Penn State stays on top of the research field with over $1 billion in annual research expenditures.

Penn State’s Smeal College of Business offers PhD in Marketing in three specializations in consumer behavior, marketing management, and marketing models. All three of them provide valuable learnings applicable to digital marketing. The program’s graduation requirements entail the completion of all coursework, a qualifying exam, and a thesis dissertation.

• Program Length: 3+ years
• Acceptance Rate: 15%
• Tuition and Fees: $0 - Admitted students receive a tuition waiver and a monthly stipend guaranteed for five years
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Tuition waiver, monthly stipends, research assistantships, research funding options
• $65 application fee
• GPA and coursework
• GMAT, GRE or TOEFL scores
• Work sample, such as research papers or essays

Stanford University was founded in 1885, but it didn’t open its doors to students until 1891. In 1925, the Stanford Graduate School of Business was created. Its three full-time graduate degree programs are all accredited by the AACSB. Among this school’s faculty, there are five Nobel Prize laureates and five recipients of the John Bates Clark Medal in Economics. 

Students enrolled in this PhD in Marketing degree can choose between two areas of study in behavioral marketing or quantitative marketing. Its coursework for digital marketing include deep learning, machine learning, and consumer behavior. To graduate, students must pass a field exam, submit academic papers, and complete apprenticeships and a dissertation.

• Program Length: 2-3 years
• Acceptance Rate: 3.5%
• Tuition and Fees: $56,487/three quarters (if 11-18 units per quarter); $36,720/three quarters (if 8-10 units per quarter). 
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Fellowships, research and teaching assistantships, professional development grants. All incoming doctoral students in the Marketing PhD program are provided with financial aid for five years.
• Online application
• $125 application fee
• Official transcripts
• 3 letters of reference
• TOEFL score (for international students)

Syracuse University (SU) is a private research university established in 1870. It’s accredited by the Middle State Commission on Higher Education. SU’s graduate school offers more than 193 master’s degrees and 50 doctoral degrees across 13 schools and colleges. Over 1,400 doctoral students are currently enrolled in SU’s PhD programs.

PhD in Business Administration with a Marketing Major

SU offers a PhD in Business Administration with a Marketing Major through the Whitman School of Management. It has two areas of specialization, analytical modeling and empirical analysis, for quantitative marketing. Students need to earn 72 credits to complete this program. Other graduation requirements include submitting three research papers and a thesis.

PhD in Business Administration with a Marketing Major Overview

• Tuition and Fees: $1,802/credit hour
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Tuition waivers, yearly stipends, grants, fellowships, awards, teaching and research assistantships 

PhD in Business Administration with a Marketing Major Admission Requirements

• Recommendation letters

University of Arizona is a public land-grant research university founded in 1885. It offers more than 150 master’s degree programs and over 100 doctoral programs in a wide variety of fields. The university is known for its heavy investments in research and development, spending over $700 million in recent years.

The university’s Eller College of Management offers a full-time PhD in Marketing that prepares students for research-heavy and academic roles. Strategy, marketing models, and consumer psychology are some of the courses useful for a digital marketing career. The program’s coursework has 36 units in marketing, nine units in a minor subject, and 18 units of dissertation credits.

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• Program Length: 4-5 years
• Tuition and Fees: $14,600/academic year (in state); $34,800/academic year (out of state)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Teaching or research associateship
• $90 application fee
• TOEFL or IELTS scores (for international students)

University of California-Berkeley (UC Berkeley) was founded in 1868. At present, more than 5,000 graduate students are enrolled at UC Berkeley’s wide variety of doctoral degrees. The US News & World Report named UC Berkeley as the fourth-best global university in the country.

UC Berkeley’s Haas School of Business offers an interdisciplinary doctoral marketing program with two areas of research in consumer behavior and quantitative marketing. Both tracks require taking courses in buyer behavior and choice modeling or marketing strategy. To get this degree, students need to pass an oral qualification exam and write and defend a dissertation.

• Acceptance Rate: 9%
• Tuition and Fees: $14,442/academic year (in state); $29,238/academic year (out of state)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Financial aid, scholarships, fellowships
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
• Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
• $120 application fee
• GMAT or GRE test scores

University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) is an Ivy League research university founded in 1740. The Wharton School was established as UPenn’s first business school in 1881. The Wharton School offers nine graduate programs of study in various areas, including finance, management, and marketing. Currently, around 13,000 graduate students are enrolled in UPenn.

This interdisciplinary doctoral program in marketing offers a consumer behavior track and a quantitative track. Data analysis and research methods are some of the program’s courses, which can be best applied to digital marketing. To graduate, students need to complete a dissertation and at least 15 graduate-level course units.

• Acceptance Rate: 3%
• Tuition and Fees: $37,678/full program
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Financial aid awards, fellowships
• $80 application fee
• Official transcripts and academic history
• Personal statement essay

The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) is a public research university founded in 1969. Over 900 students are currently enrolled in the university’s doctoral degrees. UTSA is home to 32 research centers and institutes and offers a wide range of well-funded research partnerships.

UTSA offers its doctoral degree through Carlos Alvarez College of Business. This degree requires a minimum of 84 credits for students who previously obtained a bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 66 credits for those with a master’s degree. Its courses that are useful for digital marketing include strategy research and experimental design.

• Tuition and Fees: $575/credit hour (in state); $1,572/credit hour (out of state)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Annual stipends, research assistantships
• $50 application fee
• Personal statement of academic goals and interests

Can You Get a PhD in Digital Marketing Online?

Yes, you can get a PhD in Digital Marketing online. Northcentral University and Atlantic International University are some of the schools that offer online doctoral marketing degrees. You can also get a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in Marketing online. A DBA program focuses more on practical marketing applications, while a PhD program is designed for research and academic-oriented positions.

Best Online PhD Programs in Digital Marketing

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Digital Marketing?

It takes four to five years to get a PhD in Digital Marketing. Typically, students dedicate the first two or three years to completing the required coursework. During their second and third years, students are expected to complete a field exam. This exam measures their depth of knowledge and comprehension of the marketing field.

During the program’s remaining years, students must focus their efforts on research activities, a dissertation, and any additional graduation requirements. Such requirements can be to complete research or teaching assistantships. They can also be to submit academic papers to accredited publications and to participate in seminars.

Is a PhD in Digital Marketing Hard?

Yes, a PhD in Digital Marketing is hard. The average completion time of a PhD in Digital Marketing is between four and five years. The majority of doctoral degrees are full-time programs. This means that working outside while pursuing your degree won’t be possible. You’ll have to rely on funding options such as research assistantships to support yourself while you are studying.

A doctorate can also be hard because of the program’s coursework and graduation requirements, which will require a lot of hard work and dedication. In general, students have to complete courses in advanced digital marketing topics, as well as courses in complex disciplines like statistics. They also have to complete the program’s dissertation requirements.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a PhD in Digital Marketing?

It costs approximately $12,171 per year to get a PhD in Digital Marketing at a public institution, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). The tuition for a doctoral degree at a private university can cost between $14,208 and $27,776 per year.

Many universities offer affordable graduate tuition rates. An example is Georgia State University, where in-state students pay $4,776 per semester, and out-of-state students pay $15,108 per semester. Moreover, there are plenty of funding opportunities for digital marketing PhD students.

How to Pay for a PhD in Digital Marketing: PhD Funding Options

The PhD funding options that full-time students can use to pay for a PhD in Digital Marketing are tuition waivers, fellowships, research assistantships, and teaching assistantships. Most schools also offer PhD students plenty of financial aid options to reduce their expenses. Some schools even provide stipends to help students with other living costs.

Best Online Master’s Degrees

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What Is the Difference Between a Digital Marketing Master’s Degree and PhD?

The difference between a digital marketing master’s degree and a PhD is the job outlook for graduates. Master’s degree programs are great for career advancement because they teach the necessary skills for various executive positions in the marketing field. PhDs are terminal degree programs designed to prepare students mostly for careers in academia.

Doctoral degrees are a necessity in a range of job roles in the academic field, such as college professor or tenure researcher. Doctorate programs take approximately five years to complete, while master’s degrees can be completed in only two years. Because of this, getting a PhD in Digital Marketing will give you more advanced knowledge of the marketing field.

Master’s vs PhD in Digital Marketing Job Outlook

Digital marketing professionals with a PhD have advanced skills and knowledge for academic positions in postsecondary education. This field has a job outlook of 12 percent . Professionals with a master’s degree can strive for a wide variety of digital marketing jobs across different industries. For example, market research analysts have a 22 percent job outlook .

Difference in Salary for Digital Marketing Master’s vs PhD

While a digital marketer with a Master’s Degree can get a median annual income of $93,000 , the average PhD in Digital Marketing salary is $106,000 per year based on PayScale data. This pay disparity exists because of the advanced skills and knowledge that a PhD graduate can offer in digital marketing roles.

Related Digital Marketing Degrees

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Why You Should Get a PhD in Digital Marketing

You should get a PhD in Digital Marketing because it’ll give you a proper knowledge of advanced topics and crucial research skills needed for various digital marketing jobs. Apart from gaining expertise, PhD graduates also enjoy low unemployment rates, higher salaries, and networking opportunities. Below, we discuss in detail the reasons for getting a PhD in Digital Marketing.

Reasons for Getting a PhD in Digital Marketing

• Lower unemployment. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, marketing professionals with a PhD have a lower unemployment rate at 2.5 percent than those with a master’s or bachelor’s degree. This can be partially because pursuing doctoral degrees make it easier for graduates to land digital marketing jobs in the academic field.
• Advanced knowledge. A PhD in Digital Marketing will give you advanced skills and knowledge. With this degree, you’ll also learn quantitative and qualitative research methods that are necessary for landing higher-paying digital marketing jobs in any field.
• Higher salary. Most companies tend to pay employees with higher education and experience more money. By earning a PhD in Digital Marketing, you’ll be able to make an annual salary of $106,000 or more, depending on your professional experience and where you work.
• Networking opportunities. A digital marketing PhD will give you plenty of opportunities to grow your professional network. Not only will you have the opportunity to meet other students with similar interests and passions, but you can also attend conferences and seminars. These events are where you can connect with experts from all over the world.

Getting a PhD in Digital Marketing: Digital Marketing PhD Coursework

Getting a PhD in Digital Marketing is a matter of completing the required course load and any other graduation requirements. The typical PhD coursework is broken down into core digital marketing courses, courses in other disciplines, and courses focused on research or how to prepare for your dissertation. Below are a few examples of the courses that students must take.

Consumer Behavior

Consumer behavior studies are the psychological and behavioral processes that influence people’s choices when buying or consuming products and services. With this course, graduate students will better understand how cultural and psychological variables tend to influence the behavior of consumers. They’ll uncover how this can be used for effective marketing strategies.

Introduction to Econometrics

Econometrics is a discipline that combines mathematical and statistical methodologies in order to quantify economic phenomena. With this course, students will learn how to use regression methods, such as nonparametric and linear regressions, to quantify and interpret relevant data. This is useful for students that want to pursue careers in digital marketing research.

Qualitative Research Methods

In digital marketing, qualitative research involves collecting and analyzing non-numerical data to understand phenomena that are useful in market research. With this course, PhD students will learn how to use qualitative research methods to gather data that can help in understanding all the factors and variables that influence consumers’ decisions.

Quantitative Marketing

Qualitative research is the process of collecting and analyzing numerical data. It’s a crucial step in statistical analysis. In this course, students will learn how to quantify and analyze the data gathered from surveys and polls answered by a target audience. This will help students draw insights based on the data gathered from market research focus groups.

Statistical Inference

Statistical inference refers to the process of deducing facts about a specific group of the population based on statistical data. This course will provide digital marketing students the skills necessary for working with statistical data. The use of statistical methods, such as statistical inference, is common in the marketing field, so it’s a crucial skill for digital marketers to learn.

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How to Get a PhD in Digital Marketing: Doctoral Program Requirements

To graduate, PhD students have to complete the doctoral program requirements. Common graduation requirements include completing the required coursework, completing the necessary teaching or researching requirements, and writing and defending a dissertation. Finishing these requirements is how to get a PhD in Digital Marketing.

Doctorate programs require students to complete the necessary coursework, as well as a minimum number of credits. Core courses include digital marketing courses and research methods courses. The coursework is meant to be finished in the first two years of the program. Students might be required to maintain a minimum GPA throughout their coursework.

Once students complete the required coursework, they are required to pass an exam meant to assess the depth of their comprehension of topics covered in the first years of the program. It’s also meant to measure the depth of advanced knowledge they learned through completing the required coursework. This examination can be a written exam or an oral examination.

PhD students are required to complete research requirements. These requirements include working as research assistants and completing a set number of hours or classes of teaching. You might also need to participate in research assistantships under experienced faculty members, participate in seminars and colloquia, and submit your research to academic journals. 

Teaching apprenticeship requirements can mean working as teaching assistants (TAs) during a set time frame from the total length of the program. Alternatively, you might need to complete a teaching engagement during a semester or a full academic year. This is a great opportunity for students who want to pursue teaching careers.

To get a PhD in Digital Marketing, you’ll have to write and defend a dissertation. Dissertations are where students show that they’re able to conduct independent research and present it in a well-organized manner. Dissertation requirements include writing a dissertation, presenting a dissertation proposal, choosing a doctoral dissertation committee, and defending the final dissertation.

Potential Careers With a Digital Marketing Degree

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PhD in Digital Marketing Salary and Job Outlook

The typical salary for marketing experts with a PhD is over $100,000 per year. There are plenty of job opportunities for PhD graduates, both in business and in the academic field. On average, there are more than 200,000 job openings for digital marketers with a PhD every year. Most marketing professions are expected to grow between eight and 14 percent in the next decade.

What Can You Do With a PhD in Digital Marketing?

With a PhD in Digital Marketing, you can apply to various senior-level positions in marketing or academia. Once you get your degree, you’ll have the skills and knowledge necessary to work in positions such as marketing manager, postsecondary education teacher, market research analyst, and public relations manager.

Best Jobs with a PhD in Digital Marketing

• College Professor
• Marketing Manager
• Market Research Analyst
• Public Relations Manager
• Postsecondary Education Administrator

What Is the Average Salary for a PhD in Digital Marketing?

The average annual salary for a PhD in Digital Marketing is $106,000. This salary varies depending on the specific digital media marketing field a professional decides to focus on. For example, digital marketers working in an academic environment earn an average of $96,910 per year. Marketing experts who work in marketing management earn $133,380 per year.

Highest-Paying Digital Marketing Jobs for PhD Grads

Best Digital Marketing Jobs with a Doctorate

The best digital marketing jobs with a doctorate are marketing manager, public relations manager, postsecondary education administrator, college professor, and market research analyst. These jobs require an advanced education degree because they need experts who know digital marketing trends very well and know how to apply research methods.

In this section, we discuss an overview of the best digital marketing jobs with a doctorate. We also provide details on the salary, job outlook, and highest-paying states.

Marketing managers plan effective marketing campaigns and evaluate promotional campaigns of businesses. These professionals possess leadership skills and advanced knowledge of advertising principles needed for identifying potential target markets for a specific product or service. They create promotional campaigns for target markets. 

• Average Salary: $133,380
• Job Outlook: 10% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 316,800
• Highest-Paying States: New York, New Jersey, California

Public relations managers create content, such as press releases, articles, draft speeches, and images for a company to reach its target audience. They also analyze the audience’s perspective of a business and create digital marketing strategies to shape or improve the business’s overall image.

• Salary with a Digital Marketing PhD: $119,860
• Job Outlook: 13% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 89,000
• Highest-Paying States: District of Columbia, Virginia, New York

Postsecondary education administrators oversee student services, academics, and sometimes, faculty research at private and public colleges and universities. These professionals need to have interpersonal, problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills. They also need experience in administrative settings to perform their job.

• Salary with a Digital Marketing PhD: $96,910
• Job Outlook: 8% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 178,800
• Highest-Paying States: New York, New Jersey, Delaware

College professors or postsecondary teachers in the digital marketing field develop outlines and syllabi for the courses they teach. They also plan individual lessons and assess their student’s progress through various assignments. 

• Salary with a Digital Marketing PhD: $79,640
• Job Outlook: 12% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 1,276,900
• Highest-Paying States: California, Rhode Island, New Hampshire

Market research analysts have a vast knowledge of quantitative and qualitative research methods that are widely used in the marketing field. They also have the analytical skills required for interpreting complex data. Their main responsibility consists of evaluating the market conditions and determining the potential sales of a product or service.

• Average Salary: $63,920
• Job Outlook: 14% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 740,900
• Highest-Paying States: Washington, Delaware, New York

Is a PhD in Digital Marketing Worth It?

Yes, a PhD in Digital Marketing is worth it because it provides more employment opportunities and a higher annual salary. With a doctoral degree, you can apply for academic positions, such as post-secondary education teacher or researcher. You can also apply in various industries as a marketing manager, public relations manager, or market research analyst.

Additional Reading About Digital Marketing

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PhD in Digital Marketing FAQ

Yes, you can get a PhD in Digital Marketing online. The best PhDs in Digital Marketing with a fully online format are offered by Northcentral University, Washington State University, and Trident University International. Liberty University offers online DBA programs, which have more hands-on experience than a traditional PhD in Marketing.

You should get a PhD in Digital Marketing because it’ll give you’ll learn in-demand skills and knowledge in marketing and research methods. Getting a PhD will not only ensure you earn a high annual income, but it’ll raise your chances of finding a good and rewarding job.

The digital marketing jobs that require a PhD are teaching and research positions in the academic field. If you want to pursue a career in academia, you must get a doctoral degree. While other digital marketing jobs might not require doctoral education, having a PhD will make you stand out from other candidates with a master’s or bachelor’s degree.

Yes, digital marketing is a good career choice. Digital marketers are one of the most in-demand professionals in marketing and advertising. Becoming a digital marketer will open a wide range of careers in business. The average salary of a digital marketing expert is approximately $50,000 per year, and the average PhD in Digital Marketing salary is over $100,000 per year.

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Curriculum & Coursework

Our programs are full-time degree programs which officially begin in August. Students are expected to complete their program in five years. Typically, the first two years are spent on coursework, at the end of which students take a field exam, and then another three years on dissertation research and writing.

The Marketing program draws on computer science, economics, behavioral science, and psychological methods to focus on marketing problems faced by the firm and its management. Through a combination of discipline- and field-based methods, the curriculum enables students to master concepts and research skills directly relevant to business problems. Candidates must come to understand the point of view of practicing managers and be able to bring theory and careful research to bear in illuminating important business problems.

The program requires a minimum of 13 semester-long doctoral courses. Students in the Marketing program are required to complete a year-long discipline sequence typically in microeconomics or psychology. They also complete courses in the areas of machine learning, computer science, statistics, research methods, academic field seminars, and two MBA elective curriculum courses. In addition to HBS courses, students often take courses at other Harvard Schools and MIT.

Research & Dissertation

Students in Marketing begin research in their first year typically by working with a faculty member. By their third and fourth years, most students are launched on a solid research and publication stream. The dissertation may take the form of three publishable papers or one longer dissertation.

Recent examples of doctoral thesis research include: The effects of brand extensions on the value of parent brands; Multi-method examination of the consumption of “knockoffs” of high status brands, and the counter-intuitive positive outcomes for consumer-brand relationships; Competitive analysis of pricing and quality decisions in industries with strictly complimentary products; The psychological effects of pricing, and how these affect consumers and firms; and "Choice amnesia," the motivated forgetting of difficult decisions.

Mengjie "Magie" Cheng

Ta-Wei "David" Huang

Byungyeon Kim

“ Finding an advisor who you really click with and who is willing to support your research interests is absolutely key. ”

Current HBS Faculty

• Juan Alcacer
• Tomomichi Amano
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Current HBS Faculty & Students by Interest

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Top 10 Best PhD in Marketing Programs in the US [2024]

How deep do you want to dive into the ever-growing marketing field? A marketing background is a lucrative education choice that brings you applicable expertise for any industry. These days, marketing managers  make upwards of $130,000 per year. A master’s in marketing  is a great start.

But a PhD in marketing takes your career to the highest levels, though not only for individual businesses. You can take that expertise and dive deeper into research or pursue a teaching career in academia.

What are the best marketing PhD programs, and where can you find them? We’ve put together a solid list that even includes online marketing PhD programs for you to choose from!

Table of Contents

Best Marketing PhD Programs and Schools

Arizona state university, w. p. carey school of business, phd in marketing.

ASU was ranked no. 1  by the US News and World Report on its list of the most innovative schools. In this PhD marketing program, you can choose between three tracks: consumer behavior, quantitative marketing models, and service strategy. There are also core courses shared by all streams, which cover research methods and marketing models.

• Duration: 5 years
• Tuition : $11,720 per year
• Acceptance rate: 88.4%
• Location: Phoenix, Arizona

Harvard University, Harvard Business School

Harvard University is a world-renowned Ivy League  university known for its strength in research. This program draws on various disciplines, such as research methods, statistics, computer science , machine learning, and field seminars. After the first two years, students can embark on their dissertation. Although the Harvard Business School offers this program, doctorate candidates can also collaborate with other Harvard schools and MIT.

• Courses: 13
• Tuition : $50,928
• Acceptance rate: 5%
• Location: Boston, Massachusetts

The University of Wisconsin, Wisconsin School of Business

The Wisconsin School of Business has a strong reputation for its excellent faculty and reasonable tuition. The school’s core research areas for their marketing PhD are quantitative modeling, marketing strategy, and consumer behavior. Interested in a research position at a university, or teaching a specialized course? You’ll find many network opportunities if you enroll in this prorgam.

• Tuition: Refer tuition page
• Acceptance rate: 57.2%
• Location: Madison, Wisconsin

Carnegie Mellon University, Tepper School of Business

Phd program in marketing.

Carnegie Mellon University is based in Pittsburgh but has campuses all over the world. Their marketing PhD program covers topics like brand-choice models, marketing/operations interface, and theories of consumer behavior. Students are supported by excellent faculty to pursue quality research in specialty areas like behavioral and experimental economics , high-tech marketing, and two-sided market pricing.

• Duration: 4 to 5 years
• Tuition : $47,000 per year
• Acceptance rate: 17.3%
• Location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

The University of Colorado Boulder, Leeds School of Business

The University of Colorado Boulder is the flagship institution of the University of Colorado system and has nine schools and colleges offering around 150 programs. Its PhD in marketing is an advanced degree covering experimental and statistical methods, predictive modeling, quantitative marketing, and theory building, with crucial courses built around consumer behavior and quantitative modeling.

• Tuition : $2,811 per credit
• Acceptance rate: 84.2%
• Location: Boulder, Colorado

The University of Missouri, Robert J. Trulaske Sr. College of Business

The University of Missouri is a public land-grant university that offers high-quality but affordable education. Its PhD program in marketing focuses on developing teaching and research skills and helps students prepare for careers in various research settings. The program offers small class sizes and promotes a collaborative environment.

• Semester hours: 72
• Tuition : $414.60 per credit hour
• Acceptance rate: 81.8%
• Location: Cornell Hall | Columbia, Missouri

Florida International University, College of Business

Phd in business administration (marketing).

FIU College of Business is a world-renowned institution that falls within the top 5% of elite business schools globally and has been ranked second  in the nation for international business programs. Its PhD in Business Administration with a focus on marketing equips students with the knowledge necessary to establish successful careers in academics and research. The program’s key courses include marketing research methodology, advanced data analysis, and statistical methods in consumer research.

• Duration: 4 years
• Tuition : $10,935.36 per year
• Location: Miami, Florida

Drexel University, LeBow College of Business

Drexel University is a well-known private research institution and center of higher learning that emphasizes experiential learning. Its PhD in marketing program covers both the macro and micro aspects of marketing, though with a greater focus on the microelements. You can also choose between electives in economics-oriented or behavior-oriented subjects. Economics-oriented courses include econometrics and advanced microeconomics, while behavior-oriented includes multivariate analysis, and behavioral science research.

• Tuition : $2,000 per credit hour
• Acceptance rate: 77.2%
• Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Liberty University

Online doctor of business administration (dba) – marketing.

Looking for online marketing doctoral programs? Liberty University offers various fully online programs flexible enough for working professionals. Its DBA program in marketing includes strategic marketing management, supply chain management, marketing research, and marketing promotions. As one of the only fully-online marketing PhD programs available, it is ideal for working professionals who want to keep a balance between work and study. The program also lets you transfer up to 50% of credits from previous degrees.

• Credit hours: 60
• Duration: 3 years (average)
• Tuition : $595 per hour
• Acceptance rate: 50.1%

Grand Canyon University, College of Doctoral Studies

Doctor of business administration (dba): marketing (quantitative research).

Grand Canyon University is the largest private Christian university with almost 100,000 students. Unlike a qualitative DBA, which attempts to analyze topics using insights into how and why people think and behave, this quantitative DBA focuses on analysis by interpreting numeric data. This online doctorate in marketing includes courses about quantitative data collection and analysis, the complexity of marketing, and digital technology (a PhD in digital marketing is a great specialty!) and consumer behavior.

• Credits: 60
• Tuition : $702 per credit
• Acceptance rate: 80.7%

Should I Get a Doctorate in Marketing?

With a doctorate in marketing, you’ll be eligible for various high-level roles in academia, business, and research. These positions can offer salaries anywhere from $55,000 to $155,000, making the degree a valuable qualification for your CV.

Of course, like any discipline or program, a marketing PhD has advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages of Having a PhD in Marketing:

• Excellent career prospects:

A PhD in marketing will qualify you for roles at the highest levels of business management, which you otherwise might not access with a master’s alone. Alternatively, you use this degree to pursue a career in academia and research.

• Job opportunities in academia:

A PhD is a prerequisite if you want to teach marketing at a post-secondary level or pursue certain research career paths.

• Scope for innovation:

A PhD in marketing helps you contribute to advances in the field, especially in cutting-edge areas like artificial intelligence and natural language processing. In contrast, a master’s degree has a smaller scope for research.

Drawbacks of a PhD in Marketing:

• You have to wait to launch your career:

Studying a PhD is a serious time investment: it takes around five years to complete for most people. Of course, this is after you’ve already completed your bachelor’s and master’s degrees, so it will take you an average of 11 years before the degree brings you higher on the career ladder.

• It’s a balancing act:

By the time you start your PhD, you might have a family to take care of. As a result, managing your studies, research, and family could be a challenge.

How to Choose a Marketing Doctoral Program?

With so many options, you might have trouble picking from the top marketing PhD programs. Here are some essential factors to consider before deciding:

1. Your career goals

You might be able to build a worthwhile career in marketing with a master’s degree . But for heavy research and academic or teaching work, you’ll need a PhD. If you’re not interested in teaching or research, you might reconsider the time and financial commitment needed to complete a marketing PhD.

2. Accreditation

Check each school you’re considering for their regional accreditation. Some marketing programs may even have programmatic accreditation to look out for. This is an important factor in picking a reputable program that’s attractive to potential employers.

3. Mode of delivery

If you’re already a working professional, full-time, on-campus study might not be an option for you. In this case, you must look for a PhD in marketing online that offers remote learning and flexibility.

These are just a few ideas to keep in mind. Weigh all your options and listen to your gut feeling in the end.

Alternatives to a Marketing Major

Marketing is a specialized discipline with well-defined objectives, needing specific skillsets. However, in today’s interconnected world, various disciplines share many of the same concepts.

You can still build a high-level career in marketing with qualifications in different fields, like:

• Advertising
• Data analytics
• Strategic management
• Analytical management
• Production management

Careers with a PhD in Marketing

A PhD in marketing can open doors to various top-level roles.

Here are some of the most common roles for professionals with a marketing doctorate, with the median annual salaries for each:

• Marketing Manager ( $67,696 )
• Market Research Analyst ( $55,742 )
• Chief Executive Officer (CEO) ( $156,413 )
• Professor (Marketing) ( $89,181 )

What Do You Need to Get into a Marketing Doctoral Program?

Every marketing PhD program has specific admission requirements. Always double-check by referring to the admission webpage or contacting a school representative. Usually, a master’s degree in a related field is required for admission.

Most programs will also require:

• A statement of purpose , research proposal, or both
• Letters of recommendation
• Academic resume
• GRE/GMAT scores may or may not be required

PhD Marketing vs. Master’s Degree: Which is Better?

A master’s degree in marketing is a career-oriented qualification that can propel you into a meaningful marketing career for a variety of corporations or small businesses. On other hand, marketing PhD programs are generally research-based and will give you more specialized knowledge that equips you for a career in the academic sphere.

PhDs also require a much more significant time and financial commitment.

PhD in Marketing FAQs

What can you do with a phd in marketing.

Popular career choices for marketing PhD grads include market research analysts, chief marketing officers, and marketing professors. This advanced degree will not only equip you for roles in senior management, but also the fields of research and academia.

How Many Years is a PhD in Marketing?

A PhD in marketing typically takes five years to complete. However, some universities allow you to earn your doctorate in as little as three years, though usually only if you have enough transfer credits. At the other end of the scale, your PhD may push out to up to seven years.

Is There a PhD in Marketing?

Yes. Many universities offer a PhD degree in marketing, as well as online marketing doctorate programs for working professionals. Some schools also offer a comparable DBA (Doctor of Business Administration)..

Can I Do a PhD in Marketing After an MBA?

Yes, you can do a PhD in marketing after completing an MBA. In fact, you might consider completing a DBA to be more in line with your studies.

Key Takeaways

You can access a wealth of career opportunities available with an MBA or another master’s degree . But if you want to open more doors in research and academia, a PhD in marketing is the way to go. With so many online study options, it’s easier now than ever to complete a remote degree while juggling work or a family.

If you want to explore more options for excellent advanced degrees, take a look at our guides for:

• Best online PhD in Psychology programs
• History PhD programs
• Best PhD programs in California

Lisa Marlin

Lisa is a full-time writer specializing in career advice, further education, and personal development. She works from all over the world, and when not writing you'll find her hiking, practicing yoga, or enjoying a glass of Malbec.

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Top 10 Online Doctorates in Marketing 2019

Online doctoral degrees in business are a fairly recent phenomenon, growing out of an increasingly competitive professional and executive job market where every credential counts. But a PhD in Marketing online program? That’s real new – so new, there are only a few out there to begin with. But getting an online marketing doctorate also opens up the possibility of making a PhD in Marketing salary – giving graduates access to all of the higher-authority, higher pay-grade positions that make the big bucks.

You’re not necessarily looking for a PhD in Marketing online – much more commonly, business schools offer a specialized Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree , which is an applied doctoral degree focused on real-life application. A PhD in Marketing online program supplies working professionals with the theory, research skills, and knowledge to solve real-world problems, lead teams of experts, and direct high-level marketing campaigns. And a specialized PhD in Marketing online gives students the marketing-specific knowledge that they won’t get, for instance, from a doctorate in project management , or a general management PhD .

Ranking the Top PhD in Marketing Online

Demand for online doctoral programs is increasing and, as technology makes it easier, universities, both public and private, are responding by providing access to various online doctoral degrees. This list ranks the best universities for PhD in Marketing degrees based on a reputation that we hope will help guide decisions in picking a top tier school. The Online PhD ranking of the Top 10 Online Doctoral Programs in Marketing takes into account accreditation, general reputation, and cost. Schools are ranked according to three data sources:

Recommended Online DBA Programs

• Cost (Current IPEDS data)
• Reputation (Current Niche grade)
• ROI (Current College Scorecard alumni salary data)

All schools on the list are accredited at the time of this list’s posting; most are regionally accredited, while some have national distance education accrediting. Several universities also have special program accreditation.

1. Liberty University – Lynchburg, VA

best online colleges in Virginia.

The Liberty University online DBA in Marketing degree program equips corporate leaders to be experts in management principles and market research. Further, students will become familiar with principles in advertising, promotions, and best practices in regards to consumer behavior. Students gain knowledge of how to work within both domestic as well as international markets. To be admitted to the 60-credit, fully-online, ACBSP-accredited DBA in Marketing, students must already have an MBA or related business master’s degree. Besides a one-week intensive orientation on campus, all coursework is fully online, with a cohort format providing stability and support for online students.

Degree: DBA in Marketing Cost: $ $$$$

2. Grand Canyon University – Phoenix, AZ

Grand Canyon University is a Phoenix, Arizona-based institution that was founded in 1949. The university began as a Southern Baptist college, but after financial troubles at the turn of the 21st century, Grand Canyon became the first for-profit Christian university. While it is no longer controlled by the Baptist church, Grand Canyon’s curriculum still approachs education through a spiritual lens. In recent year, Grand Canyon University has become especially well-known for its online degree programs, which are largely focused on the needs of working professionals in areas like nursing, education, and business. In 2018, the regionally-accredited Grand Canyon was approved to return to nonprofit status by the Higher Learning Commission.

Grand Canyon’s online DBA in Marketing degree program is designed to train leaders and executives in theoretical and practical application of marketing. The ACBSP-accredited marketing doctoral degree trains the student to analyze consumer behavior, markets and the ability to analyze them and to propose perceptive strategies for success in business. During the course of the program, students begin work on their dissertations from day one, learning how to do extended research, finding a topic of interest, and learning from mentor faculty along the way. Students take part in two four-day residencies with onsite faculty, also giving students an opportunity to meet fellow colleagues in the program, but all other coursework is online. Grand Canyon also offers optional dissertation writing retreats in order to help students work on their prospectus, dissertation proposal, or final dissertations.

Degree: DBA in Marketing Cost: $$$ $$

3. George Fox University – Newberg, OR

George Fox University dates back to 1885, when Quaker pioneers decided their new settlement needed a higher education option for their families. Today, nearly a century and a half later, GFU is Oregon’s top Christian university, and one of the most diverse universities in the state of Oregon – a third of GFU students belong to a minority. GFU is a comprehensive institution, providing the close personal attention and support of a small liberal arts college along with the resources and professional preparation of a major doctoral university. That spectacular combination has made George Fox University a regular fixture on rankings of the best regional universities in the West.

The GFU online DBA in Marketing degree program prepares students for high-level leadership positions or academic positions related to marketing, from George Fox’s uniquely Christian worldview. The online DBA is designed for working professionals – either working businesspeople who want to transition into research and academia, or to enter executive positions – and its convenient hybrid format combines fully online coursework with brief, twice-yearly on-campus meetings. GFU brings Christian ethics and faith alongside the most current business and marketing skills to train business leaders for service and success.

4. Argosy University – Los Angeles, CA

Argosy University began with the merger of three for-profit institutions – a psychology school, a medical school, and a business school, the oldest of which was founded in 1961 – which were combined and acquired in 2001 to form Argosy. Today, Argosy is regionally accredited, offering a variety of undergraduate and graduate degree programs for working adults and experienced professionals. Argosy is particularly known for its many online and hybrid degree programs in health sciences and business. In 2017, Argosy ended years of financial difficulties when it was bought out by the Dream Center Foundation, a Christian education system (Assemblies of God) that intends to make Argosy a nonprofit university.

Argosy’s online DBA in Marketing degree program is intended for experienced, working professionals in business and marketing careers; in fact, applicants must have at least 3-5 years of work experience, as well as a master’s degree in business or a related field (which may include law or engineering management), to apply. The online DBA is intended to build on the skills learned in a master’s program and active work experience, giving students the advanced research application skills they need to take on higher-level leadership positions.

Degree: DBA in Marketing Cost: $$ $$$

5. Keiser University – Fort Lauderdale, FL

Keiser University is a private, non-profit institution with 15 campuses across the nation, with the headquarters being located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The school offers both onsite instruction as well as online courses. Founded in 1977 as a small tech school, Keiser’s original mission was providing higher degrees in health and business for working adults. In just three decades, Keiser had grown into a full, comprehensive university, adding a multitude of professional programs in highly in-demand areas. While Keiser was a for-profit institution for most of its history, in 2011 the college became a nonprofit, keeping its regional accreditation and making a clear statement about its focus on students’ success.

Keiser University’ online DBA in Marketing degree program prepares students to work within a national and global marketplace with awareness of business ethics and organization at the center of each specialization. The program prepares students to become university researchers and teachers, or to occupy senior positions in business or government, working within a national and global marketplace with awareness of business ethics and organization at the center of each specialization. Courses are 8 weeks, and students can take two courses simultaneously as opposed to the usual one at a time. The program is 60 graduate credits long with 54 of those credits needing to be completed at Keiser University. Admissions into the program requires the student have obtained an accredited master’s degree in business administration, and to have two years of full-time management experience.

6. Walden University – Minneapolis, MN

When New York teachers and education reformers Bernie and Rita Turner first imagined Walden University, it was as an experimental way for teachers to complete their education doctorates. Students would meet with dissertation advisors and return home to work on their own time. That was in 1970, long before anyone imagined the internet being widely available, but by 1995, Walden was regionally accredited and launching the first fully-online education graduate degree programs in the nation. Today, Walden is one of the primary names in online education, from business to health sciences, frequently ranked among the top online degrees in the world.

Walden’s online DBA in Marketing degree program focuses on the real-world work of marketing, helping experienced business professionals reach the highest levels of theory, knowledge, and expertise. With an emphasis on top-notch research, writing, and communication, Walden’s DBA prepares students for executive positions, developing strong analytical and leadership skills to guide marketing campaigns of all kinds. Students learn about consumer behavior, product development, market segmentation, and other concepts that make them competitive on a global level. All coursework is online, though students will attend two 4-day residencies during their program; 49 credits and a dissertation are required to graduate.

7. Pace University – New York NY

Pace University dates back to 1906, when brother Charles and Homer Pace opened their private business school in Manhattan – what was then the New York Tribune Building, and now is the site of 1 Pace Plaza. Clearly, the Pace brother did well for themselves, bringing accessible business, accounting, and law classes to the world’s financial center, growing into one of the city’s most recognizable names in business education (not to mention business incubators and a public secondary school). Today, Pace is also known as one of the foremost names in online education, offering a full slate of online degree programs.

The Pace University Doctor of Professional Studies (DPS) degree program is a unique approach to business higher education. Unlike a PhD or DBA, the DPS is an applied degree, not a research or academic degree, focused on real-life application; as such, the DPS is particularly well-suited to high-ranking and accomplished working professionals who want to enhance their current careers, as opposed to those looking for advancement or a career change. The DPS in Marketing combines fully-online coursework with a monthly on-campus meeting to develop knowledge and networking connections between students. The Pace name assures students of a return on their investment.

Degree: Doctor of Professional Studies Cost: $$$$ $

8. Trident University – Cypress, CA

Trident University began in 1998 with a mission to provide accessible, applicable education opportunities for military personnel and veterans. Once part of the Touro College and University System, Trident became independent in 2007, and has earned a reputation as a top-ranked, regionally-accredited online educator. With a curriculum designed for working adults, more than three-quarters of Trident’s student body are related to the military, whether as active-duty, reserves, veterans, or some other connection. Trident uses an outcomes-based distance learning model called EdActive, once an experimental education model called Robust Learning, and Trident is still committed to useful degrees that change lives.

Trident’s online DBA in Marketing degree program is intended for working professionals who already have a master’s degree, and who are looking for a terminal degree to give them an edge in advancing to the highest levels of authority. Trident’s emphasis on applied research gives students the foundation for making decisions and leading organizations with a strong, data-driven expertise. Coursework is fully online, requiring no residencies, but students can develop mentoring relationships with their faculty advisors and professors that can help guide them in their education and their career paths.

Degree: DBA Cost: $$ $$$

9. Northcentral University – San Diego, CA

Northcentral University was founded in 1996 as one of the earliest all-online universities, and by 2003 the university had grown in esteem and reputation enough to earn regional accreditation by the WASC. Today, Northcentral is a for-profit, completely virtual university and is classified as a research institution by the Carnegie Classification. Northcentral is especially known for its business programs, and in addition to regional accreditation, claims program accreditation from the ACBSP, a national standard for business higher education. With a long history offering opportunity to working adults, Northcentral is stronger and more respected than ever.

Northcentral University’s online PhD in Business Administration emphasizes the biggest challenges in the global economy and research involving tracking the issues in the global arena. Students in the PhD-BA program can choose a specialization focusing on marketing management and research to help them move beyond the basics and equip marketing specialists who can manage all of the elements in the product life cycle both for international and national contexts. The program looks to prepare specialists to work in non-profits, corporations, government agencies, higher education, and in the role of entrepreneur.

Degree: PhD in Business Administration, Marketing Cost: $$ $$$

10. California Miramar University – San Diego, CA

California Miramar University was founded in 2005, buying out the former Pacific Western University-California to establish a new university; that gave CMU automatic recognition by the state of California, while national accreditations by the ACICS and the Distance Education and Training Council gave the new university a further layer of reputability. This young university is growing and earning a national and international reputation for its business programs, including fields like business administration and computer information systems. Fully online degree programs have made CMU a choice for students all over the nation, as well as international students, providing working adults a convenient way to increase their credentials.

California Miramar’s online DBA degree program is designed to turn working professionals into scholars of business, providing the most current research and theory and helping students develop their research, writing, and communication skills. With the CMU DBA, student become qualified to make real contributions to learning and knowledge in business marketing, from contributing to scholarly journals to taking on academic roles. Students may also use their DBA to enhance their current managerial or executive positions. All coursework is fully online, but students must attend final exams on-campus, or arrange for an official proctor in their home area.

Degree: DBA Cost: $$$ $$

Embrace the convenience of online learning and shape your own path to success.

Explore schools offering programs and courses tailored to your interests, and start your learning journey today.

2024 Best Online PhD in Marketing Programs [Doctorate Guide]

Is it beneficial to pursue a PhD in Marketing online when marketing is essentially a practical business skill?

In the wake of shifting consumer behaviors and evolving media and communication landscapes, there’s enormous change happening in some fundamental areas of marketing science and methods.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

As a result, a number of marketing leaders are viewing online Ph.D. programs as an intriguing next step in their careers.

Online PhD in Marketing Degree Programs

Large marketing campaigns and multinational marketing initiatives can require big investments.

Effective marketing strategies can involve complex market survey methods, concepts related to consumer behavior, and tactics that rely on skillfully deploying AI and machine learning software. There are inward-facing marketing strategies too, such as sales team training, sales force investment strategies, and pricing strategies.

Online marketing doctoral degree programs can offer you the opportunity to pursue expertise in a range of topics:

• Market modeling and forecasting
• Consumer behavior and psychology
• Services marketing methods
• Multinational marketing
• Advanced research methods and applications

As you start exploring online marketing PhD programs, you’ll discover that schools vary in their curriculum designs and in the areas of specialization that they offer.

Marketing PhD Careers & Salaries

Getting an online PhD in Marketing can open doors to a variety of opportunities. Experts in the field may seek roles in senior marketing management, business development, private consulting, or research and academia.

Important segments within the field of marketing include branding, market research, creative content development, pricing strategy, salesforce management, customer retention, and marketing analytics.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , marketing qualifications and related skills are applicable to many well-paid careers.

Marketing efforts typically require collaboration between many specialized designers, copywriters, advertisers, and sales team members. Professionals with marketing expertise often lead and monitor larger marketing teams and initiatives.

In other cases, a marketing professional might specialize in e-commerce startups or in highly entrepreneurial settings. Information-age innovations are changing marketing tools and strategies, so this could be a strategic time to advance your education and research in this fast-changing field.

With a doctoral degree, you might also consider teaching in postsecondary institutions, working with business and marketing consulting firms, serving in marketing management or freelancing as a marketing consultant.

Marketing Doctorate Curriculum

Online PhD marketing programs vary by school. Most will give you a chance to study more advanced topics in the field, choose a distinct focus area, such as buyer behavior vs. modeling and analytics, and engage in experimentation and research.

• Buyer Behavior and Psychology : You’ll explore and extend key concepts related to the study of buyer behavior, examining and modeling key findings and experimental research.
• Social Psychology in the Market Place : You’ll learn how to profile consumer culture, psychology, and behaviors and how to translate this data into strategic marketing insights.
• Product Development and Pricing Strategies : You’ll learn advanced methods and strategies for product pricing and positioning in relation to specific marketing objectives.
• Digital Branding : You’ll learn about experimental approaches to comprehensive digital branding strategies relevant to large businesses, multinational footprints, and entrepreneurial contexts.
• Market Modeling and Forecasting : You’ll learn analytic tools and practices that will allow you to provide valuable analytic modeling for data-driven marketing and decision making.
• Applied Marketing Models : You’ll explore and test modeling tools in conjunction with different objects of analysis, such as buyer behavior, conversion rates, or marketing ROI.
• Multinational Marketing : This course will give you tested strategies for scaling up all aspects of marketing operations for large-scale business settings.
• Marketing Technology : You’ll examine current topics in marketing technology innovations and applications and related ethical topics.
• Services Marketing : This course helps you apply strategies specific to both entrepreneurial and large-scale e-commerce initiatives.
• Quantitative and Qualitative Research Models : You’ll study scientific marketing analysis methods in the context of key aspects of marketing psychology, marketing communications, and marketing investments.

These are just examples of courses you might take in a PhD marketing program. While courses and their content will vary by school and program, you can expect to learn from seasoned marketing management professionals and to engage in advanced topics and analytic thinking and research.

How to Choose an Online Doctorate in Marketing Program

Just as when exploring online bachelors degree in marketing or online MBA in Marketing programs, it can also be helpful to consider your own interests, professional goals, and gaps in knowledge as you look for online marketing PhD programs.

• Concentration offerings . You can look for a program with study tracks and specializations in the branches of marketing that most interest you.
• Flexibility . There are many online program options, so you may want to decide if you need or prefer a program with more flexible asynchronous study options.
• In-person vs. online . You may want to avoid hybrid programs if you don’t want any in-person learning requirements or expect you’ll be living too far from campus.
• Program preferences . Academic rigor, faculty qualifications and accomplishments, tuition costs, and the required number of credit hours can all vary significantly from school to school. You may want to look for schools offering a learning experience that meets your expectations.

As you check out different programs, you may get an even clearer picture of your different options and what kinds of curriculum designs are available to choose from.

Admissions Requirements

Some online doctorate in marketing programs require you to have a masters degree, but others don’t. Admissions requirements can vary greatly by school and program. Some common requirements include:

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree
• GRE or GMAT scores (if required)
• Satisfactory GPA
• Relevant professional experience
• Letters of recommendation (if required)

Relevant work experience may be required more often for a professional doctorate than a PhD program. Admissions officers may request additional criteria as well to ensure that you’re prepared for doctoral-level coursework.

Accreditation

A school with regional accreditation has been evaluated by an outside agency and has been found to meet standards of academic quality. An accrediting organization also evaluates a school’s student services.

Accreditation can impact credit transfers as well as financial aid offers. These are just a few of the benefits of sticking with fully accredited schools and programs. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) has more information about accreditation as well as a database of accredited schools.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Many professionals who qualify rely on financial aid to help them advance their education.

Need-based financial aid might be available to you in the form of federal or state aid. You may also pursue financial assistance through employer-based tuition programs and need-based or merit-based scholarships.

Student loans are part of many financial aid packages. Terms for loans and aid packages can vary, so it’s beneficial to review all offers carefully. If you’ll be applying for need-based aid, you can start by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) .

Marketing Professional Organizations

If you know you’re headed for a career in marketing, it’s never too soon to connect with one of the professional associations in the field:

• American Marketing Association (AMA)
• eMarketing Association (EMA)
• Society for Marketing Professional Services (SMPS)

The benefits of your membership can include keeping up with industry trends, finding out about professional development offers, and boosting your networking opportunities.

Should I Get a PhD in Marketing?

There could be many reasons why someone pursues a PhD in Marketing. Each person’s motivations can differ greatly, but here are a few benefits of earning a marketing PhD:

• A sense of personal accomplishment . If you have a passion for marketing and the profession, you may want to get a PhD to live out that passion.
• Senior roles and higher pay . Getting a PhD can boost your resume, and a PhD program can help you qualify for senior roles in the field. In addition, a doctoral education often leads to higher earning potential.
• Opportunities in academia . Getting a PhD, conducting original research, and writing a dissertation can all be essential first steps for building a career in academia.
• Intellectual drive . If you like probing topics and following new threads of thought and research wherever they lead, a PhD program can provide an outlet for abstract inquiry and for rigorous applications of scientific method and analysis.

Pursuing a PhD can be very rewarding, but it also requires a big commitment. It can be beneficial to weigh your own pros and cons before enrolling in a doctoral program.

What Can You Do with a PhD in Marketing?

With a PhD in Marketing paired with work experience, you could be qualified to pursue senior or leadership roles in marketing.

Some marketing specialists work in senior advertising, promotions, or marketing roles. Depending on your specialization, you might also qualify to work in financial analysis roles. A professional in this position can help companies analyze marketing investments and returns or help manage a private marketing firm.

Some marketing professionals with a PhD continue actively learning and researching, applying their research interests and accomplishments in consulting roles or in academia.

How Much Does a Marketing Manager Make?

How much you make as a marketing manager can vary based on your professional skills and experience, where you live, and what kind of organization you work for.

That said, effective marketing investments and strategies can directly drive revenues and profits for many companies. This kind of success can also reward marketing directors with good pay.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, advertising and marketing managers, financial managers, sales managers, and public relations managers are careers that, on average, reward workers with salaries well above $100,000. The median annual salary for marketing managers in particular is $142,170.

How Long Does a PhD in Marketing Take?

How long it takes to get an online doctorate in marketing can vary by school and program. The time you need to complete a dissertation can also impact how long your doctoral program takes.

Marketing doctoral programs generally take 3 to 5 years to complete. If no dissertation is required, it may be possible to finish in 3 years with full-time study.

What’s the Difference Between Marketing vs. Advertising?

Advertising is just one of the many components within marketing. Marketing managers may have the following responsibilities:

• Oversee marketing budgets
• Coordinate marketing strategy
• Manage marketing team members, such as advertisers and copywriters
• Study consumer behavior, market trends, and marketing economics

Advertising specialists typically do the following:

• Work within a larger marketing team
• Create advertising campaigns for specific products and services
• Plan how to promote a specific product or service
• Create advertising collateral with the input of marketing team members

Both marketers and advertisers can engage in creating concepts and branding. Marketing directors, though, tend to use research and business decision-making skills to inform broad branding and marketing strategies. They measure marketing results, and advertisers create actual ad collateral for specific products or services.

What’s the Difference Between a DBA vs. PhD in Marketing?

In marketing and other professional fields, getting a professional doctorate is a common alternative to getting a PhD. A DBA is a professional doctorate in business administration, and marketing is a common concentration option.

Here are some key differences between the two types of degrees:

A doctorate in business administration is less specialized than a degree in marketing, so you may want to look into online DBA programs that offer a marketing pathway.

What’s the Difference Between Digital Marketing vs. Social Media Marketing?

Social media marketing is a component of digital marketing. Both of these marketing strategies live in a digital world and seek to build out a company’s digital presence.

• Digital marketing : Digital marketing seeks to attract and engage prospective customers through both direct advertising online and through many forms of less directive online content.
• Social media marketing : This specialty field within digital marketing focuses on using social media platforms to engage prospective customers through social media posts, ads, and conversations.

While social media marketing specifically utilizes social media platforms to create ads and build brands, digital marketing utilizes a wider range of tools and resources. For example, digital marketing can encompass websites, landing pages, blog posts, and email campaigns.

Is a PhD in Marketing Worth It?

Yes, a PhD in Marketing is worth it for many professionals. Marketing is a highly competitive, essential, and dynamic branch of business strategy and marketing management. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 7% job growth for marketing managers over the next ten years.

A marketing PhD program can help you develop your expertise and learn new marketing concepts, such as content marketing, social media marketing, and service marketing. PhD graduates may seek senior marketing roles, work in business and marketing consulting, or even pursue jobs in academia, so this marketing degree is worth it for many people who want to work in this field.

Universities Offering Online Doctorate in Marketing Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

Alliant International University offers an online program for a Doctor of Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing.

The program can usually be completed in 3 years and includes an internship and a dissertation. Applicants must complete a faculty interview, have a master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0, and submit a personal statement, resume, and 2 letters of recommendation.

Alliant International University  is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Bellevue University offers a Doctor of Business Administration program with a number of courses focused on marketing. To graduate, students must complete 91 credit hours, with 36 credits coming from the student’s master degree. Applicants must have a Master of Business Administration or 5 years of work experience in the field.

Bellevue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

California Baptist University offers an online Doctor of Business Administration program with a number of courses focused on marketing. To graduate, students must complete 56 credit hours, including a dissertation. Applicants must have a Master of Business Administration and need to submit a resume and a personal statement when applying.

California Baptist University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.

California Southern University offers a Doctor of Business Administration with a number of concentrations for students to choose from.

To graduate, students must complete 60 credits, including a 14 credit doctoral project and a comprehensive essay examination. Applicants must submit official transcripts, a government-issued ID, and a personal statement when applying.

California Southern University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

City University of Seattle offers an online Doctor of Business Administration program.

Students in the program may add a 12 credit specialization of their own design by proposing a Specialized Study to the program director. To graduate, students must complete 91 credits. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher, 5 years of professional experience, and 3 references.

City University of Seattle is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Concordia University—Chicago offers an online Doctor of Business Administration that includes a number of marketing courses. To graduate, students must complete 60 credit hours, a dissertation, and 3 residencies. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher and 5 years of experience.

Concordia University Chicago  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Drexel University offers an Executive Doctorate in Business Administration.

This part-time program allows students to learn about a number of business-related fields, including marketing. To be eligible for the program, applicants must have a graduate degree with a GPA of 3.3 and need to submit GMAT or GRE scores, an essay, and 2 letters of recommendation.

Drexel University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Felician University offers a Doctor of Business Administration program with courses on marketing theory.

The program is self-paced and completely online. Students must obtain 61 credits and finish a dissertation to graduate. To be eligible for the program, applicants must have an MBA and need to submit a resume, official transcripts, and a personal statement.

Felician University  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Florida International University offers a Doctor of Business Administration program that includes courses on marketing.

Though the program is online, four 2-day residencies are required. The program usually takes 3 years to complete, with the final year dedicated to a dissertation. To be eligible for the program, applicants must have 10 years of work experience. Florida International University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Franklin University offers a Doctor of Business Administration with a focus area in marketing.

The program requires 58 semester hours to be completed and can usually be finished in 3 years. To graduate, students must maintain a GPA of 3.0. Applicants must have 30 hours of graduate courses in a business field with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Franklin University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

George Fox University offers a Doctor of Business Administration with the option to add a concentration in marketing.

Students must complete 56 credit hours to graduate. The courses are offered online as cohorts, but two 4-day residencies on campus are required. Applicants must have a bachelor’s and master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. George Fox University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Grand Canyon University offers an online Doctor of Business Administration in Marketing. Students must complete 60 credit hours, including a dissertation, to graduate. Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and need to submit an online application with official transcripts to be eligible for the program. Grand Canyon University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Johnson and Wales University offers a Doctor of Business Administration that includes a number of marketing courses.

The program can typically be completed in 3 years and classes are 8 weeks long. To graduate, students must obtain 54 credits, including a dissertation. Applicants must submit official transcripts and have 2 references willing to fill out an online survey.

JWU  is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Liberty University offers an online Doctor of Business Administration in Marketing. The program usually takes 3 years to complete. Courses can be taken online and are 8 weeks long. To graduate, students must complete 60 credit hours. Applicants must have a master’s degree in a business-related field with a GPA of 3.0 or higher.

Liberty University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

LIGS University offers a PhD in Marketing. The program can usually be completed online in 3 years. Students must finish 10 courses, including 2 electives and 2 specialization courses of their choice. To be eligible for the program, applicants must have a master’s degree and need to submit a CV, an official transcript, and government-issued ID.

LIGS University  is accredited by Accreditation Service for International Schools, Colleges and Universities.

National University offers a PhD in Business Administration with a specialization in Strategic Marketing. To graduate, students must complete 20 courses, which can be taken online. The program offers weekly start dates, allowing students to apply at any time. To be eligible for the program, applicants must have a master’s degree.

National University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Temple University offers a Doctor of Business Administration program with the option to take courses in marketing. To graduate, students must complete 54 credit hours, including a dissertation in the final year. Applicants must submit a letter of recommendation and 2 essays and take part in an interview.

Temple University  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Thomas Edison State University offers a Doctor of Business Administration program with courses in Marketing.

Students may complete 13 courses that are 8 weeks long over the course of 32 months. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a GPA of 3.0. If an applicant’s GPA is less than 3.0, applicants may submit a resume and a personal statement to improve their application.

Thomas Edison State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Trident University International offers a PhD in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing. To graduate, students must complete 10 classes and a dissertation. A comprehensive exam is held at the end of each course. To be eligible for the program, applicants must have a master’s degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher.

Trident University International  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The University of Dallas offers a Doctor of Business Administration online program. Among the courses required to graduate is one dedicated to marketing and marketing research.

To graduate, students must complete a dissertation and 33 other credits. Those interested in the program must fill out an online application with 2 letters of recommendation and a resume before attending an admission interview.

The  University of Dallas  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The University of Missouri—St. Louis offers a Doctor of Business Administration. To graduate, students must complete 60 credit hours, including courses in marketing and a final dissertation. Those interested in the program must submit an application with a resume, 2 references, official transcripts, and 2 essays.

The  University of Missouri-St. Louis  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The University of South Florida offers an online program for a PhD in Business Administration with the option to add a Marketing Concentration. The program requires 72 credit hours and usually takes 3 years to complete. Applicants must submit a resume, a transcript, and a statement of purpose.

The  University of South Florida  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Walden University offers a Doctor of Business Administration in Marketing. Students have 8 years to complete the minimum requirement of 37 credit hours.

While the courses are online, two face-to-face academic residencies are required as well. Applicants must complete an online application that includes employment history, academic history, and official transcripts.

Walden is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

Westcliff University offers a Doctor of Business Administrations program with a number of courses in marketing.

Students must complete 50 credit hours to graduate, including a final dissertation project. Applicants must submit an application with official transcripts from all previously attended post-secondary schools, a personal statement, and government-issued ID.

Westcliff University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Wilmington University offers a Doctor of Business Administration program with an advanced marketing seminar.

To graduate, students must complete 54 semester hours and a dissertation or research project. Courses are 7 weeks long and can be taken completely online. Applicants must submit an application with official transcripts, a resume, and 3 letters of recommendation.

Wilmington University  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Earning Your PhD in Marketing Online

Today’s marketing experts can make valuable contributions to a company’s success. With so many new and evolving marketing management strategies and communication channels, advanced studies in marketing may offer you increased career value.

If you like business dynamics and have a penchant for rigorous, systematic study and research-design methods, you might be well suited for this intriguing online graduate degree pathway.

If you’re ready to advance your education and expertise in this lucrative field, you can start by exploring online PhD marketing programs from accredited universities.

The 9 Best Online Doctorates in Marketing

• The estimated out-of-state tuition per credit hour rate.
• The number and quality of the programs flexibility-enhancing components, including the ability to accelerate time-until-degree, the ability to garner credit for life or work experience, generous transfer policies, or competency-based crediting.
• Dissertation required
• Advanced Marketing Research Class
• Economics and Statistics Work
• Advanced Business Research Methods Class

1.) Grand Canyon University

FEATURED ONLINE PROGRAMS

Create integrated marketing campaigns that are driven by strategic objectives, reach clearly defined audiences, and deliver desired results. You’ll discover the power of brands and determine how to craft, deploy, and measure campaigns from start to finish. Receive hands-on experience as you evaluate traditional and digital marketing communication tactics and dig deep into marketing trends: social, mobile, email, search, and more.

Highlights:

• Top 100 university
• 100% online

2.)Liberty University

3.)LIGS University

4.)Keiser University

5.) California Miramar University

6.)Trident University

7.)Northcentral University

8.)Walden University

9.)Argosy University

Previous Post: What can I do with a Bachelors in Marketing?

Next Post: The 10 Best Online Masters in Marketing Research

The Best Online Doctorate in Marketing Programs

Are you ready to discover your college program?

Marketing continues to evolve with technology’s influence on society. With corporations relying on consumer data to guide operational strategies, the need for employees with contemporary marketing skills grows more important each year.

Featured Online Schools

As a marketing student, you will plant yourself in a field that not only adapts to the consumer, but also plays an influential role in consumer expectations and perceived needs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, marketing research analyst positions are projected to grow 23% through 2026, leading to the emergence of more than 138,000 new jobs over the next decade. A doctorate in marketing online program can prepare you for a variety of interesting and financially rewarding careers in the field.

For career information, skip down:

• What Else Can I Expect from an Online Doctorate in Marketing Program?
• Accreditation for Online Doctorate in Marketing Degrees
• Online Doctorate in Marketing Careers

Paying for Your Online Doctorate in Marketing

Liberty university.

• Campus + Online
• In-State $15,417
• Out-of-state $15,417
• Retention Rate 81%
• Acceptance Rate 51%
• Students Enrolled 85,586
• Institution Type Private
• Percent Online Enrollment 92%
• Accreditation Yes

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What Else can I Expect from an Online Doctorate in Marketing Program?

Doctorate in marketing online programs provide in-depth examinations of numerous business topics, including finance allocation strategies, supply chain management, and marketing communication. The following curriculum offers an example of a typical DBA marketing online program. While degree content differs by school, students will likely complete some variation of the following courses.

Curriculum for an Online Doctorate in Marketing

• Brand and Product Management: This course familiarizes students with strategies used to promote a product’s image, including the development of positive consumer perceptions and packaging design. Students learn how to generate marketing plans that meet the needs of both the consumer and the corporation. This Ph.D. in marketing online course qualifies students for careers as marketing managers and chief brand officers.
• Business Ethics: Often using case studies to drive points, this course prepares students for careers governed by ethical conduct. Course topics focus on contemporary ethical issues faced by businesses and stakeholders, including environmental protection, equitable treatment of employees, and fiscal transparency. Additionally, this course examines legal implications of business practices from a global perspective.
• Consumer Behavior: Preparing students for careers as marketing research analysts, this course provides an overview of the theories that explain consumer behavior. Students learn how marketing strategies promote customer loyalty and satisfaction. This course emphasizes consumer behavior analysis and equips students with skills needed to develop and implement methods for gathering consumer data.
• Research Methods: In this course, students acquire the skills needed to independently conduct research. In examining scholarly research projects and identifying appropriate research methodologies for data collection and analysis, this course prepares distance learners for careers as marketing consultants, college professors, and marketing research analysts.
• Supply Chain Management: This course explores how corporations secure resources and produce goods. Students acquire knowledge of supply chain management strategies and cover topics in logistics, purchasing, and efficiency. Students gain an understanding of risk-sharing and supply and demand analysis. Sales managers and supply chain analysts rely on knowledge of supply chain strategies.

How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Doctorate in Marketing?

Comprised of approximately 60 credits, doctorate in marketing online programs vary slightly in length and structure. Students typically earn their degree in four or five years, with some programs allowing students up to seven years to complete their degree. Full-time students who follow a program’s prescribed degree plan may earn their doctorate in as little as 39 months. Degrees with built-in specializations typically do not require additional coursework; however, if a student opts to pursue another concentration, the curriculum requirements may extend the length of time necessary to graduate.

Many graduate programs use a cohort model, while others may offer individualized plans of study. Cohort programs group newly admitted students together into a course plan that they follow until graduation. These programs selectively admit students one or two times each year. Individually paced programs tend to offer several start dates, and students take courses at their convenience. Both cohort and individually paced programs may feature eight-week or 16-week courses.

Accreditation for Online Marketing Doctorate Degrees

Schools acquire accreditation to provide quality assurance practices that reflect national standards both deparmentally and institutionally. Regional accreditation is the primary accrediting type sought by colleges in the United States. More than three quarters of universities maintain regional accreditation. Nationally accredited schools typically offer trade-based programs. Although frequently featuring lower tuition rates, programs offered by nationally accredited schools may not be recognized by regionally accredited institutions.

Accredited schools and programs must participate in peer reviews and self studies to continue receiving endorsements from their accreditors. The Distance Education Accrediting Commission provides quality control measures for online programs, and the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) is the accrediting body for business programs. Doctorate in marketing online programs accredited by the AACSB demonstrate national standards in areas, such as professional ethics training, curriculum with an international scope, and quality instruction.

In order to be considered an authoritative accreditor, accrediting agencies must gain recognition from the Department of Education (ED) and Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). The ED and CHEA require accrediting agencies to demonstrate the strategies in which they hold schools and programs accountable. Accredited entities must adhere to guidelines stipulated by their accreditors. Students starting their DBA in marketing online may review the ED and CHEA accreditation databases for a list of all accredited schools and programs in the country.

Employment Outlook for Doctorate in Marketing Graduates

Doctorate in marketing careers.

With a curriculum that includes advanced training in business strategies and research methods, a Ph.D. in marketing online program affords students numerous career opportunities. Graduates may pursue careers with nonprofit corporations, businesses, and in academia. Many graduates of DBA marketing online programs also lead flexible careers as consultants in a freelance capacity. Regardless of the occupational setting, these professionals possess traits that lead to success, including analytical and critical thinking skills, strong written and verbal abilities, and creativity.

• Median Annual Salary: $63,230
• Projected Growth Rate: 23%
• Median Annual Salary: $129,380
• Projected Growth Rate: 10%
• Median Annual Salary: $104,700
• Projected Growth Rate: 8%
• Median Annual Salary: $121,060
• Projected Growth Rate: 9%
• Median Annual Salary: $76,000
• Projected Growth Rate: 15%

Doctorate in Marketing Salary

Marketing Careers by Experience Students of doctorate in marketing online programs look forward to incomes as they gain professional experience. The table below depicts salary trends for five marketing careers, with data from Payscale. This illustrative comparison of entry level, mid-career, and advanced career employee salaries indicates increased annual earnings across the board with hikes up to 100%. For example, marketing directors with less than five years of experience earn a median annual income of $51,000, while those with 20 or more years of experience enjoy a median annual income exceeding $100,000. Earning a DBA marketing online positions students for leadership roles in the areas featured below.

Professional Organizations in Marketing

Professional organizations provide doctorate in marketing online students with a host of resources that are often free to members. Joining a professional organization, such as the American Marketing Association, allows students and entry level professionals to broaden their employment opportunities through online networking. Members receive access to global job listings and annual conferences at reduced rates. Most professional organizations feature continuing education programs that incorporate the latest marketing practices into their curriculum. Additionally, professional organizations frequently offer certifications to provide professionals with a competitive edge when seeking employment.

• American Marketing Association (AMA): The AMA promotes excellence in marketing through its continuing education events, career resources, and scholarly publications. Members receive access to more than 100 instant streaming webcasts that discuss the most recent trends in marketing.
• Insights Association : The Insights Association began in 2017 when two market research organizations combined. This professional organization’s numerous functions include government legislation and advocacy, the promotion of evidence-based practices, and stimulating business growth for its members.
• Sales Management Association : With an emphasis on sales force effectiveness, this international professional organization caters to professionals working in sales operations, management consultation, and business education. This organization features a blog and a media/branding guide.

Funding a doctorate in marketing online program may be one of the biggest hurdles for prospective students. Fortunately, opportunities for financial assistance are abundant. The federal government serves as a major funding source, offering several financial assistance programs that help students meet tuition requirements. Students complete the FAFSA to determine federal aid eligibility. Students may also qualify for low interest federal loans, grants, and work study programs.

In addition to federal financial aid, students may receive monetary support through scholarships and grants. Offered by colleges, organizations, and private donors, scholarships cater to students from diverse backgrounds. Several scholarships are available to women, minorities, and first generation college students. Doctoral students may also apply for grants, which could potentially cover the cost of textbooks and help fund research projects. Scholarships and grants require no repayment.

Tuition reimbursement programs provide students with another affordable option that allows them to earn their Ph.D. in marketing online while avoiding high tuition costs. Several national corporations, such as Procter & Gamble and Wells Fargo, help employees return to school by offering hefty tuition reimbursements. Some businesses pay up to 90% of a student’s tuition.

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Top 25 PhD in Marketing Online Programs 2024

Find your perfect school.

In this ranking, we profile the top 25 PhD in marketing programs delivered via distance education.

While online PhD programs are limited, few accredited PhD marketing degrees are offered online from ranked colleges and universities. One alternative to the PhD in marketing online program is the DBA in marketing. We researched a number of schools and programs to find the 25 best PhD in marketing or DBA in marketing online degrees. Below is our ranking methodology.

Top 25 Doctorate Marketing Online Ranking Methodology

Featured Programs

We looked at 48 colleges and universities listed by the Center for Educational Statistics (NCES) College Navigator that offered PhD in marketing and Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) marketing online degree programs. We narrowed our original pool of schools to the 25 top PhD marketing programs by applying the following criteria: accreditation by a reputable governing body, the online pathway for DBA marketing programs or PhD in marketing programs, and institution rankings with at least one major publication like U.S. News. We then listed the top 25 PhD in marketing programs online according to raw affordability.

Below are the results of our top 25 PhD in marketing and DBA marketing degree programs available online.

#1 – Trident University International

Cypress, california.

Trident University International offers an online DBA for those seeking an alternative to the PhD marketing online degree. The online DBA is offered 100% online and represents the highest level of achievement for business professionals. Admission to the online DBA at Trident requires an earned MBA or master’s degree in business administration and a completed online application. Once accepted, students begin taking online courses. You will take 36-48 semester credits of core courses. If you have transfer credit, Trident accepts up to 12 semester credits. Some of the required courses cover topics like applied statistics for research in business and management, and technology and business process improvement. Trident ranks with major publications like U.S. News as a top national university and is the #1 most affordable online DBA in marketing program on our list.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $6,120

#2 – California Miramar University

Doctorate degree in marketing online, san diego, california.

California Miramar University’s online DBA offers four areas of specialization, including marketing. The marketing concentration is designed to focus on marketing management and research that moves beyond the fundamentals and core courses typically found in MBA programs. In fact, the marketing specialization covers advanced topics designed to prepare students for careers as marketing leaders. These courses include advanced international marketing, advanced marketing research, business administration career practical training, marketing communications, pricing theory and practice, and strategic marketing. Courses are delivered online and taught by California Miramar’s experienced faculty. This school lands a top spot on our list due to its marketing specialization and highly affordable graduate tuition.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $7,020

#3 – Westcliff University

Irvine, california.

Westcliff University offers one of the most affordable alternatives on our list to the PhD marketing online degree program. Like other online DBA programs, the Westcliff online DBA covers coursework found in most PhD in business programs and offers specialty classes in areas like management and marketing. Some of the program’s courses cover topics like corporate social responsibility, creative solutions leadership, finance for managers, global business initiatives, marketing strategy and consumer behavior, and strategic planning and implementation. Near the end of the program, students complete a final project and dissertation. Westcliff earns a spot on our list due to its affordable graduate tuition. Also, the school is accredited by WASC and DEAC, and currently a candidate for global accreditation by ACBSP.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $13,050

#4 – Kennesaw State University

Online phd in business administration, kennesaw, georgia.

Kennesaw State University’s PhD in business administration is a non-traditional doctoral degree accredited by the AACSB. PhD students interested in pursuing an academic concentration have four choices: accounting, information systems, management, and marketing. During the first two years of the program, students complete cohort-based and discipline-specific coursework consisting of 36 credits. While some business administration courses are online, the degree is considered a hybrid program, with some course requirements met on campus. Kennesaw State ranks with major publications like U.S. News. In fact, the most recent publication of Best Colleges ranks the school #293-#381 in best national universities and #72 in most innovative schools.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $5,238

#5 – Liberty University

Online marketing doctorate, lynchburg, virginia.

Liberty University offers a 60-credit alternative option to the PhD marketing degree. Eight-week courses and 100 percent online instruction make the online DBA in marketing one of the most convenient doctoral programs for working students. Since Liberty is a Christian college, all courses within the degree are taught from a biblical worldview. Some of the required courses for PhD students cover key concepts in marketing promotions, marketing research, strategic marketing management, and supply chain management. The average completion time for the online DBA with a marketing specialization is three years. U.S. News ranks Liberty among the top national universities. In fact, Liberty ranks #293-#381 in best national universities. Also, the online graduate business programs, including the DBA in marketing, ranks #98 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $7,847

#6 – Saint Leo University

Online doctor of business administration, saint leo, florida.

To secure marketing PhD jobs, one must earn either a PhD in marketing or DBA. Saint Leo University offers one of the best online DBA programs with courses in marketing and consumer behavior. The program is ideal for individuals pursuing careers as college professors, consultants, executive managers, or marketing managers. According to the program website, courses may be completed online and are taught by Saint Leo’s esteemed marketing professors. Course topics include analytics for decision making, global leadership and ethics, global perspectives in human resource, management learning seminar, and strategic management in global organizations. To be admitted to the program, applicants must hold a master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution with a 3.25 GPA. Also, Saint Leo ranks with U.S. News as the 25th best regional university in the South and 5th best value school.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $15,218

#7 – University of Maryland

Adelphi, maryland.

If you are seeking marketing PhD jobs, doctoral training programs such as the one offered at University of Maryland, stands out. This 48-credit online DBA program covers an array of topics applicable to marketing, management, and business careers. For example, course requirements include data analytics in practice, designing evidence-based management solutions, evidence-based research methods, interpreting and translating management theory in practice, and research as a tool for management decision making. According to the program website, all courses for marketing students are online and are taught by University of Maryland’s experienced faculty. In addition to accreditation to award online doctoral programs, the university is ranked by major publications like U.S. News & World Report. In fact, University of Maryland ranks among the top regional universities in the North and #20 in most innovative schools.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $9,072

#8 – Wilmington University

New castle, delaware.

As one of the top online schools in the nation, Wilmington University offers an online DBA for individuals hoping to land marketing PhD jobs in the future. The program is designed to enhance the skills, knowledge, and competencies of doctoral candidates, making them equipped to make significant contributions to any organization. Like many of the doctoral programs in this ranking, the online DBA at Wilmington is IACBE-accredited, 100% online, and flexibly designed to fit busy work schedules. Courses cover topics in business, marketing, and management. Some course topics marketing students will likely see within the program include advanced marketing management, ethics in business and management, executive decision-making, global management models, managing innovation and change, and statistics for research. U.S. News ranks Wilmington as a top national university.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $9,000

#9 – Concordia University

River forest, illinois.

The Concordia University online DBA marketing degree is a flexible, online program that can be specialized by taking marketing and human behavior courses. Sixty credits and three years of study earn the online DBA at Concordia. Courses cover a number of advanced business and marketing topics. These topics include business analytics and financial decision making, foundations of the doctoral experience, global business operations, global concepts in strategic marketing, strategy formation and innovation, and the global leader – social responsibility and ethical decision making. Individuals interested in marketing may earn a marketing innovations specialization by taking the following courses: advanced research, consumer global and multicultural marketing, and integrating distribution channels and customers. Concordia University ranks #72 in best regional universities in the Midwest and #35 in best value schools.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $9,090

#10 – Grand Canyon University

Doctorate degree marketing online, phoenix, arizona.

In terms of doctoral programs, Grand Canyon University offers an alternative path to the PhD marketing degree. The online DBA in marketing allows doctoral students to specialize their studies in consumer behavior, segments, and trends through distance education courses and two or three five-day residency experiences. Program courses cover topics such as analysis of existing research, digital technology and consumer behavior, emerging issues in financial management, the history and philosophy of marketing, and the sustainable future. A total of sixty credits are required, along with a dissertation, to satisfy degree stipulations. GCU ranks with major publications like U.S. News. In fact, the most recent rankings for GCU include #293-#381 in best national universities and #42 in top performers on social mobility.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $10,621

#11 – Bellevue University

Bellevue, nebraska.

Bellevue University’s online DBA is an alternative pathway to PhD marketing online degrees. With no dissertation requirement and online courses, the online DBA is a convenience doctoral degree for working professionals. Students may earn their doctoral degree in just three years and entirely online. Courses cover finance, business, management, and marketing topics. In fact, some of the courses include business and society, finance for business leaders, managing the challenges of organization development and change, strategic marketing decisions, content marketing, and sustainable business development. Bellevue is a regionally ranked institution. In fact, U.S. News ranks Bellevue as a top regional university in the Midwest.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $10,980

#12 – Florida International University

Miami, florida.

Florida International University’s online DBA is offered as a track under the online PhD marketing degree. Designed for senior-level professionals, the online DBA consists of 72 credits, face-to-face and online classes, and a three-year curriculum format. Courses cover a number of business and marketing concepts, such as analysis of corporate policy, marketing and behavioral theory, qualitative and quantitative research methods, brand management and philosophy and process of applied business research. In addition to online coursework and a research project, three-day and two-day residencies take place periodically. FIU holds regional accreditation and ranks with major publications like U.S. News. In fact, these rankings include #218 in best national universities and #63 in most innovative schools.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $8,912

#13 – University of Missouri

Saint louis, missouri.

An online DBA can offer students similar skills and experience that a PhD marketing online program offers. In fact, the online DBA at University of Missouri, allows students to earn a doctoral degree with a research concentration in all areas of business administration, such as marketing. This three-year, cohort-based program offers flexible distance education courses, with limited monthly visits to campus. Courses for marketing students cover topics like contemporary marketing intelligence and decision making, strategic business analysis, sustaining and disruptive information technologies, the role of accounting information in firms and markets, and internet marketing. University of Missouri holds regional accreditation. Rankings from U.S. News include #281 in best national universities and #140 in top public schools.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $12,528

#14 – Thomas Edison State University

Trenton, new jersey.

In terms of doctoral training programs, Thomas Edison State University offers an online DBA in marketing degree program designed for individuals interested in personalized instructional delivery. The adult-centric cohort design offers fully online instruction and one-on-one mentorship from leaders at the university. While there is no specific marketing emphasis, marketing students interested in this discipline may elect the organizational leadership or general management concentrations, which feature marketing coursework. Examples of courses often taken in the online DBA program at Thomas Edison State include critical thought and informed action – models of decision making and organization achievement, seminar in marketing and entrepreneurship, seminar in strategic planning and organizational effectiveness, and the global business context – trends, issues, and markets. One of the leading online colleges, Thomas Edison ranks with major publications like U.S. News among the top regional universities in the North.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $12,024

#15 – Baker College

Flint, michigan.

One of the best online schools, Baker College offers options for individuals seeking PhD marketing online programs. The online DBA provides online classes led by Baker instructors with years of experience in the business world. Doctoral students gain valuable experience of their own through a combination of classes, professional residencies, research papers, and seminars. A total of 60 credits is required to earn the DBA degree. Courses cover topics from business management to marketing. For example, course topics include corporate and personal ethics, doctoral writing and literature review, introduction to research methods and designs, knowledge management and information systems, and quality improvement and organizational change. Baker College, recognized by U.S. News, ranks among the top regional universities in the Midwest.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $12,510

#16 – Johnson & Wales University

Providence, rhode island.

When seeking future marketing PhD jobs, an online DBA from Johnson & Wales University will help, especially if you want a shorter pathway to a doctoral degree. This three-year DBA program offers flexible and convenient online courses, no residency requirements, and a quick completion time. Each course runs eight weeks in length, giving students an ability to move through classes quickly. Also, students focus on one course at a time, which adds to the convenient format. Courses cover topics like business analytics and intelligence, contemporary issues in finance and accounting, innovation and change, organizational behavior, organizational strategy and design, and problems and methods in marketing management. Johnson & Wales University ranks with U.S. News as the 80th best regional university in the North and earns a spot on our list of affordable online DBA marketing programs.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $14,706

#17 – California Baptist University

Riverside, california.

Individuals seeking online DBA degree programs in marketing will find options available at California Baptist University. The 50-credit hour business administration degree offers eight-week online courses, a cohort model, and dissertation process. Most students enrolled in PhD programs like this one complete their doctoral degree in just three years, though additional time is allowed. For those interested in marketing, DBA coursework covers a number of related topics. Some of the courses offered include applying economic theory to business, international business in global markets, management of organizations, market research, content marketing, and strategic marketing. According to U.S. News, California Baptist University ranks #43 in best regional universities in the West.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $13,590

#18 – George Fox University

Newberg, oregon.

George Fox University offers doctorate in marketing degree programs designed to prepare students for marketing PhD jobs following graduation. Through an online, hybrid format, students earn their doctoral in business degree in four years by taking three years of coursework and one year to work on their dissertation. The ACBSP-accredited program is one of the few programs available to offer a concentration in marketing. Concentration courses cover topics such as advanced topics in digital marketing, consumer behavior, leadership skills, and research design in marketing. To be admitted to the DBA in marketing program at George Fox, applicants must hold a bachelor’s and master’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Also, only full-time faculty appointed students or those with five years of professional experience may qualify for admission. Due to its high-quality degree programs, George Fox ranks #246 in best national universities by U.S. News.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $14,158

#19 – Temple University

Philadelphia, pennsylvania.

In terms of doctoral programs, Temple University offers an online DBA marketing degree program designed for executive-level professionals through the Fox School of Business. The business administration program uses applied theory and data-driven market research to educate graduate students on the pathway to a doctoral degree in business. For those online students interested in marketing, classes cover a number of related topics. In fact, courses include innovation and entrepreneurship in the new economy, integrative perspectives on business knowledge, navigating the global marketplace, digital marketing, and problem solving using qualitative research methods. While business courses are online, six on-site weekend residences per year occur during the first two years. In addition to quality education, Temple offers prestigious rankings from U.S. News. Rankings include #104 in best national universities and #99 in best value schools.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $17,388

#20 – Northcentral University

Doctorate marketing online.

At Northcentral University, there are options for earning an online doctoral degree in marketing. This degree is similar to the PhD program in marketing in that it prepares business leaders and marketing experts through market research, application, and theoretical practices. A total of 48 credit hours and 16 courses are necessary to satisfy the degree requirements. PhD students finish their degree, on average, in 39 months. Upon graduation, NCU marketing doctorate online candidates secure positions in academia, advertising, consulting, leadership, and management. Aside from being accredited, Northcentral University ranks with top publications like U.S. News. In fact, the online MBA and other graduate online business programs rank among the top 200 and top 300 programs in the nation.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $16,881

#21 – Alliant International University

Alliant International University offers a DBA in marketing for those interested in PhD marketing online programs. By choosing the marketing doctorate online concentration, students earn a DBA with specialized study in marketing. Online students pursuing PhD programs in marketing take classes that cover topics such as consumer research, human behavior, managing growing organizations, organizational learning and adaptation, political strategy, and social influencing. The program has received accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). In addition to accreditation, Alliant is recognized by U.S. News as a top national university. Alliant earns a top spot on our list of online PhD in marketing programs for its affordability and marketing specialization options.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $19,484

#22 – Keiser University

Fort lauderdale, florida.

Whether you are seeking a PhD marketing online program or online Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), Keiser University has options for business professionals serious about the next step in their career. The online DBA at Keiser is offered through the online graduate campus. Designed for career professionals, classes are offered entirely online and in a flexible and convenient format. Three areas of specialization allow PhD students pursuing marketing degrees to develop knowledge in disciplines like global business, management, and marketing. The online DBA with a marketing emphasis covers a number of topics that appeal to marketing professionals, including digital marketing, market research, brand management, and consumer research. Courses combine hands-on problem-solving with applied and theoretical research, offering practical study that can be used in various areas of business and marketing. Keiser ranks with U.S. News & World Report as the 272nd best national university.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $29,632

#23 – California Southern University

Online dba in international business.

California Southern University offers a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) marketing degree program designed for those interested in a PhD program in marketing. Through the international business concentration, several marketing courses offer exposure to global marketing practices. Also, while online students may elect to earn a concentration in international business, they may create their own degree by taking various courses that appeal to interest and meet career goals. This customized design in known at the Cal Southern designer degree. Business administration courses appealing to marketing professionals include brand management; consumer behavior, theory, and analysis; and project management strategic design. A comprehensive exam may be required. The program requires the completion of 60 credits and takes four years (full-time status) to complete.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $32,700

#24 – University of Dallas

Online doctor of business administration (dba), irving, texas.

The University of Dallas offers an alternative pathway to a PhD program in marketing for online students. The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program is rigorous research-based program designed for working business professionals. The online DBA at University of Dallas consistently ranks with major publications and offers the highly coveted AACSB International accreditation. Comprised of a three-year, 61-credit course of study, students receive blended classroom learning with online instruction. Courses at UD cover topics like applied marketing research, applied statistics analysis, becoming an applied researcher, designing applied research, qualitative methods for diagnosis and assessment, and strategic perspectives. The institution ranks with U.S. News as the 7th best regional university in the West and 5th best value school.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $33,750

#25 – Drexel University

Online executive dba.

The Executive Doctor of Business Administration degree program at Drexel University is an intensive exploration of all aspects of business and designed for those interested in a PhD marketing or closely related discipline. Offered through Drexel’s LeBow College of Business and taught by business professors, the practical program is one of only 20 percent accredited by AACSB International. Business administration courses are online and include topics like analyzing quantitative data, applied organizational theory, challenges of a data driven economy, corporate growth and risk strategies, and foundations of research in behavioral science. The typical DBA student at Drexel finishes the online doctorate in approximately 2.5 to 3 years, and a comprehensive exam may be required. Drexel ranks with U.S. News & World Report as the 97th best national university and all online graduate business programs rank within the top 50 programs.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $36,234

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can i do with a phd in marketing degree.

Just like a traditional marketing PhD, by earning a PhD marketing online degree, you will improve your chances of finding suitable employment that pays well and affords you the kind of lifestyle you seek. What can you do with an online PhD in marketing degree? We’ve listed a few options for marketing careers to help you determine jobs that align with your education.

Marketing manager : The role of the marketing manager is to develop, manage, and oversee marketing and/or public relations campaigns for organizations. They often oversee teams responsible for such campaigns. Also, marketing managers develop teams based on consumer research to target key demographics. Nearly all marketing manager positions require postgraduate study. In fact, many large organizations require a minimum master’s degree in marketing, but prefer individuals with a marketing PhD such as the online doctorate in marketing.

Marketing vice president or president : Working at an even higher level than the marketing manager, the marketing president or vice president oversees teams of marketing managers. Also known as chief marketing officers, marketing presidents are executives within organizations. They make informed decisions based on the information and research received from their marketing management team, including marketing cost and benefits. To secure one of these executive-level positions, you will need considerable education, such as a PhD in marketing. Also, valuable work experience will set you apart from your competitors.

Postsecondary professor or instructor : With a PhD in marketing or closely related doctoral degree, you may be qualified to work as a postsecondary educator, such as an instructor or professor. With a PhD or DBA, you are acknowledged as an expert in the marketing field.

How long does it take to earn a PhD in marketing or online doctorate in marketing online degree?

Whether you’re earning a marketing PhD or DBA online degree, credit requirements are similar. In fact, most online PhD or DBA programs in marketing require 60 total credits. Some DBA online programs require less, but the average total number of credits required for a doctorate is sixty credits.

Several factors impact completion time. The first factor explored is enrollment status. What is enrollment status? Full-time or part-time status. When enrolled full-time, you will generally have a heavier course load than your part-time colleagues. Full-time students take two and three classes each term, and by doing so, graduate sooner than individuals enrolled part-time. Full-time status allows you to complete your degree at a quicker pace by taking more classes. But with full-time enrollment comes a heavier schedule. Flexible part-time programs are ideal for individuals working full-time and balancing outside responsibilities, such as family. However, full-time students take three years to complete their doctorate degree, while part-time students may take up to five years for the same degree.

The next factor impacting completion time is the dissertation requirement. If your program requires a dissertation or other type of research project, then plan on taking additional time to earn your online PhD in marketing degree. The average completion time for a PhD in marketing online degree with a dissertation requirement is four to six years.

What types of courses are required in marketing PhD programs?

Online coursework for a marketing PhD or for DBA online programs varies. Some programs may require heavy academic research-oriented classes, while others offer specializations that allow students to tailor their degree to fit with personal interests or align with career goals. However, many of the programs on our list require courses that cover key concepts and similar topics.

Example courses seen in PhD and DBA in marketing programs include business courses such as advanced business research methods, consumer behavior theory and practice, and marketing strategies and innovation in globally diverse markets. Programs that offer specializations in different types of marketing, such as international marketing or market research, may require additional courses relating to the area of focus. Also, if the program requires a dissertation or other academic research project, courses in research methods and statistical analysis will be required.

Seminars are a component of most PhD in marketing and online DBA in marketing programs. Seminars cover special topics in marketing. Sample courses include marketing research and strategy and innovation seminars.

Most of the programs on our list require the completion of 60 credit hours. Classes are delivered online, though some of the programs on our list offer a mix of online and on-campus courses. Overall, you will find similar courses offered from the programs on our list.

What is the job outlook for individuals with a PhD in marketing or doctorate in marketing online degree?

The United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports a favorable job outlook for advertising, marketing, and promotions managers. In fact, a ten-percent projected growth rate is expected through 2030, which is faster than the average for all other occupations.

A favorable job outlook for individuals with a PhD in marketing degree is anticipated across the industry. As organizations seek to expand their share of the market, marketing managers are needed to lead promotional campaigns and coordinate advertising efforts. Most organizations are expected to grow their marketing efforts, especially online businesses. However, a decline in the newspaper publishing industry could impact growth. The newspaper industry employs many managers who specialize in marketing. These managers could face a decline rather than growth over the next decade.

Internet advertising campaigns will likely increase, and as a result, prompt organizations to hire managers. Organizations want to reach a wider audience and doing so means employing advertising and promotion experts. Individuals with advanced degrees, such as an PhD in marketing or DBA in marketing online will become valuable assets to organizations looking to improve their presence. By earning a PhD in marketing, you will set yourself apart from competitors. Also, by specializing your degree in areas of marketing, such as advertising or internet-based marketing, you should have even better job prospects.

How much money can I earn with a PhD in marketing?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for marketing managers, as of May 2021, was $133,380. BLS also reports the lowest ten percent of earners were paid $61,250, while the highest earning ten-percent of marketing managers made $208,000. Pay varies by industry. A careful look at industries reveals the following:

The top-paying industries for these types of managers, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, were professional, scientific, and technical services; management of companies and enterprises; finance and insurance; manufacturing; and wholesale trade. Marketing managers working in professional or technical services earned on average $155,470 per year. Those in the management of companies and enterprises earned $155,030. Those working in finance and insurance earned an average of $151,870. Marketing-specific managers in manufacturing earned an average annual wage of $136,150. Those in wholesale trade earned $132,450.

Most of these managers work full-time and many exceed the forty-hour work week. Overtime is especially common when organizational campaigns are in full force. The time leading up to the launch of a promotions or advertising campaign can require long hours that exceed standard work hours. But despite the long work hours, benefits and high wages keep employees happy. Earning a PhD in marketing will qualify you for high-paying manager jobs.

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook Handbook
• National Center for Education Statistics: College Navigator
• U.S. News & World Report: Best Colleges

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• Doctorate Degree Online
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• Highest Paying PhD
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• Online PhD Programs in Management Information Systems

This concludes our list of the 25 PhD in marketing programs online.

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Doctorate in Digital Marketing

School of Science & Engineering

Academic Freedom to Discover Your Purpose Open Curriculum Design at Atlantic International University

Atlantic International University offers a Doctorate in Digital Marketing, catering to professionals seeking an advanced understanding of the dynamic landscape of digital marketing strategies and technologies. This specialized program is designed to equip students with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the digital sphere, focusing on innovative marketing approaches in the contemporary business environment.

The Doctorate in Digital Marketing at AIU combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications, providing a comprehensive curriculum covering various topics. Students delve into consumer behavior analysis, social media marketing, search engine optimization (SEO), digital advertising, content strategy, data analytics, and emerging trends in digital platforms. Through a blend of coursework, research projects, and real-world case studies, participants understand how to leverage digital tools and channels to create effective marketing campaigns.

One of the distinguishing features of AIU’s program is its emphasis on research and innovation in digital marketing. Students are encouraged to conduct original research, exploring new methodologies, trends, and paradigms that contribute to advancing digital marketing theory and practice. This research-oriented approach allows students to develop critical thinking skills and contribute meaningfully to the industry’s body of knowledge.

The flexibility of AIU’s Doctorate in Digital Marketing enables working professionals to pursue their academic aspirations without interrupting their careers. The university offers a convenient online learning platform, allowing students worldwide to access course materials, engage with faculty, and collaborate with peers asynchronously. This structure accommodates diverse schedules and empowers students to balance their academic pursuits with professional life and personal commitments.

Courses and Topics in Doctorate in Digital Marketing

Atlantic International University’s Doctorate in Digital Marketing provides a comprehensive curriculum for navigating the evolving digital landscape. Core subjects like Marketing Fundamentals, Digital Strategy, and Consumer Behavior form the foundation, emphasizing applying marketing principles in digital contexts. 

Specialized courses cover SEO, Social Media, Content Strategy, and Analytics, offering technical expertise for effective campaigns. Exploring emerging trends like AI, Big Data, E-commerce, and Mobile Marketing ensures students stay current. Encouraging practical projects, the program nurtures critical thinking and strategic skills, preparing graduates for leadership in diverse digital marketing roles, from management to entrepreneurship. The curriculum’s blend of theory and practice empowers graduates to drive impactful campaigns in today’s dynamic business sphere.

Orientation Courses

Atlantic International University’s Doctorate in Digital Marketing features orientation courses as a foundational introduction to the discipline. They cover digital marketing’s evolution, technological influence, and consumer behavior impact. Exploring SEO, content, social media, analytics, and emerging tech, these courses promote critical thinking and practical application, preparing students for advanced studies and impactful contributions in the digital marketing field.

• Communication & Investigation (Comprehensive Resume)
• Organization Theory (Portfolio)
• Experiential Learning (Autobiography)
• Academic Evaluation (Questionnaire)
• Fundament of Knowledge (Integration Chart)
• Fundamental Principles I (Philosophy of Education)
• Professional Evaluation (Self Evaluation Matrix)
• Development of Graduate Study (Guarantee of an Academic Degree)

Research Projects for Doctorate in Digital Marketing

At Atlantic International University, Doctorate-level research projects in Digital Marketing are comprehensive endeavors that delve into the dynamic landscape of the digital sphere and its impact on marketing strategies. These projects encapsulate a blend of theoretical frameworks, empirical analyses, and innovative methodologies to explore the evolving trends in consumer behavior, technology advancements, and marketing tactics within the digital realm.

• Doctoral Dissertation Project
• MBM900 Doctoral Proposal
• MBM902 Doctoral Dissertation (15,000 words)

Publication – The doctoral research journey in Digital Marketing at AIU is characterized by a rigorous exploration of contemporary issues, innovative methodologies, and a commitment to contributing new knowledge to the field. Candidates are encouraged to develop critical thinking skills, apply advanced research methodologies, and produce scholarly work that pushes the boundaries of understanding in Digital Marketing practices. AIU provides a supportive environment, expert guidance, and resources necessary for doctoral candidates to excel in their research endeavors and make meaningful contributions to Digital Marketing .

Earn a Doctorate in Digital Marketing with AIU! Discover Innovative Strategies & Lead the Digital Revolution.

Apply for admission, transformative doctorate student journey at aiu.

Embarking on a Doctorate in Digital Marketing at Atlantic International University marked the genesis of an extraordinary transformative journey for me. As I ventured into this academic pursuit, the vast and ever-evolving landscape of digital marketing seemed both exhilarating and daunting. The program’s multidisciplinary approach immediately challenged me to expand my horizons, delving deep into consumer behavior, data analytics, emerging technologies, and strategic marketing methodologies.

Throughout this journey, every module, lecture, and research project became a stepping stone in shaping my understanding of the intricate nuances within the digital marketing domain. The program’s emphasis on critical thinking and innovative problem-solving has honed my analytical skills and fostered a mindset geared towards adapting to the rapid shifts in the digital sphere.

Atlantic International University’s collaborative learning environment gave me an invaluable opportunity to engage with diverse perspectives from fellow scholars and industry experts. Interacting with individuals from different cultural backgrounds enriched my academic experience and broadened my global outlook on digital marketing practices and trends.

Undoubtedly, the dissertation phase emerged as the zenith of this transformative expedition. It demanded an amalgamation of theoretical knowledge and practical insights from the program. I conducted in-depth research, analyzed data, synthesized findings, fortified my expertise, and instilled a profound sense of accomplishment as I contributed to the field’s knowledge.

The mentorship and guidance provided by esteemed faculty members at Atlantic International University were instrumental in steering me through the complexities of my doctoral journey. Their unwavering support , constructive feedback, and scholarly mentorship played a pivotal role in shaping my academic growth and instilling a more profound passion for exploring the frontiers of digital marketing.

As I stand at the culmination of this transformative odyssey, I am equipped with a Doctorate in Digital Marketing from Atlantic International University and a newfound confidence to navigate the dynamic landscape of the digital realm. The journey has not only enriched my academic understanding. Still, it has also equipped me with the skills and insights necessary to contribute meaningfully to the ever-evolving field of digital marketing as an adept strategist and thought leader.

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These resources, carefully selected by the AIU community and totaling over 105,000 academic materials , serve as the cornerstone for the online Doctorate in Digital Marketing and associated programs. Catering to a wide array of academic interests, these tools empower students, enabling them to turn their aspirations into tangible accomplishments within their chosen program. This robust infrastructure guarantees a dynamic and enriching educational journey for students pursuing their academic endeavors at AIU’s Virtual Campus.

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The students have the opportunity to produce, edit and host their own show reaching a worldwide audience, the AIU community and giving notice of their expertise/passion in the subject. AIUTV & AIU Radio allow students to explore new ways to communicate, develop a platform and form potential collaboration with likeminded individuals.

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AIU’s Digital Marketing Doctoral Programs foster pioneering academic journeys, uniting scholars and industry leaders. Symposiums ignite knowledge and innovation, providing a platform for groundbreaking research presentations and discussions challenging conventional frameworks. These gatherings cultivate scholarly dialogues, nurturing collaboration and enduring connections, merging original research with practical applications for refined theories.

Live Classes

AIU’s PhD program in Digital Marketing revolutionizes online education, curating vibrant and interactive classes that breathe life into virtual learning. These sessions meticulously construct an immersive atmosphere, encouraging active participation and fostering engagement. Facilitated by proficient faculty members and industry luminaries, these live sessions cultivate real-time discussions, extensive Q&A segments, and collaborative problem-solving.

Engagement in these sessions not only enhances one’s comprehension of strategic leadership but also forges robust connections among peers, nurturing a thriving community. Enrolling in AIU’s live courses opens doors to enlightening discussions, insights into industry trends, and personalized guidance.

Special Projects

Atlantic International University’s Doctorate in Digital Marketing integrates special projects as vital components, providing hands-on experience and research opportunities. These projects bridge theory and practice, refining problem-solving skills and understanding diverse marketing strategies’ real-world applications. They facilitate in-depth research, contributing to digital marketing knowledge, and positioning students as industry thought leaders. Collaborative efforts enhance interdisciplinary learning, culminating in a comprehensive thesis or dissertation, showcasing students’ expertise and preparing them for influential roles in academia or industry.

Become a Visionary Marketer! Enroll in AIU’s Doctorate in Digital Marketing – Redefine Industries & Drive Global Impact.

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Atlantic International University’s Career Center offers an array of comprehensive resources explicitly tailored for Doctorate in Digital Marketing graduates, empowering them to navigate the dynamic landscape of the digital sphere. Equipped with specialized knowledge and skillsets in this cutting-edge field, AIU alumni are well-prepared to excel in various career paths within the digital marketing realm.

The Career Center is a pivotal hub for graduates, providing a wealth of tools and guidance for launching a successful career. Through personalized career counseling sessions, alumni can receive one-on-one guidance , enabling them to identify their strengths, refine their career goals, and explore diverse opportunities available in the digital marketing domain.

AIU’s robust network of industry connections facilitates access to exclusive job postings, internships, and networking events, fostering invaluable connections with leading professionals and organizations in the field. This network provides a platform for graduates to showcase their expertise and establish themselves as competent leaders in the ever-evolving digital marketing landscape.

Furthermore, the Career Center offers workshops, seminars, and webinars conducted by industry experts, allowing alumni to stay informed about the technologies, latest trends, and best practices in digital marketing. These continuous learning opportunities ensure that graduates remain at the forefront of innovation, powered by the knowledge necessary to tackle emerging challenges and drive meaningful change in the digital sphere.

Moreover, the Career Center’s comprehensive resources include resume-building assistance, interview preparation guidance, and access to a vast library of resources and tools to enhance professional development. Alumni are empowered with the skills to craft compelling resumes that highlight their expertise in digital marketing and effectively communicate their value to potential employers.

In essence, the Career Center at Atlantic International University stands as a dedicated support system committed to empowering Doctorate in Digital Marketing graduates as they embark on their professional journey. With a focus on individualized guidance, industry connections, and continuous learning, the Career Center ensures that AIU alumni are well-equipped to thrive and significantly impact digital marketing.

Job Opportunities

At Atlantic International University, we offer an innovative Doctorate in Digital Marketing program designed to equip professionals with advanced expertise in the ever-evolving landscape of digital marketing. This doctoral program is meticulously crafted to clarify the principles, strategies, and emerging trends within the digital realm. Students delve deeply into diverse marketing facets, leveraging cutting-edge tools and methodologies to navigate the dynamic digital ecosystem.

Our Doctorate in Digital Marketing curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills essential for success in this fast-paced field. Participants explore topics such as consumer behavior analysis, data-driven decision-making, advanced marketing strategies for digital platforms, and the integration of technology in marketing initiatives.

Through a multidisciplinary approach, students gain insights into the intersection of technology, marketing, and consumer psychology. Our faculty, comprised of seasoned industry professionals and academicians, guides candidates in conducting original research, enabling them to contribute valuable insights to digital marketing.

Upon completion of the program , graduates emerge as adept leaders capable of designing innovative marketing strategies, harnessing the power of data analytics, and adapting to the rapidly changing digital landscape. They have the skills to drive organizational growth, enhance brand visibility, and address complex challenges in the contemporary digital marketplace.

This Doctorate in Digital Marketing from Atlantic International University is tailored for ambitious professionals seeking to advance their marketing, advertising, consultancy, academia, or entrepreneurship careers. Our commitment to academic excellence and practical relevance ensures that graduates are well-prepared to contribute significantly to the field while staying at the forefront of the digital revolution.

Employment Opportunities after Completing Doctorate in Digital Marketing

Completing a Doctorate in Digital Marketing from Atlantic International University positions graduates at the forefront of an ever-evolving industry, unlocking many promising employment opportunities. The comprehensive curriculum of this program equips scholars with an advanced understanding of digital marketing strategies, consumer behavior, analytics, and emerging technologies, fostering required skills in today’s competitive job market.

One avenue for employment lies in academia and research institutions, where Doctorate holders can pursue teaching positions or engage in cutting-edge research. These roles allow them to contribute to the field’s development, impart knowledge, and mentor aspiring marketers, shaping the future generation of professionals in digital marketing.

Moreover, the corporate world beckons with numerous prospects for Doctorate holders. Many global corporations, tech firms, advertising agencies, and businesses across diverse industries actively seek experts in digital marketing to lead their marketing departments, devise innovative campaigns, and formulate strategies to navigate the digital landscape effectively.

Entrepreneurial endeavors present another avenue. Armed with a Doctorate in Digital Marketing, graduates can venture into consultancy, launching their agencies, or offering specialized services in digital marketing. This degree provides in-depth knowledge and instills critical thinking and problem-solving skills, crucial for thriving in entrepreneurial pursuits.

Additionally, the emergence of remote work and the increasing reliance on digital platforms have expanded opportunities for Doctorate holders globally. Freelancing, remote consulting, and project-based collaborations allow these professionals to work with international clients, leveraging their expertise to address diverse marketing challenges.

Furthermore, the continuous evolution of technology ensures a constant demand for experts who can navigate and leverage the latest digital tools and platforms. Industries such as e-commerce, social media, data analytics, and artificial intelligence offer fertile ground for Doctorate holders to apply their knowledge and expertise, driving innovation and impactful marketing strategies.

Tools used in Digital Marketing

These tools cater to various aspects of digital marketing, enabling marketers to analyze data, optimize content, manage campaigns, engage on social media, and more. Each link leads to the respective tool’s website for more information or to sign up for their services.

Analytics and Data Tools:

• Google Analytics
• Adobe Analytics

SEO (Search Engine Optimization) Tools:

Content Marketing Tools:

Email Marketing Tools:

• HubSpot Email Marketing

Social Media Management Tools:

• Sprout Social

PPC (Pay-Per-Click) Advertising Tools:

CRM (Customer Relationship Management) Tools:

• HubSpot CRM

Design and Visual Content Tools:

• Adobe Creative Cloud

Marketing Automation Tools:

• Pardot by Salesforce

Video Marketing Tools:

Associations for Professionals in Digital Marketing

These associations offer valuable resources, networking opportunities, certifications, events, and industry insights to professionals interested in advancing their careers in digital marketing.

• American Marketing Association (AMA) Website: https://www.ama.org/ Description: A prominent association providing resources, training, and networking opportunities for marketing professionals across various disciplines, including digital marketing.
• Digital Marketing Association (DMA) Website: https://thedma.org/ Description: Focused on digital marketing, DMA offers insights, education, and advocacy for professionals in the digital space.
• Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) Website: https://www.iab.com/ Description: A leading organization devoted to the growth of the digital marketing and advertising ecosystem, offering research, events, and standards development.
• Digital Analytics Association (DAA) Website: https://digitalanalyticsassociation.org/ Description: Dedicated to enhancing the field of digital analytics, providing education, networking, and professional development opportunities.
• Social Media Marketing Association (SMA) Website: https://socialmediaassociation.org/ Description: Focuses on social media marketing, offering resources, events, and education to enhance professionals’ social media skills.
• Internet Marketing Association (IMA) Website: https://imanetwork.org/ Description: A global organization that supports and recognizes excellence in digital marketing through conferences, certifications, and networking.
• Content Marketing Institute (CMI) Website: https://contentmarketinginstitute.com/ Description: Focuses on content marketing strategies, providing education, research, and events for content marketing professionals.
• Search Engine Marketing Professional Organization (SEMPO) Website: https://www.sempo.org/ Description: Offers resources and networking for professionals specializing in search engine marketing and optimization.

AIU’s Doctorate in Digital Marketing – Your Gateway to Advanced Insights and Trailblazing Career Opportunities.

Check our virtual campus, requirements for doctorate in digital marketing.

Atlantic International University offers a comprehensive Doctorate in Digital Marketing, catering to those seeking advanced expertise in the dynamic field. Applicants typically need a related master’s degree or professional marketing experience. 

The curriculum covers digital analytics, SEO, social media, and e-commerce, blending theory and practice. With a research-intensive approach, students contribute original insights, preparing them to lead and innovate in diverse sectors, benefiting from AIU’s flexible online format for balanced learning. This program aims to produce industry experts capable of advancing digital marketing practices and theories.

How Can You Apply?

To pursue a Doctorate in Digital Marketing, research reputable universities offering doctoral programs in marketing or related fields. Review their admission requirements, which typically include a master’s degree, strong academic background, relevant work experience, recommendation letters, and a compelling statement of purpose outlining research interests. Prepare to submit academic transcripts, GRE/GMAT scores, and possibly a writing sample. Connect with professors or researchers in the field and discuss potential research topics aligning with your interests. Lastly, complete the application process by the specified deadline, ensuring all materials are submitted accurately and on time.

Financial Support & Scholarships

Are you ready to advance your academic journey? Our doctoral programs offer specialized scholarships designed to enrich your educational pursuits. Share your details now and unlock access to a range of scholarships tailored to support your academic goals.

Embark on this transformative educational journey where aspirations become achievements. We’re committed to providing steadfast support as you pursue academic excellence. Let us turn your dreams into tangible accomplishments. Seize this opportunity and embark on a path filled with academic successes and triumphs!

How Much Does Doctorate in Digital Marketing Cost Per Year?

We recognize the significance of financial flexibility in your educational endeavors. Hence, depending upon the type of program you choose, we have introduced a convenient monthly payment plan to make your pursuit of a doctorate manageable and free from financial worries. Our exceptionally affordable tuition fee covers the expense for Doctorate in Digital Marketing. So, secure your future with AIU, where first-rate education aligns perfectly with your budget. Your aspirations are well within your grasp.

Q. How Long Does It Take to Get a Doctorate in Digital Marketing Online?

Ans : The duration to complete a doctoral program in DM online can vary based on several factors, including the program structure, individual pace, and prior academic achievements. On average, completing a doctoral program in digital marketing typically takes around 3 to 5 years for full-time students.

Some online doctoral programs offer flexible scheduling, allowing students to progress at their own pace, which might extend or shorten the completion time. Part-time enrollment options might also be available, accommodating individuals balancing work or other commitments, potentially lengthening the time needed to finish the program.

Additionally, the dissertation phase, where students conduct original research, can significantly impact the duration. Factors such as research complexity, data collection, and writing the dissertation might influence the overall time required.

It’s crucial to review the specific program’s curriculum, credit requirements, and potential transfer credits to estimate the duration accurately. Factors like prior coursework, thesis development, and research skills can impact the time taken to earn a Doctorate in Digital Marketing online.

Q. Do You Need a Masters to Get a PhD in Digital Marketing?

Ans : Generally, to pursue a PhD in Digital Marketing or any doctoral program, a master’s degree is commonly preferred or sometimes required by most universities. However, specific admission criteria can vary among institutions.

Having a master’s degree in a related field (such as marketing, business administration, communications, or a similar discipline) can provide a strong foundation and demonstrate the necessary academic background for doctoral-level studies. Additionally, relevant professional experience in marketing or a closely related field might also be considered in lieu of a master’s degree in some cases.

While a master’s degree is often the standard prerequisite, exceptions might exist. Some universities might accept exceptional candidates with extensive industry experience, a strong academic background at the bachelor’s level, or other qualifying credentials.

Prospective applicants should carefully review the admission requirements of the specific PhD program in Digital Marketing they wish to pursue to understand the prerequisites and criteria for acceptance. This information can guide individuals in assessing whether a master’s degree is a requirement or if alternative qualifications are considered.

Q. Can You Get a PhD in Digital Marketing Online?

Ans: Yes, it is possible to pursue a PhD in Digital Marketing through online programs offered by various universities and institutions. Online PhD programs in Digital Marketing provide flexibility for working professionals or individuals who prefer remote learning.

These online doctoral programs typically offer coursework in digital marketing strategies, consumer behavior analysis, data analytics, branding, and research methodologies. The curriculum often includes a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical applications in the field of digital marketing.

Q. What digital marketing jobs require a PhD?

Ans: While many digital marketing positions typically do not require a PhD, obtaining a doctoral degree in Digital Marketing can open up specialized career paths and opportunities for individuals seeking advanced roles. Some of the positions that might value or require a PhD in Digital Marketing include:

• University Professor/Researcher: With a PhD, individuals can pursue academic careers as professors or researchers in universities or educational institutions. They can teach digital marketing courses, conduct research, and contribute to advancements in the field.
• Industry Researcher/Specialist: Some companies, particularly those heavily invested in research and development or innovation, might seek PhD holders to lead research initiatives, analyze market trends, and develop innovative digital marketing strategies.
• Marketing Director/Strategist: In certain cases, high-level leadership positions within marketing departments might prefer candidates with a doctorate due to their advanced understanding of marketing theories, consumer behavior, and strategic planning.
• Consultant/Advisor: Individuals with a PhD in Digital Marketing might work as consultants or advisors, offering specialized expertise to businesses, agencies, or organizations seeking strategic guidance in digital marketing.
• Government or Nonprofit Organizations: PhD holders might find opportunities in governmental agencies or nonprofit organizations involved in policy-making, data analysis, or research related to digital marketing initiatives.

While not all positions explicitly require a PhD in Digital Marketing, having this advanced degree can distinguish candidates in competitive job markets, especially for roles emphasizing research, academia, high-level strategy, and specialized expertise within the digital marketing domain.

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2024 Best Online PhD in Digital Marketing [Doctorate Guide]

A PhD in Digital Marketing online program can give you the opportunity to specialize in business research. A PhD is also one of the highest educational qualifications that you can get in the field.

Digital marketing is an innovative and future-ready field, and it’s already essential for many businesses. In a digital marketing PhD program, you can work toward becoming a domain expert and get firsthand experience with research.

With the growing number of distance learning options, it’s now more convenient than ever to earn this lucrative doctorate.

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Universities Offering Online Doctorate in Digital Marketing Degree Program

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

California Baptist University

California Baptist University offers a Doctor of Business Administration online program. This is a 56-unit program created for working adults. It can potentially be completed in as little as 3 years, including the dissertation. Classes are 8 weeks long and are taught by credentialed faculty with real-world business experience.

California Baptist University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.

Concordia University – Chicago

Concordia University—Chicago offers a Doctorate in Business Administration that can be earned entirely online. It requires the completion of 60 credit hours and can potentially be completed in just 3 years.

Two specializations are available within the program: Innovation in Health Care Management and Strategic Leadership and Innovation.

Concordia University Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

George Fox University

George Fox University offers a Doctor of Business Administration. Concentrations are available in Accounting, Management, and Business Analytics. This is an online program that follows a cohort model. There are two required in-person sessions in Newberg, Oregon.

Students typically spend 3 years on coursework and 1 year completing a dissertation.

George Fox University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University offers a Doctor of Business Administration with an emphasis in Marketing (Quantitative Research). The program focuses on the collection and interpretation of numeric data to aid in making business decisions.

Courses include Digital Technology and Consumer Behavior, Economics for Business Decisions, Complexity of Marketing, and The History and Philosophy of Marketing.

Grand Canyon University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Kennesaw State University

Kennesaw State University offers a PhD in Business Administration. The program is mostly online, but there is an in-person residency once a month. It is often useful for business professionals wishing to pursue academic positions.

Concentrations are available in Accounting, Information Systems, Management, and Marketing.

Kennesaw State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Liberty University

Liberty University offers a Doctor of Business Administration in Marketing. Courses are 8 weeks long and 100% online. Courses include Strategic Marketing Management, Marketing Promotions, Supply Chain Management, and Marketing Research.

The program requires the completion of 60 credit hours, and students usually finish in 3 years. It is designed to teach practical, real-world skills.

Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

National University

National University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration with a specialization in Strategic Marketing. The program is designed to help prepare students for leadership roles in a variety of business settings. It requires the completion of 60 credit hours and can usually be completed in 3 to 4 years.

National University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Trident University International

Trident University International offers a Doctor of Business Administration that can be earned 100% online. The program covers how to make evidence-based decisions and strategically improve business processes and outcomes. It is designed to provide flexibility for adult students.

Students in the program are required to complete an applied doctoral study project rather than a dissertation.

Trident University International is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of the Cumberlands

The University of the Cumberlands offers an online program for a Doctor of Philosophy in Business. Students can choose a specialty in Accounting, Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Finance, Healthcare Administration, Project Management, or Strategic Management.

Core courses include Advanced Managerial Accounting, Strategic Marketing: Research and Practice, and Corporate Finance: Fiscal Management in a Global Climate.

The University of the Cumberlands is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Walden University

Walden University offers a Doctor of Business Administration in Marketing. The program covers key marketing concepts, including competitive intelligence, marketing channels, product development and commercialization, and consumer behavior. It also includes a capstone project.

Students have up to 8 years to finish the program.

Walden University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

PhD in Digital Marketing Online Programs

PhD in Digital Marketing programs are focused on creating scholars and knowledgeable experts who can help the industry move forward with original research. You can be trained to use your data analysis skills to solve marketing challenges.

Digital marketing is a quickly evolving field that relies on the latest technology.

It spans many of the modern tools and strategies currently used by companies to reach their target audiences, including social media, email, search engines, websites, and analytics.

As a digital marketing PhD student, you’ll likely choose a specific research question and build your expertise around that area. Doctorate programs in digital marketing typically emphasize econometrics, statistical analysis, and experimental research. You’ll likely take classes on marketing theories and applications as well.

During the second half of your PhD program, you’ll probably spend most of your time working on a dissertation that can be published in an academic journal.

Most programs will provide opportunities to learn how to critically analyze current papers on digital marketing and will have experienced faculty members with similar research expertise that can help guide you.

Different programs offer different concentrations, but here are some of the most common research areas:

• Consumer culture
• International marketing
• Product development
• Marketing innovation
• Social media sentiment
• Online advertising

To create an original research paper, you can study advanced models in marketing along with special topics. You can also practice using mathematical and economics tools to get insights from data.

Because of the focus on independent research, digital marketing PhD programs often include seminars and customizable classes along with plenty of time to work on your own.

Most graduates with a PhD in Digital Marketing become professors who conduct university research. Since data analysis expertise is highly sought after, others become market research consultants. Some take on strategic, executive-level roles instead, where they can apply what they’ve learned in a business setting.

Digital Marketing Careers & Salaries

With the specialized skills that you can develop through a digital marketing PhD program, you can pursue careers in both the public and private sectors.

The most common career track for PhD graduates is academia, where they often teach marketing or business classes in colleges and universities. Because a PhD in Marketing is research-intensive, graduates are often well-equipped to conduct research alongside teaching.

For those who prefer to work for private companies, management roles in marketing and sales are often possible.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , here are the yearly median salaries of some of the advanced careers related to digital marketing.

These are only the median salaries for each job. Actual salaries can vary based on location, your field of expertise, and many other factors. Still, the main career tracks—management, academia, and data analysis—may lead to high-paying roles down the road.

Outside of academia, professionals with a PhD in Marketing may become market research analysts or data analysts. Marketing is one of the fastest-growing fields today, with roles in diverse industries, such as management consulting, technology, and healthcare.

Digital Marketing PhD Curriculum & Courses

Online doctorate in digital marketing programs usually involve a lot of independent study, and classes vary based on the school, but you’ll likely take classes similar to the following:

• Microeconomic Theory : This course explores how individuals and organizations interact in different market structures, utilizing game theory to make predictions for decision-making.
• Econometrics : Going beyond economic theory, this course discusses how to make forecasts and draw cause-and-effect relationships through data analysis tools.
• Statistical Analysis : This course lays the groundwork for more advanced research classes by covering statistical methods for gathering and analyzing data.
• Qualitative Research : This class can give you the opportunity to have hands-on practice with qualitative research methods—such as one-on-one interviews, focus groups, and observation—and learn how to write reports about your findings.
• Industrial Organization : This course gives an overview of how organizations function realistically and how they influence each other when it comes to advertising, product placement, and other marketing dynamics.
• Marketing Management : This class delves into how to launch and implement marketing strategies across an entire organization, including tracking analytics, developing a brand, and maintaining customer relationships.
• Advanced Marketing Theory : This course delves into traditional and modern marketing models that are backed by research. You’ll likely need to read a wide range of academic papers and give your own critical analysis.
• Quantitative Research : This course aims to teach how to apply the statistical and econometric tools learned in other courses in order to design your own experiments.
• Consumer Behavior : The core of marketing lies in getting to know your consumers’ motivations, goals, and pain points and then adapting to these for effective brand positioning.
• Social Psychology : This class examines how people behave in a social environment and what factors influence their behavior.

Aside from these courses, a PhD in Digital Marketing will usually allow you to choose from several electives based on your research interests as well.

Admissions Requirements

Most digital marketing PhD programs, just like other online business degrees , have the following admission requirements:

• School transcripts . You’ll probably be asked to submit transcripts of all your previous undergraduate and graduate work.
• GMAT or GRE scores . Some doctorate programs still ask for standardized test scores, but a growing number of schools no longer require them.
• Recommendation letters . PhD programs generally favor academic references from former professors.
• Personal statement . You’ll typically be asked to describe your career goals and research plans.
• Resume . Admission officers may want to see if you’ve done any related work in your career.

Admissions for a PhD program tend to be stricter since it takes a lot of time and dedication to finish.

Accreditation

Since a PhD is the highest educational qualification that you can get, it’s essential to choose an accredited school with a high-quality program.

Regionally accredited schools meet up-to-date educational standards for their programs. Attending an accredited school is an eligibility factor for government financial aid as well. Employers may also favor degrees from accredited schools, especially if you’re planning to work at a university.

The US Department of Education maintains a list of accredited schools across the US, so you can confirm a school’s accreditation status on their website.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

As an incoming PhD student, you have a number of financial aid options you can explore. You may want to start your financial aid search by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) . This will determine your eligibility for government financial aid in the form of loans, grants, and work-study programs.

There are also opportunities for fellowships, which, if awarded, will allow you to focus on a specific field of research while getting your tuition fully paid. These are awarded on a merit basis, and a regular stipend may be included.

Another option would be to pursue graduate assistantships, where you can teach or help with a school’s research projects while you continue your studies. Assistantships can be beneficial since you can work for the school while increasing your research and teaching experience.

There are also private and public scholarships available for qualifying PhD students. These are usually merit-based as well.

Do You Need a Masters to Get a PhD in Digital Marketing?

It depends on the university, but many PhD programs accept students who only have an undergraduate degree.

The most standard track, though, is to earn your master’s in digital marketing and then apply for a PhD program. Still, it’s possible to skip your master’s and go straight to doctoral studies after earning your bachelor’s degree. This could potentially fast-track you by 1 to 2 years, but you’d also have less experience with research.

Depending on the program, if you’re applying with a bachelor’s, you may need a stronger application to help you stand out amongst applicants with master’s degrees.

If you do decide to earn a master’s, it may be worth noting that a number of universities offer an online masters in digital marketing, which may allow you to better balance your life responsibilities. Some also offer accelerated marketing degree options at the master’s level.

What Can You Do with a Doctoral Degree in Digital Marketing?

A PhD in Digital Marketing can help you build a career in research, teaching, data analysis, and management. The academic field is the most popular destination for PhD graduates of digital marketing. They often work as professors who are active in research.

Some graduates opt to work in management, with roles such as chief executive and marketing manager.

Based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, many management jobs offer higher than average salaries. Graduates may also use their knowledge of statistics and data analysis to work for technology and research companies.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Doctorate in Digital Marketing Online?

Most digital marketing PhD programs take 3 to 5 years to complete if you’re studying full-time. On a part-time schedule, it will often take longer. Time to completion varies a lot from program to program. One factor that can change how long it takes is how many credits you’re required to complete.

A dissertation requirement is another factor that can impact your timeline to graduation. Typically, the second half of a PhD program involves writing a dissertation, which is often the most time-consuming part. Without a dissertation requirement, you might be able to finish in 3 years with full-time study.

What’s the Difference between a DBA vs. PhD in Digital Marketing?

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Digital Marketing has a different focus compared to a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA).

A PhD in Digital Marketing is ultimately focused on how to publish research.

What’s the Difference between Digital Marketing vs. Social Media Marketing?

The terms “digital marketing” and “social media marketing” are often interchanged, but they’re not the same.

Social media marketing is only one component of digital marketing, which is much broader. Those interested in this area might consider an online social media marketing degree for focused expertise on leveraging social platforms.

What’s the Difference between Internet Marketing vs. Digital Marketing Doctoral Programs?

Internet marketing and digital marketing doctoral programs have different areas of study.

There are slight differences, but digital marketing can cover both internet marketing and offline marketing.

Is a PhD in Digital Marketing Worth It?

Yes, a PhD in Digital Marketing is worth it for many students. If you’re aiming for a career in academia, a PhD in Digital Marketing can help you qualify. It can also help prepare you for research-intensive industries, especially since you’ll be graduating with your own original research.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, postsecondary teachers are in demand and expected to see 12% job growth over the next ten years. The market research job sector is also growing much faster than average.

Outside of research and academia, your PhD degree can also be a sign to employers that you have a good work ethic and specialized knowledge.

Getting Your PhD in Digital Marketing Online

A PhD is the highest education credential that you can get in the field of digital marketing. It can be a stepping stone for working in research and academia.

Earning your PhD in digital marketing can help you become an expert in the subject matter. PhD programs in this field typically provide extensive training in delving into research and analyzing digital marketing trends.

Since completing a doctorate can take several years, one option is to get your PhD in Digital Marketing online. Online marketing degree programs often allow for more flexible and convenient scheduling, better enabling you to balance your studies with work and life responsibilities.

If you’re ready to set out on your doctoral journey, there are many accredited schools with diverse research interests that you can explore.

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PhD in Marketing Online

Find your degree.

Are you thinking about pursuing a Ph.D. in marketing? This article ranks the top online doctoral marketing degree programs across the country. Marketing is a very diverse discipline. Those who want to pursue marketing at the doctorate level already have a lot of experience with this. The marketing field encompasses advertising, media planning, brand management, and much more. 

You may find yourself drawn to the things that make consumers tick. Perhaps you want to dive deeply into research methods and teach at a university. On the other hand, you may simply want to achieve the highest academic honor you can in your field. Regardless of your reasons for wanting to earn your doctorate degree or PhD in marketing, we’re here to help.

You May Also Like: The 20 Fastest Online Doctoral Programs

What Is the Job Outlook for Those With a PhD in Marketing?

Marketing as a whole is a vast industry. Advertising, promotions, and marketing management is projected to grow by 10% through 2031. Over the next decade, around 35,300 new openings for such professionals are projected each year. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , the median annual salary for marketing managers is $133,380.

Why Pursue A PhD in Marketing?

There are many excellent reasons to pursue a doctoral marketing degree. For starters, it can open up some exciting career opportunities. For example, you could become a professor and teach the next generation of marketers. You could work for a research firm helping companies understand their customers better. Plus, marketing programs will prepare you for a number of high-level (and high-paying) careers in the field.

Another reason to pursue a PhD in marketing is that you get to dive deep into a subject you’re passionate about. Are you fascinated by consumer behavior, brand management, or advertising? A PhD in marketing will allow you to explore those topics in greater detail. You’ll get to work with other marketing professionals and business leaders. And with an online doctor of marketing, you will also have the chance to contribute to the body of knowledge in the field.

Related: Where to Find the Best DBA or Doctor of Business Administration Programs

Should You Pursue a Ph.D. in Marketing Online?

Taking a step this big can be concerning. And you might wonder if a marketing doctoral degree is worth it. Pursuing a Ph.D. in marketing is not for everyone. It’s a big commitment, both in terms of time and money. You’ll need to be willing to put in long hours of research and writing. And you may have to sacrifice other aspects of your life to do so.

However, an online doctorate marketing program will allow you unparalleled flexibility. Most Ph.D. online marketing degree programs will require some on-campus components. But they are minimal compared to the on-campus programs. And you will also have the opportunity to study from anywhere in the world. Moreover, you won’t need to relocate to pursue your doctorate. Typically, you will only need to visit campus occasionally during your marketing online program. And in some cases, there are no required residencies at all to earn an online doctorate.

An online marketing Doctor of Business Administration or Ph.D. can also save you money. You won’t need to worry about expenses like student housing. And you’ll save on commuting as well. Plus, many online marketing programs offer in-state tuition rates no matter where you live. Additionally, online marketing students don’t have to abandon their careers to attend a Ph.D. program. Instead, you can earn your marketing doctorate around your full-time job. This way, you can continue earning while pursuing your doctoral degree. 

Best Marketing Doctorate Online Programs

Methodology For The Best Online Doctoral Programs in Marketing

Unfortunately, there are not a lot of online PhDs in Marketing that fit our school rankings criteria. Many of the doctoral programs are DBAs with Specializations in Marketing. Online DBA programs have a similar curriculum as a Ph.D. in Marketing. The primary difference is that they are more practical rather than theoretical.  If you want a career in academia, a PhD in marketing program is likely the best option for you. But if you want to expand your professional horizons within the industry, a DBA will give you the tools to do so. 

Despite the lack of online PhD marketing programs, we still found some great colleges for these school rankings. This article features the top 10 schools with a DBA or PhD in Marketing. Each school was required to meet some essential criteria. For example, the schools must be US-based, non-profit institutions. And each college must be properly accredited. Once we had our list, we ranked each of the online schools based on the following factors:

Graduate Tuition/Fees

• Less than $10,000/year – 3 Points
• $10,001-$20,000/year – 2 Points
• More than $20,000/year – 1 Point

Applicants Admitted

• Less than 25 percent – 1 Point
• 25 percent to 50 percent – 2 Points
• More than 50 percent – 3 Points

Graduation Rate

• 50 percent or Greater – 3 Points
• 25 percent-49 percent – 2 Points

Our information came from NCES College Navigator . Please note that rates are based on in-state graduate tuition per academic year. For out-of-state and remote PhD students, tuition and fees can vary. In the case of a tie, the school with the lowest tuition costs ranked the highest. No schools are ever given preferential treatment of any kind. 

If you’re passionate about marketing and willing to put in the work, a PhD in marketing can be a rewarding experience. Next, we’ll take a deeper look at the best online PhD in marketing programs. 

See Also: The Complete Guide to Online PhD and Doctorate Programs

Ranking The Best Online Marketing PhD Programs

California miramar university.

San Diego, California

Doctor of Business Administration in Marketing

California Miramar University features a DBA in Marketing online. CMU is an accredited online university. Courses are delivered through Moodle, the school’s online Learning Management System. All course materials and resources for this DBA are 100 percent online. And no campus visits are required. In addition, coursework is asynchronous. So you can study and interact with your business professors and peers when it is most convenient. Some of the courses in the marketing online program include:

• Advanced Marketing
• Consumer Behavior 
• Strategic Marketing Management
• Advanced Analytical Market Research
• Marketing Communications and Experiential Marketing
• Pricing Theory and Practices 
• Organizational Theory and Corporate Governance
• Modern Business-Driven Technologies and E-commerce
• Organizational Change Management and Business Ethics

These courses enhance students’ skills and provide them with new knowledge. They will learn to effectively manage the entire scope of the product life cycle. And they will be able to do this ethically, legally, and strategically.

All online students can access the school’s library system and information network. Plus, marketing students will be supported by the whole CMU team. In addition, financial aid, scholarships, and military discounts are available for online doctorate students. 

Accreditation: Distance Education Accrediting Commission 

Marketing Ph.D. Tuition: $7,020

Liberty University

Lynchburg, Virginia

Doctor of Business Administration in Marketing 

Liberty University features a DBA in Marketing online. This is one of the most flexible degrees in this ranking. The program is ACBSP accredited and offered through Liberty’s School of Business. There are no campus visits required. However, online students can come to campus for optional intensives if they choose to do so. You will need 60 credits to graduate. And you can transfer in up to 50% of the doctorate degree total. 

You can earn this DBA in Marketing in as little as three years. With transfer credits, motivated students may be able to complete the program faster. However, you can also go at your own pace and take longer. This allows you to complete your studies around your career and other obligations. Classes for this doctoral degree are each eight weeks long. You will take business courses as well as those related to marketing. Some of the courses in the online doctor of marketing may include:

• Supply Chain Management 
• Marketing for Competitive Advantage
• Managing Human Resources 
• Strategy Formulation & Strategic Thinking 
• Strategic Marketing Management 
• Marketing Promotions 
• Market Research
• Brand Management

There are several start dates throughout the year, so you can get started on your marketing doctorate right away. Online students will learn from professors with years of experience in marketing and business. Classes are asynchronous. So you can access your course materials 24/7 whenever it is convenient for you. Liberty also offers a convenient master’s degree in marketing online . 

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Marketing Ph.D. Tuition: $7,893

Kennesaw State University

Kennesaw, Georgia

Ph.D. in Business Administration With a Concentration in Marketing

KSU features a hybrid Ph.D. in Business Administration with a Marketing Concentration. It is offered through the Coles College of Business. This innovative program is AACSB-accredited and highly flexible. Most of the coursework is online. However, online students must come to campus each month for weekend residencies. The 48-credit program takes about three to five years to complete. Some of the areas of study for this marketing doctorate include:

• Business-To-Business Marketing
• Communication: Advertising and Promotion
• Marketing and Consumer Behavior
• Consumer Privacy
• Emerging Markets
• International Marketing
• New Product and Technology Adoption
• Sales Management
• Sales Performance
• Sustainability

This online program prepares candidates for leadership roles in teaching, research, and academia. Courses are taught by KSU’s well-published faculty. All marketing students in this program must complete a research-based dissertation. However, they can choose from a two-paper dissertation or a longer single-essay dissertation. 

Prospective PhD students can attend in-person workshops, information sessions, and more. This will allow them to interact with students currently enrolled in the program. And it will enable them to see if it is a good fit before they fully commit. Marketing students can only enter the program in the Fall semester. 

Marketing Ph.D. Tuition: $5,328

University of Maryland

College Park, Maryland

The University of Maryland features a Marketing DBA. It is offered through the Smith School of Business and the UM Global Campus. This 54-credit program can be completed in as little as three years. DBA students are required to attend a two-day residency each term. However, beyond that, the coursework is entirely online. Marketing students will work with a faculty mentor to design a program to meet their goals. Some of the areas of research include:

• Marketing Analytics
• Digital/Technology Marketing
• E-Commerce and Retail Management
• Social Media Strategies
• Customer Relationship Management
• Brand and Product Management
• Advertising and Marketing Communications
• New Product Development and Innovations

Students take this program as a cohort. This structure promotes interactive partnerships among faculty and students. And it serves as a network for lifelong learning. Students also benefit from exposure to global perspectives. And they have the opportunity to collaborate with classmates from all over the world. 

The Marketing DBA is a terminal degree designed for experienced professionals. Students in this online program will gain leadership skills and high-level knowledge for executive roles in marketing. UMA also offers an excellent master’s degree program in marketing . 

Accreditation: Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools

Marketing Ph.D. Tuition: $16,238

Grand Canyon University

Phoenix, Arizona

Doctor Of Business Administration in Marketing

Grand Canyon University features two DBA in Marketing online programs. The first is a DBA in Marketing that focuses on Quantitative Research. The second is a DBA in Marketing that focuses on Qualitative Research. Choosing the right one for you will depend on your interests and goals. 

In the Quantitative program, students analyze events by interpreting numeric data. The Qualitative program offers insight into how and why people think and behave. Some of the online courses for this marketing doctoral program may include:

• Emerging Issues in Financial Management
• The History and Philosophy of Marketing
• Foundations of Research Design
• Digital Technology and Consumer Behavior
• Data-Driven Marketing Management
• Complexity of Marketing
• Data Collection and Management

Students will need to participate in two or three five-day residencies. These take place on the GCU campus in Phoenix. They allow doctoral students to benefit from networking opportunities with other business leaders and marketing professionals. 

The online DBA programs both require 60 credits. Grand Canyon University allows students to transfer in up to nine of them. Coursework is primarily asynchronous. This will enable you to fit your studies around your busy schedule. Online doctoral students have many resources to help them succeed. They can access academic counseling, technical support, eBooks, and more. Financial aid and scholarships are available. 

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Marketing Ph.D. Tuition: $10,655

National University

Doctor of business administration in strategic marketing.

National University features a 100% online DBA in Strategic Marketing. No residencies or campus visits are required to complete the program. This DBA provides high-level training for leadership business roles. The marketing specialization focuses on advanced digital marketing tools and real-world global strategies. With this online program, you can earn your DBA in Marketing in about 64 months. Courses are eight weeks long. Some of them include:

• Business Strategy and Innovation
• Ethics in Business
• Quantitative Research Design and Methodology
• Qualitative Research Design and Methodology
• Marketing Change Leadership
• Marketing Economics Innovation
• Marketing Science
• Strategic Marketing Communication
• Global Product Strategy

Students can also opt to pursue a Ph.D. in Business with a Specialization in Strategic Marketing . This online program focuses on research-based leadership strategies. Students gain the skills to lead dynamic marketing campaigns ethically and effectively. 

The Ph.D. also has no residency requirements. This 60-credit program can be completed in about 40 months. And there is a new start date every Monday, so you can begin your doctoral degree immediately. 

The coursework is asynchronous. So students can complete their studies at their own pace. No group projects are involved. Scholarships and financial aid may be available. The programs are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. NU also offers a top-ranked master’s degree program in marketing. It’s an online MBA with a Specialization in Marketing.

Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission

Marketing Ph.D. Tuition: $15,912

Pace University

New York, New York

Doctor of Professional Studies in Business: Marketing Specialization

Pace University features a hybrid Doctor of Professional Studies in Business. Students can further customize the doctoral degree with an optional Marketing Specialization. The program is offered through the Lubin School of Business. And it is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. It is designed to help you achieve your professional goals in academia or the workplace. 

Coursework is flexible and convenient. And you can complete your assignments on your own time. The program can be completed in three to five years. Students move through the program as a cohort. The program has an excellent selection of marketing electives. And that makes it one of the best programs in our school ranking. Some of the courses may include:

• Marketing Management
• Consumer Research
• Consumer and Organization Buying Behavior 
• Market Measurement and Forecasting 
• Business Research and Survey Methods 
• Advertising and Sales Promotion 
• Advertising Campaign and Media Strategy 
• New Product Planning and Development
• International Marketing 
• Advanced Case Studies in Marketing Management 
• Marketing of Services
• Marketing of Financial Services 
• Entrepreneurial Marketing 
• Business-to-Business Marketing 
• Interactive and Direct Marketing 
• Customer Relationship Management 
• Strategic Marketing Planning

Students in this online program will need to attend doctoral seminars 10 Fridays each year. These are mandatory and make up 20 percent of your overall grade. The campus is located in New York City near Wall Street. These in-person experiences will allow you to collaborate with your cohort and instructors. Additionally, students will have many opportunities to meet with their cohort online. During these times, you can exchange viewpoints and insights and discuss your assignments. 

All doctoral candidates complete a six-credit, two-semester, independent-study publishing tutorial sequence. This is completed under the supervision of a Lubin faculty member. Candidates for this Ph.D. marketing online program will conduct research and develop expertise on a topic of their choice. 

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Marketing Ph.D. Tuition: $25,560

Keiser University

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Keiser University features an online DBA with a specialization in Marketing. This program is for experienced business professionals and future members of academia. Students will learn advanced leadership and decision-making skills. And there is a strong focus on the global business environment. The DBA program features three specializations. These include Marketing, Management, or Global Business. For the Marketing Specialization, students will take courses like:

• Global Business
• Marketing Management 
• Strategic Decision-Making for Managers 
• Methods and Analysis of Quantitative Research
• Survey Research Methods
• Business Research and Publication 
• Emerging Issues in Marketing 
• Seminar in Global Marketing
• Seminar in Marketing Models and Theory 
• Consumer Behavior Theory and Practice 

Students in this program will need to come to campus for two residencies. The first takes place during the first year. The second occurs prior to taking the comprehensive exam. A dissertation is required. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. 

The program requires 60 graduate semester credit hours. It can be completed in 24 to 42 months. The time for completion depends on individual factors. However, students can transfer in up to 18 credits toward this doctoral degree. Courses are all eight weeks in length. And they are taught by the same world-class faculty that teaches on campus. 

Marketing Ph.D. Tuition: $30,032

Alliant International University

Doctor of business administration with a specialization in marketing.

Alliant International University features an online DBA with a Specialization in Marketing. It is offered through the California School of Management and Leadership. And it is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. With this program, you can earn your DBA in as little as three years. However, you can also take longer if you want to. Courses are scheduled in eight-week term formats. And students take one or two courses per term. Some of the courses may include:

• Qualitative Research Methods
• Contemporary Readings in Marketing
• Marketing Research and Data Analytics
• Organizational Behavior and Development
• Creating Change and Innovation
• Leadership of Cross-Cultural and International Management
• Critical Issues in Business Management

The marketing specialization provides an overview of marketing across a variety of areas. You will learn how marketing is used in organizational strategy. You will experience real-world applications of marketing and business. And you will participate in internships or experiential projects. These experiences will help you with your professional growth. 

Alliant has an impressive student-to-faculty ratio of 5 to 1. Additionally, class sizes are small. So students get focused attention from their professors. All students will complete a dissertation. For this, candidates will be paired with a faculty mentor. Their mentor will guide them through the entire dissertation process. Financial aid and scholarship opportunities are available for this DBA program. 

Baker College

Owosso, Michigan

Doctor of Business Administration with a Specialization in Marketing

Baker College offers an online Doctor of Business Administration. Students in this program can design their own specialized field of study. In this case, a candidate would specialize in marketing. During the first year, they will complete the prescribed content. In the second year, they move to independent research focused on their area of interest. 

The program requires a total of 60 credits and can be completed in just three and a half years. You will complete doctoral core classes and those related to your specialty. Some of the courses may include:

• Leadership Theory and Ethics
• Global Financial Economy
• Organizational Theory and Behavior
• Digital Marketing 
• Multichannel Selling 
• Advanced Marketing Research 
• Marketing for Entrepreneurial Ventures 
• Marketing Strategy and Design

Students will need to attend at least one professional residency. This takes place during the first or second year. They will also complete a research-based dissertation. Doctor of Business Administration students will gain the knowledge to solve problems at the highest level of business. And they will graduate with the skills to move into high-level roles. They will also be equipped to begin a career in academia. 

What Is a Marketing Degree?

Marketing is the process of promoting and selling a business or service. And it’s a huge component of the business field. Marketing includes market research, advertising, and so much more. However, from a more practical standpoint, marketing is a study of relationships. Marketers are responsible for creating positive relationships between customers and businesses. 

A marketing degree is a program designed to prepare you for all that. Marketing is a fast-paced field because consumers are constantly changing. It takes creativity, flexibility, and strong skills in problem-solving. When you earn a marketing degree, you’ll develop those crucial skills and gain so much more along the way.

There are different types of marketing degrees. You can study marketing at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. You can even take some marketing business courses at the associate level. However, most entry-level jobs will require at least a bachelor’s in marketing. You can also pursue an undergraduate degree in a related field to lay the groundwork for graduate study in marketing. 

At the graduate level, a Master’s in Business Administration program. is the primary option. You can take a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in marketing. Some online schools may also offer a Master of Science in Marketing, but the MBA is more widely available. 

There are also PhDs in Marketing. These programs go into marketing on a much deeper level. Students learn advanced business research methods. And they spend a lot of time on their own areas of interest. These programs are geared more toward those wanting a research or academic career. But again, the Doctor of Business Administration seems to be offered at most institutions. A Doctor of Business Administration in Marketing prepares you for advanced careers in the field. 

What Does a Marketing Degree Teach You?

Since marketing is such a huge discipline, a marketing degree has much to teach you. In an undergraduate marketing program, the curriculum will give you a broad overview of business. And it will cover the core principles of marketing. You can use this degree to find an entry-level marketing position. But it can also be an excellent foundation for graduate study. It all depends on your interests and professional goals. Some of the core marketing classes in online DBA programs may include:

• Business-to-Business Marketing
• Consumer Behavior
• Macroeconomics
• Managerial Communications
• Digital Marketing
• Principles of Finance
• Principles of International Business
• Principles of Management
• Principles of Marketing
• Supply Chain Management
• Advanced Business Research Methods
• Marketing Strategy

As you advance academically, the courses get more in-depth. And they are tailored toward more specific aspects of marketing. 

How to Get a PhD in Marketing Degree

Getting a PhD in marketing requires dedication, hard work, and perseverance. Such online programs are rigorous and challenging. But if you are determined to earn your doctorate degree, you can do it! Here are the general steps to earning a Ph.D. or Doctor of Business Administration in Marketing online.

Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

The first step to getting a Ph.D. in marketing is to earn a bachelor’s degree. You could pursue a bachelor’s degree in marketing, of course. But you can also look into degrees in related fields. These may include business, accounting, business management, economics, or finance. You will need a strong academic background in these areas. This will help you prepare for the rigorous coursework and research required for a Doctor of Business Administration.

There are numerous bachelor’s marketing programs both on campus and online. So this step is relatively easy. 

Gain Work Experience

Many Ph.D. programs prefer candidates with some work experience in the field of marketing. This may be in the form of internships, entry-level roles, or other relevant experience.

Research Programs

Research online doctoral programs in marketing. Then, identify those that align with your interests and career goals. Look for programs that have expert faculty and funding opportunities. The best marketing Ph.D. programs also have a good track record of job placement after graduation.

Apply to Programs

Once you have a list of the top online doctoral marketing programs that interest you, you are ready to apply. You will need to carefully and thoroughly submit your application materials. These usually include transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.

Complete Coursework

Once accepted into a doctoral program, you must complete the required coursework. You will also likely have electives to choose from. Your courses will prepare you to conduct independent research in your area of interest.

Pass Comprehensive Exams

After completing coursework, you will need to pass comprehensive exams. These exams will test your knowledge of marketing theory and research methods.

Conduct Research

The bulk of a doctoral online marketing program involves research. This independent research will be in your area of interest. And it will culminate in a dissertation. Your dissertation demonstrates your mastery of the subject. And it contributes new knowledge to the field.

Defend Dissertation

Once your dissertation is complete, you will need to defend it before a committee of faculty members. This tests your ability to articulate your findings and defend your conclusions.

Obtain Degree

Once you have successfully defended your dissertation, you will be awarded your degree. 

What Can You Do With a Marketing Degree?

Marketing is all about promoting products and services. But a lot of roles fall under that umbrella. As a result, there are numerous marketing careers to pursue with a doctorate in marketing online. All businesses need people who are skilled in various areas of marketing. Some common job titles in the field include:

• Brand Manager
• Content Marketing Producer
• Brand Strategist
• Client Strategist
• Data Scientist
• Product Manager
• Marketing Manager
• Research Analyst
• Media Planner
• Promotions Coordinator
• SEO Manager
• Director of Internet Marketing
• Social Media Coordinator
• Digital Marketing Specialist
• Director of Web Analytics

What Tasks Are Involved in a High-Level Marketing Role?

With a doctoral degree in marketing, you’ll be qualified to perform a wide range of tasks. These will depend on the company and your position. However, here are some typical tasks involved in a high-level marketing role:

• Conducting market research to identify customer needs, preferences, and trends.
• Analyzing and interpreting market data to inform marketing decisions.
• Developing and implementing marketing strategies and plans to achieve business objectives.
• Collaborating with other departments to ensure marketing efforts align with overall business goals.
• Developing and managing marketing budgets and resources.
• Managing and leading marketing teams, including hiring, training, and performance management.
• Creating and managing marketing campaigns across multiple channels. This includes digital, social media, print, and more.
• Developing and managing relationships with agencies, vendors, and media outlets.
• Developing and managing marketing automation and CRM systems.
• Developing and implementing brand positioning and messaging.
• Managing product launches and go-to-market strategies.
• Measuring and analyzing marketing performance and ROI and making data-driven decisions.

What Can I Do With a Doctorate or PhD in Marketing?

A PhD in Marketing is the academic apex. And it is a sign of years of dedicated study and professional experience. A doctorate in marketing opens you up to an incredible range of opportunities. You’re essentially an expert because you hold the highest level of education one can obtain. As a result, many who have earned their PhD in Marketing opt to work in an educational setting.

Most colleges require their tenure-track professors to hold PhDs in their respective fields. However, there are other avenues you could pursue in academia. With that said, it’s worth noting that marketing professors are some of the highest-paid in education. That’s because the field is continually evolving and growing. So education plays a massive role in that. You could also get an even higher-level job at a university as a department leader or program director.

If you’re not interested in working in education, that’s okay. There are even more opportunities for marketers in the business world. Marketing experts are very desirable to employers. The skills they have can put businesses ahead of the curve. 

A common position for those with a Doctor of Business Administration in Marketing is that of a Market Research Analyst. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the need for these professionals will increase by 19% over the next decade. That’s much higher than the average for all other occupations. As an analyst, you gather data about specific populations and their purchasing behavior and habits. You then use that information to provide industry guidance. Engineering, medicine, management, finance, and government rely heavily on such research. So the demand is growing for those well-equipped to handle this role.

With a doctorate in marketing, you could also land yourself a position as a top executive. Chief Marketing Officers lead broad marketing and sales teams. They are responsible for overseeing all the marketing, sales, and advertising for a particular business. They use their expertise to develop effective teams and strategies. And their skills impact the organizations they work for positively. 

Do you want to ensure you’re prepared for the professional marketing role you desire? Be sure to tailor your academic journey to those goals. Work closely with your advisor to select an appropriate plan of study. Explore electives to bolster your skills. Consider taking internships that give you direct field experience. The more equipped you are to handle the specific tasks of a role, the more desirable you’ll be as a candidate.

How Much Can You Make With a DBA or PhD Marketing Degree?

Marketing is a field that is known to pay very well. However, it is essential to keep in mind that there are a lot of different factors that contribute to your salary. These can include your education, work experience, and geographic location, among other things.

The higher your education is, the higher your salary tends to be. Those with a doctorate in marketing have the skills and experience needed for higher-level positions. Here’s a list of some of the highest-paying careers you could hold with a marketing degree and their average salary:

Ph.D. in Marketing Salary Averages

Figures are taken from Glassdoor , PayScale , Salary Explorer, and BLS .

This concludes our ranking of the top marketing Ph.D. programs.

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Online PhD in Digital Marketing Admission 2024, Results, Steps to Apply, FAQs

Online doctor of philosophy in digital marketing.

Online Courses

Postgraduate Degree in a Relevant Discipline With Minimum 55% Marks ( 50% for SC/ST Candidates )

Online Doctorate Degree Courses

Online PhD in Digital Marketing,Highlights, Entrance Exam, admission, Eligibility, Duration, Selection Criteria, How to Apply, Application Form, Application Process, fee, Syllabus,Salary and Jobs,career opportunities

A PhD in Digital Marketing is a research-intensive program that focuses on providing students with a deep understanding of the theories and practices of marketing in a digital environment. Here are some highlights, eligibility criteria, admission requirements, application process, fees, syllabus, and career opportunities for pursuing a PhD in Digital Marketing.

Online PhD in Digital Marketing Highlights:

The program provides advanced research skills in digital marketing, including research design, data analysis, and research methods.

Students can specialize in various areas of digital marketing, such as social media, e-commerce, mobile marketing, and data analytics.

The program offers opportunities for research collaboration with leading digital marketing professionals and academics.

Graduates of the program can pursue academic careers in universities or work in various industries as digital marketing experts.

Online PhD in Digital Marketing Eligibility Criteria:

Candidates must have a master's degree in a relevant discipline from a recognized university.

A minimum of 55% or equivalent grade point average is required in the qualifying examination.

Some universities may also require candidates to have relevant work experience in the field of digital marketing.

Online PhD in Digital Marketing Entrance Exam:

Some universities may require candidates to take an entrance exam, such as the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).

Online PhD in Digital Marketing Admission Requirements:

Candidates need to submit their academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and a research proposal.

Some universities may also require candidates to participate in an interview.

Online PhD in Digital Marketing Duration:

The duration of the program is typically between 3-5 years, depending on the university and the research topic.

Online PhD in Digital Marketing Selection Criteria:

Candidates are typically selected based on their academic record, research proposal, and interview performance.

Online PhD in Digital Marketing How to Apply:

Candidates need to visit the university's official website and fill out the online application form.

Candidates also need to submit their academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and research proposal.

Some universities may also require candidates to pay an application fee.

Online PhD in Digital Marketing Application Process:

Fill out the online application form and attach the required documents.

Submit the application and pay the application fee, if required.

Wait for the university's decision.

Online PhD in Digital Marketing Fees:

The fees for a PhD in Digital Marketing vary depending on the university and the country. However, on average, the fees range from $15,000 to $30,000 per year.

Online PhD in Digital Marketing Syllabus:

The syllabus for a PhD in Digital Marketing typically includes courses such as:

Digital Marketing Strategy and Planning

Advanced Research Methods in Digital Marketing

Social Media Marketing

E-Commerce and Mobile Marketing

Data Analytics for Digital Marketing

Online PhD in Digital Marketing Salary and Jobs:

The salary and job opportunities for graduates of a PhD in Digital Marketing are typically quite lucrative. Graduates can pursue academic careers in universities or work in various industries as digital marketing experts. The average salary for a digital marketing expert is around $80,000 per year, with senior positions earning upwards of $120,000 per year.

Online PhD in Digital Marketing Career Opportunities:

Digital Marketing Strategist

Marketing Analyst

E-Commerce Manager

Social Media Manager

Digital Marketing Consultant

University Professor

Data Analyst.

ONLINE PHD IN DIGITAL MARKETING  

A PhD in Digital Marketing is a 3 years online program that can give you the opportunity to specialize in business research. A PhD is also one of the highest educational qualifications that you can get in the fields. 

Digital marketing is an innovative and future-ready field, and it’s already essential for many businesses. In a digital marketing PhD program, you can work toward becoming a domain expert and get firsthand experiences with research. 

With the growing number of distance learning options, it’s now more convenient than ever to earn this lucrative doctorate. 

PhD in Digital Marketing Online Programs: 

PhD in Digital Marketing programs are focused on creating scholars and knowledgeable experts who can help the industry move forward with the original research. You can be trained to use your data analysis skills to solve marketing challenges. 

Digital marketing is a quickly evolving field that relies on the latest technology. 

It spans many of the modern tools and strategies currently used by the companies to reach their target audiences, including social media, email, search engines, websites, and analytics.

As a digital marketing PhD candidate, you’ll likely choose a specific research question and build your expertise around that area. Doctorate programs in digital marketing typically emphasize econometrics, statistical analysis, and experimental research. You’ll likely take classes on marketing theories and applications as well. 

During the second half of your PhD program, you’ll probably spend most of your time working on the dissertations that can be published in an academic journal.

Most programs will provide opportunities to learn how to critically analyze current papers on digital marketing and will have experienced faculty members with similar research expertise that can help guide you. 

Different programs offer different concentrations, but here are some of the most common research areas: 

• Consumer culture
• International marketing
• Product development
• Marketing innovation
• Social media sentiments
• Online advertising

To create an original research paper, you can study advanced models in marketing along with special topics. You can also practice using mathematical and economics tools to get insights from data. 

Digital Marketing Careers and Salaries:

Chief Executives - $179,520

Marketing Managers - $135,030

Sales Managers

Advertising and Promotions Managers -  $127,150

Training and Development Managers

Public Relations and Fundraising Managers - $119,860

General and Operations Managers  -  $97,970

Business Teachers, Postsecondary - $94,360

Market Research Analysts  - $63,920

Public Relations Specialists -  $62,800 

• Microeconomic Theory: This course explores how individuals and organizations interact in the different market structures, utilizing game theory to make predictions for decision-making.
• Econometrics: Going beyond economic theory, this course discusses how to make forecasts and draw cause-and-effect relationships through data analysis tools.
• Statistical Analysis: This course lays the groundwork for the more advanced research classes by covering statistical methods for gathering and analyzing data.
• Qualitative Research: This class can give you the opportunity to have hands-on practice with the qualitative research methods—such as one-on-one interviews, focus groups, and observations—and learn how to write the reports about your findings. 

ADMISSION PROCESS

Most digital marketing PhD programs have the following admission requirements: 

• School transcripts. You’ll probably be asked to submit transcripts of all your previous undergraduate and graduate work.
• GMAT or GRE scores. Some doctorate programs still ask for standardized test scores, but a growing number of the schools no longer require them.
• Recommendation letters. PhD programs generally favor academic references from former professors.
• Personal statement. You’ll typically be asked to describe your career goals and research plans.
• Resume. Admission officers may want to see if you’ve done any related work in your career. 

TOP UNIVERSITIES:

• GEORGE FOX UNIVERSITY
• CALIFORNIA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY
• CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY
• LIBERTY UNIVERSITY
• NORTH CENTRAL UNIVERSITY

Live Application Form 2024

Gokul Global University

• Sidhpur, Gujarat

Assam Agricultural University - AAU

• Jorhat, Assam

Department of Clinical Psychology, School of Allied Health Sciences, Manipal University - DCPSAHSMU

• Manipal, Karnataka

ITM Skills University - ISU

• Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra

Noorul Islam Centre for Higher Education

• Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu

ITM University - IU

• Raipur-Chhattisgarh, Chhattisgarh

Documents Required For Online PhD in Digital Marketing Admission

• Migration Certificate (No objection certificate from the University last attended)
• Passing/Degree certificate of the last qualifying degree examination
• Mark-list of the last qualifying degree examination
• Character certificate (from the head of the Institute from which the student has obtained his qualifying degree.
• Documentary proof for date of birth
• Gap certificate (if applicable)
• Research Proposal *
• No objection certificate from the employer (if employed)

NOTE:- Students are requested to note that their application will not be considered for admission if the above certificates are not enclosed with their application.

Online PhD in Digital Marketing: Course Highlights

Given below are few of the important highlights of the program.

Colleges offering Online PhD in Digital Marketing in India

Mentioned below are some states in India that offer the program.

Patliputra University

Top colleges 2024.

Madhav University

SunRise University

Indira Gandhi National Open University - IGNOU

Guru Kashi University

Maharshi Dayanand University

Pacific University

Kurukshetra University

Centurion University of Technology and Management - CUTM

KREA University - KU

Rajiv Gandhi University - RGU

SRM University

Assam University - AU

Tezpur University - TU

Central University of South Bihar - CUSB

Mahatma Gandhi Central University - MGCU

Nalanda University - NU

Jamia Millia Islamia

VIT-AP University - VU

Apex Professional University - APU

Arunachal University of Studies

Arunodaya University

Himalayan University

North East Frontier Technical University

Indira Gandhi Technological and Medical Science University

Venkateshwara Open University - VOU

Assam Don Bosco University - ADBU

Assam Down Town University - ADTU

Krishnaguru Adhyatmik Visvavidyalaya - KAV

Mahapurusha Srimanta Sankaradeva Viswavidyalaya - MSSV

The Assam Kaziranga University - AKU

The Assam Royal Global University

Amity University - AU

Dr C. V. Raman University

Gopal Narayan Singh University - GNSU

K K University

Sandip University

Ahmedabad University

Anant National University - ANU

Atmiya University - AU

AURO University of Hospitality and Management

C. U. Shah University

Calorx Teacher's University

Charotar University of Science and Technology

Jawaharlal Nehru University

Dhirubhai Ambani Institute of Information and Communication Technology

G.L.S. University

Ganpat University

GSFC University

Indian Institute of Public Health

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Best Online Graduate Certificate in Marketing Programs 2025

Written by Alex Kale

Updated: August 28, 2024

Find your online program in minutes!

Most schools have rolling admissions and financial help so you can start your degree in a few weeks!

An online graduate certificate in marketing is an excellent way for those with an undergraduate degree to level up their career prospects without the responsibility and costs of an MBA. These programs focus on cultivating in-demand skills like data analysis, digital marketing, and brand management, making graduates competitive for roles such as market research analysts, where the median salary is $74,680 . With the field projected to add 94,600 new jobs annually over the next decade, demand for skilled professionals is high. Most programs can be completed in one to two years, offering a flexible, efficient path to advancing your marketing career.

How to Choose an Online Graduate Certificate in Marketing Program

Choose your area of study.

Some students may know exactly what they want to study for their certificate in marketing, while others may be less certain. If you find yourself in the latter category, ask yourself:

• What are my career goals?
• Which skills are most valued in my industry?
• Do I prefer creative or data-driven work?

Popular options include marketing analytics, which focuses on interpreting data to drive strategy, and social media marketing, where you’ll learn to engage audiences and build a brand presence online. Other in-demand areas include digital and content marketing, each offering unique career opportunities.

Research schools and programs

With your area of study in mind, you can begin researching schools and programs for this certificate. Consider using the following questions to guide your research:

• What is the program’s reputation in the industry?
• Does the curriculum align with my career goals?
• Are the faculty experienced professionals in the field?
• What networking opportunities or career services are available?

Most of this information will be readily available on program websites, but you can also contact an admissions counselor or attend a virtual open house or information session.

Prepare for tests and applications

Most of these programs offer a straightforward application process, but attention to detail is essential in creating a standout application. Start by requesting transcripts early, as these can take time to process. If recommendations are needed, reach out to potential recommenders well in advance.

Writing a strong personal statement is crucial — begin drafting it early to allow time for revisions. For students applying to more than one program, be sure to tailor your statement to each school, describing how your experience and career goals align with the program’s values and objectives.

Select your program

When acceptance letters arrive, you may have a big decision to make. You can make this easier by revisiting your initial research criteria and focusing on what matters most to you — such as curriculum relevance, program reputation, and flexibility in course scheduling.

At this stage, it’s crucial to carefully review the cost of attendance if you haven’t already. Compare this figure with any financial aid offers to determine affordability, ensuring your chosen program supports your long-term objectives and fits your budget.

Determine how you’ll pay for your degree

Similar to most degree programs, solid financial planning is essential when pursuing your graduate certificate in marketing. Start by exploring scholarships and grants, which don’t need to be repaid. Next, check if your employer offers tuition reimbursement — many do, especially for programs that improve job skills. If you need to borrow, prioritize federal loans, as they often offer lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options than private loans.

With any educational investment, it’s important to carefully consider the total cost and your potential ROI to make an informed financial decision. Financial aid resources may vary by program, but they’re often similar to those for full degrees, so be sure to explore all available options.

Best 50 Accredited Online Graduate Certificate in Marketing Programs

intelligent score 97.54

#2 Best Colleges #2 Best Value Schools

School Information

Champaign, IL

Graduation Rate: 86%

Admission Rate: 60%

Urbanicity: City

School Size: Large

Delivery Format Online

Required Credits to Graduate 12

Estimated Cost per Credit $332

accreditation Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 217-300-2481

intelligent score 96.05

#1 Best Colleges #16 Best Value Schools

Cambridge, MA

Graduation Rate: 98%

Admission Rate: 4%

School Size: Medium

Delivery Format Online, On- Campus

Estimated Cost per Credit $1,073

accreditation New England Commission of Higher Education

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 617-998-8571

intelligent score 94.82

#3 Best Colleges #13 Best Value Schools

University Park, PA

Graduation Rate: 70%

Admission Rate: 92%

Estimated Cost per Credit $1,056

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 814-865-5290

intelligent score 94.48

#6 Best Colleges #7 Best Value Schools

Lynchburg, VA

Graduation Rate: 36%

Admission Rate: 99%

Required Credits to Graduate 9

Estimated Cost per Credit $565

accreditation Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on College

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 877-298-9617

intelligent score 94.38

#2 ZDNet #7 Best Colleges #9 Best Value Schools

Fort Collins, CO

Graduation Rate: 72%

Admission Rate: 90%

Estimated Cost per Credit $998

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 970-491-6909

intelligent score 93.59

#5 Best Colleges #18 Best Value Schools

Graduation Rate: 88%

Admission Rate: 19%

Required Credits to Graduate 16

Estimated Cost per Credit $535 - $955

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 617-358-8162

intelligent score 93.21

#5 Best Value Schools #8 Best Colleges

Greenville, NC

Graduation Rate: 68%

Admission Rate: 94%

Estimated Cost per Credit In-State: $414 Out-of-State: $1,145

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 252-328-6804

intelligent score 92.13

#6 Best Value Schools #9 Best Colleges

Vermillion, SD

Graduation Rate: 53%

Admission Rate: 87%

Urbanicity: Town

Estimated Cost per Credit $470

accreditation Higher Learning Commision

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 605-658-6140

intelligent score 91.67

#1 Best Value Schools

Admission Rate: 29%

Estimated Cost per Credit $237

accreditation Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 949-824-7856

intelligent score 91.22

#10 Best Colleges #14 Best Value Schools

Seattle, WA

Admission Rate: 100%

School Size: Small

Required Credits to Graduate 15

Estimated Cost per Credit $735

accreditation Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 800-426-5596

intelligent score 91.00

Cincinnati, OH

Admission Rate: 85%

Estimated Cost per Credit $916

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 513-556-1100

intelligent score 89.18

New Castle, DE

Graduation Rate: 44%

Urbanicity: Suburban

Estimated Cost per Credit $524

accreditation International Accreditation Council for Business Education

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 877-967-5464

intelligent score 87.03

Grand Rapids, MI

Graduation Rate: 38%

Admission Rate: 98%

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 800-686-1600

intelligent score 86.73

Graduation Rate: 75%

Admission Rate: 64%

Required Credits to Graduate 16-24

Estimated Cost per Credit $806

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 303-871-2706

intelligent score 85.43

Gainesville, GA

Graduation Rate: 45%

Admission Rate: 89%

Estimated Cost per Credit $824

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 800-694-4265

Discover More Options

How we rank schools.

This list features some of the best online graduate certificate in marketing programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for postsecondary education.

We evaluated each school’s program on admission, retention, and graduation rates as well as tuition costs, faculty, reputation, and the resources provided for online students. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100. Read more about our ranking methodology .

Next, we compared this comprehensive list of online graduate certificate in marketing programs to a list of aggregated college rankings from reputable publications like U.S. News & World Report, among others, to simplify a student’s college search. We pored through these rankings so students don’t have to.

What Can You Expect From an Online Graduate Certificate in Marketing Program?

An online graduate certificate in marketing offers a flexible, focused route for students to gain knowledge and skills in marketing without committing to an entire MBA program. Typically completed in one to two years, these programs allow students to specialize in digital marketing, brand management, or market research. You can expect to gain essential skills in consumer behavior, marketing strategy, data analytics, and digital tools, which are crucial for today’s competitive marketing roles.

The online format of these programs provides the flexibility to balance your studies with other commitments — like a full-time job or raising a family — making it an ideal choice for professionals looking to level up their careers.

Potential courses you’ll take in an online graduate certificate in marketing program

• Digital Marketing Strategy: A fundamental component in most programs, this course teaches students how to develop, implement, and analyze digital marketing campaigns. You’ll learn about SEO, social media marketing, content marketing, and how to leverage data analytics to optimize online presence.
• Consumer Behavior: Frequently deemed a cornerstone in most marketing programs – regardless of degree level – this course explores the psychological, social, and cultural factors influencing consumer decisions. Understanding these behaviors helps marketers create strategies that effectively target and engage specific audiences.
• Brand Management: This course focuses on creating and maintaining a brand’s image, identity, and value in the marketplace. Students will learn about brand equity, positioning, and managing a brand’s reputation over time.
• Marketing Analytics: In this course, participants will learn how to collect, analyze, and interpret data to make informed marketing decisions. It covers the tools and techniques for measuring marketing performance, customer segmentation, and predicting consumer trends.
• Integrated Marketing Communications: This upper-level course examines how to coordinate and integrate different communication channels – such as advertising, public relations, and digital media – to create a cohesive marketing strategy. Participants will learn how to ensure consistent messaging across all platforms, an essential skill for any future marketer.

Online Graduate Certificate in Marketing Degree Frequently Asked Questions

How do i apply to an online graduate certificate in marketing program.

Many of these programs feature a relatively straightforward application process. While requirements may vary, most programs typically ask for the following:

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Official transcripts from all previous academic work
• A current resume
• A statement of purpose
• Letters of recommendation, if required

Working with an admissions counselor can provide additional guidance, answer specific questions, and help ensure a smooth application process.

How much does an online graduate certificate in marketing program cost?

The cost of an online graduate certificate in marketing varies depending on the program and the number of credits required — usually ranging from nine to 18 credits. While specific data isn’t available, costs can be compared to the average tuition for a graduate degree program, which is $20,513 per year .

How long does it take to earn an online graduate certificate in marketing program?

Obtaining your certificate in marketing will take one to two years, depending on the program and the number of credits required. The time it takes to complete the program can vary based on your personal schedule and the amount of time you can dedicate to your studies. Some students may finish faster by taking more courses each term, while others may take longer — especially if they balance work, family, or other commitments.

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