Editor's note: We earn commissions from Forbes Advisor partner links. Commissions do not influence editors' opinions or ratings.
A career in marketing offers diverse and exciting opportunities for people with creativity, strategic thinking and a knack for data analysis who want to make an impactful contribution to businesses and brands.
A PhD marketing degree is the most advanced degree you can earn in this field. This will help you advance your career as a marketer 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 key areas such as consumer behavior, market research techniques, strategic marketing planning, and new digital marketing strategies.
This guide provides an overview of two online Ph.D. Included in marketing programs that meet ranking criteria such as reliability, affordability, student outcomes, and student experience. Look at what these programs have to offer.
Online Marketing PhD Options
- Kennesaw State University
- National university
Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw State University's online Ph.D. in Business Administration with an Emphasis in Marketing is designed for working adults who want to continue their careers while furthering their education.
In lieu of online courses, students attend weekend training once a month at our campus in Kennesaw, Georgia. In classes from Friday to Sunday, you will learn research methods and data analysis. Students may also take seminars and prepare papers.
In the third year, students focus on paper requirements without face-to-face requirements. Research areas include topics related to consumer behavior and marketing strategy.
Online tuition for graduate students is the same for in-state and out-of-state students, at $383 per credit.
At a glance
- School type: Public
- Application fee: $60
- Degree credit requirement: 48 credits
- Program enrollment options: Full-time
- Notable major-specific courses: Research Overview, Analysis of Distributed Designs
- Available concentrations: N/A
- In-person requirement: Yes, one weekend per month
National university
National University, based in San Diego, offers Ph.D. Business Administration, Strategic Marketing Online with no in-person requirements. After you register, you can start on any Monday that is convenient for you.
The program requires at least five core courses, five specialized courses, two statistics courses, five research courses, and one doctoral elective and takes approximately six years to complete.
National University is a Yellow Ribbon School offering exclusive scholarships to active duty military and veterans. Standard tuition is $442 per 4 semester credits.
At a glance
- School type: Private
- Application fee: Free
- Degree credit requirement: 60 credits
- Program enrollment options: full-time, part-time
- Featured specialized subjects: Changing times: 21st century business administration, corporate financial system
- Available concentrations: N/A
- In-person requirement: No
How to Find the Right Online Ph.D. in Marketing for You
pro tips
Please make sure you are able to participate in the required in-person activities and synchronous classes before registering.
If you decide to pursue a PhD online, consider these important marketing factors to guide your search.
think about future goals
There are two types of doctoral degrees available in marketing. He holds a Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA). PhD programs are research-focused and can help you with a career in academia or research. The DBA program is aimed at business he leaders seeking specialized skills.
Online students should consider program delivery and whether they will be required to attend in-person training or classes. Some programs provide classes asynchronously. This means you can log in whenever it's convenient for you and review lectures in your free time. Other universities require you to attend classes at a designated date and time. Consider whether you need the flexibility to study around your schedule.
You may be able to graduate faster with an in-person training program. However, if you attend school far from home, you will need to budget for transportation costs and time away from family and work.
Understand expenses and financing options
A PhD degree from National University costs $26,520, while the same degree from Kennesaw State University costs at least $18,384.
However, tuition fees for doctoral programs vary widely depending on the school. It depends on your enrollment status, whether it's public or private, in-state or out-of-state. 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 eligibility for federal student loans and other aid. Schools may also offer scholarships, grants, or low-interest loans.
Should I enroll in a PhD program in online marketing?
pro tips
An online PhD is more flexible, but requires more organization and focus than an in-person degree.
If you plan to keep your job, can't relocate, or want to find a lower-cost alternative, earning a PhD online is a great option. However, you should consider your learning style, availability, and budget.
learning style
Can you learn in a virtual environment without the presence of classmates or instant feedback from an instructor? Logging into your class from the most convenient location gives you great flexibility while eliminating distractions. You need to do this and keep your classes organized.
If you would benefit from the structure and real-time engagement offered by in-person classes, choose a more traditional degree program. The same goes if you're not tech-savvy.
availability
A PhD program requires a multi-year commitment, and you will need to coordinate your research and dissertation topics with your faculty. Consider whether you have the time to complete your degree requirements.
Also, find out about the program's delivery format. Some programs require you to be physically present, which impacts your travel and time away from your current job. We may also offer classes synchronously. This means you must be present on certain days and times of the week. If you're busy with work or personal life, look for programs that are delivered asynchronously. This means you can review lectures on your own time.
budget
The cost of earning a Ph.D. online can vary widely in marketing. Earning your degree online can save you money on commuting, housing, and food, but you'll still have to cover your own technology and distance learning costs.
Also, private universities are often more expensive than public universities, so determine your budget before choosing a program.
Online Marketing PhD Certification Program
Before spending time and money on an online marketing Ph.D. program, it is essential to check whether the university is institutionally accredited. Accreditation means a university meets rigorous quality and academic standards set by an accrediting body.
Attending an institutionally accredited school allows you to transfer credits to another university and qualify for federal financial aid. The Council on Higher Education Accreditation maintains a searchable list of accredited colleges, universities and programs.
Programs and departments within the university can apply for program accreditation. Certification may be required for admission to graduate school or for professional licensure or certification.
Students in the doctoral degree business school marketing program may apply for accreditation with the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, the Association for the Advancement of Collegiate Business Schools, or the International Accreditation Council for Business Education.
our methodology
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Earning a PhD Online in Marketing
What is a PhD? What about marketing?
A PhD marketing degree is the highest level of education you can earn. Course topics include marketing strategy, data analysis, microeconomics, and consumer behavior research and research.
How much can you earn with a PhD? What about marketing?
Earning a Ph.D. can earn you money. The field of marketing varies depending on where you live and whether you pursue a career in academia or business. For example, marketing managers earn a median annual salary of $140,040, while professors earn $80,840, the BLS reports.
How long does it take to obtain a PhD? What about marketing?
A master's degree in marketing with a Ph.D. degree takes between three and seven years, depending on the program and whether it's full-time or part-time.
Is it worth getting a PhD? In Marketing?
Only you can decide whether you have earned your Ph.D. In the field of marketing, it's worth your time and investment. You can become an expert in the field of marketing with a PhD and increase your salary potential.
