How to become a marketing manager | edX

How to become a marketing managerAre you thinking of a career as a marketing manager? Managers have a challenging and rewarding role. They're vital to the success of organizations and use their unique skills to build brands and drive business growth. Read on to learn more about what a marketing manager does and discover some steps that might help you in your journey to becoming one.Browse online marketing management programs and coursesWhat does a marketing manager do?Marketing managers have strong leadership, strategy, and critical thinking skills. These professionals help plan and coordinate marketing strategies to maximize profits and market share. They often collaborate across departments and manage other marketing staff.Steps to become a marketing managerStep 1: Earn a bachelor's degree in marketingA bachelor's degree in marketing is the usual first step for those planning a career as a marketing manager. Marketing programs typically offer a wide variety of subjects and electives that give marketing managers a good foundation in general business knowledge and also more specific marketing knowledge.Step 2: Get experience in marketingOnce you've earned your degree, it's time to gain industry experience. An internship can be a great place to start and can open doors to marketing jobs.Step 3: Consider a marketing master's degree or MBAMarketing managers often interact with and make decisions at the highest levels in a company. Some companies might prefer their marketing managers to have a master's degree in marketing or even an MBA with a concentration in marketing. There are also many online courses you choose from that allow you to keep working on your marketing career while you study further,Step 4: Put in the hoursOnce you have your degree(s), you'll need to put in the hours — and the years — as you climb the marketing ladder. Speaking to more senior colleagues or finding a mentor may help you on this path. They might be able to provide guidance about specific ways to build your résumé, or even help you identify skills that could help you rise to the role of marketing manager.Get started on edXReady to get going on your journey to marketing manager? Start by exploring some online edX marketing courses that you can add to your résumé. These extra skills might help you stand out as you build your marketing career.Stand out in your fieldUse the knowledge and skills you have gained to drive impact at work and grow your career.Learn at your own paceOn your computer, tablet or phone, online courses make learning flexible to fit your busy life.Earn a valuable credentialShowcase your key skills and valuable knowledge.Explore all online marketing programs and coursesFrequently asked questionsWhat do you need to become a marketing manager?Marketing managers usually need a bachelor's degree in marketing and at least a few years of experience. Some employers may prefer candidates with a master's degree.How much does a marketing manager make a year?According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics data from May 2023, marketing managers made a median salary of $157,620 per year.How long does it take to become a marketing manager?How long it takes to become a marketing manager can vary depending on where you work and how quickly you advance to leadership roles. Marketing managers can expect to spend at least 4 years on a bachelor's degree in marketing and at least another 2-3 years gaining industry experience in marketing.