A digital marketing degree can definitely be worth it if you’re looking to break into the marketing industry. Undertaking a digital marketing degree can help you develop the skills you need to break in to or progress in the industry and help to set you apart from the competition.

The world of marketing has seen significant changes in the past decade, with digital marketing being at the forefront of the shift.

More and more businesses are opting for digital marketing over traditional marketing, creating immense demand for professionals with digital marketing knowledge and skills.

As a result, many students are considering enrolling in a digital marketing degree program to kick-start their careers in this field.

This article explores the pros and cons of undertaking a digital marketing qualification and the alternative options available to learners, in order to help you determine whether a digital marketing degree is the right option for you.

Understanding the Digital Marketing Degree

Before delving into whether or not a digital marketing degree is worth it, let’s first understand what a digital marketing degree encompasses.

A digital marketing degree is an undergraduate or graduate-level program that equips students with the knowledge and skills required to develop and implement digital marketing strategies for businesses and organisations.

What is a Digital Marketing Degree?

A digital marketing degree covers various topics such as search engine optimisation (SEO), social media marketing, email marketing, content marketing, advertising, analytics, and more.

The curriculum focuses on developing skills in communication, creativity, and data analysis along with providing students with hands-on experience in implementing digital marketing campaigns.

For instance, in a digital marketing degree program, students learn how to conduct keyword research, optimise website content, and create engaging social media content that resonates with the target audience.

They also learn how to analyse website traffic, measure the effectiveness of marketing campaigns, and use data to make informed decisions.

What are the Core Modules and Skills Acquired on a Digital Marketing Degree?

Core courses in a digital marketing degree program include marketing fundamentals, digital communication, consumer behavior, brand management, website design, web analytics, and more.

These courses are designed to provide students with a solid foundation in marketing principles and digital technologies.

For example, in a marketing fundamentals course, students learn about the four Ps of marketing (product, price, place, and promotion) and how they apply to digital marketing.

In a web analytics course, students learn how to use tools like Google Analytics to track website traffic, measure engagement, and identify areas for improvement.

Through these courses, students acquire a range of skills that are highly valued in the digital marketing industry. These skills include critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, communication, and data analysis.

What are the Different Types of Digital Marketing Degrees?

There are various types of digital marketing degrees available, including Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Associate’s degrees. Some programs are offered online, while others are offered on-campus. The type of degree you choose will depend on your career goals, budget, and schedule.

Overall, a digital marketing degree can provide students with the knowledge and skills required to succeed in the fast-paced and ever-evolving digital marketing industry.

By learning how to develop and implement effective digital marketing strategies, students can help businesses and organisations reach their target audience and achieve their goals.

Analysing the Job Market for Digital Marketing Graduates

Digital marketing is a rapidly growing industry with a high demand for skilled professionals. However, it is essential to analyse the job market for digital marketing graduates before deciding whether or not a digital marketing degree is worth it.

Current Demand for Digital Marketing Professionals

The demand for digital marketing professionals continues to rise as more businesses are shifting their operations online. With the change in working style since the COVID-19 pandemic, more companies have realised the importance of digital marketing.

This has led to a surge in demand for digital marketing professionals who can help businesses establish a strong online presence. This makes digital marketing a lucrative career option for those with the right skills and qualifications.

Job Titles and Career Paths in Digital Marketing

Digital marketing offers a wide range of job titles, including social media manager, digital marketing specialist, SEO specialist, content marketing manager, email marketing specialist, and more. Each of these job titles requires a unique set of skills and qualifications.

For instance, a social media manager must have excellent communication skills and be able to create engaging social media content.

On the other hand, an SEO specialist must be knowledgeable about search engine algorithms and be able to optimise websites for search engines.

Furthermore, a digital marketing degree can lead to diverse career paths in marketing, advertising, e-commerce, and communications. This means that digital marketing graduates have a range of options to choose from when it comes to their career path.

Salary Expectations for Digital Marketing Graduates

It is important to note that salaries may vary greatly depending on the company and the location. For instance, digital marketing professionals in a big city like London may earn higher salaries compared to those in other parts of the country.

Additionally, experience plays a crucial role in determining the salary of a digital marketing professional. Those with more experience and skills are likely to earn higher salaries compared to those who are just starting out in their careers.

In conclusion, the job market for digital marketing graduates is promising, with a high demand for skilled professionals. Digital marketing offers a wide range of job titles and career paths, making it a versatile and exciting field to work in.

While salaries may vary depending on location, industry, and experience, digital marketing professionals can earn a lucrative salary and enjoy a fulfilling career.

Comparing Digital Marketing Degrees to Alternative Education Options

If you’re still unsure whether a digital marketing degree is worth it, it’s worth comparing digital marketing degrees to alternative education options.

While a digital marketing degree can provide a comprehensive education and valuable networking opportunities, there are other ways to gain digital marketing knowledge and skills.

Certificates and Diplomas

One of the best alternatives for Digital Marketing training which most learners opt for instead if they decide against a traditional degree are Certificates and diplomas.

Unlike degrees, digital marketing diplomas and certificates focus more on practical side of learning, giving both the theoretical and practical knowledge needed for a career in digital marketing rather than being predominantly academic.

They are usually shorter than a degree with diplomas usually lasting a maximum of two years depending on academic level and the specific course and certificates sometimes taking as little as three months.

MMC Learning offers the level 4 certificates and level 6 diploma in digital marketing from the Chartered Institute of Marketing, one of the foremost awarding bodies of digital marketing qualifications.

The CIM have been the leading institution for marketing education for over 100 years having been established in 1911 and are globally recognised by employers making these courses a great option if you’re looking to stand out from the crowd.

MMC Learning also delivers specialist certifications in digital strategy, search marketing and social media marketing from the Digital Marketing Institute.

These specialist qualifications are shorter in length, (DMI courses can be completed in as little as 8-10 weeks) and allow learners to hone their skills in a certain area of digital marketing.

This enables them to specialise in that area which can help to put them ahead of the competition in terms of employment as they are an expert in their specific field.

Self-Learning and Online Courses

Self-learning and online resources can be a cost-effective and flexible option for those looking to gain digital marketing knowledge and skills.

With the abundance of online resources available, it’s possible to learn the basics of digital marketing through research and sampling related podcasts and videos.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that self-learning may lack the practical experience and networking opportunities provided by a digital marketing degree program. Additionally, online research may not provide the same level of interaction with instructors and peers as a traditional classroom setting.

One way to supplement self-learning is to participate in online communities and forums dedicated to digital marketing. These communities can provide valuable insights and networking opportunities that can help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in the industry.

Short courses and Workshops

Short courses and workshops are intensive training programs that provide hands-on experience in specific areas of digital marketing. They can be less expensive than a full degree program and offer the opportunity to gain practical skills in a short amount of time.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that they may lack the breadth of knowledge provided by a digital marketing degree.

There are several short course options that can help improve your digital marketing knowledge and skillset. For example, Google, Linkedin Learning and HubSpot courses are highly regarded in the industry and demonstrate proficiency in specific digital marketing skills.

One benefit of shortcourses and workshops is that they often have a specific focus, such as social media marketing or search engine optimisation. This can be useful for those who already have a basic understanding of digital marketing and are looking to specialise in a particular area.

MMC offers both their own short courses and several CIM accredited short courses which can benefit learners by helping them brush up on important areas of digital marketing knowledge in a short space of time, including:

• CIM Specialist Award in AI Marketing
• CIM Specialist Award in Content Strategy
• CIM Specialist Award in Ecommerce
• CIM Specialist Award in SEO and Paid Search Management
• CIM Specialist Award in Social Media Management
• ChatGPT + AI content generation for Marketing
• ChatGPT + AI for Freelance Marketers & Consultants
• ChatGPT + AI for Business + Entrepreneurs
• AI Image Generation – Midjourney
• AI for Video and Audio Content Creation

Internships and On-the-Job Training

Internships and on-the-job training can provide valuable hands-on experience and networking opportunities. By working with experienced professionals in the field, you can gain practical skills and insights that may not be available through other forms of education.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that internships and on-the-job training may not provide the comprehensive knowledge and skills required for a career in digital marketing.

One way to maximise the benefits of internships and on-the-job training is to seek out opportunities with companies that have a strong digital marketing presence. This can provide exposure to a wide range of digital marketing strategies and techniques, as well as the opportunity to work with a team of experienced professionals.

In conclusion, while a digital marketing degree can provide a comprehensive education and valuable networking opportunities, there are other ways to gain digital marketing knowledge and skills.

Self-learning can be a cost-effective and flexible option, while shortcourses and workshops offer intensive training in specific areas.

Certificates and Diplomas offer a great option for more hands on high-level training which is equivalent to a degree but without the academic focus.

Internships and on-the-job training provide valuable hands-on experience, but may not provide the comprehensive knowledge and skills required for a career in digital marketing. Ultimately, the best option for you will depend on your individual goals and circumstances.

Evaluating the Return on Investment (ROI) of a Digital Marketing Degree

A digital marketing degree can be a significant investment in terms of time and money. However, the benefits of obtaining a degree in this field can be substantial in terms of career growth and earning potential. Let’s take a closer look at how to evaluate the return on investment of a digital marketing degree.

Tuition Costs and Financial Aid

When considering the cost of a digital marketing degree, it’s important to factor in tuition costs as well as any additional expenses such as textbooks and materials.

The cost of a digital marketing degree can vary greatly depending on the institution, location, and degree level. However, there are many financial aid options available to help alleviate the cost of tuition. Scholarships, grants, and loans can all be helpful in making a degree more affordable.

It’s important to research and apply for any financial aid opportunities that may be available. Many institutions offer scholarships specifically for digital marketing students, so be sure to check with the financial aid office to see what options are available.

Time Commitment and Opportunity Cost

Obtaining a digital marketing degree can take several years, which means dedicating time and energy to the program.

It’s important to consider the time commitment required and how it will fit into your current schedule.

Will you be able to balance work and school? Will you need to take time off from work to complete the program?

Additionally, it’s worth considering the opportunity cost of pursuing a degree instead of gaining work experience. While a degree can be valuable, gaining work experience in the field can also be beneficial. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each option and determine which path is best for your career goals.

Long-Term Career Growth and Earning Potential

A digital marketing degree can lead to various career paths with strong earning potential.