Masters in Social Media Marketing Online

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The online master in social media marketing is offered only by a handful of colleges in the U.S. Therefore, it is essential to find the best college that can provide a robust program that is well recognized and valued. The top universities for masters in social media marketing should boast excellent infrastructure, well-trained, qualified and experienced teaching staff, a wide range of student support services, valid accreditation, career guidance, and more. Based on these and other such crucial factors, here are the best online masters in social media degree program in the country: 

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Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
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The online master’s degree in social media marketing program offers a comprehensive understanding of emerging marketing tools and technology and how to effectively develop marketing and communication strategies using social media. Students in this program study the history, theory, and technology of social media through specific courses on topics ranging from online marketing channels to strategic social marketing communication. They learn how to segment consumer populations based on their social media activities and preferences, establish return-on-investment benchmarks, conduct marketing research, develop social marketing strategies, and communicate effectively across various social media. 

An online master’s in social media degree program usually requires 30 to 40 credits, 33 credits being typical. The curriculum can be customized to the student’s needs and can be completed entirely online, partially online, or in a hybrid format that includes both online and offline classes. Apart from core courses and electives, students are frequently required to complete a capstone project and/or an internship. Below is a list of courses prospective students can expect in a master’s in social media marketing online program:  

• Social Media and Digital Analytics
• Mass Communication Theory
• Social Media Crisis Communication
• User Experience and Audience Research
• Social Media Marketing and Branding
• Social Community Management
• Advertising and Social Media
• Introduction to Social Media
• Trends in Strategic Communication
• Audio and Video Production for Emerging Media
• Digital Media Ethics, Law and Regulation
• Social Media Measurement and Goals
• Strategic Digital Marketing
• Integrated Marketing Communications
• Social Media Marketing Strategy
• Digital Organizational Communication
• Research Methods in Digital Communication
• Visual Design for Emerging Media
• Consumer Behavior and Marketing
• Digital Media and Analytics
• Digital Storytelling
• Digital and Mobile Applications
• Strategic Communication Management
• Media Development and Project Management
• Strategic Digital Campaigns
• Emerging Technologies and Applications
• International Market Strategy
• Effective Social Media Strategies
• Introduction to Multimedia (Video Storytelling)
• Introduction to Mobile and Social Strategy
• Social Media Metrics and Evaluation
• Branding Using Social and Mobile Media
• Introduction to Social Media
• Social and Emerging Media Strategy and Analytics

Types of Masters in Social Media Marketing Degrees

A social media marketing master’s degree can be earned in several ways. While there are two primary types of degrees available – the Master of Arts in Social Media Marketing and the Master of Science in Social Media Marketing, students can also opt for combination programs.

1. Master of Arts in Social Media Marketing
   The Master of Arts in Social Media Marketing (MA Social Media Marketing online) is an interdisciplinary marketing program based on liberal arts and humanities departments. Individuals who wish to pursue a Ph.D. and/or take up teaching roles are better suited for this degree.
2. Master of Science in Social Media Marketing
   The Master of Science in Social Media Marketing (MS Social Media Marketing online) is significantly based on math and science and takes a professional and scientific approach to social media. This degree is better suited to those who wish to enter the job market immediately upon graduating or continue their education with a doctorate in marketing.

Many schools also offer marketing majors or combination degrees with a social media marketing concentration. These alternatives, while similar to a social media marketing master’s, are best suited for students who broaden their focus of study and study an additional subject apart from social media. Some options include, but are not limited to:

• Master of Science in Communications with an Emphasis in Social Media 
• Master of Arts in Strategic Communication with a Concentration in Digital and Social Media 
• Master of Science in Applied Communication with a Concentration in Social Media 
• Master of Arts in Emerging Media 
• Master of Arts in Social and Emerging Media 
• Master of Arts in Digital Marketing 
• Master of Arts in Digital Strategy 
• Master of Business Administration in Marketing (MBAM) 
• Master of Science in Marketing and Advertising (MSMA) 
• Master of Marketing Management (MMM) 
• Master of Science in Sales and Marketing (MSSM) 
• Master of Science in Marketing and Innovation (MSMI) 

Areas of Specialization for Online Masters in Social Media Marketing

Being a branch of marketing, social media marketing is primarily looked upon as a specialization or concentration area within the subject. Consequently, there are no specialization options available for social media marketing aspirants. However, some universities offer graduate programs that either cover social media as a specialization or combine social media management with another major. Some examples of these are:

• Masters in Digital Advertising & Marketing Online
• Masters in Brand Communication in the Digital Era
• Masters in Digital Marketing Online
• Masters in Internet Marketing Online
• Online Masters in Sports Marketing and Media
• Online Masters in New Media and Communications

Students can also consider other degree programs related to marketing and opt for specializations or concentration courses/electives in social media. Some options to choose from include:

• Masters in Advertising & Branding Online
• Masters in Product Management Online
• Masters in Marketing Management Online
• Masters in Business Development & Professional Sales Marketing Online
• Masters in Marketing Analytics Online
• Masters in Marketing and Public Relations
• Masters in Market Research and Consumer Behavior Online
• Masters in Integrated Marketing Communications Online
• Masters in Strategic Marketing Online
• Masters in Political Marketing Online
• Masters in International Marketing Management
• Masters in Marketing and Consumer Psychology Online
• Masters in Marketing Intelligence and Strategy in the 21st Century
• Masters in Marketing and Global Sustainability
• Masters in Digital Strategy
• Masters in Web Design

Why should I do Online Masters in Social Media Marketing?

An online master’s degree in social media marketing can help students improve their communication abilities and give them a leg up on the competition. The degree prepares students for an exciting and fulfilling job in a fast-paced sector by providing them with the formal education they need to enhance their use of social media and effectively lead their company or marketing campaigns. Furthermore, individuals will develop the ability to improve the social media presence of their clients, assist clients in the creation of new content, and create effective internet marketing strategies. Graduates of an online master’s in social media can find work in a wide range of settings, including digital marketing, public relations, content development, marketing analytics, consumer behavior, sales management, sports, communication, branding, etc.  

Students who have embraced technology and have no trouble keeping up with technological advancements are best suited to opt for this degree. Many will find the ability to use social media as a communication and marketing tool exciting and rewarding. 

With increasing demand in the sector and companies scrambling to find professionals who can drive their objectives through social media, there is ample scope for graduates to bag plum jobs with handsome salaries. According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, marketing management employment is expected to expand by 10% from 2020 to 2030. As the field of marketing becomes more online-driven and internet-based, managers with social media and digital marketing skills will find ample room to advance their careers. 

After graduation, students would have mastered a wide range of abilities that businesses look for in a competent marketer. Graduates of an online social media marketing degree will be able to: 

• Create and lead integrated strategies using marketing theory and methods.
• Develop worldwide marketing tactics that address a variety of cultural settings and diverse audiences.
• Examine and connect the institutional, technical, and social elements that influence social media usage.
• Adhere to marketing practices that comply with legal, regulatory, and ethical guidelines.
• Manage a brand at all stages to guarantee that value is created, captured, and delivered.
• Use a variety of media to negotiate with stakeholders.
• Examine the impact of social media on politics, culture, and the economy.
• Develop marketing strategies by analyzing and interpreting data.
• Plan, produce and distribute professional media for a variety of channels, including websites, social media, and the most cutting-edge interactive technology.
• Create captivating media projects, intelligent social media methods, and effective audience engagement.
• Apply social media-related theories, analytical concepts, and approaches.

Digital Marketing vs Social Media Marketing

People confuse digital marketing with social media marketing. While the two have their similarities, they are distinct. In many instances, social media marketing studies will fall under the purview of digital marketing. Here is a quick look at the two terms:

How to get into the Online Masters in Social Media Marketing program?

In most instances, enrolling for an online masters in social media marketing program is straightforward. To begin with, colleges generally require prospective students to hold a bachelor’s degree in marketing or any other discipline. In rare cases, some from backgrounds other than marketing may be required to take a few prerequisite courses. It is worth pointing out that each program and college may have different admission requirements. However, here is a list of general admissions requirements for online masters in social media marketing:

• Application for Admission 
• Application Fee 
• Official Academic Transcripts 
• An Undergraduate Degree in Marketing or Other Discipline 
• Minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.8 on a scale of 4.0 
• Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) Scores (sometimes asked) 
• Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose 
• Personal Essay (sometimes requested) 
• At least 2 Letters of Recommendation 
• Graduate Resume 
• Proof of Proficiency in English (if the native language is not English) 

Note: Students are advised to check with the admissions office of their chosen college for exact and specific admission requirements, as they vary by college and program. 

How long does it take to complete the Online Masters in Social Media Marketing?

The online masters in social media marketing usually requires between 30 and 40 credits (36 credits being typical) to complete the program. In most cases, the degree requires about 1 to 2 years to complete, if done full-time. Part-time students may need approximately 2 to 3 years to finish. Students should note that the coursework load, chosen specialization, capstone project, internship, and mode of delivery (online, offline, or hybrid) will influence the time to graduate from a master’s in social media marketing degree program. 

Accreditation for Online Master’s Degree in Social Media Marketing

Accreditation is a procedure by which an independent outside authority certifies that a school or degree program meets and/or exceeds the preset quality and rigor standards. Although accreditation is optional for colleges, having one provides numerous advantages, the biggest advantage being that it validates a program to employers and other colleges and institutions. Accreditation also ensures that students can easily and readily transfer credits from one recognized institution to another and be eligible to receive federal financial aid. There are six regional accrediting agencies authorized by the U.S Department of Education and/or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) that can accredit a college, which are: 

New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) 

Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) 

Higher Learning Commission (HLC) 

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) 

Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) 

Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) 

To check a school’s accreditation status, students can visit the official U.S Department of Education website or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) website. 

An alternative to regional accreditation is programmatic accreditation. Some agencies do not accredit the college but accredit a program instead. A specialist-accredited social media marketing degree signifies that the school satisfied the subject-specific requirements of the social media marketing industry. Some specialty accreditors include: 

• International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE) 
• Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) 
• Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) 

Students are advised to read the in-depth Guide to Accreditation to understand its importance and why it is essential. 

Many colleges require incoming students to submit Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) scores when applying to a marketing master’s degree online. This is especially a requirement for management degrees (such as the MBA). Depending on the program and school, a social media marketing degree at some schools may not require GMAT or GRE scores as an admissions requirement, the primary condition being that the applying student must have a good Grade Point Average (GPA). Here are a few examples of online masters in social media marketing no GRE and online masters in social media marketing no GMAT: 

1. The University of Florida – Master’s in Social Media Marketing
   The University of Florida offers an entirely online Master’s in Social Media Marketing that does not require students to submit GMAT or GRE scores during admission into the program. 
2. University of Denver – Master’s in Marketing Communication
   The University of Denver offers an online Master of Arts in Communication Management with a concentration in Marketing Communication that does not require a GRE or GMAT score and can be completed in as little as 18 months. Students can opt for elective courses that focus on social media. 
3. Southern New Hampshire University – Master’s in Marketing
   The Southern New Hampshire University has a Master’s in Marketing with a concentration in Social Media Marketing for which GMAT and GRE scores are not required to enroll. 
4. The University of Tampa – Master’s in Social and Emerging Media
   The University of Tampa accepts students without the requirement of GMAT or GRE scores into its Master of Arts in Social and Emerging Media degree program.  

Accelerated master’s degree programs are usually designed to allow students pursuing a bachelor’s degree to receive their master’s degree faster. Fast track or accelerated degrees typically require students to complete a bachelor’s degree, followed by a shorter period (typically one year, instead of the standard two) to complete their master’s. Many universities also provide students with the option to accelerate or fast-track their master’s program through the transfer of credits, additional coursework loads, specializations, program flexibility, etc. 

While most online master’s in social media marketing will require 1 to 2 years to complete, a few universities offer accelerated master’s in social media marketing online that can be completed faster. Here are some examples: 

1. The University of Florida
   The University of Florida offers a 36-credit online Master of Arts in Mass Communication with a concentration in Social Media that full-time students can complete in as few as 16 months. 
2. Fitchburg State University
    Fitchburg State University offers an online Master of Science in Applied Communication, with a concentration in Social Media. Students can complete the program in as few as 5 months or have the flexibility to take up to 6 years to finish. 
3. Liberty University
   Liberty University (LU) has a 33-credit Master’s in Social Media Marketing Degree Online that requires 1 year to complete on average. 

The cost of a master’s degree program is ever increasing. With most graduate programs costing tens of thousands of dollars, students are often left wondering how to fund their education. Fortunately, there are different forms of financial aid available to graduate students. To be eligible for financial aid, applicants must fulfill and meet all criteria listed by the donor or lender. Here are a few types of financial aid prospective students of an online master’s in social media marketing can explore: 

Scholarships 

Scholarships are payments made to students who have demonstrated exceptional academic success or met all the scholarship sponsor’s requirements. Apart from academic excellence, scholarships may be awarded based on socio-economic background, gender, Voluntary work and social engagement, religious affiliation, sporting accomplishments, career path, specific subjects or degrees, financial need, and more. (Read about Scholarship Scams to avoid being scammed online) 

Grants 

Grants are sums of money given to deserving students that do not need to be repaid. They are often given by governments, foundations, trusts, or corporations to individuals who can demonstrate financial need. Like scholarships, grants are ‘free aid’ or a “gift”, meaning they do not need to be paid back, making them one of the most sought-after college funding options. 

Graduate Assistantships 

A Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) is a graduate student enrolled in a university who also teaches undergraduate students at that university. As students, they take courses and pursue their studies in a specialized academic field. They also help professors teach undergraduate courses. In return, graduate teaching assistants are paid a stipend or receive a fee waiver. 

Student Loans 

Students can take out student loans to help pay for college. Financing options include federal loans, bank loans, group and trust loans, and other sources. Unlike scholarships and grants, student loans must be repaid with interest to the lender. While student loans might help with educational expenses, they can also add to the amount of student debt, making repayment more difficult and possibly taking years to clear. 

FAFSA 

The FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is a standardized form that applicants can fill in and submit to assess whether or not they are eligible for financial aid. More FAFSA-related information is available here. 

More information on various funding options is available in the best Financial Guide. 

Marketing scholarships can help students lower the tuition fees of their online master’s degree in social media marketing programs. Getting a scholarship can allow students to concentrate on their studies instead of worrying about how to pay for their education. Listed here are a few scholarships that apply to an online master’s program in social media marketing: 

Inclusion In Digital Marketing Scholarship 

The Inclusion In Digital Marketing Scholarship is awarded each year to an individual pursuing a college degree in the marketing field or areas such as web development or design, communications, UX, PPC, SEO, and marketing-related STEM fields. 

Amount/Award : $3,500 

Deadline:July 30, every year 

Custom Creatives Digital Marketing Scholarship 

The Custom Creatives Digital Marketing Scholarship is awarded to those interested in the digital marketing space to support the next generation of students interested in various aspects of the Digital Marketing industry. 

Amount/Award:$1,000 x 2 Scholarships 

Deadline:May 31, 2021 

Social Media Ambassador Scholarship The Social Media Ambassador Scholarship is awarded for one semester. It may be renewed for additional semesters based on the student’s performance. Costs covered include tuition, fees, textbook rental, dorm rental, and meal plan. 

Amount/Award : Varies 

Deadline : Mid-March, every year 

Marketing EDGE Scholarship The Marketing EDGE Scholarship is awarded based on a combination of academic performance and demonstrated interest in the marketing field. In addition, classes, extracurricular activities, internships, etc., are also considered. 

Amount/Award :$2,000 to $5,000 

Deadline :TBA

While free online courses do not confer a master’s degree, they are often created by some of the best universities in the world and can provide students with additional knowledge and insights outside of the classroom and textbook. They can be of immense help to students with their regular studies, assignments, exams, or capstone projects. Here are a few resources for free courses for masters in social media marketing degree students: 

Graduates of a master’s in social media marketing can create their own consultancies or obtain jobs in commercial and governmental sectors thanks to their knowledge of trends, communication strategies, audience behavior, and analytics. A graduate degree in social media equips students for a variety of careers that entail more than just making social media posts. There are positions available in practically every professional field, whether working for a social media firm or as a social media manager.  

Some examples of job titles include, but are not limited to: 

• Business Development Manager
• Communications Manager
• Marketing Manager or Director
• Digital Marketing Manager
• Online Communication Manager
• Nonprofit Fundraiser
• Social Media Manager or Director
• Social Media Strategist
• Public Relations Director
• Media Planner
• Social Media Manager
• Brand Advocate
• Brand Manager
• Director of Media Relations
• Content Manager
• Engagement Coordinator
• Communications Specialist
• Market Research Analyst
• Marketing Manager
• Digital Media Manager

It is crucial to remember that social media is still a relatively new industry figuring out its place in the larger commercial world. However, social media’s expansion is unprecedented, and its impact is now unavoidable, driving up demand for professionals in this space. Because marketing graduates might work in a range of industries and have a variety of job responsibilities despite having identical job titles, it is difficult to estimate a precise wage; it is also tough to predict career growth. Nonetheless, to give a rough idea, O*NET OnLine states that Marketing Managers earn a median annual pay of $142,170 and that the availability of these occupations is expected to grow between 10% and 15% faster than the overall job market. It is worth noting that seniority, career opportunities, and better compensation are frequently determined by the individual’s years of experience, skill levels, and knowledge. 

Here is a list of a few roles in the marketing sector and the master’s degree in social media marketing salary and job growth, as reported by O*NET OnLine: 

Certifications serve as an official declaration of one’s professional ability and are helpful in a range of professions as a condition of employment or practice. They also, in some instances, lead to licensure for specific jobs. While marketing master’s degree holders can choose from several certifications, those explicitly tailored to social media marketers are hard to come by. Nonetheless, social media graduates can seek general marketing or digital marketing certifications that apply to their qualifications as well. Here are some certifications for master’s degree in social media marketing graduates to explore: 

1. American Marketing Association (AMA)
   The American Marketing Association (AMA) offers graduates of an online master’s in marketing (along with any specialization) or working marketers six certificates to choose from. In addition to a bachelor’s or master’s degree, candidates must have at least four years of professional marketing experience or seven years of professional marketing experience in general for most of these certificates. The following AMA certificates are available: 
2. Professional Certified Marketer (PCM) 
3. Digital Marketing Certification (DMC) 
4. Advanced Digital Marketing Certification (ADMC) 
5. Content Marketing Certification (CMC) 
6. Marketing Management Certification (MMC) 
7. Sales Management Certification (SMC) 
8. OMCP Digital Marketing Certification
   Professionals with proven expertise, rigorous training, and who have demonstrated mastery of digital marketing best practices across various digital marketing disciplines are awarded the Online Marketing Certified Professionals (OMCP) digital marketing credential. Over 900 colleges and training institutes throughout the world teach OMCP standards. Thousands of leading companies favor professionals with these credentials. 
9. Hootsuite Social Marketing Professional
   The Hootsuite Social Marketing Professional certification is an industry-recognized certification that demonstrates expertise with the essential elements of social marketing to clients and employers. The certification tests and certifies one’s knowledge of the core principles of social media marketing. 
10. SMEI Certified Marketing Executive (CME)
    The Sales & Marketing Executives International, Inc. (SMEI) offers the SMEI Certified Marketing Executive (CME) designation, which demonstrates knowledge of marketing theories, ideas, and practices as they apply to the management of the marketing function in a complex organization. SMEI also provides a Social Media Marketing Certificate. 

As for licensing requirements, marketers are generally exempt from licensure to work, but some occupations, such as those involving insurance or securities sales, may require it. 

Social media marketing is a vast and ever-changing field that is constantly evolving. Platforms are continuously updated, which means that best practices might change instantly. However, it is possible to keep up with the industry by tapping into various resources such as blogs, newsletters, and podcasts. These resources and other social media marketing tools show how to use social media for lead generation, establish a following, and drive-up brand presence and interest. Here are some resources that may be of help to social media marketing online students and graduates: 

1. Social Media Today
   Social Media Today is Industry Dive’s publication that provides original analysis on what is going on in the world of social media. They provide articles, webinars, and full-fledged marketing playbooks, among others. They also send out a daily email newsletter with the day’s best headlines for those interested. 
2. Buffer’s Social Media Marketing Resource Kit
   Buffer, a company that offers products to help customers build their brands and grow their businesses on social media, has a free to download Social Media Marketing Resource Kit that includes a guide to choosing the right social network, how to come up with a voice and tone for social media marketing, a checklist of the way to create an excellent bio, a spreadsheet for tracking and auditing your social media growth, and much more. 
3. ThinkWithGoogle
   ThinkWithGoogle brings together new perspectives on industry trends and consumer behavior from the Google marketing team as well as other top marketers from around the world. Their study is based on search patterns and broadened to include actionable insights, allowing marketers to apply the data to their business in a way that makes sense.  
4. Google Analytics Academy
   Google Analytics Academy assists social media professionals in developing their data abilities with interactive classes presented in a staged Google Analytics environment. Analytics Academy teaches how to use Google’s measurement tools to expand one’s business by collecting and analyzing data intelligently.  
5. Social Media Association (SMA)
   The Social Media Association (SMA) brings together the media community both online and offline for those interested in business and media innovation. SMA holds informative meetings and networking events and provides insights on social media strategy, engagement marketing, social media best practices, community management, marketing, branding, design, technology, communications, and PR.