Fastest Online Social Media Marketing Degree Programs for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Most people think social media marketing is as easy as posting content online, but in reality, it demands in-depth strategy, analytics skills, and up-to-date marketing knowledge. Pursuing an online social media marketing degree—especially at the graduate level—provides professionals with the foundational skills and tools to navigate a $1.5 trillion industry projected to keep expanding.

For those aiming for leadership roles, median salaries are promising: $126,960 for advertising and promotions managers and $161,030 for marketing managers as of May 2024. This article—prepared by a team of career planning experts—explores what to expect from these programs, where they can lead you, and how much you can earn, helping you make an informed decision about your education and career path.

What are the benefits of getting an online social media marketing degree?

Qualify for in-demand roles like social media manager, digital strategist, and marketing analyst across industries.
Earn a competitive salary—the average social media marketing professional makes between $52,000 and $68,000, with leadership roles earning six figures.
Gain flexible, career-focused education through online programs that let you build skills while working or managing other responsibilities.

What can I expect from an online social media marketing degree?

An online social media marketing degree teaches you how to plan, create, and manage digital campaigns using the latest tools. The core curriculum usually includes courses in analytics, branding, digital strategy, and SEO. Many programs culminate in a capstone project or require hands-on internship hours to apply your skills in real-world settings.

Tuition varies widely—some master’s programs cost around $15,000–$35,000 total. Online courses are typically delivered asynchronously, letting students access materials and submit assignments on their own schedules. Expect a mix of video lectures, interactive projects, and collaboration tools to connect with instructors and peers.

Where can I work with an online social media marketing degree?

A social media marketing degree opens doors to a wide range of industries that rely on digital engagement. Graduates can find work in corporate marketing departments, advertising agencies, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, or as consultants and freelancers. Many also work in media, technology, retail, education, and entertainment—anywhere brand visibility and audience engagement are essential.

Common roles include social media manager, strategist, digital marketer, and analyst. With an online social media marketing degree, professionals can also move into leadership or specialized positions that involve content direction, campaign strategy, or performance analytics. As of 2024, marketing-related roles are projected to grow 8% through 2033—faster than the average for all jobs—making this field a stable and expanding option.

How much can I make with an online social media marketing degree?

Salary potential in this field is strong and continues to rise with experience. Entry-level social media managers earn about $50,000, while mid-level professionals average $55,729. Those with senior-level experience can earn upwards of $126,777 annually. Roles like social media strategist and digital marketer offer average base salaries of $63,883 and $68,850, respectively, as of December 2024.

Industry, education level, and job title all impact earnings. Top-paying companies like Google, Meta, and Accenture often offer higher compensation and additional benefits. An online social media marketing degree can also lead to roles as advertising or marketing managers, with median salaries of $126,960 and $161,030 in May 2024. The degree not only boosts earning potential but also offers long-term career stability in a rapidly growing sector.

List of the Best Online Social Media Marketing Degree Programs for 2025
How long does it take to complete an online social media marketing degree program?
How does an online social media marketing degree program compare to an on-campus program?
What is the average cost of an online social media marketing degree program?
What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online social media marketing degree program?
What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online social media marketing degree program?
What courses are typically in an online social media marketing degree program?
What types of specializations are available in an online social media marketing degree program?
How to Choose the Best Online Social Media Marketing Degree Program
What career paths are available for graduates of an online social media marketing degree program?
What is the job market for graduates with an online social media marketing degree program?
Should I Enhance My Social Media Marketing Degree with an MBA?
How Do Industry Partnerships and Certifications Enhance Career Prospects?
Other Things You Should Know About Online Social Media Marketing Degree Programs

List of the Online Master's Degree in Human Resources Management Programs for 2025

How do we rank the programs?

Choosing the right degree program is a major investment, so our rankings are designed to help students make informed and confident decisions. To evaluate the best online master’s degree in social media marketing programs, we rely on trusted data from the IPEDS database, Peterson's database, the College Scorecard database, and the National Center for Education Statistics.

These sources offer reliable insight into program quality, affordability, and outcomes. For more details on how we rank programs, please visit Research.com's methodology page.

1. Arizona State University

Ideal for communication professionals and marketing specialists, the fully-online MS in Digital Audience Strategy program from Arizona State University focuses on growing and engaging digital audiences using data-driven strategies. With flexible start dates and an asynchronous format, students can study around their schedules while gaining advanced skills in audience research, content marketing, and digital analytics.

Program length: 30 credits
Cost per credit: $565
Total credits: 30
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

2. Pennsylvania State University

Penn State’s online MS in Marketing Analytics and Insights is geared toward professionals seeking to master data analysis for strategic marketing decisions. Delivered 100% online, the curriculum emphasizes consumer behavior, predictive modeling, and data visualization to help marketers optimize campaign performance across platforms.

Program length: 30 credits
Cost per credit: $1,067
Total credits: 30
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

3. University of Florida

Designed for working professionals, this online Ma in Mass Communication, Digital Strategy at UF blends storytelling with marketing analytics. The curriculum covers brand development, digital content creation, and SEO. Students also complete hands-on digital strategy projects that mimic real-world campaigns, preparing them for leadership in digital media.

Program length: 36 credits
Cost per credit: $449
Total credits: 36
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

4. University of Maryland

This flexible online MS in Management: Marketing Specialization from the University of Maryland focuses on marketing leadership and strategic management. Students explore branding, market research, and consumer analytics. The program offers rolling admissions and is well-suited for mid-career professionals seeking to transition into marketing leadership roles.

Program length: 36 credits
Cost per credit: $524 (in-state); $659 (out-of-state); $480 (military)
Total credits: 36
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

5. Rutgers University

The MS in Digital Marketing program at Rutgers targets marketers aiming to deepen their digital expertise. Offered fully online, it covers e-commerce, digital advertising, SEO/SEM, and customer journey analytics. With set application deadlines and a high-quality AACSB-accredited business school, Rutgers provides a rigorous yet accessible learning path for digital marketing professionals.

Program length: 30 credits
Cost per credit: Varies by term; estimated at $1,200+
Total credits: 30
Accreditation: AACSB International

6. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University’s fully online master’s in digital marketing is designed for both career changers and seasoned professionals. With self-paced classes and optional concentrations like new media and social media marketing, the program teaches strategies for brand management and online engagement. No GRE or GMAT is required, and students from any academic background are welcome.

Program length: 36 credits
Cost per credit: $627
Total credits: 36
Accreditation: ACBSP

7. Fairleigh Dickinson University – Metropolitan Campus

Fairleigh Dickinson University offers a flexible, 100% online master’s in digital marketing with coursework in web analytics, consumer behavior, and social media strategy. Students can also earn professional certifications in tools like Hootsuite and Google Analytics as part of the curriculum. This program is ideal for career professionals looking to enhance their digital skill set without standardized test scores.

Program length: 30 credits
Cost per credit: $925
Total credits: 30
Accreditation: AACSB

8. Northern Illinois University

Northern Illinois University delivers its AACSB-accredited master’s in digital marketing fully online, catering to professionals aiming to balance work and graduate study. The program combines foundational business training with advanced marketing topics like email campaigns, customer data analysis, and visualization. Applicants with lower undergraduate GPAs can submit GMAT scores for added consideration.

Program length: 30 credits
Cost per credit: $897
Total credits: 30
Accreditation: AACSB

9. Drexel University

The M.S. in Strategic and Digital Communication at Drexel University equips students with a blend of traditional media and modern digital strategies. This customizable program is offered online and emphasizes content delivery, branding, and social media engagement. Designed for working professionals, it features asynchronous classes and flexible learning options.

Program length: Varies (typically 45 quarter credits)
Cost per credit: $820 (quarter credit)
Total credits: Approx. 30 semester credits
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

10. University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign

The University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign offers a fully online Master of Science in Strategic Brand Communication, ideal for marketing professionals focused on integrated digital strategies. The program emphasizes brand development, social media analytics, and campaign management, and includes a real-world capstone project to apply learned skills.

Program length: 32 credits
Cost per credit: $650
Total credits: 32
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

How long does it take to complete an online social media marketing degree program?

An online social media marketing degree program can take anywhere from a few months to four years, depending on the level of study and your enrollment status.

Typical Timeframes

Bachelor’s Degree: Most students complete a bachelor's in marketing, communications, or digital media in 3 to 4 years with full-time study.
Master’s Degree: A graduate program usually takes 1 to 2 years. Many students pursue an MBA or M.S. with a social media or digital marketing focus.
Online Programs: Online master’s degrees often offer flexible pacing, with some accelerated tracks completed in as little as 10 to 12 months.
Certificate Programs: Non-degree programs or graduate certificates in social media marketing may be finished in just a few weeks to several months.

For those who want to build marketable skills in record time, the shortest online social media programs can provide targeted, career-ready training in weeks rather than years. These programs are ideal for busy professionals seeking to enhance their digital marketing expertise without committing to a full degree.

Factors That Affect Program Length

Full-time vs. Part-time: Full-time learners graduate faster, while part-time formats allow students to balance work and study.
Accelerated Formats: Some schools offer condensed programs with shorter terms.
Program Structure: Credit requirements, capstone projects, or internships can also affect duration.
Prerequisites: Additional coursework may be needed for students without a marketing background.

How does an online social media marketing degree program compare to an on-campus program?

An online social media marketing degree offers flexibility and accessibility that on-campus programs often can’t match, making it ideal for working professionals or students with personal commitments. Online programs are gaining popularity—96% of students in Best College’s 2023 survey said their online education had or will have a positive return on investment.

Advantages of Online Learning

Flexibility to balance education with work or family responsibilities
Self-paced, on-demand access to course materials
No relocation required; accessible from anywhere
Updated curriculum that reflects real-time changes in marketing tools and trends
Lower cost overall, with no commuting or campus housing fees
Tech skills development, including use of collaboration tools and AI-driven platforms
Personalized experiences using adaptive learning technologies

Online programs are especially helpful for those exploring careers like what does a content marketing specialist do, where constant digital adaptation is key.

In fact, some students pair their marketing degree with certifications from accelerated ISC2 CGRC training bootcamps online to expand into governance, risk, and compliance roles. This combination of marketing expertise and cybersecurity governance skills can make graduates uniquely valuable in industries where protecting customer data and ensuring compliance are as important as building brand presence.

Disadvantages of Online Learning

Limited face-to-face interaction
Fewer in-person networking opportunities
Need for strong self-discipline
Occasional tech issues or limited access to campus resources
Some employers may prefer traditional degrees (though that’s changing fast)

While on-campus learning still appeals to those wanting structure and community, the online social media marketing degree is rapidly proving itself to be just as rigorous and career-boosting.

What is the average cost of an online social media marketing degree program?

The average cost of an online social media marketing degree program varies based on format, institution type, and program length. In general, online options are more affordable than traditional in-person programs.

Estimated Program Costs

Online Programs: Around $10,995 per year; some full programs cost between $18,342 and $30,000
In-Person Programs: Average $21,974 annually, with some top programs reaching $62,550
Overall Average (U.S. Master’s Degrees): About $36,760 per year
MBA Programs with a Social Media Focus: Average around $60,410

Online programs reduce costs by eliminating travel, relocation, and campus housing expenses. Many students also explore guides like how to become a digital marketing specialist to weigh cost vs. value for their target career paths. Choosing an online social media marketing degree helps students stay budget-conscious while still earning respected credentials and advancing toward leadership roles.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online social media marketing degree program?

Students pursuing an online social media marketing degree have a variety of financial aid options available to offset the cost of tuition and materials. These can come from federal, state, institutional, and private sources. The same applies to students in specialized graduate programs—such as the shortest online taxation management programs—who also benefit from financial aid opportunities tailored to working professionals.

Common Types of Financial Aid

Federal Aid: Graduate students may be eligible for Direct Unsubsidized Loans and Grad PLUS Loans through FAFSA
Grants: Some universities and organizations offer need-based grants for online students
Graduate Assistantships: Though more common on campus, some programs offer remote assistant roles
Employer Tuition Assistance: Many companies now offer tuition reimbursement for degrees in digital marketing or communications
Scholarships: Both merit- and need-based marketing scholarships are available from universities and professional associations
Payment Plans: Many schools offer monthly payment plans to reduce upfront costs

Whether you're a full-time student or studying part-time while working, aid options can help make an online social media marketing degree far more affordable and accessible.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online social media marketing degree program?

To apply for an online master’s in social media marketing, students typically need a bachelor’s degree in marketing or a related field. However, many programs also welcome applicants from diverse academic backgrounds if they show potential and interest in the field. Similar to the shortest master's program in supply chain management, these programs are often designed to be flexible and accessible, allowing qualified candidates to fast-track their career advancement in a specialized area of business.

General Admissions Requirements

Online application form
Résumé detailing academic and professional experience
Letter of intent or personal statement outlining career goals and program interest
Official undergraduate transcripts showing a minimum 3.0 GPA in major coursework
Optional letters of recommendation if GPA is below 3.0 (typically 3 letters)
Graduate transcripts if applicable (for applicants with previous grad-level coursework)

These requirements help programs evaluate whether candidates are prepared for the advanced coursework and digital marketing strategies taught in a modern online social media marketing degree program.

What courses are typically in an online social media marketing degree program?

An online social media marketing degree typically includes a mix of core business or communication courses, specialized social media coursework, and electives tailored to students' professional interests. These programs are structured to provide a well-rounded foundation while allowing deeper exploration into the technical and strategic elements of digital marketing.

Common Core Courses

Marketing Analytics – Learn how to interpret data to drive marketing decisions.
Consumer Behavior – Understand how target audiences think and act.
Integrated Marketing Communications – Coordinate messaging across platforms for consistency.
Social Media Strategy – Build and deploy multi-platform campaigns with measurable results.
Digital Media Law & Ethics – Navigate privacy, copyright, and platform policies.

Specialized and Elective Courses

Social Media Metrics and Analytics – Use data tools to analyze engagement and ROI.
Effective Social Media – Evaluate how platforms serve different marketing goals.
Mobile and Emerging Technologies – Explore evolving channels like apps and mobile-first content.
Digital Media Management – Oversee content production, team workflows, and budgets.
Multimedia Storytelling – Create engaging narratives using images, text, and video.

If you're comparing options like an online social media marketing degree versus an accelerated entrepreneurship master's degree online, understanding each program’s focus—whether on creative strategy or business innovation—can help you choose the path that best aligns with your professional goals.

This wide-ranging curriculum is also especially useful when considering broader career pathways—such as comparing MBA vs MS accounting—to determine which aligns best with your marketing goals.

What types of specializations are available in an online social media marketing degree program?

Students pursuing an online social media marketing degree often have the option to focus on a niche within the broader field of marketing. Specializations allow students to tailor their studies to match their career goals, deepen expertise, and stand out in a competitive job market. These focused tracks are also popular among professionals pursuing an accelerated online MBA in marketing, as they offer fast-paced, career-relevant training in high-demand areas.

Common Specializations

Digital Marketing – Focus on SEO, online advertising, content creation, and user engagement strategies.
Luxury Marketing – Explore branding, market positioning, and promotion in high-end sectors like fashion and cosmetics.
International Marketing – Study global market dynamics, international consumer behavior, and cross-border campaign management.
Content Marketing – Learn how to plan and produce valuable, audience-specific content across various channels.
Advertising or Brand Management – Emphasize storytelling, brand development, and campaign leadership.

Specialized programs offer more in-depth skills and are often preferred over generalist degrees. If you're debating between broad business degrees, comparing options like masters in organizational leadership vs MBA can help determine which path provides the focus you need.

How to Choose the Best Online Social Media Marketing Degree Program

Choosing the right online social media marketing degree depends on your career objectives, learning preferences, and professional background. With so many programs available, it's important to compare them based on curriculum, flexibility, and outcomes.

Factors to Consider

Program Focus – Business schools may offer MBA tracks with social media components, while communication schools emphasize theory, messaging, and research.
Delivery Format – Look for programs that are 100% online, asynchronous, or offer accelerated options if you need flexibility.
Faculty and Reputation – Check whether instructors have professional experience in digital marketing or communications.
Career Support – Explore schools with internship, mentorship, or job placement assistance.
Capstone/Practicum – Many quality programs end with a final project that allows you to apply skills in real-world settings.

Another useful reference point is understanding what is the average age to get an MBA, as age and career stage often influence whether a master's program in business, communications, or digital strategy is the right fit.

What career paths are available for graduates of an online social media marketing degree program?

Graduates of an online social media marketing degree can pursue a wide range of career opportunities across industries. Whether working in-house, at an agency, or as freelancers, these professionals are in demand for their ability to build digital presence, manage campaigns, and drive customer engagement.

Common Career Options

Social Media Manager – Plan, create, and manage posts, often across multiple platforms.
Digital Marketing Strategist – Design and oversee integrated marketing campaigns.
Content Marketing Specialist – Develop engaging articles, videos, and other content to build brand awareness.
SEO/SEM Analyst – Optimize content and paid campaigns to boost search engine visibility.
Community Manager – Foster online communities and manage brand interactions.
Brand Manager – Shape how consumers perceive a company or product across all channels.

There are also growing roles tied to analytics, UX, and influencer marketing—many of which are evolving in response to the financial impact of young users on social platforms, who are reshaping how and where companies engage.

For graduates interested in expanding into the user experience or UX side of digital marketing, shortest online user experience programs offer a quick, focused way to build design and usability skills that can complement a social media marketing background. This combination can be particularly valuable for roles where user engagement and seamless digital experiences directly influence campaign success.

What is the job market for graduates with an online social media marketing degree program?

The job market for those with an online social media marketing degree is strong and projected to grow rapidly in the coming years. With social media now central to brand visibility, customer engagement, and e-commerce, organizations are investing heavily in digital talent.

Employment Growth: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in advertising, promotions, and marketing management are expected to grow by 8% from 2022 to 2032—faster than average.
Rising Demand: Sprout Social reports that over 5.17 billion people now use social media worldwide, increasing the need for skilled marketers who can craft and manage campaigns.
Average Salary: Glassdoor lists the average base salary for U.S. social media marketers at $64,134, though this can be much higher for leadership roles.

Professionals with an online social media marketing degree are not only able to fill current demand—they’re also prepared for new roles that will emerge as platforms, tools, and user behavior continue to evolve. Interestingly, some marketing specialists choose to broaden their expertise into related tech fields, such as IT support or cybersecurity, through the fastest online CompTIA A+ training bootcamps. These programs offer a rapid way to gain foundational IT skills, opening up opportunities to manage both digital marketing platforms and the technical systems that support them.

Here’s What People Have to Say about Their Online Social Media Marketing Degrees

Earning my online social media marketing degree was a game-changer. I transitioned from basic content creation to leading digital campaigns for a global brand within a year of graduation. The flexibility of online learning made it possible while working full-time. — Janelle

After completing my degree, I landed a role as a social media strategist in less than three months. The advanced training in analytics and campaign management gave me the edge I needed in a very competitive job market. — Carlos

The degree helped me build confidence and creativity in ways I didn’t expect. I now understand both the technical and psychological sides of audience engagement, and my freelance income has doubled since graduating. — Melissa

Should I Enhance My Social Media Marketing Degree with an MBA?

For professionals seeking to broaden managerial skills and strategic business insight, supplementing a social media marketing degree with an MBA can be highly advantageous. Integrating core business disciplines with digital marketing expertise prepares graduates for leadership roles that require both creative strategy and rigorous financial and operational decision-making. This dual approach helps professionals navigate complex market dynamics, lead cross-functional teams, and manage comprehensive campaigns effectively. Affordable options, such as the cheapest MBA, offer a practical pathway to gain these complementary skills without compromising flexibility and accessibility.

How Do Industry Partnerships and Certifications Enhance Career Prospects?

Accredited online social media marketing programs increasingly integrate industry partnerships that offer students practical projects, internships, and targeted certifications. These initiatives enable learners to apply theoretical concepts in real-world settings, bolstering their professional profiles through hands-on experience and strategic networking. Moreover, some programs provide exposure to complementary disciplines—such as the fastest sports management online bachelor's degree—which can diversify expertise and further enhance career competitiveness.

Key Findings

Social media marketing master’s programs typically take 1–2 years to complete, with accelerated options available in under 12 months.
Online programs are flexible, often more affordable, and increasingly seen as equal in value to on-campus degrees by employers.
Tuition for an online social media marketing degree ranges from $18,342 to $62,550, depending on the school and program format.
The average salary for social media marketers is $64,134, with significant growth expected in marketing-related fields by 2033.
Programs typically include courses in analytics, digital strategy, multimedia content creation, and social media law and ethics.

Other Things You Should Know about Online Social Media Marketing Degree

Is an online social media marketing degree worth it?

Yes—an online social media marketing degree can be worth it for many students and professionals. It equips you with specialized skills in digital strategy, analytics, and content creation that are highly valued by employers. With rising demand for experts in online engagement and brand promotion, graduates often see a strong return on investment in the form of improved job opportunities and higher earning potential.

Can I study online social media marketing without a marketing background?

Yes, many online social media marketing degree programs welcome students from diverse academic backgrounds. Applicants without marketing experience may need to complete prerequisite courses, but programs typically assess readiness through GPA, personal statements, and professional experience rather than prior marketing coursework.

Do employers respect online degrees in social media marketing?

Yes—reputable online social media marketing degree programs are held in high esteem, especially when they’re accredited. Studies show 96% of students report a positive ROI, and many employers now recognize online credentials as fully equivalent to on-campus degrees in skill and rigor.

What kind of tech setup do I need for an online social media marketing degree?

At minimum, you’ll need a reliable computer with high-speed internet, a webcam, and access to common digital marketing tools like Google Analytics, Canva, or Meta Business Suite. Some programs may require additional software for video editing, content scheduling, or campaign simulations.