Thinking about a marketing major? Here’s what to expect

If you're someone who notices Super Bowl commercials more than the game—or you're always analyzing why certain trends take off—marketing could be your thing. A marketing major is for students who are curious about what makes people tick, how brands connect with audiences, and how to turn big ideas into real results.

So, what is a marketing major?

A marketing major focuses on the strategies behind promoting, selling, and positioning products or services. You’ll study how businesses identify their audience, create demand, and build brand loyalty. It's equal parts art and science—combining creativity with data analysis and strategic thinking.

What courses and concentrations can you expect?

Coursework varies by school, but here are examples of what you'll likely see:

• Principles of marketing
• Consumer behavior
• Digital and social media marketing
• Brand management
• Marketing analytics
• Advertising strategy

You may also choose a concentration such as:

• Digital marketing
• Market research
• Global marketing
• Sports marketing
• Fashion marketing

What skills will I walk away with?

Marketing majors build a toolkit of both hard and soft skills. On the technical side, you'll get experience with search engine optimization (SEO), analytics tools, email platforms, and content creation. Soft skills include communication, problem-solving, and project management—basically everything employers love.

What pairs well with a marketing degree?

Popular double majors and minors include:

• Psychology: Learn how people think and what influences decisions.
• Data analytics: Dive deeper into the numbers behind marketing strategies.
• Communications: Strengthen your storytelling and public speaking skills.
• Graphic design: Enhance the visual side of branding and content creation.

What can I do with a marketing degree?

Marketing majors have tons of flexibility after graduation. Whether you want to work for a start-up, a global brand, or even launch your own business, here are some roles to explore:

• Marketing coordinator
• Brand manager
• Social media strategist
• Market research analyst
• Public relations specialist
• Digital marketing manager

Many grads also go on to earn an MBA or pursue specialized certifications in areas like Google Analytics or email marketing.

How much can I earn with a marketing degree?

Entry-level marketing roles typically start between $45,000 and $60,000, but that can grow quickly. Digital marketing managers, for example, can earn $80,000+, while senior brand directors and CMOs (Chief Marketing Officers) can earn well into six figures.

Emerging areas in marketing

Marketing is evolving fast. Hot new fields include:

• Influencer marketing: Building campaigns with creators and social stars
• AI Marketing: Using machine learning to personalize content and analyze data
• Sustainability marketing: Promoting ethical and eco-friendly brands
• Experiential marketing: Creating immersive, in-person brand experiences

Notable schools for marketing majors

Some schools known for strong marketing programs include:

• University of Pennsylvania (Wharton)
• University of Michigan (Ross)
• New York University (Stern)
• Indiana University (Kelley)
• Boston College (Carroll)

Not sure where to apply? Use Scout College Search to explore your options.

How to pay for your marketing degree

Marketing degrees are an investment—but there are ways to make it more affordable. Be sure to file the FAFSA^®  each year to qualify for federal financial aid—including grants which you don't have to pay back.

Scholarships are also a great way to cover your education costs. Check out scholarships for marketing majors, apply for our easy $2K No Essay Scholarship, and use Scholly Scholarships to match with opportunities based on your skills and interests. 

Is a marketing major right for me?

If you're someone who’s both creative and strategic, loves working with people, and gets excited by trends, marketing could be your perfect fit. With a marketing degree, you’ll be prepared for a wide range of careers—and you'll have the tools to help brands grow and connect with the world.