General education requirements for marketing degrees usually require basic classes in mathematics, psychology, sociology, writing, speech, and business. (see reference 1) Some schools place greater emphasis on history, business, ethics and computer courses. Marketing is a communications based discipline that requires strong skills in writing and speaking, as well as a good understanding of human behavior.
A strong grasp of accounting is generally required for marketing degrees, as well as business management, human resource management, economics, statistics and distribution methods. The foundation classes for a marketing degree provide a broad background of business principles necessary for assembling information and devising workable marketing plans. Foundation classes in marketing principles are introduced that teach students the functions of marketing, how to gain insight into effective marketing plans, understand market research, integrate marketing to sales, create effective sales programs, create objective and strategies toward goals, use market segmentation and understand the link between marketing and public relations efforts.
Advanced classes in marketing familiarize students with business law, customer relationships, integrated marketing systems, consumer behavior, market research methods, internet marketing and global marketing models. Students investigate current models of marketing and analyze their success. Exercises in evaluating market research data, devising advertising campaigns, promotional strategy, analyzing costs, directing target efforts and providing customer service and satisfaction are included in course studies.
A master’s degree in business administration with marketing emphasis is preferred for those seeking advanced marketing manager positions. These programs offer more intensive business administration coursework, as well as in-depth coverage of specialized areas of marketing, including buyer motivation, sales management, advertising management, and international marketing issues. Doctorate programs in marketing are also available throughout the U.S., offering comprehensive coverage of marketing concepts and principles to prepare students for academic and related careers in marketing. These programs provide advanced competencies in conducting quality research, directing research of others, and communicating research findings. (see reference 3)