2026 Best Online Digital Marketing Degrees
To find the best digital marketing degree online, compare bachelor's programs using verified student ratings.
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The best digital marketing degrees online prepare students to reach and understand audiences through content strategy, SEO, social media, paid advertising, and marketing analytics.
Key Takeaways:
- The top 5 on the list below have a review rating of at least 4.0/5, while the top four are recommended by at least 90% of reviewers.
- ASU offers the strongest combination of reviews and reported earnings. It pairs a 4.07/5 rating and 93% recommendation rate with the highest median salary on the list among digital marketing graduates at $80,113.
- Arkansas State stands out as the lowest-cost highly rated option. Its $8,760 annual tuition is the lowest in the ranking, yet it places fourth with a 4.07 rating and 90% recommendation rate.
Compare student perspectives below as well as tuition and salary outcomes to choose a bachelor's program aligned with your goals. We interviewed industry professional Caleb Johnstone to gain insight about the best digital marketing degrees online.
How We Rank "Best" Schools
The OnlineU research team verifies that only institutionally accredited schools offering at least one fully online bachelor's in digital marketing degree make the cut. On top of that, schools must also have at least five verified student reviews and an aggregate rating of 2.5+ on a five-point scale. While some of our rankings include partner schools, every school is evaluated using the exact same criteria.
We prioritize the most relevant student feedback by starting with reviews tied to the exact program and degree level. If too few bachelor's in digital marketing qualify, we gradually expand the review pool to include related programs or other degree levels, while preserving the most program-specific results at the top of the list. This process continues until all eligible review data has been considered.
We also manually research all tuition rates and include median earnings for digital marketing majors five years after graduation when that data is available. By presenting the most complete data available, we aim to give you an honest, well-rounded picture of each program.
2026 Best Online Digital Marketing Degrees
| Rank | School | Review Rating | Recommendation | 97% | 97% | $12,870 | N/A |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University, Online | 4.07 / 5 | 93% | $17,400 | $80,113 | |||
| Arkansas State University | 4.07 / 5 | 90% | $8,760 | $48,842 | |||
| Lamar University | 4.0 / 5 | 81% | 76% | $17,250 | N/A | ||
| Purdue Global | 3.76 / 5 | 75% | $11,130 | N/A | |||
| Liberty University | 3.68 / 5 | 75% | $11,700 | N/A | |||
| Mount Vernon Nazarene University | 3.67 / 5 | 74% | 87% | 71% | $10,260 | $68,135 | |
| Indiana Wesleyan University Online | 3.12 / 5 | 58% | 62% | 66% | $20,760 | N/A | |
| National University | 2.82 / 5 | 49% | $11,100 | N/A |
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- UAB is #1 for Best by Student Reviews, a strong signal that students have had a positive academic experience and that the program delivers on quality in ways learners take notice of.
- There are two possible online formats, including a self-paced option and an Enhanced Online with Premium format that includes guaranteed course seating and accelerated classes.
- Students can pursue internship opportunities as part of a program designed to connect classroom learning with professional marketing experience.
Student Review Summary: Reviews of the University of Alabama at Birmingham are predominantly favorable, driven by strong ratings and widespread recommendations. Students consistently praise accessible professors, responsive advisors, and small or manageable class settings that make them feel supported rather than anonymous. Many describe coursework as rigorous, in-depth, and career-oriented, with practical training, research exposure, and flexible online or hybrid options that fit work and family obligations. Students also value diversity, community involvement, and modern resources. Recurring drawbacks center on the urban setting: difficult parking, crime and neighborhood safety concerns, limited traditional campus feel, occasional administrative confusion in large online cohorts, and uneven support outside health-focused areas.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 2,288 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: N/A
- Out-of-State Tuition: $22,562
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: $62,426
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 64%
- Retention Rate: 80%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- Students can earn an undergraduate Digital Marketing certificate while completing the bachelor’s degree without adding a separate credential track. The curriculum also allows students to pair the marketing major with a Nonprofit Management certificate.
- The B.S. in Marketing is accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education.
Student Review Summary: Reviewers describe Wilmington University as a flexible, career-focused option that works especially well for people balancing full-time jobs, family obligations, and commuting constraints. They frequently praise multiple course formats, accelerated blocks, online access, evening and weekend scheduling, and several campus locations. Many say instructors bring substantial real-world experience, offer responsive support, and connect coursework to practical workplace situations. Affordability and lower textbook costs also stand out, with several reviewers linking their education to promotions, salary growth, or quick employment. Criticisms are narrower but notable: inconsistent advising, uneven staff quality, limited social connection, scarce scholarships, infrequently offered classes, and fast-paced accelerated terms.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 7,039 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $12,870
- Out-of-State Tuition: $12,870
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 20%
- Retention Rate: 61%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- This degree is structured as an online BS in Marketing with a dedicated Digital concentration instead of a general marketing major with a small group of digital electives. The curriculum combines foundational marketing principles with digital strategy, emerging marketing technology, and data-informed decision-making.
- Online students can pursue internships, research opportunities, clubs, and hands-on learning through the university’s broader digital learning ecosystem.
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Arizona State University, Online are broadly positive, driven by strong ratings and repeated praise for flexibility, responsive professors, and systems that help working adults balance school, jobs, and family life. Students often value the user-friendly portal, frequent outreach from advisors, and access to tutoring, research, internships, and career support. Many say the online format feels credible and comparable to in-person study. Criticism centers on uneven advising, delayed grading or email responses, high tuition and extra fees, and some online courses relying too heavily on prerecorded lectures, compressed sessions, or self-teaching. Several students also caution that unclear career outcomes can limit return on investment.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 57,610 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $17,400
- Out-of-State Tuition: $17,400
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: $80,113
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 68%
- Retention Rate: 93%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- The degree requires fewer mathematics courses than a traditional computer science program while retaining technical coursework in digital interfaces and interactive design. It combines digital design with print production, covering web layouts, mobile applications, prepress, press checks, color checks, and both digital and offset printing.
- Online students complete a professional portfolio designed to demonstrate work across interactive media, graphic communications, and marketing materials.
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Arkansas State University are largely positive, driven by strong ratings and broad willingness to recommend. Many students praise flexible online formats, especially accelerated seven-week terms, saying they make it possible to balance coursework with full-time jobs, parenting, and irregular schedules. Affordability is another recurring strength, with several reviewers noting competitive tuition and solid value. Students also highlight supportive professors, responsive advisors, easy admissions, relevant real-world assignments, and practical career impact. Criticism centers on inconsistent organization in some online courses, heavy workloads, delayed grading or feedback, limited professor access, technology issues, weak communication, and, in a few severe cases, administrative disorganization.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 2,824 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $8,760
- Out-of-State Tuition: $8,760
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: $48,842
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 55%
- Retention Rate: 78%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- Applied projects require students to manage brand presence, use marketing technologies and analytics tools, and evaluate campaign performance. Students create comprehensive marketing plans using consumer trend analysis, market research, and strategic positioning techniques.
- The program uses accelerated courses and has multiple start dates throughout the year.
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Lamar University are broadly positive, driven by strong ratings and frequent praise for approachable professors, small classes, and flexible online formats that fit full-time work and family demands. Many students value five-week or eight-week course structures, clear assignment calendars, affordable tuition, and practical coursework that translates directly to career growth. Online access is repeatedly described as convenient and manageable, especially for working adults. The main complaints are serious but less common: poor communication from advisors or administrative offices, inconsistent grading and limited feedback in some online courses, heavy busywork, certification or scheduling setbacks, scarce aid, and concerns about campus safety and surrounding neighborhoods.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 2,566 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: N/A
- Out-of-State Tuition: $18,745
- Program Length: N/A
- Median Earnings: $46,162
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 37%
- Retention Rate: 62%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Stories Behind the Best Online Digital Marketing Degrees: An Editorial Analysis
Digital Marketing Through an E-Commerce Lens
University of the Southwest
Southwest approaches digital marketing through the operations of electronic commerce with an online BBA in E-Commerce that focuses on conducting business online, developing competitive e-business strategies, managing virtual marketing campaigns, and maintaining digital customer contact and support.
This commerce-centered framework separates it from programs primarily organized around advertising platforms, content creation, or social media management. Students examine how marketing functions within a broader online business model, making the program especially relevant to those interested in digital storefronts, customer journeys, online service, and commercial strategy.
Turning Marketing Coursework Into an Employer-Facing Brand
Concordia University - St. Paul
In addition to a portfolio capstone, CU students develop a broader Career Portfolio that brings together work samples, personal branding, networking preparation, and interview skills. This makes professional presentation part of the academic structure rather than leaving students to assemble a portfolio independently after completing the degree.
The curriculum strengthens that portfolio with embedded certificates in digital marketing and e-commerce, data analysis, and conflict resolution, creating evidence of technical, analytical, and workplace communication skills.
A Digital Marketing Degree With Its Own Creative Toolkit
Full Sail University
Full Sail provides the ranking’s most extensive program-integrated technology package. Through Project LaunchBox, digital marketing students receive an Apple MacBook, three years of AppleCare coverage, Adobe Creative Cloud, Microsoft Office 365, and related accessories intended for use throughout the curriculum.
Full Sail states that its degree pricing also incorporates textbooks, production materials, laboratory and technology fees, and LaunchBox components, creating a bundled cost structure.
Expert Interview: How to Turn an Online Digital Marketing Degree Into Career Momentum
What does it really take to stand out in digital marketing today? And can an online degree get you there? We asked two industry pros who live and breathe this stuff. Below, they share what students should focus on beyond degree logistics, from building hands-on projects to mastering emerging tools like AI and CRO. Their advice cuts through the noise and gets to the heart of what makes new grads hireable in a competitive field.
“Textbooks Can Never Teach You as Much as Experience Will”: Caleb Johnstone on What Makes an Online Marketing Degree Work
SEO Director and Digital Marketing Strategist
Digital marketing changes all the time. What makes earning a degree online especially relevant in this field?
"Digital marketing online learning is applicable since it is adaptable in real time. Programs on the Internet are faster to incorporate the new trends and tools. As an illustration, students may get to know about such a platform as TikTok and the possibility to place ads there. This will enable students to utilize what they learn immediately.
Online degrees also assist the students in honing the remote working abilities and self-discipline. They are critical in the marketing environment where everything is changing."
From your perspective, how well do online digital marketing degrees actually prepare students for life beyond college?
"Online digital marketing degree can... equip students well, provided that the course involves practical activities. These projects ought to be based on the real life situations. As an example, they might be able to run real advertising campaigns and base their decisions on data. When a program is too theoretical and lacks practical applications, then this will not prepare the students well to the job market."
Students who will graduate with experience in ad placement or creation of SEO plans will be ahead of the curve.
Are there particular areas in digital marketing you see growing?
"The most rapidly developing spheres are voice search optimization and AI-based marketing. Marketers should change their voice search SEO strategies as voice assistants such as Siri and Alexa gain popularity. Chatbots and predictive analytics are some of the AI tools transforming the relationship between businesses and customers.
Video marketing that is customized is also increasing. In the case of videos, marketers are tailoring them to suit the needs of individual customers. These are the spheres that will determine the future of digital marketing."
What digital marketing certifications do you most recommend?
"Such certifications as Google Ads and Google Analytics are necessary. To be different, however, students can think of conversion rate optimization (CRO) and data storytelling certifications.
CRO assists students to understand how to convert traffic into real sales.
Data storytelling educates one on how to present data in a meaningful manner.
Such certifications coupled with the degree indicate that the students are not limited to the basics. They are also able to ensure that marketing works in the business."
What kinds of real-world portfolio projects can help online students when presenting to possible employers?
"Projects that demonstrate measurable outcomes can be presented by students. An excellent initiative may be to design and execute a full-funnel campaign. This involves awareness advertisements that take the customer through the sales funnel to the last conversion phase.
Students may also practice a customized email marketing campaign with them segmenting the customers and monitoring the engagement. Such kinds of projects exhibit the capability to implement and interpret marketing activities that have direct influence on the success of a business."
EXPERT TIP
"Begin to do real-world projects as soon as you can. As much as a degree will provide you with the basis, personal projects will make you shine. Place advertisements of a local company or establish a personal blog or social network. Textbooks can never teach you as much as experience will. It is also important to network. Developing contacts with people in the industry may result in an opportunity and knowledge that will fast track your career."
FAQs for Comparing the Best Online Digital Marketing Degrees
What Should You Look for in an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Digital Marketing?
Digital marketing — an occupation that's expanding at a rapid pace — offers a wealth of job opportunities for prospective college students.
This growing market highlights the importance of digital marketing and the need for qualified professionals in the field. An online bachelor’s program in digital marketing can be a great first step toward joining this bustling industry.
While many colleges offer general marketing degrees, some are now offering targeted bachelor's programs in digital marketing. Broad-based programs will include topics like brand management and market research techniques, but digital marketing programs take a deep dive into digital media, search engine optimization (SEO), and social media.
If digital media is your passion and you're thinking about preparing for a career in digital marketing, you can choose between earning a digital marketing degree online or in person. Online degrees are now just as respected as traditional degrees, and the flexibility of attending school on your own schedule may be a better fit for your needs.
Looking for ways to save money on a marketing degree? Check out our list of the most affordable bachelor's degrees and most affordable master's degrees in marketing.
What Admission and Graduation Requirements Should You Compare?
In this field, admission requirements reflect academic readiness, of course, but also a passion for the field. Most schools require a GPA of 2.5 to 3.0, along with letters of recommendation from teachers and any other professional/academic mentors. A personal statement or essay is usually needed. This is where you outline your interest in digital marketing and related career aspirations. While schools are increasingly test-optional, others may ask for ACT or SAT scores that meet minimum thresholds.
Once admitted, you’ll complete around 120 credit hours, which includes classes that cover the foundation of marketing strategies, SEO, content strategy, analytics, and social media.
Which Online Courses and Applied Experiences Should a Strong Digital Marketing Program Include?
In addition to major-specific courses, many programs in digital marketing require you to complete internships and capstone projects. These learning experiences help you gain practical experience while allowing you to demonstrate your understanding of digital and traditional marketing principles. Your capstone project also makes a great addition to your portfolio of professional work.
Bachelor's programs often include the following common courses:
- Principles of Marketing: Whether they're specializing in digital marketing or not, all marketing students need a comprehensive overview of the foundational concepts in marketing, including product development, pricing strategies, promotion, and distribution. This course explores how to identify target markets, understand consumer behavior, and develop effective marketing plans.
- Social Media Marketing: Social media platforms have become powerful marketing tools, so this course features hands-on assignments that teach students how to craft compelling content, build online communities, and measure the impact of social media campaigns. Coursework covers strategies for various platforms and discusses how to effectively engage with audiences and manage a brand's online presence.
- Search Engine Optimization (SEO): This course focuses on the strategies used to improve website visibility and ranking on search engines, covering topics such as keyword research, on-page and off-page optimization, and link building. It also teaches students about SEO-friendly web design and how to analyze website performance using SEO tools and metrics.
- Digital Advertising: Probably one of the later classes in a digital marketing bachelor's program, this course explores the principles and strategies of advertising in the digital world. Coursework should cover advanced topics such as pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, display ads, and mobile advertising. It provides students with an understanding of how to develop and execute effective digital advertising campaigns, as well as how to measure and analyze their impact.
- Content Marketing: This course examines the process of creating and distributing valuable, relevant, and consistent content to attract and engage a clearly defined audience. It covers content strategy, creation, distribution, and measurement. Learners practice developing various forms of content, including blogs, videos, and infographics, to achieve marketing and business goals.
- Digital Data Analytics: Digital marketing efforts need to be closely measured and monitored to ensure they're achieving the desired results. This course introduces students to the techniques and tools used to collect and interpret data in order to make informed marketing decisions. It covers topics such as customer segmentation, competitive analysis, and the use of statistical software, such as Google Analytics.
How Can You Compare Accreditation Across Online Digital Marketing Programs?
Institutional accreditation is essential when selecting an online digital marketing program. Accreditation ensures that the college or university meets specific quality standards, and it can impact financial aid eligibility, credit transfers, and job prospects after graduation.
All of the schools on our list of the best online digital marketing degrees are accredited. However, you can find out if the school you're considering attending has earned institutional accreditation by searching the or directories.
Individual programs can also earn programmatic accreditation, which means that they have been designed to give you industry-standard skills and knowledge. Undergraduate programs in business, which include marketing programs, may be accredited by either the (ACBSP) or the (AACSB).
What Skills Should an Online Digital Marketing Degree Help You Build?
The qualifications for becoming a digital marketer typically include a bachelor's in digital marketing or a related field, practical experience (e.g., internships or having worked in entry-level positions), and a firm grasp of digital platforms and marketing strategies.
You must know how to use different types of software, such as data analytics, photo imaging, and customer relationship management (CRM) software. Also, some useful soft skills to develop are team collaboration, active listening, writing content, and problem-solving.
As the Internet landscape continues to evolve with increased competition, the demand for those who profoundly understand digital marketing strategies will continue to grow. Colleges with the best digital marketing degrees can help you prepare for a rewarding career.
What Can You Do With an Online Bachelor's Degree in Digital Marketing?
A bachelor's degree in digital marketing equips graduates with the technical skills to enter careers in social media marketing, SEO, digital advertising, and content marketing, to name a few areas.
While a bachelor's degree in digital marketing provides a basic foundation, you may yet decide to further your education with a master's or doctoral degree in the field at a later point. Graduate programs, such as a master's degree in marketing, a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in marketing, or a Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) with a marketing specialization can provide advanced marketing skills and leadership training that can open doors to higher-level roles.
Once you've earned your online digital marketing degree, you'll be prepared to start building your marketing career by taking on one of several roles within the field. For example, you could become an SEO specialist who optimizes website content for search engines to improve ranking and visibility. You could also become a social media manager who develops and implements marketing strategies on social media platforms.
As you gain experience, you may be able to advance to higher-level management positions. Digital marketing managers, for instance, oversee the planning, development, and execution of marketing campaigns across various digital channels. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for all is $159,660. This occupation is projected to grow by 6% through the end of the decade, which is faster than average.
Student Reviews of Online Digital Marketing Programs
I love the amount of control I am able to have while going to school online. It has been a blessing to be able to work, and go to school for something i'm really interested in. The professors could definitely be a bit more involved, but if you like independence this is the school for you.
Review Date: 7/16/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I love the amount of control I am able to have while going to school online. It has been a blessing to be able to work, and go to school for something i'm really interested in. The professors could definitely be a bit more involved, but if you like independence this is the school for you.
Review Date: 7/16/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I like the flexibility of the program and the fact that I get a US degree which does not mention it is online is really good. Credit transfer option is also available so that is an added advantage - if I wish to go to the US for further studies I have that option. The curriculum is up to date, which is especially important considering I am pursuing Digital Marketing. The best part is, I have already been employed in an agency as a digital marketing executive and I can implement everything I learn... Read More
Review Date: 3/7/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Fantastic experience. This school is underrated and has received a bad rap due to the law suit against it for misrepresentation of employment potential (which for me is silly). I have been studying online and through the mail for over a decade at three separate institutions. CTU is far and above my best experience. The faculty is highly professional and extremely helpful. Whenever I had an issue, they were always there for me. Indeed, without their support, I would not have finished my degree. As... Read More
Review Date: 3/6/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
A Great School with a great culture! The teachers for the most part are great and the atmosphere on campus was amazing! It is a community that has a real culture and school identity while it is not a major Big 10 School the sports and clubs make the school a great one to go to
Review Date: 4/23/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Please under no circumstances should anyone entertain this college. They are a true rip off. The staff is deceitful especially the students financing department. They have withheld funds from the Dept. of Ed and they are not releasing them to the student. Also, once you begin your course there is no end in sight. They continue to add courses and no one is aware of their graduation date. They just continue to milk the students. Now they have deleted all voicemails on their answering machines and are... Read More
Review Date: 4/13/2020
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
My experience at the school has been highly positive, reflected by a perfect five-star rating, and I would certainly recommend it to other prospective students. The institution offers a strong academic program, receiving a four-star rating, and I am satisfied with the career impact of the education I have received so far.
Review Date: 12/7/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Even though I loved my school, I feel as though athletics and social life are prioritized for students over academics. Being an SEC school, they are highly known for both of those things. The buildings were outdated and often not in good condition. It was a beautiful campus, though. I think if I had a chance to do college over, I would go to a community college for the first two years, then go to LSU for my final two years.
Review Date: 12/8/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
My experience at Central Connecticut State University was overall positive. The Digital Marketing program gave me a solid understanding of marketing concepts, analytics, and digital platforms. A few professors really stood out and brought real-world experience into the classroom, which made the material more engaging and practical. Like any school, some classes felt more valuable than others, but overall I felt like I gained useful skills. The campus environment was friendly and it was easy to get... Read More
Review Date: 3/11/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
My experience at Central Connecticut State University was overall positive. The Digital Marketing program gave me a solid understanding of marketing concepts, analytics, and digital platforms. A few professors really stood out and brought real-world experience into the classroom, which made the material more engaging and practical. Like any school, some classes felt more valuable than others, but overall I felt like I gained useful skills. The campus environment was friendly and it was easy to get... Read More
Review Date: 3/11/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Need help with job finding even though went to college. Great place to meet others and get a education. The professors are smart, but the actually students vary. Too concerned with sports especially football. Decent city, but has gone down. Overall, best college in Texas.
Review Date: 2/10/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No