What is a Marketing Degree?

Guide for prospective students considering a degree in marketing

Marketing is a versatile field within business that balances creativity and data-driven decision-making. 

This guide will explore key aspects of a marketing degree, including the 5 Ps of marketing, why marketing is one of the best creative business careers, what you can do in marketing and more.  

Once you know more about what a marketing degree is, you may decide that a future in marketing is a good fit for you. 

So, what does marketing mean?

Marketing is a creative field of business that uses market research to guide strategy and measure success. Marketing students are equipped with skills and knowledge that allow them to navigate diverse business landscapes from sports marketing to data analytics to working in retail and merchandising, and more. 

Many students enter marketing programs with a narrow perception of what the field entails, often associating it solely with advertising. However, marketing encompasses a broad range of disciplines that require both creative and analytical skills. 

The Five Ps of Marketing 

Marketing is built upon five key pillars, known as the five Ps of marketing: 

• Product: Developing and refining products that meet consumer needs. 

• Price: Setting price points strategically to maximize profit and appeal. 

• Place: Managing distribution channels and ensuring products reach the right audience. 

• Promotion: Advertising, public relations and digital marketing strategies. 

• Participation: Engaging consumers through online platforms and social media. 

The advertisements you see on Instagram and at the Superbowl are parts of the promotion pillar. Students entering a marketing program may be surprised to learn that promotion is only one aspect of the discipline.  

A successful marketing professional must understand how all five elements work together to create a strong brand. By identifying the 5 Ps of marketing and addresses each pillar when creating, professionals can effectively target audiences.

Marketing Means More: Marketing Career Possibilities 

One of the most exciting aspects of a marketing degree is the vast array of marketing career possibilities available. Graduates can explore roles in various industries, such as: 

• Retail & Merchandising: Managing product placement and customer engagement.

• Data Analytics & Market Research: Working with consumer insights for major brands. 

• Sports Marketing: Supporting teams with sponsorships, promotions and ticket sales. 

• Sales & Business Development: Including pharmaceutical, technology and business to business (B2B) sales. 

• Digital Marketing & Social Media Management: Running campaigns and analyzing online engagement. 

• Product Development & Branding: Shaping the identity of new and existing products. 

• Supply Chain & Distribution Management: Ensuring products are efficiently delivered to market. 

Because of this variety, marketing graduates have the flexibility to tailor their careers based on their interests and strengths. When asking the question, what can you do in marketing? The answer is simple, anything! 

Likewise, there are numerous pathways when you are considering studying marketing. Many marketing degrees encourage students to declare a minor in other fields. Students can also declare a double major if they are equally interested in marketing and a second field of study that aligns with their other skills and interests.  

Marketing is an excellent complement to relatively any other degree. From healthcare to education to entertainment, marketing will always be needed to promote and engage with audiences. 

At Belmont University, the Jack C. Massey College of Business offers 12 additional programs of study within business that students can combine with a marketing degree — not to mention programs across the other colleges like Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, Entertainment & Music Business and more.   

The Creative Side of Business: Exciting Coursework & Opportunities 

Despite the analytical components, marketing remains one of the most creative disciplines within business education. Students have the opportunity to engage in courses that emphasize innovation and strategic thinking, such as: 

• Strategic Marketing Management: An agency course gives students hands-on training inthe various aspects of strategic marketing management, from branding to messaging to digital media. 

• Consumer Behavior: Exploring psychology, sociology and anthropology in marketing. 

• Social Media Marketing: Running real-world campaigns and analyzing engagement metrics. 

• Market Research & Analytics: Conducting surveys and using data visualization tools. 

• Branding & Design Tools: Gaining hands-on experience with Adobe software for creative branding projects. 

Exciting simulations and projects like digital marketing campaigns, social media strategy development and case competitions prepare students for real-world marketing challenges.  

While creativity is crucial, marketing also involves significant analytical and strategic thinking. This includes: 

• Pricing strategies and cost analysis. 

• Consumer behavior research and segmentation. 

• Digital marketing analytics and performance tracking. 

• Market forecasting and strategic decision-making. 

For students who enjoy problem-solving and strategy, a degree in marketing offers a rewarding balance between data-driven insights and creative execution. A marketing degree is ideal for students who enjoy a mix of creativity, strategic thinking and data analysis. 

Industry Connections & Expert Faculty 

One of the most valuable aspects of pursuing a degree in marketing is the opportunity to learn from industry professionals. Faculty members often bring years of experience from specialized fields, such as: 

• Digital marketing & analytics

• Sales & business strategy 

• Sports marketing 

• Market research & consumer behavior 

• International marketing 

These connections also extend to networking events and job placement opportunities. Students may have access to internships with major corporations, advertising agencies and startups, allowing them to gain real-world experience before graduation. 

Is a Marketing Degree Right for You? 

Yes! Whether you envision yourself developing new brands, analyzing market trends or working in digital media, marketing provides the tools and knowledge to thrive in a fast-paced, ever-evolving industry, a degree in marketing can be right for anyone. 

If you are excited by the challenge of solving business puzzles, crafting compelling brand stories and leveraging data to drive decisions, a marketing degree may be the perfect fit for you.