Have you recently graduated and are unsure what to do next? Or are you seeking new prospects in your career? If so, this blog will answer all of your questions and concerns. In this article, we will discuss the most in-demand and sought-after employment field, which is Digital Marketing.
Most people are confused about what is digital marketing? And if they know what it is and are interested in doing a career in it then, they have doubts regarding whether they should pursue an MBA or just opt for an online course in that field.
Digital marketing, defined in simpler words, is just the marketing of products and services through digital channels. Now, these digital channels can be social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram or they could be messaging apps such as Whatsapp. Any digital channel you use to connect with people can be a mode of promotion for companies to reach their consumers. With people regularly using their phones on a daily basis, the digital channel has become a more convenient way of communication for companies to get in touch with their audience.
Now that we have given you a clear idea about what is digital marketing, let’s discuss the two main mediums through which you can kick-start your career in digital marketing and compare them.
MBA in Digital Marketing
MBA in Digital marketing is a 2-year program that teaches you all about the various aspects of digital marketing and also trains you on managerial and organizational skills. Many universities have started offering this program due to its high demand in the industry.
Digital Marketing is one of the top ten trending careers in India, with an average income of INR 14,69,000 per year, according to LinkedIn. Depending on the college, the average MBA Digital Marketing tuition ranges between INR 3 and 20 lakhs. A standard MBA in Digital Marketing, a distant MBA in Digital Marketing, an online MBA in Digital Marketing, and an executive MBA in Digital Marketing are all options for MBA Digital Marketing programs in India.
In some cases, one has to clear an entrance exam such as CAT/CET or pass a special admission test conducted by the institution during the application process. The syllabus usually is a mix of business aspects and digital marketing techniques, so that students are prepared to face the corporate world with the right set of skills.
The syllabus of MBA in Digital Marketing includes the following topics:
Executive Skills
- Website Planning
- Google Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
- Google Search Engine Marketing (SEM)
- Build your WordPress site
- Primary & Secondary Research
- Brand Analysis & Audit
- Consumer Behaviour Analysis
- Copywriting
- Social Media Marketing (Organic)
- Social Media Marketing (Paid)
- Online Reputation Management
- Customer Relationship Manager (CRM)
- KPI Setting
Managerial Skills
- Presentation Skills
- Client Briefing
- Art of Pitching
- Introduction to Agencies
- Agency Visit
Online Course In Digital Marketing
Online Digital Marketing Course equips students with the knowledge of digital marketing. These courses are more fast-tracked and can be completed in a short time. It usually takes around 5 weeks – 6 months to complete the course.
The fee for the course ranges from INR 5,000 – 1 Lakh, but it ultimately depends on the course provider. Institutions that offered a detailed course on the subject and also hands on-learning usually have fees ranging on the higher side.
Online courses mainly focus on training the students about the tools and techniques of digital marketing. Many institutes or online course providers such as IIDE, Udemy, Edureka, etc, offer these courses.
Their syllabus may include the following topics:
- Introduction to Digital Marketing
- Website Planning & E-commerce Development
- Search Marketing & Blogging
- Creating Marketing Content & Campaign Planning
- Organic Social Media Marketing
- Brand Reputation Management
- Media Planning
- Analytics & Reporting
- Capstone Projects
MBA in Digital Marketing v/s Online Course in Digital Marketing
Both an MBA in Digital Marketing and an online digital marketing course will provide you with knowledge and skills to start your career as a digital marketer. However, students who want a proper degree and want to learn about both business and marketing should pursue the MBA program, because not only does it teach the business side of digital marketing, but it also teaches the technical aspect of digital marketing.
An MBA program allows you to broaden your professional network. Many institutes hold mentor-student sessions or arrange events where students can meet CEOs and other prominent corporate executives who can advise them on their future career paths.
Online digital marketing education is better suited for students and working professionals who cannot dedicate the appropriate amount of time or pay the large sum of money required for an MBA program. It is less expensive than an MBA program but yet teaches you everything you need to know about digital marketing. You can complete the course even while you are working and upskill digitally.
Final Take
As digital marketing grows in prominence, more and more individuals are becoming aware of it. Digital marketing skills on a resume will be a plus point for marketing candidates. Overall, it doesn’t matter which style of learning you choose because both will provide you with vast knowledge about digital marketing topics.
So when, choosing between the two keep in mind your interests, your future goals, the commitment, and also the money required to enroll in the course or program. With this we are ending this blog, we hope that this has helped you gain some clarity regarding your doubts. Also, do read our blog on the benefits of digital marketing for your business.
Author’s Bio
Karan Shah
Founder and CEO at IIDE
Karan Shah is an Edu-preneur, Tedx speaker, Harvard alumnus specializing in eCommerce, and the founder of IIDE – The Digital School.
He is a reputed author on the topics of education, digital marketing, and Ed-techs. Over the years he has penned a plethora of articles in leading news outlets such as Entrepreneur, BusinessWorld, Education Times, and Youth Magazine to name a few.