Digital marketing degrees offer a more in-depth, long-term way to master the field, compared to shorter programs like bootcamps or certificate courses. Bootcamps are fast and hands-on, and certificates zero in on specific skills. But a digital marketing degree in California gives you a solid grounding in both the basics and advanced digital strategies over several years.
With a degree, you’ll cover topics like consumer behavior, marketing theory, data analysis, and digital tactics—essential knowledge that can open doors to leadership roles and higher-level career paths. This well-rounded education is perfect for anyone aiming for steady career growth in marketing.
In terms of salary, digital marketing pros in California earn an average of $78,055 annually, with salaries typically ranging from $45,510 to $133,000, depending on experience and position.
Here are some bachelor’s and master’s degrees in California that can set you up for a successful career in digital marketing:
Bachelors in Digital Marketing in California
Bachelor’s programs provide a solid foundation for those interested in marketing as a whole, while allowing for exploration of its various specialized areas.
Educational Requirements:
- High school diploma or GED certificate
- Transcripts from previous education (usually a minimum GPA of 2.0 – 3.0)
- Some programs may require SAT/ACT scores (though this varies by institution)
Experience:
No professional experience required, though internships or volunteer work in marketing may strengthen the application.
Application Process:
- Online application form
- High school transcripts
- Letters of recommendation (usually from teachers or mentors)
- Personal statement or essay
- SAT/ACT scores (if required)
- Interview (optional, depending on the program)
Here are some top choices of schools in California where you can pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Digital Marketing.
Modality: Online
Credit Hours: 120
Resident/Non-Resident Tuition: $499/credit
Program Overview:
A Bachelor of Science in Digital Marketing (BSDM) degree focuses on preparing students to leverage the latest digital tools and technologies. Accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), this program teaches students to find target audiences, create brand loyalty, and promote products and services to consumers successfully.
With this degree, students can learn how to use cutting-edge tools and technologies so they are equipped to solve real-world problems, generate analytic reports, streamline the buyer’s journey, and understand customer behavior to meet company goals.
Students who enroll in this program will have opportunities as digital content or brand managers, market researchers, and marketing and advertising account executives.
Modality: On-Campus
Credit Hours: 120
GRE: Contingent on GPA
Resident Tuition: $7,992/year
Non-Resident Tuition: $7,992/annual + $396/unit
Program Overview:
Through this program, students get a chance to learn not only about creating a product or service but also about managing relationships with customers. This course is specifically designed so that students can keep up with ever-changing Silicon Valley trends.
An up-to-date marketing program like this will spark innovation, leading to multi-disciplinary opportunities. Students will be more prepared for real-world marketing trends and struggles alike.
Modality: On-Campus
Credit Hours: 120
Resident Tuition: $47,862/year
Program Overview:
This Film and Digital Media program offered by the University of California provides an encompassing curriculum that covers the cultural impact of movies, television, and the internet. Students create video and interactive digital media for different classes.
Along with an understanding of films, students will gain creative and analytical skills, the ability to think critically, and advanced knowledge of online marketing tools and strategies. This provides a much-needed headstart in the field.
Modality: On-Campus
Credit Hours: 120
GRE: Contingent on GPA
Resident Tuition: $10,296/year
Program Overview:
Marketing involves learning, understanding, and meeting an entity’s needs, whether an individual or a business. It also involves effective methods of informing existing and potential customers of the availability of goods and services through traditional and digital channels.
California State University aims to provide in-depth information in an ever-changing landscape, ensuring students are equipped with what they need for a long and successful career.
California Digital Marketing Masters Programs
California colleges offer advanced programs for anyone looking to step up their skills or make a switch into digital marketing. Masteral programs are great for recent digital marketing grads aiming to boost their resumes or for professionals wanting to refresh their skills and stay ahead in the field.
Educational Requirements:
- A completed bachelor’s degree (in marketing, business, communications, or a related field)
- Minimum GPA requirement (usually around 3.0)
- Some programs may require a specific background in business or marketing
Experience:
Professional experience (typically 1-3 years in marketing or a related field, although some programs may be open to applicants without work experience)
Application Process:
- Application form
- Undergraduate transcripts
- 2 or 3 letters of recommendation (usually from academic or professional contacts)
- Personal statement or essay
- GMAT/GRE scores (may be required for some programs)
- Interview (may be required by some universities)
If you’re looking to pursue a Master’s Degree in Digital Marketing, consider some of California’s top institutions offering these advanced programs.
Modality: Online
Credit Hours: 30
Resident Tuition: $12,000/year
Program Overview:
Master the art of social media, blogging, SEO, email, video, and WordPress development to create an impressively educated marketing plan. Thanks to this program, students can refine their skills through projects like promoting their digital portfolio to potential employers.
Some of the key focus areas of studies include effective and contemporary strategies in management, social media and marketing techniques, SEO, email, and other tools used for effective marketing campaigns and strategies.
The best part? Contemporary Technology University doesn’t charge a tuition fee until you get a high-paying job. Its Study Now Pay Later Model allows students to focus on the course and learn about the industry without worrying about paying for tuition.
Modality: On-Campus
Credit Hours: N/A
GRE: Unknown
Resident/Non-Resident Tuition: $56,700/year
Tuition: $868/credit
Program Overview:
Take your knowledge to the next level with data-driven leadership. Learn about data analysis, tackle real-world challenges, and understand customer journeys on a global level to develop impressive digital marketing strategies, conduct product research, and explore global expansion opportunities.
Thanks to this program, students can become data-savvy and find themselves in leadership roles right after graduation. Hult has a centrally located campus and is one of the world’s most influential business hubs, making it a great place for job placements.
Hult is recognized by business education’s three most prestigious international accrediting bodies: The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International), the Association of MBAs (AMBA), and EQUIS (The European Quality Improvement System).
Modality: On-Campus & Online
Credit Hours: 34
GRE: None
Resident/Non-Resident Tuition: $825/credit unit
Program Overview:
The AACSB has accredited this program, so the school surpasses teaching, research, curriculum, and learner success standards. The MS in Digital Marketing program is designed for students and business professionals who want to advance their digital marketing and marketing data science knowledge.
This STEM-centered curriculum combines the implementation of modern and traditional skills so that every student is prepared for all roles, from social media and digital marketing to customer analytics and data science. The curriculum is ever-changing due to industry developments and offers the support needed through research seminars, expert speaker series, virtual workshops, and other student success programs.
Modality: On-Campus
Credit Hours: 47
GRE: Unknown
Resident Tuition: $18,200
Program Overview:
Understand the ins and outs of social media blogging, SEO, and more to create effective marketing plans. In this post-grad program, you’ll learn about some of the most effective strategies and tools, including video and audio production, WordPress, SEO, email, and other tools in marketing campaigns. This will open many doors to a bright future in digital marketing.
Anyone with a bachelor’s degree or a professional with several years of experience who wants to expand their knowledge in the field can apply for this program. It is a fantastic course that will keep you updated with current practices.
Digital Marketing Degree in Other States
Nevada
Oregon
New York
Washington
Texas
Florida