Social media is now core marketing infrastructure, and employers increasingly want people who can do it strategically rather than just post. A social media marketing degree builds that foundation, blending content, paid social, analytics, community management, and brand strategy. This guide explains what these programs cover, whether you actually need a degree, what careers and salaries to expect, and then compares accredited bachelor’s, master’s, and certificate options you can start today.
Social media marketing degrees at a glance
Prefer a shorter path? Compare bootcamps and certificates, or see all digital marketing degrees.
Do you need a degree to work in social media?
Honestly, not always. Many social media managers are hired on the strength of a portfolio, real campaign results, and a recognized certification rather than a diploma. Where a degree earns its cost is in the broader foundation it gives you: marketing strategy, analytics, consumer behavior, and the credibility that helps you move into management or cross-functional roles later. If you want to test the field first, a certificate or industry certification is a low-risk start. For a deeper look, read do you need a degree for a digital marketing career.
Choose your level
Certificate
Bachelor’s degree
Master’s degree
You can also earn social media skills as a concentration inside a broader marketing or communication degree, or through an industry certification from a platform or training provider. All four routes appear below.
What you’ll learn
Programs vary, but most social media marketing degrees and certificates build the same core skills: content strategy and copywriting for each platform; paid social advertising across Meta, TikTok, and LinkedIn; analytics and social listening with tools like GA4 and native platform insights; community management and engagement; influencer and creator partnerships; and campaign planning tied to brand goals. Many programs also teach the everyday tools of the trade, including Hootsuite, Buffer, and Adobe Creative Cloud.
Careers and salaries
A social media background leads to roles such as social media manager, social media specialist or coordinator, content strategist, community manager, digital marketing specialist, and, with experience, brand or marketing manager. One honest note on pay: the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics does not track “social media manager” as its own occupation. Most of these roles fall under marketing specialists, who earn a median of $78,760 per year, while marketing managers earn a median of $166,790 (BLS, May 2025). Entry-level coordinator roles typically start below the specialist median, and senior or management roles climb well above it.
Bachelor’s degrees in social media marketing
The bachelor’s degree in social media marketing from Strayer University equips students with essential skills to master social media marketing. At Strayer University, participants learn to leverage popular social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok to drive brand engagement and growth. The program emphasizes practical skills such as market research, digital analytics, social advertising, and website design, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for successful careers in social media marketing. Strayer University’s social media marketing program comprises 40 11-week courses. The curriculum is designed to meet regulatory standards, requiring students to invest 10 to 14 hours of work per week per course. Accredited and recognized for its academic quality, Strayer University ensures that graduates receive a diploma that holds significant value in the professional world.
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The Bachelor of Arts in Social Media degree at Grand Canyon University (GCU) is for students passionate about social media and its impact on consumers and businesses. Offered by the College of Arts and Media, this program focuses on equipping students with practical skills to design and produce digital content for various platforms, supporting the business goals of employers. Participants will learn to create social media campaigns, blogs, websites, email marketing, and other digital media activities, developing a strong foundation in marketing principles alongside specialized courses in digital advertising and social media marketing. GCU’s program offers hands-on learning experiences both on its vibrant Phoenix campus and online. The 120-credit curriculum covers a wide range of skills, including social media analytics, reputation management, and multimedia journalism, preparing graduates for careers in social media management, digital marketing, advertising, public relations, and more.
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The Bachelor of Science in Digital Marketing & Social Media at Johnson & Wales University (JWU) is designed for students who are passionate about the latest social media trends and digital marketing strategies. This program prepares students to turn their skills into a career, helping companies engage and expand their audience across various digital platforms. As digital marketing is the fastest-growing marketing area, there is an increasing demand for professionals who can effectively plan and communicate brand messaging. Through targeted courses, students in JWU’s Digital Marketing & Social Media degree program will learn to develop effective strategies for platforms like Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram, and YouTube. The curriculum covers essential topics such as optimizing web design, creating compelling digital content, assessing the customer journey, and evaluating user experience. Students will also gain skills in data-driven marketing, digital media planning, marketing analytics, and search engine marketing. The comprehensive program equips graduates with the knowledge to help organizations make better-informed decisions about media buys and messaging, ultimately enhancing company performance.
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Point Park University’s Social Media Management Degree Completion Program is designed to equip students with the essential skills needed for success in social media careers. This accredited, fully online program combines management techniques with innovative social media marketing concepts. Students benefit from small class sizes, access to faculty with real-world experience, and a dedicated student success advisor to guide them from application to graduation. The curriculum focuses on real-world projects and social media training that can lead to specific credentials, preparing students for various careers in social media management. Point Park University’s online platform ensures that students receive the same quality education and resources as on-campus students, making it an affordable and effective path to career advancement in social media management.
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Lindenwood University offers a Bachelor of Science degree specializing in social media marketing, available in online or blended formats. This program is designed to equip students with essential skills in content marketing, including creating, analyzing, and optimizing social media content and campaigns. Students will develop a strong foundation in information gathering techniques and data analysis, learning to define and analyze audiences and measure the effectiveness of social media strategies. At Lindenwood, students are taught by knowledgeable instructors with real-world experience in digital content, marketing, and social media. The curriculum includes courses such as Digital Content and Demographics, Personal Branding and Content Creation, and Contemporary Audience Analysis. Graduates will be well-prepared for careers as Social Media and Digital Content Strategists, capable of crafting and implementing social media, marketing, and online strategies for various organizations.
Visit program website →Master’s degrees in social media marketing
At the College of Journalism and Communications, the Master’s Degree in Social Media is designed to help students make meaningful online connections and equip them with the tools and training to reach their audience effectively. This program goes beyond simply teaching how to use current social media platforms; it adopts a holistic approach by incorporating writing, video production, and brand marketing. Students learn to use research to drive content creation, develop effective advertising and public relations campaigns, and leverage new and emerging technologies for audience engagement. The program emphasizes creating compelling narratives that resonate with target audiences, fostering meaningful engagement. In addition to core content, students can customize their learning experience with a wide range of electives tailored to their personal interests and career goals. This 36-credit hour program, which can be completed 100% online, includes a capstone course guided by an Advisory Council of top industry experts. The curriculum, taught by both industry professionals and University of Florida faculty, provides the foundation needed to offer valuable marketing services to any business or organization.
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Liberty University’s online Master’s in Social Media Management is designed for individuals passionate about using social media to connect with others and lead impactful digital marketing strategies. This program equips students with the skills needed to post captivating content, develop effective advertising and public relations campaigns, and use new technologies to engage target audiences. The curriculum covers various aspects of social media management, including radio, television, writing, and leadership, preparing graduates for dynamic roles in a fast-paced industry. Students can complete this 100% online program in as little as one year, benefiting from the flexibility of 8-week courses and the ability to transfer up to 50% of the degree total. With a focus on practical, marketable skills, the MS in Social Media Management program teaches students to produce effective social media strategies, craft compelling messages, and stay updated with emerging trends. Coursework includes storytelling techniques, organizational communication strategies, and methods for video, social, and mobile communications.
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Pace University offers a unique master’s degree in social media and mobile marketing, designed to address the evolving impact of media on the marketplace. This STEM-designated program provides cutting-edge training in high-demand technology areas, allowing international students on student visas to benefit from an Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension of 24 months, totaling 36 months. The curriculum combines real-world projects with theoretical knowledge, giving students access to industry practitioners and guest speakers, and is tailored for recent graduates and experienced marketers looking to enhance their digital marketing skills. Students in the MS in Social Media and Mobile Marketing program at Pace University will develop expertise in digital marketing communications, implement and evaluate social media and mobile marketing strategies, and measure the effectiveness of digital campaigns. The program integrates strategy and science, focusing on creating, delivering, and managing brand communications.
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The Master of Arts in Emerging and Social Media at Sam Houston State University (SHSU) is designed for working professionals, offering flexibility through a fully online format with 7.5-week courses. The program consists of 10 courses taught by expert and diverse faculty, allowing students to graduate in as little as one year or at a slower pace to fit their schedules. With electives in digital advertising, podcasting, social media analytics, strategic storytelling, web and mobile development, digital entrepreneurship, and digital media management, students can immediately apply their knowledge to their careers, developing data-driven social media strategies and building a robust portfolio.
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The Master of Science in Digital Social Media program equips students with the critical foundation in the science and practice of digital social media necessary to shape the future of communication, new media technologies, and business. The curriculum emphasizes theory, skills, and strategic thinking essential for managing social media platforms, digital media, apps, and online communication. Students engage with expert faculty to build a personalized course of study, culminating in a portfolio-building capstone project. The program also emphasizes equity and representation through the Managing Complexity in Diverse Organizations course, preparing students to lead diverse teams across the communication and media landscape.
Visit program website →Degrees with a social media concentration
Arizona State University’s online Bachelor of Science in Technical Communication with a concentration in Social Media Management is tailored for those keen on mastering the latest social media platforms and strategies. This program equips students with the expertise needed to manage social media strategies and implementation across various industries. The curriculum allows students to engage in courses focusing on writing, design, management, podcasting, grant writing, data visualization, usability testing, and accessibility, all through a technical communication lens. The program emphasizes the creation of social media content for diverse audiences and purposes, preparing graduates to excel in roles such as social media specialists, user experience designers, and communication specialists. The degree offers practical, project-oriented experiences involving community-engaged projects, social media management tools, and various communication mediums. Courses cover topics like digital ethics, internet governance, reputation management, customer service, and strategic planning. Graduates will be well-prepared to deliver complex technical information through online platforms, enhancing their employability and career prospects in the fast-evolving field of social media management.
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The Marketing, Digital Marketing Concentration, B.B.A. at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) provides a comprehensive foundation in marketing with a strong emphasis on digital tools, crucial for modern businesses. Available in on-campus and hybrid formats, the program focuses on experiential learning, preparing students to address real-world challenges and drive ROI within any organization. Graduates are highly sought after across various sectors, thanks to their ability to utilize digital technologies to attract and retain customers. The curriculum includes courses in digital marketing analytics, social media, and website design, supplemented by a required Business Administration minor. The program’s structure ensures graduates are well-prepared for careers in digital marketing, social media, and beyond, with a comprehensive academic map and degree requirements designed to build a robust skill set in digital marketing strategies and tools.
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The Bachelor of Arts in Communication with a concentration in Emerging Media Strategy and Social Media at Maryville University is designed to equip students with essential skills to navigate and excel in communication and social media. Offered entirely online, this program integrates core communication principles with specialized courses in social media campaigns, advanced web design, strategic communication research, and crisis management. Students dive into emerging media trends and gain hands-on experience through internships, preparing them for careers as Social Media Specialists, Public Relations Specialists, Copywriters, or Digital Content Producers. With a curriculum grounded in real-world applications and taught by industry-experienced faculty like Dustin York, students not only develop proficiency in digital tools but also learn to create impactful communication strategies that meet contemporary business needs.
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The Master of Science in Applied Communication with a concentration in Social Media at Fitchburg State University offers a comprehensive online learning experience tailored to meet the demands of today’s communication landscape. This program equips students with advanced skills in social media strategy, content creation, and digital marketing, preparing them for pivotal roles in marketing, public relations, and corporate communications. Through a blend of theoretical insight and practical application, students learn to design and execute effective social media campaigns, leverage data analytics for strategic decision-making, and cultivate intercultural communication competencies crucial for global engagement. This program’s rigorous curriculum culminates in a capstone project, providing students the opportunity to apply their skills in real-world scenarios, further enhancing their readiness to excel as social media managers, communications specialists, and marketing directors in today’s competitive job market.
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The Social Media Marketing Cornell Certificate Program helps students develop a strategic approach to executing the most relevant digital marketing tactics using social media platforms. Students will learn to design social marketing strategies, create brand-centered content, structure influencer campaigns, and implement social listening and community management systems. By the end of the program, students will have a fully integrated social campaign ready to launch. The program offers the flexibility for students to learn on their schedule, with courses developed by Cornell faculty, facilitated discussions, and real-world projects. The program includes a year of free access to Symposium events featuring live Zoom sessions with Cornell faculty and industry experts. Upon completion, students will earn a Social Media Marketing Certificate from Cornell SC Johnson College of Business and 84 professional development hours.
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The Digital & Social Media Marketing Certificate at the College of DuPage equips students with essential skills to craft and execute effective digital marketing strategies. Through courses like Social Media Marketing, Introduction to Digital Marketing Analytics, and Digital Marketing, students gain proficiency in leveraging SEO techniques, creating impactful digital content, analyzing digital metrics, developing email campaigns, and implementing best practices for website optimization. This program also offers opportunities for students to earn industry-recognized certifications, ensuring they are well-prepared to enhance digital marketing initiatives and drive business growth in today’s competitive digital landscape.
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Berkeley College’s Digital and Social Media Certificate offers a comprehensive introduction to digital and social media. This program focuses on equipping students with foundational skills in utilizing social media for engagement and branding, as well as developing their digital presence to potentially collaborate with established brands as influencers. The 12 credits earned through this certificate can also be applied towards specific degree programs within the Larry L. Luing School of Business at Berkeley College, providing a pathway for further academic advancement and specialization in the field of marketing and digital media.
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The Online Certificate in Social Media Management at Georgetown University prepares mid-level professionals with essential skills to design, execute, and evaluate impactful social media campaigns. The program equips students with expertise in navigating major social platforms, crafting comprehensive strategies, creating engaging content, and measuring campaign effectiveness through ROI analysis. Taught by industry-seasoned faculty via live online or self-paced online formats, the certificate blends practical case studies, simulations, and real-time projects to ensure students develop a robust understanding of managing social media effectively in diverse organizational contexts. Upon completion, graduates emerge ready to enhance their careers as adept social media managers or team members, equipped with the latest tools and strategies to drive digital engagement and mitigate risks effectively.
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The Marketing with Concentration in Digital Marketing program offers foundational principles of marketing with a special emphasis on digital marketing, including social media, SEO, email marketing, and advanced tools. Available online or in person, the program is ideal for individuals pursuing careers in marketing, business professionals seeking formal training, and those looking to switch careers. Participants will learn essential skills such as brand management, integrated marketing communications, consumer market research, and influencer marketing. This certificate program, requiring no prior marketing experience, provides a comprehensive foundation in both traditional and digital marketing principles. The program is designed to equip participants with the knowledge to complement traditional advertising with digital strategies, leveraging the latest online tools and resources. It provides a robust education in marketing principles, research, and brand management, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to excel in the dynamic field of digital marketing.
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UMSL’s 12-credit graduate certificate gives working professionals a focused path through the practical side of digital and social media marketing, including web analytics, SEO, paid search, content creation, and platform strategy. Students can add CRM tools such as Salesforce and HubSpot, and the credits can apply toward an MBA.
Visit program website →Industry certifications
The Social Media Marketing Certification Course is designed to help participants become a social media expert by developing foundational skills to grow followers, engagement, and business results. This industry-recognized course, created in consultation with social media marketing strategists and practitioners, equips marketers with practical skills they can implement immediately for impactful results. Upon completing the course, students receive an industry-recognized certification, demonstrating their expertise in essential social marketing elements to clients and employers. To earn the Hootsuite Social Media Marketing Certification, students need to pass a 60-question online exam based on the course’s training videos, which cover topics such as creating social media strategies, optimizing profiles, social content marketing, and audience building. This certification also includes a permanent online certificate to showcase digital expertise, which can be linked to blogs, websites, or other online profiles.
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The Boot Camp Digital Social Media Marketing Master Certification is a rigorous program designed for professionals seeking expertise in social media marketing. Featuring over 42 hours of video content and access to 300+ instructional videos, the certification covers essential platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and more. Participants receive a year of access with updates, along with downloadable resources such as templates and checklists. Personalized support includes 1:1 office hours with instructors, monthly Q&A sessions, and membership in a private Facebook group for ongoing learning and networking. Bonus offerings include Crash Courses, bestselling book PDFs, and discounts totaling over $1400. Ideal for marketers, entrepreneurs, and business leaders, this certification allows flexible completion within a weekend or up to a year. Graduates earn an industry-accredited certificate, demonstrating mastery in social media strategy and execution.
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The Certified Digital Marketing Professional program offered by the Digital Marketing Institute equips participants with comprehensive skills to thrive in the fast-paced digital marketing landscape. This program combines cutting-edge digital marketing strategies with soft skills training, ensuring graduates can confidently craft and execute digital marketing campaigns from scratch. Key focus areas include social media marketing, content marketing, SEO, PPC advertising, email marketing, and web optimization. Participants also gain proficiency in leveraging AI tools for enhanced digital marketing strategies, reflecting industry trends and advancements.
Visit program website →How to choose a program
Start with accreditation. For degrees, confirm the school holds recognized institutional accreditation, and look for AACSB when the program sits in a business school. Then weigh format and cost against your schedule, and check that the curriculum covers current tools and paid social, not just theory. Whatever route you choose, build a portfolio of real campaigns as you learn, since that is what hiring managers actually evaluate. Comparing other paths? See digital marketing degrees, bootcamps, and what you can do with a digital marketing background.