By Jong Eun Jung
After wrapping up college, some people look to graduate programs to develop more advanced business skills, prepare them for marketing careers, and gain an advantage in the job market. Two of the most popular graduate programs for people interested in marketing careers are the Master of Marketing and Master of Data Analytics. To help prospective students decide which degree is right for them, Suzanne Feinstein, the Director of the Master of Marketing Program at Vanderbilt Business, mentions 4 things to consider when deciding between these programs.
Suzanne Feinstein
What are Master of Marketing and Master of Data Analytics Degrees?
If you have a STEM background, a Master of Data Analytics may be a good option for you. “A Master of Data Analytics is a specialized degree that is designed to help students learn how to apply advanced analytics to business challenges. It often requires a strong mathematical focus,” Feinstein explained. On the other hand, a Master of Marketing is open to recent graduates with any background or degree because it introduces them to the field of marketing. “The Master of Marketing is well suited for applicants who are looking for a way to gain marketing skills and concepts quickly,” she said.
What are the curriculums like?
A Master of Data Analytics focuses on developing expertise in using tools and techniques to analyze and present data. If you enroll in such a program, you’ll learn skills such as advanced statistics, data management, and data presentation. A Master of Marketing student does learn data analysis, but the focus is on gaining a comprehensive knowledge of the marketing field. In a Master of Marketing program, you will take classes on all facets of marketing, including (but not limited to) advertising and social media, product development, and brand management. “A Master of Marketing degree helps students learn the fundamental theories and principles of marketing, along with the analytical skills to succeed in a variety of marketing careers,” Feinstein said.
What are your goals?
With the recent surge of interest in big data and digital technology, many employers are seeking people with knowledge in data analytics. So if you’re interested in learning advanced analysis techniques and ultimately getting hired for a position that works with data, a Master of Data Analytics can help you gain those skills. If you are set on a marketing career and interested in experiencing different aspects of marketing, a Master of Marketing is a good option that will let you explore different career paths within the field. “Applicants to our program are excited and passionate about pursuing a career in marketing,” Feinstein said.
What are Master of Marketing and Master of Data Analytics career paths?
Some Master of Data Analytics graduates are employed as marketing analysts and managers, while others take on less marketing-heavy positions such as software developers, data scientists, and operations research analysts. Meanwhile, Master of Marketing graduates enter a variety of entry-level roles in the marketing field. “Our graduates’ titles include marketing manager, digital marketing analyst, assistant brand manager, consultant, account executive, content and social media coordinator, data specialist, business analyst, and more,” Feinstein said.
If you’re still uncertain about which option is right for you, or would like more information about each program, contact the admissions officers of the business schools that you are interested in: they will be more than happy to help you decide which graduate program is more suitable to your interests and needs. If you would like to learn more about the Vanderbilt Master of Marketing program, reach out to Suzanne Feinstein.
