Embarking on a graduate degree is a huge decision and you ultimately want it to pay off ... in terms of salary, title, career goals or even personal happiness. Here are some of the top "Is it worth it?" questions we hear from prospective students, and how each of our programs measure up. Also, see how WVU's online marketing communications graduate programs rank among comparable programs at other institutions.
Considerations |
Data Marketing Communications |
Digital Marketing Communications |
Integrated Marketing Communications |
SalaryWill I make enough to support my lifestyle and pay my bills? |
On average, those working in Data Marketing Communications have an annual salary of $73,960. Several professions in this industry have the opportunity to earn more than $100,000 annually. |
On average, those working in Digital or Integrated Marketing Communications have an annual salary of $63,920. Several professions in this industry have the opportunity to earn more than $100,000 annually. |
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Career ProspectsCan I see myself doing the jobs this major leads to? |
Data marketers are both analytical and creative which makes them one of the most desirable assets for a company. A data marketing role is a good fit if you like solving puzzles, enjoy storytelling, or have a niche with numbers. Here are some common jobs:
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Digital marketing is shaping the way we consume information, make our purchase decisions, and interact with brands. Are you a digital enthusiast with the ability to adapt to change and innovate? If so, digital marketing communications might be for you. Jobs in this industry are:
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Integrated Marketing Communications is a versatile degree that allows grads to work in nearly any industry, sector or field. Here are some of the job titles you can hold with an IMC degree:
In addition, data marketing communications roles can be fulfilled remotely. In fact, the marketing communications industry is one of the top leaders in remote work as many agencies and firms have learned to evolve and adapt. |
Job LocationsWill I have to move to find work? If so, where? |
Marketing Communications roles exist in every industry all over the world, and more and more companies are offering remote work options. In the last 6 months, LinkedIn reports that remote marketing roles have increased by 177%. | ||
Industry GrowthWhat happens 5, 10 or 20 years from now? |
This is a highly sought-after and rapidly growing role in the marketing communications industry. This industry is predicted to grow 22% (much faster than average) over the next ten years. |
Digital marketing communications is one of the most rapidly growing industries as technology continues to evolve and thrive. According to the latest projections, digital advertising revenue will surpass 700 billion U.S. dollars by 2025. That is a major increase from 2022 when the industry was valued at $153 billion. |
This industry is expected to grow between 10% and 14% by 2030 which is as fast as average and faster than average. Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics |
Job SatisfactionAre marcom professionals happy with their jobs? What is the work-life balance? |
Working in Marketing Communications offers upward mobility and the flexibility of a work-life balance, but this is an industry that involves many responsibilities and complexities. |
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Education CredentialsHow important is a master's degree in this industry? |
Because this is such a competitive industry with highly sought-after roles, 77% of those working in Data Marketing Communications have a master's degree. Source: Stepping Blocks |
31% of those in digital marketing communications roles have an advanced degree. Digital marketing is ever-changing, so an advanced degree is one way to stay ahead of trends and set yourself apart in the job market. Source: Stepping Blocks |
Because this is a growing and competitive industry, 53% of those working in Integrated Marketing Communications have a Master’s Degree. Source: Stepping Blocks |
Program |
Format(s) |
Total Credits |
Tuition |
Completion |
| Columbia University Strategic Communication | On-Campus or Hybrid | 36 | $84,456 | 1 Year |
| Eastern Michigan University College of Business | Online | 36 | $26,026 | 2 Years (average) |
| Florida International University College of Communication | On-Campus or Online | 30 | $25,000 | 1 Year |
| George Washington University School of Media and Public Affairs | On-Campus | 36 | $63,540 | 2+ Years |
| Georgetown University School of Continuing Studies | On-Campus or Online | 33 | $48,939 | 2 - 5 Years |
| Marist College School of Communications and the Arts | Online | 30 | $26,100 | 1.5 - 2 Years |
| New York University School of Professional Studies | On-Campus | 42 | $96,446 | 2 Years |
| Northwestern University Medill School | On-Campus or Online | 39 | $67,600 | 2 Years |
| Quinnipiac University Online Programs | Online | 30 | $28,950 | 1 - 2 Years |
| Syracuse University Newhouse | Online or Blended | 36 | $64,812 | 15 Months |
| West Virginia University Reed College of Media | Online | 30 | $24,600 | 1 - 2 Years or Longer |