Career roadmap
How to Become a Marketing Manager
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a marketing manager, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a marketing manager: (1) earn a degree, (2) work as a marketing specialist, (3) lead campaigns, (4) earn certifications, (5) advance. Most people need about 4 years plus 5+ years of experience. BLS lists “bachelor's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a marketing manager
Earn a degree
Marketing, business or communications.
Work as a marketing specialist
Learn channels and analytics.
Lead campaigns
Own projects and results.
Earn certifications
Build digital and strategy skills.
Advance
Become a marketing manager, director or CMO.
Education and training requirements
A bachelor’s degree in marketing, business or communications is typical, plus several years of marketing experience. Some managers have MBAs.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | 5 years or more |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 4 years plus 5+ years of experience |
Certifications and licenses
- AMA Professional Certified Marketer (PCM): American Marketing Association credential.
- Google Ads and Analytics certifications: Digital advertising and analytics credentials.
- HubSpot Inbound Marketing: Inbound marketing certification.
- Product Marketing certifications: Courses from the Product Marketing Alliance.
Skills to build now
Start with marketing strategy, digital marketing, and budget management, and practice leadership and creativity. Learning the marketing manager vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Marketing Coordinator or Specialist: Execute campaigns.
- Marketing Manager: Lead programs.
- Marketing Director: Lead teams and strategy.
- VP of Marketing or CMO: Lead marketing for a company.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Marketing Manager training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do marketing managers need a degree?
Usually a bachelor’s degree.
How long does it take to become a marketing manager?
Most people need about 4 years plus 5+ years of experience of training. A bachelor’s degree in marketing, business or communications is typical, plus several years of marketing experience. Some managers have MBAs.
Do you need a degree to be a marketing manager?
Usually. BLS lists a bachelor’s degree as typical, plus years of experience. Many marketing managers rise from specialist roles in digital marketing, communications or sales.
What certifications are available for marketing managers?
Common credentials include AMA Professional Certified Marketer (PCM), Google Ads and Analytics certifications, HubSpot Inbound Marketing, and Product Marketing certifications. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 11-2021 (Marketing managers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Marketing managers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.