8 Reasons Why You Should Get a Digital Marketing Graduate Certificate

In a society where technology is constantly evolving, it should come as no surprise to hear that advertising and marketing has largely shifted to online platforms. Industries and businesses all around the world are adopting digital marketing as their new way of reaching consumers to increase brand awareness. 

With this new way of marketing, it is important for those in the industry to stay up-to-date and current with the ever-changing digital platforms – one of the best ways to do this is by getting a digital marketing certificate. 

What is digital marketing? 

Put simply, digital marketing refers to any marketing that takes place on digital platforms through electronic devices. To better understand exactly what digital marketing is, think of it as a mix between digital media and marketing. 

These marketing methods are often seen on social media platforms such as, but not limited to, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Having the ability to market on social media sites is a huge advantage  for businesses. Unlike with print ads, consumers now have the opportunity to interact with digital marketing ads through post shares, likes, and comments – marketing is no longer a “one-way” communication. 

While traditional marketing typically consists of print advertisements, billboards, radio ads, and television commercials, digital marketing involves a combination of the following methods:

• Search engine optimization (SEO)
• Search engine marketing (SEM)
• Email marketing
• Pay-per-click advertising (PPC)
• Content marketing
• Social media marketing (SMM)
• Affiliate marketing     

8 Reasons why you should get a digital marketing certificate

With a certificate you’ll be able to demonstrate that you’ve mastered certain skills, as well as prove that you have a strong desire to grow and learn in your field. See how to being the journey to your dream job through these advantages of a marketing graduate certificate:

1) Wide range of career opportunities

One of the best aspects about digital marketing is that almost every field uses it. A digital marketing certificate won’t limit you to one area of work, or one type of job. Instead you’ll have a myriad of options to choose from that all prefer someone with an understanding of digital marketing. 

Set your goals high when it comes to where you want to work. Whether that’s being employed by Facebook, Amazon, or Twitter, or getting your dream role at The Boeing Company, IBM Corp, or Zen Doggo, you can find employment opportunities almost everywhere you look. 

At NJIT, many students who earn a digital marketing certificate go into roles such as corporate communications director, marketing communications manager, senior communications specialist, and human resources manager.  

2) Increase your earning potential 

Believe it or not, digital marketing is still a new and growing field. Between this and the shift of consumer behavior to online platforms, there is actually a higher demand for digital marketing professionals than ever before. Companies are now trying to focus their marketing efforts on digital platforms, which means they’re seeking – and willing to pay – digital marketing talent. 

This demand for professionals who are adept in both the creative and business side of digital marketing is leading to higher starting salaries for those who fit the bill. The average starting salary for NJIT students who complete the online digital marketing design graduate certificate is $57,500. When you have a specific skill set that companies are looking for, you’re actually in a better place to negotiate a salary increase.  

3) Boost your confidence 

Earning your marketing graduate certificate means more than simply watching some “how to” videos or following along with online training. While obtaining the certificate, you’ll have to pass tests and complete practice knowledge assessments to ensure you have a true understanding of the skills being taught. Once you finish and have the certificate in hand, any doubt you have about your abilities should begin to vanish. 

4) Enhance your authorization and skills

Completing a digital marketing certificate improves your credibility by letting employers know that you are deeply knowledgeable about the field. The certificate acts as proof that you have studied a variety of concepts regarding digital marketing, making it easier to gain the trust of companies and business.   

Because the field of digital marketing is still evolving, there are constantly new things to learn. Earning your graduate certificate gives you the ability to stay up to date with the latest advancements, while putting those new valuable skills to use through practical experience. An expanded skill set can help prepare you for different areas of digital marketing whether that be SEO, social media, or email marketing.

5) Gain a competitive edge

When applying for jobs you always want to think of ways that will separate you from the other applicants. Earning a graduate certificate can set you apart from others and prove to the employer that you have a thorough understanding of the skills and concepts necessary to succeed. 

Even if you’re coming in as an entry-level employee, you’ll have the competitive advantage due to your advanced knowledge of up-to-date information that other marketing professionals may lack. A graduate certificate can also tell the employer that you're constantly striving to improve and keep up with current trends to enhance marketing efforts – you’ll wow the company before you’re even hired!

6) Be more engaged with your work

According to Gallup, in June 2020, the engagement rate of US employees hit a new low of 31%. This means that 69% of employees are not engaged with their work. Low engagement rate typically coincides with workplace burnout and a high turnover rate. You can avoid feeling burnt out and unhappy at work by consistently engaging with what you’re doing. 

One of the best ways to stay engaged on the job is by doing assignments and projects that not only interest you, but also allow room for growth. Learning new skills is a great way to stay engaged as you can apply key concepts and skills that you’re studying to your everyday work. With a solid foundation from a graduate certificate, you’ll execute projects better and bring a new level of creativity to the workplace.

7) Stay competitive in the marketplace

Gaining knowledge about digital marketing and earning a graduate certificate isn’t just for recent grads, entry level professionals, and those looking to make a career change. Because digital marketing is ever-changing, new methods are constantly evolving and being created. 

A digital marketing certificate can be a game changer for professionals who are already working in the field. You’ll be able to familiarize yourself with these new concepts while sharpening your skills, and help bring innovative ideas and methods to your company. 

8) Cost-effective and time-savvy 

Half the battle of becoming a professional in your desired field is having enough time and money. Luckily, you can earn your digital marketing graduate certificate on your own time and without breaking the bank. Many universities offer digital marketing graduate certificate programs online, giving you the flexibility to choose courses that fit with your schedule. Instead of spending time traveling to and from campus, fill those areas studying and perfecting your new digital media techniques. 

Online learning for students makes it easy to advance one’s skill set while saving money. NJIT’s 12 credit digital marketing certificate program also offers financial aid options, making it even more affordable to you.   

Become a digital marketing expert with NJIT

Digital marketing methods are becoming increasingly more popular and there is no doubt that there are many job opportunities for marketing professionals. You can set yourself up for success by ensuring that you’re familiar with all of these new digital tools to help improve the marketing efforts of different businesses. 

The competitive edge and knowledge a digital marketing graduate certificate provides can help land you your dream job. View the curriculum and learn more about NJIT’s certificate in digital marketing to start your application process and become a leader in the digital marketing field.