Career paths in marketing
Marketing roles span many specialisms, including:
Digital & social media marketing
- Digital Marketing Executive
- Social Media Manager
- Content Strategist
- Email Marketing Specialist
- PPC/Google Ads Specialist
- SEO Executive
Brand, creative & advertising
- Brand Manager
- Creative Strategist
- Advertising Account Executive
- Copywriter
- Campaign or Design Coordinator
Data, research & strategy
- Marketing Analyst
- Consumer Insights Researcher
- CRM Data Specialist
- UX Research Assistant
- Marketing Strategist
Public relations & communications
- PR Officer
- Communications Executive
- Media Relations Coordinator
- Events & Campaigns Manager
Commercial & business roles
- Product Manager
- Business Development Executive
- Sales & Partnerships Manager
- Customer Experience (CX) Specialist
Marketing graduates can work in sectors such as fashion, technology, entertainment, healthcare, charity, tourism, finance, and beyond.
Alternative careers where marketing skills shine
The mix of creativity, communication, and digital expertise opens doors to roles such as:
- Content production (video, podcasts, multimedia)
- E-commerce and online retail
- Entrepreneurship or freelance marketing
- Recruitment marketing and talent branding
- Community and audience engagement
- NGO, charity, or campaign-focused roles
Skills you’ll gain on a marketing degree
Marketing degrees develop a strong combination of creative, analytical, and practical business skills, including:
Creative & communication skills
- Copywriting and storytelling
- Visual communication and brand messaging
- Campaign planning and content creation
- Social media strategy
Analytical & data skills
- Understanding consumer behaviour
- Market and competitor research
- Data interpretation and reporting
- Using tools like Google Analytics, CRM systems, and social analytics platforms
Business & strategic skills
- Brand development and positioning
- Audience segmentation
- Project and campaign management
- Budgeting and commercial awareness
Professional skills
- Teamwork
- Problem-solving and critical thinking
- Presentation and pitching skills
- Working with clients, agencies, and stakeholders
These skills can take you far beyond traditional marketing roles. So you’ll have the ability to flex as your career grows.
Graduate outcomes and salaries
Typical starting salaries sit around £24,000–£30,000. Experienced digital marketers, analysts, and brand executives can earn £35,000–£45,000. Senior specialists, marketing managers, strategists, and agency leaders can earn £50,000.1 While commercial and leadership roles offer even higher progression potential.
Further study and professional development
Many graduates enhance their skills through:
- Postgraduate degrees in digital marketing, branding, data analytics, or business
- CIM or IDM qualifications
- Industry certifications (Google Ads, GA4, HubSpot, Meta Blueprint, SEO courses)
- Building creative portfolios through freelance work or internships
Do you need a degree to work in marketing?
There are alternative routes into marketing, such as apprenticeships or experience-based pathways. But a degree gives you a strong foundation, industry credibility, and broader long-term career options. Find out more in our 'Do I need a degree to work in marketing?' FAQ.
