Marketing as a discipline involves the study of how goods and services are advertised, distributed and sold. It also involves the anticipation of consumers' future needs and desires, determined by the use of market research methods.
You can begin your marketing studies by earning an AAS degree in marketing, learning skills such as the principles of selling, advertising and retailing, customer relations, business trends and marketing research strategies. This degree can equip you for successful entry into a retail career, or allow you to transfer midway into a bachelor's program in marketing.
At the bachelor's level, you'll flesh out the basic principles with on-the-job training opportunities and internships that will allow you to learn sales management techniques and gain first-hand observational knowledge of specific buyer behavior. You will also have the ability to design and administer your own market research tools and create your own marketing plans and strategies. Attention will also be paid to marketing in the global arena.
Graduate-level marketing programs, including the Master of Science in Marketing, Marketing MBA and graduate certificate in marketing, are recommended if you wish to take on the role of a marketing, promotion or public relations manager within your organization. Graduate marketing studies will concentrate on the theories and principles of modern marketing, particularly as they relate to the issues and challenges confronting today's industries. Decision-making and problem-solving skills will be emphasized, as these fall within the scope of the marketing manager's role.

















