Social media marketing certificates are now commonplace in this digital world of content strategy. A social media marketing college certificate allows students to specialize in a wide range of career paths. You could become a digital marketer or influencer with the successful completion of a certificate program.
To kickstart your career opportunities, you’ll need to learn content marketing fundamentals like email marketing and engaging content creation. You’ll also need in-demand skills to create a social media presence for potential customers.
A certificate program gives you social media marketing skills to run effective advertising campaigns. If your business goals include a digital marketing career, we do a deep dive into social media marketing certificate programs.
What Is a Social Media Marketing Certificate College Program?
A social media marketing certificate college program is a short program that teaches focused digital marketing courses. The courses cover digital advertising, content marketing, search engine optimization, web design, and animation.
The courses are often not longer than a year, and many schools offer self-paced learning with online programs. In some cases, students take practical courses to help them gain hands-on experience in the field.
What’s the Difference Between a College Social Media Marketing Certificate and Professional Certification in Social Media Marketing?
The main difference between a college social media marketing certificate and a professional certification is that the latter results from an assessment process. Taking a certificate program does not lead to professional certification. You need to take certification exams by an independent organization to prove that you have social media marketing and advertising skills.
Social Media Marketing College Certificate vs Social Media Marketing Certification: Key Differences
| Social Media Marketing Certificate | Social Media Marketing Certification |
|---|---|
| Does not require experience | Requires some experience |
| Gateway to a degree | Doesn’t lead to a degree |
| Focuses on educational standards | Focuses on industry standards |
How Long Does It Take To Get a Social Media Marketing Certificate at College?
It takes approximately one year to complete a social media marketing certificate at college. Sometimes, you can complete a certificate course in just six months. It depends on the number of credit hours required in the program.
Best Social Media Marketing Certificate Undergraduate Programs
| School | Program Name | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Arkansas State University | Certificate in Social Media Management | $258 per credit |
| BYU-Pathway Worldwide | Certificate in Social Media Marketing | $79.00 per credit |
| California State University-East Bay | Certificate in Social Media Marketing | $2,000 total |
| Cornell University | Certificate in Social Media Marketing | $3,600 total |
| Judson University | Certificate in Social Media Marketing | $1,240 per credit |
| McHenry County College | Certificate in Social Media Marketing | $2,408 total |
| North Shore Community College | Certificate in Social Media Marketing | $223 per credit |
| Oakland University | Certificate in Digital Marketing | $1,350 total |
| Pierce College | Certificate in Social Media Marketing | $133 per credit |
| University of North Dakota | Certificate in Social Media Strategies in Communication | $385 per credit |
Best Undergraduate Social Media Marketing Certificate Programs: Explained
The best undergraduate social media marketing certificate programs offer digital skills to work in different industries. This section expands on the social media marketing courses listed in the table above. Each learning path provides college credit and a certificate of completion. All information was sourced directly from each school’s website.
This Arkansas State University program prepares students to work in every branch of digital marketing, such as digital ad campaigns, social media campaigns, and content development. Students use different tools to create eye-catching content. Students also learn to schedule, design, and use marketing tactics and strategies to create a meaningful social media marketing campaign for clients.
Certificate in Social Media Management Details
- Cost: $258/credit
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Transcripts
This digital marketing certificate program from Brigham Young University prepares students for a career in social media. Students can look for entry-level social media marketing jobs as a social media manager, specialist, coordinator, and a social media content creator. You can even become a small business owner. The admission requirements include ties to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
Certificate in Social Media Marketing Details
- Cost: $79.00/credit
- Length: 16 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Transcripts, English proficiency
This certificate program from California State University-East Bay offers intensive social marketing training. It covers topics like brand building and reputation management. Students learn digital strategies and communication skills and follow recent marketing trends through interactive online courses. It is a flexible program for working professionals or parents.
Certificate in Social Media Marketing Details
- Cost: $2,000 total
- Length: 6 courses over 4 months
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: N/A
- Other Requirements: N/A
Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, introduces students to digital marketing tactics to create brand-centered content. Students examine best practices for social media platforms to develop a solid social media marketing strategy. Students will be able to identify user-generated content and organize an influencer campaign to build a brand.
Certificate in Social Media Marketing Details
- Cost: $3,600 total
- Length: 3 months
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: N/A
- Other Requirements: N/A
This Judson University program is ideal for those who want to use modern skills for social media advertising and marketing. The curriculum begins with the basics of marketing efforts and evolves into how to carry out social media campaigns and strategies. Students also learn the basics of content creation, research, growth, and strategy for social marketing.
Certificate in Social Media Marketing Details
- Cost: $1,240/credit
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: In-person
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Contact admissions
This McHenry County College program prepares individuals for entry-level roles requiring marketing skills or business management knowledge. Students learn the strategic use of various social platforms and how to use marketing analytics and campaign development tools. It is a hands-on certificate with a flexible schedule.
Certificate in Social Media Marketing Details
- Cost: $2,408 total (in-state); $8,905 total (out-of-state)
- Length: 18 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Transcripts, SAT/ACT scores
The North Shore Community College certificate program introduces students to a curriculum offering hands-on experience. Students build critical thinking skills to meet the demands of an ever-changing marketing field. It is an excellent program for professionals and business owners who want to learn new marketing skills or pursue a career in social media marketing.
Certificate in Social Media Marketing Details
- Cost: $223/credit (in-state); $455/credit (out-of-state)
- Length: 21 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: N/A (open enrollment)
Oakland University in Michigan offers this program that focuses on online digital marketing strategy and measurement. The practical program is updated constantly with topics such as Google Ads, Facebook Ads, Google Analytics, SEO, and content marketing. Students learn digital marketing skills to take up entry-level roles.
Certificate in Digital Marketing Details
- Cost: $1,350 total (on demand); $1,400 total (instructor-led)
- Length: 16 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Transcripts, 2.5 GPA
Pierce College in Washington offers a comprehensive training certificate for social media marketers. Students gain new skills, knowledge, and abilities to work as online marketing specialists. The one-year program has a portfolio-based curriculum that involves a capstone project.
Certificate in Social Media Marketing Details
- Cost: $133/credit
- Length: 39 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: N/A
This University of North Dakota program teaches students strategic communication, content creation, and online reporting. It is ideal for professionals who want to run their own business or use social media to build a brand. The curriculum gives hands-on training in digital tools for social media marketing.
Certificate in Social Media Strategies in Communication Details
- Cost: $385/credit
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: Online, in person
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Transcripts, 3.5 GPA for immediate acceptance
Social Media Marketing College Certificate Program vs Social Media Marketing Associate Degree
There are notable differences between social media marketing college certificate programs and social media marketing associate degrees. The most common one is the program length.
Certificates take six months to a year to complete, while associate degree programs typically take two years. This is because the latter doesn’t only focus on topics relating to social media marketing but also general courses for a well-rounded education.
- Time commitment. Associate degree programs require more time to complete. Full-time students need two years to complete the program. Certificates, on the other hand, require less than a year.
- Coursework. Associate degrees offer more depth than certificates, including elective and core modules. Certificates are subject-focused and teach practical skills for immediate entry into the job market.
- Requirements. The requirements to get a certificate sometimes differ. For instance, associate degree programs may require essays, transcripts, and high GPAs, while certificate programs are often on open enrollment.
- Price. The cost of certificates may not necessarily be lower than that of associate degrees. However, the number of courses required significantly reduces the cost. Online students attending a certificate course are often charged a total flat rate.
- Job Opportunities. Some employers may prefer associate degree holders to certificate holders. However, this does not apply to all employers because skill is the main focus in these industries.
Best Online Associate Degrees
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Best Associate Degrees
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Is an Undergraduate Social Media Marketing Certificate Worth It?
An undergraduate social media marketing certificate is worth it because it provides knowledge and skill for a social and digital marketing career. The industry has grown over the years and has the potential for more growth. Social media marketing college certificates can help you navigate a career in this emerging field.
Best Social Media Marketing Certificate Graduate Programs
| School | Program Name | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | Graduate Certificate in Digital Audience Strategy | $657 per credit |
| Bowling Green State University | Graduate Certificate in Social & Interactive Media | $536 per credit |
| Kennesaw State University | Graduate Certificate in Digital & Social Media | $383 per credit |
| New Jersey Institute of Technology | Graduate Certificate in Social Media Essentials | $1,082 per credit |
| Northeastern University | Graduate Certificate in Social Media for Organizational Performance | $14,000 total |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Graduate Certificate in Social Media | $627 per credit |
| Texas Tech University | Graduate Certificate in Advanced Digital & Social Media | $1,284 per 3 credits |
| University of Florida | Graduate Certificate in Social Media | $449 per credit |
| University of Nebraska-Lincoln | Graduate Certificate in Public Relations and Social Media | $357 per credit |
| West Virginia University | Graduate Certificate in Digital and Social Media | $820 per credit |
Best Graduate Social Media Marketing Certificate Programs Explained
Graduate social media marketing certificates are also available for those who want to become a digital marketing expert without studying for a master’s degree program. It is a shorter option with an intensive curriculum that may increase your chances of securing a higher-paying job in social media marketing.
This Arizona State University program teaches professionals to use audience data to create compelling content for social media, websites, and search engines. Students learn to identify the target audience and get hands-on experience with modern industry tools.
Graduate Certificate in Digital Audience Strategy Details
- Cost: $657/credit
- Length: 15 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Resume, transcripts, 3.0 cumulative GPA
This graduate certificate from Bowling Green State University includes theoretical and practical training on social and interactive media. The curriculum deals with strategic communication and provides a conceptual grounding in interactive and social media. The training imparts some insight into commercial and practical uses of social media.
Graduate Certificate in Social & Interactive Media Details
- Cost: $536/credit (in-state); $869/credit (out-of-state)
- Length: Not stated
- Learning Format: In-person
- Minimum Education: Baccalaureate degree
- Other Requirements: Transcripts, recommendation letters, resume, statement of purpose
This online certificate program offered by Kennesaw State University is ideal for working professionals who want to advance their careers or expand their knowledge of social media marketing. The broad curriculum encompasses both digital and social media. Classes are taken in seven-week sessions to give students time to focus on other important tasks.
Graduate Certificate in Digital and Social Media Details
- Cost: $383/credit
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Transcripts, personal statement, English proficiency (if applicable)
This online certificate program from the New Jersey Institute of Technology allows working professionals to update their skills for a new or current role. It prepares professionals to take social media roles in government agencies, corporations, and small businesses. Modules include advanced information design, analyzing social networks, and research methods for information design.
Graduate Certificate in Social Media Essentials Details
- Cost: $1,082/credit
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: 2.8 cumulative GPA
Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts, offers this six to 12-month program in social media management. The course looks at the part social media plays in supporting the performance of a business or organization. Students will experiment with various tools on social platforms. The flexible online program includes three general requirements and a choice of seven electives.
Graduate Certificate in Social Media for Organizational Performance Details
- Cost: $14,000 total
- Length: 13 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Statement of purpose, resume, transcripts, English proficiency (if applicable)
Southern New Hampshire University offers this online graduate certificate in social media. Students learn to use social media to achieve business goals and create effective strategies for a target audience. The curriculum offers valuable tools to develop effective social media marketing strategies and campaigns.
Graduate Certificate in Social Media Details
- Cost: $627/credit
- Length: 15 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Transcripts
This Texas Tech University program is ideal for communication professionals who want to learn to use social media to promote businesses and brands. The online program teaches new industry tools and techniques to working professionals.
Graduate Certificate in Advanced Digital & Social Media Details
- Cost: $1,284/3 credits
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Resume, cover letter, personal statement, samples of professional work (if applicable), transcripts
The University of Florida’s graduate certificate program offers professionals an opportunity to learn new skills to advance their careers. The curriculum covers social media platforms and other areas of mass communication techniques and technologies. It comprises four courses, and students can complete them within two semesters.
Graduate Certificate in Social Media Details
- Cost: $449/credit
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Transcripts
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln allows students to transfer 12 credits to a journalism and mass communication master’s degree program. The graduate certificate enhances students' understanding of communication platform practices. It is completely online and flexible to allow working professionals to attend classes.
Graduate Certificate in Public Relations and Social Media Details
- Cost: $357/credit (in-state); $676/credit (out-of-state)
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Transcripts, English proficiency (if applicable)
West Virginia University’s Reed College of Media offers this graduate certificate. The curriculum focuses on digital storytelling, web metrics, social media and marketing, and digital video production. The versatile program also covers integrated marketing tactics such as SEO, web analytics, and social media tracking for campaign assessment.
Graduate Certificate in Digital and Social Media Details
- Cost: $820/credit
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Transcripts, resume, personal statement, letters of recommendation (optional), English proficiency (if applicable)
Social Media Marketing Graduate Certificate Program vs Social Media Marketing Master’s Degree
A few distinguishing factors exist between a social media marketing graduate certificate program and a master’s degree. A graduate certificate program allows students to determine if a master’s degree is ideal for them. It is also a quick way for students to sharpen their skills in a new field.
- Number of credits. Most graduate certificates require 12 to 14 credits to complete. For master’s degrees, students must complete 30–36 credits to get the degree.
- Duration of the program. In most cases, you can complete a certificate program in two semesters or one year. Typically, full-time students take two years to complete a master’s degree.
- Credit transfers. You can transfer credits from a graduate certificate program to a master’s degree program in a similar field.
- Employer preferences. Some employers may prefer a candidate with a master’s degree over one with a graduate certificate. A master’s degree provides a broader education than a certificate. However, a graduate certificate in a focused area is also a valuable addition to your resume in a job search.
- Hands-on training. Both graduate certificate and master’s degree programs offer hands-on training, but the latter is often more research-based. A master’s program also focuses on managerial and people skills.
Best Online Master’s Degrees
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Best Master’s Degrees
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Is a Graduate Social Media Marketing Certificate Worth It?
Yes, a graduate social media marketing certificate is worth it for professionals who want to advance their careers in a specific focus area. It is not only affordable but also flexible for most students. If you plan on continuing your education later, you can transfer the credit hours you’ve earned to a master’s program.
Social Media Marketing Certificate Program Coursework
Social media marketing certificate programs require 12 to 15 credits to complete. Students may need to take four to six courses, depending on the program. The courses may vary since social media marketing is a broad subject. However, the courses below are common in most programs.
Introduction to Digital Marketing
Students learn digital marketing concepts to harness this tool as a business content marketing strategy. Students will also learn to use modern digital marketing tools in practical programs.
Search Engine Optimization
This course is the backbone of social media marketing. It introduces students to SEO and how they can use it to improve websites, increase organic ranking, and drive more traffic. This course also provides insight into how to develop an effective SEO strategy.
Social Media Marketing
This course teaches students about various tools used in social media marketing as a whole. The course includes topics like keyword research and other useful tools for search engine optimization.
Content Marketing
Students learn how to use content marketing to reach the right audience. Students will create engaging content in blog posts, entertaining GIFs, or even full-length videos. Students also learn how to distribute the content they have created and ensure it reaches the right audience.
Keyword Research
Keyword research is important for search engine optimization. Students learn to use different tools for keyword research to ensure that websites gain organic traffic.
Best Online College Courses for Credit
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What Can You Do With a Social Media Marketing Certificate from College?
With a social media marketing certificate from college, you can become a digital marketer, work as a social media coordinator, a social media community moderator, or a social media specialist. Specialists deal with specific areas like SEO and business strategy.
Best Social Media Marketing Jobs and Careers With a Certificate
| Job Role | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Public Relations Manager | $119,860 |
| Market Research Analyst | $63,920 |
| Advertising, Promotions, and Marketing Manager | $60,000 |
| Social Media Marketing Specialist | $58,042 |
| Social Media Manager | $53,049 |
Best Social Media Marketing Certificate Jobs and Careers: Explained
The best social media marketing certificate jobs include public relations specialists, public relations managers, and market research specialists. Find out more about these jobs and careers below.
Public relations, or PR managers, are media relations professionals. These experts are generally responsible for planning and developing materials for brands or client image enhancement.
- Average Salary: $119,860
- Job Outlook: 13% from 2020 to 2030
- Required Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree, 5 years or more work experience
Market research analysts gather and analyze data on competitors and consumers. These experts conduct studies on market conditions to predict the success of a service or product.
- Average Salary: $63,920
- Job Outlook: 22% from 2020 to 2030
- Required Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree
Advertising managers create content for campaigns. In the social media context, these experts research, plan, and organize campaigns on social media platforms targeting a specific audience.
- Average Salary: $60,000
- Job Outlook: 10% from 2020 to 2030
- Required Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree
Social media marketing specialists develop strategies for social media campaigns. They also incorporate search engine optimization and identify the target audience through competitive research.
- Average Salary: $58,042
- Job Outlook: 10% from 2020 to 2030
- Required Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree
Social media managers monitor social media networks for organizations and the digital marketing KPIs. These professionals also monitor sales goals, budgets, dashboards, and online behavior.
- Average Salary: $53,049
- Job Outlook: 10% from 2020 to 2030
- Required Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree
Should I Also Get a Social Media Marketing Certification?
Yes, you should get a social media marketing certificate if you want to pursue a career in digital marketing. This growing field has many applications in various industries. There is also increasing growth potential in this field.
Best Social Media Marketing Certifications
- Digital Marketing Professional. This digital marketing certification program offers a course and an examination to ensure that professionals can conceptualize and execute digital marketing strategies.
- Content Marketing Institute Online Certification. The Content Marketing Institute has an online certification offered through its CMI University. The institute offers courses and certification. Courses include planning, story, audience, and process.
- Meta Certified Digital Marketing Associate. This certification is for entry-level marketers. It proves that these marketers are knowledgeable about Facebook ads and marketing.
- Online Marketing Certified Professional (OMCP®). This certification demonstrates verified experience, extensive training, and knowledge of online marketing.
- Directive Consulting Institute Digital Marketing Certifications. This certification also includes SEO, PCC, CRO, and analytics courses. Each of these tools comes in handy for digital marketers. The certification proves you have trustworthy marketing knowledge.
Best Professional Certifications
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Is a College Certificate for Social Media Marketing Worth It?
Yes, a college certificate for social media marketing is worth it because it’s affordable and offers a faster path into the social media marketing job market. A certificate program teaches you the fundamentals of social media marketing, from management to search engine optimization and content marketing.
Social Media Marketing Certificates FAQ
The Facebook social media marketing certification is worth it because it proves to potential employers that you can create a Facebook marketing strategy that works. This can increase your chances of getting social media marketing roles.
Yes, a social media marketing certificate is worth it because it shows that you have foundational skills and knowledge in the field. It will build your digital marketing skills and advance your digital marketing career.
It takes about a year to get a social media marketing certificate. Most programs require 12 to 15 credits, which you can take in two semesters.
With a social media marketing certificate, you can work as a digital marketer, social media specialist, content creator, and market research analyst.
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