Top Affordable Online Marketing Programs in Texas: Boost Your Career Without Breaking the Bank

Texas hosts one of the most developed economies worldwide and keeps climbing the global economic rankings. The Texas Workforce Commission reveals that in August 2024, there were 71,600 new private sector jobs, which include professional and business services. This event is also responsible for the state’s continuous growth. 

A robust economy needs well-educated workers. In terms of education, marketing is an in-demand specialization in Texas. Also boasting an excellent higher education network, the state offers a broad selection of traditional and online programs. For the 2021-22 school year, the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reported that business is Texas’s most common bachelor’s degree.

Below, we focus on Texas’s top affordable online marketing programs to help you boost your career cost-effectively. We also listed their accrediting bodies, costs, and specializations offered to help you decide.

The Cost of Online Marketing Programs in Texas

The costs of academic programs in Texas can vary significantly, but they are generally known for their affordability. The latest NCES data shows that the state’s tuition cost, $8,187 at in-state, four-year public colleges, is below the national average. In-state, two-year public colleges also come cheap at $2,931. In this article, the cost of online marketing programs in Texas ranges from $245 to $1,090 per credit hour.

For programs with higher costs, consider getting financial aid. If eligible, students will receive scholarships and grants from schools or the federal or state government. Many employers also offer tuition reimbursement plans.

Top Affordable Online Marketing Programs in Texas

Many affordable online marketing programs in Texas offer asynchronous learning, allowing students to complete coursework on their preferred schedule. These programs fit certain lifestyles, especially for those balancing work, family, or other commitments.

University of the Incarnate World, Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)

The University of Incarnate World offers this BBA degree at its H-E-B School of Business and Administration. This program provides an extensive and relevant general business education preparing students to flourish in various fields. It helps students understand how business organization elements are linked to each other and the marketplace. It is accredited by The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.

Cost: $500-$1,090 per credit hour

Specializations offered are in marketing, management, general business, management information systems, sports management, accounting, finance, economics, and international business.

Texas Woman’s University, Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing

The BBA in Marketing offered by Texas Woman’s University equips students with skills to be qualified for market research, product development, social media, management, and brand-building positions. The program provides hands-on experience by having students collaborate with local businesses to build and implement marketing plans and approaches. Its classes are held on the Denton campus, online, and in hybrid settings. It is available at the university’s Merrilee Alexander College of Business and Entrepreneurship, which is now AACSB-accredited.

Estimated Total Cost: $17,655

With this degree, students can land roles as sales managers, market research analysts, and social media specialists, among others.

University of Houston – Downtown, Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing

Since 1993, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) International has continuously recognized UHD Davies College of Business. Its marketing program develops students’ hard and soft skills and, at the same time, provides the foundation for a marketing career. Here, students enjoy the promotional elements of marketing, which entail personal selling, marketing strategy, and advertising. Others can also lean toward pricing, distribution, and marketing research.

Tuition: $245.75/per semester credit hour (Texas resident); $665.75/semester credit hour (non-resident)

Marketing career opportunities are not limited to the private sector. Graduates are also qualified to work in government agencies and nonprofit organizations.

West Texas A&M University, Master of Business Administration (MBA)

With its fully online and asynchronous program, West Texas A&M’s MBA offering is specifically designed for working professionals. Students must show accounting, finance, and statistics proficiency to get admitted. Upon admission, they can choose their course load per semester within four semesters yearly. This program is accredited by the AACSB.

Estimated Cost: $500 per credit hour

Students can focus on marketing, management, healthcare management, computer information systems, and procurement management.

St. Edward’s University, Master of Science in Digital Marketing and Analytics

St. Edward’s University offers an MS in Digital Marketing and Analytics through its AACSB-accredited Bill Munday School of Business. In just 16 months, students can gain the knowledge needed for digital and social media analytics, business intelligence and analytics, user interface design, marketing automation, and digital innovations. The university prides itself on its small, interactive classes, flexible schedules, and well-connected instructors.

Tuition: $36,000

Students will focus on consulting and research experiences that deliver hands-on learning. Graduates excel in fields, such as firm marketing, data engineering, and lead generation.

How to Choose an Online Marketing Program in Texas

By considering the following factors, you can find an online marketing program in Texas that fits your career ambitions and personal needs:

• Accreditation guarantees that the program meets academic standards. It can also play a crucial role in advanced education opportunities or future employment. Look for Texas-specific regional accreditation or national accreditation for online courses.
• Curriculum Content. A high-quality marketing program should teach core subjects, like content marketing, digital marketing, SEO, consumer behavior, and data analytics. Practical experience is important in marketing, so examine the courses offered, especially in terms of hands-on learning, capstone projects, or case studies.
• Program Reputation and Rankings. A highly regarded degree will present better faculty expertise, resources, and career opportunities. Research an institution’s or online marketing program’s reputation by checking out rankings, alumni success stories, and student reviews.
• Alumni Network and Job Placement. A diverse alumni network can offer valuable job opportunities and industry connections. Enroll in programs that offer internship opportunities during study and a high job placement rate.
• Support Services. Career services can help you discover internships or job placements after graduation. Search for programs that provide excellent student support services, namely career counseling, academic advising, and technical support for online students.

The Marketing Career Outlook in Texas

Market research analysts took around 903,400 jobs in 2023, per the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. They are forecasted to increase by 8% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all professions. This translates to a projected 88,500 vacancies for these roles per year, for the next decade.