8 Ways to Become A Digital Marketer Without A Degree

If you’re wondering how to become a digital marketer without a degree, you’re in good company. The marketing field values hands-on skills and experience as much as formal education. Numerous successful digital marketers have developed their careers without holding a conventional degree. If you’re determined to break into this field, follow these eight proven steps to land a marketing job without a degree.

Is a degree normally needed to get into digital marketing?

The short answer is no. While some companies might list a degree as a requirement, many are more focused on your skills and experience. While degrees can be advantageous, they aren’t the only route to a career in digital marketing. Employers frequently prioritize practical skills, certifications, and real-world experience over formal academic qualifications.

8 proven ways to get into digital marketing without a degree

1. Take digital marketing courses and get certified

Starting a career in digital marketing without a degree begins with enrolling in a digital marketing course. Look for courses that cover essential topics like SEO, content marketing, and Google Analytics. Opt for programs that offer certification upon completion, as these recognized credentials can highlight your skills and commitment to potential employers.

2. Build a personal digital marketing blog

Starting a blog is a great way to practice digital marketing. Choose a niche you’re passionate about and focus on enhancing your blog’s search engine optimization. This hands-on experience will let you apply what you’ve learned and showcase your skills to potential employers. Additionally, your blog acts as a portfolio, illustrating your capability to attract traffic and engage audiences.

3. Choose a specialization

Digital marketing encompasses various fields including SEO, content marketing, social media management, and PPC advertising. To begin, concentrate on one specific area. Specializing enables you to build expertise and stand out in a crowded job market. As you gain proficiency in your chosen field, you can expand your skills into other areas.

4. Follow industry experts and stay updated

To stay ahead in digital marketing, follow established experts in the field. Follow their blogs, listen to their podcasts, and stay updated with their latest insights. This approach keeps you informed about industry trends and best practices. Engaging with the work of experienced marketers can also provide valuable inspiration and guidance as you build your career.

5. Gain practical experience through freelancing

Freelancing provides valuable hands-on experience and helps you build a portfolio. Websites such as Upwork, Fiverr, and PeoplePerHour offer chances to work on real client projects. Begin with smaller tasks to establish your reputation and collect reviews. Freelancing lets you apply your skills, grasp client requirements, and showcase your abilities to future employers.

6. Apply for entry-level marketing jobs

Once you have some experience and a solid understanding of digital marketing, begin applying for entry-level positions. Seek out positions that prioritize practical skills and experience over formal degrees. Customize your resume to emphasize your certifications, blog, and any freelance projects. Starting in a junior role can be a crucial first step toward advancing to higher-level positions.

7. Start your digital marketing agency

If you prefer to take a more entrepreneurial route, consider starting your digital marketing agency. This path requires additional skills in business management, but it can be a rewarding way to showcase your expertise. Concentrate on strengthening your online presence with your blog and use client referrals to expand your business.

8. Build a strong personal brand

A well-developed personal brand can distinguish you from other applicants. Keep an active digital marketing blog, build your social media presence, and connect with industry experts. Contribute guest posts and create content that showcases your expertise. Developing a personal brand helps position you as a skilled and credible digital marketer.

Do you still need a degree even if you’re already hired?

Once you’re employed in a digital marketing role, a degree may not be necessary. Many employers value your skills, experience, and performance over formal education. However, pursuing further education or specialized certifications can still be beneficial for career advancement and keeping up with industry changes.

Pros and cons of not having a degree

Pros

• Cost-Effective: Avoiding a degree can save you a substantial amount of money that would otherwise go toward tuition and related educational costs. These financial savings allow you to invest in practical training, certifications, or tools that can directly enhance your digital marketing skills and job readiness.
• Faster Entry: You can enter the workforce more quickly without the need to spend years in college. Starting earlier means you gain work experience sooner, which is often highly valued in digital marketing. Practical experience and skills developed through hands-on projects or freelancing can sometimes outweigh formal education in the eyes of employers.
• Focus on Skills: Prioritizing practical skills and certifications ensures that your expertise aligns with current industry standards. Many digital marketing roles require specific technical skills, such as SEO or PPC management, which can be effectively acquired through targeted courses and real-world practice rather than a broad academic curriculum.

Cons

• Limited Options: Some employers still prefer candidates with a formal degree, especially for higher-level or competitive positions. A degree might be seen as a basic qualification that gives you an edge over other candidates, even if your practical skills are strong.
• Initial Perception: Without a degree, you might face doubts about your qualifications from potential employers. They might question whether you have the necessary background and knowledge to handle complex marketing tasks. Overcoming these perceptions requires demonstrating your expertise through certifications, a strong portfolio, and proven results.
• Potential for Slower Advancement: Career progression might be slower in some organizations or industries where a degree is seen as a prerequisite for promotion. Certain roles or senior positions could require a degree, making it necessary to prove your capability and performance to advance in your digital marketing career.

You need a degree to be a digital marketer

Entering digital marketing without a degree is completely feasible. Although having a degree can be beneficial, it isn’t essential for starting a career in this field. Concentrate on developing your skills through courses, certifications, and real-world experience. Build a strong personal brand and gain practical experience through freelancing or personal projects. With commitment and effective strategies, you can successfully enter and excel in the digital marketing industry.