MBA in Marketing: Overview, Colleges, Career, Salaries – 2025 Updated

Did you know that nearly 4 lakh students enrol in MBA in Marketing programmes every year? This number is steadily rising, reflecting the growing popularity and demand for marketing as a career choice.

After completing their undergraduate degree in marketing or a related field, many students are eager to deepen their understanding of the complexities of the marketing world.

However, selecting the right institute can be daunting, especially when navigating the wide array of options available.

In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know before enrolling in an MBA in Marketing programme.

From understanding the course duration to exploring the top MBA in Marketing colleges in India, we’ll cover all the key factors to help you make an informed decision that aligns with your career goals.

Who Should Opt for an MBA in Marketing?

An MBA in marketing is an excellent choice for individuals who are passionate about understanding consumer behaviour, brand management, and the intricacies of marketing strategies.

If you have a strong interest in business and enjoy working on creative and analytical challenges, this programme could be the perfect fit.

1. Fresh Graduates

Who they are: Recent college or university graduates, typically with a background in business, commerce, or other related fields.

Why they opt for an MBA in marketing: To gain in-depth knowledge and practical skills in marketing, making them job-ready for roles like marketing assistant, brand executive, or digital marketing associate.

2. Mid-Level Professionals

Who they are: Individuals with a few years of professional experience, typically in marketing or related fields.

Why they opt for an MBA in marketing: To upskill and progress in their careers, aiming for managerial roles such as marketing manager, brand manager, or product manager.

3. Senior Executives

Who they are: Individuals in higher managerial roles, such as senior marketing executives, directors, or heads of departments.

Why they opt for an MBA in marketing: To refine their leadership and strategic skills, allowing them to take on top-level roles such as Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) or marketing consultant.

4. Entrepreneurs

Who they are: Individuals who own or are starting a business, particularly in sectors where marketing plays a crucial role in business success.

Why they opt for an MBA in marketing: To understand advanced marketing strategies, build their brand, and effectively promote their products or services to a wider audience.

P.S. Many also choose to enhance their skills by enrolling in an email marketing course with a certificate, which helps them master targeted campaigns and reach potential customers more effectively. This further complements their marketing knowledge, making them more competitive in the ever-evolving digital landscape.

5. Career Changers

Who they are: Professionals from different industries or backgrounds who wish to transition into marketing.

Why they opt for an MBA in marketing: To gain specialised knowledge and skills in marketing, enabling them to shift careers and succeed in the marketing industry.

6. Digital Marketing Enthusiasts

Who they are: Individuals interested in digital platforms, social media, online advertising, and analytics.

Why they opt for an MBA in digital marketing: To acquire advanced knowledge and skills in the rapidly growing field of digital marketing, opening doors to roles such as digital marketing strategist, SEO manager, or content marketing head, consider enrolling in an Instagram marketing course with certification.

This will help you master the latest techniques for growing and engaging audiences on one of the world’s most popular social media platforms.

7. Working Professionals Seeking Career Advancement

Who they are: Individuals currently working in marketing or related fields but looking for career advancement.

Why they opt for an MBA in marketing: To enhance their skills, expand their knowledge, and secure senior roles or promotions within their current organisation or industry.

8. International Students

Who they are: Students from outside the country seeking advanced education in global marketing practices.

Why they opt for an MBA in marketing: To gain a global perspective on marketing strategies and to enhance their career prospects in international markets.

MBA in marketing is designed for those who want to take on leadership roles in marketing departments or agencies.

Whether you are a fresh graduate looking to enter the marketing field or a professional seeking to enhance your skills, this degree will provide you with the advanced knowledge needed to excel in the competitive marketing world.

Want to pursue a specialisation in the marketing domain?

Top Companies Hiring MBA Marketing Graduates

Leading global companies highly sought after graduates with an MBA in marketing. Their skills in marketing strategy, consumer behaviour, brand management, and digital marketing make them valuable assets in a variety of industries.

Here are some top companies that regularly hire MBA marketing graduates:

1. Apple

Apple hires MBA marketing graduates to manage its product marketing, advertising strategies, and customer relations. The company values innovative thinkers who can drive brand growth and enhance its global marketing efforts.

2. Google

Known for its dynamic and creative culture, Google employs MBA marketing graduates to oversee its digital advertising strategies and product marketing campaigns.

The company offers opportunities for brand management and customer insights, especially in the realm of digital marketing.

3. Coca-Cola

Coca-Cola frequently hires MBA marketing graduates to lead their global marketing teams, focusing on brand management, advertising, and consumer engagement. These roles require strategic planning and adapting to market trends, especially in the digital space.

Bonus Read: Marketing Mix of Coca-Cola

4. Procter & Gamble (P&G)

P&G is known for offering leadership roles to MBA marketing graduates in brand management and product innovation.

The company seeks professionals to drive consumer loyalty and manage large-scale marketing campaigns, with a focus on both traditional and digital marketing.

5. Amazon

Amazon recruits MBA marketing graduates to work in areas such as product marketing, digital marketing, and customer experience management.

These graduates are key in enhancing Amazon’s marketing strategies across its vast e-commerce platform.

6. Unilever

Unilever employs MBA marketing graduates for roles in brand management, customer insights, and digital marketing. The company values strategic thinkers who can help expand its global presence and drive marketing innovation.

7. Microsoft

Microsoft hires MBA in digital marketing graduates to lead its digital transformation and marketing initiatives.

These graduates often work on developing digital campaigns and managing online advertising to enhance Microsoft’s brand image and customer engagement.

8. Johnson & Johnson

Johnson & Johnson recruits MBA marketing graduates to manage its healthcare and consumer product marketing strategies.

Graduates are involved in brand development, marketing research, and executing high-impact campaigns to promote J&J’s diverse product portfolio.

These companies offer dynamic roles that allow MBA marketing graduates to showcase their skills in both traditional and digital marketing, helping them advance their careers globally in high-impact positions.

Core MBA in Marketing Management Subjects You Need to Know

An MBA in Marketing Management is a comprehensive two-year postgraduate programme designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and skills in marketing strategies, consumer behaviour, and brand management.

The curriculum is typically divided into four semesters, each focusing on specific aspects of marketing and business management. Below is a detailed breakdown of the subjects covered in each semester:

First Semester

• Management Concepts: Introduction to fundamental management principles and practices
• Business Environment: Analysis of the external factors influencing business operations
• Managerial Economics: Study of economic principles applied to managerial decision-making
• Accounting for Managerial Decisions: Understanding financial statements and their role in management decisions
• Quantitative Methods for Management: Application of statistical tools in business analysis
• Business Communication: Development of effective communication skills in a business context

Second Semester

• Marketing Management: Exploration of marketing strategies and their implementation
• Consumer Behaviour: Examination of factors influencing consumer purchasing decisions
• Sales Management: Techniques for managing sales teams and sales processes
• Advertising Management: Strategies for creating and managing advertising campaigns
• Financial and Cost Accounting: In-depth analysis of financial and cost accounting principles
• Operations Management: Study of production and operations processes in businesses

Third Semester: Advanced Marketing Strategies

• Brand Management: Techniques for building and maintaining strong brands
• Retail Marketing: Strategies for marketing in retail environments
• International Marketing: Approaches to marketing in global markets
• Marketing Research: Methods for conducting research to inform marketing decisions
• Product and Brand Management: Strategies for managing product portfolios and brand equity
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Techniques for managing and analysing customer interactions

Fourth Semester: Strategic Marketing and Electives

• Strategic Marketing Management: Formulation and implementation of marketing strategies
• Digital Marketing: Utilisation of digital channels for marketing purposes
• Services Marketing: Marketing strategies tailored for service-based industries
• Logistics and Supply Chain Management: Management of the flow of goods and services.
• Entrepreneurship Development: Skills and strategies for starting and managing new ventures
• Elective Courses: Specialised subjects, for instance, a conversion rate optimisation course online, based on individual interests and career goals

A Detailed Guide to the Admission Process for an MBA in Marketing in India

The admissions process for pursuing a degree in an MBA in Marketing in India is similar to the admission process for a general MBA degree which requires an application form to be submitted with a fee ranging between Rs 1,500 to 2,500.

Minimum Requirements to Pursue an MBA in Marketing in India

• A bachelor’s degree needs to be pursued from a recognised university in the field of marketing or any related field such as BA, BBA, BCOM, etc., and secure a minimum of 50% to enrol for the best MBA in marketing colleges in India
• Candidates that fall under the categories of SC/STs (reserved categories), receive a relaxation of 5%, arriving at a minimum percentage of 45%.
• After passing the eligibility requirements, students are required to undergo one of the entrance exams such as CAT, CMAT, IIFT, XAT, and SNAP.
• Few colleges allow final-year students to apply if they provide a no-objection certificate from the principal of the college.

Top MBA Marketing Skills to Excel in Your Career

Pursuing an MBA in marketing management equips graduates with a comprehensive skill set essential for success in the dynamic marketing landscape. Key competencies include:

• Strategic Thinking: Developing long-term plans that align with business objectives and market trends.
• Analytical Skills: Interpreting data to make informed decisions and measure marketing effectiveness.
• Digital Proficiency: Navigating digital platforms and tools is crucial for roles in digital marketing.
• Communication Skills: Crafting compelling messages for diverse audiences across various channels.
• Leadership and Team Management: Leading teams to execute marketing strategies effectively.
• Consumer Behaviour Understanding: Analysing customer needs to tailor marketing efforts accordingly.
• Financial Acumen: Managing budgets and evaluating the return on investment for marketing initiatives.
• Creativity: Developing innovative campaigns that capture attention and drive engagement.

These skills collectively prepare MBA marketing graduates to navigate the complexities of modern marketing and contribute significantly to organisational success.

Admission Procedure for an MBA in Marketing in India

Students are required to take entrance exams such as CAT, MAT, XAT, CMAT, etc., that are required by some of the top MBA in marketing colleges in India.

Later, based on the results, students are shortlisted to take a personal exam, which is followed by a personal interview.

Here is a step-by-step procedure that you will have to follow:

• The student needs to apply for a college’s MBA in Marketing Programme after complying with the eligibility requirements.
• As per the college’s procedure, you will have to take the entrance exam mentioned to you.
• Those who qualify in the exam usually get admission or they may have to go through a series of interviews before getting admission to their desired college.

List of Top MBA in Marketing Colleges in India

Here is an overview of the list of top MBA in Marketing colleges with all the details, concerning fees, course duration, entrance exams, etc.

1. IIDE – The Digital School

You cannot call yourself a marketing enthusiast if you say that you have never heard about ‘What is digital marketing?‘.

The whole world, especially the current generation, has witnessed how the introduction of digital marketing is opening infinite possibilities to explore in the marketing industry.

With the motive to equip students with the latest skills prevailing in the digital industry, IIDE came into existence.

Being Asia’s most trusted digital marketing institute, we aim to become the world’s largest contributor by delivering digital marketing talent.

We live up to this mission and have been recognised by N.S.D.C (National Skill Development Corporation) for providing our students with practical skills.

Our 11-month MBA-Level Post Graduation in Digital Marketing Programme aims to help students fast-track their careers in the field of digital marketing.

Let’s get an overview of what this course entails:

• Covers 2 very unique specialisations – Performance Marketing and Creative Strategy
• Agency visits to top companies such as Kinnect ensure that our students receive practical exposure. This helps our students to better understand the goings in the digital marketing industry.
• Training in resume building and mock interviews make sure that our students receive 100% placement assurance and secure a job at top digital marketing agencies such as Performix, Starcom, Schbang, etc.
• Students receive hands-on training in more than 25 tools which ensures that they are equipped with the latest skills that are used daily by digital marketers.

If you wish to learn more about our PG programme then we strongly recommend you check this blog on “Top 9 Reasons Why IIDE’s PG in Digital Marketing Programme Worth It”

Course Fee: The course fee for IIDE’s PG Programme is INR 6.45 lakhs (with a scholarship of up to INR 1 lakh).
Course Duration: The duration of IIDE’s Post-Graduate programme in Digital Marketing is 11 months.
Training Mode: Offline
Trainers: Learn from experts who have worked with brands globally in the digital world.
Internship: Alongside learning, their students undergo a 2-month mandatory internship with IIDE’s partner firms.
Contact Number: +91 9619958615
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://iide.co/
Addresses: Mumbai: Girls Education Society, IIDE Campus, AGES, SV Road, near Andheri Station, Andheri West, Andheri, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400058
Delhi: Metro Exit no. 4, E-30, 2nd & 3rd Floor, above Regal Shoes, behind McDonald’s, South Extension II, New Delhi, Delhi 110049

2. IIM Kozhikode: Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode

IIM Koz, being one of the premier management institutes is one of the top MBA in marketing colleges in India. Students can enrol for its 2-year PGP programme by giving CAT. This college has an overall cut-off of 85 percentile.

However, students who secure a percentile of 98 or higher have an edge over others for being shortlisted for an interview.

Course Fee: The course fee for IIM Kozhikode is INR 20.50 lakh.
Course Duration: This flagship PGP programme is for a duration of 2 years.
Contact Number: +91-495-2809100
Address: IIMK Campus P. O. Kozhikode – 673570, Kerala, India

3. NMIMS

Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies School of Business Management (NMIMS), being a private business school is one of the best MBA in marketing colleges in India.

They are also known for offering some of the best MBA in Digital Marketing Programmes in Mumbai.

Here, students who want to enrol for an MBA in Marketing at NMIMS are required to clear their NMAT exam.

Course Fee: The fee for an NMIMS MBA in Marketing course ranges between INR 6 lakh to 24 lakh.
Course Duration: Their MBA in Marketing programme is for a duration of 2 years.
Contact Number: 022 4235 5555
Address: L. Mehta Road, Vile Parle, West, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, Pin Code – 400 056

4. SP Jain (SPJIMR)

Being a leading management institute and one of the institutes to gain popularity for its PGDM programme, SP Jain is one of the best colleges offering an MBA in Marketing in India.

This college has an overall cut-off of 85% percentile. To enrol in SP Jain students have to clear their CAT examination, which is followed by two consecutive rounds of interviews.

They are also known for offering some of the best digital marketing classes.

Course Fee: The fee for an MBA in marketing is INR 33.02 lakhs.
Course Duration: Their MBA in Marketing course duration is 2 years.
Contact Number: 022-61454200
Address: Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Campus, Munshi Nagar, Dadabhai Road, Mumbai – 400058, Maharashtra, India

5. IIM Raipur: Indian Institute of Management Raipur

Next on our list, IIM Raipur is one of the best MBA in Marketing colleges in India. Students have to clear their CAT examination followed by a round of personal interviews.

Such interviews are conducted through CAP; the overall cut-off for CAP is 92 percentile, with 70 as the sectional percentile.

Course Fees: The fee for their MBA in Marketing Programme is INR 16.1 lakhs.
Course Duration: Their MBA in Marketing course duration is 2 years.
Contact Number: 7712474600
Address: Atal Nagar, P. O. – Kurru (Abhanpur), Raipur – 493661, Chhattisgarh, India

6. New Delhi Institute of Management, Delhi

This institute is known for offering dual specialisation PGDM courses across 9 specialisations.

In order to apply for an MBA in marketing course in this college, students need to qualify for either one of the entrance exams such as CAT, MAT, XAT, CMAT, ATMA, or GMAT in addition to GDPI, academic performance, work experience and others.

Course Fee: The fee for their MBA in Marketing programme is INR 11.5 lakh.
Course Duration: Their MBA in Marketing course duration is 2 years.
Contact Number: 011 4011 1000
Address: 50 & 60 (B&C, Mehrauli – Badarpur Rd, behind Batra Hospital, Tughlakabad Institutional Area, Vayusenabad, New Delhi, Delhi 110062

7. Great Lakes Challenge (GLIM)

This institute has made its place to become one of the youngest top-ranking institutes in India. With more than 9000 alumni across 30 countries, Great Lakes Challenge’s MBA in Marketing programme has gained immense popularity among students.

In order to apply for an MBA in this college, students need to secure a valid score in either the CAT/XAT examination.

Candidates who are unable to secure the test scores will need to appear at the Great Lakes Aptitude Test.

Students also gain admission based on the merits accomplished in their academic exam.

Course Fee: The course fee for their MBA in Marketing Programme is INR 14.25 lakh
Course Duration: Their MBA in marketing course duration is 2 years.
Contact Number: 044-27489000
Address: Great Lakes Institute Of Management Dr. Bala V. Balachandar Campus East Coast Road, Manamai Village ThirukazhukundramTaluk, Chennai – 603102, Tamil Nadu, India

8. Symbiosis University of Applied Sciences (SUAS)

Symbiosis University of Applied Sciences (SUAS) in Indore is recognised as one of the best MBA in marketing colleges in India.

The university offers a comprehensive MBA in Marketing programme with a special focus on high-growth sectors such as Retail and E-Commerce.

The curriculum is designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and skills in areas like e-commerce applications, retailing, data analytics, and digital marketing.

Minimum 60% marks in both 10th and 12th examinations; minimum 55% in a 3-year bachelor’s degree. Candidates must appear for SKILL-CAT or any national entrance exam like MAT/CAT/SNAP/GMAT.

Course Fee: The course fee for their MBA in marketing programme is INR 6,25,000
Course Duration: Their MBA in marketing course duration is 2 years
Phone: +91 9285333010
Address: Bada Bangadda, Super Corridor, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India, Pin Code – 453112

9. Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth College

Global Business School & Research Centre (GBSRC), affiliated with Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune, is recognised as one of the best MBA in marketing colleges in India.

The institute offers a comprehensive MBA in Marketing programme designed to equip students with advanced marketing strategies and practical insights.

GBSRC provides a variety of programmes, including full-time and part-time MBA courses, catering to diverse student needs.

The MBA in Marketing curriculum encompasses core subjects such as marketing management, consumer behaviour, market research, brand management, digital marketing, and strategic marketing.

These courses are structured to develop strategic thinking, analytical skills, and leadership abilities among students.

Admission to the MBA in Marketing programme at GBSRC requires candidates to have a minimum of 50% marks in graduation and satisfactory scores in national-level entrance exams such as CAT, XAT, NMAT, MAT, or SNAP.

The programme is AICTE-approved and spans over two years, divided into four semesters.

Course Fee: The fee for the MBA in Marketing programme ranges from INR 6 lakh to 12 lakh, depending on the specific course and specialisations chosen.
Course Duration: The MBA in Marketing course duration is typically 2 years.
Contact Number: +91 9860650707 / +91 020 67919400
Address: Global Business School & Research Centre, Tathawade, Pune 411033, Maharashtra, India.

10. K J Somaiya Institute of Management

K J Somaiya Institute of Management, located in Mumbai, is recognised as one of the best MBA in marketing colleges in India.

The institute offers a comprehensive MBA programme with a major in Marketing, designed to equip students with strategic and analytical skills essential for the dynamic business environment.

The curriculum encompasses core modules covering fundamental business disciplines, elective modules allowing specialisation in various marketing topics, and experiential learning through capstone projects and industry interactions.

This holistic approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared to address complex marketing scenarios with innovative solutions.

Admission to their MBA in marketing programme requires candidates to clear competitive entrance exams such as CAT, XAT, GMAT, NMAT, or CMAT.

The selection process also considers the candidate’s profile and performance in group discussions and personal interviews.

Course Fee: The fee structure for the MBA in Marketing programme is detailed on the institute’s official website.
Course Duration: The MBA in Marketing course duration is 2 years.
Contact Number: +91 70282 33777
Address: K J Somaiya Institute of Management, Vidyavihar (East), Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, Pin Code – 400 077