Should I study marketing or encourage my child to pursue a marketing degree? – Nsemkeka
There is a growing conversation among parents, guardians, and prospective students about the value and future prospects of pursuing a Marketing degree at a higher institution. Many express concern about what opportunities exist for marketing graduates in a competitive job market. Unfortunately, these concerns are often rooted in misconceptions and a limited understanding of the breadth and relevance of Marketing as a discipline.
A common misconception is that Marketing is a “soft” option, recommended only for students perceived to be weak in mathematics or science. As a result, some parents advise their children to choose Marketing simply to gain admission into a university, especially when other more technical disciplines seem unattainable. This reasoning is misguided. Marketing is not an academic refuge for underperforming students; rather, it is an interdisciplinary field that draws on data analysis, behavioral science, psychology, communication, and business strategy. The modern marketer must be both analytically sharp and creatively agile.
Another misguided belief is that Marketing contributes to graduate unemployment. This narrative, often echoed in discussions about job scarcity, ignores the transformative role of Marketing in today’s global economy. Far from being obsolete, Marketing has become increasingly central to business success. Companies rely on skilled marketers to understand evolving consumer behavior, position their brands, and compete effectively in digital and global marketplaces.
Why Study Marketing? Five Key Reasons
1. Versatile Career Opportunities
A Marketing degree provides access to a wide range of careers in advertising, digital marketing, brand management, sales, market research, and public relations. As all sectors, from healthcare to technology, require marketing expertise, the possibilities are extensive.
2. High Relevance in the Digital Economy
The digital transformation of business has made marketing expertise even more critical. Skills in social media strategy, content creation, analytics, and e-commerce are now essential for modern enterprises.
3. Development of Transferable Skills
Marketing education fosters communication, critical thinking, creativity, data analysis, and strategic decision-making, skills that are applicable across a variety of industries and roles.
4. Entrepreneurial Advantage
For aspiring entrepreneurs, marketing knowledge is invaluable. Understanding consumer needs, branding, and market positioning are crucial to launching and sustaining a successful business.
5. Global and Strategic Perspective
Marketing teaches students to approach problems with a global outlook and strategic mindset. This is increasingly important in a connected world where consumer preferences and business practices vary across cultures.
Conclusion
Rather than dismiss Marketing as a fallback option, it should be recognized as a dynamic, intellectually rigorous, and professionally rewarding field. Both students and parents should make educational decisions based on accurate information, future job market trends, and the alignment between personal interests and academic strengths. Marketing is not only relevant, it is essential to modern business and society.
Author:
Dr. Ibn Kailan Abdul-Hamid
Head of Marketing Department
University of Professional Studies, Accra
ikabdul-hamid@upsamail.edu.gh