Marketing

The Bachelor of Arts in Marketing at the University of Illinois at Chicago offers students a comprehensive education designed to prepare them for dynamic careers in the ever-evolving field of marketing. This program emphasizes both foundational business principles and specialized marketing strategies, providing students with the analytical, creative, and practical skills necessary to excel in various sectors including digital marketing, advertising, brand management, and market research. Throughout the coursework, students explore core topics such as consumer behavior, marketing analytics, integrated marketing communications, and strategic planning, enabling them to develop data-driven and innovative marketing solutions. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with real-world applications, encouraging experiential learning through internships, projects, and collaborations with industry partners. Students are also equipped with critical digital competencies, including social media marketing, e-commerce, and the use of marketing software tools. The program fosters a global perspective by incorporating international marketing concepts and diverse case studies, preparing graduates to operate effectively in multicultural environments. With access to modern facilities, experienced faculty members who are experts in their fields, and strong ties to local and national businesses, students gain valuable networking opportunities and industry insights. Upon graduation, students are well-prepared for roles such as marketing coordinator, brand manager, digital marketing specialist, and market analyst, with a clear understanding of how to develop, implement, and evaluate successful marketing campaigns. The Bachelor of Arts in Marketing at UIC is committed to nurturing innovative thinkers and strategic communicators who can adapt to the fast-changing landscape of commerce and leverage marketing as a powerful tool for business growth and societal impact.

Major Requirements

Students may choose to focus their nine elective hours for their major within a given concentration. The same elective cannot be counted toward more than one concentration. Students may also choose to complete the degree without a concentration. In this case, students may fulfill their 9-hour elective requirement by choosing any combination of marketing electives from within the Department of Managerial Studies.

The Department of Managerial Studies offers the following four concentrations in marketing:

Business Electives

Requirements

• High school coursework and grade point average
• ACT or SAT score
• Cumulative High School Percentile Rank
• Grade trend and course levels
• Personal statement
• Application
• Application Checklist
• $50 Application fee or fee waiver
• Official transcripts from all high schools attended
• Official ACT scores or SAT scores. Test scores listed on high school transcripts will be accepted as official. (UIC ACT test code: 1155; UIC SAT test code: 1851)
• Personal statement
• Official GED scores, if applicable
• After using the Common Application to submit your UIC application, you can then fill out the supplemental scholars application by writing a 500-word essay explaining your interest in becoming a Business Scholar. You will then be contacted to schedule and complete a 20-minute interview with a staff or faculty member.

The University of Illinois at Chicago offers various financial aid options and resources to support students enrolled in its Marketing degree programs. Prospective and current students can apply for federal and state financial aid, including grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the primary application process for federal aid eligibility. Illinois residents may also qualify for state-specific grants and scholarship programs that support undergraduate and graduate students pursuing degrees in marketing and related fields.

In addition to governmental aid, UIC provides institutional scholarships based on merit, financial need, or a combination of both. These scholarships are awarded through the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid and may significantly reduce overall tuition costs. Students are encouraged to explore departmental scholarships available specifically for marketing students, which may have additional criteria such as academic performance, leadership qualities, or industry involvement.

Private sponsorships, philanthropic foundations, and industry partnerships occasionally offer scholarships or internships that aid in financing a marketing education at UIC. Students enrolled in the program are also advised to seek out part-time employment opportunities on campus, including research assistantships, teaching assistantships, or roles within university departments, which can provide income and relevant professional experience.

UIC offers installment payment plans that allow students to spread tuition payments over the semester, easing immediate financial burden. Additionally, students may consider external student loan programs, including federal loans with favorable interest rates and repayment terms, as part of their financing strategy. The university’s financial aid office provides counseling and resources to help students navigate their options and develop a comprehensive financial plan to complete their marketing degree program.

Overall, the financing of marketing studies at UIC involves a combination of federal, state, institutional, and private financial resources, aimed at making higher education accessible and affordable. Students are encouraged early application for financial aid, active pursuit of scholarships, and utilization of available repayment and payment options to support their educational goals efficiently.

The University of Illinois at Chicago offers a comprehensive program in Marketing designed to prepare students for successful careers in the dynamic field of marketing and related areas. The program emphasizes the development of critical skills in marketing strategies, consumer behavior, digital marketing, market research, branding, and advertising. Students are exposed to a rigorous curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring they are well-equipped to meet the demands of the modern marketplace.

Throughout the program, students have opportunities to engage in real-world projects, internships, and collaborations with industry leaders, which enhance their understanding of current trends and practices. The curriculum covers foundational topics such as principles of marketing, marketing analytics, and the role of technology in marketing, as well as advanced areas like international marketing, e-commerce, and social media marketing. The program aims to foster analytical thinking, creativity, and effective communication skills, essential for developing successful marketing campaigns and strategies.

The faculty members are experienced professionals and researchers dedicated to student success and innovation in the field. They often involve students in research projects and provide mentorship for career development. Graduates of the program go on to work in diverse sectors, including retail, healthcare, technology, finance, and consulting, holding positions such as marketing managers, brand strategists, digital marketing specialists, and market research analysts.

The program also offers various resources such as state-of-the-art labs, career services, and networking events, which help students build professional connections and prepare for employment after graduation. With the increasing importance of digital literacy, the curriculum incorporates current tools and platforms, providing students with practical skills in data analysis, digital advertising, and customer engagement strategies. The university’s location in Chicago, a major economic and cultural hub, offers students additional advantages through access to a vibrant business community and numerous industry events, workshops, and seminars.

Overall, the University of Illinois at Chicago’s Marketing program aims to produce well-rounded, innovative, and strategic marketing professionals who are ready to excel in a competitive global environment. Whether students wish to pursue careers directly in marketing, or in fields that require marketing expertise, the program provides a solid foundation and abundant opportunities for growth and achievement.