Marketing is identifying, anticipating, and satisfying customer needs and wants through creating, promoting, and distributing products and services. It involves understanding the needs and wants of customers and developing strategies to meet those needs profitably and sustainably. Marketing is a crucial aspect of any business, as it helps companies to attract and retain customers, build brand recognition, and increase revenue.

Marketing is an essential function of any business, as it helps companies to connect with their customers and create value for them. By understanding the needs and wants of their customers, companies can develop products and services that meet those needs and create marketing campaigns that effectively communicate the benefits of their products to their target audience. Effective marketing strategies can help companies to build brand recognition, increase sales, and grow their market share.

A PhD in Marketing is a doctoral degree that studies marketing theory, research methods, and practical applications in business. The program is designed to prepare students for academic careers in research and teaching, and leadership roles in the business world. PhD programs in Marketing typically require students to complete a rigorous course of study that includes coursework, research, and the completion of a dissertation. Graduates of PhD programs in Marketing are well-equipped to contribute significantly to marketing through research, teaching, and business leadership.

Eligibility and Requirements for PhD in Marketing in the USA

To be eligible for a PhD in Marketing in the USA, you must have a strong academic background in marketing. This typically means having a bachelor's degree in marketing or a related field, with a GPA of at least 3.0. Some programs may also require applicants to have a master's degree in marketing or a related field.

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Many PhD programs in marketing require applicants to submit standardised test scores, such as the GRE General Test or the GMAT. The GRE General Test is a standardised test for admission to graduate programs in various fields, including marketing. The GMAT is a standardised test used for business school admission.

If you are not a native English speaker, you must demonstrate your English language proficiency to be admitted to a PhD program in marketing in the USA. This can be done by submitting scores from an English language proficiency test, such as the TOEFL or the IELTS.

Your statement of purpose is one of the most important parts of your PhD application. This is your opportunity to tell the admissions committee why you are interested in a PhD in marketing and why you would be a good fit for their program. Your statement of purpose should be well-written, clear, and concise. It should also be tailored to the specific program you are applying to.

Letters of recommendation are another important part of your PhD application. These letters should come from professors or other professionals who can attest to your academic ability, research skills, and potential as a PhD student. Choosing recommenders who know you well and can speak to your strengths and accomplishments is important.

In addition to the above requirements, some PhD programs in marketing may require applicants to submit GRE Subject Test scores in economics or psychology or to complete an interview. It is important to check the specific requirements of the programs you are applying to.

PhD in Marketing Curriculum

Here is a typical curriculum for a PhD in Marketing program in the USA:

Core Courses

• Marketing Theory
• Consumer Behavior
• Marketing Research
• Marketing Strategy
• Marketing Management
• Marketing Ethics
• Marketing Law
• Marketing Analytics
• Marketing Technology
• Marketing Communication

Elective Courses

• Marketing in Emerging Markets
• Marketing in the Digital Age
• Marketing of Services
• Marketing of Non-Profits
• Marketing of Luxury Goods
• Marketing of Sports
• Marketing of Technology
• Marketing of Healthcare
• Marketing of Financial Services
• Marketing of Sustainability

Research Methods

• Quantitative Research Methods
• Qualitative Research Methods
• Data Analysis
• Statistical Modeling
• Experimental Design

Specialisations in PhD in Marketing

• Consumer Behavior
• Marketing Strategy
• Quantitative Marketing
• Retailing
• Advertising

PhD in Marketing Program Rankings

Here are the top 10 PhD in Marketing programs in the world according to QS World University Rankings 2023:

Here are the top 10 PhD in Marketing programs in the world according to Financial Times Rankings 2023:

Here are the top 10 PhD in Marketing programs in the USA according to U.S. News & World Report Rankings 2023:

Top Universities Offering PhD in Marketing in the USA

University of Pennsylvania

The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania is consistently ranked as one of the top business schools in the world. It offers a PhD in Marketing program among the best in the United States. The program provides students with a rigorous curriculum that includes coursework in marketing theory, research methods, and data analysis. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue careers in academia, research, or the corporate world.

Northwestern University

The Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University offers a PhD in Marketing program to give students a deep understanding of consumer behaviour, marketing strategy, and quantitative analysis. The program is highly selective, admitting only a few students each year, and emphasises academic research and practical application.

New York University

The Stern School of Business at New York University is a top-ranked business school that offers a PhD in Marketing program that prepares students for careers in research and teaching. The program emphasises developing advanced research skills and allows students to collaborate on cutting-edge research projects with faculty.

University of Chicago

The Booth School of Business at the University of Chicago offers a PhD in Marketing program focused on developing students' research skills and theoretical understanding of marketing. The program is highly selective, admitting only a small number of students each year, and provides students with opportunities to work closely with faculty on research projects.

Stanford University

The Graduate School of Business at Stanford University offers a PhD in Marketing program designed to prepare students for academic careers in research and teaching. The program provides students with a solid foundation in marketing theory and research methods and opportunities to collaborate with faculty on cutting-edge research projects. Graduates of the program are well-prepared to make significant contributions to marketing through research, teaching, and business leadership.

FAQs

What is the duration of a PhD in Marketing program in the USA?

Typically, PhD in Marketing programs in the USA take 4-5 years. However, the duration may vary depending on the program and the individual student's progress.

What are the eligibility criteria for admission to a PhD in Marketing program in the USA?

The eligibility criteria for admission to a PhD in Marketing program in the USA typically include a master's degree in a related field, satisfactory GRE or GMAT scores, English language proficiency, strong academic credentials, and relevant work experience.

What is the curriculum of a PhD in Marketing program in the USA?

The curriculum of a PhD in Marketing program in the USA typically includes core courses in marketing theory, research methods, and data analysis, as well as elective courses that allow students to specialise in consumer behaviour, marketing strategy, and quantitative marketing. Students also undertake independent research and complete a dissertation.

What are the job prospects after completing a PhD in Marketing program in the USA?

Graduates of PhD in Marketing programs in the USA can pursue careers in academia, research, or the corporate world. They may work as professors, researchers, consultants, or marketing executives in various industries.

What is the average salary for PhD in Marketing holders in the USA?

The average salary for PhD in Marketing holders in the USA varies depending on the industry, job role, and location. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for postsecondary teachers (including marketing professors) was $80,790 as of May 2020.

What are the top universities in the USA for PhD in Marketing programs?

The top universities in the USA for PhD in Marketing programs include the University of Pennsylvania, Northwestern University, New York University, the University of Chicago, and Stanford University, among others.