How to become a marketing manager
You could get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- applying directly
University
You can become a marketing manager as graduate of any subject. Some higher national diploma or degree subjects might be particularly relevant like:
- marketing
- business management
- digital marketing
- advertising
- psychology
Some companies might offer graduate marketing management schemes.
You might be able to fast-track through professional marketing qualifications if your degree is accredited.
You can find out more about the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) accredited degree.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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Apprenticeship
You could start by taking a Marketing Assistant or Marketing Executive Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.
If you already have some marketing experience, you might be able to do a Marketing Manager Level 6 Higher Apprenticeship.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
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Work
You could start as a marketing executive and then take a qualification offered by a professional marketing body such as:
Direct Application
You might be able to apply directly for marketing manager jobs if you have experience in a related area like:
- sales management
- advertising
- communications
- public relations
Real career story
Find out how Erica became a marketing manager.
Education
“After finishing my A levels I did a higher national diploma in business marketing for two years, I then did a further year to convert it into a degree.”
First job
“After university I took a role in a building society. I had the knowledge and theory, but no experience, so I did this to get some admin experience. I then worked for an engineering firm as a marketing executive for a year.”
Marketing manager
“After that I became a marketing manager for a chain of leisure centres for 15 years. I loved it. Nice people and a lovely working environment.”
Redundancy and new job
“After being made redundant, I went on to apply for lots of jobs. Fortunately, I have lots of transferable skills and I secured a new job within a month. I am now a Group Marketing Manager for a chain of builders merchants. I’m really enjoying the new challenge and change of industry.”
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Professional and industry bodies
You can join The Chartered Institute of Marketing for professional development and training opportunities.
Further information
Learn more about how to get into marketing from The Chartered Institute of Marketing.
You can also find out about marketing events and challenges by DMA Talent on the Institute of Data and Marketing.