Who is the Bachelor’s Degree in Online Marketing at AKAD Suitable For?

The Bachelor’s programme in Online Marketing is aimed at individuals who have an affinity for digital media and aspire to a career in digital marketing. You belong to the target group if you want to actively shape the transformation in marketing – for example, as a career starter with university entrance qualification, as a career changer with completed vocational training and professional experience, or with advanced vocational training qualifications. The distance learning programme is particularly suitable if you want to study alongside your job, flexibly and independently of location. It also addresses people with initial experience in the media or marketing environment who want to expand their qualification profile with a recognised university degree and solid online marketing skills.

What are the formal admission requirements?

Access to the degree programme requires one of the following formal qualifications:

• General university entrance qualification (Abitur), subject-specific university entrance qualification or advanced technical college entrance qualification
• Equivalent university entrance qualification from abroad
• Recognised advanced training or technical school qualifications (e.g. technician, master craftsman, business administrator, specialist, state-recognised educator)
• Completed vocational training plus at least two years of professional experience and a passed university aptitude test or starting with a trial study period
• Proof of German language proficiency (for international applicants), for example DSH-2, TestDaF level 4 or C1 certificate according to the CEFR

English language skills at level B2 as well as basic mathematical and statistical knowledge are additionally recommended. Missing knowledge can be acquired alongside your studies within a preparatory course.

You should bring a willingness for independent, structured learning and self-motivation. Basic computer skills, an interest in digital trends as well as openness to new marketing tools and analysis methods are advantageous. Also in demand are communication skills, creativity and the ability to manage time effectively in order to successfully complete the flexible study programme alongside work and other commitments.

What content does the Bachelor’s degree in Online Marketing at AKAD University cover?

In the Online Marketing distance learning programme (B.A.), you receive comprehensive training in all key areas of digital marketing. The curriculum focuses on the methods and tools of modern online marketing, combined with practical management and IT skills. The content includes, among other things:

• Management of digital transformation: You engage with digital motivation, tools and services as well as organisational changes.
• Basics of business and IT: Business informatics, business mathematics, statistics, database management and fundamentals of economic activity are part of the mandatory curriculum.
• Marketing management and online marketing: In addition to classic marketing concepts, you learn social media marketing, Marketing 4.0, search engine marketing and e-business.
• Web and IT skills: Practical applications of web programming, usability and interface design are integral components.
• Personnel and project management: Content such as classical and agile project management, personnel management as well as innovation and entrepreneurship skills prepare you for leadership roles.
• Data analysis and visualisation: You acquire basic knowledge in big data management and business analytics.
• English for professional purposes: The module “English for professional purposes C1" qualifies you for international contexts.
• Elective modules for specialisation: Choose two out of five specialisations (e.g. Social Media Marketing & Digital Brand Management, Search Engine Marketing, Data Analysis and Visualisation, Digital Business, Digital Service).
• Practical projects and case studies: An integrated simulation game and concrete marketing projects promote practical transfer.

Through the broad range of topics, you develop skills to strategically plan, manage and evaluate complex online marketing projects. Analytical thinking, methodological competence, creativity and digital leadership are as much learning objectives as the confident handling of modern online tools.

What does the structure of the Online Marketing distance learning programme look like?

The degree is entirely digital and designed for maximum flexibility. You can start the Bachelor’s programme at any time and choose between three time models:

• Sprint variant: Completion in 36 months – ideal for fast-paced study with high intensity.
• Standard variant: Completion in 48 months – classic option for working professionals.
• Stretch variant: Completion in 72 months – allows particularly low weekly workload.

You study all content independently via the online campus. Digital scripts, teaching videos, podcasts, online tests and webinars are used. The order of the modules is flexible so that you can design your study plan individually. Tutors are available to assist you in the virtual campus if you have questions. Interaction with fellow students, study groups as well as online events and workshops are also part of everyday study life.

Examinations are primarily conducted online: you take exams at your own pace (open-book principle with video supervision), prepare term papers, project work or deliver digital presentations. At the end, there is the Bachelor’s thesis, which you also submit and defend remotely.

A particular feature is the compulsory elective modules: you select two specialisations yourself and thus set content priorities, e.g. in social media marketing, search engine marketing or data visualisation. A practice-oriented project component and a simulation game ensure that you apply learning content directly.

What career opportunities does a degree in Online Marketing open up?

With the Bachelor’s degree in Online Marketing, you are qualified for the growing digital economy. Typical areas of deployment after graduation are:

• Online Marketing Manager or Digital Marketing Manager: Planning and management of online campaigns in companies, agencies or start-ups.
• Social Media Manager: Creation, management and analysis of social media activities to increase reach and brand loyalty.
• Content Marketing Specialist: Development and distribution of target group-specific content in blogs, videos, e-mails and other channels.
• Search Engine Marketing (SEA/SEO): Development and optimisation of strategies for greater visibility in search engines.
• Digital Marketing Consultant: Advising companies on digitalisation, marketing strategy and data analysis.
• Project Manager Digital Communication: Leading interdisciplinary teams, developing digital projects and managing transformation processes.

Graduates are in demand across industries such as media, retail, industry, consulting or the public sector. The Bachelor’s degree also qualifies you for enrolling in advanced Master’s or MBA programmes, e.g. in digital marketing, communication or management.

How are the costs for the Online Marketing degree composed and what financing options are available?

The costs for the distance learning programme at AKAD University vary depending on the chosen time model and duration of study:

• Sprint (36 months): €357 per month, total €12,852
• Standard (48 months): €295 per month, total €14,160
• Stretch (72 months): €203 per month, total €14,616

Additionally, there is a one-time examination fee of €960, which is partially waived during current discount promotions. Included are all study materials, online access, personal support and all online examinations. Tuition fees can be paid in monthly instalments. Those who have prior achievements recognised (e.g. ECTS credits from other degree programmes or further training) can reduce the total costs and duration of study.

Financing options include:

• Tax deductibility: Tuition fees can be claimed as income-related expenses or special expenses.
• Support from employers: Many companies financially support the further education of their employees.
• Discount promotions: AKAD offers special discounts or waivers of examination fees several times a year.
• 4-week free trial: At the beginning, you can try the programme without obligation. No fees are incurred during this phase.

For an optimal financing strategy, early planning is recommended – also with regard to education funds, scholarships or a private education or KfW student loan. The university provides individual payment plans upon request.