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Higher Education Marketing Graduate Certificate

College of Creative Arts and Media

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The Higher Education Marketing Graduate Certificate, offered by WVU's College of Creative Arts and Media, equips you with the skills to dive deeply into the nuances of student recruitment and institutional branding within the foundation of integrated marketing communications strategy.

Cost:

$777 / Cost per credit hour *

Courses and Credits:

4 Courses / 12 Credit Hours

Duration:

About one year

Dates:

Next Start: August 20, 2025 Admission Terms: Fall, Spring

Learning Format:

Online asynchronous

GMAT/GRE:

Optional

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Program Overview

The Higher Education Marketing Graduate Certificate prepares you to master the nuances of student recruitment and institutional branding within the framework of integrated marketing communications (IMC) strategy. Delivered exclusively online, this program provides practical, hands-on learning that you can apply immediately in your career. The curriculum emphasizes a "learn-it-today, use-it-tomorrow" approach, ensuring you can implement the best strategies and tactics to reach key audiences effectively.

Taught by a diverse faculty of marketing directors, academics, and entrepreneurs who are recognized leaders in their fields, this program offers a rich learning experience that blends theoretical knowledge with real-world application.

  • Comprehensive IMC Strategy: Develop a deep understanding of integrated marketing communications tailored for higher education.
  • Student Recruitment: Learn effective techniques for attracting and engaging prospective students.
  • Institutional Branding: Master the art of building and maintaining a strong institutional brand.
  • Practical Skills: Gain hands-on experience with a curriculum designed for immediate application.
  • Expert Faculty: Learn from industry leaders with extensive experience in marketing and higher education.

Curriculum

Prepare for a dynamic career in higher education marketing with the Higher Education Marketing Graduate Certificate. You'll learn to implement a comprehensive, integrated marketing communications strategy tailored for institutions of higher learning. Dive into coursework rooted in data and analysis, focusing on marketing to higher education audiences, planning impactful campaigns, developing engaging content for prospective students, and leveraging social media to reach your target audience.

Certificate Code - CG52

Certificate Requirements: Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 required.
Minimum grade of C- required in all courses provided that a cumulative 2.75 GPA is maintained.

  • IMC 539: Content Marketing, 3 credit hours
  • IMC 541: Social Media and Marketing, 3 credit hours
  • IMC 545: Diversity & Inclusion in IMC, 3 credit hours
  • IMC 547: Higher Education Marketing, 3 credit hours
Total Hours: 12

Admissions Events

Learn more about the online marketing and communications programs offered by the College of Creative Arts and Media by attending an upcoming virtual information session.

Admissions Requirements and Eligibility

Admission to the program is based on a holistic, case-by-case analysis of the applicant’s academic record (undergraduate transcript), years of relevant professional experience (resume), and writing ability and intent (personal statement).

Admissions Process and How to Apply

  • Designate your Admission Type as Graduate Certificate. Under Intended Program, select Higher Education Marketing (CG52). The primary delivery method is ONLINE.
  • Pay the $60 non-refundable graduate application fee.
  • Submit 300-500 word personal statement about your interest in the IMC program and how it will meet your career objectives.
  • Submit resume that illustrates relevant and professional experience. Please convert your resume to PDF to ensure that no formatting is altered.
  • Letters of Recommendation (optional). Input the name and contact information of each recommendation provider in the “Recommendations – Recommendation Providers list” section.
  • GRE or GMAT scores (optional). The destination code for the GRE is 5904 and the GMAT is C2S-FB-24.
  • TOEFL or IELTS Scores for International Students. WVU requires international students to submit their TOEFL or IELTS scores directly to WVU Hub, 62 Morrill Way - Suite 220, Morgantown, WV 26506. Use the destination code 5904 to have TOEFL scores sent. Generally, applicants whose first language is not English must submit adequate TOEFL or IELTS results before an application can be considered for admission: TOEFL (Internet-Based) = 79; TOEFL (Computer-Based = 213; TOEFL (Paper-Based) = 550; IELTS = 6.5.
  • Request official transcripts from all institutions attended (other than WVU) and mail to:
Questions? Contact our Enrollment Specialist at wvuimc@mail.wvu.edu or (304) 293-6278.

How to Apply

Tuition, Fees and Financial Aid

Since certificates are considered non-degree-seeking programs, they don't qualify for financial aid. However, many certificate programs allow you to transition into a full degree, at which point financial aid can be applied.

Tuition and fees are usually not the only educational expenses you may have while pursuing a degree. You may have other costs such as books, supplies, and living expenses. Visit the Estimate Costs and Aid webpage to estimate and plan for other potential expenses.

Tuition per credit hour is listed on the page of your program of interest. Please note, tuition and fees are reviewed and subject to change at the start of each academic year.


Connect with an Admissions Coach

Brynne Myers Admissions Consultant

(304) 293-6278 Brynne.Myers@mail.wvu.edu

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Careers and Employment

The Higher Education Marketing Graduate Certificate prepares you for a career utilizing integrated marketing communications strategies for student recruitment and institutional branding initiatives.

Career Paths

  • Marketing Manager
  • Marketing Strategist
  • Public Relations Specialist
  • Enrollment Marketing Specialist
  • Marketing Director
  • Marketing Communications Director
  • VP of Enrollment Marketing
  • Director of Student Recruitment
  • Communications Director
  • Content Specialist
  • Content Strategist

Get in Touch

The WVU Online team is here for you during your online learning journey. We can help you navigate the curriculum of your program of interest, understand the application process, and keep you posted on upcoming events and deadlines.

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