The Industry

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, professionals working in marketing at a senior level make an average of $131,180 a year. In 2016, the lowest 10 percent earned less than $67,490, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $208,000. Similarly, the employment rate of marketing managers is expected to grow 9 percent from 2016 to 2026, higher than the national average. Marketing positions are highly desirable and are often sought by other managers and experienced professionals. These statistics demonstrate the high demand for advanced professionals in the marketing field.

In order to make the most of your IMC education and career, here’s a look at how you can use the next 10 years to establish and enhance your career:

• In the first year of an IMC program as a working professional, notice how your classes enhance your job performance by increasing your inter-sectional knowledge within marketing as a discipline and business as a whole. For an IMC student who goes straight to a graduate program after earning their bachelor’s, these classes will be vital as you learn your new role. For an IMC student who is already in their professional career, your classes serve to hone your already developed skills and allow you to learn new skills.

• Five years after graduating from an IMC program, expect to continue honing your skills that you learned in graduate school. Now, you can work your way up to a senior role in your given industry. You might consider mentoring other IMC students as they work to establish themselves as professionals as well as facilitating your own networking relationships.

• After 10 years experience, you can expect to be considered for management positions and might also be expected to oversee and contribute to the formation of new professionals. At this point in your career, it is important to remember and continue the hard work that got you there and to consider paying it forward to first-year or entry-level professionals.

WVU Marketing Communications Network

Are you a current student or alumni of our programs? Check out exclusive job postings, earn achievement badges, and use the directory through the WVU MC Network!