Earn an Online Marketing Master’s Degree in Chicago
Are you ready to elevate your marketing career in one of America’s most dynamic business hubs? Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications offers an exceptional online Master of Science in Integrated Marketing Communications (IMC) Professional program with deep connections to Chicago’s thriving business community. Our IMC Professional program combines the flexibility of online learning and optional in-person immersive experiences with the networking power of one of the world’s great marketing cities.
In this program, you’ll gain and hone cutting-edge marketing skills while building valuable connections throughout Illinois’ vibrant business ecosystem. If you are looking to advance your marketing career, our program offers the perfect blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience—all backed by Northwestern University’s expertise and prestigious reputation.
What Is Integrated Marketing Communications?
Integrated marketing communications represents the evolution of traditional marketing into a comprehensive, multi-channel approach that ensures consistent messaging across all consumer touchpoints. This strategic framework integrates advertising, public relations, direct marketing, social media and digital communications to create cohesive brand experiences that resonate with today’s sophisticated consumers.
In a fragmented media landscape, organizations need marketing leaders who understand how to create unified strategies that work across platforms. An IMC Professional degree provides the analytical framework, creative thinking skills and technical knowledge to develop campaigns that cut through the noise and deliver measurable results. Our graduates become sought-after marketing executives and trailblazers who can seamlessly blend traditional and digital tactics to build powerful brand narratives.
Medill’s IMC Professional Program Overview
Northwestern’s Medill IMC Professional program offers a flexible path to an advanced marketing degree that accommodates working professionals. This comprehensive program can be completed entirely online or with optional on-site components over approximately two years. The curriculum is continually updated to reflect the rapidly evolving marketing landscape, ensuring you graduate with relevant, in-demand skills.
Medill’s approach goes beyond teaching isolated marketing tactics. We equip students with a strategic mindset to develop and implement cohesive IMC strategies that align with organizational goals. Our faculty includes both distinguished academics and industry practitioners who bring real-world experience directly to your online classroom.
Immersive Courses
While the program can be completed entirely online, students have the invaluable opportunity to participate in immersion sessions across the country and around the globe. This includes elective immersion courses in Chicago. These optional week-long experiences bring online learners together for collaborative projects, networking events and face-to-face instruction with faculty.
Each completed immersive elective earns you a full credit toward your degree.
Online Marketing Course Information
Our curriculum provides a solid foundation in marketing principles while offering specialized knowledge in cutting-edge practices.
Core courses include:
- Financial Accounting
- IMC Strategic Process
- Marketing Research
Beyond these fundamentals, you can tailor your learning experience through elective courses in specialized areas such as:
- Social Media Marketing
- Content Strategy
- Brand Management
- Data Analytics and Visualization
- Marketing Technology
- B2B Marketing
This customizable approach ensures your degree aligns with your career aspirations and interests within the marketing field.
Student Support and Resources
As an online student, you’ll have comprehensive access to Northwestern’s vast academic resources, including digital libraries, academic journals, marketing databases and proprietary research tools. Our learning management system provides a seamless experience for accessing course materials, submitting assignments and collaborating with peers.
The IMC Student Leadership Committee offers professional development opportunities through virtual and in-person events, connecting you with alumni and industry leaders. Our dedicated career services team provides personalized guidance, resume reviews, interview preparation and job search assistance tailored to the marketing industry. As an online student, you’ll receive the same level of support as our on-campus learners.
Why Get an Online Marketing Master’s From a University in Chicago?
Chicago stands out as a powerhouse in the marketing and advertising world, home to major agencies like Leo Burnett, Edelman and FCB, along with the headquarters of global brands such as McDonald’s, United Airlines and Walgreens. The city’s vibrant marketing ecosystem creates unparalleled opportunities for networking and career advancement.
While our online program provides flexibility, the Chicago connection offers distinct advantages:
- Access to Northwestern’s extensive alumni network throughout Illinois and beyond.
- Opportunities to attend Chicago-based marketing conferences and industry events.
- Potential internships and project work with local companies.
- Networking events with Chicago marketing professionals.
- Regular guest lectures from local industry leaders.
Even as an online student, you’ll benefit from Medill’s deep connections to Chicago’s marketing community, opening doors that might otherwise remain closed.
From Medill to Marketing Success—Chicago Alumni Stories
Our graduates consistently secure leadership positions at top Chicago-based companies, leveraging both their IMC education and Northwestern’s powerful regional network.
Angel Martinez, IMC23, attended Northwestern as an undergraduate. He was drawn to the IMC Professional program’s reputation for marrying art with science in marketing. He also appreciated the ability to strengthen connections to professionals in Chicago and around the globe.
“[The program] has allowed me to connect with people who are not only in Chicago, but across the country, across the world.”
Tifair Hamed, IMC23, serves as chief growth officer of technology-focused nonprofit P33 Chicago and notes her career trajectory was transformed by the IMC Professional program. She also grew her network through the experience, working with marketers in and out of the agency world.
“The network at Northwestern is amazing. They’re going through the same thing that you’re going through while you’re trying to build your career. They become family, and they want to see you win.”
How to Enroll in Our Online Marketing Master’s Program
Starting your journey toward an online marketing master’s degree is straightforward. Our admissions team is dedicated to helping you navigate the process with these simple steps:
- Complete the online application through our secure portal, including your professional statement and professional goals
- Submit required documentation, including official transcripts from previous academic institutions
- Provide professional references who can speak to your potential for success in the program
- Complete an interview with our admissions committee (if requested)
Application deadlines vary by quarter, with programs starting in January and September. We encourage early application as spaces in our cohorts fill quickly.
Our admissions outreach advisors can answer questions about the application process or how this program can help you achieve your professional goals.
Application Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Professional resume demonstrating at least three years of post-graduate work experience
- Two letters of recommendation
- Professional statement
- Application fee of $100
Frequently Asked Questions
What career paths are available with a Master’s in Integrated Marketing Communications?
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Find Us in Chicago
Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications
1845 Sheridan Road
Evanston, IL 60208-2101