How to Become a Digital Marketing Manager in 2025: Courses, Best Universities and Salary

Last Updated on January 7, 2025

Wondering how to become a successful digital marketing manager in 2025? Well, our blog is a practical guide for all your queries related to digital marketing. From covering the responsibilities associated with a digital marketing manager profile to the courses required to become one, we have got you covered!

What is Digital Marketing? 

A digital marketing manager must understand the nuts and bolts of digital marketing and why it is replacing traditional marketing. 

Digital marketing, unlike traditional marketing, promotes products and services online using websites, search engines, email, social media, and mobile apps. The advertising may be done via mail, blog, article, video, or a simple infographic. It is a rapidly growing field due to the following reasons-

1. People now spend more time on digital channels; thus businesses have come to use platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat for marketing their products and services. 
2. Helps businesses keep better track of their growth and make more data-driven decisions by using the insights provided to them by often a digital marketing manager.
3. Digital marketing enables the right information to reach the right audience without incurring high costs.

Also Read: 7 Best Countries To Study Digital Marketing

Digital Marketing Manager Job Description

Different businesses may have varying digital marketing objectives, leading to different expectations from a digital marketing manager. However, let’s gloss over some standard key responsibilities and skills required to be a digital marketing manager. 

Roles and Responsibilities of a Digital Marketing Manager

1. Developing digital marketing strategies. 
2. Executing and managing digital marketing campaigns across various channels.
3. Doing market research and competitor analysis.
4. Analyse website traffic, user behaviour, and campaign performance to measure ROI and make data-driven decisions.
5. Creating relevant content and managing it.
6. Collaborating with design and development teams
7. Manage budgets and allocate resources effectively.
8. Stay updated on the latest digital marketing trends, tools, and technologies.

Skills Required As A Digital Marketing Manager

As a digital marketing manager don’t forget to prioritise the development of soft skills as much as technical skills. While technical skills are crucial for the business, soft skills are vital for effective teamwork.

Important Technical Skills for a Digital Marketing Manager

Here are some technical skills to look into while learning digital marketing-

1. Search Engine Optimisation
2. PPC Advertising 
3. Social Media Marketing
4. Content Marketing
5. Email Marketing 
6. Analytics
7. Customer Relationship Management 

Important Soft Skills for a Digital Marketing Manager

Here are some soft skills to look into while learning digital marketing-

1. Creativity 
2. Problem-Solving 
3. Communication
4. Analytical Thinking
5. Adaptability 
6. Time Management 
7. Leadership

How to Become a Digital Marketing Manager in India?

Despite the proliferation of digital advertising and businesses in India, several Indian universities have not yet introduced proper degrees in digital marketing. However, don’t lose hope, as we have listed some essential steps to become a digital marketing manager in India successfully:

1. The first and most important step is to make sure you pursue a relevant degree, course, or certification. For example, you could consider a degree in business administration, marketing, or a related field. If you have already completed a bachelor’s degree in a different subject, you may want to consider taking an online or short-term course instead.
2. The next step is to build experience starting with entry-level positions and gradually moving to higher positions.
3. Make sure to develop essential skills as well as mention them in your portfolio.
4. Start attending relevant networking events and job-hunting on platforms like Linkedin, Naukri, etc. 
5. Keep a tab on marketing trends and upskilling via certifications offered by Google, Udemy, Coursera etc.

Thus, becoming a digital marketing manager in India requires a strategic approach, often through targeted short-term courses and training programs.

Digital Marketing Degree in India

Digital marketing degrees typically include Bachelor’s and Master’s programs in digital marketing, marketing management with digital focus, and specialised certifications.

Many reputable institutions offer dedicated digital marketing degrees. Here are some of the top colleges:

College Name	Location	Course Offered	Entrance Exam	Fees (INR)
Indian School of Business (ISB)	Hyderabad	PG Program in Management with Digital Marketing	GMAT/CAT	28,00000 – 30,00,000
MICA (Mudra Institute of Communications Ahmedabad)	Ahmedabad	Post Graduate Diploma in Digital Marketing	MICA Entrance Test	8,00,000
Jamia Millia Islamia	New Delhi	MA in Digital Marketing	JMI Entrance Exam	40,000 – 50,000
Shiv Nadar University	Greater Noida	BBA in Digital Marketing	University Exam	3,00,000 – 4,00,000
Symbiosis Institute of Business Management (SIBM)	Pune	MBA in Digital Marketing	SNAP	7,00,000 – 8,00,000

Digital Marketing Courses in India

Online Digital Marketing Courses

Online digital marketing courses are popular among students and professionals alike, offering flexibility and convenience. These courses are designed to equip learners with essential skills in various aspects of digital marketing.

Duration: Usually, the duration spans from a few weeks to a month. 

Benefits of an Online Digital Marketing Course:

• Flexibility: Learn at your own pace and schedule.
• Wide Range of Topics Covered: SEO, social media marketing, content marketing, PPC, and analytics.
• Cost-Effective: Many online courses are more affordable than traditional classes.

Popular Online Platforms:

• Coursera: Offers courses in partnership with top universities and organisations.
• Udemy: Provides a variety of digital marketing courses at different price points.
• LinkedIn Learning: Focuses on professional development with expert-led courses.

Short-Term Digital Marketing Courses

Short-term courses are perfect for individuals seeking to quickly upskill or acquire specific knowledge in digital marketing, ideally in a classroom setting, without the need to commit to a full degree program.

Duration: Typically ranges from a few weeks to a few months.

Benefits of a Short-term Digital Marketing Course:

• In-Person Mentorship & Guidance: Get quick answers to your questions and discuss ideas with instructors and classmates for diverse perspectives.
• Networking Opportunities: Physical classes help you connect with peers and build valuable professional relationships.
• Actionable Learning: Gain hands-on experience through real projects to build a portfolio for potential employers.

Popular Institutes for Short-term Digital Marketing Courses:

• NIIT
• Manipal ProLearn
• IIDE
• SimpliLearn
• Digital Vidya

Note: In addition to private institutes, several IITs and colleges under Delhi University offer digital marketing courses with no strict prerequisites, available in both online and offline modes.

Scope of Digital Marketing in India

With more businesses shifting online, the demand for skilled digital marketers is at an all-time high. According to reports, the digital marketing industry in India is expected to reach USD 160 billion by 2025, creating numerous job opportunities.

Additionally, digital marketing offers a variety of career options, including:

Job Profile	Description	Average Salary in India
Digital Marketing Manager	Plan and execute all digital marketing-related activities for a brand.	8 LPA
SEO Specialist	Focuses on optimizing websites to rank higher on search engines.	5.12 LPA
Social Media Manager	Manages a brand’s social media presence and strategies.	4 LPA
Content Strategist	Develops and oversees content marketing plans.	12-17 LPA
PPC Specialist	Manages pay-per-click advertising campaigns.	5.6 LPA
Digital Marketing Analyst	Analyzes data to improve marketing strategies.	5-10 LPA

India’s vibrant startup ecosystem and the presence of multinational companies provide ample job opportunities in digital marketing. Startups often seek innovative marketers, while established companies look for experienced professionals to enhance their digital strategies.

FAQs

What do you need to be a digital marketing manager?

To become a digital marketing manager, you need a mix of technical skills (SEO, SEM, social media, analytics), creativity, and strategic thinking. Strong communication, project management, and leadership abilities are essential to lead teams and execute successful marketing campaigns across various digital platforms.

How long does it take to become a digital marketing manager?

Becoming a digital marketing manager typically takes 3 to 5 years, depending on experience. Starting with entry-level roles, such as a digital marketing assistant or coordinator, you gain hands-on experience. Progressing to managerial positions requires building expertise in digital tools and leading campaigns effectively over time.

What qualifications do I need for digital marketing?

A relevant degree (marketing, business, or communications) is helpful but not mandatory. Most digital marketing managers gain skills through hands-on experience and certifications, such as Google Analytics, Google Ads, or HubSpot. Practical knowledge of SEO, content strategy, and social media is crucial to succeed in this field.

Conclusion

Digital marketing is a rapidly growing field with a wide range of courses, degrees, and career opportunities available in India. Whether you’re considering online courses, short-term programs, or a full-fledged degree, there are ample options to equip you with the skills necessary to thrive in this dynamic industry. With the increasing demand for digital marketing professionals, now is an excellent time to pursue a career in this exciting field.