Certificate in Social Media Marketing
Hours: 12 On-Campus Online
About
The Certificate in Social Media Marketing at Fort Hays State University is designed for students from non-marketing backgrounds who want to develop essential skills for success in today’s digital landscape. This certificate equips individuals with the tools necessary to effectively promote their personal brand, business, or professional work, making it a valuable asset for both academic and career advancement. The curriculum includes four courses that cover the core principles of marketing, digital marketing, and social media marketing.
Why pursue a Certificate in Social Media Marketing at Fort Hays State University?
The Certificate in Social Media Marketing offers non-marketing majors a valuable opportunity to acquire essential digital marketing skills that are immediately applicable across various professional fields. Structured to complement majors such as graphic design, communication, and agricultural business, this certificate enables students to enhance their primary area of study with in-demand marketing expertise. With high-quality instruction and a carefully crafted curriculum, FHSU demonstrates a commitment to delivering education that aligns with current industry standards.
Who is this program for?
Students aiming to enhance their digital marketing expertise, especially in non-marketing fields, will find this certificate highly beneficial.
- Students pursuing majors including, but not limited to, graphic design, art, communication, or agricultural business
- Professionals looking to expand their knowledge of social media marketing
- Individuals interested in managing their own business or personal brand
- Students wanting to complement their major with practical marketing skills
- Those seeking a flexible, accessible certificate that fits their busy schedules
Real-World Applications
Instructors may assign projects such as developing a social media marketing strategy for a small business, creating content calendars, or analyzing campaign performance using analytics tools. The certificate emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to apply their skills to projects aligned with their primary field of study. For example, a communication major might use social media marketing expertise to manage a public relations campaign. At the same time, a graphic design student could focus on producing visually engaging content for social media platforms.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
In today’s fast-paced digital marketing landscape, staying ahead of the curve is essential. Fort Hays State University equips students with practical skills and strategic insights needed to succeed in this dynamic field.
The curriculum builds a strong foundation in current tools and techniques while emphasizing the importance of lifelong learning and adaptability. Students are encouraged to stay informed about emerging trends and continually refine their expertise to maintain a competitive edge in the evolving world of digital marketing.
Hands-on Activities
Each course within the certificate incorporates practical assignments that challenge students to apply their knowledge to real-world situations. Examples include developing social media content strategies, creating digital advertisements, and analyzing social media metrics using advanced analytics tools.
Beyond individual tasks, the certificate also provides opportunities for collaborative projects, enabling students to work in teams to address complex marketing challenges. Students complete the certificate with a strong portfolio showcasing their ability to plan, manage, and execute effective social media marketing campaigns, making them desirable candidates to potential employers.
What You’ll Learn:
- Social media marketing fundamentals
- Strategic web design principles
- Target marketing and branding basics
- Social media analytics tools
- Content marketing best practices
- Digital advertising strategies
How You’ll Learn:
- Engage in real-world projects
- Learn from industry-experienced professors
- Participate in hands-on simulations
- Apply concepts in your current field of study
- Gain skills in digital advertising and search engine optimization (SEO)
- Develop content marketing strategies
Students start by establishing a strong foundation in essential marketing concepts, including target marketing, branding, and positioning. The certificate then advances to more specialized topics, including digital advertising, search engine optimization (SEO), and the strategic use of social media platforms. It concludes with a comprehensive focus on content creation and the use of analytics tools to measure and enhance the effectiveness of social media campaigns.
MKT 301: Marketing Principles
A study of the principles and practices of the marketing function. Includes a survey of both consumer and industrial products, the channels through which they are distributed, and the promotion and pricing procedures followed by modern business
MKT 609: Digital Marketing
This course examines the fundamental principles that underlie marketing and how e-business marketing techniques will significantly transform the traditional marketing process. Students prepare for careers in a rapidly changing environment of non-linear, online, interactive advertising; new product development and distribution processes; and reliance on databases. Students will learn how to use the internet technologies necessary for executing a marketing strategy.
MKT 610: Social Media Marketing
This course focuses on current strategies and tactics for effectively and efficiently deploying social media tools within the marketing function. It is designed to provide students with hands-on experience, with an emphasis on a strategic approach to social media marketing. Conceptual foundations and practical techniques necessary for creating a comprehensive and effective social media marketing plan are incorporated.
MKT 611: Social Media Marketing Content and Analysis
This course intends to examine how marketers use both verbal and visual content to convey the value, build brands, and connect with customers, as well as track the appropriate social media marketing metrics to understand better how and when to share information, as well as what type of content drives the most traffic to a website.
Discover the full Certificate in Social Media Marketing course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Students who complete the certificate unlock a wide range of career opportunities. The skills and knowledge acquired through this certificate prepare professionals to succeed in various roles across the digital marketing and communications industries. Some potential career paths include:
Social Media Manager
Social media managers develop and execute strategies that align with a company’s brand and goals. They play a key role in building and maintaining a brand’s online presence, making this a highly sought-after role in today’s digital landscape.
Digital Marketing Specialist
Digital marketing specialists oversee a range of online marketing initiatives, including SEO, email marketing, advertising, and content marketing. They apply their digital strategy and analytics skills to drive traffic, boost brand awareness, and generate leads.
Brand Manager
Brand managers guide and protect a company’s brand image, making strategic decisions based on market trends and consumer behavior. They develop marketing strategies, oversee campaigns, and ensure consistent messaging across all channels to engage their audiences effectively.
Marketing Coordinator
Marketing coordinators help plan and execute campaigns, collaborating with teams to align efforts with the company's goals. The practical experience gained through the certificate prepares students for the fast-paced and dynamic nature of this role.
Content Creator
Content creators develop engaging content for social media, blogs, websites, and other digital platforms. Students who complete the certificate are prepared to create content that captures attention and supports overall marketing strategies.
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $2,444.76* (on-campus) or $3,180.60* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 12 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (265.05/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
Students interested in the Certificate in Social Media Marketing may also explore related programs offered by the Department of Applied Business Studies and other departments, such as:
- Certificate in Marketing
- Certificate in Business Development and Sales
- Certificate in Basic Graphic Design
- Minor in Public Relations and Advertising
- Certificate in Agricultural Business
This certificate complements your current major by providing essential marketing skills that directly apply to your field of study, thereby enhancing your overall career prospects.
Yes, students can choose the mode of study that best fits their schedule and learning preferences, as the certificate offers both online and on-campus options.
Students engage in various hands-on projects, including creating social media content, developing marketing strategies, and analyzing campaign performance using advanced analytics tools.
Yes, the Certificate in Social Media Marketing includes opportunities to earn professional certifications related to social media marketing, adding valuable credentials to your resume.
Online students can access the same resources as on-campus students, including academic advising, technical support, and opportunities to connect with instructors and peers through virtual platforms.
Information about the Department of Applied Business Studies
The Department of Applied Business Studies at FHSU is dedicated to preparing students for successful careers in business by aligning individual strengths and goals with the evolving needs of the global marketplace. Whether pursuing a degree on-campus or online, students benefit from programs that emphasize practical business knowledge, real-world case studies, and forward-thinking decision-making skills essential for today’s dynamic business environment.
The department offers a diverse range of academic pathways, including business education, marketing, and tourism and hospitality management. Its immersive curriculum, delivered by faculty who remain actively engaged with current industry trends, equips students with the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to succeed across a variety of sectors, from local enterprises to international organizations. FHSU graduates are consistently in high demand, reflected in strong job placement rates and a network of successful alumni.
While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.
- Collegiate DECA: An international organization for students and educators in the fields of business, finance, hospitality, and marketing. It prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs through co-curricular programs that blend classroom learning with real-world experiences and professional networking opportunities.
- Pi Omega Pi - Business Education Club: The National Business Education Teacher Honor Society is dedicated to promoting academic excellence and service within the field of business education. The organization encourages scholarship, leadership, and professional development among students preparing for careers in business teaching.
- Eta Sigma Delta - International Hospitality Management Society: Recognizes hospitality and tourism students for their exceptional academic achievement, service, and professionalism. The organization provides valuable networking opportunities and fosters connections among students, industry executives, educators, and peers.
- THM Travel Club: Supports domestic and international travel experiences for students in tourism and hospitality. Through participation, members gain practical skills in travel planning, budgeting, organization, and fundraising, offering a well-rounded perspective on career opportunities within the tourism and hospitality industry.
- Certificate
- On-Campus
- Online
