Should I do a Master’s in Marketing right after graduation or work for a few years and go for an MBA?

Question

Mansih K · Accepted Answer

Jumping into a Master&rsquo;s in Marketing right after college works if the aim is to start working fast in roles like marketing analyst or digital media associate. These programs usually don&rsquo;t need work experience and focus on real-world tools like SEO, Google Ads, and social media analytics.
But here&rsquo;s the difference:

Most of the roles after a Master&rsquo;s are junior, and career growth may take time.
If you work for 3&ndash;4 years first, you can apply for top MBAs like Kellogg or LBS, which lead to roles like marketing manager or brand lead at companies such as Nestl&eacute; or Amazon.
MBA graduates often start with salaries above $120K, especially in leadership roles.

So if someone wants to get into digital marketing, brand strategy, or content roles quickly, the Master&rsquo;s is a good option. But waiting and going for an MBA can lead to better roles and higher pay in the long run.  
For more details you can read this  blog on 'MBA vs MS"

Aarushi S · Answer

If you're deciding between a Master&rsquo;s in Marketing right after graduation or waiting for an MBA, go for the master&rsquo;s if your goal is to enter the marketing field quickly. It builds targeted skills like consumer insights, digital tools, and campaign strategy, ideal for roles like marketing analyst or brand assistant.
Fresh grads from top schools like ESADE or Columbia land roles like brand analyst, media planner, or growth marketing associate, often with salaries between $60K&ndash;$85K globally. It&rsquo;s a smart way to build a foundation and avoid delays in starting your career.
But if the long-term goal is to move into leadership, switch industries, or enter management-level roles, work experience followed by an MBA is more strategic. Just keep in mind that top MBA programs expect at least 2&ndash;3 years of solid work experience, ideally with results to show&mdash;not just any job.