How to Choose an Internet Marketing School
When you’re looking for Internet marketing training, it’s not just about which schools offer courses. The real question is “how can I choose an Internet marketing school that is reputable, accredited and ideal for me?” You’ll be searching for a school that has a high-quality curriculum, fits your learning style and conveniently fits into your lifestyle. Beware of the numerous “get-rich-quick” programs and other scams that are out there. Only choose those schools or universities that provide you with proven Internet marketing techniques, practicing, real-world experts, advanced hands-on training and tools you can put to work immediately.
Top 5 Attributes to Look For in an Internet Marketing School
As you search for the best Internet marketing school for you, it’s important to keep in mind that not all programs are created equal, especially when you’re looking for an online program. Not only do you need to find a credible Internet marketing training program that will fulfill your learning needs, but you’ll also want to find one that fits your schedule. Although you may want to include other elements to your list as you’re searching for the ideal Internet marketing school for you, here are five important attributes to look for:
- Excellent Reputation
- Regional Accreditation/Accreditation
- Expertise
- Cutting-Edge Technology
- Convenient
What Type of Reputation Does the School Have?
Publilius Syrus’ quote from the first century B.C., “A good reputation is more valuable than money,” still holds true to this day. When you’re choosing an Internet marketing school, you want to be sure to select a reputable college or university. Look for a top-ranked, nationally recognized school, such as one exclusively rated by U.S. News & World Report. You will also want to choose a college or university trusted for a high-quality curriculum and a reputation for educational excellence. By asking fellow Internet marketers and reading student testimonials you can get a better idea about the school’s reputation.
Is the School Accredited?
You’ll want to opt for an Internet marketing school that is accredited. Why is accreditation so important? By being an accredited institution, it means the school has met or exceeded requirements as a quality institution of higher learning. You can narrow your list by selecting only those Internet marketing schools that are accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. That means they are accredited by the National Educational Association or one of the following six regional accrediting bodies:
- Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools – Educational institutions in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands, as well as schools for American children in Europe, North Africa and the Middle East.
- New England Association of Schools and Colleges – Educational institutions in the six New England states (Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont).
- North Central Association of Colleges and Schools – Educational institutions in Arkansas, Arizona, Colorado, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Dakota, Nebraska, Ohio, Oklahoma, New Mexico, South Dakota, Wisconsin, West Virginia and Wyoming.
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities – Postsecondary institutions (colleges and universities) in Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah and Washington.
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges – Educational institutions in California, Hawaii, Guam, American Samoa, Micronesia, Palau and Northern Marianas Islands.
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools – Educational institutions in Virginia, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, Tennessee and Texas.
Regional accreditation standards are more stringent than the national requirements, and therefore a higher form of accreditation. By choosing a regionally accredited Internet marketing school, you can be sure that your credits will transfer to another institution of higher learning and potential employers will know that you have a quality education.
Are the Courses Taught by Experts?
With a highly technical program like Internet marketing, you’ll want to learn from well-educated, industry experts. The course instructors should have impressive academic qualifications as well as plenty of workforce experience in the Internet marketing field. Ideally, the course instructors have also been at the forefront of the fast-paced, evolving Internet marketing industry and have remarkable results from their years of experience. Many instructors may also belong to industry groups, be on an advisory board or a board of directors, have additional industry-related certifications and/or be the recipient of honors or awards.
Does the Program Have Cutting-Edge Technology?
You should also evaluate the ease and functionality of the online learning technology. For example, lectures delivered via streaming video allow you to pause, rewind and replay presentations to ensure comprehension. The option to download MP4 video files and MP3 audio files means that you can listen to lessons on the go. Two-way voice over IP, instant messaging and shared virtual whiteboards allow you to interact with fellow classmates and instructors in real time. All of the advanced technology should be user-friendly and provide endless opportunities for you to access your courses.
Is the Program Going to be Convenient for Me?
If you’re a working professional, you want to be sure that the Internet marketing school you choose will be able to accommodate your busy schedule. Ideally, you will be able to take courses 100% online, when and where it’s convenient for you. This way, you can attain career-building credentials while continuing to keep up with your professional and personal obligations. Make sure that the program you choose allows you to have easy access to instructors and fellow students. A well-designed online Internet marketing program will provide multiple communication methods. Students should be able to connect with their teachers and classmates via dedicated message boards, chat rooms and email any time of the day or night. In addition, you should be able to get assistance via phone, email or live chat when you have questions or need technical support.
A Reputable Internet Marketing School With Flexibility and Mobility
You can experience end-to-end Internet marketing training at its finest 100% online with the University of San Francisco (USF). Established in 1855, the University of San Francisco is regionally accredited and nationally recognized for academic excellence as one of “America’s Best Colleges” by U.S. News & World Report. Whether you decide to attain the three-course Internet Marketing Certificate or want to get more specialized Internet marketing training, the University of San Francisco offers online Internet marketing courses taught by real-world Internet marketing experts. In addition, you’ll benefit from learning via a dynamic video-based e-learning platform anywhere, 24/7. You can attain the three-course Internet Marketing Certificate, as well as the following Advanced Certificate Programs:
Find Out What Students Have to Say About USF’s Internet Marketing Online Training
One of the best ways to discover how good an Internet marketing school is comes from the students themselves. Testimonials allow you to find out how other students like the university, courses, teachers, and so on. Here’s what students have to say about their online educational experience with the University of San Francisco’s Internet Marketing courses and certificate program:
- “I just wanted to say how thoroughly happy I am with the University of San Francisco’s Internet Marketing Certificate program. I began with a working knowledge of Internet marketing, and ended with an advanced (and highly marketable) set of skills in SEO, social media marketing, online PR, PPC advertising, keyword research, etc. A complete package.”
- “During the program, I paid for the entire course plus made a handsome profit as an Internet marketing consultant using the skills I was learning. I also received several job offers and landed a full-time position in the middle of this wretched recession as a direct result of the highly desirable skills I learned. I also have a book and training manual contract, and landed several speaking engagements. This program also encouraged me to launch five industry blogs, and several highly successful social media channels that have positioned me well in the marketing space. All this within six months of starting the course! The program has generated an incredible ROI for me, and the dividends have just begun to pay off. Would I recommend it? Without hesitation.”
Duane “DJ” Sprague
Sandy, UT - “I found the Internet Marketing Certificate program to be unparalleled in comparison to other training methods. It truly provides a comprehensive and detailed understanding of all aspects of Internet marketing. It has been a landmark and turning point in my career, and has helped me to become exceptionally skilled and remain up to date on the constant evolution of online marketing tactics. This program is indispensable to remaining competitive in today’s market.”
Madalena Phillips
New York, NY
Find out how you can enhance your Internet marketing experience with 100% online training from the University of San Francisco, a premier Internet marketing school!
