Marketing
About the Program
Ready to turn your passion for marketing into a career? At Southwest Minnesota State University, our Marketing program gives you the skills employers want—analysis, strategy development, and cutting-edge communication tools. You’ll learn the latest technology and trends shaping the marketing world, all while receiving personalized attention from faculty who are committed to your success. With a wide range of courses and electives, you can tailor your education to fit your goals and graduate prepared to thrive in today’s competitive marketplace.
Activities & Opportunities
Your education doesn’t stop in the classroom! As a Marketing major, you can join exciting programs like Global Studies, ENACTUS, AMA, and SMAC, where you’ll sharpen your marketing skills and gain real-world experience. These activities help you build leadership, creativity, and confidence—giving you a competitive edge before you even enter the job market. Get involved, make connections, and start shaping your future today!

Build the Skills Employers Want
In today’s competitive global marketplace, strong communication skills—both written and verbal—are essential for success. As a Marketing major at SMSU, you’ll learn how to gather and analyze information to make smart business decisions and create effective plans. You’ll dive into market research, study the business environment, evaluate competition, and assess a company’s strengths and challenges. Beyond analysis, you’ll develop the creativity needed to craft innovative solutions and strategies. Our comprehensive courses are designed to give you the tools and confidence to stand out as a top candidate in the business world.
Majors & Minors
- Major - Bachelor of Science: Marketing
- Major - Bachelor of Applied Science: Marketing
- Minor - Advertising Design Communication
- Minor - Marketing
Clubs & Organizations
- Southwest Marketing Advisory Center
- SMSU American Marketing Association Collegiate
- ENACTUS
- Graphic Design Club
- Accounting Club
Southwest Marketing Advisory Center
As a Marketing major at SMSU, you have the chance to take your classroom knowledge into the real world by working with the Southwest Marketing Advisory Center (SMAC). SMAC partners with local businesses, government agencies, and civic organizations to complete real marketing research projects—giving you hands-on experience that sets you apart. Students selected for SMAC positions earn an hourly wage 22% above minimum and often take on leadership roles, managing and coordinating projects with both private and public entities. Since 2002, SMAC has employed over 120 students, paid out more than $500,000 in wages, and generated over $1 million in revenue. Past clients include federal agencies, U.S. Senate committees, Minnesota legislative commissions, and major corporations. Plus, scholarship opportunities are available for SMAC employees. This is your chance to build your resume, grow your professional network, and make an impact before you graduate!
AMA Student Chapter
Looking to take your marketing skills beyond the classroom? The SMSU American Marketing Association (AMA) Collegiate Chapter gives you hands-on experiences that prepare you for success after graduation. As a member, you’ll dive into fundraising, community service, social events, and educational activities that make learning fun and practical. You’ll visit local businesses, hear from industry professionals during guest lectures, and gain insider tips on career opportunities. AMA membership isn’t just about learning—it’s about building your network, making friends, and opening doors to internships and jobs. Plus, being part of AMA connects you to the Southwest Marketing Advisory Center, where real-world projects and paid positions await. Join AMA and start shaping your future in marketing today!
Placement Opportunities
As a Marketing major at SMSU, you’ll have the chance to gain real-world experience through our internship program—often paid and always valuable. Internships combine practical business experience with academic credit, typically requiring full-time work in a marketing role for one semester, often during the summer. This is your opportunity to put classroom theories, concepts, and strategies into action. Many of our students turn their internships into full-time careers with their sponsoring organizations. It’s more than an internship—it’s your first step toward a successful future in marketing.
- Advertising Executive
- Product Management
- Retailing
- Purchasing
- Public Relations
- Marketing Research
- International Marketing
- Sales
Contact Information
Marketing Program - Office
ST 201, Southwest Minnesota State University
1501 State St.
Marshall, MN 56258
- Telephone: 507-537-6223
- Email: bis@smsu.edu

FRESHMAN ADMISSION PROCESS
- Complete Application
- $20 Non-refundable Application Fee
- Official High School Transcript(s)
- ACT or SAT Test Scores
FRESHMAN ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
- Rank in the upper half of graduating class
- OR
- Score a composite of 21 or above on the ACT or 990 on the SAT
Last Modified: 11/21/25 4:58 PM | Website Feedback
