Localize Your School Search
Degrees and Schools
Many schools offer bachelor's degrees in marketing and related subjects. Some market researchers obtain an advanced degree in marketing, statistics, communications, business administration or in a related subject.
Some schools help students find an externship with a consulting firm, a market research company, a government agency, a financial institution or another type of applicable organization. Externships provide valuable experience and networking opportunities.
The Marketing Research Association provides a certification program for professional researchers who want to demonstrate their expertise.
Classes
Market research analysts typically study the following subjects:
- Marketing
- Consumer behavior
- Business
- Sampling theory and survey design
- Statistics
- Mathematics
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Computer science
Online Classes and Programs
Online courses are available in marketing, statistics, business, mathematics, consumer behavior and other applicable topics to the occupation. Students should look for online courses provided by schools which have accreditation from agencies approved by the Council for Higher Education or the United States Department of Education.
Employment Requirements
Usually, a bachelor's degree is sufficient for an entry-level market research job. A master's degree may be required for some jobs, especially technical positions.
The top job providing sectors are advertising agencies, marketing research firms, public relations firms, financial services organizations, healthcare institutions, public opinion polling companies, insurance carriers, computer systems design and related services, industrial firms and trade associations.
How to Evaluate Schools and Programs
The answers to the following questions can help students select the appropriate school:
- Training - Do students have a variety of externship choices?
- School's Reputation - Is the school recognized for its marketing programs? What kind of reputation does the school have with advertising agencies and marketing research firms?
- Job Placement - Are students provided job placement services? Does the school provide job fairs? Do representatives of advertising agencies and marketing research firms recruit students at the school?
- Curriculum - What type of electives are offered? Can students select an area of specialization?
- Financial Aid - Does the school provide financial aid? Is the school qualified to provide federal financial aid?
- Accreditation - Is the school accredited by an agency which has been approved by the the United States Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education?
Market Research Analysts Job Description
Basically, market research analysts research what types of products customers want, research what types of people will purchase them and at what price. They're responsible for determining the demand for potential products and services. Some marketing research personnel also assist a company in creating or modifying sales procedures and policies.
A market research analyst helps companies decide if they should manufacture and sell a particular product. They also help companies determine what types of advertising media will be most effective for selling a particular item. They're also involved in determining names for products. A market research analyst needs good written, analytical and communication skills and should be detailed oriented.
Shown below are some of the responsibilities of market research analysts:
- Research market conditions in national, regional and local areas
- Consult with clients in order to understand their business goals
- Collect data on competitors and examine competitors prices, sales, and methods of marketing and distribution
- Perform comprehensive data analysis
- Monitor industry statistics
- Assist in developing questionnaires and moderator guides which are used to collect data
- Create and evaluate methods and procedures for gathering data
- Collect information to help a company discover its position in the marketplace
Resources
Online Course Finder
Find the path to your
education in 3 easy steps.
