Marketing graduates earn a median $42,154 Across 866 US programmes, two years after finishing
See the degree grade →This bachelor's programme trains students in the practical and analytical skills used in sales, merchandising and broader marketing operations, combining classroom study with applied projects and workplace experience. It suits students who want to work in retail, consumer goods, e-commerce or B2B sales and who value hands‑on learning in an urban business environment.
The programme blends core marketing theory with applied coursework in sales, merchandising and marketing operations. You will study consumer behaviour, principles of marketing, retail management, merchandising and assortment planning, sales techniques, promotions and visual merchandising. Complementary modules typically cover market research and analytics, digital marketing and e‑commerce, pricing strategy, supply chain fundamentals and inventory management.
Programme structure combines general education in the liberal arts, required major courses, free electives and experiential learning. Many students complete capstone projects, real client briefs or industry practicums, and there is a strong emphasis on developing quantitative skills (basic statistics and data interpretation), presentation skills and use of industry tools for point‑of‑sale, inventory and analytics.
Admission to CUNY bachelor programmes typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and submission of official transcripts. Applicants are expected to demonstrate competency in English and mathematics; strong preparation in writing, economics or business‑related subjects is advantageous. Transfer applicants must provide collegiate transcripts showing satisfactory progress in previous coursework.
International applicants who are non‑native English speakers will need to meet CUNY's language proficiency requirements through recognised tests or approved institutional waivers. In addition to academic credentials, successful applicants often show extracurricular interest in business or retail, work experience, or demonstrated commitment to community and professional activities.
Graduates pursue a wide range of roles across retail, consumer packaged goods, wholesale distribution, e‑commerce and services. Typical entry and mid‑level positions include sales representative, merchandising assistant or buyer, retail manager, marketing coordinator, e‑commerce specialist, account manager and market research analyst. With experience, alumni move into roles such as category manager, retail operations manager, brand manager or sales director.
The programme also prepares students for graduate study in marketing, business administration or related fields and provides transferable skills for entrepreneurship, product management and supply chain roles. Students benefit from networking opportunities with New York City employers and alumni when seeking internships and first jobs.
CUNY offers location advantages given its presence in New York City, a global hub for retail, media and consumer brands. This proximity provides access to internships, industry partnerships, guest speakers and site visits that enrich classroom learning.
The university system emphasises applied learning and affordability within a public university framework. Students gain from diverse peer cohorts, faculty with practitioner and research experience, career services focused on employer connections and opportunities to engage with small and large firms across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens and beyond.
CUNY programmes balance theoretical foundations with practical training, preparing graduates to step into operational roles in sales, merchandising and marketing or to continue into specialised postgraduate study.
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