Marketing
The Degree
Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.)
The Outlook
According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, opportunities for employment in marketing-related fields such as advertising, promotions, public relations, and sales is expected to increase faster than the average for all of these occupations through 2014. This need is spurred by intense domestic and global competition in products and services offered to consumers. To succeed in a career in marketing, students need to understand the relationship between the business world and the changing demographics of the workforce and consumers. Coursework focusing on the latest business trends combined with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience through a business internship brings this relationship into focus.
The Program
The Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree in Marketing is a new and growing program at Finger Lakes Community College that provides several advantages to students. Most of the required business courses have no more than twenty students, providing the opportunity for students and faculty to get to know each other. A student in this program has a name, not just a number, and academic advisement is given a high priority. The versatility of the degree prepares students for a variety of jobs which are readily available upon graduation.
Honors courses: The College offers honors courses that provide enhanced educational experiences for students who have demonstrated outstanding academic ability. Enrollment in honors courses is open to qualified students enrolled in this degree program, as well as all other qualified FLCC students. Successful completion of honors courses or an Honors Certificate may increase student transfer options to four-year institutions.
The Experience
Through optional internships at area businesses such as Wegman’s, Wal-Mart, J.C. Penney, and Tops, students will have the opportunity to develop their work ethic and network with members of the business world for up to two semesters while attending Finger Lakes Community College.
Field trips: Trips to Eaton Centre in Toronto, Eastview Mall in Rochester, Market Street in Corning, and other business locations make for meaningful connections between classroom theory and real-life situations.
The Graduates
Graduates of the Marketing degree program are often hired for entry-level management and marketing positions at both small, local businesses and large, national chains. The knowledge and work experience gained during their course of study can help graduates move into higher levels of management. Still others may decide to start their own small businesses.
Transfer Opportunities: Though the program is not specifically designed for students who wish to transfer to four-year institutions, some students choose to do so, building on their knowledge to complete baccalaureate degrees in business-related fields. Some local four-year institutions offering transfer opportunities include Rochester Institute of Technology, St. John Fisher College, Nazareth College, and SUNY Geneseo.
The Scholarships
Students who meet specific award criteria are eligible for the Finger Lakes Business Scholarship, the Martin Schneider Canandaigua Rotary Scholarship, and a variety of other scholarships. For details, contact a member of the Business Department or the Financial Aid Office.
The Faculty
The Marketing program coordinator holds a Master of Business Administration degree and has over twenty years of sales and business management experience. He is also a past President and current Regional Vice President of the Association of Marketing Educators.