Marketing is a people-oriented, dynamic business function that leads to goal-oriented exchanges between individuals and organizations. Important marketing activities include developing an idea, good or service intended to satisfy consumer wants and needs, promoting/advertising it to likely customers, selling it at a mutually agreeable price, and distributing it in acceptable locations.<br><br>The objectives of the marketing program are to teach students<br><br>The importance of marketing in an economy characterized by free consumer choice<br>The knowledge and skills required to perform marketing activities<br>The interaction between marketing and diverse environmental forces which impact marketing decisions.<br>The marketing student is prepared for a wide range of career opportunities in business and non-business, for-profit and not-for-profit organizations. Entry-level business positions serve as a step into professional selling and sales force management, pricing, product or brand management, social media marketing, advertising, market research, physical distribution, retail management and merchandising, sports and event marketing or purchasing. Marketing also provides a solid foundation for those who hope to own their own business in the future.<br><br>Careers in marketing often lead to high-level management positions. Non-business and not-for-profit organizations (hospitals, educational institutions and charitable groups) also seek well-trained marketing graduates.<br><br>When planning a program of study in this department, each student should be aware of the University's academic requirements and regulations contained in this catalog in the chapter Academic Information. Specific attention should be given to the subsections in the chapter entitled (a) Academic Programs, (b) Colonnade Requirements, and (c) Academic Requirements and Regulations. Students should be aware that some academic programs may require additional scholastic regulations and standards not specified in the catalog. To obtain a copy of these regulations, students should contact the department chair.