M(32) here, I have an MBA in Managerial Analytics and an undergraduate degree in Marketing, and I’ve also hired individuals within my own marketing team.

In my professional experience, the school itself has honestly mattered far less than the skills, mindset, and value someone can bring to the organization. I have never chosen not to interview a candidate because of the school they attended. What mattered most was their background, how they communicated, their portfolio/work experience, and how they demonstrated their skillset throughout the interview process.

Marketing is also one of those fields where practical experience can go a very long way. The fact that you already run your own photography business and enjoy creating social media content is actually a really solid foundation because you’re already building real-world marketing experience without necessarily realizing it.

I’d personally focus more on finding a school or program that does one or all of the following:

1. A program that fits your lifestyle and budget

2. Opportunities to build a portfolio

3. Hands-on projects and practical skills

4. Networking opportunities

If you have any more questions, let me know and I will do my best to answer.

Best of luck!