Is the Social Media Marketing Course Certification worth it today? Costs, salary & FAQ
Social media marketing is no longer optional it’s a core skill for businesses and marketers worldwide. With platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, and YouTube dominating digital engagement, certified social media professionals are in high demand. This blog explores whether a Social Media Marketing Course and Certification is worth it, what it covers, costs in Australia, and answers to common FAQs.
What is a Social Media Marketing Certification?
A Social Media Marketing Certification validates your ability to plan, execute, and measure social media campaigns across major platforms. Leading providers include:
- Meta Social Media Marketing Professional Certificate
- Duration: ~5 months, beginner-friendly
- Covers Facebook & Instagram Ads, content strategy, analytics
- Prepares you for Meta Certified Digital Marketing Associate exam
- Delivered via Coursera with hands-on projects and AI integration
- HubSpot Social Media Marketing Certification
- Free, ~5 hours
- Focuses on inbound social media strategy, ROI measurement, and content creation
- Includes 10 lessons, 38 videos, and 29 quizzes
- NISM Social Media Strategist (SMS)
- Advanced certification for professionals
- Covers strategy development, analytics, and team management
- Diploma of Social Media Marketing (Australia)
- Nationally recognised qualification
- Cost: $3,484–$8,000 depending on provider
- Duration: 12–18 months
- Offered by TAFE, Monarch Institute, Original Campus
Why is Social Media Marketing Certification so popular?
- Industry recognition
Certifications from Meta, HubSpot, and accredited Australian institutions are globally respected. - Career impact
Social media roles like Social Media Manager, Content Strategist, and Paid Ads Specialist are among the fastest-growing marketing jobs. - Free or affordable options
HubSpot and Meta offer free training; paid diplomas provide deeper, accredited learning.
Is Social Media Marketing Certification worth it today?
Yes especially if you want structured learning and a credential to validate your skills. Meta Blueprint and HubSpot certifications are widely recognised and help professionals stand out in competitive job markets. Australian diplomas add formal qualifications for career advancement.
Pros of Social Media Marketing Certification
- Job availability: Social media roles are in demand across industries.
- Global recognition: Meta and HubSpot credentials are respected worldwide.
- Flexible learning: Online, self-paced options available.
- Free entry-level courses: HubSpot and Meta offer free certifications.
Cons of Social Media Marketing Certification
- Cost for advanced programs: Diplomas cost $3,484–$8,000 in Australia.
- Exam requirements: Meta exams require passing scores (typically 700/1000).
- Constant updates: Social media algorithms and features change frequently.
Cost in Australia
- HubSpot Certification: Free
- Meta Blueprint Exam: ~USD $150–$200 (converted to AUD)
- Diploma of Social Media Marketing: $3,484–$8,000 depending on provider (TAFE, Monarch, Original Campus)
- Short courses: $560 for 1-day workshops (e.g., CCE Sydney)
Key topics covered in Social Media Marketing courses
- Social media strategy development
- Content creation (Posts, Stories, Reels, TikTok videos)
- Paid advertising on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn
- Audience targeting and segmentation
- Analytics and ROI measurement
- Influencer marketing and UGC campaigns
- Social listening and community management
Where to begin
- Start with free courses
HubSpot Social Media Marketing Certification or Meta Blueprint basics. - Advance to professional certifications
Meta Certified Digital Marketing Associate or NISM SMS. - Consider accredited diplomas
For formal qualifications and career pathways in Australia.
Is Social Media Marketing Certification enough to get a job?
It’s a strong credibility signal, but employers also expect portfolio evidence successful campaigns, engagement metrics, and ROI improvements. Combine certification with hands-on experience for best results.
Is it worth it in Australia?
Yes social media is critical for Australian businesses, with 19M Facebook users and 12M Instagram users locally. Certifications help professionals secure roles in digital marketing, content strategy, and paid advertising.
FAQs
Does it pay well?
Social media managers in Australia earn $75K–$155K annually depending on experience and results.
Is it difficult?
Courses are beginner-friendly; exams require practical knowledge of Ads Manager and analytics.
Is it stressful?
Self-paced learning reduces stress; practice exams help prepare for certification tests.
How many fail?
Providers don’t publish failure rates; retakes are usually allowed.
The future of social media jobs in Australia
Social media marketing continues to grow with short-form video, social commerce, and AI-driven content tools. Skills in paid ads, analytics, and community management will remain in demand.