Friends University Marketing Program Accredited by Digital Marketing Institute 

Wichita, KS— Friends University announces that its marketing degree program has been accredited through a university partnership with the Digital Marketing Institute (DMI). The accreditation recognizes that Friends University’s marketing curriculum aligns with industry-validated digital marketing competencies, thereby strengthening the program’s focus on career readiness. 

Through the partnership, Friends University marketing students complete a curriculum aligned to associate-level digital marketing standards and are positioned to graduate with industry-recognized credentials alongside their degree. The pathway includes the Certified Digital Marketing Associate (CDMA) from DMI and the Associate Professional Certified Marketer® (APCM®) Digital Marketing credential from the American Marketing Association. 

“At its core, this accreditation is about student outcomes. Making sure the skills we teach in the program match what employers need right now,” said Sean Cash, Assistant Professor of Marketing at Friends University. “I’ve spent more than 30 years in marketing and in the classroom, and the one constant is changing. DMI accreditation helps us keep the curriculum current and skill-based, while giving students a credible, industry-recognized way to demonstrate what they can do. It’s another step toward graduates who are both strategic marketers and confident practitioners.” 

The accreditation enhances the university’s ability to attract students seeking programs that combine academic excellence with industry relevance. Research from DMI shows that: 

• 90% of employers value professional certifications when hiring 

• 92% of students say DMI content adds value to their degree 

• Graduates report increased confidence, practical experience, and stronger job prospects 

At the time the program earned accreditation, Friends University was only one of 11 accredited programs in the nation, a strong indicator of the program’s commitment to contemporary, industry-aligned marketing education. 

Friends University’s marketing program emphasizes experiential learning and portfolio development across key areas of digital strategy, including content marketing, social media strategies, ethical e-mail marketing, marketing analytics and integrated campaign planning. The DMI accreditation complements Friends University’s continued focus on preparing students for real roles in marketing, locally and beyond. 

About the Digital Marketing Institute 

The Digital Marketing Institute (DMI) is the global leader in digital marketing education, serving more than 360,000 members worldwide. Its curriculum is developed and validated by industry experts, ensuring alignment with the skills employers need most. DMI’s The Certified Digital Marketing Associate (CDMA) credential is DMI’s foundational certification, designed to equip emerging marketers with essential digital marketing knowledge and hands-on capabilities. 

About the American Marketing Association (AMA) 

The American Marketing Association (AMA) is one of the world’s largest and most respected professional associations for marketers, dedicated to advancing the practice, teaching, and understanding of marketing worldwide. Its Professional Certified Marketer® (PCM®) credentials set a national standard for marketing excellence, helping individuals demonstrate mastery of contemporary marketing skills and strategic expertise. 

About Friends University 

Friends University, a Christian University of Quaker heritage, equips students to honor God and serve others by integrating their intellectual, spiritual and professional lives. Friends University offers 60+ undergraduate degree options along with adult online, graduate and doctoral degrees. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. For more information, visit our site at https://www.friends.edu/