What is DECA?

DECA is an "association of marketing students." It is a student-centered organization whose program of leadership and personal development is designed specifically for students enrolled in marketing education classes.

DECA is the only student organization operating in 50 states, the U.S. Territories, Canada, Germany and other countries and attracts individuals to productive careers in marketing, management, merchandising, travel/tourism, and entrepreneurship. It is a co-curricular organization and serves as an integral part of the classroom instructional program.

Any student enrolled in marketing-related education where there is a DECA chapter can join DECA. In schools where there is no marketing class, chapters can be organized through classes that are related to marketing (i.e. entrepreneurship, Travel and Tourism Academies, etc.). In classrooms throughout the country, students form their own chapters and elect their own officers. Marketing education teachers/coordinators serve as individual chapter advisors. DECA chapters are self-supportive, with members paying chapter, state association, and national membership dues.

DECA advisors and chapter members take an active part in the development and growth of the communities in which they live and work. Students learn, while still in school, vocational understanding necessary to compete in marketing, management, merchandising, and entrepreneurship careers. These career-oriented young people are actively involved in creative marketing projects directly related to the careers of their choice.

DECA chapter activities contribute substantially to the primary purpose of school to develop well-educated citizens who have self-confidence, self-esteem, leadership ability, and an understanding of the American Free Enterprise System. DECA chapters are invariably "showcases" for student achievement and progress, reflecting favorably on teachers, DECA advisors, and school administrators at both the local and state level.