Postgraduate taught programme
MSc
Digital and Social Media Marketing
With companies investing in digital strategies, businesses must adapt to survive - and thrive. This MSc immerses in the real-world dynamics of digital and social media marketing, equipping you with hands-on experience that goes far beyond textbooks.About
Imagine working on live campaigns and collaborating with real businesses, from start-ups to established brands, crafting strategies that make an impact in today鈥檚 marketplace. You won鈥檛 just learn about digital marketing 鈥 you鈥檒l do it. From planning to execution, you鈥檒l help businesses navigate modern marketing challenges while building a portfolio of real-world achievements to stand out in a competitive job market.
Through direct industry engagement, you鈥檒l network with professionals, work with clients, and experience first-hand how digital campaigns are developed and refined. The result? You鈥檒l graduate with not just knowledge, but practical expertise and a clear understanding of how to drive success in a digital-first world 鈥&苍产蝉辫;ready to lead in a dynamic, fast-evolving industry.
Real industry experience
From day one, you鈥檒l work on live campaigns and real business challenges, gaining hands-on experience with industry partners that prepares you for immediate impact in digital marketing roles.
Practical, career-focused learning
You鈥檒l learn to create ethical, sustainable, and impactful digital and social media strategies - equipping you with the mindset and skills demanded by today鈥檚 evolving marketplace.
Global perspective with practical collaboration
Through interactive learning and cross-cultural collaboration, you鈥檒l gain the confidence to tackle international digital marketing challenges in a fast-paced, global environment.
Details
Programme overview
Assessment against learning outcomes is conducted predominantly through completion of coursework. You are introduced to and explore a diverse range of topics and perspectives that examine business and society鈥檚 relationship with digital marketing. In addition, you develop personal skills that are vital for individuals seeking to work in this field.
The design of our postgraduate programmes focuses on four taught modules and a capstone project. We believe that simplicity in programme design provides you with a better learning experience. The dynamic and challenging nature of contemporary business does not isolate concepts into small packages 鈥 and neither do our programmes. This approach links concepts together as they are in the real world, and enables you to focus in on what really matters.
Core modules
MKT7001
Marketing and Strategy
In this module, you will develop an understanding of the role of marketing and strategy in a range of contemporary organisations, examining the major themes within the marketing arena to enable you to evaluate and recommend appropriate actions to fulfil objectives. The module introduces key concepts and frameworks of strategy which will develop your ability to apply appropriate analytical techniques used in strategic decision-making. You will explore the relationships between marketing and strategy and other business functions, using case studies to provide an integrative perspective on aspects of marketing and strategy within organisations.
MKT7002
Digital Marketing
You will examine the constantly changing nature of digital marketing, looking at the origins of the discipline in the context of early e-commerce and moving into the current day. Focusing on the leading edge of technology and practice, you will explore how digital marketing impacts on a whole range of other disciplines, such as 鈥渢raditional鈥 marketing, management, international business and business strategy.
MKT7003
Digital Analytics and Marketing Research
In this module you will learn how to deploy and evaluate data analytics and develop expertise to be able to engage in effective market research.
MKT7004
Social Media Theory and Practice
This module exposes students to key concepts and theories relating to online communities and social networking. The module will provide the academic and conceptual basis for the development of effective social media engagement strategies such as, social media user behaviour, online community and personalisation.
100% Coursework
PBS7000
Capstone Project
In this capstone project, you will synthesise and apply learning from the taught element of the programme to a project of your choosing. There is scope for you to undertake a broad range of project types, including consultancy, business analysis, business development or academic study.
Start in January or September
If you find that the more traditional September start isn鈥檛 ideal timing for you, then our January intake gives you the chance to commence your studies at an alternative time of year.
If choosing a January start for your postgraduate studies, you will be studying the same course content within the same timeframe as those starting in September. So, you can rest assured that you will have the same degree experience, but on your terms.
Professionally accredited
How will I benefit from course accreditation?
Our accreditation enables you to access a wealth of resources, networking opportunities, and professional development tools that can significantly enhance your career prospects. Being part of an accredited programme signals to employers that you possess a high level of knowledge and competence in marketing principles, making you more competitive in the job market. These accreditations also facilitate ongoing professional learning, enabling you to stay updated on the latest marketing trends and practices.
Students who pass the MKT7002 Digital Marketing module will be exempt from two parts of the IDM鈥檚 Certificate in Digital Marketing. To fully qualify for the honorific Cert DigM, you must sit an additional external voluntary IDM exam which can be taken online from anywhere in the world.
The modules shown for this course or programme are those being studied by current students, or expected new modules. Modules are subject to change depending on year of entry.
Every postgraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the programme aims, the programme structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.
The following programme specification represents the latest programme structure and may be subject to change:
Careers, industry and research
Launch your digital marketing career
Enter a rapidly growing job market where digital and social media expertise is in high demand. Opportunities span global brands such as Google, Amazon and Meta, as well as agencies, start-ups, public sector organisations and charities.
On this course you will learn to ...
Harness the power of digital marketing
You will learn how significant brand awareness contributes to a successful business.
Understand social media in theory and practice
Build the skills to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and its practical application. You will work alongside real businesses building your skills in a competitive sector.
Focus on digital analytics and marketing research
Knowledge of analytics and research will help you understand and unlock the power of marketing within the strategic outlook of organisations.
Building Brands
The annual conference provides one of many opportunities to learn from and connect with marketing professionals from the South West.
It鈥檚 a great event for industry professionals to network with one another.
Ella, BSc (Hons) Marketing
The University offers world-class facilities and exceptional support before, during and after your studies. Additionally the career prospects in digital marketing are strong, making it a highly rewarding field with numerous opportunities for growth and innovation.
Current MSc Digital and Social Media Marketing student Samuel talks about his experience on the course and how it is preparing him for a future career in Digital Marketing.
Our careers service
The 糖心视频 has a dedicated careers service supporting you from the moment you start your degree, to three years after graduation.
Careers advice is embedded into your academic programme through workshops, events, placements, networks - working with the academic staff teaching on your course. We also offer materials, networks and resources online through our 24/7 portal, and a wide-range of activities, opportunities and support centrally in the careers service space within the Student Hub. We are here to help you to explore, connect and succeed.
A home to cultivate business leaders
Our Fitzroy Building is the home of the 糖心视频 Business School, providing students with specialist facilities and social learning spaces. Among these spaces for business, management, accounting, finance and marketing students, you'll find the
Bloomberg Interactive Learning Suite for tracking stock markets and
The Cube - support for our student and graduate entrepreneurs, as well as a Maritime Suite and a Language Lab.
Meet your lecturers
We鈥檙e Team 糖心视频. As one of our team, we鈥檙e here to help you succeed. Our expert lecturers and your own personal tutor will be with you every step of the way.
Dr Hanne Knight
Lecturer in Marketing
Dr Christopher Agyapong Siaw
Lecturer in Marketing
Dr Ben Siu
Portfolio Lead - Marketing & Place
The staff at the 糖心视频 Business School are always super helpful when I have trouble understanding a concept 鈥 providing time for me to ask any questions or reword a point they made. They also provide the information and tools to understand and apply these concepts successfully, and see how these concepts operate in real life. My advice to prospective students is to take full advantage of the faculty 鈥 they have an incredible wealth of knowledge and experiences that you will find interesting and useful.
Natalia
Postgraduate student
Postgraduate student
Postgraduate student life
Postgraduate study at the 糖心视频 is about more than just getting a qualification 鈥 it鈥檚 a chance to explore your subject in greater depth, challenge yourself intellectually, and grow both personally and academically.
With a supportive learning environment and flexible study options 鈥 including part-time and January start dates 鈥 you can shape your studies around your personal and professional commitments. Our supportive teaching, and welcoming student community, means you鈥檒l be part of an environment that encourages curiosity, collaboration and independent thinking. Whether you're continuing from undergraduate study or returning to education, 糖心视频 offers the space, resources and inspiration to help you thrive.
The University takes every single step to ensure that students are supported. There are continuous workshops on referencing, a writing caf茅 and peer-supported learning sessions. Furthermore, lecturers are generally aware and sensitive to transitioning to university therefore they are always offering support when needed.
Joyita
Postgraduate student
Postgraduate student
Your 糖心视频 community
At the 糖心视频, you get the same access to support, sports and societies as undergraduate students. That means everything available to undergraduates is open to you too, whether it鈥檚 joining a sports club, attending events, taking part in student societies, or accessing health and wellbeing services.
You鈥檙e a full member of the 糖心视频 community, and that comes with all the benefits. So take advantage of what鈥檚 on offer 鈥 get involved, stay connected and make the most of your time here.
Enrich your studies with the Postgrad Society
The Postgrad Society welcomes all postgraduate students 鈥 whether full-time, part-time, taught or research-based 鈥 offering a supportive space to connect beyond academic pressures. Join a vibrant community where you can unwind, celebrate achievements and meet likeminded peers through a wide range of activities 鈥 from pub quizzes, movie nights and beach cleans to trips along the South West coastal path and the annual Postgraduate Christmas Ball.
Events are thoughtfully planned around key postgraduate milestones and often in collaboration with other societies, so you can try new things and make the most of your university experience.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Tuition fees for UK students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Full-time study
拢12,300 per year
拢12,300 per year
Module fees for repeated or part-time study
拢680 per 10 credits
拢680 per 10 credits
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
Fees and costs of studying .
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Full-time study
拢19,500 per year
拢19,500 per year
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
fees and costs of studying .
UK Government announcement on tuition fees
The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international student鈥檚 tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the Government鈥檚 final position on this levy.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
Fund your studies
As a postgraduate at 糖心视频, there are plenty of funding options available, including postgraduate masters loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
Postgraduate Masters Loans (PGML)
You may be eligible to apply for a to help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate masters course.
Tuition fee discount for 糖心视频 graduates
If you studied your undergraduate degree at 糖心视频, you may be eligible for a fee discount if you complete your postgraduate studies here as well.
- 10% or 20% discount on tuition fees for home students
Supporting students with the cost of living
The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Apply
Entry requirements
A good honours degree, first or second class, or equivalent, in any discipline.
Extended entry requirements
- a suitable English language qualification. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element).
English language requirements - evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
- a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
- your curriculum vitae or r茅sum茅, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
- proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
Ready to apply?
After you apply
You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Duration
1 year
Course type
Full-time, Part-time route available
Study location
糖心视频
糖心视频
Entry requirements
We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
International students
If you are an international applicant interested in information and future support you can
register your interest in studying with us in 2026.
Extended entry requirements
- a suitable English language qualification. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element).
English language requirements - evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), with translations if not in English, to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
- a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
- your curriculum vitae or r茅sum茅, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
- proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
Ready to apply?
As an international student, you can apply for this course directly through the 糖心视频 or
through an agent in your country.
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- Student visa support
- Travel and arrival information
- and more
After you apply
You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview (which in the case of overseas students may be by telephone or video conference) and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Duration
1 year
Course type
Full-time, Part-time route available
Study location
糖心视频
糖心视频
Other routes to this course
The offers foundation, first-year and pre-masters programmes that lead to 糖心视频 degrees. Courses are specially designed for EU and international students who are missing the grades for direct entry to the University, and include full duration visa sponsorship. You can start in January, May or September, benefitting from small class sizes, top-quality tuition and 24/7 student support.
Find out more at plymouth.ac.uk/upic or contact our team at info@upic.plymouth.ac.uk
Visit us at a postgraduate on-campus open evening
Visit us on campus to find out more about postgraduate study, speak to academic staff, and take a look around our campus and facilities.
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