Bournemouth University

What you'll study

This programme combines core marketing theory with hands-on practice. You will study modules covering strategic marketing management, consumer behaviour, and marketing research methods, alongside contemporary topics such as digital marketing, marketing analytics and brand management. Teaching typically includes lectures, seminars, case studies, group projects and guest lectures from industry practitioners.

• Strategic Marketing Management – frameworks for planning and implementation of marketing strategies at product, brand and corporate levels.
• Consumer Behaviour – psychological, social and cultural influences on buyer decision-making and implications for segmentation and targeting.
• Digital Marketing and E‑commerce – channels, campaign planning, social media strategies, search marketing and measurement.
• Marketing Analytics – quantitative techniques for data-driven decision making, including basics of data handling, analysis and insight generation.
• Marketing Research Methods – research design, qualitative and quantitative methods, survey design and reporting for real-world marketing problems.
• Brand Management and Communications – building and managing brand equity, integrated marketing communications and creative strategy.
• Applied Project or Dissertation – an independent research project or consultancy-style live project with an employer or simulated client, allowing you to apply learning to a practical challenge.

Modules and teaching methods are designed to develop both analytical competence and practical skills such as pitching, campaign planning and client management.

Entry requirements

Applicants are usually expected to hold an undergraduate degree in business, marketing, or a related discipline at UK second class honours (2:2) or equivalent. Candidates with a degree in an unrelated subject may be considered where they can demonstrate relevant work experience or prior learning in business or marketing. A professional background in marketing, communications or digital media can also be acceptable.

International applicants must meet English language requirements; a common benchmark for master’s study is an overall IELTS score with a minimum in each component, or an equivalent qualification. Admissions may require a personal statement outlining your reasons for study and, where applicable, a CV detailing relevant experience.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of marketing roles across sectors including commercial organisations, agencies and not-for-profits. Typical roles include marketing executive or manager, brand manager, digital marketing specialist, social media manager, market researcher, marketing analyst and account manager. The programme also prepares students for consultancy roles and for further study at research or professional levels.

Bournemouth’s emphasis on live projects and industry engagement helps develop a portfolio of practical work and professional contacts useful for securing graduate roles. The transferable skills gained — strategic planning, data analysis, communication and project management — are valued in management development programmes and entrepreneurial ventures as well.

Why study at Bournemouth University

Bournemouth University offers a practical, career-oriented approach to marketing education with strong links to local and national employers in media, digital and tourism sectors. The business school emphasises applied learning through live briefs, guest speakers and opportunities to work on industry projects, giving you experience that can be directly applied in the workplace.

The university provides focused support for postgraduate students, including careers services, CV and interview preparation, and networking events. Located in a coastal town with a sizable digital and creative industries presence, the university provides good access to agencies and employers relevant to marketing and communications careers.