Keele University

What you'll study

The Marketing degree at Keele combines core business knowledge with specialist marketing modules to build practical and strategic capabilities. Across the course you study principles of marketing, consumer behaviour, marketing communications, digital marketing, branding, marketing research and marketing strategy. Quantitative methods and marketing analytics are integrated to give you data skills for modern marketing decisions.

Teaching typically includes lectures, seminars, case studies, group projects, presentations and practical workshops. You will undertake a substantial research project or dissertation in your final year, applying marketing theory to a real problem. Optional modules often allow you to tailor your studies towards areas such as international marketing, services and retail marketing, entrepreneurship, e‑commerce, social media and sustainability in marketing.

Many students have the option to take a year in industry or a short professional placement to gain workplace experience, or to take modules from related disciplines such as management, economics, psychology and digital media to broaden their skill set.

Entry requirements

Entry to Keele's undergraduate Marketing programmes normally requires successful completion of secondary school qualifications equivalent to UK A‑levels. Applicants should demonstrate strong communication and numeracy skills; GCSE or equivalent passes in English and Maths are usually expected. International applicants should present appropriate country‑specific qualifications or recognised international qualifications such as the International Baccalaureate.

Keele also considers applicants with relevant work experience and mature applicants. Admissions decisions take into account the overall profile of the candidate, including personal statement, references and any interview or admissions tests where required. Foundation or pathway programmes are available for those who need additional preparation for undergraduate study.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Marketing degree from Keele move into a wide range of roles across industry, the public sector and specialist agencies. Typical entry roles include marketing executive, digital marketing officer, social media coordinator, brand assistant, market researcher, sales and business development roles, and public relations assistant.

With experience or further study, graduates progress to positions such as marketing manager, brand manager, digital strategist, marketing analyst, account director in agencies, or consultancy and in‑house specialist roles. The degree also provides a foundation for postgraduate study in marketing, business administration or related fields.

Keele's careers service and business school links support students with placements, employer engagement, CV and interview preparation, and access to graduate recruitment opportunities.

Why study at Keele University

Keele offers a campus environment that supports focused study and close contact with academic staff. The Business School emphasises practical learning and employability, integrating real‑world briefs and opportunities for applied projects into the curriculum. Small‑group teaching and seminar work allow for individual feedback and development of professional skills such as presentation, teamwork and critical analysis.

Students benefit from cross‑disciplinary options, allowing marketing studies to be complemented by modules in psychology, economics, computing and media. Facilities include specialist teaching resources, library and IT support, and dedicated employability services that help connect students with local and national employers. The course is designed to equip graduates with the practical, analytical and interpersonal skills that employers seek in the evolving marketing landscape.