DIGITAL MARKETING, ADVERTISING AND COMMUNICATIONS Level 6 (Hons) Degree HLA (Top Up)

Level 6
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Banbridge Campus
The Open University

Overview

Digital Marketing has become an emerging and dynamic industry within the UK and Irish economies. The Department for the Economy (DfE) 10X Skills Strategy also highlights the need to address the skills gap in this area which currently exists. The development of a Level 6 BSc (Hons) in Digital Marketing, Advertising and Communications will help reduce this skills gap. This Higher Level Apprenticeship also provides opportunities for upskilling and reskilling of new and existing employees.

The Digital Marketing, Advertising, and Communications Top Up Degree is an in-depth programme designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the dynamic and rapidly evolving field of digital marketing and advertising. This degree course focuses on providing students with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the digital landscape and effectively reach and engage target audiences through various digital channels.

Throughout the course, students will explore the core principles and strategies of digital marketing and advertising. They will study subjects such as marketing research and analysis, consumer behaviour, branding, integrated marketing communications, and digital analytics. Students will gain insights into the latest digital marketing trends, tools, and techniques used to create impactful marketing campaigns.

The programme is designed to meet the needs of the rapidly evolving digital marketing industry. Throughout the course, students will be supported by experienced faculty who are experts in the field. They will benefit from a supportive learning environment that encourages creativity, innovation, and the application of digital marketing principles in real-world scenarios. Students will also have opportunities for internships, guest lectures from industry professionals, and networking events to enhance their practical skills and industry connections.

Students are required to attend SRC one full day per week during term-time and the remaining four days will be based with an employer.

The over-riding consideration in admitting applicants to this course, is evidence that the learner is likely to be able to complete the course satisfactorily.

Attendance at Individual or Group Pre-Entry Advice Sessions (IPEAS and GPEAS) may be required. These interviews may take place either on campus, via telephone or video call (Microsoft teams) and will play an important role in place allocation.

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age on or before 1st July 2024.

Applicants must have attained a Level 5 Foundation Degree in Digital Marketing, Advertising and Communications or a closely related qualification.
Applicants must be employed or be about to take up permanent paid employment as an apprentice, or be an existing employee moving to a new job role, with a Northern Ireland based company.
Applicants must have attained at least 15 points at Level 2 or above (e.g. GCSE) or have alternative approved qualifications. In addition, applicants must provide evidence of competence in written and spoken English Language. For entry to this programme, applicants should have attained a C grade in GCSE English language and a C grade in GCSE Maths (or equivalent) .

For those entering a Higher Level Apprenticeships (HLA), employers may further enhance the entry criteria at their discretion. All applicants for HLAs will be interviewed by prospective employers to decide their suitability prior to being employed by a company. Each the applicant must secure employment with a Northern Ireland based company with a minimum contract of 21 hours. Entrance to HLAs is subject to meeting DfE Operational requirements.

Please note that applicants progressing to higher education courses at Level 4 and above in the College or UK Universities may require a specific GCSE/ A-Level profile. In some cases, the Essential Skills in Literacy and Numeracy may not be a suitable alternative to a GCSE. It is the responsibility of the applicant to check each University’s progression requirements before enrolling on a course at the College.

To find out more about the application process for Higher Level Apprenticeships please see Information on Higher Level Apprenticeships.

Modules

Digital Optimisation
Strategic Digital Marketing
Global Marketing
Research Methods
Research Project

You will be assessed on a regular basis throughout the programme using a range of appropriate assessment methods such as written and practical assignments, exams, projects, case studies, presentations and live briefs.

Graduates may go on to further study at Masters level in a related subject areas or to specialise, or may decide to undertake chartered professional qualification's.

The Digital Marketing, Advertising, and Communications Top Up Degree provides a strong foundation for students to pursue various career paths in the digital marketing industry. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates will be well-prepared for roles such as digital marketing managers, social media strategists, content marketers, digital advertising specialists, or marketing analysts. They may find employment in digital marketing agencies, advertising firms, media companies, e-commerce businesses, or marketing departments of various organisations.