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 a rapidly evolving and dynamic sector within the economies of the UK and Ireland. The introduction of a Level 6 BSc (Hons) in Digital Marketing, Advertising, and Communications will play a crucial role in addressing the demands of this fast-changing industry. This programme is designed to provide students with more strategic considerations in digital marketing.

Additionally, the Higher Level Apprenticeship component offers opportunities for both new and existing employees to enhance their expertise in this field. This approach benefits organisations by cultivating a workforce that is adaptable and equipped to meet the challenges of a continually shifting digital landscape. By combining academic learning with practical experience, this initiative ensures that professionals are well-prepared to thrive in an ever-evolving digital marketing environment.

Throughout the course, students will be supported by experienced faculty staff 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 benefit from 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.

This degree provides a strong foundation for students to pursue various career paths in the digital marketing industry. On successful completion of the programme, graduates will be well-prepared for roles which include digital marketing managers, social media strategists, digital advertising specialists and marketing analysts.

Programme Specification

SRC OU Admissions Guidelines

SRC OU Assessment Handbook

SRC OU Extenuating Circumstances Procedures

SRC OU Regulations for Validated Awards

SRC Student Protection Plan

SRC Level 6 Descriptors

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.

Applicants must:

Be at least 18 years of age on or before 1st July 2025.
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)
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

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 include:

Digital Optimisation
Strategic Digital Marketing
Global Marketing
Research Methods
Research Project

Students 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
Live briefs

This Higher Level Apprenticeship is FREE and fully funded by the Department for the Economy.

On successful completion of this course, 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. On successful completion of the program, graduates will be well-prepared for roles which include: