Marketing Communications MSc

Incorporating the latest digital and analytic marketing practices, the broad curriculum of our Master’s degree reflects the rapidly changing global marketing environment. Whilst at Westminster, you can also secure two internationally-recognised professional qualifications – the Institute of Data and Marketing (IDM) Certificate in Digital Marketing and the Institute of Practitioners in Advertising (IPA) Global Foundation Certificate, as well as joining the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR). Our goal is to prepare you for professional life in the increasingly complex and dynamic marketing communications industry, incorporating the growing content of digital marketing and new innovations.

The learning required for professional membership of the CIPR and the IDM Certificate in Digital Marketing has been embedded into the curriculum, meaning you automatically qualify for both on successful completion of this degree. With some additional study and after passing an exam, you can also achieve the IPA Global Foundation Certificate.

Our multidisciplinary degree integrates the various specialisms and practices within marketing communications, while considering some of the current issues affecting marketing communications – anything from how to develop an authentic brand voice to hands-on practice on a social media dashboard and programmatic media planning.

We offer a practical learning experience with interactive employer-based projects that mirror industry practice and give you the opportunity to work as a marketing communications agency in a ‘real-life’ scenario, pitching for work with a client. In the past, our excellent industry contacts have facilitated projects with high profile clients such as IKEA, Trainline and Percol Coffee, as well as small start-up companies like MatchaNow and Boundless. On the MSc, you’ll explore a range of quantitative research methods and techniques, such as the use of programmatic advertising and the evaluation of media effectiveness.

Professional accreditations

We have excellent links with relevant professional bodies, including: the Institute of Data and Marketing, which exists to support, encourage and improve marketing performance with development programmes to help students be the best they can be the Chartered Institute of Public Relations, the world’s only Royal Chartered body for PR professionals and the Institute of Practitioners in Advertising, incorporated by Royal Charter and the trade body and professional institute for agencies in the UK's advertising, media and marketing communications industry. On completion of the course, the students may be eligible to take the exam for the Certificate in Digital Marketing from the IDM. Students on the course also qualify for membership with the CIPR. Additionally, students can take the Global Foundation Certificate from the IPA, which requires them undertaking a series of online seminars and an IPA exam.

Careers

As a graduate, you will be prepared for marketing, advertising and PR roles around the world and across many different sectors in specialist communications agencies, private companies, non-profits, social enterprises and government organisations. You may even follow a consultancy path with a view to becoming your own boss.

Taught in the heart of London, close to many of the city’s national, international and global employers, our emphasis on skills, capabilities and attributes – with multiple opportunities throughout the course to apply these capabilities to real-business projects – will provide direct work experience to enhance your CV and narrative when applying for new positions. These applied projects will not only expand your professional networks, but directly enhance the prospects for early employability after graduation.

A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2). Alternative professional qualifications with at least three years relevant professional experience will also be considered. Applicants from different academic backgrounds are welcome.