Masters Degrees (Strategic Communications)

About the MSc programme

The MSc Strategic Communications moves beyond a purely vocational approach to the making of messages to offer you an approach to strategic communication that reflects: the changing means of communication, image making and storytelling in the organisational environment today; the expanding strategic ends of selling not only products and ideas/ideals but also places and experiences in an increasingly mediated and networked world, especially through branding; and the increasingly complex consequences for all types of organisation of the interaction of these changes.

The programme will focus on the study of organisations as communicators across the governmental, non-governmental and corporate sectors, especially in the context of change associated with digitalisation and globalisation. In particular, it will examine the ways organisations communicate strategically, both internally and externally; and how communication contributes to shaping discourses and practices associated with leadership within organisations and across them.

It will also consider the role of digital technologies, and the links between discourse and power, and how they relate to the way public discourse and symbolic resources are unevenly distributed and controlled, privileging certain institutions and ideologies.

Graduate destinations

On graduating, our students enter a variety of careers in the UK and abroad, including broadcasting, journalism, advertising, new media industries, political marketing, market research, regulation and policy, media management and research in both public and private sectors. Contact lse.ac.uk/[email protected]/alumni for further information.

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Digital marketing is driving customer insights, and proves key in improving return on investment and company performance. There is a shortage of skilled people who can manage this process and interpret data to provide a justification for decision making; meaning this MSc Strategic Digital Marketing course is attractive to employers.

Strategic Digital Marketing is an essential aspect of any marketing strategy. By studying this course you will develop the skills and knowledge much sought after in the market place, allowing you to contribute strategically to a business’s success in the digital marketing arena.

You will explore contemporary approaches to strategic marketing in a digital context, and how these can be applied now and in the future. This will give you, your organisation, or prospective employer, a distinct competitive advantage.

The course also provides many opportunities for you to network with fellow students, sharing your experience and workplace ideas, and offers an innovative approach to the issues that today’s marketers face.

The course is currently being considered for accreditation by the IDM (Institute of Direct and Digital Marketing).

See the website http://courses.southwales.ac.uk/courses/1247-msc-strategic-digital-marketing

What you will study

This course focuses on strategic entrepreneurial marketing and the development of new business models and value propositions based on in-depth insights of both customer and industry/market sector analysis.

It has a clear emphasis on the strategic utilisation of digital marketing theory, strategy, tools and tactics as well as analysis and evaluation of key analytics and metrics in meeting organisational key performance indicators.

You’ll study 180 credits on the course. These credits are made up of the following modules:

- Digital Marketing Management (September – December)
On this module you will learn key aspects of strategic digital marketing planning as well as the changing nature of customer markets and strategic business models. You will be expected to set strategic digital marketing objectives to meet strategic business aims.

- Strategic Entrepreneurial Marketing (September – December)
Gain an understanding of key constructs associated with Strategic Entrepreneurial Marketing, Strategic Entrepreneurial Marketing interfaces with business strategy; and the differentiation between Strategic Entrepreneurial Marketing, and normative marketing planning and management.

- Content Marketing and PR (January to March)
You will be provided with a solid foundation for writing and factual story-telling as well as verbal communication within a marketing and PR context.

- Digital Tools, Technologies and Metrics (January to March)
You will learn about how digital tools and technologies can be used to engage and influence customer conversations and interactions as well as customer retention. You’ll also understand and critique best practice and relevant tools and technologies, application, remuneration and controls to deliver results and find out about how digital tools and technologies interface with business activities to meet strategic aims and objectives.

- Campaign Planning for Marketing and PR (April – May)
On this module you will learn about key constructs associated with Campaign Planning for Marketing and PR; and how strategic digital Campaign Planning for Marketing and PR interfaces with overall organisation strategies and actions.

- Research Methods
Develop your understanding and skills of research in a management and/or professional development context whilst undertaking a critical review of research methodologies and methods.

- Dissertation
A significant piece of research into an appropriate area of study.

Learning and teaching methods

The course is delivered full-time daily and is term-based. Part time students, depending on prior qualifications and experience will be counselled on the flexible options available to them.

You will study through a series of lectures, workshops and internship/work-based learning. The course team work closely with digital marketing professionals who co-deliver elements of the course.

Teaching staff come from a range of academic and practitioner backgrounds. Their expertise comes from a wide range of private and public practice areas as well as academic and research-focussed subjects.

Alumni form an important part of delivery through communicating experiences and inspiring our students. Through social media, we have captured graduates who have studied the course and related modules. It is hoped that this group will facilitate networking and information sharing. A LinkedIn course area has been developed to ensure prospective and current students and alumni can engage and build their professional network.

Work Experience and Employment Prospects

The MSc Strategic Digital Marketing draws students from a range of backgrounds who share the common goal of wanting to develop as strategic digital marketers. Graduates should greatly enhance their career prospects across a variety of industries in both private and public sectors but may also choose to start up their own business in this growth area. Career options include Social Media Lead, Digital Marketing Manager, Digital Strategy Manager, Marketing Manager, Digital Communications Manager or E-Marketing Manager.

Throughout the course guest speakers representing employers from public, private and third sector industries and organisations provide students with career advice. These sessions will provide you with a broad overview of the different opportunities available to you.

Assessment methods

You will be assessed on a variety of methods, including individual coursework (reports and portfolio work), group projects (reports, presentations, and case studies) and a dissertation/business research project. There are no examinations.

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Gain the expertise to operate within a global economy and develop your writing and presentation skills to engage with audiences across the world.

The use of the internet, mobile technology and social media has had a huge impact on our lives and the way we communicate ? information is quite literally available at our fingertips and word of mouth is spreading faster than ever before. This trend is leading to a greater demand for communication professionals who can plan strategic PR campaigns and implement social media and viral campaigns in order to drive businesses forward in this digital age.

You will be paired with an experienced mentor, who will offer valuable advice on the industry, your future career and the latest developments in the field. You will undertake a live public relations consultancy project for a client.

You will also have the option to undertake a work placement in your second semester.

- Research Excellence Framework 2014: twice as many of our staff - 220 - were entered into the research assessment for 2014 compared to the number entered in 2008.

Visit the website http://courses.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/prandstrategiccommunication_ma

Mature Applicants

Our University welcomes applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential. We usually require some evidence of recent academic study, for example completion of an access course, however recent relevant work experience may also be considered. Please note that for some of our professional courses all applicants will need to meet the specified entry criteria and in these cases work experience cannot be considered in lieu.

If you wish to apply through this route you should refer to our University Recognition of Prior Learning policy that is available on our website (http://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/studenthub/recognition-of-prior-learning.htm).

Please note that all applicants to our University are required to meet our standard English language requirement of GCSE grade C or equivalent, variations to this will be listed on the individual course entry requirements.

Careers

With guidance from your mentor and backed by the experiences gleaned from your work placement and real-life project, your career prospects will be significantly strengthened. A study abroad option will enable you to undertake part of your studies at a partner university in Europe. These opportunities will help you build a strong CV for a career in PR and strategic communication. Job roles for our graduates could include public relations manager, communications manager, press officer, media relations manager, internal communications manager and social media manager.

- Digital Communications Manager
- Communications Manager
- Head of Media Relations
- Social Media Account Manager

Careers advice: The dedicated Jobs and Careers team offers expert advice and a host of resources to help you choose and gain employment. Whether you're in your first or final year, you can speak to members of staff from our Careers Office who can offer you advice from writing a CV to searching for jobs.

Visit the careers site - https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/employability/jobs-careers-support.htm

Course Benefits

Your employability will be enhanced by a three-step system - a work placement, real-life project and through guidance from your mentor. A study abroad option enables you to undertake part of your studies at a partner university in Europe and these opportunities will help you build a strong CV for a career in PR and corporate communication.

This course forms part of our Leeds Business School which has been at the forefront of public relations education, both nationally and internationally, since 1990. We are a centre for excellence for public relations and communications teaching in the UK and Europe and our academics have substantial professional experience in the subject. The late Alan Rawel, who was Head of Education at the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR), described us as 'one of the leading university PR departments in Europe'.

The bestselling textbook 'Exploring Public Relations' is edited by our very own Prof Ralph Tench and Liz Yeomans, with chapters written by members of our subject group. It is now in its second edition and has been adopted as a standard text by many universities all over the world as well as by the CIPR professional courses.

Our strong relationships with employers and professionals give you the opportunity to do a placement with PR consultancies and in-house PR departments. A study abroad option enables you to undertake part of your studies at a partner university in Europe. These opportunities will help you build a strong CV for a career in PR and corporate communication.

Core Modules

Corporate Communication in an Intercultural Context
Examine the role of cultural factors in the management of corporate communications, combining the fields of corporate relations functions and specialist areas of corporate communication.

Digital Communication Management
Gain an understanding of the changing landscape in digital communication and develop the tools for managing personal and corporate reputation.

Dissertation
You will carry out an in-depth research project in a subject that is appropriate to the course and of particular interest to you.

Public Relations Skills
Develop the core skills required to be a public relations professional, including planning, presentation and writing.

Strategic Communication Planning & Management
Gain an understanding and awareness of the strategic nature of communication, its role as a management function, and the contribution it makes to the achievement of business objectives.

Option Modules

Communications Audit
Develop your critical awareness of communications audits and their function in a consultancy setting. Working in a team alongside your peers, you will audit an aspect of internal or external communications for a live client. You will understand how to use auditing to improve an organisation's business performance, especially in relation to its communications activity.

Global Business Environment
You will analyse the political, social, legal and technological relationships between businesses in the global external environment. Additionally you will explore issues including sustainable development, competitive advantage of nations, global responsibility and citizenship in relation to the function of business globally.

International Marketing - Emerging Markets
Develop an in-depth understanding of the dynamics and specifics of the BRIC markets (Brazil, Russia, India & China) as examples of the numerous country markets now identified as emerging.

Marketing Communications Strategy
Gain a strategic understanding of how marketing communications tools, media, content, audiences and brands interact. Your knowledge will underpin your understanding of the way in which marketing communications strategy works with branding principles.

Work Placement
You will develop your personal, intellectual and professional skills throughout your placement. Your portfolio and your reflective report will be based on the practical application of theories and ideas you have studied, explored in the context of your placement organisation.

Facilities

- Library
Our libraries are two of the only university libraries in the UK open 24/7 every day of the year. However you like to study, the libraries have got you covered with group study, silent study, extensive e-learning resources and PC suites.

- The Rose Bowl
The Rose Bowl has impressive teaching spaces, auditoriums, conference facilities and an outstanding local reputation as a business hub. The Rose Bowl puts our students at the centre of a dynamic business community.

Find out how to apply here - http://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/postgraduate/how-to-apply/

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Corporate communication is an increasingly important strategic issue for organisations and expertise in this area offers excellent opportunities for career progression. You will learn about the latest communication trends, keeping you up to date with changing industry standards and practices.
As a communications manager or leader wanting to maximise your professional performance and career opportunities in this dynamic sector, you will develop specialist knowledge and hone your strategic skills to improve the performance of your organisation.

Delivered part-time, usually on six Friday and Saturday blocks over one year, you will have minimal disruption to your professional schedule and can combine work with study.

- Research Excellence Framework 2014: twice as many of our staff - 220 - were entered into the research assessment for 2014 compared to the number entered in 2008.

Visit the website http://courses.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/corporatecomms_msc

Mature Applicants

Our University welcomes applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential. We usually require some evidence of recent academic study, for example completion of an access course, however recent relevant work experience may also be considered. Please note that for some of our professional courses all applicants will need to meet the specified entry criteria and in these cases work experience cannot be considered in lieu.

If you wish to apply through this route you should refer to our University Recognition of Prior Learning policy that is available on our website (http://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/studenthub/recognition-of-prior-learning.htm).

Please note that all applicants to our University are required to meet our standard English language requirement of GCSE grade C or equivalent, variations to this will be listed on the individual course entry requirements.

Careers

Your modules focus on the challenges practitioners face in their professional work and career development, ensuring you will be able to apply your learning to your work straight away. On completion, you will be able to apply critical analysis and research skills in either a business, public or non-profit sector environment.

- Communications Officer
- Communications Manager
- Head of Communications
- Strategic Brand Planner

Careers advice:
The dedicated Jobs and Careers team offers expert advice and a host of resources to help you choose and gain employment. Whether you're in your first or final year, you can speak to members of staff from our Careers Office who can offer you advice from writing a CV to searching for jobs.

Visit the careers site - https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/employability/jobs-careers-support.htm

Course Benefits

Leeds Business School has been at the forefront of development in public relations education, both nationally and internationally, since 1990. Your course is delivered by lecturers within our Public Relations & Communications Subject Group which includes 15 academic staff teaching across 10 undergraduate, postgraduate and professional courses.

If you have already gained the CIPR Diploma you will be exempt from the core modules Stakeholder and Employee Communications, Corporate Social Responsibility & Communication, and Issues & Crisis Public Relations, and will follow a fast track route to a masters degree.

Academic staff within the group have contributed chapters to the best-selling textbook 'Exploring Public Relations' edited by Professor Ralph Tench and Liz Yeomans.

As a communications professional with a track record including time as the Communications Manager at Rolls-Royce, this course was a natural choice for Annalie Brown: "The course was right for me and it helped that I was exempt from some modules due to having the CIPR Diploma already."

At Leeds Business School we're dedicated to supporting your professional development - that's why we offer a guest lecture programme. Past speakers include the CEO of the London Stock Exchange, Shadow Chief Secretary to the Treasury, past Chair and President of the Academy of Marketing, Chief Executive of the British Bankers Association, the Chief Economist of Yorkshire Bank and the Editor of Cosmopolitan. To see our full programme and to register for a lecture click here (http://www.leedsmet.ac.uk/guestspeakers).

Core Modules

Corporate Social Responsibility & Communication
Explore the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), including the issues of maximising profit and the need for sustainable development, environmental integrity and ethical business practices.

Digital Communication Management
Gain an understanding of the changing landscape in digital communication and develop the tools for managing personal and corporate reputation.

Issues & Crisis Public Relations
Study the theories and practicalities of crisis management within the public and private sectors across the world. You'll learn to identify issues and how to prepare for and manage crises

Marketing Communications Strategy
Gain an understanding of the way in which marketing communications strategy melds with branding principles.

Specialist Public Relations
Investigate specialist areas of strategic PR and corporate communications including public affairs, social marketing and arts marketing.

Stakeholder Relations & Employee Communications
Analyse internal communication as a means of stakeholder management and investigate the power of different organisational environments, cultures and leadership styles that influence corporate communications.

Dissertation
You will carry out an in-depth research project in a subject that is appropriate to the course and of particular interest to you.

Facilities

- Library
Our libraries are two of the only university libraries in the UK open 24/7 every day of the year. However you like to study, the libraries have got you covered with group study, silent study, extensive e-learning resources and PC suites.

- The Rose Bowl
The Rose Bowl has impressive teaching spaces, auditoriums, conference facilities and an outstanding local reputation as a business hub. The Rose Bowl puts our students at the centre of a dynamic business community.

Find out how to apply here - http://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/postgraduate/how-to-apply/

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Global organisations are realising that their corporate communications and marketing functions need to work closely to communicate with stakeholders. This growing interdependence has partly been driven by the impact of online communications on organisational reputation.

This course recognises this industry shift and explores the drivers and dynamics of modern corporate communications and its relationship with marketing and public relations. You focus on stakeholder management, global marketing, brand management, reputation management, media relations and social media.

Taught by researchers who combine their professional experience with the latest research expertise, you’ll examine key theories and concepts and gain the practical professional skills employers are looking for.

You’ll benefit from our corporate connections, as senior figures working in the sector regularly visit to offer a practitioner’s view during guest lectures. Many also provide case studies and practical projects.

Academic excellence

The Marketing division at Leeds University Business School is one the leading centres of research in marketing in Europe. As part of our research, we engage with companies, senior executives and academics across the globe.

Our research makes an important contribution to your learning on the programme; our academics bring their world-leading expertise to you in the classroom. The Global and Strategic Marketing Research Centre (GLOSMARC) is the Business School’s established and esteemed centre of excellence for scholarly research work.

Course content

The course provides you with an essential foundation in communications theory, marketing strategy and public relations practice.

You’ll explore the history and theory of corporate communications, connecting communications to overall corporate strategy. Alongside this, you’ll study the latest thinking in important areas of marketing such as international marketing, marketing strategy and marketing research, as well as understanding how organisations manage their brands and identities, marketing communications and key priorities such as sustainability.

During the Public Relations in Practice module, you’ll work alongside classmates in interactive workshops that focus on the practical applications of some key PR tools and techniques. You’ll cover essential skills such as campaign planning, personal communication skills, influencing techniques and writing for PR.

In addition, you’ll choose from a selection of optional modules that allow you to focus on a topic that matches your interests and career plans.

In the final semester you will apply your skills and knowledge to either a research dissertation or a practical consultancy project. Our consultancy projects give you the opportunity to work with a live business situation, make links with industry and gain work experience that can be exceptionally rewarding.

Course structure

Compulsory modules

You’ll study nine compulsory modules, plus either a dissertation or consultancy project.

• Corporate Communications and Reputation Management 15 credits
• Corporate Communications Strategy 15 credits
• Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability 15 credits
• Brand Management and Corporate Identity 15 credits
• Public Relations in Practice 15 credits
• Marketing Research 15 credits
• Marketing Communications 15 credits
• Global Marketing 15 credits
• Marketing Strategy 15 credits

Optional modules

You’ll also choose one optional module.

• Creative Public Relations 15 credits
• Internal Communications and Change Management 15 credits
• Social Media Marketing 15 credits
• Direct, Digital and Interactive Marketing 15 credits

For more information on typical modules, read Corporate Communications, Marketing and Public Relations MA in the course catalogue

Learning and teaching

We use a range of teaching methods so you can benefit from the expertise of our academics, including lectures, workshops, seminars, simulations and tutorials. Company case studies provide an opportunity to put your learning into practice.

Independent study is also vital for this course, allowing you to prepare for taught classes and sharpen your own research and critical skills.

Assessment

Assessment methods emphasise not just knowledge, but essential skills development too. You’ll be assessed using a range of techniques including exams, group projects, written assignments and essays, in-course assessment, group and individual presentations and reports.

Career opportunities

Graduates have a rounded and reflective approach to communications strategy and practice. Many become effective communications professionals, either in internal corporate and marketing communications roles or in PR, digital and social media agencies.

Links with industry

A number of senior figures from the world of corporate communications, marketing and public relations are invited to deliver guest lectures, providing a practitioner's view of the latest industry developments.

Recent contributors include: Sainsburys, Creative Concern, Ikea UK & IE, Sustainly, Marks and Spencer, Search Laboratory, Twentysix and Brand 24.

Careers support

We help you to achieve your career ambitions by providing professional development support as part of the course.

Our dedicated professional development tutor provides you with tailored academic and careers support. They help you to develop essential skills to successfully progress through the course, and also the professional skills you need to gain employment in your future career.

You can expect advice and guidance with your career choices, help in identifying and applying for jobs, as well as one-to-one coaching for interpersonal skills.

Read more about our Careers and professional development support.

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Today’s customers are more knowledgeable than ever before, demanding wider variety and better quality in products and services. Organisations are looking to marketing strategists to ensure they understand the needs of their customers, how to evolve and grow their customer base and provide the drive towards innovation that will secure them a place in new and emerging markets

Why study MSc Strategic Marketing at Middlesex University?

Any strategic marketing role requires both a broad vision for the organisation and an understanding of the impact of differing marketing channels. Developed for marketing practitioners and graduates from areas such as marketing, management and social sciences, this course provides knowledge and skills in the three key areas of strategic marketing; Strategic Analysis, Strategic Marketing and Leadership, and Implementation.

The course has a strong focus on applying theoretical concepts to practice situations, employing real-life case studies and a week-long residential to give you a true understanding of strategic marketing practice. There is also the option to take 6 month work placement as part of the 18 month version of the course to further develop practice understanding and professional competencies.

Course Highlights

Gain practice skills and in depth knowledge in the three core subject areas of Strategic Marketing and Leadership, Strategic Analysis, and Implementation.
Opportunity to incorporate a 6 month placement through which to further explore learning in an industry based setting
Week-long residential incorporating workshops and talks from industry professionals.

Course content

What you will study on the MSc Strategic Marketing?
The course starts by embedding the fundamentals of the subject in the learning through core modules covering key areas such as brand management, leadership from a marketing perspective and planning for a global market place. From here you will select four optional modules in areas in which you would like to specialise or across the spectrum to give a broad knowledge base.

These modules consists of insights based topics such as consumer psychology and customer analysis, strategy based subjects such as marketing communications and product management, and implementation in areas such as digital marketing and experiential marketing. The course ends with a dissertation, allowing you to explore in depth a strategic marketing topic of your choice.

Modules

Marketing Strategy, Leadership and Planning (30 credits) Compulsory
Strategic Brand Management (30 Credits) Compulsory
Customer Analysis and Relationship Marketing (15 Credits) Compulsory
Consumer Psychology (15 Credits) Optional
Innovation-Driven Marketing (15 Credits) Optional
Strategic Product Management (15 Credits) Optional
Multichannel Marketing Management (15 Credits) Optional
Strategic Marketing Communications (15 Credits) Optional
Digital Marketing (15 Credits) Optional
Experiential Marketing and Events (15 Credits) Optional
Research methods & dissertation (60 Credits) Compulsory
You can find more information about this course in the programme specification. Module and programme information is indicative and may be subject to change.

Teaching - how is the MSc Strategic Marketing taught?

Lectures

Lectures are a useful way to discuss key material or approaches, deal with issues, explore questions, concepts and theories, or introduce business case study material. During lectures, note taking and listening are essential as they will help you to make sense of what you have seen and heard, to identify and remember key points to understand difficult concepts and organise your material by making links and associations with other material.

Seminars

For small groups – these are structured, student-led sessions in which you might explore ideas in discussion, carry out practical tasks, or practice your research skills. All of these sessions are intended to provide forms of space in which you can discuss and share ideas; as well as develop skills and materials in preparation for assessments. In seminars, reading module materials, note taking and participating in discussion are essential. Actively participating and engaging in seminar discussion enhances presentation skills and the articulation of arguments and ideas and helps you prepare materials for assessment tasks.

Group or individual tutorials

Include structured, formal and informal feedback from your tutors on work in progress or on your ideas for a specific module assignment or project task.

Self-directed/ independent learning

Much of your learning at university takes place outside class sessions. This encourages autonomous learning, providing you with the opportunity for critical self-reflection or space for self-directed reading or research. An example might be a research or practical project linked to a module's learning outcomes that you undertake independently or with a small group supported by your tutor.

Assessment
You will be required to complete a number of coursework assignment for assessment. The coursework can be individual, such as plans, reports, memorandum and essays, or group which will involve activity including presentations and reports. Tutorials will also feature formal and informal feedback.

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This is a specialised Management Masters giving students an opportunity to study a wide range of international business topics. There are three programmes;

MSc International Business and Strategic Management

MSc International Strategic Management

MSc International Business

and all are designed to provide students with knowledge and skills that would be well suited for careers as business consultants and/or strategy analysts in the broad arena of business and management, but especially in the areas of international business and strategic management. It will also be relevant to those wishing to work in business and economic development roles in public sector organisations.

The programme is suitable for students from any background and will rapidly develop an understanding of management and business studies to an advanced level, with particular reference to the current research agenda and innovative thinking in international business practice.

MSc International Business and Strategic Management

Studying on our MSc in International Business and Strategic Management provides you with the chance look in-depth at the factors that shape international business and how strategy is articulated and enacted in a global context. During this programme of study, you will also have the chance to develop your skills in critical analysis, information processing and data presentation. Subject material is studied in an international context to prepare graduates for the global economy in which organisations operate. The programme is suitable for applicants from a wide range of backgrounds, including those with no previous business studies. Upon completing this programme, you will not only be prepared for a range of careers in international business and management, you will also have the skills and outlook necessary to thrive in an increasingly interconnected global workplace.

Term 1
-International Business in the Global Context [20]
-International Political Economy and Business [20]
-Introduction to Strategic Management [10]
-Managing People [10]

Term Break
Term 2
- Research Methods for International Business and Management Studies [20]
-Strategy in Global Organisations [20]

and One option from:
-Continuity and Change in Organisations [20]
-International Marketing Communications and Ethics [20]
-Social and Environmental Accounting [20]
-International Sales Management [20]
-Global Perspectives on HRM and Employment Relations [20]

Term 3 and Summer
- Dissertation (60)

Note: the University reserves the right to change the modules on offer.

MSc International Strategic Management

Studying on our MSc in International Strategic Management provides you with the chance look in-depth at how strategy is formulated, articulated and enacted in a global context. During this programme of study, you will also have the chance to develop your skills in critical analysis, information processing and data presentation. Subject material is studied in an international context to prepare graduates for the global economy in which organisations operate. The programme is suitable for applicants from a wide range of backgrounds, including those with no previous business studies. Upon completing this programme, you will not only be prepared for a range of careers in international business and management, you will also have the skills and outlook necessary to thrive in an increasingly interconnected global workplace.

Term 1
-International Business in the Global Context [20]
-International Political Economy and Business [20]
-Introduction to Strategic Management [10]
-Managing People [10]

Term Break
Term 2
-Research Methods for International Business and Management Studies [20]
-Case Studies in Strategic Management [20]
and One option from:
-International Business Management and Emerging Markets [20]
-Strategy in Global Organisations [20]
-International Sales Management [20]
-International Public Management (20)

Term Break
Term 3 and Summer
- Dissertation (60)

Note: the University reserves the right to change the modules on offer.

MSc International Business

Studying on our MSc in International Business provides you with the chance look in-depth at the factors that shape the international business environment and how corporations respond to these challenges. During this programme of study, you will also have the chance to develop your skills in critical analysis, information processing and data presentation. Subject material is studied in an international context to prepare graduates for the global economy in which organisations operate. The programme is suitable for applicants from a wide range of backgrounds, including those with no previous business studies. Upon completing this programme, you will not only be prepared for a range of careers in international business and management, you will also have the skills and outlook necessary to thrive in an increasingly interconnected global workplace.

Term 1
-International Business in the Global Context [20]
-International Political Economy and Business [20]
-Introduction to Strategic Management [10]
-Managerial Economics [10]

Term Break
Term 2
Qualitative Research Methods [10]
International Business Management and Emerging Markets [20]
and One option from:
-Strategy in Global Organisations [20]
-Innovation and Technology Management [20]
-Financial Strategy and Governance [20]
-International Marketing Communications and Ethics [20]
-Global Perspectives on HRM and Employment Relations [20]
-International Sales Management [20]


Term Break
Term 3 and Summer
-Quantitative Methods and Data Analysis (10)
Dissertation [60]

Note: the University reserves the right to change the modules on offer.

Where you’ll go from here

York Masters students have been successful in developing careers in a range of organisations in many parts of the world. Common destinations on leaving are:
-Accountancy and Audit
-Computing
-Defence and Aerospace
-Finance and Banking
-Healthcare and Medicine
-Insurance
-Management Consultancy
-Market Research
-Pharmaceuticals and Chemicals
-Tourism and Travel
-Transport, Logistics and Distribution

A small number of students each year are keen to continue their studies, enrolling on specialists masters programmes elsewhere in the UK or moving on to The York Management School’s Doctoral programme.

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Visit our website for more information on fees, scholarships, postgraduate loans and other funding options to study Strategic Marketing at Swansea University - 'Welsh University of the Year 2017' (Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2017).

This new course in Strategic Marketing is being introduced at the School of Management from September 2017. Course structure and content for the MSc in Strategic Marketing has been developed in line with the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) Certificate in Professional Marketing.

Key Features of the MSc in Strategic Marketing

- All modules on the Strategic Marketing programme are taught by our world-class faculty who have a breadth of industrial and academic knowledge

- Swansea is joint 1st in Wales for international ranked research (REF 2014)

- 93% of Swansea students in employment six months after graduating

- High contact time – our modules come with a lecture (in class sizes capped at approximately 150 students) and seminar/tutorial (in class sizes capped at 30) every single week

- Fully refurbished facilities – we have invested half a million pounds in a recent refurbishment to our student facilities

- Scholarships available for outstanding students

- Swansea is 1st in Wales for world-leading impact - 60% at 4-star level (REF 2014)

Strategic Marketing graduates will gain a strong grounding in both the practical and theoretical aspects of contemporary marketing, including an in-depth understanding and appreciation of relevant ethical issues and social responsibility; arming students with the skills and tools that will allow them to play a valuable part in delivering a sustainable, inclusive and innovative future economy.

Modules

Modules on the Strategic Marketing programme may include:

Consumer Psychology

Strategic Marketing

Digital Marketing

Marketing in Society

Integrated Marketing Communications

Marketing Research

Managing and Marketing Tourist Experiences

Marketing Metrics

Strategic Brand Management

Careers and Employability

We have an excellent track record of placing our graduates including those from the Strategic Marketing programme with major multinational companies and our graduate employment rate is 92%.

From the moment you arrive at the School of Management as a student on the Strategic Marketing programme we will work with you to help you build your skills and experience to enhance your career prospects. During your time with us you’ll have the chance to:

- Undertake a work placement or internship through the Swansea Paid Internship Network (SPIN) or ‘Week of Work’ initiative

- Work and network with employers from a range of national and multi-national companies through our visiting speaker programme

- In conjunction with the International Development Office, undertake an Internship in India, with a company such as GE, Thomson Reuters, 3M, Private Equity or Kanvic Consulting

- Boost your skills and meet employers during our biannual Employability Week

- Complete the Swansea Employability Award

- Participate in one of our student challenges and competitions, such as the Branding Challenge, and CIM student competition ‘The Pitch’

School of Management

The School of Management at Swansea University is building on long-established foundations as one of the UK's top providers of Management, Accounting & Finance and Economic education.

The School of Management's vision is to make a difference to society and the economy locally and globally through excellence in research-led teaching that has resulted in the School being ranked 17th in the UK for research impact* and 26th in the UK for research excellence, all working towards continuing our trend of becoming one of the top business schools in Wales and the UK.

Environment:

The School of Management comprises over 150 staff and more than 2000 students studying at the new £450million Bay Campus, with the School of Management building itself providing truly world-class facilities with an impressive communal Atrium, new teaching rooms, meeting room and IT equipment.

School of Management, alongside the Great Hall, also proudly offers high quality conferencing and event capacity all within half a mile of the M4 corridor, that has already attracted several high profile and key events during the short time that the Bay Campus has been open.

Ambition:

Through its enterprise and innovation activities of business engagement the School plans to focus on three global challenges: Health & Wellbeing, Digital Society and Sustainable Economies. The School of Management's aim is to deliver world-class education through collaboration, innovation and fresh thinking, and we pride ourselves on the outstanding student experience on offer here at the School of Management ensuring a rich learning environment, while also developing our staff in line with Swansea University's wider ambition to anchor and underpin everything we do with a core set of values.

Opportunity:

School of Management aspires to be known globally as a centre for educational excellence, working in partnership with other Swansea University departments and organisations to create joint programmes that reflect the skillsets required by an evolving workplace.

*THE Research Excellence Framework 2014: Institutions ranked by subject

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Our Masters programme in Satellite Communications Engineering is designed to give you the specialist multidisciplinary skills required for careers in the satellite and space industries.

We have an exceptional concentration of academic staff experienced in the satellite area, in addition to well-established contacts with all the major satellite manufacturers, operators and service providers.

Industry participates in the MSc programme in both lecturing and projects, and facilitates excellent engagement for our students. Graduation from this programme will therefore make you very attractive to the relevant space-related industries that employ over 6,500 people in the UK alone.

Read about the experience of a previous student on this course, Thanat Varathon.

Programme structure

This programme is studied full-time over one academic year and part-time students must study at least two taught technical modules per academic year. It consists of eight taught modules and a project.

Example module listing

The following modules are indicative, reflecting the information available at the time of publication. Please note that not all modules described are compulsory and may be subject to teaching availability and/or student demand.

• Digital Communications 
• Space Dynamics & Missions
• Space Systems Design 
• Antennas and Propagation 
• Principles of Telecommunications & Packet Networks
• Satellite Communications Fundamentals
• RF Systems & Circuit Design 
• Data & Internet Networking 
• Advanced Guidance, Navigation & Control 
• Launch Vehicles & Propulsion
• Network & Service Management & Control
• Advanced Satellite Communication Techniques 
• Spacecraft Structures and Mechanisms 
• Standard Project

Facilities, equipment and support

Through consistent investment, we have built up an impressive infrastructure to support our students and researchers. The University of Surrey hosts Surrey Space Centre – a unique facility comprising academics and engineers from our own spin-out company, Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd.

Our mission control centre was designed and developed by students to support international CubeSat operations as part of the GENSO network, and it also supports the development of the University’s own educational satellites.

Our teaching laboratories provide ‘hands-on’ experience of satellite design and construction through the use of EyasSAT nano-satellite kits. They also house meteorological satellite receiving stations for the live reception of satellite weather images.

Elsewhere, our fully equipped RF lab has network analyser, signal and satellite link simulators. The Rohde and Schwartz Satellite Networking Laboratory includes DVBS2-RCS generation and measurement equipment, and roof-mounted antennas to communicating live with satellites.

A security test-bed also exists for satellite security evaluation. We have a full range of software support for assignments and project work, including Matlab, and you will be able to access system simulators already built in-house.

Satellite Communications Engineering students can also make use of SatNEX, a European Network of Excellence in satellite communications supported by ESA; a satellite platform exists to link the 22 partners around Europe. This is used for virtual meetings and to participate in lectures and seminars delivered by partners.

Our own spin-out company, Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd, is situated close by on the Surrey Research Park and provides ready access to satellite production and industrial facilities. In addition, we have a strategic relationship with EADS Airbus Europe-wide and several other major communications companies.

Technical characteristics of the pathway

This programme in satellite communications engineering. provides detailed in-depth knowledge of theory and techniques applicable to radio frequency (RF) and microwave engineering.

The programme includes core modules in both RF and microwave covering all ranges of wireless frequencies and a number of application devices including radio frequency identification (RFID), broadcasting, satellite links, microwave ovens, printed and integrated microwave circuits.

Additional optional modules enable the student to apply the use of RF and microwave in subsystem design for either mobile communications, satellite communications, nanotechnology or for integration with optical communications.

The teaching material and projects are closely related to the research being carried out in the Department’s Advanced Technology Institute and the Institute for Communication Systems.

Global opportunities

We often give our students the opportunity to acquire international experience during their degrees by taking advantage of our exchange agreements with overseas universities.

In addition to the hugely enjoyable and satisfying experience, time spent abroad adds a distinctive element to your CV.

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The digital revolution has resulted in a widening of the number and types of organisations involved in communications. Previously advertising was often confined to larger commercial organisations, however, there is now a need to have a strong web presence. Organisations of all kinds have had to become far more professional in how they communicate with customers, the public and other audiences.

The MSc in Marketing Communications will give you a solid grounding in marketing, while also allowing you to position yourself as a marketing communications specialist. Whether you choose to go on to work in an agency, in house as part of a communications team, or as a freelance consultant, the course will help you gain the skills and insight needed to establish yourself confidently in this field.

Course detail

This course can be taken as a one-year full-time programme, which is ideal if you are at the start of your marketing career. It is also of particular interest to professionals in the creative sector, who can choose to take the flexible part-time route, if they wish to study without taking a career break.

We take a structured approach to developing the professional skills you need to be successful in this field. This includes both intellectual skills exploring different ways of thinking; and practical skills, such as communication, numerical and presentation capabilities.

The course draws heavily on real-world issues, so you will learn the theory but also how to apply it to real-life situations. You will also have plenty of opportunity to engage with employers, with guest lecturers from industry, and research opportunities where you can work on real marketing problems.

Modules

Core modules:

• Contemporary Marketing Practice
• Strategic Marketing Planning
• Principles of Marketing Communications
• Marketing Analytics
• Research Methods for Marketing
• Digital Marketing
• Corporate Communications Dissertation Research Methods

Optional modules:

You will choose one additional subject from the optional modules* below:

• Customer Relationship Management
• Social Marketing Principles and Policy
• Promotion and Society

* The availability of optional modules is subject to demand.

Dissertation

In addition to these modules, your dissertation gives you the chance to research an area of marketing communications that is of particular interest to you and of relevance to your career or company. You will have the choice of working on an academic-type dissertation or a work-based one, where you will work on a live communications project.

You will attend a number of dissertation workshops to provide you with the research training sufficient to produce a quality dissertation.

Format

This is a 'conversion' Masters course, and we assume no prior study of marketing communications. You'll learn though formal classes and seminar sessions, as well as through group work and independent study. The work will include assignments, exercises, case studies and presentations with an emphasis on independent learning to develop your problem-solving skills.

You will also have access to a range of study materials online through our virtual learning environment. This includes online lectures, five-minute 'talking head' discussions and other syllabus-related material to support your learning.

Assessment

Assessment is through supervised mini-projects, presentations, time-constrained assignments and examinations.

Careers / Further study

Getting the right message across to the right people is fundamental to business success and those with expertise in marketing communications are always going to be in demand in roles such as advertising copywriter, PR manager, direct marketing executive, senior brand manager, account manager and marketing communications manager.

If you are already working in the sector, the course will help you take that vital step up the ladder or move into a more specialist role. Graduates of this course have gone on to work with employers such as Creative England, SCISYS and Telefónica UK. Many of our graduates also go on to further academic study by embarking on a PhD.

How to apply

Information on applications can be found at the following link: http://www1.uwe.ac.uk/study/applyingtouwebristol/postgraduateapplications.aspx

Funding

- New Postgraduate Master's loans for 2016/17 academic year –

The government are introducing a master’s loan scheme, whereby master’s students under 60 can access a loan of up to £10,000 as a contribution towards the cost of their study. This is part of the government’s long-term commitment to enhance support for postgraduate study.

Scholarships and other sources of funding are also available.

More information can be found here: http://www1.uwe.ac.uk/students/feesandfunding/fundingandscholarships/postgraduatefunding.aspx

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MSc Strategic Marketing Management features core marketing modules, a selection of specialist marketing modules and a choice of optional modules enabling greater appreciation of other related business functions. Our students come from a wide range of educational backgrounds including business and non-business specific specialisms.

Subject guide and modules

You will develop a knowledge and understanding of marketing processes and procedures, including marketing research, marketing planning and strategy, marketing communications and brand portfolio building. In addition, the modules we teach will enable you to develop a wide range of technical and transferable skills demanded by graduate employers.

Core Modules:
-Marketing Management
-Analysis for Dissertation Research
-Marketing Research
-Marketing Strategy
-Professional Development Programme
-Ethics in Academic Practice

Optional Modules (Choose four)**:
-Intellectual Property Strategy & Management
-Accounting for Non-Financial Managers
-Strategic Business Sustainability
-Marketing Channels & Strategic Sales Force Management
-Integrated Marketing Communications
-Consumer Behaviour
-Strategic Brand Management
-Services Marketing
-International Marketing Management
-Digital Marketing
-Strategic Management

**No more than 2 elective modules can be studied in any term and no more than two from Accounting for Non-Financial Manager, Strategic Business Sustainability, Intellectual Property Strategy & Management and Strategic Management.

The programme then concludes with a dissertation project.

In addition to your Aston degree, you will have the opportunity to participate in our international study exchange programme. Studying with one of our partner institutions, the programme will enhance your international experience and communication skills, preparing you for a career in the international business environment.

Learning, teaching and assessment

The taught modules are assessed through a mixture of examinations and coursework. The taught element of the programme is complemented by a substantial piece of research leading to the completion of a dissertation.

Career opportunities

A wide range of general and specialist roles including product and brand management, market research, market planning and product development, marketing communications/ promotions, media relations and direct marketing. Recent graduate positions include:
-Assistant Marketing Manager – Hyundai
-Brand Manager – Pepsico International (Cyprus)
-Global Communication Executive – Merlin Entertainments (Austria)
-Graduate Trainee Marketing Insight Programme – Tesco (UK)
-Marketing Product Manager – L’Oréal

Our international alumni ambassadors share their experiences of studying at Aston Business School with students all over the world who consider applying for a course at Aston.

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Overview

Passionate about PR and communications? Want to boost your employment prospects? Southampton Solent’s MA PR & Multimedia Communications programme is designed to help graduates build on traditional paradigms of public relations, exploring critically how the PR industry relates to advertising, marketing and journalism.

With an emphasis on the emergence of ‘peer-to-peer’ communications on digital platforms, this course can help improve the employability of both recent graduates and existing practitioners.

- The course curriculum emphasises content creation and management across paid, owned, earned and shared platforms.
- Students study alongside industry experts with a wealth of first-hand insight to share.
- The course is delivered through interactive seminars. These small group sessions allow for open discussion and regular feedback.
- Students will learn how to commission work and manage relationships with advertising, marketing and brand journalism specialists.
- Work placements and freelance projects are a core part of the curriculum, helping to ensure that students graduate with a range of relevant workplace experience.
- Small class sizes allow for flexibility in the curriculum, helping students to tailor the course to their own interests.
- Assignments can be adapted to suit each student’s unique career ambitions or, if they are working, their employer’s needs.
- Students benefit from a range of guest speakers and practical events including a crisis simulation, an ‘eCampaign’ in a day, and participation in industry events.

The industry -

Modern PR practitioners have to grapple with communication that knows no boundaries. The stakeholder relations manager, the corporate journalist, the digital promoter, the brand content manager - these are the jobs of the future, and the graduates filling these posts will need to know how to do their public relations in an integrated way.

The corporate narrative now has to compete with the user generated content. Traditional news and feature journalism is being pushed aside by citizen journalism and brand journalism, causing PR practitioners to re-think their influencer strategies. Advertisers who were once focused on campaigns in print media are now using rich online content, while native advertising is blurring the lines between public relations and advertising. Those who can surf the waves of this multifaceted world will be the most effective (employable) strategic communicators.

The programme -

As the roles of digital newsroom manager, multimedia advertiser, marketing professional, and corporate PR continue to converge, it is increasingly important that students gain first-hand experience of these functions. With opportunities for networking, live client briefs and portfolio development all built into the course, graduates leave Southampton Solent with a wealth of industry relevant experience to show potential employers.

The ‘Professional Development’ unit gives students work-placement and freelance opportunities, enhancing their professional skillset. Students will also be able to pitch for paid work at Solent Creatives, who specialise in connecting students with businesses who need creative support. These projects can help students to strengthen their portfolio of professional work. For full details of each individual unit, please see the ‘course content’ tab.

Learners are encouraged to carry out additional work experience alongside their regular studies. The course team’s close links with industry have helped past students to negotiate placements at top local and national agencies.

As one of the country’s top creative universities (Which? University Student Survey, 2014), Southampton Solent is proud to offer students a range of high-end media facilities. Students also have the opportunity to access an extensive media loans service, where they can borrow high-end video production and photography equipment.

The course concludes with a major project or dissertation. This is another opportunity for students to specialise their knowledge, conducting in-depth research into an area that complements their unique career ambitions.

Course Content

Units include:

- PR in a Multimedia World (30 credits) - this unit covers how the theory and practice of PR changes as communication moves across paid, owned, shared and earned media. Paradigm shifts from traditional PR approaches are considered in the context of actual PR campaigns currently running.
- Multimedia Campaign Planning (30 credits) - students get the opportunity to develop and implement a number of campaign activities across a wide variety of platforms, testing their ability to integrate paid, owned, shared and earned media in a PR campaign.
- Media Measurement & Evaluation (15 credits) - this unit introduces students to the measurement techniques applied in advertising, marketing, promotion and PR sectors, including the evolution of RoE (return on engagement).
- Research Methods (15 credits) - this unit raises the students’ research skills to master’s level and includes SPSS software and other methodologies that are relevant to their particular areas of interest. This is a shared unit.
- Professional Development (30 credits) - this unit positions the MA programme in terms of the student’s career aspiration, identifying skill sets and development needs in a personal development programme. This forms the basis of a freelance/workplace project and informs the student’s choice of dissertation topic.
- Major Project/Dissertation (60 credits) - the culmination of this MA programme. Theory and practice learned in the previous units inform a final research project.

Teaching, learning and assessment -

Work experience:

One unit (Professional Practice) requires a work placement or freelance project to be completed. Students are encouraged to source their own client (through Solent Creatives) or to find a work placement that is appropriate to their career ambitions. The course team will be available to provide support and guidance as necessary.

The placements and projects vary in length, depending on client needs. The minimum required is a two week placement, but on average the client projects last much longer.

Assessment:

Assessment methods include essays, practical portfolios, reflective reports, and campaign outputs. The major project/dissertation unit includes a presentation during the early stages of development. ‘PR in a Multimedia World’ includes an exam.

Our facilities -

We have a fully equipped IT centre with both PC and Mac computers. These feature industry-standard image manipulation, video and audio editing software. Access to camera equipment and professional recording devices for podcast and video creation is highly likely, and access to photographic equipment is always available.

Web-based learning -

Solent’s virtual learning environment (VLE) provides quick online access to assignments, lecture notes, suggested reading and other course information. The unit materials are posted on the VLE and students are expected to have reviewed them prior to attending class. The materials include journal articles, videos and web-based resources.

Why Solent?

What do we offer?

From a vibrant city centre campus to our first class facilities, this is where you can find out why you should choose Solent.

Facilities - http://www.solent.ac.uk/about/facilities/facilities.aspx

City living - http://www.solent.ac.uk/studying/southampton/living-in-southampton.aspx

Accommodation - http://www.solent.ac.uk/studying/accommodation/accommodation.aspx

Career Potential

This course provides students with the skills required to progress onto a range of roles in the public relations and communication industry.

Suitable roles for graduates include:

- Public relations (agency and in-house)
- Marketing
- Digital and social media communications
- Crisis management
- Internal communications
- Research and analysis
- Content management
- Stakeholder relations
- Customer communications analysis
- Brand partnership

Links with industry -

Live client briefs are used for the ‘Multimedia Campaign’ unit. The ‘Professional Practice’ unit requires every student to undertake a work placement or freelance project. Students who are in work while taking the course have the opportunity to adapt the topic of their assignments to suit the needs of their employers. Adaptable units include:

- Dissertation/Final Project
- Multimedia Campaigns
- Professional Practice
- Evaluation and Measurement
- PR in a Multimedia World

There is a strong relationship between the course and the Chartered Institute of Public Relations, as evidenced by the participation of the CIPR Presidents in our eBook in a day events. These events have been organised by the MA students for the past two years.

Transferable skills -

MA PR and Multimedia Communication here at Solent offers students the opportunity to develop multiple transferable skills. Graduates will have gained a range of writing, digital, account management, research presentation, marketing and public speaking skills which are valued in many industries.

Further study -

Graduates will be in a good position to pursue further professional qualifications. Chartered Institute of Public Relations diplomas are available in areas of expertise such as crisis management and internal communication. Membership of the CIPR encourages continued professional development (CPD).

MPhil/PhD options are open to those wishing to pursue academic research and teaching.

Tuition fees

The tuition fees for the 2016/2017 academic year are:

UK and EU full-time fees: £6,500 per year

International full-time fees: £10,930 per year

UK and EU part-time fees: £3,250 per year

International part-time fees: £5,465 per year

Other costs -

Students may travel to central London for an agency visit. This has taken place three times over the past six years. Coach tickets can be found for less than £20, and all day tube passes cost around £10.

Graduation costs -

Graduation is the ceremony to celebrate the achievements of your studies. For graduates in 2015, there is no charge to attend graduation, but you will be required to pay for the rental of your academic gown (approximately £42 per graduate, depending on your award). You may also wish to purchase official photography packages, which range in price from £15 to £200+. Graduation is not compulsory, so if you prefer to have your award sent to you, there is no cost.
For more details, please visit: http://www.solent.ac.uk/studying/graduation/home.aspx

Next steps

Do you want to work on PR campaigns, deliver communications strategies and create exciting multimedia content? Southampton Solent University’s public relations and multimedia communications programme is both academically challenging and industry focused, helping to equip you with the essential skills that PR employers require.

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Public relations is a booming industry and has continued to grow year-on-year. The numbers of Public Relations Officers (PROs) now match journalists in the UK and there is a big demand for graduates who have the skills to meet the dynamic changes of this exciting and growing sector.

Public relations specialisms are expanding too, and graduates are gaining jobs in a number of areas including crisis management, corporate social responsibility, media relations, corporate communication, sponsorship and internal communication.

The MA International Public Relations and Global Communications Management is a unique one year course that develops the skills and techniques required to practice public relations and communications at an international level.

Public relations, at its heart, is about communication between an organisation and its public(s), but 21st century public relations - with the advent of new media - is embedded in everything from politics and business to celebrity. PR is now firmly at the heart of strategic organisational planning.

Aside from gaining valuable practical skills, you are introduced to business, organisational and PR theory so that you can apply critical thinking to professional scenarios to further the effectiveness and quality of public relations that is practiced in industry. This synthesis of theory and practice culminates in a final dissertation of 15,000 to 20,000 words where you have the opportunity to apply what you have learnt to an area of personal PR interest. This piece of advanced academic study would enable you to embark on further research in the field of international public relations, should you wish to do so.

Distinctive features

• The degree is fully accredited by the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) and we are one of only ten Partner Universities in the UK to the Public Relations Consultants Association (PRCA).

• Our School was ranked first in the Guardian’s University league table for Journalism and Public Relations (2016 and 2017).

• The degree is designed for both UK/EU and international students interested in international PR and communications management.

• Your student group will come from a wide range of national and cultural backgrounds offering you exposure to comparative practices.

• It is a hybrid course mixing both theory and practice.

Structure

This is a full-time course and is taught across two semesters (Autumn and Spring) from the end of September to the beginning of June.

The dissertation can be practice-based - providing you with an opportunity to apply theory to the practice of communications management and public relations.

Core modules:

International Public Relations Theory
International Public Relations Practice
Research Methods 1
Research Methods 2
Global Communications Management
Digital Communications Management
Project Based Dissertation

Teaching

You will be taught through workshops, lectures and seminars which complement the practical and academic elements of the course. You will also have access to industry leading professionals through the courses guest lecture series.

Assessment

You will be assessed through a range of formative and summative assessments throughout the course. The main method of assessment on this programme is coursework.

Career Prospects

Graduates of MA International Public Relations and Global Communications Management are employed in a range of occupations; roles can range from Public Relations Executives, Press Officers, Communications Managers and Copywriters for global and UK corporations.

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Introduction

This variant of our established MSc Strategic Public Relations & Communication Management course is delivered jointly with our partner Pompeu Fabra University in Barcelona, Spain. This course provides students with a solid international perspective on strategic communication and provides an opportunity to study in both Stirling, UK, and Barcelona, Spain.

The MSc Strategic Communication & Public Relations is an interdisciplinary, advanced level course taught by established academics and practitioners. It offers a hands-on approach while at the same time providing you with the theoretical foundations necessary to practise public relations at a managerial level.

You will be offered the opportunity to attend a Public Affairs and Lobbying seminar series in Brussels, which includes visits to the European Parliament, the European Commission as well as specialist industry seminars with leading public affairs and public relations experts in Brussels.

This course is taught completely in English and students will obtain a joint MSc degree from the University of Stirling and Pompeu Fabra University. Students spend the Semester 1 at the University of Stirling and then move to Pompeu Fabra University for Semester 2. Students then decide if they would like to have their dissertation supervised by Stirling or Pompeu Fabra.

Link to MSc Strategic Communication and Public Relations at Pompeu Fabra University http://www.upf.edu/masterpublicrelations/en/

Key information

- Degree type: MSc, Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma

- Study methods: Full-time

- Duration: 12 months (Stirling in semester 1 - Barcelona in semester 2 - Stirling dissertation period) 16 months (Stirling in semester 1 Barcelona in semester 2 - Barcelona dissertation period)

- Start date: September

- Course Director: Dr Alenka Jelen-Sanchez

English language requirements

If English is not your first language you must have one of the following qualifications as evidence of your English language skills:

- IELTS: 6.5 with 6.0 minimum in each skill

- Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): Grade C

- Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): Grade B

- Pearson Test of English (Academic): 60 with 56 in each component

- IBT TOEFL: 90 with no subtest less than 20

For more information go to English language requirements https://www.stir.ac.uk/study-in-the-uk/entry-requirements/english/

If you don’t meet the required score you may be able to register for one of our pre-sessional English courses. To register you must hold a conditional offer for your course and have an IELTS score 0.5 or 1.0 below the required standard. View the range of pre-sessional courses http://www.intohigher.com/uk/en-gb/our-centres/into-university-of-stirling/studying/our-courses/course-list/pre-sessional-english.aspx .

Structure and content

Students spend Semester 1 at the University of Stirling and then go to Pompeu Fabra University for Semester 2. Students then can decide to have their dissertation supervision at the University of Stirling or Pompeu Fabra University.

The course covers a range of modules including public relations and communication management theory, strategic public relations planning, public diplomacy and strategic communication, media relations, digital media, public affairs and advocacy, and research methods.

Delivery and assessment

Delivery methods include lecture, workshops and seminars.

Methods of assessment include case studies, timed assignments, essays, presentations and reports. Students also complete a 12,000-word dissertation.

Why Stirling?

- REF2014

In REF2014 Stirling was placed 6th in Scotland and 45th in the UK with almost three quarters of research activity rated either world-leading or internationally excellent.

- Rating

Research within Communications, Media and Culture had 70 percent of its research rated as either ‘World-leading’ or ‘Internationally Excellent’ in the most recent Research Assessment Exercise. Pompeu Fabra staff are also research active and publish internationally.

Strengths

- Academic strengths

This course provides a unique multicultural and intercultural experience for students as well as an innovative and challenging curriculum that is regularly updated. Students will develop a solid theoretical foundation as well as learn practical skills necessary for working within the public relations industry.

Students benefit from the experience and expertise of the academic research active team at Stirling and Pompeu Fabra; students are able to study in both northern and southern Europe (Scotland and Spain) and will develop an international outlook.

Students are able to attend a two-day Public Affairs and Lobbying seminar series delivered in Brussels (additional cost).

Career opportunities

This course prepares students for careers in public relations and related areas in consultancies and private sector companies, (in-house positions, such as communications officer/manager, public relations officer/manager, press officer, internal communications officer/manager) NGOS, international organisations (such as the EU, UN etc.).

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The MSc in Strategic Marketing is designed to provide you with the foundation for a successful career in marketing.

You will study modules which cover the fundamentals of marketing including strategic marketing management, behavioural aspects of marketing, research in strategic marketing, integrated marketing communications, measuring marketing effectiveness, marketing and society, international marketing and digital media marketing.

Once you have completed the taught modules you will embark upon a Marketing Project working with a real organisation. The Marketing Project gives you the chance to apply the knowledge and skills gained in the taught modules to address a live marketing issue and to present possible solutions.

The course is designed to be relevant to a wide range of students from both developed and developing countries with career aspirations in a wide variety of marketing situations.

It provides you with expertise in all aspects of strategic marketing and is excellent preliminary training for those who wish to pursue further research for a PhD with a view to an academic or similar research-orientated career.

This degree programme is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) for the CIM Dual Award. Students graduating successfully from Business Management (Marketing) are entitled to attain the CIM Professional Diploma in Marketing by studying for and passing two CIM assessments instead of the four normally required.

Distinctive features:

• You will be part of a community which is committed to delivering social improvement alongside economic development in the world’s first Public Value Business School.

• You will study at a Business School ranked 1st in the UK for research environment and 6th for research excellence (REF 2014).

• You will be a student of the only business school in Wales accredited by AACSB international (and one of only 5% worldwide).

• A live Marketing Project working with an organisation gives you the chance to apply their knowledge and skills to a real-life marketing issue.

Structure

The programme has two academic stages, leading to the award of a Master’s Degree. The programme is for full-time students and runs for one calendar year.

• Stage 1 consists of eight modules (120 credits in total).
• Stage 2 consists of a Marketing Project of 60 credits.

This course is taught from September to June and you will take a range of core modules.

Upon successful completion of the taught phase you will proceed to the Marketing Project which takes the place of a traditional dissertation.

The Marketing Project aims to integrate and apply core marketing course concepts, skills and techniques holistically, experientially and in a self-guiding context in order to construct and present a complete marketing project report for an organisation based on a defined brief.

Core modules:

Strategic Marketing Management
Behavioural Aspects of Marketing
Research in Strategic Marketing
Integrated Marketing Communications
Digital Media Marketing
Measuring Marketing Effectiveness
Marketing and Society
International Marketing
Project

Methods of teaching

Most modules involve a mixture of lectures and small group teaching (called classes, seminars, workshops or tutorials).

In a lecture, the lecturer will mainly be giving an overview of a particular aspect of the module content (as well as opportunities for you to ask questions and be reflective), while in classes and workshops you will have an opportunity to practice techniques, discuss ideas, apply concepts and consolidate your understanding in the topic

Support

You will be allocated a personal tutor at the beginning of your studies. Normally, your personal tutor will teach on your own degree course and you will keep the same personal tutor throughout your course.

Your personal tutor will be able to give you advice on academic issues, including module choice and assessment. If you encounter any problems which affect your studies, your personal tutor should always be your first point of contact; she/he will be able to put you in touch with the wide range of expert student support services provided by the University and the Students' Union as appropriate. You are required to meet with your personal tutor at three points during each academic year but you are also encouraged to get in touch with them at any other point if you need help or advice.

For day-to-day information, the staff of our Postgraduate Student Hub are available, in person, by telephone or by email, from 8am to 6pm each weekday during term time to answer your questions.

Feedback

We’ll provide you with regular feedback on your work. This comes in a variety of formats including oral feedback, personalised feedback on written work, and generic written feedback.

You will be given general feedback in relation to examinations following all examination periods and you will be able to discuss your overall performance with your personal tutor.

When undertaking the dissertation/project you are expected to meet regularly with your supervisor to review progress and discuss any questions. Your supervisor will be able to provide feedback on your research plan and drafts of your work as you progress.

Assessment

Assessment methods vary from module to module but, across your degree scheme as a whole, you can expect a mixture of exams, coursework, essays, practical work, presentations, and individual and group projects.

Career prospects

This MSc aims to offer knowledge and expertise for a career in marketing in the UK or overseas in industry, commerce or the public sector, or to pursue further research for a PhD.

Graduates from this course have gone on to careers in digital marketing, tourism marketing, advertising, product development marketing, customer relationship management, etc.

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