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

Level 6
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Banbridge Campus
The Open University

Overview

Digital Marketing has become an emerging and dynamic industry within the UK and Irish economies. The development of a Level 6 BSc (Hons) in Digital Marketing, Advertising and Communications will help reduce this skills gap. This Higher Level Apprenticeship also provides opportunities for upskilling and reskilling of new and existing employees.

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

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

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

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

Further information on Open University regulations can be found at this link or below.
Programme Specification

SRC OU Admissions Guidelines

SRC OU Assessment Handbook

SRC OU Extenuating Circumstances Procedures

SRC OU RPL Guidelines

SRC OU Regulations for Validated Awards

SRC Student Protection Plan

SRC OU RPL Guidelines

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

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

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age on or before 1st July in the year of proposed entry to the course.

Applicants must have attained a Level 5 Foundation Degree in Digital Marketing, Advertising and Communications or a closely related qualification
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 those entering a Higher Level Apprenticeship (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 applicant 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. All apprentices must work a minimum contract of 21 hours per week (which includes time for ‘off-the-job’ training) and have achieved all necessary entry qualifications determined by the relevant sector. Applicants need to meet other eligibility considerations, for example you may not be eligible if you are a non-EU national, a public sector worker or based on the qualifications you have previously been awarded. Further details can be found at NI Direct.

The College’s Admissions Policy reflects the expectations of the UK Quality Code May 2023. 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. The list of acceptable qualifications for equivalency to English and mathematics for Ulster University is available from the following link: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/apply/entrance-requirements#eng. 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.

Applicants who do not meet the criteria outlined above but have evidence of substantial knowledge or relevant industrial experience and skills, which has not been formally assessed, should refer to the College’s Accreditation of Prior Experience and Learning (APEL) Procedure.

For further detail on our entry requirements please review our Admissions Policy & Criteria.

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