Course description
The PGDip/MSc Marketing is innovative and unique. It is an academically challenging and strategically relevant programme in advanced marketing study, with a particular emphasis on entrepreneurship. The programme is distinctive in exploring leading edge thinking from scholarly sources, alongside a diet rich in the practical application of marketing and entrepreneurship. The programme has been designed in conjunction with senior marketing executives from industry as well as local entrepreneurs. It addresses the strategic imperative that companies must become more focused on the possibilities that emerge through entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial thinking. This can have quite an impact on students.
Michael Jenkins is completing the programme alongside establishing a business venture. His Up and Running athletics equipment franchise in Belfast is the best performing store in the chain in the UK.
"My participation in the Master's programme at the University of Ulster has made me question and challenge the way I approach my business. I am now thinking on a much bigger scale. Almost every class and module I do has a strong connection with my business."
Students undertake eight modules to complete the PGDip and then complete a dissertation for the MSc Marketing and Entrepreneurship.
Modules include: Marketing & Research Principles, E-marketing, Entrepreneurial Marketing in Practice, Leadership and Management, Macro Marketing, Marketing Management, Enterprise Development, and Dissertation Development.
Duration and Mode of Attendance
A distinctive feature of the programme is that each of the modules are delivered over the course of three full days, giving a learning experience that is deep and intense. The timetable for the full year is given in advance so that full-time and part-time students can plan ahead.
Full-time
MSc - one full year (September-September)
Postgraduate Diploma - one academic year (September-June)
Part-time
MSc - two academic years (September-June) plus one semester (June-September).
Postgraduate Diploma - two academic years at Jordanstown.
Professional Recognition
Graduates may obtain exemptions from professional examinations of The Chartered Institute of Marketing. Further information on exemptions may be obtained from the CIM.
Teaching and Learning Active participation by students in the learning process takes place through case studies, experimental and practical exercises, verbal and written presentations, individual and group projects and directed private study. Various assessment methods are used, including conventional essays and practical exercises, individual or group projects, case studies, seminar presentations and class tests. In keeping with our close links with industry, the prize for Best Student is sponsored by Wrightbus Ltd and the prize for the Best Dissertation is sponsored by Millward Brown Ulster Ltd.
Skills and Competencies
This programme is designed and delivered by staff who have extensive experience in both the business sector and education sector. Their combined expertise is brought to bear on the professional development of participants. On completion, participants can expect to have:
• depth of knowledge and understanding of marketing, especially in the context of entrepreneurial organisations;
• significantly developed intellectual qualities; and
• practical and professional skills appropriate for a career in business.
