Social Media & Digital Marketing BA

Social Media and Digital Marketing combines creativity, communication, and data analysis to help brands connect with audiences online. It explores how to design, deliver, and measure effective marketing campaigns across digital channels such as social media, websites, email, and search engines.

A Bachelor’s degree in Social Media and Digital Marketing teaches students to develop marketing strategies, manage online content, and analyse performance using digital tools. It prepares graduates for careers in marketing, communications, and media across a wide range of industries.

Why Study Social Media and Digital Marketing?

There are many reasons why students choose to study Social Media and Digital Marketing:

• A passion for digital communication, branding, and creativity.

  
  

• The opportunity to work with real clients and build marketing portfolios.

  
  

• Growing global demand for digital marketing professionals.

  
  

• The chance to learn cutting-edge marketing tools, trends, and analytics.

  
  

• Strong career progression in fast-moving digital industries.

  
  

• The ability to combine creativity with business and data-driven insight.

This degree suits students who are both creative and analytical, and who enjoy working in dynamic, technology-driven environments.

Course Duration and Structure

In the UK, a BA or BSc in Social Media and Digital Marketing typically takes three years of full-time study, or four years with a placement year, foundation year, or study abroad option.

A typical course structure includes:

Year 1: Introduction to marketing principles, digital media, and communication theory. Students explore audience behaviour and online branding.

Year 2: Intermediate study in social media strategy, content creation, and digital analytics. Students work on live campaigns and develop practical marketing projects.

Year 3: Advanced modules in brand management, marketing innovation, and strategic communication. The final year includes a dissertation or applied project based on digital campaign analysis or marketing strategy.

Most programmes include opportunities for industry placements or collaborations with marketing and media companies.

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements vary between universities but typically include one of the following:

• A Levels: In Business, Media Studies, or English.

  
  

• BTEC: A relevant Extended Diploma in Business, Marketing, or Creative Media.

  
  

• International Baccalaureate (IB): Including a Business, Arts, or Humanities subject.

  
  

• Other qualifications: Access to Higher Education Diploma in Business, Marketing, or Media.

  
  

• English language proficiency: Required for applicants whose first language is not English.

  
  

• Applicants with experience in content creation, blogging, or managing social media accounts are encouraged to showcase examples of their work.

Teaching and Assessment

Social Media and Digital Marketing degrees combine theory, creative practice, and data-driven analysis. Students learn through:

Lectures and seminars

• Marketing workshops and live client projects

  
  

• Practical sessions using analytics and social media management tools

  
  

• Group projects and campaign development

  
  

• Independent research and dissertation work

Assessment methods typically include:

• Coursework and written reports

  
  

• Creative campaign projects

  
  

• Marketing plans and strategy presentations

  
  

• Portfolio assessments

  
  

• Examinations and reflective journals

  
  

• A final dissertation or applied marketing project

Many universities use simulation software and digital platforms such as Google Analytics, Meta Business Suite, and Hootsuite to develop practical skills.

Skills You Will Develop

A degree in Social Media and Digital Marketing develops creative, analytical, and strategic abilities, including:

• Digital marketing strategy and campaign planning

• Social media management and content creation

  
  

• Search engine optimisation (SEO) and search marketing (SEM)

  
  

• Data analysis and performance measurement

  
  

• Branding and customer engagement

  
  

• Copywriting and communication

  
  

• Project management and teamwork

  
  

• Market research and critical thinking

These skills are highly valued across marketing, communications, and digital industries.

Career Prospects

Graduates of Social Media and Digital Marketing degrees can pursue careers in a variety of business and media sectors.

Typical career paths include:

• Digital marketing executive or manager

  
  

• Social media strategist or content creator

  
  

• Brand manager or marketing coordinator

  
  

• Digital advertising specialist

  
  

• SEO or analytics consultant

  
  

• Public relations officer

  
  

• E-commerce marketing executive

  
  

• Further study in marketing, business, or communications

Employers include marketing agencies, global brands, media companies, start-ups, and not-for-profit organisations.

Tips for Prospective Students

• Build your personal online brand and portfolio to showcase digital skills.

  
  

• Learn the basics of analytics tools such as Google Analytics and SEMrush.

  
  

• Follow digital marketing trends and algorithm updates on major platforms.

  
  

• Volunteer to manage social media for local businesses or community projects.

  
  

• Gain certifications from Google Digital Garage, HubSpot Academy, or Meta Blueprint.

  
  

• Join professional bodies such as the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) or Digital Marketing Institute (DMI).

Course Variations

Universities offer several related and specialist degrees, including:

Digital Marketing and Communications: Linking marketing management with creative media.

Marketing and Advertising: Combining creative promotion with strategic marketing.

Media and Communication: Exploring communication theory and digital influence.

Business and Marketing Management: Focusing on broader business principles with digital applications.

Social Media Management: Concentrating on platform strategy and audience engagement.

Digital Branding and Design: Emphasising creativity and visual marketing skills.

Recommended Wider Reading for Aspiring Social Media and Digital Marketing Students

For those considering or beginning a degree in Social Media and Digital Marketing, the following books and resources provide useful insight:

“Digital Marketing: Strategy, Implementation and Practice” by Dave Chaffey and Fiona Ellis-Chadwick – A comprehensive guide to digital marketing theory and tools.

“Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook” by Gary Vaynerchuk – Practical advice on social media content and engagement.

“Contagious: How to Build Word of Mouth in the Digital Age” by Jonah Berger – Understanding viral content and consumer psychology.

“Measure What Matters” by Katie Delahaye Paine – A key text on metrics and campaign evaluation.

Google Digital Garage – Free professional training in digital marketing and analytics.

HubSpot Academy – Resources and certification in inbound marketing and content strategy.

Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) – UK professional body offering marketing qualifications and networking.