Social Media Management BA/BSc

Social Media Management focuses on the strategy, creation, and analysis of content across digital and social platforms. It combines marketing, communication, data analytics, and creative media to engage audiences, build brand identities, and drive online growth.

A Bachelor’s degree in Social Media Management prepares students to plan, manage, and evaluate social media campaigns for businesses, non-profits, and individuals. It blends theory and hands-on practice in digital marketing, content production, and audience engagement.

Why Study Social Media Management?

There are many reasons why students choose to study Social Media Management:

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

  
  

• The opportunity to combine marketing, design, and storytelling skills.

  
  

• Growing demand for social media and digital marketing professionals.

  
  

• Hands-on experience managing live campaigns and brand projects.

  
  

• The chance to work with real clients and build an online portfolio.

  
  

• Clear progression into roles across media, marketing, and business sectors.

This degree suits students who are creative, analytical, and interested in how social media influences communication, culture, and business strategy.

Course Duration and Structure

In the UK, a BA or BSc in Social Media Management 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 digital communication, marketing principles, and media production. Students learn how audiences interact with brands and online platforms.

Year 2: Intermediate modules in content strategy, social media analytics, and creative campaign design. Students develop practical skills in managing online communities and interpreting engagement data.

Year 3: Advanced study in digital branding, media ethics, and strategic management. The final year includes a dissertation or applied project focused on a live social media campaign or digital research.

Many programmes include placements, internships, or collaborations with marketing agencies, brands, or media companies.

Entry Requirements

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

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

  
  

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

  
  

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

  
  

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

  
  

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

Experience with social media platforms, digital content creation, or online marketing is beneficial but not essential.

Teaching and Assessment

Social Media Management degrees combine creative, analytical, and strategic learning approaches. Students learn through:

Lectures and seminars

• Workshops in digital content creation and editing

  
  

• Group projects and live campaign management

  
  

• Data analysis and marketing strategy sessions

  
  

• Independent research and dissertation work

  
  

Assessment methods typically include:

• Coursework and written reports

  
  

• Creative portfolios and campaign proposals

  
  

• Group projects and presentations

  
  

• Marketing plans and digital audits

  
  

• A final dissertation or practical campaign project

Students often build professional portfolios showcasing social media strategies, branding projects, and analytics reports.

Skills You Will Develop

A degree in Social Media Management develops a mix of creative, technical, and strategic skills, including:

• Social media strategy and campaign planning

  
  

• Digital marketing and brand management

  
  

• Content creation, writing, and visual design

  
  

• Audience analysis and engagement

  
  

• Data analytics and performance reporting

  
  

• Communication and storytelling

  
  

• Project management and teamwork

  
  

• Research and critical thinking

These skills are highly sought after across marketing, media, and business industries.

Career Prospects

Graduates of Social Media Management degrees are well-positioned for digital and communications careers across a variety of sectors.

Typical career paths include:

• Social media manager or strategist

  
  

• Digital marketing executive

  
  

• Content creator or copywriter

  
  

• Brand manager or communications officer

  
  

• Community manager or influencer coordinator

  
  

• PR or media relations specialist

  
  

• Market researcher or digital analyst

  
  

• Further study in marketing, media, or business management

Employers include marketing agencies, global brands, charities, start-ups, and media companies.

Tips for Prospective Students

• Build your own professional online presence before starting your degree.

  
  

• Experiment with content creation tools such as Canva, Adobe Creative Cloud, or video editing software.

  
  

• Stay up to date with trends in digital marketing and social media algorithms.

  
  

• Develop writing, photography, and design skills to enhance creativity.

  
  

• Gain experience by volunteering to manage social media for local businesses or charities.

Join professional organisations such as the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) or Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA).

Course Variations

Universities offer several related and specialist degrees, including:

Digital Marketing: Emphasising marketing principles and digital campaign management.

Media and Communication: Exploring the broader media landscape and communication theory.

Marketing and Public Relations: Combining marketing strategy with brand reputation management.

Digital Media Production: Focusing on creative content and multimedia design.

Advertising and Marketing Communications: Linking creative media and commercial strategy.

Business and Marketing: Offering a management-based approach to social media and promotion.

Recommended Wider Reading for Aspiring Social Media Management Students

For those considering or beginning a degree in Social Media Management, the following books and resources provide valuable insight:

“Social Media Marketing: A Strategic Approach” by Melissa Barker et al. – Covers strategy, analytics, and campaign design.

“Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook” by Gary Vaynerchuk – Insights into effective content and audience engagement.

“Measure What Matters” by Katie Delahaye Paine – Practical guide to social media metrics and evaluation.

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

Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) – Professional body offering courses and accreditation.

Hootsuite Academy and Google Digital Garage – Free resources for digital marketing and analytics skills.

Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) – UK organisation for communication professionals.