Marketing (Advertising and Public Relations) (Hons) Birmingham City University

Overview

Our BA (Hons) Marketing (Advertising and Public Relations) programme at Birmingham City University is meticulously crafted to prepare students for the dynamic world of marketing. This course emphasises the importance of a brand's external image and reputation, equipping students with the practical skills necessary to excel as advertising and public relations specialists. You will not only acquire the theoretical knowledge required for effective marketing but also develop the personal skills and real-world experience that employers value, ensuring you can make a significant impact upon graduation.

Key components of this course include a strong focus on employability, sustainability, and the integration of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, simulation, and data analytics. These elements are vital as you prepare for a career in advertising or public relations across various modern business environments. The curriculum is designed to foster innovative, agile, and flexible marketing professionals who can respond adeptly to evolving situations and seize opportunities in a competitive landscape.

A standout feature of this programme is the opportunity to engage with The Link Agency, our student-led, in-house marketing agency. This unique initiative allows you to work on live projects for real clients, providing invaluable experience. Previous clients of The Link Agency include prominent organisations such as the BullRing Shopping Centre, Acorns Children’s Hospice, and Solihull Moors FC.

Why Marketing (Advertising and Public Relations) at Birmingham City University?

Birmingham City University boasts a strong emphasis on employability, supported by extensive partnerships with local and international businesses. The university's commitment to practice-based learning ensures that students graduate not only with a degree but also with the skills and experiences that are highly sought after in the job market. Our facilities, including the state-of-the-art Curzon Building, provide a conducive environment for learning and collaboration.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

For the academic year 2026/27, the tuition fees for the BA (Hons) Marketing (Advertising and Public Relations) programme are as follows:

• National Students: £9,535 per year
• International Students: £18,570 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The course covers a comprehensive range of modules designed to build a solid foundation in marketing:

• Marketing Principles and Practice
• Design in Marketing
• Introduction to Data Analytics and AI
• Finance for Managers
• Digital Marketing Principles
• Entrepreneurial Experience
• Consumer Behaviour
• Advertising and PR: Principles and Practice
• Brand Management and Visual Communications
• Integrated Marketing Communications
• Marketing Research and Consultancy
• Professional Placement Year (optional)
• Marketing Strategy and Planning
• Sustainable Marketing
• Contemporary Advertising Practice
• PR Planning and Reputation Management in the Digital Era

Students also have the opportunity to participate in The Pitch, an annual nationwide marketing competition organised by the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM). This event allows students to apply their academic knowledge and creative skills to solve real-world marketing challenges, enhancing their employability and practical skills.

Moreover, the course offers an optional professional placement year, providing students with the chance to gain invaluable experience in a professional setting. Previous students have secured placements with renowned companies such as Sky, Johnson & Johnson, and Disney, significantly boosting their career prospects.

With a focus on employability and entrepreneurship, this programme prepares graduates for diverse roles in marketing, advertising, and public relations, ensuring they are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of the modern business landscape.