MSc Marketing

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Essex

Program Overview

The MSc Marketing at the University of Essex is designed for anyone looking to take their marketing knowledge to the next level. Over one intensive year, you’ll dive into the world of marketing strategy, consumer behaviour, and branding while exploring the ethical and cultural considerations that shape modern business. It’s perfect if you want to combine theory with practical skills and prepare for a fast-moving marketing career.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
In this one-year full-time master’s, you’ll start with Research Methods in Marketing, where you’ll get hands-on with both quantitative and qualitative research techniques and learn how to tackle real-world marketing questions ethically. Consumer Behaviour helps you understand why people buy, what influences their choices, and how businesses can respond strategically. With Marketing Strategy, you’ll explore tools and frameworks to make smart marketing decisions that create real value for customers and companies alike. Perspectives on Marketing broadens your horizons, introducing you to global marketing, services, and ethical practices, while optional modules let you focus on areas that interest you most. Finally, the Professional & Academic Development program will guide your personal growth and prepare you for your future career.

Dissertation
The program culminates in a 15,000-word dissertation, giving you the freedom to explore a marketing topic you’re passionate about, while applying the skills and knowledge you’ve gained throughout the year. You’ll be supported by academic supervisors every step of the way.

Focus Areas

Consumer behaviour, marketing strategy, branding, global and ethical marketing, and practical marketing analytics.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the program, you’ll have strong research skills, the ability to critically evaluate marketing strategies, and the confidence to make strategic marketing decisions in real-world business contexts.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

This MSc is CIM-accredited, giving you exemptions toward professional Chartered Institute of Marketing qualifications and a head start in your marketing career.

Reputation & Employability

Essex Business School is recognised for research-led teaching and strong industry connections. Graduates have gone on to work in organisations such as KPMG, HP, Groupon, and various digital marketing agencies, giving you excellent prospects after graduation.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Essex, learning marketing goes far beyond the lecture hall. On this MSc, you’ll gain hands-on experience solving real-world marketing challenges through group projects, case studies, and live simulations. You’ll also have access to the same software, tools, and facilities that professional marketers use, helping you turn theory into practical skills while preparing for a career in a fast-moving industry.

Here’s what you can expect:

Professional marketing software: Get practical experience with tools like SPSS, AMOS, SmartPLS, and Tableau, widely used in research and industry to analyse data and build insights.
Market research access: Dive into real consumer and market data through resources like Mintel, giving your projects a professional edge.
Collaborative learning spaces: Essex Business School’s modern study areas and breakout zones make teamwork, brainstorming, and peer learning easy and enjoyable.
Guest speakers and industry input: Learn from marketing professionals and visiting experts who bring live business challenges straight into your coursework.
Career support & internships: The university’s Employability & Careers Service helps you explore internships, placements, and networking opportunities with top employers.
Creative and digital facilities: Use the Students’ Union Creative Suite and other campus tools to create professional marketing content and campaigns.
Sustainable, inspiring environment: Study in the zero‑carbon Essex Business School building, reflecting the ethical and social focus you’ll explore in your course.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating from the MSc Marketing at Essex opens the door to exciting career paths in the world of marketing and business. Many alumni step into roles like Marketing Manager, Brand or Product Specialist, Marketing Analyst, or Digital Strategist, often joining top companies such as KPMG, HP, Groupon, and Footprint Digital. You’ll leave with the practical skills, strategic thinking, and professional insight to make an immediate impact in the workplace.

Here’s how Essex helps you get there:

Dedicated career support: The Essex Employability & Careers Service helps with CV writing, interview preparation, internship guidance, and networking opportunities with real employers.
Strong employment outcomes: Around 90% of Essex business and management graduates are working or studying within 15 months of graduation. Starting salaries average £27,000, rising to about £35,000 within five years.
Industry connections: Through partnerships with companies like Footprint Digital, Coast Digital, KPMG, HP, and Groupon, you’ll gain insights into real marketing challenges and opportunities.
Professional accreditation: The MSc is CIM-accredited, giving you exemptions toward Chartered Institute of Marketing qualifications and a head start in your career.
Graduate opportunities: Many graduates move into management roles, strategic marketing, or analytical positions, using their skills to drive brand growth, marketing campaigns, and business strategy.

Further Academic Progression:
If you want to continue your studies, Essex provides clear pathways to research. You could pursue a PhD in Management, Marketing, or Management Studies, supported by the Management & Marketing research group, which explores areas like ethical marketing, consumer behaviour, and branding. This is ideal if you’re interested in making a contribution to academic knowledge while building advanced expertise.