Undergraduate Course
Digital Marketing and Data Analytics BSc (Hons)
Become an invaluable member of any digital team with the skills to understand how best to market to your target audience.
The global business environment continues to become increasingly competitive and challenging. Businesses need to be more innovative, take more risks and develop sustainable business models that serve their customers and have a positive impact on society. On this course, you will gain the knowledge and understanding to succeed in digital marketing and data analytics.
- Available in Clearing
Please note: This course will not be recruiting for September 2025.
Please note accreditations may be subject to change, and are dependent on fulfilling the awarding bodies criteria.
York campus
- UCAS code – N111 (N118 with placement year)
- Duration – 3 years full time, 4 years full time with placement
- Start date – September 2024
- School – York Business School
Minimum entry requirements
104 UCAS Tariff points
3 GCSEs at grade C/4 (or equivalent) including English Language and Maths.
Tuition fees
UK 2024 entry £9,250 per year full time
International 2024 entry £11,500 per year full time
Discover Marketing
Emma Johnson, Course Leader for Marketing, introduces us to Marketing and Digital Marketing and Data Analytics at York St John University.
Course overview
The digital revolution has changed the face of marketing forever. Learn to analyse, evaluate and develop digital marketing strategies which meet the needs of businesses in our changing world. Modules will focus on how different digital marketing tools and channels can be used to market products and services.
You will be introduced to contemporary marketing theory and practice, with a focus on data analysis. We will equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to be successful in modern marketing. You will build a portfolio of materials to present to future employers.
You will also learn about:
- Consumer behaviour and digital trends
- Research methods
- Marketing communications
- Web design and analytics
- Social media content and influencer marketing
- Blockchain technology, its applications and the use of coding
We will encourage you to think analytically, strategically and ethically. You will explore how data analytics are reshaping business concepts, managerial decision making and marketing.
You will have the opportunity to attend exhibitions and a series of inspiring lectures with guest speakers. In the past we have hosted CEOs and Chief Executives from Pandora, Royal Mail, Asda and Welcome to Yorkshire.
As a Business School we are passionate about social responsibility and sustainability, these values will be embedded throughout this course. We are a Principles of Responsible Management Education (PRME) signatory for the United Nations. Our mission is to develop your potential so that you can make a difference in society.
This course is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM). Through the CIM partnership, you can gain further certificates and invitations to events and webinars. You will also have the opportunity to qualify as a Microsoft Office Specialist.
In recent yeaes our year 3 students have taken part in the Chartered Institute of Marketing Pitch Competition, with one group obtaining a place in the finals.
Course structure
Year 1
Our academic year is split into 2 semesters.
In your first year, you will study:
- 3 compulsory modules in semester 1
- 3 compulsory modules in semester 2
You can find out which modules are available in each semester on the Course Specifications.
Modules
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module you will examine the nature of business enterprise and its relationship with wider society, focusing on what it means to be a responsible business. In the ongoing debate about what a business behaving responsibly really means, we will investigate ideas including:
- Stakeholder theory
- The triple bottom line
- Corporate social responsibility
- Business ethics
- The role of the state
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
The ability to recognise and meet customer needs is an important factor in the success of all organisations. You will learn how organisations can identify and address the needs of internal and external stakeholders. You will be introduced to specific marketing concepts, such as the marketing mix, SWOT, PESTLE, segmentation, targeting and positioning. You will also review communication methods, and consider the wider definition of marketing, its role within business and its functions.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module you will develop front end web authoring skills. We will help you to analyse user experience issues on the web, such as inclusive web design and accessibility. You will learn basic skills in markup languages for creating websites, such as:
- HTML
- CSS
- Javascript
You will investigate legal issues like copyright and Creative Commons licenses.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
In the age of Big Data, analytics is becoming a necessity in all areas of business. It is an essential tool to drive managerial decisions and sustain competitive advantage. This module will teach you how to business data. We will consider the importance of visualising and understanding data, and representing data in a meaningful way so we can use it for decision making. You will also examine the importance of Big Data in today’s business environment and the increasing significance of Blockchain.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module we will introduce you to essential quantitative methods for modelling and analysing financial data. You will investigate statistics and probability concepts, and then use these theories to analyse practical situations. This module feeds into the year 2 module Applied Econometrics.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module you will learn about marketing communications from both theoretical and managerial perspectives. The subject of communication is a key element of marketing and considered by many to be the most important element. The study of how to integrate the various communication mix tools is central to an understanding of marketing processes. You will examine the role of Integrated Marketing Communications, looking at why certain communication methods are appropriate for the target audience and the influence it has on buyer behaviour.
Year 2
In your second year you will study:
- 3 compulsory modules in semester 1
- 2 compulsory modules and 1 optional module in semester 2
You can find out which modules are available in each semester on the Course Specifications.
Optional modules will run if they receive enough interest. It is not guaranteed that all modules will run every year.
Modules
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
The digital revolution has changed what marketing looks like. Much of marketing is now done online or on mobile and handheld devices. This module provides a broad understanding of digital marketing and will focus on understanding, evaluating and developing digital marketing strategy and tactics. You will study how you can use different digital marketing tools and channels to market products and services. We will cover:
- Website marketing and usability
- Search engine optimisation
- Display and search advertising
- Online PR and blogging
- Introduction to social media
- Content, email marketing and mobile marketing
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module you will develop your problem-solving skills through the medium of programming. You will learn the skill of decomposition, which shows how to break down problems into smaller parts. Explore how to write algorithms to support the development of planning the steps needed to complete the work, while planning how to deliver the project will help you to develop time management. These skills are all transferable to other problem-solving scenarios. As a vehicle for this skill development you will devise, plan and code a project.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module we will introduce you to consumer behaviour theories and how this relates to consumer and organisational buyer behaviour. You will investigate how cultural and sociological shifts affect consumers and markets and how we can use these insights to inform future strategy. You will learn how to identify these opportunities and translate them through to creative solutions to satisfy future needs in line with industry practice.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
Organisations need to understand how and why data is acquired, and have the ability to collect, analyse and interpret it. On this module you will learn about quantitative and qualitative research methods and how to use them to your work. We will help you develop skills in data collection, analysis and reporting your findings. You will also develop your project planning and management skills as a way to manage the research process.
Credits: 20
Optional module
Enhance your future employability by experiencing the workplace. We have designed this module to help you develop your skills, knowledge and understanding in different areas related to your career. You will engage with issues such as:
- Career decision making
- The recruitment cycle
- Applying for jobs
- Interviewing
As part of this module you will embark on a work placement or business project in a group, or individually.
Credits: 20
Optional module
This module aims to develop you into a confident, enterprising and creative graduate who will be able to cope with the ever changing business environment, recognise opportunities and to take responsible and measured risks. This is a very practical module. Starting with an initial idea, you will explore and assess a business opportunity and present a feasible business concept. Working alone or in groups, you will develop skills in collecting, analysing and organising ideas and information.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module we will introduce you to business information systems and provide an overview of their use. You will learn about the different types of business software and information systems, considering how businesses use them. The module brings together ideas that have been introduced in previous modules, and shows how the flow of information across a business is fundamental to its success.
Year 3
In your third year you will study:
- A compulsory Research Investigation module across semesters 1 and 2
- 2 compulsory modules in semester 1
- 1 compulsory module and 1 optional module in semester 2
You can find out which modules are available in each semester on the Course Specifications.
Optional modules will run if they receive enough interest. It is not guaranteed that all modules will run every year.
Optional Placement Year
As with all of our Business courses, you have the option to go on a placement year between years 2 and 3 of your degree. If you choose not to do a full placement year, you can do a shorter placement as part of a module in Year 2. This module is called Career Development and Employability. You can also choose to study abroad for a semester at one of our partner universities.
Modules
Credits: 40
Compulsory module
This module is your chance to plan and conduct a piece of independent research. You will be able to choose from the following projects:
- Traditional dissertation: Plan and conduct a piece of independent research. Present your findings in a writing.
- Business Research Project: Complete a small scale piece of individual research work.
- Consultancy Project: Work with industry professionals and investigate a business project and produce a research based report.
- Business creation project: Develop a full business proposal and plan. Use primary and secondary research to support your work.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
The module will help to prepare you for your future career goals. You will evaluate your current skills and produce a professional curriculum vitae, learning more about how to prepare for interviews and the application process. You will also research the careers market within your chosen field at a national and international level. By the end of the module you will have a strong exit portfolio to offer a potential employer.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
Social media is both exciting and terrifying for marketers. The world of constant connectivity has created new, game changing opportunities. This module will give you a broad understanding of social media marketing, content marketing and the essentials of branding. You will explore:
- Different social media platforms,
- Social media audits,
- How to create persuasive and engaging content
- How to build strong brands
- How to measure social media
- Content marketing and branding success
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module you will learn how to manage customer relationships strategically using Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems, as well as key concepts of web analytics in digital marketing. This module will strengthen your knowledge and understanding of the digital marketing landscape. In particular you will focus on using technology to establish, maintain and develop customer relationships and understand how they behave online.
Credits: 20
Optional module
On this module you will investigate several issues in the rapidly changing information technology (IT) environment. We will help you understand the importance of technology in the development of business organisations, industrial sectors, and national economies. This module has a very practical focus and you will use case studies and examples from different industries. You will explore important applications of IT in business, including:
- E-Commerce
- Managing Knowledge
- Enterprise Applications
- Business Analytics
- Internet of Things
- FinTech
- IT Security Management and IT Governance.
Credits: 20
Optional module
On this module you will gain a detailed knowledge of marketing theory and operations at an international level. An understanding of international marketing is particularly important when considering contemporary management issues, such as cultural diversity and strategic decision making. You will develop your understanding of the international context of marketing and particular issues that affect marketing decision making and planning at this level. We will introduce you to the complexities of international marketing practice by analysing product development, branding and market entry strategies in different international contexts.
Teaching and assessment
Teaching and learning
All of your modules will be delivered using a variety of different teaching sessions. This includes:
- Lectures
- Seminars
- Guest speakers
- Workshops
- Events
Each module has 3.5 hours of contact time a week. Lecturers also offer 2 hours of dedicated time a week, where students can have 1-1 time, this can be booked through out tutorial booking system.
Each student will have an allocated academic tutor, who will have regular individual tutorial sessions to support you with your learning.
You will also have opportunities to gain work experience through modules which take your learning beyond the classroom and into the city. Recent live projects have been Brew York, The Grand, Grantley Hall, Castle Howard, York Dungeons, Living North and others.
Our teaching draws on both our research and professional experience. This means your learning is informed by the most current thinking in the subject area. You can find out more about our research and backgrounds by visiting our staff pages.
Assessment
We use a wide variety of assessment types, which help you to develop skills relevant to the workplace. This includes:
- Written assignments
- Individual and group presentations
- Exams
- Practical activities
- Portfolios
You will receive feedback on your work throughout each module. This will help you to improve your work for your graded assessments. We will advise you on developing your skills, useful areas for research and how to extend your business knowledge further.
Professional skills
We encourage you to extend your learning through Continuing Professional Development as you study. Our Success Lab provides extra events, short courses and opportunities to help you make the most of your degree. The academic and professional skills you develop through this will help to boost your employability when you graduate.
Career outcomes
Your future with a degree in Digital Marketing and Data Analytics
This course will prepare you for a career in marketing. You will develop technical skills as well as your knowledge of digital media. The skills you gain in strategic thinking, research and communication will open up a range of career options.
This degree could be the first step toward your career as a:
- Digital marketer
- Digital copywriter
- Market researcher
- Product manager
- Social media manager
- UX designer
Discover more career options on Prospects careers advice pages.
You could also progress onto a postgraduate degree and take your learning even further.
Postgraduate courses at York St John University
Whatever your ambitions, we can help you get there.
Our careers service, LaunchPad provides career support tailored to your ambitions. Through this service you can access:
- Employer events
- LinkedIn, CV and cover letter sessions
- Workshops on application writing and interview skills
- Work experience and volunteering opportunities
- Personalised career advice.
This support doesn't end when you graduate. You can access our expert career advice for the rest of your life. We will help you gain experience and confidence to succeed.
Entry requirements
Qualifications
Minimum entry requirements
104 UCAS Tariff points
3 GCSEs at grade C/4 (or equivalent) including English Language and Maths.
Calculate your UCAS Tariff points
2024 entry
For 2024 entry to this course, you will also need GCSE grade 4 or above in Mathematics.
International students
If you are an international student you will need to show that your qualifications match our entry requirements.
Information about international qualifications and entry requirements can be found on our International pages.
If English is not your first language you will need to show that you have English Language competence at IELTS level 6.0 (with no skill below 5.5) or equivalent.
This course is available with foundation year
If you do not yet meet the minimum requirements for entry straight onto this degree course, or feel you are not quite ready for the transition to Higher Education, this is a great option for you. Passing a foundation year guarantees you a place on this degree course the following academic year.
Mature Learners Entry Scheme
If you have been out of education for 3 years or more and have a grade C GCSE in English Language or equivalent, you are eligible for our entry scheme for mature learners. It's a scheme that recognises non-traditional entry qualifications and experience for entry onto this course. Information on how to apply can be found on our dedicated page.
Advanced entry
Considering transferring to join us in year 2 or 3 of our Business Courses? Please see our Advanced Entry page for information on the courses available and how to apply.
Terms and conditions
Our terms and conditions, policies and procedures contain important information about studying at York St John University. You can read them on our Admissions page.
Fees and funding
To study for a degree with us, you will need to pay tuition fees for your course. How much you pay depends on whether you live inside the UK, or internationally (outside the UK). Tuition fees may be subject to inflation in future years.
UK 2024 entry
The tuition fee for 2024 entry onto this course is £9,250 per year for full time study.
This price applies to all UK, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man students.
You can find out more about funding your degree by visiting our funding opportunities page.
Placement year funding
If you choose to take a placement year, and your course offers it, you can apply for the Tuition Fee and Maintenance Loan for your placement year. How much you are awarded is based on the type of placement being undertaken and whether it is a paid or unpaid placement. The tuition fee for your placement year will be reduced.
Tuition fees
UK 2024 entry £9,250 per year full time
International 2024 entry £11,500 per year full time
International 2024 entry
The tuition fee for 2024 entry to this course is £11,500 per year for full time study.
This price applies to all students living outside the UK.
Due to immigration laws, if you are an international student on a Student Visa, you must study full time. For more information about visa requirements and short-term study visas, please visit the International Visa and Immigration pages.
Find out more about funding your degree.
Additional costs and financial support
There may also be some additional costs to take into account throughout your studies, including the cost of accommodation.
Course-related costs
While studying for your degree, there may be additional costs related to your course. This may include a DBS check, purchasing personal equipment and stationery, books and optional field trips.
Study Abroad
For more information on tuition fee reductions and additional costs for studying abroad, please visit our study abroad pages.
Accommodation and living costs
For detailed information on accommodation and living costs, visit our Accommodation pages.
Financial help and support
Our Funding Advice team are here to help you with your finances throughout your degree. They offer a personal service that can help you with funding your studies and budgeting for living expenses.
For advice on everything from applying for scholarships to finding additional financial support email fundingadvice@yorksj.ac.uk.
Alex Digital Marketing and Data Analytics
The course has really given me a broad understanding of marketing and data analytics which I feel will be very beneficial going into the professional workplace. The content covered through modules gives you the best of both worlds - you get a real insight into the front-end aspects of marketing whilst developing back-end technical skills such as programming, and analysis. Throughout my time at York St John my lecturers and tutors have been very supportive and always go the extra mile whenever I approach them. The University has also really helped with employability skills - aspects such as CV writing, interviewing, and how to stand out in applications.
Tom Digital Marketing and Data Analytics
During the Social Media, Content and Branding module, the module leader was fantastic, his passion and ability to relate to his students was highly motivating. He went above and beyond to create an engaging and valuable experience, drafting in industry experts and on trips. Not only did this help us practically, but it also improved relationships amongst the seminar group which brought us all close together.