MSc Digital Marketing / Course details

Year of entry: 2025

Course unit details:
Integrated Marketing Communication in a Digital Environment

Course unit fact file
Unit code BMAN60222
Credit rating 15
Unit level FHEQ level 7 – master's degree or fourth year of an integrated master's degree
Teaching period(s) Semester 2
Available as a free choice unit? No

Overview

This module offers a focused exploration of Integrated Marketing Communications (IMC) within a digital context. It covers IMC theories, branding, and omnichannel strategies, with a particular emphasis on social media, influencers, and digital communication planning. The course guides students through communication mix strategies with a digital perspective, delving into the intricacies of online and offline channels.

Aims

1. Develop a deep understanding of how digital channels seamlessly integrate into marketing communication strategies.
2. Equip students with the skills to strategically plan and execute digital-centric Integrated Marketing Communications (IMC) campaigns.
3. Encourage critical thinking in evaluating the effectiveness of digital touchpoints within the IMC framework.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the course students should be able to:

1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the theoretical foundations in digital IMC.

2. Develop the following IMC-specific skills:

•    Acquire practical skills in crafting digital media plans with an emphasis on omnichannel strategies.

•    Develop the ability to formulate effective digital communication mix strategies, including social media and influencers.

3. Develop the following employability/ transferable skills:

•    Critical thinking and ethical decision-making in addressing digital marketing communication ethics.

•    Strategic planning, communicating and executing digital-centric IMC campaigns, fostering practical application in professional settings.•    Work effectively as part of a team.

Teaching and learning methods

Formal Contact Methods

Minimum Contact hours: 30 

Delivery format: Lectures

Intellectual skills

Critically evaluate authentic business scenarios applying integrated marketing communications theories to identify challenges and opportunities.

Analyse complex marketing communications problems, synthesise information from diverse sources, and develop well-supported arguments.

Assessment methods

Group Project which is presented via a group presentation (40%)

Individual coursework (60%)

 

Feedback methods

Written, verbally during class and via Blackboard.

Recommended reading

Pelsmacker, P. de, Geuens, M. and Bergh, J. van den. (2018). Marketing communications : a European perspective. Sixth edition. Harlow, England: Pearson.

Smith, P.R. and Zook, Ze. (2020) Marketing Communications: Integrating online and offline, customer engagement and digital technologies. 7th Edition, Kogan Page.

Chaffey, D. & Ellis-Chadwick, F. (2019). Digital Marketing: Strategy, Implementation & Practice, 7th Edition, Pearson.
 

 

Study hours

Scheduled activity hours
Lectures 26
Seminars 4
Independent study hours
Independent study 120

Teaching staff

Staff member Role
Zhiteng Feng Unit coordinator
Pietro Paolo Frigenti Unit coordinator

Additional notes

Informal Contact Method

Office Hours

Online Learning Activities (blogs, discussions, self-assessment questions)

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