Hi there, I'm Luna.
I'm a bit like an AI, except instead of making pictures of people with 16 fingers, I can help you find the perfect course and uni.
Would you like some help in your search?
CONTENTS
- What's marketing?
- Marketing degree entry requirements
- Subjects needed to study marketing
- Best universities for marketing in the UK
- How to compare marketing courses
- How to compare marketing courses in Clearing
- What if you can’t find a marketing degree in Clearing?
What's marketing?
Marketing is the communication and selling of a product or service for business growth. On a marketing degree, you’ll explore advertising, how to add value to a product, how to communicate this to customers and how to satisfy those who consume your product or service.
Marketing degree entry requirements
The UCAS points to study a marketing degree range from 88 (CCD at A-level; MMM-DD at BTEC Level) to 144 points (A*AA at A-level; D*DD at BTEC level).
| Type | Minimum grades/points required (with Foundation Year) | Minimum grades/points required | Maximum grades/points required | Average grades/points required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UCAS Points | 32 | 88 | 144 | 112 |
| A-level | EE | CCD | A*AA | BBC |
| BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma | PP | MMM-DD | D*DD | DMM-D*D* |
| International Baccalaureate | 24 | 26 | 36 | 29 |
Subjects needed to study marketing
A-levels
Most universities won’t ask for any specific A-levels. Some may prefer you to have taken A-level maths and either accounting or finance. General studies is usually not counted towards your UCAS points total.
BTECs
Most universities won’t ask for a specific BTEC subject. Some may prefer you to have done a business-related subject.
GCSEs
You’ll need to have passed your GCSEs with at least a grade C/4 or higher. Some courses may ask for at least a B/6 in maths and/or a B/6 in English.
International Baccalaureate
You’ll need to have at least a 4 in Standard Level maths for many courses, with some asking for a minimum score of 5. Some universities will want you to have no subject below a grade of 5 at Standard Level and a 6 in Higher Level maths.
Alongside grades your personal statement will also determine whether you get accepted onto a course. A personal statement is your chance to communicate your passion for marketing. Admissions teams will want to see how you can contribute to university life too. They’ll look favourably on students who’ve been active members of clubs and societies at college/sixth form.
Best universities for marketing in the UK
Our sister site, the Complete University Guide, publishes university league tables every year ranking UK unis nationally and in 70+ subject areas. Check out the latest rankings to get an idea of the best UK unis for marketing.
How to compare marketing courses
Whatuni’s Find a Course tool will let you compare marketing courses. Enter ‘marketing’ into the search bar, click ‘search’ and browse the available courses.
Personalise the results with filters, based on what you find important. When you select a course, you’ll see the full course information, including course outline, module choices, entry requirements, fees and key course stats.
Once you’ve compiled a shortlist of courses, begin your research. Order each university’s prospectus to give you an overview of learning facilities, accommodation, social activities, support and much more.
Booking an open day will let you scope the campus, speak to current students and potential tutors. Open day events will give you an idea of what your student life may be like.
Reading student reviews will also offer an honest insight into what you can expect from student life. Simply enter the university and subject to see what students are saying.
How to compare marketing courses in Clearing
You’ll have another chance to apply for marketing courses when Clearing opens in early July. You’ll be able to see what marketing courses are available, shortlist any you’re interested in and compare them using Whatuni’s Clearing tool
You may find some universities lower their entry requirements for Clearing courses. Check these on the individual marketing course pages for each university on Whatuni.
Pre-register for Clearing in the meantime. You’ll receive regular advice leading up to Clearing, have access to Whatuni’s Clearing guide and be able to save and compare marketing courses once Clearing begins.
What if you can’t find a marketing degree in Clearing?
You’ll have several other options:
- Study a marketing foundation year: This is for students who don’t have the required qualifications to gain direct entry onto a bachelor’s degree. The first year is designed to equip you with the knowledge for degree-level study. Entry requirements are much lower, but note that the extra year will add time and further cost to your studies.
- Study a joint honours degree: A joint honours degree is where marketing makes up one half of the degree. Common subjects to be paired with marketing include accounting, business, management and public relations. Think carefully about your career aspirations before deciding.
- Study a foundation degree or HNC/HND: Foundation degrees, Higher National Certificates and Diplomas are vocational-based courses that are the equivalent to one (HNC) or two (HND and foundation) years of a bachelor’s degree. The entry requirements are much lower and they can either lead to further study or employment.
- Study a similar subject: Courses in accounting, business, finance, management and psychology will all cover aspects of marketing. Research the module choices and the degree outcomes thoroughly before applying.
- Take a gap year and resit your exams: If you have your heart set on a course but don’t get the grades you need, consider taking a year out and resitting your exams either in autumn or the following year. During the year you can study and gain relevant work experience to boost your university application.
