Samuel - MSc Digital and Social Media Marketing

Samuel talks about his experience on the course and how it is preparing him for a future career in Digital Marketing
image of student Samuel
 

Why Plymouth

I chose to join the course because it closely aligned with my work experience as a Digital/Strategic Communications Officer. After being out of academia for several years, it was important for me to pursue a program that was not only relevant to my professional background but also familiar and offered strong future career prospects.
Plymouth itself is a compact and easily navigable city, making commuting convenient. As Britain’s Ocean City, rich in history, it boasts stunning scenic views. Additionally, Plymouth has a vibrant food scene, with plenty of great spots to explore for those who enjoy good cuisine.
Postgraduate students on the Hoe
 

Changing career path

I previously completed an undergraduate degree in Economics. However the roles I held after graduation were unrelated to my field of study. Seeking a shift in direction, I wanted a course that bridged the gap between my undergraduate degree and my work experience. I was looking for a program with a strong business focus that I was familiar with, while also aligning with the aspirations to specialise in marketing, so I pursued digital marketing as a pathways towards a PhD in marketing, with the ultimate goal of securing a lecturing position.
I took a nine-year break between my undergraduate degree and my conversion course, which made transitioning back to university life quite challenging. Adjusting to the demands of attending lectures and meeting assessment deadlines was initially difficult. Additionally, balancing my studies with my part-time role as a Student Ambassador added to the challenge, but it was also an exciting and rewarding experience. Despite these difficulties, the journey was immensely valuable, as it allowed me to develop essential skills such as public speaking, communication, and leadership—skills I had not previously honed.
Student in student ambassador shirt

I would highly recommend a conversion course, as it provides a strong foundation for students transitioning into a new field. At the ¶¶Òõ¶ÌÊÓƵ, the course is taught at an accessible level, with outstanding support from lecturers who make complex concepts easy to understand. Additionally, a conversion course serves as an excellent pathway to future career opportunities in a chosen field.

 
students working around laptop

Becoming a Digital Marketer

The moment I truly felt I was becoming a marketer happened during a campaign I was leading. I was in the middle of analysing engagement metrics for a digital strategy I had developed, and as I watched the numbers rise—higher reach, more interactions, and increased audience engagement—I realised the impact of my work. It was a defining moment because I saw first-hand how strategic communication could shape perceptions and drive real results. That was when I knew I wasn’t just executing tasks; I was actively influencing digital narratives and making a difference in the field.
From this course I have gained skills in Academic writing, public speaking, critical thinking, researching and communicating, which are extremely beneficial in preparing me for my future career.

My long-term career ambition is to complete a PhD and pursue a career as a lecturer and/or postdoctoral researcher. I aspire to contribute to academia by publishing world-leading research and driving meaningful solutions to real-world challenges

 

Opportunities available on the course

The ¶¶Òõ¶ÌÊÓƵ offers world-class facilities and strong industry collaborations, providing students with valuable hands-on experience. The support services available are excellent, ensuring a well-rounded academic journey.
While my course did not include formal placement opportunities, it offered internship and micro internship options. Although I chose not to participate to avoid potential conflicts with my studies, I highly recommend these opportunities to anyone seeking valuable work experience. They provide a great platform to apply classroom knowledge in a professional setting and enhance career prospects.
student working together

The most exciting part of the course is working with real-life client organisations as part of our assessments. Having the opportunity to apply the theories learned in class to real-world challenges was both engaging and rewarding. It was incredibly fulfilling to develop practical solutions to real business problems, bridging the gap between academic knowledge and professional application.

 
Careers and employability image for My Career page
Supported all the way
The level of support available at the ¶¶Òõ¶ÌÊÓƵ is exceptional. From academic guidance to career services, the resources provided truly enhance the student experience. Additionally, the practical nature of my course was a standout feature, equipping me with real-world skills and positioning me strongly for future career opportunities
I have felt highly supported during my time at the university. The Careers Service has been particularly beneficial, providing invaluable guidance with refining my CV, preparing for interviews, and navigating applications for unadvertised job opportunities. Their support has been immense and greatly contributed to my personal and professional development.
Initially, I was concerned that I might struggle with academic writing after being out of academia for so long. However, the university provided exceptional support to help me overcome this challenge. Resources such as the Writing Café, the Royal Literary Fellow, and personal tutor support played a crucial role in strengthening my academic writing skills and boosting my confidence.
 

I would recommend to anyone considering a Digital Marketing degree, especially at the ¶¶Òõ¶ÌÊÓƵ to go for it! The University offers world-class facilities and exceptional support before, during and after your studies. Additionally the career prospects in digital marketing are strong, making it a highly rewarding field with numerous opportunities for growth and innovation.