Delivered by Winchester School of Art
MA Creative Marketing and Branding
Digital Campaigns
|
Mode: Online, part-time | Duration: 2 years | Start in: May '26 |
Create digital-first experiences that stop the scroll
Today’s digital landscape moves fast. To stand out and convert audiences, you need more than creativity. You need marketing knowledge that turns engagement into results.
This course helps you balance both. Learn to design, deliver and optimise high performing digital campaigns. Understand platforms, audience behaviour and analytics. Build ethical, effective digital brands and prove ROI.
Why choose this course?
Create with digital tools
Blend creativity and technology to build campaigns that captivate and perform.
Design campaigns that deliver
Turn ideas into powerful digital experiences that drive results.
Lead the future of digital creativity
Shape tomorrow’s digital stories and brand experiences.
You'll study the following modules:
- Principles of Creative Marketing and Branding (15 credits)
- Next-Generation Consumer Trends and Insights (15 credits)
- Marketing Strategy in a Changing World (15 credits)
- Brand Creation and Experience (15 credits)
- Engaging Audiences: Strategy and Story (15 credits)
- Analytics in Action: Creative Campaign Strategy (15 credits)
- Research Toolkit: Preparation for Final Project (15 credits)
- Vision to Reality: Final Project (45 credits)
And the following pathway modules:
- Digital First: Marketing in the Age of Technology (15 credits)
- The Digital Playbook: Campaigns That Perform (15 credits)
About Marketing and Branding at the University of Southampton
- Study with a global top 100 institution: We're a Russell Group member recognised for world-class research and academic excellence.
- Join Winchester School of Art: Study with a renowned centre for creativity within the University of Southampton, with over 150 years of art, design, and innovation heritage.
- Taught by industry-connected academics: You’ll gain insights from expert faculty with both academic and professional marketing experience.
Get your course brochure
Complete the form to receive your brochure with details on modules, fees, and careers.
Entry requirements
Standard entry requirements
To join the course, you’ll need:
- a minimum of a 2:2 class degree in any subject, equivalent to a UK bachelor’s degree
Non-standard entry requirements
If you don’t meet the standard academic requirements, don’t worry. We review applications on a case-by-case basis and will assess whether your background and experience are suitable for this course.
Performance pathway
If you don’t meet the criteria above, you may be eligible for our performance pathway. On this pathway, you'll take the first 15-credit module. Successful completion of this module provides you with an entry route to the full master’s degree.
For this entry route, you’ll need:
- 3 years' relevant experience plus relevant professional qualifications; or
- a minimum of 5 years' employment in a professional role (this does not need to be in a relevant field)
For guidance on your eligibility, please contact our adviser team.
Please note, if you're on the performance pathway, you won’t be eligible for support from Student Finance for the first module. You’ll need to pay the registration fee and the cost of the first module yourself. Once you successfully complete the first module, you can apply for Student Finance to cover the rest of the course, subject to eligibility and Student Finance’s terms and conditions.
Please also note that if you access the course via the performance pathway entry route you'll need to take two short study breaks during your studies, bringing the total length to 2 years and 4 months.
What you'll need to provide
Here’s what we’ll ask you to provide for both standard and non-standard entry routes:
- a detailed CV: Highlight your relevant professional and personal experiences
- a professional reference letter: A trusted referee should explain why you’re a strong candidate for this course
- a personal statement (300-500 words): Tell us about your interest in the course, how it aligns with your career goals, and how your experience so far has prepared you for success at master’s level
In your personal statement, highlight examples that demonstrate your abilities in:
- time management
- organisation
- communication
- teamwork
- personal responsibility
- critical thinking
- problem-solving
Meet the Programme Leader
Juliet Tomlinson, Programme Leader, MA Creative Marketing and Branding
Juliet is a Senior Teaching Fellow at Winchester School of Art. She brings over 20 years’ experience in offshore financial services, working with high-net-worth clients, and has run her own business in product and business development.
Juliet holds a master’s in marketing management and has worked with start-ups in the e-commerce fashion sector. Since 2011, she has combined lecturing in marketing and business with consultancy for small and start-up businesses.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a background in marketing or branding?
Not necessarily. The course is designed to support learners from a variety of academic and professional backgrounds, while still offering depth for those with existing experience.
Are there different study pathways or specialisations?
Yes. The course offers flexible pathways that allow you to tailor your learning towards your interests and career goals:
- MA Creative Marketing and Branding – Develop a strong foundation in brand strategy and storytelling, learning how creativity, data, and technology combine to build impactful brand identities.
- MA Creative Marketing and Branding (Digital Campaigns) – Focus on creating data-driven digital campaigns, using the latest tools and platforms to reach audiences, optimise performance, and measure impact.
- MA Creative Marketing and Branding (Global Advertising) – Explore international campaign creation, blending cultural insight with creative strategy to deliver impactful, globally relevant brand communications.
What support will be available to me as an online student?
From your first enquiry through to graduation, support is built into every stage of your journey.
Before you begin, enrolment advisors can guide you through the application process. Once you’re enrolled, you’ll have access to a dedicated student support team who can provide non-academic guidance.
You’ll also benefit from tutor feedback, peer interaction, and access to wider university services designed to support your academic and professional development.
Will my degree be recognised internationally?
Yes. An online master’s degree from the University of Southampton is internationally recognised and respected for its academic quality and research-led teaching.
As a member of the Russell Group, the University has a strong global reputation, helping graduates stand out in competitive marketing and branding roles worldwide.
Will my degree certificate say that I studied online?
No. Your degree certificate will not specify the mode of study.
It will be the same qualification awarded to on-campus students at the University of Southampton, reflecting the same academic standards and level of achievement.
How will I be taught on this online course?
The MA Creative Marketing and Branding is delivered through an intuitive virtual learning environment. It brings together a range of content, including video lectures, interactive exercises, and curated reading materials.
You’ll explore contemporary branding and marketing concepts through applied learning, with opportunities to participate in discussions, share ideas, and build your creative portfolio. Active engagement is encouraged to help you develop both strategic thinking and practical skills.
Want full course details?
Download brochure