Commerce (Marketing Management)

Programmes in Commerce (Marketing Management) at the University of Otago are designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices that drive successful marketing strategies in today's dynamic business environment. This degree combines a solid foundation in core business disciplines such as accounting, economics, and management with specialized courses that focus on marketing theory, consumer behavior, digital marketing, branding, market research, and strategic planning. Throughout the programme, students develop the analytical, creative, and interpersonal skills necessary to design and implement effective marketing campaigns across a variety of industries and cultural contexts. Emphasizing both academic theory and practical application, the programme offers opportunities for real-world learning through internships, industry projects, and case studies, enabling students to build valuable professional networks and gain insights into current market trends. The curriculum is regularly updated to align with emerging digital technologies and changing consumer preferences, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the competitive marketing landscape. Students are encouraged to think critically, innovate, and adapt strategies to meet diverse client needs and business objectives. The programme also fosters strong ethical awareness and sustainable practices within marketing, reflecting the university’s commitment to responsible business. Graduates of the Bachelor of Commerce in Marketing Management can pursue careers in brand management, digital marketing, sales, market research, advertising, and business development. They are also well-equipped for postgraduate study or entrepreneurial ventures. With a diverse and inclusive academic community, state-of-the-art facilities, and experienced faculty members, the University of Otago provides a supportive environment for students to thrive academically and professionally.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 15772 Year (EEA)
• EUR 3191 Year (National)

International: 24,530NZ$. National:4,963.00NZ$

• English

Course Content

Marketing is a major in the Bachelor of Commerce, a three year programme.

100 Level – You’ll learn the principles of marketing, including the marketing management process, the four ‘P’s’, consumer behaviour and the information used in marketing.

200 Level – You’ll revisit basic marketing principles in more detail and be given the opportunity to develop more effective communication skills. You’ll also be introduced to some specialised topics such as Integrated marketing, sports marketing and product and brand management.

Note: Within the BCom there are certain papers which you are required to take – some as part of your Marketing major, others as part of the overall BCom requirements, known as core papers. Core papers do not form a foundation year, but must be completed before entering 300 Level BCom papers. BSNS 103 is most relevant for marketing students and looks at the other side of marketing management to understand how people make sense of consumption and the role they play in it.

300 Level – You’ll get the opportunity to integrate previous study into the ‘big picture’, as well as gaining deeper insights into more specialised topics such as international marketing, strategy, product development and societal issues in marketing. Details of first year papers are in the Prospectus. Details of papers at higher levels are in the Guide to Enrolment.

Teaching style

As well as lectures and smaller group tutorials, Marketing courses are very practical, incorporating case studies, presentations, group work and regular guest speakers. At 300 and 400 levels, you even get to work with businesses on actual marketing problems. Marketing at Otago helps you develop transferable skills that are directly relevant to many other careers. For example, case studies call for strong analytical skills and group projects for organisational, negotiation and managerial skills. Many businesses say they like Otago Marketing graduates because they have a practical approach and can ‘hit the ground running’.

Double major/degree options

You can link Marketing with a wide range of other subjects by incorporating a second major into your BCom, or by completing a double degree. Here are a few examples of how you plan for a career by including other subjects. Corporate marketers may find finance, accounting, management, and economics combine well. International marketers might consider a foreign language, and behavioural marketers may consider psychology. Food marketers often include food science and nutrition papers. Adding design papers opens up possibilities in advertising. Linking mathematics and statistics is useful for a career in research or marketing analysis

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6 CAE score : 58 TOEFL paper-based test score : 550 TOEFL iBT® test : 80

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

NCEA National Certificate in Educational Achievement

• 10 Level 2 credits in approved literacy (5 in reading, 5 in writing)

CIE Cambridge International Examinations

• Grade E or better in AS English

IB International Baccalaureate

• English at Higher or Standard level in Language A: literature, or Language A: language and literature; or at Higher level in Language B

NZUEBS New Zealand University Entrance Bursaries and Scholarships

• English mark of 46% or higher

IELTS International English Language Testing System

• 6.0 in academic module (with no individual band below 6.0)

TOEFL (paper based) Test of English as a Foreign Language

• 550 Test of Written English 4.5

TOEFL (internet based) Test of English as a Foreign Language

• 80 (with a Writing score of 20)

CPE Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English

• Minimum of 50

CAE Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English

• Minimum of 58

APIEL Advanced Placement International English Language Examination

• Grade 3 or higher

University of Otago Foundation Studies Ltd

• Successful completion of ‘English for Undergraduate Academic Purposes’ paper

Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic

• Overall score of 58 with no communicative skills score below 50

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Alumni Study Travel Fund

  Scholarships for students who are already attending the University of Reading.

• Amsterdam Merit Scholarships

  The University of Amsterdam aims to attract the world’s brightest students to its international classrooms. Outstanding students from outside the European Economic Area can apply for an Amsterdam Merit Scholarship.

The Bachelor of Commerce (Marketing Management) at the University of Otago is a comprehensive degree designed to equip students with essential skills and knowledge in the field of marketing. This program offers a blend of theoretical foundations and practical applications, preparing graduates to excel in diverse marketing roles across various industries. The curriculum covers core areas such as consumer behavior, marketing strategy, digital marketing, market research, brand management, and sales management. Students gain insights into how organizations develop and implement effective marketing strategies to meet consumer needs and achieve business objectives.

The program emphasizes experiential learning through case studies, group projects, and internships, encouraging students to apply their learning in real-world contexts. The University of Otago’s strong links with industry partners provide opportunities for networking, internships, and collaborations, enhancing students’ employability upon graduation. Additionally, the program incorporates the latest trends and technologies in marketing, including social media marketing, data analytics, and e-commerce, ensuring students remain relevant in a rapidly changing digital landscape.

Students in the Commerce (Marketing Management) program are encouraged to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, which are vital for successful careers in marketing and business management. The program is usually completed over three years of full-time study, with options for electives and specialization areas to tailor the degree to individual interests and career goals.

The Faculty of Business at Otago supports students with dedicated academic advisors, career services, and resources to help them succeed academically and professionally. Upon graduation, students are well-prepared for careers in marketing, advertising, sales, brand management, market research, and consultancy. Many alumni progress into managerial and leadership roles in prominent national and international companies. The program's reputation for academic excellence and practical learning experiences makes it a valuable choice for students aspiring to make a significant impact in the marketing industry.