Marketing

The Bachelor of Commerce in Marketing at the University of Cape Town is a comprehensive undergraduate programme designed to equip students with a solid foundation in the core principles and practices of marketing within a dynamic and competitive global environment. This curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, enabling graduates to understand consumer behavior, analyze market trends, develop effective marketing strategies, and employ innovative digital tools to reach target audiences. Students will explore a diverse range of topics including brand management, advertising, market research, sales management, and strategic planning, all within the context of South Africa's vibrant economy and diverse cultural landscape. The programme emphasizes critical thinking, ethical considerations, and sustainable marketing practices to prepare students for leadership roles in various sectors such as retail, media, technology, and services. Through a blend of lectures, case studies, group projects, and industry internships, students gain real-world experience and build valuable networks with industry professionals. The University of Cape Town's strong focus on research excellence and its commitment to social impact ensure that graduates are not only prepared for immediate employment but are also equipped to contribute to the development of responsible and innovative marketing solutions. The programme also provides pathways for postgraduate specialization, fostering lifelong learning and career advancement. By choosing the Bachelor of Commerce in Marketing at UCT, students embark on a transformative educational journey that combines academic rigour with practical relevance, empowering them to excel in the fast-evolving marketing landscape both locally and internationally.

First Year Core Modules

• ACC1006F Financial Accounting
• BUS1036F Evidence-based Management
• ECO1010F Microeconomics
• INF1002F Information Systems I
• MAM1010F Mathematics 1010
• ACC1012S Business Accounting OR
• ACC2011S Financial Reporting I
• ECO1011S Macroeconomics
• MAM1012S Mathematics 1012
• STA1000S Introductory Statistics 

Second Year Core Modules

• BUS2010F/S Marketing I
• ECO2003F Microeconomics II
• FTX2020F Business Finance OR
• FTX2024S Corporate Financial Management
• STA2020F/S Applied Statistics
• CML1004S Business Law I
• ECO2007S Co-operation and Competition
• ECO2004S Macroeconomics II
• PHI2043S Business Ethics

Third Year Core Modules

• BUS3039F People Management
• BUS3041F Marketing IIA
• ECO3020F Advanced Macro & Microeconomics
• STA3022F Research and Survey Statistics
• BUS3008W Research in Marketing
• BUS2033F/S Professional Communication
• BUS3038S Introduction to Project Management OR
• An approved 3000 level course
• BUS3043S Marketing IIB

Plus 1 course from:

• ECO3009F Natural Resource Economics
• ECO3016F History of Economic Thought
• 18 7 ECO3021S Quantitative Methods in Economics
• ECO3022S Advanced Labour Economics
• ECO3023S Public Sector Economics
• ECO3024F International Trade & Finance
• ECO3025S Applied International Trade Bargaining

Fourth Year Core Modules

• BUS4026W Marketing III
• BUS4050W Strategic Thinking
• BUS4052H Marketing Research Project
• BUS4058F Strategic Marketing

• Certified copies of official academic transcripts in ENGLISH (full transcripts for each tertiary institution attended)
• Certified copies of degree certificates in ENGLISH (for each tertiary institution attended where applicable)

International applicants for whom English is a second language are required to submit one of the following:

• a recent score (obtained within 3 - 5 years before application for admission) of at least 570 (paper-based test) or 230 (computer-based test) on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
• a recent overall band score of 7.0 (with no individual element of the test scoring below 6.0) on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
• or, noting that this may only be written at certain designated venues within South Africa, a score of at least 65% on the university's Placement Test in English for Educational Purposes (PTEEP).

The University of Cape Town offers various financing options for students enrolled in its programmes, including the Marketing degree. Students can explore multiple funding sources to support their studies, such as government bursaries, university scholarships, external sponsorships, and student loans. The university maintains a comprehensive bursary scheme accessible to both South African and international students based on merit, financial need, or specific criteria related to the applicant's background or field of study. These bursaries aim to alleviate financial burdens and enable students to focus on their academic and professional development.

Additionally, the university collaborates with government departments and private organizations to provide bursaries and scholarships specifically targeted at students pursuing business, marketing, and management disciplines. International students are encouraged to seek funding through their home country programs or international scholarship initiatives, some of which are recognized by the University of Cape Town. The university also offers work-study opportunities, allowing students to earn income while gaining practical experience related to their field of study, which can offset part of their tuition fees and living expenses.

Students are advised to apply early for financial aid and ensure they meet all the eligibility criteria, which often include academic performance, financial need, and documentation requirements. The university’s Financial Aid Office provides guidance and support throughout the application process. Besides external funding, students can also consider student loans, both through government schemes and private lenders, to finance their education at UCT. All financial aid options are designed to make higher education accessible and affordable for students from diverse backgrounds, fostering an inclusive academic environment.

Prospective students are encouraged to review the specific funding opportunities available for their programme of interest on the university’s official website and to contact the university’s financial services for personalized advice. Securing adequate financing is an essential step in the student journey, and UCT is committed to supporting its students through transparent procedures and diverse funding options.

The University of Cape Town offers a comprehensive Bachelor's degree in Marketing designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the dynamic field of marketing. The program provides a solid foundation in core marketing principles, including consumer behavior, market research, advertising, branding, digital marketing, and strategic marketing management. Students have the opportunity to learn through a combination of theoretical coursework and practical applications, such as case studies, projects, and internships, preparing them for real-world challenges in various industries.

Throughout the program, students are encouraged to develop critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and effective communication skills, which are vital for successful marketing professionals. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of ethical marketing practices and sustainability, reflecting global trends and challenges in the business environment. Additionally, students will gain insights into emerging technologies and digital platforms that are reshaping the marketing landscape, ensuring they remain competitive and adaptable in their careers.

The University of Cape Town's marketing program also offers specializations and elective courses that allow students to tailor their studies based on personal interests and career goals. These include digital analytics, social media marketing, consumer insights, and international marketing. The program is supported by faculty members who are experts in their fields, offering mentorship and guidance throughout the student’s academic journey.

Furthermore, the university maintains strong industry connections, facilitating internship placements and networking opportunities that enhance students’ employability after graduation. Graduates of the marketing program typically pursue careers in brand management, advertising, digital marketing, market research, public relations, and sales across diverse sectors such as retail, finance, consulting, and technology. The program’s goal is to produce innovative and strategic marketing professionals capable of contributing effectively to the growth and success of organizations locally and globally.