CIM Level 4 (RQF) Certificate in Professional and Digital Marketing

Course overview

The CIM (Chartered Institute of Marketing) qualifications have been developed to support individuals currently working in a marketing role.  The Level 4 Certificate in Professional and Digital Marketing (SCQF Level 7), offered by the college, is designed for marketers who wish to gain knowledge and skills to succeed and progress within a career in marketing.

Completing the Level 4 Certificate in Professional and Digital Marketing (SCQF Level 7) will equip you with the knowledge, skills, and understanding to support decision-making within the workplace. This qualification builds on your tactical marketing skills, enabling you to perform professionally at an operational level within your marketing department. With digital transformation and innovation changing the marketing landscape, it’s time for you to invest in yourself and your career.

Whether you are looking to enter the marketing world, change jobs, or perhaps get promoted at your current organisation, a CIM qualification will help your CV to stand out from the crowd. 

Hays marketing leader report 2019 states that “35% of market leaders have a CIM qualification” and according to a recent CIM alumni survey, “60% of CIM graduates are more respected at work or given more responsibility”. By investing in the skills you need, you'll show employers that you're a forward-thinking, motivated marketer who's up-to-date with the latest developments in this fast-changing field. For more information on the benefits of CIM qualifications, visit the CIM website. 

CIM exam and registration fees are paid directly by students to CIM. For up-to-date information on fees, please visit the CIM website.

We're pleased to offer the flexibility of online classes so you can study from home or your chosen location via Microsoft Teams. The course is delivered every week through live-taught virtual classes, providing ample opportunities to discuss the marketing materials and network with professional marketing colleagues. Your learning in the virtual classroom is supported with resources and activities on our Virtual Learning Platform (VLE) - Moodle, which can be accessed at any time.   

The units you will study are:

• Marketing Impact (20 credits)
• Planning Integrated Campaigns (10 credits)
• Content Marketing (10 credits)
• Social Media Marketing (10 credits)

How the course is assessed

• The assessment methodology for all four modules is on-screen, multiple-choice testing. (45-70 questions, depending on the module). All assessments are employer-driven, practitioner-based, relevant, and appropriate for business needs.
• Assessment availability is over 6 on-demand windows (results issued after each on-demand window closes).

Number of days per week

• One evening per week, online via Microsoft Teams, starting Tuesday 10 March 2026
• 5 PM to 7.30 PM

Entry requirements

• You are currently working in a marketing role
• You have one of the following qualifications
  • IM Introductory Certificate in Marketing (Level Two or Three)
  • An NVQ or SVQ Level 3 (equivalent to NGF Level 3)
  • An NVQ or SVQ Level 4 in any other subject (UK equivalent to NGF Level 4 and above)
  • International Baccalaureate (equivalent to NQF Level 3 and above) or a pass of the entry test onto Level 4. If English is not your first language, you`ll also need to provide evidence of at least IELTS 6.5 or Trinity ISE III or Trinity ISE IV

Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements

• You will be asked to attend an online interview with the course tutor.  This interview process is designed to ensure that you have selected the correct course to meet your needs and career aspirations.  
• If you would like to know more about CIM qualifications at the college or discuss bespoke training options, please contact our lead CIM tutor, Joanne Mitchell, via email joanne.mitchell@edinburghcollege.ac.uk.

English Proficiency Requirements

Career options

• A variety of marketing roles within a range of organisations or self-employment.