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Business and Marketing

Marketing HNC

Campus Sighthill Campus

Qualification SCQF Level 7

Study mode Full time

Start date Aug 2026

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Course overview

The HNC in Marketing (SCQF level 7) develops your knowledge and skills in marketing theory and practice, advertising and PR, and using digital and social media (including analytics and search engine optimisation).

This qualification covers areas such as

  • Introduction to Marketing
  • Marketing Research
  • Advertising and the Advertising Industry
  • PR; Marketing Planning
  • Social Media
  • Digital Marketing Communications of Website and Content Development, including analytics and SEO

The course combines theory and practical subjects, where you will apply your new knowledge and skills to create Advertising and Public Relations campaigns.

What you will learn

You will cover a selection of Marketing and Advertising units, including:

  • Marketing - An Introduction
  • Public Relations: Principles and Practice
  • Digital Marketing Communications: Content Development
  • Digital Marketing Communications: Website Tools and Techniques
  • Advertising: The Advertising Industry
  • Market Research Theory
  • Marketing Planning: An Introduction
  • Marketing Communications: Graded Unit 1

Meta Skills Developed:

  • Integrity
  • Adapting
  • Initiative
  • Communication
  • Collaboration
  • Curiosity
  • Critical thinking

How the course is assessed

Each subject will have different evidence requirements and assessment approaches.

Some examples are provided below on the methods of assessments

  • Open Book
  • Exam – Closed-book controlled
  • Project-based assessments

Number of days per week

  • 2 days per week on campus & 1 day per week self study.

Entry requirements

  • A minimum of 1 relevant Higher and 4 National 5s at C or above in relevant subjects.  Must include English/Communications.
  • or an NPA  or NQ qualification at level 6 in a relevant subject. Relevant Subjects Examples:
    • English
    • Maths
    • Business Management
    • Social Subjects (Written-based academic subjects).
  • Candidates will be assessed individually.

Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements

  • You will be required to attend group and individual interviews.
  • Skills check: This is to ensure you are on the right courses.
  • We will provide you with further information on the course during the interview.

English Proficiency Requirements

Minimum IELTS 5.5

Progression and Articulation Routes

Higher National qualifications also provide the knowledge and understanding required for related Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQs). For example, a Diploma in Digital Marketing

Successful learners could also progress to qualifications from a range of professional bodies in this area, such as:

  • Professional PR Certificate (CIPR)
  • Certificate and/or Diploma and/or Digital Diploma in Professional Marketing (CIM)
  • Diploma in Digital Marketing (CAM)
  • Institute of Direct and Digital Marketing (IDM) qualifications
  • Pathways

Career options

This course prepares learners for careers in a number of related sectors, such as

  • Marketing
  • Public Relations (PR)
  • Customer Service
  • Advertising.

Study Options

Campus Study mode Start date End date
Sighthill Campus Full time 24/08/26 11/06/27

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