Marketing Practice

The MSc in Marketing Practice is an award-winning, action-based learning programme that runs from September to July. It begins with a three-week Marketing Immersion on campus, followed by a 37-week paid professional placement with a host company. Students receive €530 gross per week during their placement.



The programme combines:



Six taught modules delivered in intensive blocks throughout the year

An applied project addressing real business challenges

On-site visits to companies recognised as global marketing leaders

During their placement, students gain hands-on experience in areas such as:



Digital marketing strategy and implementation

Market research and analysis

Event and trade show management

Advertising and promotional campaign development

Website management, SEO, and social media marketing

Database management and direct marketing

Strategic planning and market segmentation

The exact nature of the work depends on the host company and industry context, allowing students to specialise in areas like digital marketing, brand management, marketing analytics, or inside sales, or to take on a broader marketing role.



Placements are tailored to individual preferences where possible, with Galway and Dublin being the most popular locations. If a preferred location isn’t available, students are encouraged to explore exciting opportunities across Ireland, supported by a wide network of partner companies—from innovative start-ups to global multinationals.



The Marketing Discipline at University of Galway works closely with host companies to define meaningful, challenging roles that maximise student learning and employability.

Year 1 (90 Credits)

Required MK5145: Applied Marketing Project

Required MK5122: Inbound Marketing Strategy

Required MK5150: Website Strategy & Management

Required MK5149: Marketing Practice for Sustainable Value

Required MK586: Marketing Placement

Required MK5159: Customer Engagement and Analytics via Digital Platforms

Required MK5152: Research Insights for Marketing Decision Making

Required MK5151: Digital Sales & Marketing Alignment

Normally a high H2.2 degree (NFQ Level 8 or equivalent) with a demonstration of an aptitude in Marketing. Suitability for a place on the programme remains pending internal interview process. The programme is only available to EU students due to visa requirements.



Academic entry requirements standardised per country are available here. 



English Language Entry Requirements



For applicants whose first language is not English, an English language proficiency of IELTS score of 6.5 is required (with no less than 6.0 in any other band) or equivalent.

1 year full-time.

Next start date September 2026

Graduates of this programme are in high demand, thanks to its strong reputation and industry relevance. They go on to build successful marketing careers at regional, national, and global levels, working across a wide range of sectors—from tech and retail to FMCG, consulting, and public bodies.



Our graduates are employed by leading organisations such as Google, HubSpot, SAP, IBM, Salesforce, Oracle, LinkedIn, Meta (Facebook), Yahoo, L’Oréal, Glanbia, Tesco, IKEA, AIB, GlaxoSmithKline, Wayfair, Pathfinder, Smyths Toys, and Bord Bia.



In addition to these household names, many join dynamic and innovative organisations of all sizes, including high-growth start-ups and specialist consultancies. Most begin in graduate roles and rapidly progress to leadership and specialist positions, reflecting the programme’s emphasis on practical skills, strategic thinking, and real-world experience.



Graduates typically move into roles such as Digital Marketing Specialist, Brand Manager, Market Research Analyst, Content Strategist, Social Media Manager, CRM Executive, Product Marketing Manager, Performance Marketing Analyst, Sales Executive, and Business Development Manager. The skills developed also open doors to emerging roles in data-driven marketing, UX research, marketing automation, and sustainability-led branding strategies.