Strategic Marketing Communications Graduate Certificate
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
| 2025-01-01 | - |
| 2025-05-01 | - |
Program Overview
The Strategic Marketing Communications program is a two-year, graduate-level certificate designed for individuals looking to enter the dynamic and evolving field of marketing and communications. This program emphasizes the integration of various communication channels, including social media, to manage organizational images and messages effectively. It equips graduates with the knowledge and skills to work seamlessly within marketing, sales, advertising, and public relations areas.
Program Outline
Strategic Marketing Communications - Full-time - Graduate Certificate
Degree Overview
Overview:
The Strategic Marketing Communications program is a two-year, graduate-level certificate designed for individuals looking to enter the dynamic and evolving field of marketing and communications. This program emphasizes the integration of various communication channels, including social media, to manage organizational images and messages effectively. It equips graduates with the knowledge and skills to work seamlessly within marketing, sales, advertising, and public relations areas.
Objectives:
- Develop a comprehensive understanding of the strategic planning process.
- Master the production of professional collateral and digital content using industry-standard technology.
- Explore emerging social media platforms and their impact on communication strategies.
- Create an integrated marketing communications plan for a real-world client in the capstone project.
Program Description:
This program adopts an experiential and career-focused approach, prioritizing hands-on learning and industry engagement. It delves into the various roles graduates can pursue within the marketing and communications fields, emphasizing the strategic integration of diverse disciplines. Students actively participate in developing professional content using current technology and emerging social media platforms. The program culminates in a client-based capstone project, where students apply their acquired knowledge and skills to develop a comprehensive marketing communications plan.
Outline:
Program Duration:
2 years
Delivery Mode:
Full-time
Campus:
Kitchener – Downtown
Content:
The program comprises a comprehensive curriculum covering various aspects of marketing and communications, including:
- Strategic Planning: Develop effective marketing communication strategies aligned with organizational goals.
- Production of Professional Collateral and Digital Content: Learn to create high-quality marketing materials using industry-standard software and tools.
- Social Media Marketing: Understand the power of social media and leverage it to achieve organizational objectives.
- Consumer Engagement: Develop effective strategies to engage with target audiences and build strong relationships.
- Client-Based Capstone Project: Apply all acquired knowledge and skills to develop a comprehensive marketing communications plan for a real-world client.
Courses:
The program consists of a combination of required and elective courses, designed to provide a solid foundation in marketing and communications principles.
Assessment:
The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including:
- Presentations: Individuals and groups present their ideas and findings, enabling the development of communication and teamwork skills.
- Exams: Traditional examinations evaluate student knowledge and comprehension of course material.
- Capstone Project: The culminating project serves as a comprehensive assessment of student progress throughout the program.
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
The program employs a range of teaching methods to cater to diverse learning styles, including:
- Interactive Lectures: Engaging lectures introduce core concepts and spark lively discussions.
- Guest Speakers: Industry professionals share their expertise and provide real-world insights.
- Case Studies: Analyzing real-world scenarios fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Group Projects: Collaborative projects encourage teamwork and communication skills.
Unique Approaches:
- Laptop Initiative: All students receive a laptop included in program fees, facilitating access to current resources, interactive learning, and technological skill development.
- Client-Based Capstone Project: The real-world project provides an invaluable opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge and gain practical experience.
Careers:
Career Paths:
Graduates of this program are equipped to pursue diverse career paths within the marketing and communications fields, including:
- Marketing Manager
- Communications Specialist
- Public Relations Specialist
- Social Media Manager
- Content Marketing Specialist
- Brand Manager
- Advertising Account Executive
Career Opportunities:
The program prepares graduates for employment opportunities in various industries and sectors, including:
- Consumer Packaged Goods
- Technology
- Healthcare
- Financial Services
- Non-profit Organizations
- Government Agencies
Outcomes:
- Graduates demonstrate a strong understanding of marketing and communications principles.
- They possess the skills to create effective marketing campaigns and communicate effectively with target audiences.
- They are adept at using industry-standard technology and emerging social media platforms.
| Term | Canadian | International | |---|---|---| | Fall 2024 | $10404.72 | $11309.72 | | Winter 2025 | $8438.47 | $8813.47 | | Year Total | $18843.19 | $20123.19 |
