A total of 114 BU students have signed up for The Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) Introductory Certificate in Marketing programme, which is currently one of the single largest cohorts studying for this qualification in the UK.

The launch of the programme follows the award of Multi Award Pathway (MAP) status by CIM earlier in the year to three of Bournemouth University’s degree courses; BA (Hons) Marketing Communications, BA (Hons) Advertising and BSc (Hons) Marketing degrees.

The programme offers students the opportunity to achieve CIM’s professional qualification, the Introductory Certificate, during the current academic year. Successful students will receive their award in the summer of 2014.

The programme has already met with a favourable reaction from students.

“I’m really keen to get the CIM qualification, as it will enhance my CV and help me get a great placement next year,” said Ben Ridsdale, first year BA (Hons) Marketing Communications student.

Students are already updating their CVs to include their participation in the MAP study programme and give themselves an edge in seeking placement interviews.

The programme was launched by Graham Goode, senior lecturer at Bournemouth University with support from CIM’s network managers; Emma Neale and Christine Boswell-Munday.

Graham, a senior lecturer in marketing communications, said: “The strong take-up from BU Marketing and Advertising students demonstrates the benefits of additional practice-focussed learning, obtained from studying for recognised professional qualifications alongside what are good academic degree programmes.

“Students see this value-added opportunity as a first step in engagement with their discipline’s professional body, CIM, and a way to enhance their future employment and placement prospects”.

The programme will be evaluated during the coming year to determine what shape it should take for 2014/2015. The evaluation will assess the potential for additional study programmes on higher level CIM qualifications, where students now hold exemptions under the MAP award.