Aston University

Established in 1966, Aston University in Birmingham has developed a distinguished reputation for excellence in education, particularly in the fields of business, engineering, and health sciences. Known for its strong emphasis on employability and practical learning, Aston University has consistently ranked among the top universities in the UK for graduate employability and student satisfaction.

In a forward-thinking initiative to enhance its curriculum, Aston University partnered with the Digital Marketing Institute (DMI) in 2023. This collaboration aimed to integrate cutting-edge digital marketing education into their business programs, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of the modern workforce.

As a leading institution recognised for its innovative approach and responsiveness to industry trends, Aston University was a perfect fit for the DMI  University Partnership Program. This partnership signifies a commitment to providing students with industry-validated certifications and practical skills, preparing them for successful careers in digital marketing and beyond.

Aston University’s strategic partnership with the Digital Marketing Institute is part of its broader mission to continuously adapt and evolve its educational offerings, ensuring that students are not only academically proficient but also ready to excel in their professional endeavours.

In the UK, digital skills have become increasingly crucial for the modern workforce. According to the UK Government's "No Longer Optional: Employer Demand for Digital Skills" report, 82% of job openings now require digital skills. According to Oxford, two-thirds (66%) of large UK businesses said they struggle to recruit employees with the skills they need. This presents a substantial challenge for educational institutions aiming to prepare graduates for the current job market.

Aston University realized that partnering with DMI would enable them to bridge the digital skills gap more effectively, ensuring that their graduates are well-equipped for a future shaped by digital progress.

After an extensive and collaborative pre-planning, application, mapping, and validation procedure, and recognising the urgency to bridge this digital skills gap, Aston University achieved the status of a 'DMI Accredited Partner.' This collaboration aims to equip graduates with the digital competencies required to thrive in a technology-driven job market.

Through this partnership, Aston University is not only addressing the digital skills gap but also ensuring that their graduates are among the most competitive in the job market. By integrating industry-validated certifications and practical digital marketing skills into their programs, Aston University reaffirms its commitment to providing top-tier education that aligns with the evolving needs of the modern workforce.

• Faculty and students at Aston University gained access to ‘DMI Power Membership’ with articles and case studies from the world’s leading brands, and a range of other content including short courses, videos, webinars, tools, templates, and podcasts from some of the foremost subject matter experts in digital marketing.
  These resources are frequently updated to ensure that Aston are up-to-date with trends and content at all times.

• Aston University expanded its continuing education portfolio with DMI to address the industry skill gaps and its growing demands.