Let’s face it, getting a master’s degree is pretty good. Getting it for free is better. Getting the degree; experience in four different businesses in Manchester; countless networking events; membership to the Chartered Institute of Marketing; a mentor from an authoritative position within a business in Manchester; and the phenomenal CV appeal from having taken part in the Manchester Masters programme, is absolutely outstanding.

The Programme

I speak from experience when I tell you that this scheme is worth its weight in gold. Now in my fourth and final placement, I believe that taking part in Manchester Masters has guided – perhaps defined – my career henceforth. The variety of industries I have worked in has given me a greater depth of experience than I could ever have taken from university.

I’ve been with an SEO agency, helping to design their website and write for their blog. I’ve worked for The Co-operative’s food marketing department, where I did marketing research, video editing and helped to compile a presentation based on analysis of video diaries kept by customers. I worked with an online casino, assisting their mobile marketing manager to promote the mobile version of the casino. And I’ve worked for Betfred, where I’m being treated like a data analyst, social media consultant, designer, developer, mobile marketer and just about everything else I can think of. I really do feel special at the moment.

On top of that, I’ve been to a swanky hotel in London for a conference (all expenses paid); I’ve stayed in a penthouse apartment in Gibraltar (all expenses paid); and it looks like I’m going to spend some time travelling around the UK to do my project for Betfred (…all expenses, very much paid). One of the other Masters spent a weekend in Edinburgh, and one of them went to France for a week! You really can’t top the experiences you get through this programme.

Application

Anyway, let’s get down to the nitty gritty. Applications. To apply, you need to fill out the Manchester Masters online application form. You also need to submit a YouTube video (looking for inspiration?). Once you’ve done these two things, it’s a waiting game. The organisers, judges, experts, etc. will all look at your application and video, to decide whether or not you’re good enough for selection. If you are, then you’re about to face the 2 most exhausting days you’ll face for a long time.

Selection

You’ll be tested; mentally and physically. You’ll have to think on your feet, work in teams, work alone, present, discuss and impress your way to victory. In an ‘apprentice style’ contest, 50 people will enter selection on the first day. 20 people will return for the second day. 10 will be chosen to take part in the course. However, when you come out with your 9 successful peers, you will all feel like you have well and truly earned your way onto this incredible degree. You’ll join the judges, the mentors and the tutors for a relaxed, well-deserved drink afterwards; savouring this life-changing moment for the rest of the night.

So what are you waiting for? Get thinking, whip up a storyboard for your video and get filming! Look at the application process and start thinking about your answers. Keep an eye on the YouTube channel for some inspiration if necessary. And check out the Facebook page for news, updates and info.

And if you really want to, take a look at my Manchester Masters application video from last year. It’s not one of the best, but it stood out enough to get their attention ;-)

Finally, please take a moment to share this post. The more people who are aware of this fantastic opportunity the better. You can post it to your Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn accounts using the buttons below.

Good luck!

Jamie