Marketing internships

Explore marketing internships and gain practical experience in digital marketing, brand management, SEO, and more with top UK companies 

What marketing internships are available in the UK?

Students and recent graduates can find opportunities in: 

• brand management 
• content creation 
• digital marketing 
• market research 
• search engine optimisation (SEO) 
• social media. 

Internships are available in major cities like London, Manchester, and Edinburgh, as well as in smaller towns and regional hubs.  

Companies of all sizes, from startups to multinational corporations, offer internships, providing valuable hands-on experience and exposure to the latest marketing trends and technologies. 

Some examples of marketing internships include: 

• Amazon - 12-month internship developing and implementing effective marketing strategies for Amazon businesses. 
• BMW Group - 12-month internships with exposure to various aspects of the business, including strategy, digital marketing, and communications for brands such as MINI and Bosch. 
• Cancer Research - a 12-week internship to help boost the progress of charitable campaigns. 
• Girls in Marketing - a three-day virtual course to learn from industry experts, enhance your marketing skills, and gain career advice. 
• P&G - a ten-week summer internship analysing product launches or developing digital marketing strategies for brands such as Head and Shoulders, Pampers, and Ariel. 
• PayPal - a 12-month internship supporting global marketing strategies, including campaign planning, digital marketing optimisation, and market research. 
• Rainbow Trust - internships of up to three months, with programmes in marketing, digital marketing, and PR and communications. 
• Samsung - offer 12-month placements in product management and marketing. Interns work on projects that directly impact how Samsung communicates with and engages its customers. 
• Siemens - 12-month placements as a marketing, recruitment marketing, or communications intern assisting with event logistics and crafting marketing materials to enhance Siemens' brand. 
• Sky - 12-month internships contributing to projects like developing new products/services, crafting ad campaigns, building customer relationships, presenting strategic insights, and promoting TV shows. 
• Tesco - 11-month internship in customer relationship management and marketing, including experience in brand strategy, general marketing, and customer loyalty programmes. 
• TikTok - a 12-week summer internship supporting marketing teams with events, social media content, and reporting. 

What do marketing internships involve?

Marketing internships are designed to provide hands-on experience. They typically span a variety of specialisations within marketing: 

• Digital - focus on using digital marketing channels, including social media, search engine optimisation (SEO), and pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, to promote products or services. 
• Content - centre around creating and distributing content, such as blog posts, articles, and social media posts, to engage potential customers and promote a brand or product. 
• Social media - tasks include managing a company's social media presence, creating and curating content, and engaging with followers. 
• Communications - focus on writing and editing marketing materials, such as press releases, website copy, and brochures. 
• Events - responsibilities include planning and executing events, such as product launches, conferences, and trade shows. 
• Public relations - interns gain experience in writing press releases and media advisories, pitching stories to journalists, and monitoring media coverage. 

For example, marketing interns at Müller gain hands-on experience in analysing data, supporting product launches, and building relationships with key stakeholders. Whether it's improving category performance, enhancing communications, or driving sales for branded and private label products, these internships offer valuable insights into the industry and the chance to contribute to Müller's success.

By taking on an internship, you're not just gaining experience, you're building a network of contacts, learning about different companies and industries, and positioning yourself for future success. 

For more information, see internships. 

How long do marketing internships last?

The duration of a marketing internship can vary, typically ranging from eight to 12 weeks. However, this can extend to three-six months or even a full year, depending on factors like the company, industry, internship type, and academic year. Year-round internships provide a longer, more immersive experience. 

How do I get virtual work experience in marketing?

In addition to traditional internships, big firms offer virtual work experience so you can gain practical insights and skills from the comfort of your own home.  

These online programmes provide access to industry experts, real-world projects, and interactive learning modules. By completing virtual work experience, you can enhance your CV, develop professional networks, and gain a competitive edge in the job market. 

Companies offering virtual marketing work experience include: 

• Direct Line Group - one hour sprint programme immersing participants into the role of a marketer. Core tasks involve analysing data insights about bikes and cycling to create an engaging advertisement for bike insurance. 
• Hachette - ten on-demand sessions that introduce you to concepts on reading the market and understanding what audiences want to be published. You'll cover different forms of media and the importance of being digital in the modern age. 
• Pfizer - with a duration of four to six hours, the Molecule to Market programme provides an overview of bringing a new medicine to market. 

Find out more about virtual work experience.

How and when do I apply?

While the application process for marketing internships varies, most require a CV and cover letter. These documents showcase your academic achievements, professional skills, and suitability for the internship position.

You should communicate your genuine passion for marketing and your understanding of the industry's current trends and challenges, for example, you could share specific examples of marketing campaigns or strategies that have impressed you and explain why.

Marketing internships are highly competitive, so start your application process early. Applications are typically accepted between September and December the year before the internship takes place.

Where can I find marketing internships?

To find marketing internships and work experience, start by exploring smaller businesses and non-profit organisations, which may be more open to speculative applications. Attending industry conferences, workshops, and webinars can also be valuable for networking with professionals and discovering hidden opportunities.  

Online platforms like LinkedIn are excellent for finding open positions and building your online presence. Optimise your LinkedIn profile to highlight your marketing expertise and relevant experiences. Providing examples of your work by creating a portfolio to showcase your skills and projects can help to boost your application. 

Don't forget to maintain a professional social media presence by sharing relevant content and engaging with industry professionals. Read our guidance on social media and job hunting. 

Finally, your university's career service can provide guidance, connect you with potential employers, and help you navigate the internship search process. Discover 5 ways to benefit from your institution's links. 

What are the entry requirements for marketing internships?

While most programmes target final-year students, some employers offer paid internships or placements to first-year students. 

Entry requirements for marketing internships vary and require a mix of hard and soft skills, but most seek candidates with a strong academic background and a genuine passion for marketing. Discover what skills employers want. 

Some internships may also require specific experience, such as proficiency in a particular software like Google Analytics, or a history with a particular marketing channel or social media platform. 

For example, Tesco's and BMW Group internships have an academic requirement of a 2:2 degree, while Cancer Research and Rainbow Trust's internships are open to school leavers. 

Be sure to review each job description for specific requirements. 

How and when do I apply?

While the application process for marketing internships varies, most require a CV and cover letter. These documents showcase your academic achievements, professional skills, and suitability for the internship position. See our example internship cover letter for detailed guidance. 

Tailor your applications by researching the company's culture and values. Emphasise skills directly applicable to marketing roles, such as: 

• content creation 
• data analysis  
• SEO 
• social media marketing. 

Prepare for interviews by practicing common marketing interview questions and being ready to discuss your projects and career goals. 

Marketing internships are highly competitive, so it's a good idea start your application process early. Applications are typically accepted between September and December the year before the internship takes place. 

Will I be paid?

Paid internships often offer hourly wages, allowing interns to fully immerse themselves in the experience without the added stress of balancing part-time work. Salaries typically range from £20,000 to £26,000 per year.  

For example, Siemens' marketing intern earns £21,840, while Tesco's customer internship offers £26,000. 

Find out more

• Search marketing, advertising and PR work experience opportunities. 
• For other opportunities to enter the sector, see work experience. 
• Consider how to ask employers for work experience.