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Course profile

Marketing Strategy (MKTG3501)

Study period
Sem 2 2024
Location
St Lucia
Attendance mode
In Person

Course overview

Study period
Semester 2, 2024 (22/07/2024 - 18/11/2024)
Study level
Undergraduate
Location
St Lucia
Attendance mode
In Person
Units
2
Administrative campus
St Lucia
Coordinating unit
Business School

Marketing strategy combines advanced knowledge and practical acumen to create and sustain superior competitive advantage for organisations. This course dives deep into the latest management concepts and marketing strategies - including completing a marketing audit, and planning, executing and evaluating a marketing plan. This course builds on your previous learning of marketing and consumer behaviour theories and brings this together with a strategic focus. You will emerge with the advanced skills needed to develop and implement an integrated marketing strategy that generates value for customers and growth for your organization. This course also focuses upon critical evaluation of marketing principles developed through practical exercises and detailed analyses of real-life case studies.

Marketing strategyᅠbegins with an appreciation of the contemporary environment in which marketing strategy exists and considers the customer centric nature of business performance. A firm with a competitive advantage can lead to superior financial performance when that advantage is strategically crafted. Thus, Marketing Strategy will look closely at strategic manoeuvres for success. Specifically, this course examines the role of marketing and marketing professionals in creating a comparative advantage with firm resources in the contemporary marketing environment. Please note that is expected that students have a prior knowledge of key marketing theory and concepts as this is a third year level course.

The framework on which the course is based draws heavily from practical advances in thinking about how contested markets operate and the proper role of marketing managers acting on behalf of firms within these markets. You will be given the freedom to show your creativity in problem solving, as you demonstrate your ability to apply theory to practical marketing situations.

Course requirements

Assumed background

It is assumed that students will have an interest in business and marketing, and have completed marketing courses earlier in their degree studies. Students will struggle without this background. Before attempting this course, therefore, students are advised that it is important to complete the appropriate prerequisite course(s) listed on the front of this course profile. No responsibility will be accepted by the School of Business, the Faculty of Business, Economics and Law or The University of Queensland for poor student performance occurring in courses where the appropriate prerequisite(s) has/have not been completed, for any reason whatsoever.

Prerequisites

You'll need to complete the following courses before enrolling in this one:

MKTG2501

Incompatible

You can't enrol in this course if you've already completed the following:

MKTG7512

Restrictions

Quota: Minimum of 35 enrolments

Course contact

Course staff

Lecturer

Timetable

The timetable for this course is available on the UQ Public Timetable.

Additional timetable information

Please note: Teaching staff doᅠnotᅠhave access to the timetabling system to help with class allocation. Therefore, should you need help with your timetable and/or allocation of classes, please ensure you email business.mytimetable@uq.edu.au from your UQ student email account with the following details:

Full name

Student ID

Course Code

Aims and outcomes

This course aims to examine the role of marketing and marketing professionals in creating a competitive advantage in firm resources. Specifically, toᅠintroduce students to the higher level literature on marketing theory and practice, to allow students to critically analyse and develop competitive marketing strategies in a range of industries and to provide students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills by working onᅠmarketing scenarios.

Learning outcomes

After successfully completing this course you should be able to:

LO1.

Recognise strategic marketing issues faced by contemporary organisations.

LO2.

Critically analyse marketing situations, using evidence to identify marketing problems and opportunities.

LO3.

Evaluate the viability of competitive marketing strategies, considering both innovative and traditional marketing solutions.

LO4.

Argue the importance of ethical marketing practice for ongoing firm success.

LO5.

In groups, create marketing strategy to maximise marketing and firm performance.

Assessment

Assessment summary

Category Assessment task Weight Due date
Paper/ Report/ Annotation Theoretical & Practical Review 30% Individual

11/09/2024 2:00 pm

Week 8

Presentation Marketing Strategy Presentation
  • Team or group-based
40% Group

16/10/2024 2:00 pm

Week 12

Reflection Critical learning reflection 30% Individual

4/11/2024

During the exam period

Assessment details

Theoretical & Practical Review

Mode
Written
Category
Paper/ Report/ Annotation
Weight
30% Individual
Due date

11/09/2024 2:00 pm

Week 8

Learning outcomes
L01, L02, L03

Task description

Individual review of set topic, linked to theortical analysis and practical application.

Students are to conduct a critical examination of the topic by conducting an extensive literature review and linking this with the experience of the simulation, following the specific structure guidelines provided via Learn.UQ. This is strictly an individual task and students will be required to address a specific topic which will involve reviewing key strategic marketing literature, evaluating individual learning and consideration of the influence of marketing strategy theory upon future marketing decision making. Further details are available via Learn.UQ and will be discussed during class time. A maximum word limit has been set in the guidelines available via Learn.UQ and any words submitted above the maximum limit will not be eligible for marking.

This assessment task evaluates students' abilities, skills and knowledge without the aid of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT). Students are advised that the use of AI or MT technologies to develop responses is strictly prohibited and may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.

Submission guidelines

The written assignment must be submitted electronically through Turnitin Submission on the Learn.UQ site, based on the specific instructions provided. Students who fail to follow the exact submission instructions will incur late penalties until submission is resolved.

Deferral or extension

You may be able to apply for an extension.

Marketing Strategy Presentation

  • Team or group-based
Mode
Oral
Category
Presentation
Weight
40% Group
Due date

16/10/2024 2:00 pm

Week 12

Other conditions
Peer assessment factor.

See the conditions definitions

Learning outcomes
L01, L02, L03, L04, L05

Task description

The marketing strategy recorded video presentation will involve the development of a full marketing strategy pitch which is to be undertaken as a group. This project will require practical activity throughout the semester and will involve the development of a persuasive presentation. A full description of this major assessment item will be provided by the course coordinator and will be available via Learn.UQ. The presentation should be persuasive, concise and clearly argued, professionally articulating your strategic recommendations. Scholarly, as well as industry and company evidence will be integral to performance. APA Referencing is suitable, included as the last slide in the presentation.

Team work

Teams will be formed within tutorials, so students can only form groups with others enrolled in their tutorial. Students who enrol late or do not engage with their team early in the course, may be required to complete the task as an individual, or in a smaller team that may formed of remaining students. 

Team work is a valuable and important component of this program. Students should be aware that in normal circumstances, all members of the team will receive the same mark for the project, unless individual group issues are formally lodged. A team contract will be submitted and peer evaluation will be undertaken by all teams and will be considered in conjunction with the team contract and group records. Group contributions should be monitored weekly and proactive issues management should be implemented. Often issues are managed through clear communications and can be resolved for positive team outcomes. As such, all group issues should be proactively addressed via discussion or email with your class tutor. It is essential that teams attempt to resolve issues during the project. However, individuals who are shown to not perform to the group standard will be penalized, having marks deducted to a standard which reflects the evidence, which may include receiving zero marks where warranted. In such situations, all individuals are responsible for keeping evidence of their contributions to the group.

This assessment task evaluates students' abilities, skills and knowledge without the aid of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT). Students are advised that the use of AI or MT technologies to develop responses is strictly prohibited and may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.

Submission guidelines

All group videos will be submitted online via Blackboard as per the instructions set out in the course site.

Deferral or extension

You may be able to apply for an extension.

Critical learning reflection

Mode
Written
Category
Reflection
Weight
30% Individual
Due date

4/11/2024

During the exam period

Learning outcomes
L01, L03, L04

Task description

Students must conduct a critical written reflection of their learning in the course, following the specific structure guidelines provided via Learn.UQ. This is strictly an individual task and students will be required to address a specific topic which will involve reviewing key strategic marketing literature, evaluating individual learning and consideration of the influence of marketing theory upon future marketing decision making. Further details are available via Learn.UQ and will be discussed during class time. 

 This assessment task evaluates students' abilities, skills and knowledge without the aid of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT). Students are advised that the use of AI or MT technologies to develop responses is strictly prohibited and may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.

Submission guidelines

The written assignment must be submitted electronically through the Turnitin Submission Point on the Learn.UQ site, based on the specific instructions provided. Students who fail to follow the exact submission instructions will incur late penalties until submission is resolved.

Deferral or extension

You may be able to apply for an extension.

Course grading

Full criteria for each grade is available in the Assessment Procedure.

Grade Cut off Percent Description
1 (Low Fail) 0 - 29

Absence of evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes.

2 (Fail) 30 - 46

Minimal evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes.

3 (Marginal Fail) 47 - 49

Demonstrated evidence of developing achievement of course learning outcomes

4 (Pass) 50 - 64

Demonstrated evidence of functional achievement of course learning outcomes.

5 (Credit) 65 - 74

Demonstrated evidence of proficient achievement of course learning outcomes.

6 (Distinction) 75 - 84

Demonstrated evidence of advanced achievement of course learning outcomes.

7 (High Distinction) 85 - 100

Demonstrated evidence of exceptional achievement of course learning outcomes.

Additional course grading information

Grades will be allocated according to University-wide standards of criterion-based assessment.

Supplementary assessment

Supplementary assessment is available for this course.

Learning resources

You'll need the following resources to successfully complete the course. We've indicated below if you need a personal copy of the reading materials or your own item.

Library resources

Find the required and recommended resources for this course on the UQ Library website.

Additional learning resources information

Learn (Blackboard)

All courses are supported by the UQ Learning Management System, Blackboard Learn, which provides an interactive environment for the students and teachers. This is accessible via PC or Mac or Mobile (Apps) environment.

To log on to Blackboard, go to https://learn.uq.edu.au.

Sustainable Development Goal

This course integrates the following Sustainable Development Goal through lectures and tutorials.

Goal 12: Responsible consumption and production

Learning activities

The learning activities for this course are outlined below. Learn more about the learning outcomes that apply to this course.

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Learning period Activity type Topic
Week 1
Lecture

Introducing Marketing Strategy

Course and marketing overview Assessment overview Prior assumptions.

Learning outcomes: L01

No student involvement (Breaks, information)

No tutorials

Tutorials and simulation planning will begin in Week 2

Week 2
Lecture

Customer centricity

Establishing a customer focus for marketing strategy

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03

Tutorial

Course overview

An introduction to course plans, reviewing tutorial plans, simulation plans, assessment plans and group formation.

Learning outcomes: L01

Week 3
Lecture

Market Analysis

Examine the market influences which impact marketing strategy.
A1 overview

Learning outcomes: L01, L02

Tutorial

Customer choices

Application of customer focus to marketing strategy. Group registration.

Simulation initiation Q1: Organise the team, name the company, and contract for a survey of potential customers.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02

Week 4
Lecture

Public holiday - no lecture this week

No lecture due to public holiday

Tutorial

Marketing environment

Exploring the environment. Group contracts submitted. A1 Q&A session.

Simulation Q2: Analyse market information, establish strategic direction and set up shop (design brands and set up sales outlets.)

Royal Queensland Show Public Holiday - No Wednesday 14 August tutorial - Check Blackboard for announcements about affected classes.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03

Week 5
Lecture

Marketing strategies

Exploration of generic offensive and defensive marketing manoeuvres

Learning outcomes: L03, L05

Tutorial

Considering strategic choices

A1 Q&A.

Exec Briefing Prep

Simulation Q3: Test-market brands, prices, ad copy, media campaigns, set up web pages, and sales staffing.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02

Week 6
Lecture

Branding - Segmentation and targeting

Strategic brand decisions - Segmenting and targeting.

Learning outcomes: L03, L05

Tutorial

Executive briefings

1:1 group executive briefing (as scheduled): Identification of strategic market decisions - segmentation/targeting.

Formal peer evaluation due.

Simulation Q4: Study end user feedback, competition, and financial performance, and make adjustments in strategy and tactics - student led session.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02

Week 7
Lecture

Branding - Differentiation and Positioning

Strategic brand decisions - Differentiation and Positioning.

Learning outcomes: L03, L05

Tutorial

Simulation review

Examination of marketing strategy decisions and implications from simulation.

A1 Q&A.

Simulation Q5: Strategy implementation (Invest in R&D for the future, expand market coverage with new sales outlets, begin social media campaign, and invest in search engine marketing).

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L05

Week 8
Lecture

Marketing mix

Execution of strategic marketing mix plans.

Learning outcomes: L02, L03, L05

Tutorial

Customer and marketing mix choices

Considerations of customer analysis and strategic choices in marketing strategy. Examining how marketing strategy is implemented.

Simulation Q6: Refine the marketing strategy (Introduce new brands with new R&D feature; Continue with market expansion by adding advertising, sales people and new outlets; Study the market and financial data to determine how to better meet customer needs and surpass the competition through brand design, pricing, advertising, distribution, and internet marketing).

Learning outcomes: L04, L05

Week 9
Lecture

Marketing agility and innovation, A2 Overview

Exploring marketing agility and implications for strategy.

Implications of innovation in marketing.

A2 overview.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05

Tutorial

Executive briefings

1:1 group executive briefing (as scheduled): Marketing mix implementation.

Peer evaluation.

A2 Planning.

Simulation Q7: Refine the marketing strategy - student led session.

Learning outcomes: L02, L03, L05

Mid Sem break
No student involvement (Breaks, information)

In-semester break

No lectures or tutorials this week due to mid-semester break.

Week 10
Lecture

Contemporary topics - AI, Digital, Analytics

Examination of marketing considerations for emerging AI and digital environment.

Exploration of innovation adoption for marketing.

Review of considerations for marketing analytics.

Learning outcomes: L03, L04, L05

Tutorial

A2 presentation prep

Final A2 tips and Q&A session.

Simulation Q8: Final adjustments to marketing strategy for this FINAL simulation activity.

Learning outcomes: L03, L05

Week 11
Lecture

Ethics and macromarketing

Examination of ethical issues in marketing and society.

Learning outcomes: L04

Tutorial

Catch up week

Tutorials will run as open consultation sessions.
No tutorials or simulation activities are run this week. Students will focus on finalising A2 assessment submissions.

Week 12
Lecture

Global considerations

Examination of global marketing issues and opportunities.

Learning outcomes: L03, L04, L05

Tutorial

Contemporary topics review

Review of contemporary ethical themes.

A3 planning.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05

Week 13
Lecture

Course review

Brief review of course highlights.

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05

Tutorial

Simulation review

Final review of simulation activity, examining simulation results and reflecting on learning outcomes A3 Q&A.

Completion of final assumptions (for comparison to prior).

Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05

Additional learning activity information

All students will participate in a weekly group online simulation to apply marketing experience to a simulated real life scenario. Groups will be assigned tasks for progressing EVERY week and work through a series of activity quarters in the Strategic Marketing online simulation. Attendance and participation in tutorial simulation sessions is a must for all, with the simulation incorporated into each assessment in the course. Students who do not engage with their teams during the simulation may be removed from the teams for assessment.

Policies and procedures

University policies and procedures apply to all aspects of student life. As a UQ student, you must comply with University-wide and program-specific requirements, including the:

Learn more about UQ policies on my.UQ and the Policy and Procedure Library.