Selecting the right CIM study centre can seem a daunting task! It’s the same qualification so doesn’t matter where you study, right? Wrong! Just as every student has different preferences, CIM study centres offer very different learning experiences to meet those requirements.
It’s worth spending some time approaching at least three centres to examine which one is right for you. That initial research can pay dividends several times over by finding the centre that best accommodates your needs and preferences.
Here are some key questions you should be asking?
1. What mode of study is on offer?
There are several different study modes for your CIM qualification, including face to face, blended, virtual, online and distance learning. Some definitions of each vary from centre to centre, so make sure you ask them to explain exactly what you will get. Also, it’s worth asking if the course has actually run recently in the mode you are interested in to avoid the disappointment of being told last minute that it will not run once you have booked (and paid).
2. What is the maximum class size?
Lots of centres say they have small groups, but the definition of ‘small’ can vary from centre to centre. Some believe that 4-8 is a small group, others think that 20+ is a small group. So, make sure you ask….and don’t be fobbed off with the suggestion that it varies, ask for the maximums!
3. Will I complete one module at a time?
Again, this varies from centre to centre. Some complete a single module per term so that you have completed one before starting another, others ‘overlap’ so you would be starting a new module while still working on your previous module. ‘Overlapping’ may delay when you complete your course as you may still be waiting for your final module result.
4. How long do I have to complete the course?
Most centres offer some degree of flexibility in how long you have to complete the course…always worth checking.
5. When can I start the course?
CIM study centres all offer course starting at different times. Take a few moments to consider when its best for you to start. You may not want to start if , for example, you have a heavy workload on the horizon.
6. Do you offer additional material for students who are a little ‘rusty’?
Many students have studied marketing in the past, maybe as part of a degree or they simply have practical experience but could do with a small refresher before starting their studies again. Most centres offer this – some make more of a big deal of it than others – but most offer it, so do check.
The above list of questions is by no means exhaustive, but it should help you decide what type of learning environment is going to be right for you and make your CIM studies as happy as possible.
Make sure you speak to or meet the team, ideally at a live virtual open evening so you can ask lots of questions. That is often a key indicator of both the culture of the study centre and the type of student you will be working with. Being in the right environment with the right support from the team and your fellow students can make all the difference!
At, CIM Study Centre, London Marketing Set:
1. We offer Face, to face, blended and Virtual classes– if we say we offer a course in a specific mode, then we will run it!
2. Our classes are always capped for a better learning experience – a typical class size is 12-16 students.
3. You will only study one module at a time allowing you to concentrate your efforts.
4. You should be able to complete the CIM Foundation Certificate in Professional and Digital Marketing in 6 months and the CIM Certificate in Professional and Digital Marketing and the CIM Diploma in Professional and Digital Marketing in one year.
5. You can start CIM courses in September/October, January, April or July.
6. We offer CIM Diploma students access to the Marketing Impact module to refresh their knowledge before starting their studies.
Come and meet us at London Marketing Set – we’d be happy to give you individual advice. Just give us a call or come to one of our virtual open evenings.
Good luck!
