Learn which path best aligns with your career goals, from traditional marketing to cutting-edge digital strategy.
Introduction: Choosing the Right Marketing Path
With today’s fast-paced, digitally-driven economy, marketing skills have never been more in demand. But when you’re deciding what to study, the difference between traditional marketing courses and modern digital marketing courses can feel unclear. At Oakfields College, we help you make that choice with confidence.
As one of South Africa’s leading creative colleges, we offer both types of courses at our campuses in Pretoria and Johannesburg. Each offers unique skills, career outcomes, and learning experiences. Here’s how to choose the right one for your future.
Understanding the Two Paths: Marketing vs. Digital Marketing
What Do Marketing Courses Cover?
Marketing courses offer a broad view of the marketing profession. They explore the principles and practices that underpin how brands reach customers, from market research to product placement and communication strategies.
Topics typically covered include:
- Consumer behaviour
- Brand development
- Public relations
- Advertising techniques
- Marketing strategy and planning
- Media and communication
These courses prepare students for careers in a variety of sectors, including retail, corporate marketing departments, advertising agencies, and public relations firms.
What Do Digital Marketing Courses Cover?
Digital marketing courses focus specifically on marketing within online and digital platforms. They train students in the skills needed to build, launch, and analyse online campaigns using tools and technologies like:
- Social media marketing
- Email marketing
- Search engine optimisation (SEO)
- Google Ads and PPC advertising
- Content marketing
- Data analytics and campaign tracking
These programmes are ideal for those who want to pursue roles in digital agencies, e-commerce companies, startups, or as freelance digital strategists.
Key Differences Between the Two Courses
Scope
Marketing courses provide a broader focus on the core principles and strategies of marketing, such as branding, consumer behaviour, public relations, and campaign planning. In contrast, digital marketing courses focus specifically on marketing in online environments, teaching students how to build and manage campaigns using digital tools and platforms.
Tools
Traditional marketing courses may cover print media, radio and TV advertising, public relations, and event-based activations. Digital marketing courses focus on tools like Google Ads, Meta Ads, social media scheduling platforms, email automation, and web analytics software.
Career Paths
Graduates of marketing courses often pursue roles such as marketing manager, brand strategist, or PR consultant. Those who complete digital marketing courses typically aim for careers as SEO specialists, digital strategists, content marketers, or paid media buyers.
Learning Style
Marketing courses tend to be more strategic and theory-driven, helping students understand the long-term principles behind brand and consumer relationships. Digital marketing programmes, on the other hand, are more hands-on and practical, involving live tools, real-time data, and applied techniques.
Industry Application
Marketing qualifications are often suited to traditional corporate environments, agencies, and organisations that focus on long-term brand positioning. Digital marketing qualifications are better aligned with modern, digital-first businesses such as e-commerce brands, startups, and tech-driven agencies.
Why Study at Oakfields College?
Whether you're interested in traditional or digital marketing, Oakfields College provides industry-relevant education with a practical edge. Here’s what makes our approach different:
1. Real-World Learning
All our marketing-related courses are built with hands-on experience at the core. From case studies to campaign simulations, you won’t just learn about marketing—you’ll do it.
2. Lecturers Who Know the Industry
Our lecturers are experienced professionals actively working in their fields. They bring industry insights, mentorship, and current best practices into every class.
3. Small Classes, Big Outcomes
We keep our classes small so every student gets the attention and feedback they need to succeed. You’ll collaborate with peers, refine your ideas, and grow in confidence.
4. Campuses in Creative Hubs
Study at our campuses in Pretoria or Johannesburg, where you’ll be surrounded by creative energy, access to industry connections, and endless inspiration.
Testimonials from Past Students
“I took the digital marketing course at Oakfields and landed my first client within 2 months of graduating. The skills were practical and immediately useful.”
— Mbali, Freelance Digital Marketer
“Studying marketing gave me a solid foundation to move into brand strategy. The lecturers really helped shape my understanding of the market.”
— Kabelo, Junior Brand Strategist
Which One Should You Choose?
If you're still unsure whether a marketing or digital marketing course is right for you, consider the following:
Choose a marketing course if you want to:
- Understand the full spectrum of marketing
- Work in brand or product management
- Combine strategic thinking with creative planning
Choose a digital marketing course if you want to:
- Dive deep into online marketing tools and tactics
- Work in fast-paced digital environments
- Launch a career in SEO, paid media, or content strategy
Ready to Build Your Career in Marketing?
Whichever path you choose, Oakfields College is here to guide you with expert instruction, supportive mentors, and industry-driven content. Whether you opt for a marketing course or a digital marketing course, you’ll gain practical skills that employers value.
👉 Contact us today to speak to an advisor.
👉 Explore our marketing and digital courses now and find your future in the creative world.
