The chart displayed compares the number of applications to a teaching course (PGCE 5-11 with QTS) at the University of Northampton before and after the release of a podcast series. The data contrasts the pre-podcast applications in 2023 with post-podcast applications in 2024 across three months: July, May, and February. The blue bars, representing 2024 post-podcast applications, show a noticeable increase in student interest compared to the red bars, representing 2023 pre-podcast applications, highlighting the impact of the podcast series on driving engagement and applications.

How Podcasts Impact University Course Applications

Podcasts are a powerful tool for universities to connect with prospective students. They provide an engaging and accessible platform for detailed storytelling and information sharing. For teaching courses like the PGCE at the University of Northampton, podcasts can demystify the application process and showcase the value of the program. By featuring authentic voices—students, faculty, and alumni—podcasts build trust and offer prospective students insights into what they can expect, making them more confident in applying.

This case study highlights the potential for podcasts to boost recruitment by addressing common questions, reducing uncertainties, and fostering a sense of connection. Their flexibility allows them to reach audiences who may not engage with traditional marketing materials, making them a modern and effective tool for educational institutions aiming to stand out.

TESTIMONIAL

"I cannot speak highly enough of the incredible support and expertise provided by the team at PHOTOMAFIA Studios. When tasked with improving recruitment for the PGCE 5-11 with QTS at the University of Northampton, I explored several options. After much research, I had the pleasure of working with the PHOTOMAFIA team, who expertly guided me in creating a series of podcasts aimed at not only informing applicants about the various teaching routes available but also supporting them through every stage of the application journey.

The podcast series was an invaluable resource, covering everything from understanding different teaching pathways to offering insights into the application process and tips for making the most of the first week on the course. With their help, the production process was seamless. The team worked closely with me to fit recording sessions into my busy schedule and even arranged bulk recording sessions to ensure efficiency.

What impressed me most was their support in the dissemination of the podcasts to our target audience, along with their clear guidance on how to track and analyse metrics to optimise recruitment. The results speak for themselves: during the peak recruitment period, we saw a remarkable 54.2% increase in applications. While there are several factors at play, the podcasts clearly made a significant impact.

Undergraduate students, who are often short on time and overwhelmed by the volume of information available, found the podcasts to be the perfect way to engage with the content. The bite-sized, targeted episodes allowed them to easily access the key information they needed at specific points in the application process.

The versatility of the podcasts has been invaluable—whenever prospective students have questions or need clarification on any aspect, I can simply direct them to the relevant episodes for further support. Anecdotally, many students have shared how helpful they found the podcasts in making their final decision, with many selecting our course as their first choice.

I wholeheartedly recommend PHOTOMAFIA Studios for their exceptional guidance, professionalism, and dedication in helping me bring this podcast series to life. I’m excited to continue collaborating with them to produce future episodes. Both our marketing and admissions teams have praised the podcasts for their role in successfully attracting and recruiting more students to the course. Thank you, PHOTOMAFIA, for making a real difference!"

- Lucy Westley (Lead PGCE lecturer)