London Metropolitan Business School

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1 North Campus London Metropolitan Business School MSc Purchasing and Supply Chain Management Postgraduate Course Handbook For admission in PURSCM-N

2 Postgraduate Academic Year AUTUMN SEMESTER Start - End Welcome Programme 22 September September 2011 Teaching 3 October December 2011 Christmas Break 19 December January 2012 Teaching/revision 9 January January 2012 Examinations 16 January February 2012 Dissertation Deadline 20 January 2012 SPRING SEMESTER Welcome Programme (new February entrants only) 30 January February 2012 Teaching 6 February March 2012 Easter Break 2 April April 2012 Teaching 16 April May 2012 Teaching/revision 8 May May 2012 Examinations 14 May June 2012 Dissertation Deadline 18 May 2012 SUMMER STUDIES PERIOD Summer Studies Period 1 June August 2012 Resit Examinations 16 July July 2012 Reassessment Coursework 27 July 2012 Dissertation Deadline 31 August 2012 Note Masters courses are based on a teaching year designed to amount to 48 weeks in total In addition to these dates you need to be aware of other important events and deadlines throughout the year; such as coursework submission dates, publication of the exam timetable, publication of results, mitigating circumstances deadlines, programme planning deadlines. You can access these at:

3 1 KEY CONTACTS Postgraduate Office: Stapleton House Postgraduate Office Administration Manager of the Postgraduate Office: Sara Carruthers Faculty Administrative Office: Course Leader: Edmund Toal Course Leader s Office: Main Campus teaching location: North

4 2 CONTENTS 1.0 WELCOME TO YOUR COURSE AND FACULTY 1.1 Using Your Handbook 1.2 Introduction to the Course 1.3 Key Features of Postgraduate Courses 1.4 Introduction to your Faculty 1.5 Location and Faculty Facilities supporting the course 1.6 Learning and Teaching on the Course 1.7 Research in your Faculty 2.0 BEING A STUDENT 2.1 Welcome Programme Checklist 2.2 Your first semester 2.3 Attendance, academic engagement and employment 2.4 Studying 2.5 Building Careers 2.6 Enrolment and Re-enrolment 2.7 Credit for previous learning 2.8 Module registration, course planning and approval 2.9 Your Timetable 2.10 Publication of Results and Transcripts 3.0 MANAGING YOUR ACADEMIC LIFE ON-LINE 3.1 Your University IT Account 3.2 Communication 3.3 Your Contact Details 3.4 Evision 3.5 WebLearn Online module resources 3.6 StARS 3.7 Course Committees 3.8 Students views on modules and courses 3.9 Postgraduate representation through the Students Union 4.0 SOURCES OF INFORMATION AND ADVICE 4.1 Postgraduate Office 4.2 Postgraduate Course Leader 4.3 Module Lecturers 4.5 Student Success through Learning Development 4.6 Student Services 4.7 Disabilities and Inclusion 4.8 Placements/study abroad 5.0 DISSERTATION OR PROJECT 5.1 Registration 5.2 Supervision Arrangements 5.3 Topic approval 5.4 Planning and Timing 5.5 Submission 6.0 MARKING AND ASSESSMENT 6.1 Academic Regulations 6.2 Marking and grades 6.3 Your responsibilities concerning Assessment 6.4 Academic Misconduct 6.5 Assessment Feedback 6.6 Submission of coursework 6.7 Examination Timetable

5 6.8 Past Examination Papers 6.9 Mitigating Circumstances 6.10 Assessment Board Appeals 6.11 Action in the event of failure to pass a module 6.12 University Criteria for Awards 6.13 Withdrawal from a module 6.14 Intermission of Studies 6.15 Mode of Study 6.16 Course Transfers 7.0 STUDY RESOURCES AND FACILITIES 7.1 Libraries and Special Collections 7.2 Academic Liaison Librarians and Subject Guides 7.3 Student feedback 7.4 ICT Services and Media Resources 7.5 Open Language Programme 8.0 COURSE SPECIFICATION 9.0 USEFUL INFORMATION 10.0 DIRECTORY OF MODULES FOR THE COURSE 11.0 INDEX OF KEY SOURCES OF INFORMATION 11.1 Relevant University Procedures 11.2 Useful online information 3

6 1 1.0 WELCOME TO YOUR COURSE AND FACULTY This is the Course Handbook for the MSc Purchasing and Supply Chain Management. The staff of the London Metropolitan Business School warmly welcome you to London Metropolitan University North Campus and to the study of Purchasing and Supply Chain Management. 1.1 Using Your Handbook Your Course Handbook contains a wealth of information. Some of it will be of more relevance to you later in the course than at the start of your studies. You can access your Course Handbook either by logging into your Evision account or via the University s website at: We recommend that you read this Course Handbook thoroughly and carefully, as it covers many of the questions you will have about your course. Sections 3 and 4 in particular will help you locate the advice you will need. Section 11.1 contains an Index of key sources of information that you may need to access during your course. For more detailed information you will sometimes need to consult other sources, including: University Student Handbook - for details of important University regulations and procedures. It also provides information on university life and the support services available. The University Student Handbook can be accessed at: PostGrad-Line a comprehensive on-line source of postgraduate course and module information available at: Postgraduate students webpage a comprehensive on-line resource for postgraduate students. Provides information about your course, timetables, details of timeslots and room numbers for most taught modules. Once you have completed enrolment and registration, you can view and print your personal timetable Please see: The Course Specification (Section 8 of this handbook) defines the key features of your course, its aims, structure and learning outcomes, and includes all the modules you must study for the award. All postgraduate courses are governed by the University s Academic Regulations ( It is your responsibility to be fully aware of the regulations which govern your studies as a postgraduate student of the University. Your course may in addition have some course specific regulations or may be governed by a Professional Body. Where relevant these are included in paragraph 32 of the Course Specification, contained within Section 8 of this handbook. You should also note that occasionally, the details in this Handbook, including the Course Specification, may be amended or revised, in order to improve the Course. The University is reviewing postgraduate education as part of its commitment to enhancing learning. This will not affect full-time students completing in September However, it is possible that this may affect a small number of part-time students. In the event of this occurring, any students affected will be advised during We would encourage you to participate as a Student Representative (see Section 3.6). We welcome your comments about the course or any suggestions for improvements. We wish you every success in your studies.

7 2 1.2 Introduction to the Course More and more organisations have come to realise the benefits that can be reaped by professional management of their supply chain and are seeking highly qualified staff in this specialist area. The course delivers masters level teaching on a range of SCM related topics. On successful completion of the course, graduates will have a masters qualification which will help them progress their careers in this specialised field. 1.3 Key Features of Postgraduate Courses The Course Specification (see Section 8) details your course curriculum and structure and you should study this carefully. Many features are defined by the Postgraduate Regulatory Framework, part of the University s Academic Regulations (see Section 11.1 of this handbook for details), which sets out general features common to almost all Masters courses. (i) Full-time students starting Masters programmes in the Autumn semester are taught over a 48- week year (an autumn and a spring semester and a summer studies period), requiring approximately 40 hours of study per week. For full-time students starting courses in February the workload is similar but is distributed over a longer study period and normally completed at the end of the following Spring semester. Part-time students undertake the equivalent overall workload over a longer period of study, normally at least two years. (ii) The standard Masters award requires 180 credits at level M: normally 120 credits for the taught elements and 60 credits for the Dissertation or Project. There are some exceptions to the rule, such as specified Masters courses in Human Resource Management, which require 180 credits, and the MBA at 220 credits. (iii) Most postgraduate modules are equivalent to 20 credits. Typically, a full-time student studies modules equivalent to 60 credits per semester (normally 3 modules), with 15 weeks of teaching, revision and assessment activities for each module. (iv) The taught elements of postgraduate courses are mainly compulsory core modules and normally include one concerned with research methodology and project development and practice, in preparation for the dissertation or project. Some courses may include designate modules, which can be chosen from a specified list for the course, or elective modules, which can be chosen from any available at postgraduate level. (v) All taught modules and the dissertation or project module, are marked on a percentage scale, with a pass/fail threshold of 50%. (vi) Based on the final aggregate of average percentage results, Masters awards are graded as: Masters (50-59%), Masters with Merit (60 69%), or Masters with Distinction (70% plus) (vii) While most students will aim to achieve the full Masters qualification, all Masters courses offer the subsidiary awards of Postgraduate Certificate or Postgraduate Diploma (both available with Merit or with Distinction) for students unable to complete their full programme of study. The full list of awards and their requirements is as follows: Award Credits at level M Modules Required Masters 180 credits (Level 7) 6 modules + dissertation (60 credits) Postgraduate Diploma 120 credits (Level 7) 6 modules Postgraduate Certificate 60 credits (Level 7) 3 modules

8 3 1.4 Introduction to your Faculty Following its successful launch in August 2007, London Metropolitan Business School (LMBS) became one of the largest Business Schools in Europe with ambitions and capabilities to match this international profile. With over 200 full-time academic staff, 9,000 students, and a wide selection of distinctive undergraduate and postgraduate courses, LMBS continues our tradition of being a major and comprehensive provider of business and management education in the country. We are the only mainstream UK Business School located within the city of London. Our vision is to be the leading international Business School in our chosen markets, through innovation and the development of global networks. Our mission is to enable individuals and organisations to realise their potential through the provision of excellent business and management education. A key feature since our launch has been the growth in our external networking reach to include a significant number of high profile Visiting Professors drawn largely from the private and public sectors. They impact on our curriculum, engage in master classes, and provide placement opportunities for some of our ablest students. For example, over the past three years four students have spent month long placements at the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) shadowing the Chief Economist there (who is a Visiting Professor) and working on research projects. Another Visiting Professor, highly placed within the Institute of Directors (IOD) has provided opportunities for a number of our students to benefit from networking closely with that organisation. A more recent initiative is to enhance our close business connections further by getting external organisations more directly involved and associated with our curriculum content and delivery. Whilst LMBS remains committed to serving London s business communities it also has an international reach with global research and collaborative partners. Indeed, this is as it should be given the global city status of London with its strong local-global links and international business-finance-cultural-consumer orientation. Indeed, students studying with us in London get the opportunity to be at the heart of what has been called the world s favourite market place. 1.5 Location and Faculty Facilities supporting the course LMBS is currently based at two University campuses. At the City campus, the School is located in the Moorgate Building and at the North campus, in Stapleton House. Teaching mainly takes place in these buildings but large classes may be timetabled in other University buildings on the respective campuses. A key feature of the LMBS student experience is the provision of resources to enhance learning. As well as a well-stocked library and modern ICT labs using cutting-edge technology, our facilities include a Bloomberg Research Trading Room where you can get hands-on experience of a dealing room. All courses are supported by a virtual learning environment, Weblearn, and we continue to invest in learning materials and platforms. Currently we are working with our counterparts at other Universities and with outside agencies to enhance our electronic learning resources further. Accommodation and facilities for students at each site include lecture theatres, classrooms, learning resources, administrative and student support facilities and refreshment and social facilities. At Moorgate and Stapleton House you can also find the offices of our employer engagement unit 'Business Works' - which has links with a large number of companies and organisations and assists students in obtaining work placements and internships, provides networking opportunities, organises employability events, enterprise related activities, and other career-facing communication platforms. Business School students also benefit from the modern facilities in the wider University. These include the Graduate School, designed by the world renowned architect Daniel Libeskind, and new sports and fitness facilities located in the state of the art Science Centre.

9 4 1.6 Learning and Teaching on the Course LMBS endeavours to provide students with an excellent learning experience that is current, academically challenging and vocationally relevant. An emphasis is also placed upon developing students personal transferable skills and attributes in order that they can progress to rewarding careers. We work in partnership with students to develop their knowledge and skill set, provide value-added experiences, and enhance their future employment opportunities. We strongly encourage students to engage in extracurricular activity and have a large number of vibrant and thriving student societies within the Business School which have a vocational and practitioner orientation. Our students also have the opportunity to engage in national competitions such as the IBM Business Challenge and Prince's Trust. The most recent subject review of our teaching, student support and course provision by the UK Government s Quality Assurance Agency awarded business and management education top marks and so placed it in the top 5% of UK Business Schools. In addition, the School s commitment to teaching has been recognized nationally and is reflected in the award of National Teaching Fellowships, Lecturer of the Year, and other awards to staff. LMBS offers one of the most comprehensive portfolios of undergraduate courses in the UK with study opportunities delivered by eight sizeable subject groups looking at the business world from a variety of connected perspectives: Accounting and Business Law Economics Finance and Financial Services Management, Strategy and Leadership Business Analysis, Information Systems, Transport and Logistics Human Resource Management Marketing and Communications Tourism, Sport and Creative Industries We strive to offer flexible degree schemes, committed and expert teaching, a supportive learning environment, and strong links with employers and professional bodies, ensuring currency, relevance and a commitment to providing the maximum professional accreditation and exemption opportunities for our students that we are able. As stated earlier, we recognise the need to develop the employability of our students and all courses are purposely designed to develop both subject and transferable skills, such as team-working and communication, which are so valued by employers. The Business School has strong links with employers and professional bodies. We encourage students to take advantage of opportunities for gaining work experience whilst on their course. To this end our Business Works unit is available to offer assistance to students in obtaining placements and internships. Recent employers we have worked with include Air France, Arsenal Football Club, Barclays Bank, BBC Worldwide, Chester Boyd, HSBC, Limelight Projects, Orient Express and the Hilton Hotel Group. We can also help students secure work experience abroad. Recent overseas based employers of our students include: Disney Florida and Paris, Rail Europe, DICR Europe Ltd, Eurocity Consultants (Brussels), Dunas Hotel (Grand Canaria), Siemens (Germany), Orient Express Hotels and Trains and Cruises Worldwide. Professional bodies we work with include the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, Chartered Institute of Marketing,

10 5 Chartered Institute of Public Relations, Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply, Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, British Academy of Management and Royal Aeronautical Society. Although much of the world can now be found in London, we do recognise that students can greatly benefit from studying abroad. The University s study abroad programmes provide students with an opportunity to study in another country and further strengthen their CVs. Some exchanges are supported financially and teaching is in English. Whatever course you are following, the opportunity exists to study in Europe for a semester under the Erasmus/ Socrates schemes. For those that remain in London for their studies they will be able to exchange ideas with students from over 100 countries. Additionally, through our links with universities throughout the world, alongside the fact that LMBS staff reflect an international outlook and/or background, and have experience of teaching in a global city, means that much of our curriculum content is underpinned by recognition of the global trends impacting on the business world. Given the above, it should come as no surprise to find that our graduates can be found working in many countries and in all sectors of the economy. Some of the organisations where our students have found employment include: BP, Coutts Bank, Daiwa, Deloitte and Touche, Deutsche Morgan Grenfell, Forte UK, Marks and Spencer, Rank Xerox, Royal Bank of Scotland, and Virgin. 1.7 Research in your Faculty Research in the Business School Research is a very important aspect of the Business School s work. It underpins the curriculum, sustains excellence in our teaching, supports consultancy, promotes relations with national and international partners and sustains an academic and intellectual ethos within the School. Research in the Business School is wide ranging in terms of the issues we address. We are, however, developing a distinctive profile and reputation around a number of research themes which characterise our mission, values and subject strengths, including economics, financial services, entrepreneurship, social enterprise, cultural and creative industries, world markets, governance, sustainability, corporate social responsibility, employment and equal opportunities, business analysis, professional and managerial practice and pedagogy. Through multi and inter-disciplinary research we can address real-world problems which are rarely amenable to single disciplinary solutions. Our partnerships with corporate, public sector and other educational organisations also provide us with a strong base for carrying out policy and practice-based and transnational research. Research in the Business School is mainly organised around a number of Research Centres. Currently these are: Cities Institute Management Research Centre (MRC) Comparative Organisation and Equality Research Centre (COERC) Centre for International Business and Sustainability (CIBS) Centre for Corporate Responsibility (CCR) Transport Research and Consultany (TRaC) Centre for Research in Marketing (CERMARK) Centre for Business Education Research (CEBER) Centre for Research in Cultural Industries Management (CeRCIM) Centre for Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA): Banking, Economics and Finance Centre for Research in African Business (proposed) These Centres undertake pure and applied research and consultancy in their fields. They also organise workshops, seminars and conferences, often with a strong international dimension, produce working papers

11 6 and reports and publish articles in academic and practitioner journals. Senior staff are also represented on the editorial boards of these publications.

12 7 2.0 BEING A STUDENT Undertaking study at postgraduate level is likely to involve new and different methods of working compared to your previous experience. You will study more specialised subject matter at a more advanced level, relatively quickly and over a shorter period. You will be expected to pursue your studies with a greater degree of independence than at undergraduate level and to set your own learning objectives within the framework of the course. The remainder of this section highlights the general features and expectations associated with postgraduate study. 2.1 Welcome Programme Checklist Following the Welcome Programme and Course Introductory Meeting, you should check that you have received the following: an ID card (including library number and computer network username) an address a course timetable the location of your Postgraduate Office the location of your Faculty Administrative Office the location of your main learning centre and IT facilities the name of your Course Leader If you arrived late you will still need to obtain the items above and there will be a late Welcome session for you. Contact your designated Postgraduate Office to ensure you know what to do and where to go to get started. Classes commence from Monday 3 October 2011, immediately following the Welcome Programme. 2.2 Your first semester After your welcome, you will find yourself in the first week of formal teaching, where you will meet the module lecturers, who will often be giving the main lecture for the module, and other teaching staff, who may be taking seminars or workshop groups. In this period you will also undertake an induction process/programme which will normally last between 1-3 weeks depending upon your course, which will help guide you through your semester and prepare you for your Masters Level course more generally. This induction period will be specifically designed with your disciplinary area in mind and will be different from course to course. However, at course level you should expect to receive information on the following as a minimum: a) Welcome and Induction by Course Leader to the course b) Introduction to course materials and handbooks c) Guidance on student/staff roles, rights, responsibilities and expectations d) Further support with understanding any timetabling information e) Course specific requirements regarding Library etc f) Role of the Postgraduate Offices g) Any Health & Safety requirements e.g. Lab protocols h) Specific Study Skills as necessary i) Mitigating Circumstances j) Policy on Plagiarism k) Personal Tutorial arrangements l) Election of Student Representatives (STARS) In addition, your Course Leader will be able to point you in the direction of other introductory materials or sessions run by other University departments, for example, Library Services, Student Services or the Students Union.

13 8 This induction schedule will culminate in one of two social events hosted by the University and the Students Union. These will take place three weeks into your first semester and you are welcome to attend one of these sessions which will be held at both campuses. Your first semester usually involves mainly compulsory (core) modules covering essential subject contents and skills elements in your area of study. During this first semester you will meet with your Course Leader who will discuss your study programme and advise you on how to plan your studies for the second semester if you did not do this at the start of the course. 2.3 Attendance, academic engagement and employment Your success depends upon full and regular attendance at all classes, seminars, lectures, workshops, tutorials and the completion of all of your module assessment(s), including your dissertation. Our records show that students who do not attend all their classes are at very high risk of failure. The University s Academic Regulations make it clear that attendance and full academic engagement are requirements of your registration on your course. The content of modules is progressive, so if you miss a session you will need to catch up. However, we do recognise that for some postgraduate students there may be occasions where your absence is unavoidable; in such circumstances, we strongly recommend that you contact your Course Leader or Module Tutor/Lecturer. If you are having ongoing difficulties with attendance or committing fully to your postgraduate studies please contact your Postgraduate Office for advice on what to do. Please note - for international students, the University is required by the UK Border Agency (UKBA) to confirm that you are in regular attendance. The University looks carefully at the evidence of your attendance and academic engagement and full-time students who fall below these requirements can find themselves being moved to a part-time programme. This can have serious implications for you and your course. In the case of part-time students, if you fail to meet attendance and academic engagement requirements the University may withdraw you from some of your modules. In some circumstances this can also lead to you being required to leave your course. We recognise that you may need to undertake part-time work, but strongly advise you not to take employment of more than 15 hours a week if you are a full time student (should you need to take employment of more than 15 hours per week we recommend you register as a part-time student). The University s Employment Service, in Student Services, can help you find a suitable part-time job that can enhance your employability and complement your studies. ( 2.4 Studying As a postgraduate student, you will be seeking to develop your learning at more advanced level and your course will provide many opportunities to acquire new knowledge and skills. To make the most of these you will need to develop a strategy for your studies, planning ahead, managing your time effectively and reflecting on your learning. Assessment is an important feature of study at postgraduate level. Each module booklet sets out detailed assessment requirements and learning outcomes, providing a focus for your studies. There are various forms of assessment and modules often involve a combination of examination and coursework or presentation. It is important that you understand clearly the expectations and deadlines for each item of assessment. You should be aware that all the various coursework assessments and examinations have to be completed for the achievement of your final award. In addition to attending the timetabled sessions, you will need to study in your own time. You should expect to spend hours per week on each module, making a 40 hour per week commitment for a full-time student. Part-time students need to plan a similar time commitment for each module, but will generally be taking fewer modules at any one time.

14 9 Independent study is particularly important when planning work for your dissertation or project. This is a substantial piece of work, to be developed and completed over a relatively lengthy period, with much of the writing concentrated in the final stages. Working closely with your assigned supervisor, you will need to plan your work carefully, with initial discussion to define the topic, preparatory research and reading, planning the structure of the research and final report, writing and re-writing particular sections and drafts. Please be respectful of the learning environment and remember to switch off your mobile phone before entering all classes and study areas. In summary: plan your learning strategy; allocate enough time; attend all of your module lectures, tutorials and other sessions; start assignments well in advance; seek advice and help when you need to; use the learning resources offered; and, enjoy the learning experience! 2.5 Building Careers At London Metropolitan University we pride ourselves in taking seriously your future employment potential. Whether you are studying for a postgraduate qualification in order to seek employment, developing an existing career or to engage with new career opportunities we will prepare and support you in this transition by developing the attributes and skills that employers need and by training your mind to deal with complex questions. Your course has been designed with the involvement of employers at a variety of levels and for many of you, your award will be accredited by a professional body recognised directly or indirectly by the industry to which it serves. All Masters level qualifications will enable you to specialise or to become more highly specialised in an area of employment or practice related to a particular profession. All of our Masters graduates will normally be equipped to continue academic study at a higher level, for example for a PhD or a professional doctorate. Graduates of a Masters level qualification will typically develop a range of key skills including: being able to use initiative and take responsibility, solve problems in creative and innovative ways, make decisions in challenging situations, continue to learn independently and to develop professionally, including the ability to pursue further research where appropriate, and communicate effectively, with colleagues and a wider audience, in a variety of media. These skills have been identified by the government as being critical in curtailing the continued shortage of higher level skills within the wider UK economy and we believe that you will be best placed following graduation in developing your career aspirations. You need to be effective and adaptable in challenging times, so we offer a range of services to support you including a career planning service. To see more details on how we prepare you for employability visit: Enrolment and Re-enrolment Enrolment is an annual process. The first time you enrol you will need to provide evidence of your identity and the qualifications which formed the basis of your offer from the University. You will also need to pay your tuition fees or demonstrate how these will be paid. The University ID card you receive at enrolment contains your library number and computer network username and allows entry to the University s buildings. Provided you fully completed the enrolment requirements your card should work throughout the year. If it stops working then please seek advice from your Postgraduate Office. By signing the enrolment form you confirm that you accept and will follow the University s regulations If you are studying on a part-time basis over more than one academic year or need to return to complete your studies, you will need to re-enrol online usually from around mid-august. Re-enrolment is necessary for your ID card to be reactivated for the new academic year. There will be a deadline for this so it is important that you complete this before the start of the next academic year.

15 Credit for previous learning If you already hold a qualification (for example from another college) that may exempt you from part of your course, you may apply for Accreditation of Prior Certificated Learning (APCL). Similarly, if you have undertaken work, paid or voluntary, that has resulted in learning skills or knowledge equivalent to a module you will be studying you may apply for Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL). Collectively these are known as Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL). It is important to be aware that any application for APL credit in respect of postgraduate studies must be based on prior learning or experience at a suitably advanced level. This means that it is not normally possible to accredit prior learning at undergraduate level, even if the content may appear similar. The University operates the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS), where 1 European credit (ECTS) is equivalent to 2 UK credits (CATS). Thus, each taught module of 20 credits is normally equivalent to 10 ECTS credits, and a full Masters of 180 UK credits is equivalent to 90 ECTS. If you wish to claim for APL please contact your Postgraduate Office or refer to the Index (Section 11) of this handbook for further information. 2.8 Module registration, course planning and approval Your Course Leader should provide the information you will require in order to choose your modules. Core Modules are compulsory for your course, but your course may also offer Designate Modules, which can be chosen from a specified list. Additionally, you may be allowed to take Elective Modules, which can be chosen from any available at postgraduate level. Further information about modules and their timeslots can be found on PostGrad-Line: When you carry out module registration you may be able to choose some time slots, subject to capacity of the class, if the module(s) run more than once. You are more likely to get your first choices if you register on time. Programme Planning Deadlines: 2011/12 Module Registration Dates Autumn Semester 2011/12 Starters Spring Semester 2011/12 Starters 22 September 30 September October November January January 3 February February 2012 March/April May 2012 Module Choice Events during Welcome Programme 1 Deadline for confirmation of Autumn Semester programmes 2. Confirmation of Spring Semester Modules 3 Autumn Semester Dissertation Deadline 4 Module choice exercise for students continuing their studies in 2012/13 Spring Semester Dissertation Deadline 4 Module Choice Events during Welcome Programme Deadline for confirmation of Spring Semester programmes Module choice exercise for students continuing their studies in 2012/13 31 August 2012 Summer Dissertation Deadline Summer Dissertation Deadline

16 11 1 Students should plan for the whole 2011/12 programme. 2 Students confirm their programme of study for the year and may not vary their Autumn Semester programme after this point 3 Students may make amendments to their Spring Semester programme (they cannot reduce the number of modules studied). 4 It is unlikely that students will be in a position to take their dissertation at this stage, but it is just possible that they may have sufficient credit at entry to do so. 2.9 Your Timetable The University timetable operates from 9.00 am to 9.00 pm, Monday to Friday. You will be given a course timetable at the Course Introductory Session. This gives timeslots and rooms for all modules on your course. Once you have registered your modules you can get a print out of your individual timetable for the current semester at: Your timetable will change each semester, and will be available on the web shortly before the start of each semester. If you do not have a course timetable please contact your Postgraduate Office without delay Publication of Results and Transcripts At the end of each semester Assessment Boards confirm marks and awards. The Postgraduate Offices are responsible for providing these results to you via Evision. (refer 3.4 below) An official transcript will be posted to you at your home address on the completion of your course. There is no charge for this end of course transcript but a fee will be payable for any subsequent transcripts. For reason of employment or to provide proof of study at the University during your course, you may need a formal transcript, stamped by the Postgraduate Office. There is a fee for these transcripts, payable at the time of request. Requests should be made to the Postgraduate Office, who aim to produce transcripts within 5 working days of request.

17 MANAGING YOUR ACADEMIC LIFE ON-LINE 3.1 Your University IT Account You use the same account to access all University IT systems. Your account name is printed at the top of on the ID card that you receive at enrolment and is 7 characters in length (e.g. ABC1234). Your password will be set initially to be your date of birth (DDMMYYYY) so you should change to something secure when you first log in. You can change your password and set details for resetting your password at: Communication We do our best to keep you informed of what you need to know at all times. We use the Web to provide much of the information you need so it is essential to familiarise yourself with the University website. At other times we will use to contact you so it is essential that you check your University on a regular basis. 3.3 Your Contact Details The University will contact you by letter, phone, or , perhaps to arrange a meeting, to provide you with information, or to respond to a query. It is therefore essential that you keep your contact details up to date on your student Evision account. Increasingly, we use to communicate and keep you informed. You will also have been allocated a University address, which is your 7 character account (see 3.1 above) e.g. ABC1234@my.londonmet.ac.uk. Even if you already have an account that you will continue to use you should regularly check your London Met account or set up an auto forward, as important messages will be sent to your University address. 3.4 Evision Evision is the University s online facility that allows you to access your personal student record, and is where you print your coursework coversheets and other forms that you may need. You also re-enrol via Evision and view information showing your attendance at classes. You can view your: Personal and contact details (can be updated online) Registered modules Enrolment and progression Tuition fee details Record of coursework deadlines and submissions Mitigating Circumstances decisions Module results (available from notified date of publication) Details of final award For more information please check: WebLearn Online module resources WebLearn provides online support for your modules, enabling you to communicate with your tutor and other students. Course materials, information and assessments are available on WebLearn as well as study programmes materials and such as Writing and Communicating at University. WebLearn requires your user name and password and can be accessed at:

18 13 THE STUDENT VOICE 3.6 StARS Feedback from students is vital to the University to find out how well the teaching, guidance and other services are working. This is obtained in different ways, including via Student Academic Representatives (StARs) who, supported by the Students Union, provide direct feedback from students on the course and raise any issues on their behalf. You will have the opportunity to stand for election as a StAR or to elect a fellow student. 3.7 Course Committees A Course Committee is normally convened each semester to review a set of modules and courses and provide quality assurance. Key staff, including module and course lecturers, attend these meetings and student input is received via your StARs. 3.8 Students views on modules and courses Students views are obtained by a variety of means such as focus groups and web-based questionnaires. While staff welcome informal feedback from students, module lecturers will produce formal monitoring reports which cover areas such as teaching, student feedback and assessment. Reports and action points agreed are available from both module and course reviews. 3.9 Postgraduate representation through the Students Union The University is proud to work with the Students Union which now has a Postgraduate Officer whom you may wish to contact about any student, pastoral or social issue. To contact the Students Union please access:

19 SOURCES OF INFORMATION AND ADVICE 4.1 Postgraduate Office The Postgraduate Office is the key administrative service to support you in your studies throughout your time at the University. You will be assigned to the Postgraduate Office linked to your course, normally in the building where the subject teaching staff are located. It will be here that you go with timetable queries, to plan your modules, to hand in your coursework, to collect letters you may need, and to ask any questions about your studies. You should also contact your Postgraduate Office in relation to the following issues: Queries about your enrolment status or the fees that you have been charged; Queries about your timetable or the modules that are registered for you; If your ID card is not working; Submit a module query, a claim for mitigating circumstances, an appeal, or get advice about examination arrangements; Advice on claiming credit for previous study or experience; Help you contact your course leader; Obtain standard letters and council tax exemption certificates; Visa extension letters for international students; Advice on the consequences of withdrawing. Each group of courses has a Course Administrator and you will become familiar with them throughout your time at the University. Your Postgraduate Office will also contact you if you are missing classes or not submitting work on time. The offices are normally open throughout the academic year but can also be contacted by phone or see When contacting your Postgraduate Office, please always quote your student number as it enables staff to access your information quickly and so respond to your query. 4.2 Postgraduate Course Leader Course leaders are the main contacts for personal academic advice, including programme planning and approval, and are also responsible for the day-to-day organisation of their course and liaising with academic and administrative staff. They can be a source of valuable advice for other matters also and should be tour first port of call if problems arise. They are able to: provide you with academic advice on all aspects of your studies and progress explain the implications of assessment results and associated feedback on your academic performance advise you on managing and planning your studies; refer you to Student Services for support regarding personal problems, housing, health and finance Your Course Leader can also write you a reference, for a job application for example. 4.3 Module Lecturers Module lecturers are members of academic staff who lead the modules contributing to your programme of study and are key to your learning experience. They should be your first port of call for advice on any topics you do not understand following a lecture or seminar. All Module lecturers have office hours these are set times during the week when they are available for consultation. For each module there will be a Module Booklet.

20 Student Success through Learning Development Some students may need extra help with their studies, sometimes for a particular module or, more generally, across their programme. This might include help with presentations, essay writing and critical analysis. It is always best to seek help in good time and to take advantage of the range of additional classes, courses and resources available. For the full range of study and skills programmes and to find out more about the Learning Development Unit, please visit: Student Services We provide a range of advice, information, guidance and counselling services to support you in achieving your academic aims, We provide advice on issues including. Academic Financial Personal Faith Careers/employment Disability Accommodation Student development Extra curricular activities Visit our web site to find out how we can help you make your time at London Met both enjoyable and successful 4.7 Disabilities and Inclusion The Student Advisers (Disability and Inclusion) can assist you if you have a disability, long-term medical or mental health condition or Specific Learning Difficulties (e.g. dyslexia). Support can include: Special examination arrangements Help with finding an academic support worker Screening if you think you have a Specific Learning Difficulty Assistance to apply for study-related funding If you are eligible for support, the Advisers can help you obtain a range of adjustments depending on the level of need identified. This may include: Practical Assistance: specialist tutors (specific learning difficulties), note-takers, or communication support Specific Adjustments to Study-Related Services: extended library loans (week loans only) or accessibility related rooming adjustments Teaching-Related Adjustments: internal needs assessment report to identify needs to Academic Staff Assessment Specific Adjustments: exam adjustments, coursework certificates or alternative assessment arrangements. Please Note There are some aspects of course assessment that cannot be changed. These are known as competence criteria. To be identified as competence criteria the assessed items must be essential to the course and all students must be able to fulfil these criteria. Although in such situations it may not be possible to alter the format of the assessment, you may still be entitled to adjustments (e.g. extra time or an amanuensis).

21 16 Placement support If you are required, as part of your course, to go on placement, we can provide assistance to ensure that the placement is suitable for you and for any required adjustments to be discussed and organised as appropriate. You may be entitled to government allowances. You are strongly advised to contact us for help with funding applications. For full information on the types of funding available: Placements/study abroad Get ahead in the employment market with an accredited work placement You will be aware that in addition to a good degree, relevant employment experience can help you get into the graduate job market after your studies. Work readiness is now one of the main requirements that employers look for when recruiting graduates. BusinessWorks at LMBS offers students the opportunity to take assessed work placements within their degree programme to enhance their professional knowledge and skills. 15 credit module Professional Work placement option (MN2W03) This elective module requires you to undertake 25 days or 175 hours work experience in your 2nd or 3rd year either during the summer or part-time during the semester. Often students are able to use their current part-time employment for the module or work with a Careers Consultant to help you find suitable experience. 12 month Sandwich Professional Placement (MN3W13)* You will gain an additional 30 credits to your degree qualification and the experience, knowledge and skills from a full-time professional role, relating to your area of study. You will be able to apply your academic knowledge in practice and will also receive an internationally recognised City & Guilds Licentiateship Award and membership of The Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM). The module takes place in the third year, extending your degree course to a four-year programme (offering reduced fees during the placement year). The BusinessWorks office will support you in seeking an appropriate placement. *Banking and Finance already includes a compulsory 12 month placement module. The assessments for both modules lead you to explore the business environment - whilst applying academic knowledge, to reflect upon your personal skills development and consider your future career plans. BusinessWorks has offices at both North and City campus. In addition to assisting students with work placements, we provide guidance on how to access a variety of self-development opportunities to help you develop essential professional skills and enjoy your time at University. Moorgate: Rooms MGS Tel: / 1671 / 1461 Stapleton House: Rooms SH-213 Tel: / Follow us on bus.works@londonmet.ac.uk

22 DISSERTATION OR PROJECT 5.1 Registration You register for your Masters Dissertation or Project in the same way as for your other modules - see section 2.8 Module Registration, Course Planning and Approval. Once you are registered for your dissertation/project, you are expected to submit it in the period for which you are registered. The University s standard assessment arrangements and mitigating circumstances procedures apply (see below for information on withdrawal and mitigating circumstances). Formal requirements for your dissertation are set out in detail in the Dissertation/Project Module Booklet for your course. Please note that some postgraduate courses will require you to have passed research methods before you can begin your Dissertation/Project. The main aspects are summarised below: 5.2 Supervision Arrangements Course Leaders are responsible for arrangements for allocating supervisors with appropriate expertise to match your area of research interest. However, it is the responsibility of individual students to contact their Course Leader to arrange supervision at an appropriate time. This is particularly important in the case of parttime students whose rates of study will vary. The amount of actual supervisory contact time will vary between disciplines but you should expect to receive as a minimum at least 4 hours contact with your supervisor. You are expected to actively engage with your supervisor, agreeing times and attending supervision sessions, remaining in contact and responding to communications. 5.3 Topic approval You should also consult the University s Code of Good Research Practice which can be accessed at: to see whether these guidelines raise any issues for your own research, and discuss them with your supervisor. 5.4 Planning and Timing The dissertation proposal is written in the first semester of study. For full time students who start in Semester A, the dissertation will normally be written in the summer following the second semester of study. For full time students who start in Semester B, the dissertation will be written in the summer proceeding the second semester of study. 5.5 Submission You must submit two copies of your dissertation/ project. One copy will be available for you to collect after marking and the other may be kept by the University, for reference. Both copies should be securely bound so that pages cannot easily be removed, lost or replaced. It is helpful if at least one of the copies is bound with front and rear boards rigid enough to hold the dissertation upright on a shelf, and has a navy blue cover with gold lettering. (Your Postgraduate Office can provide a list of thesis binders. You should expect to pay around per volume). There are three standard deadline dates for submission in every academic year. The dates for 2011/12 are: