Leicester Business School

Transcription

1 Leicester Business School MBA (Global) September 2014 Cohort PROGRAMME HANDBOOK 2014/2015

2 HOW TO USE THIS HANDBOOK This handbook contains information on both academic and management issues relating to postgraduate programmes. It is designed to introduce you to some basic rules and regulations. It will also provide information to help you get the most from your period of study at this University. There are sections which tell you who's who in the Faculty, and where to find help should you need it. The programme section, which follows, contains key information about your subject area. Please make sure you read and become familiar with this handbook as it will help you to manage your studies. Wherever you see this symbol more detailed information about the subject is available on Blackboard or another on-line resource as specified. This handbook is an important source of general information for you, but it should be read in conjunction with: General Regulations and Procedures Affecting Students 2014/15 Taught Postgraduate Programmes, University Regulations 2014/15 Both are found by logging into my.dmu.ac.uk and clicking on the DMU tab. 1

3 CONTENTS HOW TO USE THIS HANDBOOK... 1 SECTION 1 INTRODUCTION AND WELCOME TO DE MONTFORT UNIVERSITY... 4 SECTION 2 PROGRAMME INFORMATION Welcome from the Programme Leader Introduction to the Programme Learning Agreement Masters Level Description People and the Programme Entry Requirements Programme Structure Assessment Requirement Aims & Outcomes SECTION 3 FACULTY SERVICES AND SUPPORT Student Advice Centre (SAC) How to Find Staff Contact Details The Postgraduate Suite Resources Room (HU5.18PG) Syndicate Rooms My DMU/ /Blackboard Personal Development Planning Employability Change of Address Student Records Final Result SECTION 4 UNIVERSITY SERVICES AND SUPPORT Library Student Gateway DSU (De Montfort Students Union) Bookshop DMU Student Charter SECTION 5 PROGRAMME MANAGEMENT Programme Representatives Responding to your Views Attendance Full-time Study Recording of Lectures SECTION 6 ASSESSMENT Introduction Assignment Marking Notification of Provisional Marks Assessment Aims and Outcomes Postgraduate Business and Law Grade Descriptors Assignment Submission Assignment Return Coursework Deadlines Late Submission of Assessments

4 6.10 Extensions Deferrals Special Exam Arrangements SECTION 7 ASSESSMENT REGULATIONS Assessment Requirement Pass Requirement In-Company Project/Dissertation Requirement Reassessment Pass with Distinction Pass with Merit Award of Postgraduate Diploma Award of Postgraduate Certificate Failure to Achieve the Requirements for the MBA (Global) Programme Plagiarism Self Plagiarism SECTION 8 MODULE INFORMATION APPENDIX A RESEARCH ETHICS FORM APPENDIX B WORK PLACEMENT LEARNING AGREEMENT APPENDIX C HEALTH AND SAFETY APPENDIX D GETTING ABOUT APPENDIX E HESA STUDENT COLLECTION NOTICE Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the information is correct at the time of printing, the content may be subject to change. Please retain this handbook; you will need the information for future reference. 3

5 SECTION 1 INTRODUCTION AND WELCOME TO DE MONTFORT UNIVERSITY Professor CILLIAN RYAN DEAN OF FACULTY OF BUSINESS & LAW I should like to take this opportunity to welcome you to De Montfort University and, more specifically, to the Faculty of Business and Law. The Faculty comprises Leicester Business School and Leicester De Montfort Law School and offers a wide range of postgraduate courses, a number of which incorporate professional qualifications. The Faculty is proud of its excellence in teaching and research. Our postgraduate courses are noted for combining academic rigour with practical application. We ensure that courses are relevant to the professional world and our graduates are highly valued by employers in both the private and public sectors. Courses at postgraduate level are both exciting and challenging. They require great diligence from you if you are to achieve a high level of success. The priority of our academic and administrative staff is to help you to produce your best work; to gain as much as possible from your course and to obtain the qualifications you are seeking. Both Leicester De Montfort Law School and Leicester Business School staff will do all they can to make your stay here in Leicester both enjoyable and rewarding. They are easily approachable and will be happy to help at any time. Enjoy your stay here: Leicester is a vibrant, exciting and welcoming city. I hope you will find your time here at DMU not only worthwhile but also an enjoyable learning experience. All good wishes Professor Cillian Ryan Dean of Faculty of Business and Law/Pro Vice-Chancellor 4

6 SECTION 2 PROGRAMME INFORMATION 2.1 Welcome from the Programme Leader I should like to welcome you to De Montfort University and your programme. We are looking forward to working with you in order to achieve the best possible outcome on your behalf. Your programme will be presented within Leicester Business School by a very diverse and experienced lecture team. We are generally recognised as being extremely friendly and supportive to students and are committed to making your studies with us a fruitful experience. However, please do remember that successful studying does rely on your personal commitment and at postgraduate level we are assuming that you will take responsibility for your progress, whilst at the same time offering our full support. Other than the academic staff, you will also deal extensively with administrative staff who are also very approachable and committed to making your time with us enjoyable and successful. Best wishes with your studies. Philip Wilson Programme Leader 2.2 Introduction to the Programme The MBA (Global) programme has been designed to provide a natural progression for graduate students and will be particularly attractive to those wishing to pursue a career in general management, finance, human resource management, entrepreneurship or project management within a global context. Each module provides the student with an advanced and applied understanding of key aspects of international business and aims to produce a Masters graduate who is fully conversant with global business through practical application and leading edge theory. The structure around an international global setting also needs to be emphasised. With many industries becoming increasingly globalised, it is seen as critical for today s business graduates to have the ability to perform and think in an international context. The focus of the modules, and the programme overall, allows the student to move beyond domestic mindsets, consider issues and look for solutions in a truly global context. The programme is, therefore, likely to be challenging, both in terms of academic level and in the way it will critically consider various aspects of global business and management/finance/human resource management/entrepreneurship/corporate social responsibility/ ethics. There is also a heavy emphasis on helping students to develop stronger employability skills, and exposing students to experience real-life case studies and projects. This Programme Handbook will provide you with a full introduction to the MBA (Global) programme and the regulations that govern its operation. It will also tell you how the 5

7 programme is managed and by whom. It will also give details of the programme team including academics and administrators. Before you go on to read about the programme and its organisation, may we take this opportunity to wish you every success with your studies at De Montfort University. 2.3 Learning Agreement The main purpose of the Learning Agreement is to formalise the agreement between the course participant, the course tutors, and the Business School all of whom have an active involvement in the learning process. You have been accepted for this programme because of your aptitude, knowledge and qualifications, and we would like you to get as much out of the learning opportunities presented by this programme as possible. You may find the following points helpful to note at the outset of the programme. Tutors Tutors undertake to present learning material and learning sessions in their specialist areas. They will, depending on the topic area, either relate directly to practical situations and/or invite you to apply relevant concepts and models to your everyday work experience or case study material. All tutors are highly experienced in their respective fields and will use a variety of learning methods. Tutors will assess assignments and return work with feedback comments by the dates agreed if it has been submitted on time. Participants may contact any member of the course team by phone or via . It is part of the Learning Agreement that participants manage this contact appropriately. Tutors will be contactable and will deal with s from participants during normal office hours. They will post general messages on a participant network (e.g. BlackBoard). Tutors will not respond to high volume s for example, draft reports, chapters of reports or final assignments delivered in electronic format. Tutors will respond to, or acknowledge, messages within four working days. If they are going to be out of contact they will place an out of office message on their and inform the Programme Administrator of their absence. Tutors retain the right to terminate protracted and unproductive exchange of e- mails. Participants should endeavour to contact the relevant member of the course team in the first instance. If they receive no reply within four working days they should contact the Programme Administrator who will seek to arrange a firm consultation time with the tutor. 6

8 Participants Participants are expected to attend all learning sessions of the programme. Participants are expected to complete preparatory work and be prepared to actively contribute to learning sessions. Participants undertake to submit assignments by the due dates unless there are extenuating circumstances. If there are exceptional and extenuating circumstances they should contact the Programme Leader as soon as possible. N.B. Pressure of academic work will not normally be accepted as an extenuating circumstance. DMU is strongly committed to this programme and will seek to offer participants maximum support and assistance. However, it must be stressed that at this level of education the emphasis is on self-managed learning. It is the participant's responsibility to adhere to the programme schedule of attendance, assignment submission dates and to accept responsibility for their own actions. 2.4 Masters Level Description The MBA (Global) programme is a programme of study leading to a Masters qualification. Therefore, study at the this level requires participants to demonstrate that they are able to explore a particular topic, problem or field of enquiry, pursue logically and convincingly a line of argument based on such exploration, draw supportable conclusions from their argument, suggest (possibly alternative) practical approaches to the problems they have identified and recognise the practical implications of their proposed actions. They need to be able to convey their exploration, conclusions and proposals effectively: and this calls for good basic English, a clear style and a clear and appropriate structure to the work they submit. The University adheres to the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (FHEQ) and what is called level 5 or M (postgraduate) within the University maps to FHEQ level 7. The FHEQ level descriptors will be shown on your Diploma Supplement and any transcripts which you receive. More information about standards expected in satisfactory work at Masters level can be found by logging on to Blackboard clicking on My Communities, Faculty of Business and Law and Postgraduate Students. 2.5 People and the Programme The Programme Leader (Personal tutor) is Phil Wilson The Programme Administrator, Mrs Kerry Green, is based in the Faculty of Business & Law, Postgraduate Office, Hugh Aston Building. The best means of communication with the Programme Administrator is via . General programme queries should be channelled through the Student Advice Centre on the ground floor in the first instance. Key names are summarised below: Head of Postgraduate Studies and Mr Martyn Kendrick 7

9 Assessment Board Chair Programme Leader (Personal Tutor) Programme Administrator External Examiner Mr Phil Wilson Mrs Kerry Green Ms Anna Soulsby Nottingham University Business School Note for Students: The details provided relating to external examiners appointed to this module/programme are for information only. You must not contact external examiner(s) directly, and particularly with respect to your individual performance in assessments. If you wish to make a complaint or an appeal regarding your assessment you should follow the University s procedures for Academic Appeals, guidance on which is available via the following link: appeals.aspx The postal address for the Faculty of Business & Law is: Faculty of Business & Law Hugh Aston Building De Montfort University The Gateway Leicester LE1 9BH 2.6 Entry Requirements Applicants will normally hold a good Honours degree (minimum lower second class) from a British University (or overseas equivalent) in any subject, or a professional qualification deemed to be of equivalent standing. Alternatively students who have successfully completed De Montfort University s Graduate Certificate in International Business, and attained an overall average of at least 60% in each credit bearing module, may also be admitted onto the programme. We welcome applications from international students. Students whose first language is not English will be expected to have IELTS 6.5 or equivalent. Applicants with lower IELTS scores may be offered a place in conjunction with English Language tuition. Applicants not meeting the above requirements may apply to study the International Incorporated Masters (Business) course offered by DMU Leicester International Pathway College. Following successful completion of the IIM students will be considered for progression on to the Global MBA. 8

10 2.7 Programme Structure Full-time Delivery of Global MBA September (BC289T) Stage Semester One September January Semester Two January May Modules LBPG5013 Enhancing Business, Management & Personal Skills (0 credits) LBPG5009 Executive Business Simulation (0 credits) (Compulsory) ACFI5017 Corporate Performance Management (15 credits) CORP5068 Critical Management in a Global Context (15 credits) LBPG5016 Enhancing Research Skills (0 credits) CORP5067 Business Creation and Innovation and CORP5065 Work/Community Reflective Live Case Study (15 credits) or LBPG5018 Research Methodology (15 credits) N.B. It is anticipated that students will normally take CORP5065 as they will be undertaking an In-company Project in Semester 3. CORP5064 Managing Business Projects & Processes (15 credits) CORP5039 International Strategic Management, Markets, and Resources (15 credits) plus two electives from: ACFI5021 International Finance ACFI5056 Global Supply Chain Management CORP5042 Creative Action in International Organisations CORP5047 International Trade Theory and Practice CORP5069 People Management and Organisations HRMG5059 International HRM MARK5054 International Marketing All (15 credits) However, where it is agreed, by exception, at end of semester 1 that a student will undertake a dissertation in Semester 3, they should take LBPG5018 instead. Semester Three LBPG5002 In-company Project (60 credits) or (by exception) LBPG5017 Dissertation (60 credits) Note: Students will be required to submit their choice of electives by the end of Wednesday in week 9 (semester one). 9

11 2.7.1 Assessment Requirement The assessment for the MBA (Global) programme will comprise of 8 modules (5 core modules and 3 elective modules. Each module being worth 15 credits) and a 60 credit work based project or dissertation founded on a research project. The method of assessment for each module is set out at the end of this Programme Handbook, within each syllabus Aims & Outcomes The subject specific learning outcomes of the programme include the following: To provide students with a critical understanding of a wide range of issues relating to study of Business and Management within a global context; To develop the analytical, critical communication and presentational skills of students to a level that is appropriate to postgraduate study in the context of their core and optional modules, and to become familiar with the central problems of research in these areas; To enable students to develop appropriate skills in research and research design both in the context of the taught elements of the programme and through the completion of an In-company Project or dissertation; To enable students to develop specialist knowledge in specific areas relating to the broad themes of the programme within a global context; To enhance students transferable skills and, thereby, their potential for progressing in their chosen field of employment. Within the broad framework of organisations, - it is expected that graduates will gain knowledge and develop understanding in the following areas: Markets - the development and operation of markets for resources, goods and services Customers - customer expectations, service and orientation Finance - the sources, uses and management of finance; the use of accounting and other information systems for managerial applications People - the management and development of people within organisations Operations - the management of resources and operations; information systems; the development, management and exploitation of information systems and their impact upon organisations Communication and information technology (CIT) - comprehension and use of relevant CIT for application in business and management 10

12 Business policy and strategy - the development of appropriate policies and strategies within a changing environment, to meet stakeholder interests Other contemporary management issues it is important that students are introduced to a broad range of emerging and contemporary management issues such as sustainability, globalisation, corporate social responsibility, diversity, business innovation, culture, risk, creativity, enterprise development, knowledge management and project management within a global context. This is not a comprehensive list, and students will be exposed to a wider range of issues as appropriate. 11

13 SECTION 3 FACULTY SERVICES AND SUPPORT 3.1 Student Advice Centre (SAC) Where are we and what do we do? The Student Advice Centre is located on the ground floor of the Hugh Aston building (0.37) next to the Café. The primary function of the Centre is to provide advice on a wide range of student issues as well as take in coursework. We hold leaflets detailing University procedures and protocols in respect of all areas as well as copies of the University Regulations and all of the standard forms. We are able to give you contact numbers, addresses and surgery hours of all academic members of staff. We also hold a small reference library of past dissertations which are available for all masters programme. The process for borrowing dissertations, together with an index of titles available can be found by logging on to Blackboard, clicking on My Communities, Faculty of Business & Law and Postgraduate Students. In short we should be your first port of call if you require any help or advice; if we are not able to help you we will know who can! Although we do not offer counselling we do have a separate room available should your problem be of a private or confidential nature. Opening hours: Monday Friday 8.50am 4.45pm Please note that the deadline for handing in coursework at the Student Advice Centre is 1.30pm. 3.2 How to Find Staff Contact Details There are two main ways to find contact details for academic and support staff (and faculty departments or university departments): Contact the Faculty Student Advice Centre (the SAC), located on the Ground Floor of the Hugh Aston Building (next to the Café entrance) Telephone: (0116) studentadvicecentre@dmu.ac.uk The SAC can check timetables for staff and provide you with their surgery hours, addresses, room numbers, direct telephone numbers, as well as providing one to one support. Call the main University Telephone number:

14 3.3 The Postgraduate Suite Postgraduate and professional programmes from both the Law School and the Business School are accommodated primarily in a dedicated area within the Hugh Aston building a suite of rooms on the 4 th and 5 th floors can be entered by a separate staircase/lift on the Oxford Street side of the building as well as the other main entrances. For larger classes, use is also made of the spacious lecture theatres housed on the floors below the suite. The Postgraduate Suite is open from 9 am 9 pm during term time and 9 am 7 pm during the vacation. The suite is not open at weekends. Students wishing to use IT facilities at the weekends can use the Kimberlin Library which has both fixed PCs and wireless access. Please check on the library website for more information: Resources Room (HU5.18PG) The Resources Room has 35 PCs for casual use all day long. There is one black and white and one colour printer. Students will be issued with a personal log on during enrolment week to allow them to use these facilities. All formal lab based classes will take place in one of the Faculty s four computer labs, all of which can be found on the second floor. 3.5 Syndicate Rooms The suite has three small syndicate rooms (HU5.15PG, HU5.16PG & HU5.17PG) which are available to staff and students for activities such as meetings, group work, interviews etc. Bookings should be made on the sheets which are posted on the doors to each room. As this is a self-managed resource, you are asked to respect the bookings system, vacating promptly at the end of your booked slot. 3.6 My DMU/ /Blackboard MyDMU is your personalised portal to the university information and systems. It can be accessed via any computer which has an internet connection my.dmu.ac.uk. MyDMU allows you to view news about the university, your personal information (e.g. name, date-ofbirth and address) that the university currently holds, the modules that you are enrolled on and, at certain times of the year, your assessment results. Using your university login details you can also log in to MyDMU to access the following: Your University Account The university will automatically create an account for you. It is expected that you check your DMU student account daily for urgent issues. Please note that all from the university will be sent to your official DMU student address. We are not able to use personal accounts. You will be provided with your timetable at the beginning of each semester, and details of other scheduled events such as examinations, guest lectures and assessment deadlines will 13

15 be provided by . It is your responsibility to keep yourself informed of any examinations or assignment dates, changes to class times or location, scheduled meetings, mentor sessions and seminars/talks by checking your regularly. Blackboard Blackboard is the university s Virtual Learning Environment. You will use Blackboard as an integral part of the teaching and learning experience throughout your time at DMU. Almost all of your modules will have a Blackboard site which Module Leaders will use to post information to support formal, face-to-face teaching. You will also submit work through Turnitin (see section 6.6) via the specific module Blackboard sites. Please be aware that when you complete your course and are no longer enrolled as a student at DMU you will not be able to access MyDMU, Blackboard, DMU student and file storage. For help, support or more information about our IT systems please visit Personal tutor scheme DMU provides all of its postgraduate students with a personal tutor who can be contacted regarding any general academic matter or personal concerns relating to such matters as adjustment to life at DMU. For postgraduate students, your personal tutor is often also your programme leader. New students will have the opportunity to meet with their personal tutor during the first three weeks of study, either individually or within a group. The initial role of the tutor is to help you make a smooth transition to university life. They, along with the Student Advice Centre, will be your port of call if you have any kind of problem or confusion. Your programme leader/personal tutor may also be the tutor you approach for an academic reference at the end of your course. Each personal tutor will: 1. Provide reliable and consistent advice and guidance 2. Provide regular opportunities for feedback on general academic progress and action planning for students in relation to their academic progress 3. Meet with new students within the first three weeks of the commencement of their studies and monitor their attendance so that the faculty can encourage participation 4. Be proactive in arranging meetings with students 5. Support personal development planning (PDP) by promoting reflective learning and ensuring students can review their own progress against action plans 6. Make systematic use of information about students' overall progress, including utilising attendance records and academic performance profiles 7. Explain the options available regarding progression, as appropriate, including general advice on module choice 14

16 8. Know when it is appropriate to refer the student to another individual or service for specialist support or guidance 9. Advise students on the importance of career planning 10. Operate the faculty system and keep records in accordance with published faculty protocols 11. Liaise with your module tutors to identify any programme related issues highlighted in tutorials having regard for confidentiality in relation to individual tutees. 3.7 Personal Development Planning The University recognises the positive impact of Personal Development Planning (PDP) on students learning, achievement and enhanced employment prospects. Commitment to, and integration of PDP, will be a feature of the MBA Global programme. Students will be introduced to the process in semester one and the process will culminate in the development of a reflective statement to be included in the final dissertation. 3.8 Employability At De Montfort University employability is seen to be: A set of achievements skills, understanding and personal attributes that makes graduates more likely to gain employment and be successful in their chosen occupations which benefit themselves, the workforce, the community and the economy. The MBA Global programme will seek to nurture the development of these skills and achievements through the embedding of key skills and the identification of transferable skills. Faculty-based Careers and Employability Team We have a graduate careers team based in the faculty to: deliver employability and careers sessions within some programmes and offer workshops outside of your timetable promote opportunities that will give you the skills employers want organise visits by a range of graduate employers offer 1:1 appointments including: career options, finding temporary or graduate jobs, CV and application form reviews, mock interviews, other employer selection methods. Students undertaking an in-company project are strongly encouraged to book an appointment We have a Careers Hub of information for students seeking work experience and graduatelevel employment. It is located near the Student Advice Centre and along the adjacent corridor. An additional PG-specific information board is located in the PG suite. A wide range of careers resources are available online 24/7 via our one-stop employability portal, MyGateway at: Careers appointments in the faculty and centrally in the Student Gateway (see section 4.2) can be booked online via MyGateway. Log on using your student P number to find information on how to book. Information on how to book is also available by logging into Blackboard clicking on My Communities, Faculty of Business and Law and then clicking Careers and Employability. 15

17 3.9 Change of Address In order to ensure that students can be contacted promptly as necessary, changes in term time and home addresses, telephone numbers or addresses should be submitted via MyDMU or to the Student Advice Centre Student Records Student files will be kept electronically on the University s Student Records system. In addition, the Faculty will also retain the files, including application forms and final results for six years after completion of study. Thereafter, only a copy of the results will be retained Final Result Once you have completed the programme you will be issued with a Diploma Supplement showing your results, endorsed with a secure hologram. Should you require any further copies of this Diploma Supplement, there will be a fee charged prior to dealing with your request. The fee at the time of writing is 20 per copy. 16

18 SECTION 4 UNIVERSITY SERVICES AND SUPPORT 4.1 Library The Directorate of Library and Learning Services comprises two libraries and registered De Montfort University staff and students may access the services and facilities in both of these. The libraries consist of the main Kimberlin Library (Mill Lane) and the Law Library in the Hugh Aston building. The Kimberlin Library is the largest library, offering over 1,200 study spaces and a variety of learning environments - silent, group and quiet discussion. As well as loaning books the library holds numerous other resources such as journals, DVDs, and IT suite etc. During Induction and Enrolment Week all students will have a library induction scheduled to introduce these resources. During this time you will have a chance to meet library staff and ask questions. Library and Learning Services offer two Learning Zones, on the Ground Floor of the Kimberlin Library and within Eric Wood as well as the Greenhouse learning space on Richmond Street. These are flexible learning spaces designed to facilitate collaborative working. A number of library resources such as book reservations, e-journals, the library catalogue, subject databases etc can be accessed on-line from any computer with internet access by visiting: library.dmu.ac.uk. The library opening hours are also available here. There is also a link to this site on the front page of MyDMU. More information about the library can also be found by logging on to Blackboard clicking on My Communities, Faculty of Business and Law and Postgraduate Students. The Centre for Learning and Study Support (CLaSS), based in the Kimberlin Library, is available for all students and offers workshops, tutorials and on-line resources: One-to-one or small group tutorials. Book 30 mins to discuss strategies to develop your writing or study skills. Assignment drop-in Wednesdays during term time 3 4. Just come along to the Learning Development Zone on the ground floor of the Kimberlin Library. E-tutorials for distance learning students only classetutorials@dmu.ac.uk Study skills and writing development workshops. Work with your study skills and academic writing on a diverse range of topics. More information and booking information is available at Check the site regularly. New workshops are always being added. Online guides and resources 17

19 Maths Learning Centre The Maths Learning Centre is here to offer extra help with Maths and statistics in the Kimberlin Library, room 2.10 on the top floor. These include: Drop-in sessions weekdays term time and exam time 12:30-2:30. We cater for individual needs at all levels. Just come along. Statistics advice for Dissertations. A limited number of 50 minute tutorials available jrobertson@dmu.ac.uk. GSCE workshops jrobertson@dmu.ac.uk for information. Limited places. 4.2 Student Gateway Student Gateway dmu.ac.uk/studentgateway The Student Gateway, Ground Floor, Gateway House is an accessible and welcoming integrated reception for all non-academic student enquiries including money and welfare, counselling and well-being, ordering and collecting your student ID card, Council Tax Exemption Certificate or bank letter: Opening Hours Monday Friday: 9 am to 5 pm Please note that opening times may vary so please studentgateway@dmu.ac.uk for details if you are planning to visit outside the core hours of The details of the teams located in the Student Gateway, and an outline of the services they offer are given below. Some services and 1:1 appointments with trained and professional advisors are drop-in with no need to book. Others are bookable 24/7 via our online portal MyGateway: Student Finance and Welfare dmu.ac.uk/studentfinance The Student Finance and Welfare team offers: Information, advice and guidance on student funding, including: tuition fees, scholarships and bursaries Liaison with Student Finance England / Student Loans Company Administration of the student funding processes Operation of the Access to Learning Fund (ALF) Advice on budgeting and money management Designated contacts for care leavers and estranged young people. T: E: sfw@dmu.ac.uk The Cashier s Office The Cashier s Office offers the following services: Enquiries relating to any charges, amends to accounts and possible refunds Making Payments for tuition and accommodation fees, sundry items such as replacement ID cards and field trips etc. Information on the University s payment policy and payment options 18

20 Disability Advice and Support dmu.ac.uk/disability The Disability Advice and Support (DAS) team works with applicants and current students with a wide range of physical and sensory disabilities, medical conditions and Specific Learning Differences (SpLD). DAS provides help for students to manage the effects of their disability on their studies and ensures that disabled students know about the support available and how to access it, including the Government s Disabled Students Allowances (DSAs). T: E: disability@dmu.ac.uk Mental Health Inclusion Team dmu.ac.uk/mentalhealth The Mental Health Inclusion team work with students to offer professional advice and support in relation to mental health difficulties. The team are able to assess the student s needs and offer the appropriate intervention. This may include practical advice on how to manage mental health difficulties, short term interventions, recommendations for adjustments under the Equality Act and assistance in applying for the Disabled Student Allowance (DSA) where longer term support may be required. The overall aim is to assist students to reach their full potential at university, improve their employment prospects, and promote emotional wellbeing. T: E: mentalhealthadvice@dmu.ac.uk Counselling and Wellbeing dmu.ac.uk/counselling Counselling develops insight, helps to put effective life strategies in place and builds personal resources and resilience. It brings about change to help wellbeing, functioning and study effectiveness. Life coaching (face to face or exchange) Enhances potential and develops life and employability skills. Life coaching can help you develop ways of being more assertive, confident, organised and positive. Self help Resources and information to help your wellbeing for example e books, videos, information and useful websites. T: E: counselling@dmu.ac.uk International Student Support dmu.ac.uk/international The International Student Support team provides ongoing specialist support, including advice and guidance on issues such as working in the UK and opening a bank account, as well as lots of general information about living and studying in Leicester. T: E: Internationalsupport@dmu.ac.uk 19

21 Advice and assistance on immigration issues is provided by the Student Union s Welfare and Education Team who are based on the first floor of the Campus Centre building. The team can also assist you in applying to extend your student visa. Call in for an appointment or telephone (0116) Careers and Employability dmu.ac.uk/careers Our Careers and Employability team offers information, advice and guidance on managing your career before, during and after your course. See section 3 for details of the facultybased support. 1:1 careers appointments are offered in faculty and centrally via MyGateway. MyGateway also provides: Online jobs board including part-time jobs, internships and graduate jobs Online booking to attend events such as employer visits, employability workshops, Psychometric testing workshops and much more. A wide range of resources, access to FAQs and the option to submit a career query online If you have any queries about accessing MyGateway: T: E: careers@dmu.ac.uk The Careers and Employability team deliver a wide range of initiatives to provide our students with the experience and skills for the workplace including: Frontrunners dmu.ac.uk/frontrunners Paid work experience at DMU to enhance your employability skills. NB The application deadlines are very soon after you start so look out for the publicity! Campus Enterprise Opportunities (CEO) dmu.ac.uk/ceo Support to start up your own business. Regular drop-ins are held in the faculty. Unitemps dmu.ac.uk/unitemps A DMU based recruitment service which can help you find part-time work on campus to fit around your studies. Academic Support Office For information and guidance relating to student complaints, academic appeals, academic offences and deferrals please refer to - dmu.ac.uk/aso. 4.3 DSU (De Montfort Students Union) DSU (De Montfort Students Union) is based in the Campus Centre. DSU is a student led and student focused organisation. It aims to represent, inspire and involve its members to enhance the University experience. DSU has a huge number of societies and sports teams for you to get involved in during your time at university. 20

22 DSU Volunteering offers a wide range of volunteering opportunities in the community. It's a great way to gain work experience, give something back to the local community, and increase your employability skills to prospective employers. Visit demontfortstudents.com for more information about events and support available through DSU. De Montfort Students' Union First Floor, The Campus Centre, Mill Lane Leicester LE2 7DR Bookshop The university bookshop is based on the ground floor of the Hugh Aston Building. It is open from 9.00am until 5.00pm each weekday and stocks core texts and some of the other books on your reading lists (available from module leaders at the beginning of term). 4.5 DMU Student Charter The aim of this Charter is to achieve continuous improvement in teaching and learning in an environment where staff and students work together to maximise learning opportunities. The Charter sets out the rights and responsibilities of staff and students and complements the DMU Student Charter. In order to be effective it is important that everyone reads the Charter carefully and refers to it throughout the programme of study. Please read the full version of the Charter It should be read in conjunction with the section on Student Rights and Responsibilities in The University Handbook for Students, ASK and any additional protocols that are also adopted by relevant Programme Assessment Boards. 21

23 SECTION 5 PROGRAMME MANAGEMENT Assessment Boards these meet three times a year in March, June and November, to consider student results and assess whether they meet the university and programme regulations allowing them to progress to the next part of their studies or to achieve their final award. Once the Board has met, results are deemed to have been approved or ratified. They are then released to students on a specified date via MyDMU and by post. Management Boards - these also meet three times a year to discuss any issues that affect the programme and its modules e.g. student performance overall on a module or programme, changes of curriculum or assessment, new programme proposals etc. More information on programme boards can be found in the chapter on Scheme Management in the Taught Postgraduate Programmes, University Regulations which is found by logging into MyDMU and clicking on the DMU tab. 5.1 Programme Representatives Programme Student Representatives are chosen by the group and are an independent link between students and programme tutors. Representatives attend Management Board meetings where items of specific interest to students may be raised, and also meet with the Programme Leader prior to the Board meeting. The Students Union produce an information booklet for Student Representatives. Nominated representatives will also be invited to attend a short familiarity session at the beginning of the programme. 5.2 Responding to your Views The University values student input and welcomes your views on your experience of studying at De Montfort. There are a number of different ways of making your views known and offering constructive feedback on your programmes. Some of these are identified below and will be the most effective way of making sure your voice is heard and that, where necessary, action is taken. The formal channels for offering feedback are: Through student representation on your Programme Board and University committees Completing feedback questionnaires which evaluate your programme and modules Answering student surveys about central facilities, such as the Library There are also informal ways of making your views known. For example, Discussions with your Programme Leader and subject tutors Contacting the Students Union Getting in touch with your Programme Administrator We want to know what you think about De Montfort University and your programme. We value your feedback because listening to your views is an important way to make things even better. Please make use of the formal and informal ways of making your views known it will be time well spent. 22

24 5.3 Attendance The full-time Masters degree is a programme requiring a high level of motivation and input by students. With its intensity and pace of academic study, and the importance of group interaction and debate to enrich the programme, full attendance at all classes and study sessions is regarded by the programme team as essential if students wish to maximise their potential. It is expected that students will attend all classes/module activities. In the case of absence due to illness or any other reason, students should inform their module tutor or Programme Administrator. Registers of attendance will be taken at every session and patterns of attendance will be monitored very closely. Any unauthorised absences will be followed up and any students deemed not to be meeting attendance expectations will be called to an interview. Students who continue to absent themselves from classes may be withdrawn from the programme. 5.4 Full-time Study Students on full-time programmes of study are expected to remain at the University for the duration of their month programme of study. Students are strongly discouraged from returning overseas during this time, but should they have to do so, they must first obtain permission from their Programme Leader and the Head of Graduate Studies by completing an Absence Request form available from the Student Advice Centre. They will be asked to specify the exact dates of absence on this form. Students choosing to return overseas must understand that they do so at their own risk (in terms of being able to re-enter the country) and that any extension requests resulting from absence abroad will not be viewed favourably. 5.5 Recording of Lectures There is no objection to students using recording equipment to record lectures where this is part of the arrangements between the student and the University relating to special provision. Students with such an arrangement should identify themselves to the lecturer. Students without such an arrangement formally in place may only record the lecture with the express permission of the lecturer. However, any such recordings may only be used for personal study and may not in any manner be shared with other students, reproduced, copied, transcribed, broadcast, placed on the internet or personal webpages, or otherwise exploited in any form. Specifically the lecturer, in association with the University, asserts the ownership of performance rights and copyright in all such recordings. Any breach of these rules is classed as an infringement of University regulations and amounts to a serious academic offence. As such, it may result in formal proceedings being taken and the student being excluded; such action does not prevent civil action being taken to recover any losses caused to the owners of the performance rights and copyright. 23

25 SECTION 6 ASSESSMENT 6.1 Introduction The assessment of students work will be undertaken by a Programme Board whose constitution and responsibilities are in accordance with those approved by the University. The current Taught Postgraduate Programmes Regulations will also apply in all instances where they are not superseded by the programme regulations in this Handbook. All programme work and examination marking will be the responsibility of internal examiners appointed by the Board and will normally be module tutors. Log into my.dmu.ac.uk and click on the DMU tab to find the Taught Postgraduate Programmes Regulations. Assessment will be via a number of different methods and further details can be found in each module outline. All assessed work may be made available to External Examiners. The Programme Board (Assessment) will meet three times during the year, in March, June and November. 6.2 Assignment Marking Assignments will be marked by the module tutor/leader and a sample moderated by another lecturer. Samples will then be sent to the relevant external examiner for confirmation. 6.3 Notification of Provisional Marks All marks are provisional until confirmed by moderation and approved by the Assessment Board. 6.4 Assessment Aims and Outcomes The assessment procedures are intended to achieve a number of objectives. These are: a. To provide continuous feedback to both the participants and the tutors regarding progress at each stage of the course and to provide information for counselling where needed. b. To check that the required academic standards are being maintained. c. To provide a mix of assessment methods by which the participants can demonstrate their understanding of the issues presented. d. To provide information to the examiners on which the decision can be made regarding the award of the MBA (Global) 24

26 6.5 Postgraduate Business and Law Grade Descriptors Assessment on all modules will operate to the generic marking criteria for different types of assessment. The grade descriptors can also be accessed by logging on to Blackboard clicking on My Communities, Faculty of Business and Law and Postgraduate Students. 6.6 Assignment Submission Coursework should be handed in at the STUDENT ADVICE CENTRE on the ground floor of the Hugh Aston building, which is open to students from 9 am to 4.45 pm, Monday to Friday. Students are asked to note that the deadline for submission of all coursework (hard copy and Turnitin copy) is 1.30pm on the submission date.. Any work submitted after 1.30pm will be marked as late. Students must submit a printed version of each piece of coursework, and submit an electronic copy to Blackboard. The electronic copy will not be marked, but used for checking for possible plagiarism. Please note that the date of receipt of the hard copy coursework is taken as the submission date and NOT the date submitted via Turnitin. Instructions for submitting work via Turnitin and a Guide to Interpreting your Turnitnin Report can be found by logging on to Blackboard clicking on My Communities, Faculty of Business and Law and Postgraduate Students. Students must complete a Coursework Declaration & Receipt Form (available from the Student Advice Centre) for each piece of work submitted. This will be date stamped and a copy returned to you as a receipt. Students should keep their receipt as proof of submission and always keep a second copy of each assignment submitted. Students are requested not to ring-bind assignments or staple assignments (unless advised otherwise in their assignment brief) and to note that the preferred font and size is Arial 11. Once a piece of work has been handed in it will not be possible for students to ask for it back in order to make modifications. Full-time students should note that the post box next to the Student Advice Centre is for the use of PART-TIME students only. Work from full-time students will not be accepted by this method of submission. 6.7 Assignment Return When marked assignments are ready for return, you will receive an from the Module Leader advising of the time, date and location for the hand back of work. Please ensure that you bring your Student ID card with you when collecting work, as failure to do so will result in our not being able to release work back to you. 25