We know Africa. We train its leaders. ACCREDITED

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1 ACCREDITED MBA 2015 We know Africa. We train its leaders.

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3 C O N T E N T S 01 Welcome to USB It started with 13 students in Today, five decades later, the University of Stellenbosch Business School has three international accreditations and is recognised as a leading school by the global business school community and other stakeholders. MBA 02 Messages 04 Why study at USB? 06 Celebrating a 50-year legacy 08 School with a view PHASE 1 PHASE 2 IMPORTANT: 2015 is the last year to enrol with a three-year degree PHASE 3 10 What can I do 12 The MBA with a USB MBA? programme 17 Programme contents 20 What else do I need to know? Apply in 4 steps Fees 36% Age 24% 40% 21 How to apply 22 Fees and financing 23 What do USB alumni say? 25 More about USB and its students

4 02 messages Messages From the Rector and Vice-Chancellor Prof Russel Botman Rector and Vice-Chancellor Stellenbosch University As part of the more than century-old Stellenbosch University, the University of Stellenbosch Business School (USB) has been building its proud reputation since The School has succeeded in establishing itself as one of the top MBA providers in South Africa, while it has also earned recognition in the international business school fraternity, interacting with over 80 schools across all the continents. The School enjoys the status of AACSB, EQUIS and AMBA international accreditations reserved for only a few schools in the world. Nationally, USB s MBA is accredited by the South African Council on Higher Education, and in Africa by the Association of African Business Schools (AABS). It consistently ranks among the top business schools in various listings and rankings in South Africa and in Africa. The University prides itself on the ever-widening global status that its Business School has earned in the management education arena. Over recent years the School has ensconced itself as a premier producer of managers and leaders for this country, the African continent and the world. This ties in with the vision of Stellenbosch University to commit itself to an outward-oriented role in South Africa, Africa as a whole, and also globally. It is no surprise that USB has become a popular choice of local and foreign students.

5 messages 03 From the Programme Head Dr Marlize Terblanche-Smit Head: MBA Programme University of Stellenbosch Business School Over the past five decades, USB has continuously improved its MBA programme to meet complex challenges in the South African, African and global business environment. The MBA degree is therefore a relevant and solid investment in an individual s future. One of the greatest benefits of doing an MBA is that participants can immediately start implementing in their work environments what they have learnt in class. Management tools, techniques and hard skills such as strategic management, economics, finance and marketing are important core competencies of the MBA graduate. However, the soft skills acquired on the programme are especially valued by employers and students. Soft skills such as leadership and communication skills, adaptability, flexibility and self-awareness can be applied across a myriad of professional environments, and are in high demand in the business environment. One of the key differentiating factors of USB s MBA is the Module which develops leaders as individuals with their own authentic leadership styles. Some electives are presented by international faculty. The International Study Module at partner business schools of USB overseas offers a global perspective that supports the other elements of the MBA programme. The collaborative approach to learning through group work, the analysis of case studies, networking and individual work support the analysis of business problems and the development of solutions. USB s MBA provides a transformative experience, with new and different viewpoints on current and future business challenges. This enhances the MBA graduate s relevance in the business environment.

6 04 Leading Business School Why study at usb? development Three international accreditations The USB MBA comes with quality guarantees in the form of AACSB, EQUIS and AMBA accreditation. USB was the first school from an African university to hold all three international accreditations for business schools. USB believes leaders are grown, not born. Therefore, each student follows an individualised leadership development journey, which spans the entire MBA, to cultivate leadership competencies on personal, group, organisational and societal level. The Module is delivered via assessment questionnaires, a class programme (45 contact sessions), case studies and dialogues. The output required from students includes tests, journaling, reflective essays and group assignments. USB s multi-method approach to leadership development makes leadership development and personal development go hand in hand. Collaborative learning International participation The school s international participation is demonstrated by its three international accreditations, its international student body, visiting international faculty, the compulsory MBA International Study Module, its presence on the African continent, and cooperation agreements with over 80 business schools on all continents. African-focused expertise USB has positioned itself as the knowledge partner of the world in Africa, and of Africa in the world. In particular, the school has acquired African-focused areas of expertise in development finance, corporate governance, small business development, business at the base of the income pyramid, dispute settlement, leadership, management coaching, futures research, diversity management, sustainability management, ICT and innovation for Africa, economics for emerging countries, the use of scenarios to develop alternative futures, and innovative business models. Collaborative learning in various forms is a key feature of the USB MBA. Each student brings unique knowledge and management experience to the table. Students come from all over South Africa, Africa and the world, and they come with different undergraduate qualifications, industry experience and cultural backgrounds. This diversity enables them to work with different perspectives.

7 Leading Business School 05 International Study Module All students need to do the compulsory MBA International Study Module to enhance their international exposure. Each tour consists of studies at a foreign business school and a visit to global companies. Students can choose from study modules in countries such as France, China, India, Turkey, Italy, The Netherlands, Belgium, Russia, USA and Canada. Thought leadership and research USB creates thought leadership through its research centres, academic discus sions, academic conferences and seminars, a research fellowship programme, the research undertaken by its faculty members and students, and its partnerships with business and other academic institutions. The school shares its research with its alumni and business leaders on its website (USB ThoughtPrint website), at business talks, debates and workshops, and in its regular magazine, academic journals and practitioner publications. Business connections USB s close cooperation with industry ensures an academic offering aligned with the needs of the world of work. Areas of alliance and collaboration include rep resentation by the local and international business community on the USB advisory board, and partnerships between USB and industry (e.g. with USB s Small Business Academy). It also includes the funding of students and the involvement of alumni in the school s activities (e.g. as mentors and as interviewers of new students). Career development USB s Careers Office prepares students for meaningful career paths. Services to students include career planning, career development, exposure to the job market, preparation for job interviews, career-related resources and regular on-campus presentations by companies. Social engagement USB engages with social issues in its research agenda, academic programmes and as part of its stakeholder engagement programme. The school s main social initiatives are its Small Business Academy, its subsidised Management Programme for Non-profit Organisations and its bursary scheme. All MBA students are exposed to social engagement projects. Networking On your MBA journey, you will collaborate with people from a wide range of cultures and countries. You will walk the road of professional and personal development with them. This will broaden your views and add depth to your learning experience. During all of this, you will build valuable networks of business contacts and friendships that will last you a lifetime. Upon graduation, you become part of the USB Alumni Association with its members, offering access to continued learning, networking and more.

8 06 USB 50 CELEBRATING A 50-YEAR LEGACY It all started with one small MBA class in This year, the University of Stellenbosch Business School is celebrating its 50th year of providing quality education which includes its triple accredited MBA to people from all over South Africa, other African countries and beyond. USB s heritage has been passed down from USB s mother institution, Stellenbosch University, which is more than a hundred years old. The heritage has also been built upon and passed on by the people associated with USB its faculty members, alumni, students, staff, business associates and other stakeholders. This heritage gives us a place to belong. The decade of firsts 1964: The first 13 Part-time MBA students commence with their studies at USB. 1966: The first 8 MBA degrees are awarded. 1967: Students can enrol for a Fulltime or Part-time MBA. 1974: Student numbers total 90. The decade of growth 1979: USB now has 171 MBA and 21 DBA students. Permanent staff consists of 4 professors and 4 senior lecturers. 1981: The current premises in Bellville are acquired. 1982: The first students register for the Modular MBA. The first Belgian MBA exchange students arrive. The decade of new beginnings 1986: The Department of Business Management and Administration relocates to the Bellville Park Campus. 1989: MBA student numbers reach : USB Alumni Club (now USB Alumni Association) establishes its Future Fund to support deserving students. 1992: The name of the school changes to the University of Stellenbosch Business School or USB for short. The decade of accreditation 1996: An English-medium Modular MBA is introduced. 1997: To accommodate international students, the Full-time MBA is presented in English. 1998: A group of USB MBA students visit two European business schools for the first time. 2001: USB receives EQUIS international accreditation from the EFMD. 2002: USB receives international accreditation from AMBA. 2004: The Council on Higher Education in South Africa fully accredits the USB MBA. Spotlight on 50 years This heritage gives us a place to belong

9 USB The decade of expansion and excellence 2006: USB becomes the first member of the European doctoral association EDAMBA from outside Europe. Three black MBA students Kagisho Mahura, Pambili Booi and Fortune Mgwenya beat all contenders (28 teams) at the National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA) Student Case-writing Competition sponsored by DaimlerChrysler in the USA. USB officially establishes a presence in West Africa (Lagos, Nigeria) by appointing a representative in this region to offer prospective and current students and alumni local support. 2008: USB produces a finalist, Kagisho Mahura, in AMBA s global MBA Student of the Year Competition. 2009: USB introduces a Modular MBA with classes starting in June. The USB officially establishes a presence in East Africa (Nairobi, Kenya) by appointing a representative in this region to offer prospective and current students and alumni local support. The USB Alumni Association launches a Lagos-based branch in West Africa. 2010: USB has the largest intake of Afrikaans Modular MBA students (59 students) in many years. MBA alumnus Will Coetsee is a finalist in AMBA s global MBA Student of the Year Competition. 2011: An International Study Module at an overseas partner business school becomes a compulsory part of the USB MBA. USB is ranked among the top three schools in the Africa and Middle East region in the QS Global 200 Business Schools Report. 2012: USB obtains AACSB accreditation. This makes USB the first business school from an African university to be awarded the Triple Crown of international accreditations AACSB, EQUIS and AMBA. MBA alumnus Gretchen Arangies is chosen as winner of AMBA s 2012 Global AMBAssador Challenge. 2013: USB is named the No 1 business school in South Africa by PMR.africa for the sixth time in 11 years. USB is ranked as one of the Top 3 schools in Africa by Eduniversal for the sixth consecutive year. MBA alumnus Brigitte Roediger is chosen as joint winner of AMBA s 2013 Global AMBAssador Challenge. 2014: USB celebrates its 50th anniversary. The number of MBA students enrolled for the year is 631 and the total number of students enrolled is MBA alumnus Xolani Nocanda becomes USB s third Global ambassador for AMBA The first 13 Part-time MBA students commence with their studies at USB. The current premises in Bellville are acquired. To accommodate international students, the Full-time MBA is presented in English. USB receives EQUIS international accreditation from the EFMD. USB receives international accreditation from AMBA. USB obtains AACSB accreditation and becames the first business school from an African university to be awarded the Triple Crown. USB celebrates its 50th anniversary.

10 08 Location SCHOOL WITH A VIEW Cape Town as top destination As South Africa s second main economic centre, Cape Town offers a world of possibilities for business people. The city has a thriving service-based metropolitan economy where growth is often driven by innovation. The city is the World Design Capital for In 2012, Table Mountain officially became one of the new seven wonders of nature. South Africa has the longest wine route in the world some 800 km in length Cape Town is also located in a biodiversity hotspot called the Cape Floral Kingdom which has plant species, 70% of which are not found anywhere else in the world.

11 Location 09 Central location The hilltop campus of USB is situated in the ever-expanding Tyger Valley business district, which is about halfway between the Cape Town CBD and Stellenbosch, home of USB s mother institution, Stellenbosch University. The campus is close to main access routes, the Cape Town International Airport, shopping malls, sports facilities, entertainment and first-class medical facilities. Also within easy reach are attractions such as the V&A Waterfront, Cape Point, Table Mountain (a World Heritage site), Robben Island, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens and the neighbouring Boland area with its cultural heritage, scenic beauty and world-famous winelands.

12 10 Looking ahead What can I do with a USB MBA? Manage at board level The USB MBA will give you an astute understanding of business, enabling you to take positions up to board level in any industry. You will know how to implement strategies, solve complex problems, operate in a global environment and understand the role of business in society. You will also be able to interpret financial statements, assess operational policies and draw up marketing plans. Lead with confidence You will learn to lead on different levels. The unique Module, which spans the entire MBA, covers personal leadership, group leadership, organisa tional leadership and societal leadership. USB s multi-method and reflective approach to leadership development will enable you to discover your specific leadership strengths and ensure that you become the best leader that you can be. Think critically Building and holding an argument are competencies that will help to future-proof your career. Critical thinking skills will equip you with the ability to think well and argue soundly. This, combined with analytical and strategic skills, will help you to recognise economic, social and other patterns, and to create robust action plans to respond to the unexpected. Function globally The USB MBA curriculum is designed to develop you as a leader who can function in any position, anywhere in the world. You will attend an International Module at a foreign business school and touch base with global companies. You will meet international lecturers in class. USB s partnership agreements with over 80 of the world s top business schools hold the potential of exchange studies, engagement and networking. Build business connections You will be exposed to the business industry in various ways. This includes guest lectures by industry leaders, company visits abroad during the International Study Module and career-enhancing events hosted by the alumni and large companies on campus. This will become your foundation for business relations in future. Apply business knowledge to the benefit of society Contributing to a sustainable society is ingrained into the school s academic programmes, research and the way it conducts its business. During the course of the MBA, students get involved in social engagement projects for example, by being exposed to hands-on case studies or by helping small business owners from communities with business plans. Students can choose to turn social engagement projects into research reports.

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14 12 MBA structure The MBA programme The USB MBA aims to give you an astute understanding of how to manage a business responsibly in an African and global multicultural environment. It s about acquiring the intellectual ability to recognise social, economic and other patterns, to argue in a critical fashion, to innovate, to embrace the complexities of today s business and social environment, and to work out solutions. USB s MBA is rigorous. It is underpinned by solid quantitative subjects such as Business Finance and Management Accounting. Yet, it also incorporates qualitative aspects of management and leadership. Collaborative learning where students learn from each other is a key feature of the USB MBA. What makes this valuable is the unique knowledge and management experience that each student brings to the table. USB s students are mature people; 31% of them have between 7 and 11 years of work experience while 39% have 12 or more years of work experience. The people at USB are professional and friendly ready to help you make the most of your MBA journey. Learning outcomes The ability to manage at board level Strategic thinking abilities Critical thinking abilities abilities The ability to thrive in a global multicultural environment An astute understanding of the business, social and natural environment in which we operate A thorough understanding of the concept of good corporate citizenship The ability to make an impact in society The ability to articulate professionally in an organisational environment Integrated learning and problemsolving abilities with a holistic approach to the business environment. as a core theme USB believes leaders are grown, not born. Therefore, each MBA student follows an individualised leadership development journey throughout the entire programme to cultivate the following capabilities: Personal leadership: with subjects such as Emotional Intelligence, Individual Ethical Decision-making and Multicultural Sensitivity Group leadership: with subjects such as Valuing and Leading Diversity and High-impact and Teaming Organisational leadership: with subjects such as Organisational Change, Rank and Power, Corporate Governance, High-performance People Management Practices, Negotiation and Mediation, and Employee Relations Societal leadership: with subjects such as Business in Society and Corporate Citizenship. The leadership module is delivered via assessment questionnaires, a class programme (45 contact sessions), case studies and one-on-one dialogues with faculty members and peer-based feedback groups. The output required from students includes tests, journaling, reflective essays and group assignments. USB s leadership expertise is based on the contribution of experts, practicebased inputs and research undertaken by its Centre for. The USB MBA programme is a continuous journey. There are so many Aha moments. Penelope Schrywer, Full-time MBA 2013

15 MBA structure 13 MBA Structure The content of the MBA is structured into three phases. The preparation for the research assignment and writing of it run parallel to all three phases. PHASE 1 PHASE 2 PHASE 3 Management Fundamentals Management in Context Management Enhancement This phase prepares students to operate in a business environment by covering the basic tools and frameworks required for business decision-making. The following modules are delivered: Business Fundamentals (10 credits) Decision Analysis (20 credits) Economics for Managers (10 credits) : Orientation and Context (40 credits) Management Accounting (20 credits) Personal Skills Development (Information Literacy, Presentation Skills and Writing Skills) (1 credit) Research Methodology (10 credits) This phase is structured in three broad and overlapping learning clusters: Individual, Organisation and Environment. The following modules are delivered: Business Finance (20 credits) Business in Society (15 credits) International Management (10 credits) (40 credits) Marketing Management (20 credits) Operations and Information Management (25 credits) Strategic Management (20 credits) Students have the opportunity to specialise during this phase, which represents approximately 10% of the USB MBA. MBA International Study Module (compulsory): The purpose of this module is to enhance students international exposure. This consists of studies at foreign business schools and visits to global companies. (5 credits) Electives: Choose three electives from a list of over 25 topics. (30 credits) Exchange studies (optional): Students can complete part of their studies at USB s overseas partner schools. (10 30 credits) RESEARCH ASSIGNMENT Students write a research assignment of 50 to 70 pages on a business or management-related problem. The research assignment is usually finalised after completion of the lecture programme. Students will also be required to present their findings orally to the USB community. (50 credits) The leadership track on the USB MBA gives me the opportunity to reflect and get to know who I am and what my leadership style is. JB Belgrove, Full-time MBA 2013

16 14 MBA structure Five programme options The USB MBA is presented in a full-time, part-time and modular format. The content of the three formats is identical. MBA options Full-time MBA Part-time MBA Total duration 18 months 3 years Class contact sessions on campus 11 months of classes 2 years of weekend classes (Friday evenings + Saturday mornings) Orientation block + 10 study blocks spread over 3 years Orientation block + 10 study blocks spread over 3 years Orientation block + 10 study blocks spread over 3 years Research assignment Remainder of period Remainder of period Starting date January January Language English English Modular MBA 3 years During 3rd year January English Modular MBA 3 years During 3rd year February Mainly Afrikaans English Modular MBA 3 years During 3rd year May Reasons to choose our Full-time MBA Increased international exposure: In the Full-time MBA class, you will join international students from all over the world, allowing you to learn from their experiences and cultural backgrounds. Single-minded focus: Immerse yourself in your studies (11 months of classes) without the demands of a job. Career change: Take a break from fulltime employment and prepare yourself for a new career. Our MBA is aimed at preparing you to manage up to board level and to lead with confidence. Contact with business environment: Make the most of the many speaker and networking events in class and on campus. Reasons to choose our Part-time MBA Study while you work: Attend classes on Friday evenings and Saturday mornings no leave from work required (except for one week on the MBA International Study Module at an overseas school). Apply skills immediately: Implement your new business skills at work while getting support from USB. Study on your doorstep: This option is ideal if you live close to the USB campus in the Tyger Valley business district, Greater Cape Town or further away in the Boland or West Coast area. You can also stay over at the on-campus Bellvista Lodge. Contact with business environment: Make better use of the speaker events (on leadership, careers, etc.) on campus. Reasons to choose our Modular MBA Study while you work: This block release programme is presented in focused blocks of one week each (up to four blocks per year), which will enable you to attend lectures without infringing too much upon your work obligations. This arrangement will enable you to make the most of your time on campus. Apply skills immediately: Implement your new business skills at work immediately while getting support from USB. Study at USB even if you live further afield: Students from all over South Africa and from various other African countries choose this option because they need to travel to USB only a few times a year. Note: It is possible to meet all the requirements for the degree after 18 months, but the degree is only awarded in December of the second year. Note: Lectures are scheduled over a period of two years and students finish their research assignments in the third year. However, it is possible to complete the research assignment while doing the lecture programme. Note: Students finish their research assignments in the last year. Graduation normally takes place in March after the completion of the three years. Two language options All the programmes are presented in English except the one Modular MBA which is presented mainly in Afrikaans. Classes on the Afrikaans Modular MBA are presented in English only where lecturers (e.g. from abroad) do not speak Afrikaans. This makes USB the only business school that offers contact sessions in Afrikaans. This allows Afrikaans-speaking students to do their MBA in their home language while working full-time. Participants on this programme must be fully bilingual in English and Afrikaans. The curriculum and textbooks are exactly the same as for the other groups.

17 MBA structure 15 MBA timetables 2015 About the timetables Module: In the timetables below, this module includes People Management, Diversity Management, (Personal, Group and Organisational), Business Ethics, Employee Relations, and Change Management and Organisational Renewal. Modular MBA: Modular MBA students starting in January and February have three blocks in the third year with the final block towards the END of the third year. Modular MBA students starting in May usually finish their research assignments in the six months following their last block. Stellenbosch University s graduation ceremonies take place in March and December each year. Timetable changes: USB reserves the right to change dates of the lecture schedule or subjects per term table. Students will be informed of any change in good time. Full-time MBA (English, first year in 2015) Term 1: 21 January 1 April Term 2: 13 April 26 June Term 3: 20 July 2 October Term 4: 12 October 14 November Full-time MBA table for 2015 Term 1 Term 2 Term 3 Term 4 Business Fundamentals Personal Skills Development Operations and Information Management International management Personal Skills Development Economics for Managers Strategic Management Business in Society Research Methodology Decision Analysis Strategic Management Decision Analysis Business Finance Research Methodology Management Accounting Marketing Management Electives Part-time MBA (English, first year in 2015) Term 1: 23 January 28 March Term 2: 10 April 27 June Term 3: 24 July 3 October Term 4: 9 October 28 November Part-time MBA table for 2015 Term 1 Term 2 Term 3 Term 4 Business Fundamentals Economics for Managers Economics for Managers Operations and Information Management Personal Skills Development Research Methodology Research Methodology Research Methodology Decision Analysis Decision Analysis Electives Decision Analysis Management Accounting Management Accounting

18 16 MBA structure Modular MBA: January intake (English, first year in 2015) Orientation: January Block 1: March Block 2: 8 13 June Block 3: 28 September 3 October Modular MBA: February intake (Afrikaans, first year in 2015) Orientation: February Block 1: April Block 2: July Block 3: October Modular MBA: May intake (English, first year in 2015) Orientation: May Block 1: 27 July 1 August Block 2: October Modular MBA table for 2015 (January and February intakes) For the May intake, there are 3 blocks in 2015, and 4 blocks each in 2016 and Orientation block Block 1 Block 2 Block 3 Personal Skills Development Business Fundamentals Business Fundamentals Decision Analysis Research Methodology Personal Skills Development Economics for Managers Management Accounting Economics for Managers Research Methodology Operations and Information Management Research Methodology Decision Analysis Decision Analysis Management Accounting Modular MBA table for 2016 Block 4 Block 5 Block 6 Block 7 Decision Analysis Management Accounting Decision Analysis Management Accounting Operations and Information Management Business Finance International Management Operations and Information Management Marketing Management Operations and Information Management Marketing Management International Management Marketing Management Strategic Management Modular MBA table for 2016 Block 8 Business Finance Business in Society Strategic Management Block 9 Business Finance Business in Society Strategic Management Block 10 Strategic management Electives

19 learning contents 17 Programme contents This section covers the programme overview, the class programme modules, the electives and the research assignment. Class programme modules PHASE 1: Management Fundamentals Business Fundamentals: Background to management theory the value chain; competitive forces and positioning; market dynamics; the manager s functions in a dynamic, interrelated and continuously changing work environment; global management issues; principles of strategic decisionmaking; a world view of the information age; analysis of complex problems through systems thinking; systemic principles and methods of organisational development; the case method as a mechanism to explore complexity and cross-functional characteristics of business challenges. Decision Analysis: Data, data collection and description; probability theory; probability distributions; sampling and sample distributions; statistical estimation; hypothesis testing; analysis of variance; contingency tables; correlation and regression; linear programming; model formulation, solution and sensitivity analysis; integer programming; critical path methods; simulation. Economics for Managers: The meaning of economics and economic systems, and how economics influences all stakeholders in society; the meaning and challenges of globalisation and international economic integration, especially with regard to an open developing economy; the application of the principles of supply and demand in a market economy; the implications of the interaction between changes in one or more of a wide range of macroeconomic forces; economic growth and development; inflation; unemployment; the balance of payments and exchange rates; the reasoning behind economic policy decisions, and the impact of such decisions on the managerial function. Orientation and Context: The aim of this module is to establish a clear understanding of the leadership development process and assessment requirements. It includes the principles of the New Economy and Values Shift, and discusses the primary challenges facing leaders in the New Economy. It also initiates the leadership development process on a personal level. Management Accounting: Elements of cost and cost systems; break-even analysis; budgeting control; cost behaviour, variance analysis; in-depth analysis and interpretation of financial statements of listed South African industrial companies; focus on cash-flow analysis and management of working capital; traditional ratio analysis; value-added statements and analysis of historical performance reviews. Personal Skills Development: Dimensions of proper communication; self-reading on verbal communication skills; oral presentations techniques and resources; adaptive assessments of individual presentation skills; self-reading on professional written communication with emphasis on report-writing; continuous feedback and adaptive assessment of report-writing skills; self-study of resources supplied to acquire proficiency in office productivity software and the US enterprise collaboration software; information literacy, dealing with the proper methods of finding, using, passing value judgements upon, and referencing information resources. Research Methodology: This module deals with the mastery of the scientific skills underlying business and management research. These skills must be applied in developing a research topic and in selecting a research design that is suitable to answer the specific research question. The design must be documented in the form of a final research proposal, and must be defended before a panel of academics. This module includes the logic of the research process and the different forms of reasoning; stages in the research process; formulating the research question; conceptualisation, sampling, and data collection. This module includes a focus on qualitative research aspects. PHASE 2: Management in Context Business Finance: The aims and functions of financial management; financial analysis; management of working capital; financial markets; strategic investment and financing decisions; dividends; cost of capital, risk and required rate of return; valuation and take overs; an introduction to derivative instruments. Business in Society: This module equips students with the necessary awareness and models pertaining to the role of business in society as a positive force, one which builds value for the broadest definition of stakeholders in an ethical way as well as in a socially and environmentally responsible manner. International Management: International economics; international trade law and trade blocks; managing in the international environment; emerging economies and growth strategies; global environment for companies; internationalisation of companies; and legal framework for internationalisation.

20 18 learning contents : Personal Authentic : Orientation and Context; Personal Edge; Personal Mastery and Emotional Intelligence; Individual Ethical Decision-making; Multicultural Sensitivity; Personal Identity/ Culture/History. Leading with Others: Valuing and Leading Diversity; High-impact and Teaming. Leading the Organisation: Organisational Change; Corporate Governance; Diversity within Organisations; High-performance People Management Practices; Employment Relations; Negotiation. Marketing Management: The role of marketing in society and its impact on both consumers and producers; consumerism and customer centricity and its relationship to all parts of the business; the central role of marketing in the organisation; the principles of marketing; the marketing concept and process; consumer behaviour and the concept of value; directional strategies, including segmentation, target market selection and positioning (STP); branding; marketing strategy including the traditional marketing mix (4Ps) and the expanded marketing mix (7Ps); formulation, implementation and control of a marketing plan. Operations and Information Management: Competition and operations management of global organisations; demand management; order fulfilment process; volume and variety; e-commerce and the impact on operations, technology and productivity; operations and information quality; the global supply chain and information; the information resource; managing information technology to deliver strategy; enterprise systems; managerial decision-making and knowledge management; information strategies; technology challenges and future trends. Strategic Management: The theory, process, implementation and evaluation of strategic management; industry, competitive, and environmental analyses in an unpredictable operating environment; internal analysis (value chain, processes, differentiation, segmentation, assessment of internal resources and capacity), goal-setting (articulating and prioritising organisational objectives and designing measurable, operational goals across the organisation), and formulating strategy (optimising value chain activities, implementing change); link between allocation of resources/ budgets and strategic plan; evaluating performance using multi-dimensional tracking models such as the Balanced Scorecard and feedback loops, evaluating difficult-to-quantify, non-financial goals; designing action plans; differentiation between competitive business strategy and corporate strategy; managing stakeholders and interest groups; leadership, role of key decision-makers and specifically the role of the CEO and middle managers; entrepreneurial action-orientation; managing innovation; risk; entrepreneurial initiatives; military strategy; social enterprise and non-profit management; driving the organisation forward where the margins between private enterprise, government and the social sector are becoming increasingly blurred; integrated, cross-disciplinary cases; business simulations. Note: USB reserves the right to modify the contents of subjects and to combine subject matter for better integration of learning areas. This is in the interest of continuous improvement of the curriculum. PHASE 3: Management enhancement Students have the opportunity to specialise during this phase, which represents approximately 10% of the USB MBA. Electives Students have to do three electives in their final year. Students can choose these electives based on their interests, or they can combine electives in similar areas (e.g. Global Business Strategy, International Finance and International Marketing) to create areas of increased expertise. The electives vary from year to year, depending on the subjects chosen by students and the availability of lecturers. The following electives have been offered recently: Applied Change Breakthrough Start-up Entrepreneurship Building Future Markets Business Forecasting Business Strategy in Emerging and Frontier Markets Competitive Intelligence Customer Experience Derivative Instruments Doing Business in Africa: opportunities, obstacles and challenges Emotional Intelligence Enterprise Risk Management Entrepreneurship Environmental Finance Financial Risk Management Global Business Strategy Global Marketing Innovating for the Bottom of the Pyramid International Finance International Marketing Internet Advertising Leading and Managing Customer Service Excellence Leader as Coach Management Consulting Managing Knowledge for Strategic Effectiveness Marketing Metrics Portfolio Management Project Management Sustainable Enterprise. MBA International Study Module All MBA students need to do the compulsory MBA International Study Module at a foreign business school to enhance their international exposure. The cost of the International Study Module is indicated separately from the MBA study fees.

21 learning contents 19 Last year, study tours were undertaken to China, India, Turkey, France, Italy, The Netherlands, Belgium, Russia, USA and Canada. This is what some of these tours entailed: Students who opted for the tour to China, for example, attended a module on Doing Business in China at the BiMBA at Peking University in Beijing. The trip included visits to the Great Wall of China, Forbidden City and Silk Market, and dinner with a Chinese family. Students on the French tour attended lectures on Marketing, Innovation and Integration at the IÉSEG School of Management in Paris. They visited the European Commission in Brussels, and tourist sites such as the Eiffel Tower, Sacré Coeur and Notre Dame. The USA trip focused on Finance, Entrepreneurship and Technology at the Salisbury University in Salisbury, Maryland. The group also spent two nights in New York and visited the financial district in Wall Street, the New York Stock Exchange and a brokerage firm. Exchange studies abroad MBA students can choose to complete part of their studies at one of the USB s overseas partner schools. Attending classes at an overseas business school to earn credits towards your USB MBA forms part of the Management Enhancement phase of the MBA. Exchange studies are optional. Research assignment Concurrent to the MBA and building on the content of the MBA, students will write a research assignment of 50 to 70 pages on a business or management-related problem. The research assignment is usually finalised after completion of the lecture programme. Students will also be required to present their findings orally to the USB community. These assignments are practice-oriented and may be based on the student s working environment, thus benefiting employer and student. Research approaches may include case studies, feasibility/business plans, marketing plans, strategic plans, econometric research, exploratory studies and studies based on surveys and/or interviews. The research assignment is expected to comprise original, critical and insightful research to add depth to students learning experience.

22 20 APPLICATION What else do I need to know? Admission requirements IMPORTANT: 2015 is the last year to enrol with a three-year degree From 2016 onwards, the Council on Higher Education (CHE) in South Africa will, based on new regulations, require all MBA applicants to have a four-year degree, honours degree or postgraduate diploma. Therefore, 2015 will be the last year in which potential candidates with a three-year degree or national diploma and relevant work experience will be admitted on an MBA programme at a South African business school, including USB. USB s stringent admission criteria result in higher retention and pass rates. These criteria include: Qualifications and work experience Applicants with a bachelor s degree: We require at least 3 years of relevant full-time work experience (preferably on managerial level). Applicants with a 3-year national diploma or equivalent qualification: We require at least 6 years of relevant full-time work experience (preferably on managerial level). Applicants with no formal academic qualification (RPL candidates): We require 10 years of full-time work experience (including 5 years in management). Only 10% of a class group may be enrolled via Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). Mathematics Mathematics at school exit level is required in all instances. Note that certain qualifications are subject to SAQA evaluation. Selection tests USB accepts the SHL or GMAT selection test. Both tests are recognised internationally. Make an appointment with USB to do the SHL selection test, or contact GMAT at SHL The SHL consists of a verbal critical reasoning assessment, a numerical critical reasoning assessment, an inductive reasoning test and an occupational personality questionnaire (OPQ) which specifically focuses on behavioural preferences. The test takes about three hours to complete and no preparation is required beforehand. When and where: Applicants may do the SHL test on set dates (see USB website) or by appointment at USB or at other centres in the country. Cost: R2 700 (if taken at USB). Please note: You can only take the SHL test once you have started your electronic MBA application process because you will need a provisional student number for payments and for SHL reports (which will be linked to your electronic application). The total therefore is R4 150 (R2 700 SHL test + R1 450 MBA application fee). Please see bank details on next page and use your provisional student number as reference. Book: Contact USB on telephone or shl@usb.ac.za. Additional information: Go to SHL selection test Verbal critical 1 reasoning assessment... Numerical critical 2 reasoning assessment... 3Inductive reasoning test... 4Occupational Personality Questionnaire (OPQ)... GMAT The GMAT consists of three timed sections, namely an analytical writing assessment, a quantitative assessment and a verbal assessment. A copy of the results will automatically be forwarded to USB. The test takes about four hours. This test is not administered by USB. Foreign students need to contact the Regional Registration Centre in The Netherlands on SA students need to contact Pearson VUE Professional Centre in Johannesburg on +27 (0) or or at justin.jacobs@pearson.com. Cost: $250. Find more information at or Three essays Write an essay of approximately 250 words on each of the following topics: Competencies: Your achievements, developed abilities and significant learning to date, and areas of competence that you still need to develop. Career objectives: Where would you like to be five and ten years after completing your MBA and how do you intend getting there? Personal motivation: How do you deal with adversity and stress, what keeps you motivated and focused, and how do you intend coping with the additional stress that the MBA will create? Interview by an alumnus USB alumni interview all qualifying applicants to determine their motivation levels, general knowledge of the business world and ability to support their arguments. These interviews are conducted by alumni in various cities, local and internationally. In the

23 Application 21 event that we do not have an interviewer close by, the interview will be conducted telephonically. Credits for completed modules Credits are awarded on a weighted basis per module. The total number of SAQA credits granted on the USB MBA programme is 306. Transfer of credits from subjects completed elsewhere USB supports the principle of recognition of prior academic learning, although this is only applied in very selective instances at USB, because group work and collaborative learning are cornerstones of the USB MBA. To obtain an MBA degree at USB, a student must be registered at Stellenbosch University for at least two years and at least 50% of the credits have to be obtained at this University. A student who has been admitted to the MBA programme may apply for accreditation of prior learning, provided that it was obtained on another MBA programme. The student needs to supply: An application which includes full course outlines, number of SAQA credits, learning outcomes, number of class contact hours, prescribed textbooks, method and weights of assessment, and outcomes or topics per class session. Additional work or assessments may be required. Assessment of MBA students deliverables Assessment takes place on a continuous basis through individual and group assignments, tests, discussions, presentations, participation and the analysis of case studies. All assessments take place on campus during scheduled class times. Detailed regulations for the MBA degree are included in the 2014 Calendar of Stellenbosch University. Assessment and recognition of prior learning According to Stellenbosch University s policy framework for the Assessment and Recognition of Prior Learning (ARPL), a limited number of non-degree students may join the MBA. Stringent assessment criteria are applied to determine whether the applicant has developed the necessary generic competencies during his/ her undergraduate learning. Admission requirements for ARPL candidates include the following, in addition to the normal application process: Work experience: A minimum of 10 years of full-time work experience, of which at least five years should have been in management. Selection test: For the SHL test, numeric, verbal and inductive reasoning scores of 7 are expected or an overall GMAT score of 550. An extensive CV: An extended CV is required in which growth and learning over time is shown in the responsibilities associated with successive jobs. At least two references: Confidential reports from two referees are required on the candidate s work and management experience. An interview by a member of faculty: This is mandatory. Bridging measures for prospective students To prepare themselves for the MBA programme, prospective MBA students may opt for or be required to follow the MBA Foundation Programme prior to enrolment. The programme is aimed at students with an insufficient mathematical and non-financial background who would like to prepare themselves for subjects such as Mathematics, Statistics, Operational Research, Cost Accounting, Financial Evaluation and Financial Management. The five-day MBA Foundation Programme will enhance numerical and quantitative skills, provide a basic understanding of key financial and statistical terms, and build confidence in dealing with financial mathematics. The programme is presented by USB Executive Development Ltd (USB-ED) and the fees are not included in the MBA fees. Programme dates: November 2014, and again in January 2015 (before start of MBA). Venue: USB, Bellville Language: English Programme format: Morning lectures, followed by tutorials in the afternoons, plus assignments. Cost: R8 400 (excluding VAT) MBA Information Sessions Across the country, across borders USB hosts on-campus, countrywide and cross-border information sessions from May to October each year. For the convenience of prospective students, USB will schedule SHL tests at the venues. (The successful completion of a selection test is an MBA admission requirement.) Dates and times Please see for dates, venues, timeslots and booking details. Or mba@usb.ac.za or call +27 (0) Apply in 4 steps 1Apply online: Go to and complete the online MBA application form. You will be able to complete the form in steps without losing information. The application process is the same for South African and foreign students. Pay your application fee: 2 Bank: Standard Bank. Type of account: cheque account. Account number: Branch name: Stellenbosch. Branch code: SWIFT code: SBZAZAJJ. Proof of payment of your application fee can also be ed to joanne.sleigh@usb.ac.za. Do a selection test: 3 USB accepts the SHL or GMAT selection test. Both tests are recognised internationally. Make an appointment with USB to do the SHL selection test, or contact GMAT at See for selection test fees and further information. 4Upload the following documents online: o Proof of application fee payment o Comprehensive CV o 3 essays of 250 words each on your competencies, career objectives and personal motivation o Copies of degree certificates (please note that the original certificate must be shown on Day One, or shown together with a transcript of the subjects) o Proof of school-leaving mathematics results o SHL or GMAT selection test results (if these were not sent to USB directly) o Copy of your ID (or passport for non- South African students); o A marriage certificate (where the applicant s new surname does not match that on the degree certificate). What happens next? Your application can only be assessed by the selection panel if it is accompanied by the fully filled out online application form and all the appropriate supporting documents. Each qualifying applicant will be interviewed (face-to-face or telephonically) by an alumnus of the School. The outcome of the selection process will be made known within 30 days or as soon as possible thereafter.