Heriot-Watt Management Programme Programme Handbook School of Management and Languages

Transcription

1 Heriot-Watt Management Programme Programme Handbook School of Management and Languages

2 Heriot-Watt Management Programme School of Management and Languages Programme Handbook PART A SCHOOL INFORMATION PAGE NO. SUMMARY OF KEY INFORMATION WELCOME AND INTRODUCTION GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY, SCHOOL AND MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME OVERVIEW OF THE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME STRUCTURE AND MODULES OF THE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME EXAMINATIONS, TRANSFERRING ON ON-CAMPUS AND WITHDRAWING FROM THE PROGRAMME PART B UNIVERSITY INFORMATION 1 ACADEMIC SUPPORT ENROLMENT, ATTENDANCE AND PERIODS OF STUDY GUIDANCE ON ASSESSMENT EXAMINATION AND RE-ASSESSMENT PROCEDURES AWARDS, GRADING AND QUALIFICATIONS GRADUATION CONDUCT, DISCIPLINE AND APPEALS DEFERRED PROGRESSION, SUSPENSION AND WITHDRAWAL STUDENT FEES AND CHARGES STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES UNIVERSITY POLICY AND GUIDANCE APPENDIX - STUDENT GUIDE TO PLAGIARISM

3 PART A SCHOOL INFORMATION SUMMARY OF KEY INFORMATION Contacts at Heriot-Watt University The Principal and Vice-Chancellor is the head of the University and are supported by academic and administrative staff. Mr Marc A Quinn is the Director of External Programmes, School of Management and Languages (SML) and his remit includes the Heriot-Watt Management Programme. Marc is supported by academic and administrative staff located at Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh and by the School of Management and Languages External Programmes Team. Key Contacts for Heriot-Watt Management Programme Heriot-Watt Management Programme External Programmes School of Management and Languages Heriot-Watt University Edinburgh Scotland, UK EH14 4AS Tel: +44 (0) Fax: +44 (0) external@sml.hw.ac.uk Director of External Programmes Mr Marc A Quinn Tel: +44 (0) m.a.quinn@hw.ac.uk Examinations Co-ordinator Ms Karly McClure Tel: +44 (0) k.mcclure@hw.ac.uk Heriot-Watt Management Programme Web-Support Site hwmp-support@hw.ac.uk SIGNIFICANT DATES IN ACADEMIC YEAR The Heriot-Watt Management Programme operates on a bi-annual examination diet system. For each of the two examination diets (June and December), the key dates are as follows. IMPORTANT DATES DIET Examination Dates* Examination Registration Deadline Examination Deferral Deadline Examination Results Released June 1st full week of June 1st March 1st May 31st July December 1st full week of December 1st September 1st November 31st January * The days in which the modules are assessed are available from your Approved Learning Partner. LINKS TO FURTHER INFORMATION/ - Heriot-Watt University Please see the web-site which contains information about Heriot-Watt University. - School of Management and Languages Please see the web-site which contains information about the School of Management and Languages. 3

4 1 Welcome and Introduction The term Flexible, Distributed and Independent Learning is used to refer to educational provision leading to an award of Heriot-Watt University as the awarding institution, but delivered, supported or assessed through means which do not require the student to attend on-campus. This includes distributed learning delivered through an Approved Learning Partner, individual distance learning in which there may be little direct contact with staff and students on campus, and e-learning supported and, where relevant, assessed via the internet. Students may study using a mixture of on-and offcampus mechanisms. Students in receipt of this handbook are studying through an Approved Learning Partner (an organisation/institution with which Heriot-Watt University has entered into agreement and which is charged with delivery of and learner support for a Heriot-Watt University course of study to students) and should contact the Approved Learning Partner in the first instance for any academic query or assistance. The Heriot-Watt Management Programme is a supported flexible and distributed learning undergraduate degree programme in mainstream business and management subjects. Students can take one of five undergraduate degrees, each equivalent to the same degrees awarded at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, Scotland (UK). 1.1 Welcome to Heriot-Watt University from the Principal I am delighted to welcome you as a student of Heriot-Watt University. Heriot-Watt University has a well earned reputation as Scotland's most international and outwardlooking University. With three campuses in Scotland (attended by a high percentage of students from across the world), our Campus in Dubai, and Learning Partner institutions across the world, we have a vibrant and diverse learning culture which is unique and unmatched by other universities in the United Kingdom. We are keen to give our students the opportunity to develop an international dimension to their studies which will enhance their opportunities for future growth. You are an important part of this global community and I very much hope you enjoy your time with us. Professor Steve Chapman Principal and Vice-Chancellor 1.2 Welcome from Head of School Welcome to the School of Management and Languages. The School is committed to providing its students with the education and personal development skills required by today s graduate employers. We take pride in the achievements of both our past and present students and the role the School has played in their success. Your academic performance is directly related to the amount of effort you put into learning and studying. The more you put in, the more you will get out. This student-centred approach to learning places responsibility for how well you do into your own hands. We have produced this handbook in order to answer many of the questions that students may have during their studies here, including administrative procedures relating to the running of their degree course, University policies and the support services available to them. We hope you will find this information useful. Professor Gillian Hogg Head of School 4

5 1.3 Welcome from the Director of External Programmes Welcome to the Heriot-Watt Management Programme at Heriot-Watt University. The academic year 2009/10 marks the 10th year since the School of Management and Languages launched the Heriot-Watt Management Programme internationally via flexible and distributed learning. Over the last 10 years, we have seen over 1,000 graduates, and the student numbers continue to increase on an annual basis. The School has also developed and strengthened its institutional relationships with Approved Learning Partners through the world, and the HWMP continues to enhance its international reputation of providing high quality graduating students to the business community, in a wide range of fields and developing their careers with a variety of professional bodies. We are justifiably proud of all our graduates who have found the Heriot-Watt Management Programme to be challenging, but worthwhile and rewarding, and relevant to their chosen profession. The effort that students put into their studies prepares them well for finding new (or boosting existing) careers in the business world, gaining relevant knowledge and being able to apply their skills learned to expand their prospects in a competitive market place. Our aim is to provide you with a flexible environment, and an interesting and enjoyable approach, to learning the technical and analytical skills of a range of complex and challenging subjects. The study materials you will be using have been developed by key academics who have taught the same subjects here at Heriot-Watt University. The degree to which you will study in your home country (either via an Approved Learning Partner or as an independent learner) is of the same academic standard and equivalence as studying here in Edinburgh, Scotland. Our examinations are rigorous, but students who pass leave with the knowledge that they have gained a rich and rewarding learning experience which stands them ahead of others in boosting their career prospects. I hope you see the Heriot-Watt Management Programme as a means of fulfilling your personal goals and objectives; and we hope that you will keep in touch with us not just during your studies, but once you have graduated and find the following period of study as one which you will look back fondly as having achieved a high quality degree, from a top international University. Marc A Quinn Director of External Programmes 5

6 2 General Information about the University, School and Management Programme 2.1 Heriot-Watt University Heriot-Watt University has four campuses, a parent campus in Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland in the UK, two campuses in the north and south of Scotland, and a Campus in Dubai, as well as a number of overseas centres running University programmes. Heriot-Watt University s mission is to provide students with the opportunity to study courses which will enable them to contribute immediately to the economy and wellbeing of the region in which they choose to work. This ethos of doing things that matter stretches right back to the origins of Heriot-Watt in 1821, when courses were run to suit the needs of developing industries in Scotland. 2.2 School of Management and Languages The School of Management and Languages has over 2,000 full-time undergraduate students studying at our Edinburgh, Scottish Borders and Dubai Campuses. In addition, there are over 2,000 undergraduate students studying their degrees through Approved Learning Partners worldwide on the Heriot-Watt Management Programme. The School offers a diverse portfolio of degree programmes across a broad range of subjects in Accounting and Finance, Economics, Languages and Management. The flexibility of our undergraduate courses reflects the importance we place upon student choice. 2.3 Heriot-Watt Management Programme The Heriot-Watt Management Programme (hereafter the Management Programme) is a highly flexible programme. Students can prepare for their examinations using a combination of specially written material, web support and tutor assistance. Heriot-Watt University staff set and marks the examinations. The examinations are subject to the same independent quality checks required of the whole University. Both the content and the standard of the various subjects (known as modules) are equivalent with those available on-campus. Students can take up to ten years to complete their degree. This means that students can adapt their study pattern to fit in with their work and family commitments. The study pattern available also means that the course needs only be paid for on a pay as you go' basis. There is no compulsory period of study in the United Kingdom (UK) although it is possible to transfer to a full-time on-campus mode of study after they have completed a particular stage of the course. After completing Stage 3, for example, students can apply to transfer to a full-time one year MA (Honours) degree course available on-campus in Edinburgh. More details about transferring to full-time studies in the UK may be found in Section It is possible to take one of five degrees, discussed in Section 4. Each degree is divided into three stages, and each stage contains a number of modules, either synoptically-linked or stand-alone. Synoptically-linked modules are a grouping of two modules in a particular subject area for assessment purposes. Further details on the structure of the Management Programme can be found in Section

7 2.4 Approved Learning Partners Approved Learning Partners (ALPs) are educational institutions established in various countries around the world. The main task of the ALP is to provide the necessary face-face teaching to complement the written course materials and ensure that their students are adequately prepared to sit the examinations successfully. Additionally, the ALPs must also provide adequate learning facilities such as tutorial rooms, study areas, library and computing access, to a level approved by Heriot-Watt University. ALPs are responsible for ensuring that students have a supported learning experience through access to tutorial support, representation, counselling and advice. As ALPs are in direct contact with students, it is expected that students use their ALP to deal with all first level enquiries. However, the External Programmes team aims to support ALPs as much as possible and will assist with queries as requested. Students can also contact the External Programmes team using the general address: external@sml.hw.ac.uk 2.5 Communication It is essential that the Management Programme and the University are kept informed of any changes to student s personal details and it is the responsibility of the student to notify the Management Programme Contact Details Students should submit a completed Change of Details form, in order to inform the Management Programme of any change to their address or contact details. This form is available from their ALP or via the Management Programme Web-Support Site Heriot-Watt Management Programme Web-Support Site The Management Programme Web-Support Site provides access to various administrative forms as well as four diets of past examination papers and examiner reports. There are also discussion boards for students to post both module specific questions and general administrative questions. The site can be accessed via the Current Students - HWMP Resources link at and access for students is via a username and password which will be provided to students within their matriculation pack. Any support requests relating to the Management Programme Web-Support Site should be directed initially to hwmp-support@hw.ac.uk. 7

8 3 Overview of the Management Programme 3.1 Degree Pathways Available The Heriot-Watt Management Programme (hereafter the Management Programme) is made up the following degrees: Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Accounting Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Accountancy and Finance Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Business and Finance Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Management When students have obtained their degree they are entitled to insert the appropriate letters after their name, i.e. either BBA or BA. Students are advised to choose a degree pathway that contains modules that are of the greatest interest to them. Experience suggests that students are more likely to do well in their examinations if they are really interested in a subject. Study materials for the Management Programme are packaged as either synoptically-linked modules (i.e. two modules in a particular subject area linked together for assessment purposes) or stand-alone modules, as appropriate. Within each module there are specific learning outcomes for the subject material covered in the syllabus. Students intending to complete one of the degree pathways should endeavour to complete the eight mandatory synoptically-linked modules at Stage One (Certificate Level) before commencing the synopticallylinked modules at Stage 2 (Diploma Level). Students should then complete synoptically-linked modules at Stage 2, appropriate to their chosen degree pathway, before commencing the required synoptically-linked or stand-alone modules at Stage 3 (Degree Level). The degree pathways are explained in detail below. It is possible to transfer to a different degree pathway, subject to the synoptically-linked/stand-alone modules already taken and any exemptions awarded. Students are required to complete a Degree Transfer form (as discussed in Section 4.4). 3.2 Approaches to Teaching and Learning The School of Management and Languages adopts a flexible, learner-centred, resource-based approach to teaching and learning. The Approved Learning Partners (ALPs) who provide the teaching support to students on this course are expected to adopt a similar approach to their teaching and learning. Students are encouraged to take responsibility for their own learning at an early stage. The ALPs will be expected to adopt a variety of teaching and learning resources including lectures, tutorials, and seminars. The students will have access to the ALPs library and computer-based facilities. The approaches to teaching and learning are subject to annual review and quality assurance visits undertaken by Heriot-Watt University to the ALP. ALPs are also assessed in light of feedback received from students, ALPs, examination results, and external examiner s reports (see Section 2.4). 8

9 3.3 Assessment Policies The assessment policy for the Management Programme is through a formal examination only (i.e. there is no assessed coursework element). Synoptically-linked modules (i.e. Introduction to Management 1/Introduction to Management 2) have a three-hour examination to cover both modules and stand-alone modules (i.e. Employment Law) have a two-hour examination. Specific details about the methods of assessment are provided in the appropriate module descriptors (see Section and 5.2). 9

10 4 Structure and Modules of the Management Programme 4.1 Programme Structure Semesterisation The following programme, course and module structures are the new structures introduced for 2009/2010. The new structures are now aligned with the on-campus programmes structures following semesterisation in the same academic areas and align the Heriot-Watt Management Programme (hereafter the Management Programme) and the on-campus together in offering high quality business degrees from Heriot-Watt University. All students should refer on a regular basis to the Management Programme Web-Support Site (accessed via the Student Resources web-site at for further information about structure and any changes introduced. For new students, you will be matriculated onto the new degree structures as presented below and do not need to concern yourselves with previous arrangements and modules. Heriot-Watt University reserves the right to update materials from time to time and will ensure that advance notification concerning changes to materials is provided to students on the relevant section of the Management Programme Web-support Site (see Section 2.5.2). It is the responsibility of students to check the web-site, particularly if they are returning to studies after a period during which their studies have been in abeyance Stages, Modules and Credits The Management Programme is divided into three stages: Stage 1, Stage 2 and Stage 3. These are equivalent to the three years of on-campus full-time study. However, unlike on-campus, students can take more than one year to study for each stage provided that they complete their degree within a ten year period. Each stage contains a number of modules. Currently, all modules in Stages 1 and 2 are synoptically-linked modules. Synoptically-linked modules are two modules in a particular subject area which are studied and assessed together by a single 3-hour written examination. Stage 3 contains a combination of synoptically-linked modules and stand-alone modules. Stand-alone modules are assessed by a single 2-hour written examination. Each module is worth 15 Scottish Credit Qualification Framework (SCQF) credits, with synopticallylinked modules having a combined total of 30 SCQF credits. Stage 1 contains eight synoptically-linked modules and they are all mandatory for all degree pathways; Stage 2 contains twelve synoptically-linked modules, of which two (Quantitative Methods 1/Quantitative Methods 2) are mandatory and Stage 3 has twelve synoptically-linked modules and six stand-alone modules. Therefore, there is some choice available to students at Stage 2 and Stage 3, subject to the specific structure requirements of the student s chosen degree pathway. Students should endeavour to complete the eight core Stage One (Certificate Level) modules before commencing Stage 2 (Diploma Level). Students should then complete the Stage 2 modules appropriate to their chosen pathway, before the required Stage 3 (Degree Level) modules. In order to obtain a degree, students are normally required to achieve 120 credits at each Stage of the course. All students must be credited with a minimum of 360 credits in order to be eligible to graduate. 10

11 4.1.3 The Management Programme Modular Structure Stage 1 (SCQF level 7) Stage 2 (SCQF level 8) Module 1 Module 2 Introduction to Accounting 1 Introduction to Accounting 2 Introduction to Economics 1 Introduction to Economics 2 Introduction to Banking and Financial Services Introduction to Finance 1 Introduction to Management 1 Introduction to Management 2 Commercial Law 1 Commercial Law 2 Finance Theory and Markets 1 Finance Theory and Markets 2 Financial Accounting Management Accounting Introduction to Marketing 1 Introduction to Marketing 2 Organisational Behaviour Human Resource Management Quantitative Methods 1 Quantitative Methods 1 Stage 3 (SCQF level 9) Auditing Contemporary Issues in Financial Accounting Corporate Finance 1 Corporate Finance 2 Operations Management1 Operations Management 2 Securities Markets 1 Securities Markets 2 Strategic Management International Strategic Management Consumer Behaviour * Employment Law * International Financial Markets * Management Accounting Techniques and Decisions * Project Management * Taxation * * Stand-alone module worth 15 credits Pre-requisites Students will find that as they progress through Stages 2 and 3 there is a progressive development of key concepts and ideas in the various subject areas contained within the syllabus of each module. In some modules it is considered necessary that they have demonstrated a sound grasp of the underlying principles before progressing to the next stage of a particular subject area. In such cases, the module containing the necessary underlying or related principles and concepts is specified as a pre-requisite. For example: If students are planning to take the Stage 2 Financial Accounting/Management Accounting synoptically-linked modules then they must have passed at Grade D or above, or be exempt from, the Stage 1 Introduction to Accounting 1/Introduction to Accounting 2 synopticallylinked modules before they will be permitted to apply for the Stage 2 Financial Accounting/Management Accounting synoptically-linked examination. Likewise, students will not be permitted to apply for the Stage 3 Corporate Finance 1/Corporate Finance 2 synoptically-linked module examination unless they have passed, at Grade D or above or been exempt from, the Stage 2 Finance Theory and Markets 1/Finance Theory and Markets 2 synoptically-linked modules. 11

12 The tables below show the various pre-requisites, where applicable, for Stage 2 and 3 modules: Stage 2: Pre-requisites Module(s) Commercial Law 1 Commercial Law 2 Finance Theory and Markets 1 Finance Theory and Markets 2 Financial Accounting Management Accounting Organisational Behaviour Human Resource Management Introduction to Marketing 1 Introduction to Marketing 2 Quantitative Methods 1 Quantitative Methods 2 Stage 3: Pre-requisites Module(s) Auditing Contemporary Issues in Financial Accounting Corporate Finance 1 Corporate Finance 2 Operations Management 1 Operations Management 2 Strategic Management International Strategic Management Securities Markets 1 Securities Markets 2 Consumer Behaviour Employment Law International Financial Markets Management Accounting Techniques and Decisions Project Management Taxation Pre-requisite Module(s) None Stage 1: Stage 1: None None None Introduction to Banking and Financial Services Introduction to Finance 1 Introduction to Accounting 1 Introduction to Accounting 2 Pre-requisite Module(s) Stage 2: Stage 2: None Stage 1: Stage 2: Stage 2: None None Stage 2: None None Financial Accounting Management Accounting Finance Theory and Markets 1 Finance Theory and Markets 2 Introduction to Management 1 Introduction to Management 2 Finance Theory and Markets 1 Finance Theory and Markets 2 Introduction to Marketing 1 Introduction to Marketing 2 Financial Accounting Management Accounting 12

13 4.2 Degree Courses Available Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) The Bachelor of Business Administration offers the greatest flexibility to students and allows those students to select from a wide range of possible modules, subject to rules on pre-requisites. In order to attain this qualification, the eight synoptically-linked modules from Stage 1, the two mandatory synoptically-linked modules (i.e. Quantitative Methods 1/Quantitative Methods 2) and fourteen other modules, be they synoptically-linked or stand-alone, from Stage 2 and Stage 3 are required Aims and Objectives The Bachelor of Business Administration degree aims to allow students to study a wide range of business, management, finance, accounting and economics modules to a high level through Heriot- Watt University. The course is integrated and structured so that students will study the fundamentals of accounting, economics, finance and management at Stage 1. Later in the course students can select from a wide choice of specialist subject areas. Graduates with a BBA degree will be equipped to work in a variety of general management and professional positions Educational Aims of the Course The course aims to enable learners to: Develop knowledge, understanding and subject skills in areas of accounting, finance and business management for employment in a variety of careers in commerce, industry, education and public administration. Attain professional qualifications by maximising opportunities for exemptions awarded by professional accountancy bodies. Develop subject interests by allowing selection from a range of specialist module sets. Gain a firm foundation, through the Heriot-Watt Management Programme common structure in Stage One, in key areas of accountancy and finance, economics and management to give flexibility of choice in selecting a course to suit their interests and career aspirations. Develop personal abilities (and attitudes for employment in a variety of careers and prepare for lifelong learning and personal development Learning Outcomes Subject Mastery: (a) Understanding and Knowledge, the learner will be able to: Attain the ability to evaluate the main functional and activity areas of management: Marketing, Organisational Behaviour, Human Resource Management, Operations Management, Quantitative Methods, Business Policy, International Strategic Management, Aspects of Law, Financial Management. Attain the necessary knowledge, understanding and transferable skills to build valuable careers in industry or commerce, or to set up their own business. (b) Subject- Specific skills, the learner will be able to: Compile and synthesise data from a variety of sources internal and external to the corporate situation. Critically analyse and evaluate subject material and prevailing business and management paradigms. Formulate personal opinions and conclusions supported by evidence. Apply principles and concepts to practical corporate, commercial and managerial problems and situations. Plan, conduct and report on an individual investigation of business issues and business strategies. Personal Abilities: (a) Cognitive skills, the learner will be able to: Transfer theoretical and practical problem skills to a variety of situations. Critically review and assess material. Recognise, evaluate and comment upon alternative points of view. 13

14 (b) Core skills, the learner will be able to: Communicate and present ideas effectively by written means. Work independently. Plan and organise own learning through self-management. (c) Professional Awareness, the learner will be able to: Demonstrate an interest in both current and past management issues. Take responsibility for personal, professional and social awareness development Structure See pages 15 and Award Requirements The award of Degree requires 360 credits and a minimum of Grade D in at least four Stage 3 modules, all at SCQF level 9. Therefore, students must obtain by formal assessment (i.e. examination not exemption) a Grade D, or above, in four (i.e. 60 credits) of the following synoptically-linked or stand-alone modules (indicated by * below): Auditing/Contemporary Issues in Financial Accounting Corporate Finance 1/Corporate Finance 2 Operations Management 1/Operations Management 2 Securities Markets 1/Securities Markets 2 Strategic Management/International Strategic Management Consumer Behaviour* Employment Law* International Financial Markets* Management Accounting Techniques and Decisions* Project Management* Taxation* Where a student obtains a Grade A in no less than six out of eight modules completed at Stage 3, the examination board will consider whether to make the award of Bachelor of Business Administration with Distinction. 14

15 Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) Arrangement of Modules Mandatory Modules Optional Modules Elective Modules Awards, Credits and Levels Introduction to Accounting 1 and Introduction to Accounting 2 Stage 1 (SCQF level 7) 8 mandatory Introduction to Economics 1 and Introduction to Economics 2 Introduction to Banking and Financial Services and Introduction to Finance 1 Certificate of Higher Education 120 credits, all at SCQF level 7 Introduction to Management 1 and Introduction to Management 2 Stage 2 (SCQF level 8) 2 mandatory + 6 elective Quantitative Methods 1 and Quantitative Methods 2 Minimum of 60 credits (selected from Table 2) Diploma of Higher Education 240 credits, at least 90 of which are at SCQF level 8 Stage 3 (SCQF level 9) 8 elective Minimum of 120 credits (selected from Tables 2 and 3) with a minimum of 90 credits from Table 3. Ordinary Degree 360 credits, at least 90 of which are at SCQF level 9 15

16 Elective Modules Table 2 (Stage 2) Commercial Law 1 and Commercial Law 2 Finance Theory and Markets 1 and Finance Theory and Markets 2 Financial Accounting and Management Accounting Introduction to Marketing 1 and Introduction to Marketing 2 Organisational Behaviour and Human Resource Management Table 3 (Stage 3) Auditing and Contemporary Issues in Financial Accounting Corporate Finance 1 and Corporate Finance 2 Operations Management 1 and Operations Management 2 Securities Markets 1 and Securities Markets 2 Strategic Management and International Strategic Management Consumer Behaviour Employment Law International Financial Markets Management Accounting Techniques and Decisions Project Management Taxation Notes Modules synoptically linked for assessment purposes both SCQF level 8 (30 credits) Modules synoptically linked for assessment purposes both SCQF level 8 (30 credits) Modules synoptically linked for assessment purposes both SCQF level 8 (30 credits) Modules synoptically linked for assessment purposes both SCQF level 8 (30 credits) Modules synoptically linked for assessment purposes both SCQF level 8 (30 credits) Notes Modules synoptically linked for assessment purposes both SCQF level 9 (30 credits) Modules synoptically linked for assessment purposes both SCQF level 9 (30 credits) Modules synoptically linked for assessment purposes both SCQF level 9 (30 credits) Modules synoptically linked for assessment purposes both SCQF level 9 (30 credits) Modules synoptically linked for assessment purposes both SCQF level 9 (30 credits) SCQF level 9 (15 credits) SCQF level 9 (15 credits) SCQF level 9 (15 credits) SCQF level 9 (15 credits) SCQF level 9 (15 credits) SCQF level 9 (15 credits) 16

17 4.2.2 Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Accountancy In order to attain this qualification, the seventeen mandatory modules (eight synoptically-linked at Stage 1, six synoptically-linked at Stage 2, two synoptically-linked and one stand-alone at Stage 3) plus seven further synoptically-linked or stand-alone modules (chosen from a list of elective modules) are required Aims and Objectives The BA Accountancy degree aims to provide a balance of education in accountancy and finance related topics with supporting subjects such as finance statistics, marketing, law, and operations management available in the intermediate years. It maintains its traditionally established aim of providing a sound base for those students looking to a career in the accountancy professional or the financial services industry Educational Aims of the Course The course aims to enable learners to: Develop knowledge, understanding and subject skills in areas of accounting (and finance) for employment in a variety of careers in commerce, industry, education and public administration. Attain professional qualifications by maximising opportunities for exemptions awarded by professional accountancy bodies. Develop subject interests by allowing selection from a range of specialist module sets. Gain a firm foundation, through the Heriot-Watt Management Programme common structure in Stage One, in key areas of accountancy and finance, economics and management to give flexibility of choice in selecting a course to suit their interests and career aspirations. Develop personal abilities and attitudes for employment in a variety of careers and prepare for lifelong learning and personal development Learning Outcomes Subject Mastery: (a) Understanding and Knowledge, the learner will be able to: Develop knowledge and understanding of accountancy (and finance) in the context of existing and emerging issues at national and international level. Develop knowledge and understanding of financial accounting, external reporting and practices and problems of reporting to external users of accounting information; the principles and practice of preparation of accounts, theory of statute and case law in an accountancy and finance context. Develop knowledge and understanding of management accounting: theories, concepts and techniques, role in various organisational environments, contribution to organisational decision-making and performance measurement. Acquire knowledge and understanding of statistical techniques appropriate to accountancy and finance. Acquire knowledge and understanding of the principles of management and economics. (b) Subject- Specific skills, the learner will be able to: Compile and synthesise accountancy and business data from a variety of sources. Critically analyse and evaluate subject material and prevailing accountancy paradigms. Formulate personal opinions and conclusions supported by evidence. Apply principles and concepts of accountancy and finance to practical situations. Personal Abilities: (a) Cognitive skills, the learner will be able to: Transfer theoretical and practical problem-solving skills to a variety of contexts. Apply statistical and numerical skills. Critically review and assess material. Recognise, evaluate and comment critically upon alternative points of view. 17

18 (b) Core skills, the learner will be able to: Communicate and present ideas effectively by written means. Work independently. Plan and organise own learning through self-management. (c) Professional Awareness, the learner will be able to: Demonstrate an interest in current developments in accountancy and cognate areas Take responsibility for personal, professional and social-awareness development Respond proactively to the changing societal role of the accountant and specialists in cognate areas Structure See pages 19 and Award Requirements The award of Degree requires 360 credits and a minimum of Grade D in all three mandatory modules at Stage 3 plus an additional module or modules (if synoptically-linked), so that at least four modules at SCQF level 9 are passed at Grade D or better. Therefore, students must obtain by formal assessment (i.e. examination not exemption) a Grade D, or above, in the following modules: Auditing/Contemporary Issues in Financial Accounting Management Accounting Techniques and Decisions Plus, students must obtain by formal assessment (i.e. examination not exemption) a Grade D, or above, in a minimum of one (i.e. 15 credits) of the following synoptically-linked or stand-alone modules (indicated by * below): Corporate Finance 1/Corporate Finance 2 Operations Management 1/Operations Management 2 Securities Markets 1/Securities Markets 2 Strategic Management/International Strategic Management Consumer Behaviour* Employment Law* International Financial Markets* Project Management* Taxation* Where a student obtains a Grade A in no less than six out of eight modules completed at Stage 3, the examination board will consider whether to make the award of Bachelor of Arts in Accountancy with Distinction. 18

19 Bachelor of Arts in Accountancy Arrangement of Modules Mandatory Modules Optional Modules Elective Modules Awards, Credits and Levels Introduction to Accounting 1 and Introduction to Accounting 2 Stage 1 (SCQF level 7) 8 mandatory Introduction to Economics 1 and Introduction to Economics 2 Introduction to Finance 1 and Introduction to Banking and Financial Services Introduction to Management 1 and Introduction to Management 2 Certificate of Higher Education 120 credits, all at SCQF level 7 Stage 2 (SCQF level 8) 6 mandatory + 2 elective Finance Theory and Markets 1 and Finance Theory and Markets 2 Financial Accounting and Management Accounting Quantitative Methods 1 and Quantitative Methods 2 Minimum of 30 credits (selected from Table 2) Diploma of Higher Education 240 credits, at least 90 of which are at SCQF level 8 Stage 3 (SCQF level 9) 3 mandatory + 5 elective Auditing and Contemporary Issues in Financial Accounting Management Accounting Techniques and Decisions Minimum of 75 credits (selected from Tables 2 and 3) with a maximum of 30 credits from Table 2. Ordinary Degree 360 credits, at least 90 of which are at SCQF level 9 19

20 Elective Modules Table 2 (Stage 2) Commercial Law 1 and Commercial Law 2 Introduction to Marketing 1 and Introduction to Marketing 2 Organisational Behaviour and Human Resource Management Table 3B (Stage 3) Corporate Finance 1 and Corporate Finance 2 Operations Management 1 and Operations Management 2 Securities Markets 1 and Securities Markets 2 Strategic Management and International Strategic Management Consumer Behaviour Employment Law International Financial Markets Project Management Taxation Notes Modules synoptically linked for assessment purposes both SCQF level 8 (30 credits) Modules synoptically linked for assessment purposes both SCQF level 8 (30 credits) Modules synoptically linked for assessment purposes both SCQF level 8 (30 credits) Notes Modules synoptically linked for assessment purposes both SCQF level 9 (30 credits) Modules synoptically linked for assessment purposes both SCQF level 9 (30 credits) Modules synoptically linked for assessment purposes both SCQF level 9 (30 credits) Modules synoptically linked for assessment purposes both SCQF level 9 (30 credits) SCQF level 9 (15 credits) SCQF level 9 (15 credits) SCQF level 9 (15 credits) SCQF level 9 (15 credits) SCQF level 9 (15 credits) 20

21 4.2.3 BA Accountancy and Finance In order to attain this qualification, the seventeen mandatory modules (eight synoptically-linked at Stage 1, six synoptically-linked at Stage 2, two synoptically-linked and one stand-alone at Stage 3) plus seven further synoptically-linked or stand-alone modules (chosen from a list of elective modules) are required Aims and Objectives The BA Accountancy and Finance degree aims to provide a balance of education in accountancy and finance related topics with supporting subjects such as statistics, marketing, law, and operations management available in the intermediate years. It maintains its traditionally established aim of providing a sound base for those students looking to a career in the accountancy professional or the financial services industry Educational Aims of the Course The course aims to enable learners to: Develop knowledge, understanding and subject skills in areas of accounting and finance for employment in a variety of careers in commerce, industry, education and public administration. Attain professional qualifications by maximising opportunities for exemptions awarded by professional accountancy bodies. Develop subject interests by allowing selection from a range of specialist module sets. Gain a firm foundation, through the Heriot-Watt Management Programme common structure in Stage One, in key areas of accountancy and finance, economics and management to give flexibility of choice in selecting a course to suit their interests and career aspirations. Develop personal abilities and attitudes for employment in a variety of careers and prepare for lifelong learning and personal development Learning Outcomes Subject Mastery: (c) Understanding and Knowledge, the learner will be able to: Develop knowledge and understanding of accountancy and finance in the context of existing and emerging issues at national and international level. Develop knowledge and understanding of financial accounting, external reporting and practices and problems of reporting to external users of accounting information; the principles and practice of preparation of accounts, theory of statute and case law in an accountancy and finance context. Develop knowledge and understanding of finance: capital markets and corporate finance and control issues within an UK and international context. Develop knowledge and understanding of management accounting: theories, concepts and techniques, role in various organisational environments, contribution to organisational decision-making and performance measurement. Acquire knowledge and understanding of statistical techniques appropriate to accountancy and finance. Acquire knowledge and understanding of the principles of management and economics. (d) Subject- Specific skills, the learner will be able to: Compile and synthesise accountancy and finance data from a variety of sources. Critically analyse and evaluate subject material and prevailing accountancy and finance paradigms. Formulate personal opinions and conclusions supported by evidence. Apply principles and concepts of accountancy and finance to practical situations. Personal Abilities: (d) Cognitive skills, the learner will be able to: Transfer theoretical and practical problem-solving skills to a variety of contexts. Apply statistical and numerical skills. Critically review and assess material. Recognise, evaluate and comment critically upon alternative points of view. 21

22 (e) Core skills, the learner will be able to: Communicate and present ideas effectively by written means. Work independently. Plan and organise own learning through self-management. (f) Professional Awareness, the learner will be able to: Demonstrate an interest in current developments in accountancy and finance and cognate areas. Take responsibility for personal, professional and social-awareness development. Respond proactively to the changing societal role of the accountant and specialists in cognate areas Structure See pages 23 and Award Requirements The award of Degree requires 360 credits and a minimum of Grade D in all three mandatory modules at Stage 3 plus an additional module or modules (if synoptically-linked), so that at least four modules at SCQF level 9 are passed at Grade D or better. Therefore, students must obtain by formal assessment (i.e. examination not exemption) a Grade D, or above, in the following modules: Auditing/Contemporary Issues in Financial Accounting Management Accounting Techniques and Decisions Plus, students must obtain by formal assessment (i.e. examination not exemption) a Grade D, or above, in a minimum of one (i.e. 15 credits) of the following synoptically-linked or stand-alone modules (indicated by * below): Corporate Finance 1/Corporate Finance 2 Operations Management 1/Operations Management 2 Securities Markets 1/Securities Markets 2 Strategic Management/International Strategic Management Consumer Behaviour* Employment Law* International Financial Markets* Project Management* Taxation* Where a student obtains a Grade A in no less than six out of eight modules completed at Stage 3, the examination board will consider whether to make the award of Bachelor of Arts in Accountancy and Finance with Distinction. 22

23 Bachelor of Arts in Accountancy and Finance Arrangement of Modules Mandatory Modules Optional Modules Elective Modules Awards, Credits and Levels Introduction to Accounting 1 and Introduction to Accounting 2 Stage 1 (SCQF level 7) 8 mandatory Introduction to Economics 1 and Introduction to Economics 2 Introduction to Finance 1 and Introduction to Banking and Financial Services Introduction to Management 1 and Introduction to Management 2 Certificate of Higher Education 120 credits, all at SCQF level 7 Stage 2 (SCQF level 8) 2 mandatory + 6 elective Finance Theory and Markets 1 and Finance Theory and Markets 2 Financial Accounting and Management Accounting Quantitative Methods 1 and Quantitative Methods 2 Minimum of 30 credits (selected from Table 2) Diploma of Higher Education 240 credits, at least 90 of which are at SCQF level 8 Stage 3 (SCQF level 9) 3 mandatory + 2 optional + 3 elective Auditing and Contemporary Issues in Financial Accounting Management Accounting Techniques and Decisions Minimum of 30 credits (selected from Table 3A) Minimum of 45 credits (selected from Tables 2, 3A and 3B), with a maximum of 30 credits from Table 2 Ordinary Degree 360 credits, at least 90 of which are at SCQF level 9 23

24 Optional Modules Table 3A (Stage 3) Corporate Finance 1 and Corporate Finance 2 Securities Markets 1 and Securities Markets 2 Notes Modules synoptically linked for assessment purposes both SCQF level 9 (30 credits) Modules synoptically linked for assessment purposes both SCQF level 9 (30 credits) Elective Modules Table 2 (Stage 2) Organisational Behaviour and Human Resource Management Introduction to Marketing 1 and Introduction to Marketing 2 Commercial Law 1 and Commercial Law 2 Table 3B (Stage 3) Operations Management 1 and Operations Management 2 Strategic Management and International Strategic Management Consumer Behaviour Employment Law International Financial Markets Project Management Taxation Notes Modules synoptically linked for assessment purposes both SCQF level 8 (30 credits) Modules synoptically linked for assessment purposes both SCQF level 8 (30 credits) Modules synoptically linked for assessment purposes both SCQF level 8 (30 credits) Notes Modules synoptically linked for assessment purposes both SCQF level 9 (30 credits) Modules synoptically linked for assessment purposes both SCQF level 9 (30 credits) SCQF level 9 (15 credits) SCQF level 9 (15 credits) SCQF level 9 (15 credits) SCQF level 9 (15 credits) SCQF level 9 (15 credits) 24

25 4.2.4 BA Business and Finance In order to attain this qualification, eight modules from each stage are required. Seventeen modules are mandatory and seven can be chosen from a group of elective modules Aims and Objectives The BA Business and Finance degree aims to allow students to study both business and finance to a high level at Heriot-Watt University. The course is structured for students to study the core Stage 1 module sets and later to specialise in business and finance subjects at higher levels. Students who graduate with a degree in Business and Finance will pursue a wide range of potential careers in industry; commerce; the financial sector, including banking, capital markets and financial services and with international agencies requiring a knowledge of business and financial affairs. Among the many possible occupations would be business management, marketing, personnel management, banking, commodity dealing and broking; and financial and investment analysis Educational Aims of the Course The course aims to enable learners to: Develop knowledge, understanding and subject skills in the areas of finance and those related to the principles and practice of modern business management for employment in a variety of careers in commerce, industry (particularly banking and finance), education and public administration. Attain professional qualifications by maximising opportunities for exemptions awarded by professional accountancy bodies. Develop subject interests. Gain a firm foundation, through the Heriot-Watt Management Programme common structure in Stage One, in key areas of accountancy and finance, economics and management to give flexibility of choice in selecting a course to suit their interests and career aspirations. Develop personal and attitudes for employment in a variety of careers and preparedness for lifelong learning and personal development Learning Outcomes Subject Mastery: (a) Understanding and Knowledge, the learner will be able to: Develop knowledge and understanding of the main areas of management: Marketing, Organisational Behaviour, Human Resource Management, Operations Management, Quantitative Methods, Business Policy, and International Strategic Management. Develop knowledge and understanding of the main theories and practice of modern finance including: capital markets, corporate finance, and control issues within a UK and international context. Develop specialist knowledge and understanding in areas of finance as chosen from a wide range of options including Security Analysis and Derivatives Applications, Securities Markets, Security Topics and Issues, Corporate Governance and Control, Corporate Issues in Finance, Advanced Corporate Finance. Acquire knowledge and understanding of the statistical techniques that are appropriate to business and finance analysis. Acquire knowledge and understanding of the principles of economics and accountancy. (b) Subject- Specific skills, the learner will be able to: Critically analyse and evaluate subject material and prevailing business and finance paradigms. Compile and synthesise business and finance data from a variety of sources. Formulate personal opinions and conclusions supported by evidence. Apply principles and concepts to practical business and finance situations. Personal Abilities: (a) Cognitive skills, the learner will be able to: Transfer theoretical and practical problem skills to a variety of situations. Critically review and assess material. Recognise, evaluate and comment upon alternative points of view. 25