BA (Hons) in Business Administration

Transcription

1 1 BA (Hons) in Business Administration Course Handbook 2012/13 Definitive January 2011

2 Contents 2 WELCOME TO THE COURSE... 4 AND WELCOME TO THE UNIVERSITY OF WESTMINSTER... 5 THE INDUCTION PROGRAMME... 6 KEY DATES... 6 ACADEMIC YEAR STRUCTURE AND CALENDAR... 7 PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION... 8 COURSE RECORD INFORMATION... 8 ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS... 9 AGE REQUIREMENT... 9 ACCREDITATION OF PRIOR CERTIFIED LEARNING (APCL) AIMS OF THE COURSE EMPLOYMENT AND FURTHER STUDY OPPORTUNITIES LEARNING OUTCOMES COURSE LEARNING OUTCOMES LEARNING, TEACHING AND ASSESSMENT LEARNING AND TEACHING ASSESSMENT COURSE STRUCTURE PROGRESSION REQUIREMENTS SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS Tutorial and Student Support Counselling and Advisory Service Student Housing Services Student Health Service Students Union Support through office hours REFERENCE POINTS FOR THE COURSE Internally Externally QUALITY MANAGEMENT AND ENHANCEMENT Course Management Course approval, monitoring and review Student involvement in Quality Assurance and Enhancement ABOUT YOUR COURSE HOW TO CONTACT US CONTACT DETAILS PERSONAL TUTOR ARRANGEMENTS What can I expect from my PT? What can I not expect from my PT? WHO TO CONTACT ABOUT MODULE QUERIES HOW YOU ARE TAUGHT THE TEACHING AND LEARNING STRATEGY THE COURSE SKILLS STRATEGY Specific Business Skills Transferable Skills WIUT ON-LINE LEARNING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM STUDY ABROAD AND EXCHANGE OPPORTUNITIES HOW YOU LEARN GUIDED INDEPENDENT STUDY STUDY GUIDANCE THE LIBRARY AND IT SERVICES IT PROVISION PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT PLANNING (PDP) PDP WORKSHOPS HOW YOU WILL BE ASSESSED... 37

3 3 4.1 THE ASSESSMENT STRATEGY FOR THE COURSE Working Together Cheating in exams or in-class tests GUIDANCE ON THE PROJECT/DISSERTATION MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD THE COURSE COMMITTEE HOW COURSE REPRESENTATIVES WILL BE SELECTED FEEDBACK FROM THE COURSE COMMITTEE MODULE FEEDBACK QUESTIONNAIRES WHY COMPLETE THEM? STUDENT EXPERIENCE SURVEY WHAT TO DO IF THINGS GO WRONG MITIGATING CIRCUMSTANCES PENALTIES FOR LATE SUBMISSION OF COURSEWORK WHAT TO DO IF YOU FAIL SUSPENDING FROM THE COURSE WITHDRAWING FROM THE COURSE CHANGING COURSE COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE COURSE REGULATIONS HOW YOUR DEGREE IS CLASSIFIED INTERMEDIATE AWARDS BA (Hons) in Business Administration Diploma of Higher Education in Business Administration Certificate of Higher Education in Business Administration MAXIMUM PERIODS OF REGISTRATION EXCLUSION FROM THE PROGRAMME OF STUDY ON ACADEMIC GROUNDS YOUR RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES AS A STUDENT MODULE PROFORMAS SECTION 10: WESTMINSTER INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY IN TASHKENT APPENDIX 1. GLOSSARY OF COMMONLY USED REGULATORY TERMS (UNDERGRADUATE COURSES) Every effort is made to ensure that the information given in this Course Handbook is correct at the time of publication and that the course information given accurately describes the courses offered by the University. The University reserves the right to cancel, without prior notice, either a course, modules or specialisms within a course.

4 Welcome to the Course Welcome to Westminster International University in Tashkent (WIUT) and to the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Business Administration, a validated course of the University of Westminster, London. The purpose of this handbook is to explain to you the main details of the course. Some of the information may appear complex and daunting at first sight, but as you become used to the University and the course you will find it more useful. We want you to feel confident in the course and hope this handbook will help you understand how the course is structured, the assessment procedures, the course management and other vital aspects of your programme. It is important that you retain this handbook throughout your time at the University. The Course Handbook should be read in conjunction with the general WIUT booklet Essential Information: Undergraduate Students Guide which contains vital information on University regulations, procedures and facilities. Copies of this booklet should be available in the library. Being a student can be an enjoyable experience - despite all the pressures, it is a unique opportunity for you to discover your own strengths and to capitalise on them. This time will remain in your memories with warm thoughts and many friends you make here will stay with you for a long time. You will find that your colleagues on the course have varied backgrounds, abilities, hopes and aspirations. We hope you will gain useful life experiences and knowledge from the interaction with your fellow students as you progress in the course. For some of you, your aim at the end of the course will be to gain an interesting and worthwhile job, for others it will be to continue your studies to degree, masters or research level. The University provides many opportunities to help you both in your studies and in your personal development, but the final responsibility for learning rests with you. We strive to create an academic environment in which you are continually challenged and inspired to do your best possible work. We can only do that with your effort and ambition. It is a partnership between all of us - you, the lecturers and the University. So let us work together to achieve our aim and to make your time here an enjoyable and valuable experience. 4 Odilbek Kattaev Course Leader WIUT

5 And Welcome to the University of Westminster You are a student of both the Westminster International University and the University of Westminster. I would like to welcome you as a student of both Universities but in particular as an employee of the University of Westminster. WIUT and the University of Westminster are partners, WIUT is not a campus or branch of the University of Westminster, it is an independent Uzbekistan public university, the Rector being appointed by the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan. I am appointed by the Vice Chancellor of the University of Westminster to work in WIUT as the 1 st Deputy Rector (Academic). I have many colleagues in the University of Westminster who are responsible for ensuring you are able to progress your studies. In particular each course has a Liaison Tutor who you may meet at WIUT, they make regular visits to Tashkent, to ensure you are being treated fairly and to ensure WIUT is able to deliver to the standards expected. The University of Westminster is a public National University of the United Kingdom and its main campus is situated in London. The University of Westminster like all other UK Universities has the power to validate its awards in other countries such as Uzbekistan. You have been enrolled on such an award and will be allocated a student record number, a unique number, on the University of Westminster Student Record system. All your assessment results will be stored on this system and if you successfully pass all the requirements you will be able to graduate with a University of Westminster Award, at the appropriate level. This will be the same award as students who study in London. Staff employed by WIUT will teach you and you will be subject to the disciplinary rules and regulations of WIUT. For your academic studies the rules and regulations are those of the University of Westminster. In practice you should not notice any difference, all my colleagues at WIUT understand this relationship and give you advice if you are confused. You are however responsible for your own performance and learning, for your own discipline and behaviour, we are here to help and will do so if needed. I was appointed to work with my WIUT colleagues to help develop and build a unique and strong university. WIUT is still a young university but it has been able to offer high quality courses, built on a high standard of integrity and honesty that you will be expected to observe. It provides a unique experience in Uzbekistan and Central Asia, an Uzbekistan University offering International standards of education, built on the traditions, values and standards of UK education, and the particular expertise of the University of Westminster. I hope you will be proud to be a student of the University of Westminster as well as WIUT. I am proud to work at WIUT for the University of Westminster. 5 Alan P. France 1 st Deputy Rector (Academic)

6 6 The induction programme The induction programme is seen as an integral part of the learning process and will operate during the week prior to commencement of lectures in Semester 1. The main aim of induction programme is to introduce students to the University, to the Course, to the facilities that they will immediately make use of, and to the course structure. Responsibility for organising the Induction programme rests with the course leaders and the course team. The primary objective of the induction is to icebreak within the students groups and between the students and tutors. It will also help them to overcome language barrier students may have. Games, simulations and other exercises will be used to break the ice and help to build a team spirit. This programme is very important as some of the students will be entering direct into the degree programmes, whereas others will come from the foundation programme (Certificate of International Foundation Studies, level 3) and will therefore have a better understanding of the system and principles of WIUT. The induction programme gives you the opportunity to get settled in and familiarize yourself with the University and your course. Once lectures have started all of you will have busy time attending lectures and seminars as well as meeting the deadlines of various assignments. So induction is a good chance for you to get to know each other and make initial contact with your classmates. Key dates The normal duration of study for full-time bachelor students is three academic years. Each academic year lasts about 34 weeks and is divided into two semesters, the first running from September to February and the second running from February to June. Each semester normally consists of 13 teaching weeks followed by assessment weeks. In-course-work assignments are given to students normally in the beginning of modules. Each student should be aware of the deadlines for assignments. For this purpose students are advised to regularly visit the University Intranet and check their University s. To provide a broader support in learning, during academic year students are offered series of Personal Development Planning workshops organised by Faculty staff. Students are highly recommended attending these workshops in order to acquire necessary transferable skills. The dates of the trainings will be announced by your Personal Tutor. Academic year structure and calendar The normal duration of study for full-time bachelors students is three years. Each academic year lasts 34 weeks and is divided into two semesters as follows: Semester Dates 2012/2013 Semester 1: Enrolment/Induction week Monday, 24/09/2012 Friday, 28/09/2012 Teaching Weeks 1 13 Monday, 01/10/2012 Friday, 28/12/2012 New Year Holiday Monday, 31/12/2012 Friday, 04/01/2013 Assessment Week Monday, 07/01/2013 Friday, 11/01/ 2013 Semester 2: Teaching Weeks 1 13 Monday, 28/01/ Friday, 26/04/2013 (13 weeks) Assessment Weeks Monday, 29/04/2013 Friday, 10/05/2013 Assessment Board Weeks Tuesday, 04/06/2013 Thursday, 13/06/2013 Publication of Results Week commencing on 1July 2012

7 Semester 9: GIS Weeks Monday, 24/06/2013 Friday, 28/06/2013 Referral Exam weeks Referral CW deadlines Monday, 08/07/2013 Friday, 19/07/ Within this structure, a more detailed breakdown is issued every academic year, which contains dates for teaching weeks, GIS weeks and formal holiday breaks.

8 PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION 8 Course Record Information Name and level of final & intermediate Awards Awarding Body Location of Delivery Mode of Study UW Course Code BA (Hons) Business Administration BA Business Administration DipHE Business Administration CertHE Business Administration University of Westminster WIUT, Tashkent, Uzbekistan Full-time BAUSBAU JACS Code UCAS Code QAA Subject Benchmarking Group Professional Body Accreditation Business M University of Westminster Date of initial course approval/last review Sept 2003/ January 2007 Date of Programme Specification April 2010

9 Admission Requirements Entry requirements for the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Business Administration have been set in order to select potential students who have proven academic ability and are able to demonstrate a solid foundation of skills in both Mathematics and English. The admissions policy aims to attract and recruit motivated applicants across the full range of possible access routes. Students may have a background in any academic discipline. We encourage applications from students with disabilities. The admissions policy follows the equal opportunities policies of the University of Westminster. The over-riding principle upon which admission decisions are based is that applicants should be likely to benefit from, and succeed on, the course. Intending students will have to meet age, English language, Mathematics and general requirements: 9 Age Requirement Normally applicants will be at least 18 years old at the date of enrolment. For the purpose of this regulation the academic year runs from 1 st October to 30 th September English Language and Mathematics Requirement Applicants must: Have had their secondary educations through the medium of English and gained grade C or above in the equivalent of GCSE English; or Have an IELTS score of 6 with a minimum of 6 in the writing component or the equivalent score at TOEFL or other University of Westminster recognised English Test according to the WIUT/UoW conversion table; or Have successfully completed an appropriate International Foundation course and passed an Academic English Language module. Applicants must have an acceptable level of competence in Mathematics. This could be demonstrated by one of the following: A pass in an maths test approved by the University of Westminster; or Grade C or above in GCSE/ O Level Mathematics (or its equivalent); or A pass in Quantitative Methods on an appropriate Foundation course. General Requirements Applicants must have studied a broad range of subjects and have a school leaving certificate equivalent to GCSE/ O Level e.g the Uzbek Certificate of Secondary Education (Attestat) normally with an average of 70%. In addition applicants should satisfy at a minimum one of the following requirements, namely: Successfully completion of an appropriate International Foundation course which includes a pass on an English for Academic purposes module or equivalent; or Successful completion of the WIUT Lyceum s Attestat, and the WIUT International Foundation, course including the module English for Academic Purpose; Successful completion (an minimum of an average mark of 70%) of the first year of an appropriate degree course in a recognised Uzbek or similar university; or Two GCE A level passes (in any subject excluding mother tongue), plus three GCSE passes at grade C or above including English Language and Mathematics; or NC/ND or HNC/HND. (The range of academic disciplines studied is not hereby restricted, but certain vocational courses such

10 as City and Guilds would not satisfy the admissions requirements.); or An Advanced General National Vocational Qualification (GNVQ); or Any other equivalent qualification normally accepted as entry requirements (e.g. International Baccalaureate, etc). 10 Accreditation of Prior Certified Learning (APCL) If an applicant has certificate(s) or credits from previous undergraduate courses of internationally recognised universities they may refer to Accreditation of Prior Certified Learning (APCL) process approved by the University of Westminster and qualify for exemption from modules. Making a claim for APCL is an applicant s responsibility and s/he is recommended to contact the Course Leader or the Dean s Office for further advice. The overall programme aims are to produce technologically skilled professionals who can understand the business challenges of an enterprise and conceive and manage solutions, which are ICT dependent. This course is designed to produce graduates who will be able to integrate their ICT skills with their knowledge of business operations and environments to support an enterprise to achieve competitive advantage.. Aims of the Course The aim of the BA (Honours) in Business Administration course is to give students an education in the key areas of the discipline of business, providing understanding of underpinning theories, tools and techniques, fitting them to gain employment in a business environment or to proceed to further study. The aims of the course are: To produce graduates who understand the rapidly changing world of business and its role in the wider society To develop the knowledge, skills and capabilities graduates require to respond proactively to contemporary issues and the challenges of the business environment To equip graduates with the knowledge, understanding and academic skills to continue to postgraduate study To produce graduates who are confident in developing the personal and intellectual attributes necessary for success in employment To encourage students to reflect on the knowledge, values and assumptions that underpin their understanding of business and business management To encourage students to reflect on the impact of their own actions and that of others on the world of business and the wider society To provide students with the opportunity to specialize in a functional area of business within a broad-based business context To promote the practical skills of processing information, identifying and formulating problems, analysing business environments and applying business management skills To introduce, explain and apply the functions of the marketing, human resource, information management, and finance departments within a modern business environment.

11 11 Employment and Further Study Opportunities The course is designed for those who wish to enter business-related employment or to continue into postgraduate education. Students completing the BA (Honours) in Business Administration will have enough knowledge and transferable skills to begin employment in both local and international companies operating in Uzbekistan, Central Asia and beyond. They should also have the confidence and knowledge to set up their own business if they wish. Learning Outcomes Learning outcomes are statements on what successful students have achieved as the result of learning. They are threshold statements of achievement and are linked to the knowledge, understanding and skills that a student will have gained on successfully completing a course. Course Learning Outcomes Learning outcomes are statements on what successful students have achieved as the result of learning. They are threshold statements of achievement and are linked to the knowledge, understanding and skills that a student will have gained on successfully completing a course. 1. Understand at a deep level theoretical, frameworks in business and apply them to real-world practice; 2. Critically evaluate business models and being able to measure them with the use of empirical methods in order to select an appropriate one; 3. Be able to prepare a research proposal on a chosen topic and make research within given time constraints; 4. Develop deep knowledge and expertise in the chosen areas of business; 5. Develop a range of skills which are subject-specific, but highly transferable. Level 4 Knowledge and understanding o To demonstrate a general knowledge and understanding of the core principles and concepts of business and their application in practice. o To possess working knowledge of the key core functional areas of business, namely accounting, marketing, human resources and information management. o To show an awareness of ethical issues in own studies and relate these to both their own personal values and the implications within a business context Specific skills o To describe and use personal and technological communication methods o To understand the impact of law on business relationship and show an awareness of ethical issues in relation to personal beliefs and values o To understand the underpinning principles and current practice of marketing and apply them to business problems o To understand and use common accounting systems and external financial reporting used in business o To understand the application of information systems to functional areas of business o To access, and utilise qualitative and quantitative information for effective use in solving

12 o business problems To understand the key aspects of the performance of people in organizations in relation to own experience 12 Key transferable skills/other attributes o Communication in writing through clear, relevant, interesting and accurate articulation o Taking responsibility for learning and working in an adaptable and flexible manner. o The production of work in appropriate word-processed format o Reflection on own learning and making use of feedback o The management of information and document exchanges by o Communication orally through clear, relevant, interesting and accurate articulation o Researching using the world wide web & electronic retrieval systems o Working co-operatively, constructively and effectively with others o Time management and personal development. Level 5 Knowledge and understanding Build on the Knowledge and Understanding achieved at level 4 o To be able to perform management research o To apply theory to integrated business practice o To evaluate the impact of business on the wider social environment in relation to more general ethical perspectives Specific skills o To critically examine the economic operations of markets for goods, services and resources and how this affects business activities o To critically examine the inter-relationships between market positioning and the management of operations to deliver value to customers within performance constraints o To equip students with the quantitative and qualitative techniques used in business management research o To provide students with a knowledge of valuation techniques, long-term investment and financial decisions o To introduce students to the practices of HR in modern organizations Key transferable skills/other attributes o Thinking creatively, imaginatively and in abstract terms o Reflection on own learning and making use of feedback o A development of working co-operatively, constructively and effectively with others Level 6 Knowledge and understanding

13 13 Build on the Knowledge and Understanding achieved at levels 4 and 5 o Business leadership and conceptualisations. o Business awareness and career planning. o Project definition, development, planning, implementation and evaluation. o Critique theoretical frameworks and apply to practice o Understand the importance of, and apply, personal, corporate and professional responsibility Specific skills o To possess a cross-cultural perspective on the operational and strategic position of organisations o To be able to critically examine contemporary issues influencing business thinking and behaviour o To be able to critically evaluate alternative policies and strategies a company may adopt to meet stakeholder needs within changing internal and external environments. Key transferable skills/other attributes o Working independently. o Providing motivation and leadership skills, relevant to an economy in transition. Key transferable skills/other attributes developed during the course Cognitive critically analyse theories, concepts and problems formulate a complex argument within a theoretical and contextual framework challenge received opinion and use own criteria and judgement CIT select and use most appropriate CIT tools for self-determined task Numeracy use quantitative information to verify and extend existing theory Research develop and implement own research strategy, working with a minimum of guidance critically review those aspects of current research relevant to self-determined research topic Decision-making evaluate options within the limitation of imperfect and incomplete information Communication engage in debate in a professional manner, using communication to persuade and convince Teamwork work effectively as a member of a team, negotiating in a professional manner and managing conflict continually reflect on the group process to improve group effectiveness

14 14 Personal Awareness and Career Management initiate own activity, plan and manage own time effectively over a project reflect on outcomes, processes, the experience of others and personal experience to improve performance Learning, Teaching and Assessment Teaching, Learning and Assessment Strategy of the BA (Hons) in Business Administration course fits to the Learning, Teaching and Assessment Strategy of the University of Westminster and is set up so that to be aligned with the stated aims and learning outcomes within each module. Learning and Teaching Most modules include a formal taught component with lectures provided on a weekly basis. Tutorial seminar classes are also provided each week to provide a stimulating environment for students to work through examples and case studies, experiment with hands-on solutions in the labs, engage in group discussions or on-line discussions, and gain immediate feedback and support from tutors. In addition, students are provided with a range of additional resources including online discussion forums to encourage student-centred learning. The resources can be accessed through the University Intranet, textbooks, academic journals and other materials available in the University s Library, and software systems. Teaching staff are often engaged in research or commercial activities, and this ensures that the students gain an understanding of contemporary business issues. Working with industry in a real-life situation is invaluable in developing professional skills but also in raising confidence. Interacting with the workplace while studying help students prepare for a future career but also help them reflect on your knowledge and be more aware of how this fits with the developing needs of industry. The course is designed to offer opportunities to engage with industry before graduation, so that the students can develop skills alongside the ones you get from the rest of your course. These opportunities can be a formal part of your course, such as doing an internment within your course or attending talks giving by guest speakers from industry. You will also, however, be able to engage with industry by interacting with the professional community, working on assessments drawn from real-life examples, and engaging with your area s professional bodies. Students are encouraged to learn independently throughout their studies. This may be in the form of literature review or research to support their assignments and projects. There are also guided Independent study periods when are encouraged to interact with their tutors and lecturers for advise and guidance and take responsibility for their on learning. Assessment The Assessment Strategy of the Course is based on the criterion-referenced assessment concept, which is designed to assess changes in performance as a result of learning, for the purpose of seeing what and how well material has been learned. The course strives to develop effective approaches to assessment, both formative and summative, taking into consideration the variety of modules within the course such as level, length and type of the module. The assessment strategy is based on principles of best practice such as validity in purpose (to measure the learning outcomes), reliability and free of bias (by the use of carefully designed marking scheme), as well as constructive and timely feedback to students

15 Course Structure This section shows the core and option modules available as part of the course and their credit value. Full-time Undergraduate students normally study 120 credits per year. The BA (Honours) Business Administration programme is based around the core constituents of a business environment, namely finance and accounting, marketing, management. BA (Hons) in Business Administration consists of three types of the modules: core, optional and free choice. All students must take core modules and full-time students study from 6 to 8 modules worth in total 120 credits per year. Types of the modules: Core. These are modules that must be undertaken by all students on the course. They provide the fundamental skills and knowledge on which to base your future careers and must be passed for the award of the degree. Option. These are modules that can be chosen from the course specific list of modules. These modules allow you to pick modules that best fit your own aspirations while still providing a cognate business studies-oriented curriculum. Free choice. A free choice module, of which you may take one at level 4, 5, and 6, may be chosen from other courses offered by WIUT. A free choice can be one of the listed option modules, but it usually is a module from one of the other course offered at the University. Free choices are subject to availability and the approval by the relevant module leader and your Course Leader. All modules on the course are worth 15 credits and some of them 30 credits. 15-credit modules should normally be completed in a single semester of study, while 30-credit modules should be completed within one academic year of study. 15 Code Module Title Status Semester Credits Credit Level 4 BUZB400 Environment of Business Core EUZC405 Data Analysis & Information Management in Core 1+2 Business 30 2UZB401 Organisational Behaviour Core UZB404 Business Communications Core UZB403 Fundamentals of Finance and Accounting Core credit option / free choice modules to be chosen in semester 2 2UZB409 Introduction to Web Publishing Option UZB407 Alternative Dispute Resolution Option UZE402 Free 2 Industrial Organization 1 Choice 15 Award of Certificate of Higher Education available Credit Level 5 BUZB500 Cost and Financial Management Core

16 BUZB512 Human Resource Management Core BUZB522 Advanced Topics in Marketing Core UZB511 Creating and Delivering Customer Value Option UZB503 Research Methods Core option module to be chosen in semester UZE507 Money and Banking Option UZB505 Consumer Behaviour Option 2 15 BUZB524 Professional Practice Learning from Work Option 1 15 EUZC508 Information Systems Management Option UZB609 Cultural Differences and People Management Option 1 15 BUZB523 Retail Management Option 1 15 Award of Diploma of Higher Education available Credit Level 6 2UZB699 Business Project Core BUZB615 Strategy in Complex World Core credit option + 15 option / free choice modules to be chosen in semester 1 15 credit option + 15 option / free choice modules to be chosen in semester 2 2UZB612 Developing a Small Business Option UZB610 Project Management Option 1 15 BUZB616 Strategic Marketing Option UZB609 Cultural Differences and People Management Option UZB605 Fixed Interest Securities and Related Derivatives Option UZB607 Marketing Research Option UZB603 Marketing Communications Option UZB606 International Accounting Standards Option UZB614 Knowledge Innovation and New Product Development Option 2 4UZE605 International Business Finance Option UZE611 Investment and Risk Management Option UZB604 Strategic Management Accounting and Performance Measurement Award of BA/ BA (Hons) available NB: Not all option modules will necessarily be offered in any one year. 15 Option 2 15

17 17 Students will have to attempt and achieve a qualifying mark of 30% in the specified assessment element in addition to achieving an overall module pass mark of 40% or above. When a mark for a component is below 30%, then the module is not deemed to be passed even when the average between the components is over 40%. Progression requirements The BA in Business Administration and its intermediate awards operate in accordance with the Academic Regulations of the University Westminster and the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland published by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA). All students should make sure that they have and keep for reference a copy of the current edition of the general University handbook called Essential Information for Undergraduate students 2011/12. The following course specific requirements should be read in conjunction with the Modular Framework for Undergraduate Courses and relevant sections of the current Handbook of Academic Regulations. A Pass in a module is achieved when the overall mark is at least 40% and the marks for aggregated components (e.g. coursework and exam) are individually at least 30%. Condoned Credit A student may be awarded condoned credit at Level 4 only, where he/she has achieved: a) an overall module mark of greater than or equal to 30% but less than 40%; b) an overall mark of 40% or greater but not reached the required qualifying mark(s) and/or qualifying set(s) as detailed in the course or module handbook; and c) attempted all referred assessment as offered by the Assessment Board. Where a student, following a referral opportunity, is awarded condoned credit, the recorded module mark will be capped at 39%. Condoned credit will count towards any credit limits for specified awards. Where a student is awarded condoned credit in a module but subsequently achieves an overall pass within a retake module, credit may contribute only once to an award. Progression To progress from Level 3 to Level 4 and from Level 4 to Level 5 in full time study, a student must achieve an average of 40% across 120 credits; to progress from Level 5 to Level 6 full-time study, a student must pass at least 165 credits, including 75 credits at Level 5 All core modules should be passed. Award To qualify for the award of BA (Hons) Business Administration, a student must: a) Obtained at least 360 credits including: - passed 75 credits at Level Four or higher and achieved at least a condoned credit in each of the remaining modules worth 45 credits at Level 4; and - a minimum of 120 Credits at Level 5 or higher; and - a minimum of 120 credits at Level 6 or higher. b) Attempted modules with a maximum value of 330 credits at Levels 5 and 6 c) Satisfied the requirements contained within any course specific regulations for the relevant course Scheme.

18 18 The class of the Honours degree awarded is decided by two criteria: the average of the best 105 credits passed at Level 6 being in the range of the class to be awarded, and the average of the next best 105 credits passed at Levels 5 and 6 provided the next best 105 credits passed are no more than one classification below this. Support for Students On arrival, an induction programme will introduce students to the staff responsible for the course, the campus on which they will be studying, the Library and IT facilities and to the Campus Administration. Students will be provided with the Course Handbook, which provides detailed information about the course. Learning support includes the Library, which holds printed collections of books and journal subscriptions. Access to electronic resources such as WestLaw, SpringerLink, JSTOR, EBSCO, and BLACKWELL is also available. There are over 100 computers spread over four computer labs available for students use. The University uses a Virtual Learning Environment where students can access course materials and communicate with staff and other students via message boards. At University level, student services provide advice and guidance on accommodation, financial and legal matters, personal counselling, health and disability issues, and careers. The Social Development Department provides particular support for international students. The WIUT s Student Union also provides a range of facilities to support all students during their time at the University. Tutorial and Student Support All undergraduate students at the Westminster International University in Tashkent, in common with every student of the University of Westminster, have access to the University's student academic and personal support system for students. All students are allocated to a named individual who is their Personal Tutor.

19 There are the following University wide support services: 19 Counselling and Advisory Service Students are allocated an individual Personal Tutor at the start of semester one of the programme. Personal tutors are selected from amongst the course teaching team. Personal Tutors aim is to provide his/her tutees a quality counselling and advisory service whenever there is a need for this. Social Development team also provides counselling and advisory services for students., including, the career services, that give students a chance to look at a variety of opportunities, starting from an advice and assistance on building plans for the future career, and ending with getting a part-time employment to cover their own living expenses. Plus for those who are required to undertake military service the Social Development Team can also help. In addition, this department provides assistance for students coming from other regions of Uzbekistan as well as other countries with their passport and other related procedures. Student Housing Services Because of the vast diversity of students in terms of where they come from, the University offers accommodation for regional and international students. In addition to all the necessary conditions, the dormitory has Gym, where any student can spend his/her leisure time. Moreover, computer labs with an access to Internet offer the students a chance to continue their academic assignments offcampus. Student Health Service A Health Department is available on the University and provides the students an immediate point of help should there be a need for this. Professional staff of this department also offers students counselling of a medical type. Students Union The aim of the Union is to provide a range of essential services as well as assisting students in their sporting and social life. The Union gives help and advice on academic and personal matters and represents students on all University Committees, to organise sport, societies and entertainment. Support through office hours Given the favourable ratio of teacher to student, an advantage of studying at WIUT is that students have ample opportunity to work with the academic staff of university in one to one basis during office hours of Faculty staff. Office hours of each faculty staff involved in the academic delivery process are normally announced on the module web-site in the WIUT intranet and information boards as well as within in-course assessment instructions. Reference Points for the course Internally The BA (Honours) Business Administration programme draws upon the Mission Statement of the University of Westminster and its international remit. It seeks to establish the quality and good practice in teaching and learning that is articulated throughout the University's policies and to promulgate those practices abroad. Since the initial validation, the scholarly activities of the WIUT staff have built on and influenced the breadth of the curriculum on offer and have affected the teaching and learning methodologies which are shared across the two participating countries (UK and Uzbekistan). Externally The external reference points for the programme are the QAA subject benchmarks particularly the QAA Subject Benchmark Statement for General Business & Management and Computing.

20 20 This document sets out the nature and characteristics of the programme and represents general expectations about the standards for the award of qualifications at a given level and articulates the attributes and capabilities that those possessing such qualifications should be able to demonstrate Attention has also been given to Curriculum Guidelines for Undergraduate Degree Programs in Information Systems, done by Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) and Association for Information Systems (AIS). IS 2009 is the latest in a series of model curricula for undergraduate degrees in Information Systems. It builds on the foundation formed by this earlier work, but it is a major revision of the curriculum and incorporates several significant new characteristics. IS 2009 is the third collaborative effort by ACM and AIS. Both organizations have worldwide membership, and therefore, IS 2009 includes elements that make it more universally adaptable than its predecessors. IS 2009 is not directly linked to a degree structure in any specific environment but it provides guidance regarding the core content of the curriculum that should be present everywhere and suggestions regarding possible electives and career tracks based on those. Copies of the report are available from ACM and AIS: Quality Management and Enhancement Course Management The Course Leader is responsible for the overall academic management and organisation of the course. Course approval, monitoring and review A University Validation Panel approved the course in April The Panel included internal peers from the University and external subject specialists from academia and industry to ensure the comparability of the course to those offered in other Universities and the relevance to employers. Periodic Course Review helps to ensure that the curriculum is up-to-date and that the skills gained on the course continue to be relevant to employers. The course is monitored each year by the Faculty to ensure that it is running effectively and that issues that might affect the student experience have been appropriately addressed. Staff will consider the outcomes from each Course Committee, evidence of student progression and achievement and the reports from External Examiners to evaluate the effectiveness of the course. The Academic Standards Group of WIUT audits this process and the outcomes are reported to the Academic Council of WIUT and to the UoW, London. The Liaison tutor A Liaison tutor is appointed by the University of Westminster to provide support to both staff and students at WIUT. The liaison tutor s role is to ensure that students studying at WIUT receive the same information, standard of teaching as those students studying in London, including having similar standards of assignments and examinations. The liaison tutor will usually visit WIUT twice a year and during their visit will hold meetings with WIUT students to discuss their views on their programme and any other issues of concern. The liaison tutor will attend the assessment Boards held at WIUT and also moderate the work of students prior to the work being presented to the external examiner. Student involvement in Quality Assurance and Enhancement Student feedback is important to the University and student comment is taken seriously. Student feedback is gathered in a variety of ways. The most formal mechanism for feedback on the course is the course committee. Student representatives will be elected to sit on the committee to represent the views of their peer group in the discussions held at the committee. The University and the Students Union work together to provide a full induction to the role of the Course Committee.

21 21 Course Committee Meetings are held normally 4 times a year - 2 meetings in each Semester according to the following schedule: Semester 1 Semester 2 CCM # 1 CCM # 2 CCM # 3 CCM # 4 TW 4 TW 11 TW 4 TW 11 Students are asked to complete a Module Feedback questionnaire at the end of each module. The feedback from this will inform the Module Leader on the effectiveness of the module and highlight areas that could be enhanced. The University also administers an annual Course Evaluation Questionnaire, which provides valuable feedback about a range of University services. Students meet with Review Panels when the periodic review of the course is conducted to provide oral feedback on their experience on the course. Student feedback from course Committees and the University s internal surveys are part of the Faculty quality assurance evidence base. For more information about this course: University web site: General queries: info@wiut.uz Admission queries: advice@wiut.uz Please note This programme specification provides a concise summary of the main features of the course and the learning outcomes that a student might reasonably be expected to achieve and demonstrate if s/he takes full advantage of the learning opportunities that are provided. This specification should be read in conjunction with the Course Handbook provided to students and Module Handbooks which provide more detailed information on the specific learning outcomes, content, teaching, learning and assessment methods for each module.

22 22 ABOUT YOUR COURSE 1. HOW TO CONTACT US 1.1. CONTACT DETAILS Course Leader for academic year is Odilbek Kattaev. You can find Mamurjon during his office hours in room 217 or alternatively via appointment. His address is The Head of Westminster Business School The BA Business Administration programme is very similar to the BA Business Administration course within the Westminster Business School. The head of the Westminster Business School, has ultimate responsibility for this course. You will be undertaking your studies within the Faculty at the Westminster International University in Tashkent. The address of the Westminster Business School is: Westminster Business School, University of Westminster 35, Marylebone Road London NW1 5LS England UK Tel.: Fax (School Office) The Westminster Business School provides Business education at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The majority of its courses have been designed in close collaboration with the local business community. Liaison tutor A liaison tutor is appointed by the University of Westminster to provide support to both staff and students at WIUT. The liaison tutor s role is to ensure that students studying at WIUT receive the same information, standard of teaching as those students studying in London, including having similar standards of assignments and examinations. The liaison tutor will usually visit WIUT twice a year and during their visit will hold meetings with WIUT students to discuss their views on their programme and any other issues of concern. The liaison tutor will attend the assessment Boards held at WIUT and also oversees the moderation of the assessment of students work prior to the work being presented to the external examiner. For BA (Hons) Business Administration course the liaison tutor is David Banner. David normally sees the student course representatives on his visits to WIUT, at least 2 times per year and often more frequently. If you have any major concerns you can him on david.banner1@ntlworld.com. 1.2 Personal Tutor arrangements Personal Tutors (PT) are the first point of contact for a student seeking academic advice about their studies. Your tutor can help you to develop your full academic potential and give advice on academic and personal matters, which may affect your studies at WIUT.

23 23 Each student who attended the Course of International Foundation Studies [CIFS] became accustomed to the role of a personal tutor [PT]. In Levels 4, 5 and 6 you will continue to have a PT and as far as possible, you will have the same tutor for a period of 3 years. In Level 6, you will also have a Project Supervisor and this also will give you an opportunity to discuss personal issues related to your academic programme. You will have an opportunity to get to know your PT during the Induction Week when various activities will be held to familiarize students with their new academic year. Each PT should arrange a meeting at least once per semester where students have an opportunity to ask questions and to have an open forum for discussion. PT s may also meet individually with students. You should not wait until a meeting is called before bringing any concerns to the attention of your PT. Just contact them by and arrange a meeting or visit their room during office hours, which should be posted on the door. You should also refer to the PT grid for each Level which sets out the PT and PDP [Personal Development Plan] programme for the whole academic year. A PT may not know the answer to all your questions! However, they will be able to direct you to the person who can provide the answer perhaps the module leader, course leader or the Dean for example. If the question is related to a non-academic issue, you may be directed to the Social Department. WIUT presents you with an opportunity to receive advice on academic matters from a Student Academic Advisor. Academic Advisor is a member of the course team, who has in-depth knowledge of all regulations and policies of WIUT. Academic Advisors are the first point of contact for students seeking advice about studies, academic and personal matters, which may affect your study at WIUT. Academic Advisors provide confidential support service for all students. Usually there are more than one Academic Advisors you may consult with. Please contact your Course Leader or Student Academic Support (SAS) Coordinator to find out who your Academic Advisor is. For more information, please visit What can I expect from my PT? A Personal Tutor will: Monitor and support a student s progress through the course and keep a record of meetings held and action taken; Advise a student on a course of study; Assist with the development of study skills; Provide advice and support on personal matters which may affect a student s academic performance; Highlight problems in a timely manner and, jointly with the student, determine any necessary remedial action; Direct a student to the relevant internal and external support services where necessary; Prepare references when appropriate. What can I not expect from my PT? A personal tutor will not: Solve all student problems; Be able to give financial advice or advice relating to a student s contract but may direct a student to another support agency; Be able to give advice on personal matters that do not relate to academic performance; Give advice on health issues but will direct a student to a support agency;