Cultural Management MA. Curriculum for Master s Degree Programme in Cultural Management

Transcription

1 Cultural Management MA Curriculum for Master s Degree Programme in Cultural Management

2 Degree programme: Master s degree programme in Cultural Management MA Contact: Head of Department of Social Sciences and Distance Learning Coordinator Length of degree programme: Three semesters or more Number of credits: 90 ECTS, Cycles 2.1 and 2.2 under Iceland s National Qualification Framework for Higher Education and Degrees from ECTS First edition, April

3 Table of Contents Description of study programme... 4 International studies... 4 Programme structure and teaching methods... 5 Electives... 5 Course descriptions... 8 Introduction to Cultural Management (Core)... 8 Philosophy and Culture (Core)... 9 Methodology (Core) Financial Planning and Project Management (Core) Cultural Economics (Core) Contemporary Cultural Studies Culture, Market and Networking Cultural Policy Financial Management for Cultural Management Human Resource Management Change and Crisis Management Service Management Creative School Administration Administrative Law for Managers Servant Leadership Strategic Management and the Role of Cultural Businesses (Elective) Special Elective Internships Thesis Writing MA Thesis (Mandatory) Intended learning outcomes

4 Description of study programme Studies in Cultural Management prepare students for wide-ranging and often challenging careers in the field of culture and education. Bifröst University is the only Icelandic university to offer a study programme of this type, and it has already been demonstrated that students graduating with a MA degree in Cultural Management from Bifröst are sought-after employees and collaborators in the field of culture. Attitudes to creative and culture-related industries have undergone a radical transformation in recent years. Culture and education are among the principal areas of growth and innovation in modern society, not a luxury in which a society can elect to indulge. This places increasing demands on those who wish to pursue a career in the field of culture. The objective of the cultural management study programme is to provide students with the necessary grounding and training in strategic planning, management and operating activities to thrive in the contemporary cultural environment. Bifröst University has offered a cultural management study programme since 2004 and remains the only university in Iceland to do so. The programme has been refined over the years and has matured in keeping with the cultural environment in Iceland and the challenges that await students on completion of their studies. The programme builds on both academic and applied approaches, giving students the opportunity to work with and develop a critical perspective on culture and cultural politics at the same time as they gain practical training in operating activities, management and organisation. Admission requirements to the study programme are an undergraduate university degree (e.g., BS, BA, BEd or BFA) or education and experience that can be deemed equivalent to an undergraduate degree. Completion of the study programme leads to an MA degree in Cultural Management, equivalent to a Master s degree (Cycle 2.2) under Iceland s National Qualification Framework for Higher Education and Degrees from 2011, issued by the Ministry of Education, Science and Culture. Students may also elect not to carry out the 30-ECTS research project and instead complete a Master s-level diploma in Cultural Management. Such a diploma classifies as qualification at a Master s level (Cycle 2.1) under Iceland s National Qualification Framework for Higher Education and Degrees from International studies Bifröst University s international relationships are most strongly manifested in its extensive collaboration with foreign universities. Students of Bifröst University have the opportunity to study at one of Bifröst s partner universities. Bifröst University receives foreign exchange students from its partner universities as well, and collaboration and interaction with these exchange students is also an important part of the international experience that Bifröst offers its students. A good number of Master s students spend an exchange semester abroad, although fewer do so than undergraduate students. The University s academic staff also collaborate extensively with universities abroad in the areas of both teaching and research. 4

5 The University is a member of the Erasmus programme and likewise has bilateral agreements with numerous universities outside Europe. Bifröst participates in the University of the Arctic (UArctic), a consortium of over 100 universities in Canada, the United States, Russia and the Nordic countries. Programme structure and teaching methods Admission requirements to the study programme are a Bachelor s degree or equivalent qualification, pursuant to the National Qualification Framework for Higher Education and Degrees from The study programme is 90 credits at the Master s level and is taught primarily through distance learning. Courses are in most instances taught in seven-week sessions, each of which concludes with student learning assessment (see course descriptions for individual courses). There are two sessions to a semester, and courses are divided equally between sessions. Students may choose to begin their studies either in the fall or the spring semester, but core courses are for the most part taught in the fall. Normal study progress involves completion of five courses (30 ECTS) in the fall semester, five courses (30 ECTS) in the spring semester and a final Master s thesis project (30 ECTS) in the fall semester of the following academic year. A full-time student will thus complete the programme over three semesters. Students also have the option of completing a 60-ECTS thesis to graduate with a 120-ECTS Master s degree in Cultural Management. In special cases, students may also apply to complete the equivalent of 30 credits in an unpaid internship in addition to the normal 90 credits. The study programme emphasises scientific methods, understanding and student research competences in the field of cultural management. The objective of the study programme is to qualify students for diverse and demanding jobs in the field of culture and education. One ECTS credit is considered to correspond to hours of student work. This work includes all reading, assignment work, preparation for final examinations, presentations, working weekends, lectures and all other work that students complete in connection with a course. Teaching, assessment of studies and the organisation of teaching are as per the Rules on Studies and Teaching, which can be found in Bifröst University s Quality Manual (see EF 110). The Quality Manual also contains rules for examinations and various instructions for students. The Quality Manual can be viewed online in Icelandic at and in English at Electives The Master s programme in Cultural Management is organised around five mandatory core courses (30 ECTS in total), which all students must complete. Students must complete two courses in management subjects (12 ECTS), but may choose between six different management courses. Students are also expected to complete three courses on cultural policy and dissemination (18 ECTS total). Students have the possibility of taking three courses (18 ECTS) specially tailored to school and educational management. Special support courses (electives) are also offered in connection with the completion of the final thesis. 5

6 Programme Composition Emphasis A Cultural Policy and Communication * Fall Semester 1 (30 ECTS) ECTS Springs Semester (30 ECTS) ECTS Cultural Economics (C) 6 Methodology (C) 6 Financial Planning and Project Management (C) Introduction to Cultural Management (C) 6 Contemporary Cultural Studies 6 6 Cultural Policy 6 Philosophy and Culture (C) 6 Management Course 1 6 Culture, Market and Networking 6 Management Course 2 6 Fall Semester 2 (30 ECTS) ECTS MA Thesis 30 ** Emphasis B Education Managment * Fall Semester 1 (30 ECTS) ECTS Springs Semester (30 ECTS) ECTS Cultural Economics (C) 6 Methodology (C) 6 Introduction to Cultural Management (C) 6 Creative School Management 6 Philosophy and Culture (C) 6 Administrative Law for Managers 6 Financial Planning and Project Management (C) 6 Servant Leadership 6 Management Course 1 6 Management Course 2 6 Fall Semester 2 (30 ECTS) ECTS ** MA Thesis 30 6

7 * The tables above show the typical programme composition for a full-time student. ** Thesis Gateway: In students first spring semester and second fall semester, they can enrol in a special thesis gateway (Thesis Writing), where they receive methodological assistance in writing the final thesis. Students may enrol in this gateway course a maximum of two times and will receive 6 ECTS credits if they complete all tasks assigned in the thesis gateway. Credits that students receive for this work constitute part of the 30 credits for the research project (6 credits of 12 thesis credits in Spring Semester 1 and 6 credits of 18 thesis credits in Fall Semester 2). Support that students can obtain in the thesis gateway course is supplemental to assistance from the supervisor, not a replacement for this guidance (For a more detailed description, see Thesis I and II on pp ). 7

8 Course descriptions Introduction to Cultural Management (Core) Semester and length Fall; session I 6 ECTS Degree programme: MA in Cultural Management Prerequisites: General requirements for admission to Master s studies Language: Icelandic Instructor: Dr. Njörður Sigurjónsson, associate professor Teaching methods: Lectures, discussions and project work The basics of cultural management will be reviewed, such as the ideology of cultural institutions and strategy, cultural and operational grounds for projects, marketing and concept work. The main principles of management theory will be covered, and the organisation of companies will be examined in the context of their premises. Research in the field of cultural management will be discussed, and students will receive assistance in starting preparations and preliminary work for their MA thesis. Learning outcomes: On completion of the course, students will be able to: Explain the premises of cultural management Discuss the main principles of company management, strategy and related problems Provide argumentation for the cultural management premises of a project and the correlation with market, ideology and concerned parties Prepare a draft research plan for the MA thesis 8

9 Philosophy and Culture (Core) Semester: Fall; session I 6 ECTS Degree programme: MA in Cultural Management Prerequisites: General requirements for admission to Master s studies Language: Instruction takes place in Icelandic, course materials in English and Icelandic. Instructor: Jón Ólafsson, professor. Teaching methods: Lectures, discussions and project sessions The course will cover the main theories of contemporary political philosophy that have shaped the political landscape of Europe and the West over the past 250 years. Eighteenth- and nineteenth-century theories will be reviewed, as well as their fate in the twentieth century. The top controversial issues of today will be discussed, as will approaches to social and cultural analysis offered by theories of political philosophy. Multiculturalist, feminist, Marxist and deliberative democratic analysis of political reality will be addressed, and as well as how this criticism is both directed against and reinforces the foundations of Western political thought. Learning outcomes: Students who complete the course: Know several of the key thinkers of Western philosophy in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries Understand important philosophical theories in the field of politics and culture Are able to debate some of the major questions and issues of dispute in modern philosophy Can use their knowledge to analyse and discuss social movements and ideologies 9

10 Methodology (Core) Semester: Spring; sessions I & II 6 ECTS Degree programme: MA in International Political Economy (IPE), MA in Cultural Management, MS/MIB in International Business Prerequisites: Students must have completed the course Introduction to Cultural Management Language: Lectures in Icelandic, course materials in English and Icelandic Instructor: Dr. Sigrún Lilja Einarsdóttir, assistant professor Teaching methods: Podcast lectures, working weekends and project work This course introduces core research concepts and methods and at the same time aims to prepare students for writing the Master s thesis project. The course will cover various research traditions in the social sciences; formation of research questions and objectives; development of hypotheses and theories; preparation of research plans and formatting of Master s projects; qualitative and quantitative research methods; construction of questions; data processing; presentation of findings; and research validity, reliability, transparency and ethics. Students go through the process of preparing research, selecting methods and conducting research, as part of which students receive training in collecting qualitative data, such as interviews, participant observation and textual analysis. Students likewise receive training in setting up simple online questionnaires. At the same time, students are introduced to the main traditions concerning Master s thesis projects at Bifröst University, and project work in the course is designed to be of continuing use for students in writing the Master s thesis. Learning outcomes: Knowledge and understanding On completion of the course, students will: be informed about key methodological concepts recognise salient traditions in social science research possess knowledge of basic research methods, both quantitative and qualitative be aware of the limitations of research methods, as well as their advantages and drawbacks, validity and reliability be conscious of ethical issues in research Skills On completion of the course, students will be able to: make use of the course project in continuing work on the Master s thesis project and gain increased proficiency in scientific methods formulate research questions and research objectives and define research project scope design research based on objectives and questions, select appropriate research methods 10

11 and ask questions in line with project objectives organise a research project (Master s thesis project) by preparing a research plan obtain data, especially qualitative data, and have received training in use of such data in the course analyse the research data they have obtained and present their findings in a clear and appropriate manner recognise the validity and reliability of their own research prepare a risk assessment regarding ethical issues and confidentiality of research participants and evaluate whether presentation of data collides with ethical issues or not make conclusions on the basis of their own findings in a critical manner and avoid drawing overly strong conclusions on the basis of available data 11

12 Financial Planning and Project Management (Core) Semester: Fall; session II 6 ECTS Degree programme: MA in Cultural Management Prerequisites: Students must have completed the course Introduction to Cultural Management Language: Lectures in Icelandic, course materials in English and Icelandic Instructor: Dr. Njörður Sigurjónsson, associate professor Teaching methods: Independent project work and lectures. Emphasis is placed on students reading and familiarising themselves with the course content on their own initiative and taking active part in project work. In lectures, course objectives for the week will be described and basic terms and concepts reviewed. Material will be introduced through PowerPoint slides, examples, anecdotes and other means considered conducive to improving students comprehension of the course content. Students acquaint themselves with and receive training in the fundamentals of project management methodology concerning statement of objectives, organisation and planning for culture-related projects. The status of project management in Iceland will be presented, both within cultural institutions and in various independent projects. A point is made of having students apply the content of the course to the reality they themselves have experienced. Learning outcomes: On completion of the course, students will be able to: Explain the premises of project management, such as objectives, targets and performance Explain various types of culture-related projects and institutions Discuss the main principles of project organisation and related problems Justify the premises of business plans on the basis of objectives and the relationship between the market and the needs of concerned parties Analyse internal and external project context Write a business plan Explain and justify the choice of different approaches in project organisation 12

13 Cultural Economics (Core) Semester: Fall; session I 6 ECTS Degree programme: MA in Cultural Management and MA in Cultural Studies Prerequisites: General requirements for admission to Master s studies Language: Icelandic Instructor: Dr. Ágúst Einarsson, professor Teaching methods: The course is taught through distance learning and involves lectures uploaded to Námsskjár (the learning management system at Bifröst University), working weekends, projects and discussions. Instruction takes place over seven weeks via distance learning and over two working weekends. One individual project and one pair work project are assigned in the course. Lectures and discussions are held during working weekends. The course covers economic aspects of culture, supply, demand, price determination, production, marketing, international business and international trade. The basics of national accounting, economic growth and the financial system will also be discussed in connection with culture. Value creation and value within culture will be addressed. Creativity and its economic value will be discussed, together with creative industries. The cultural industry, cultural heritage, cultural capital, sustainability, regional development issues, development and diversity will be examined. Topics of discussion include the music industry, movie industry and cultural tourism. Students obtain an overview of the basic aspects of cultural economics, with examples provided from the cultural sector in Iceland as well as abroad. Learning outcomes: Knowledge After the course, students will: Understand basic principles of economics and cultural economics. Have improved their understanding of the nature of cultural institutions. Have deepened and enhanced their knowledge of dimensions of cultural institution management. Be able to analyse aspects of management and planning in connection with culture. Be well qualified to manage and run cultural projects/institutions. Competences After the course, students will: 13

14 Be capable of applying theories of cultural economics in a scientific context and in everyday work involving cultural activities. Be able to work with information relating to the financial environment of cultural institutions. Have the skills to lead and develop projects in the cultural work environment. Have the skills to research and analyse scientifically a project within the sphere of cultural economics. 14

15 Contemporary Cultural Studies Semester: Spring; session II 6 ECTS Degree programme: MA in Cultural Management Prerequisites: General requirements for admission to Master s studies Language: Lectures in Icelandic, course materials in English and Icelandic Instructor: Dr. Gauti Sigþórsson, sessional lecturer Teaching methods: Podcast lectures, working weekends, project work and discussions on the course webpage. This course focuses on contemporary cultural studies. Cultural studies research, topics and methods will be examined, particularly with regard to what has been happening in the field in recent years. We will also investigate how cultural studies theories can be applied to research and creativity in other fields, such as business, arts and education, not least in view of the importance of cultural studies as a platform for research and discussion on cultural policy, cultural politics and the role of cultural institutions in a public forum. Learning outcomes: On completion of the course, students will: Recognise and be able to distinguish between key concepts in contemporary cultural studies. Be able to apply critical theory on culture, institutions and the creative sector in research and essay-writing. Have adopted independent and critical work methods in research and preparation for the Master s thesis, in particular in defining terms and concepts, collecting data and presenting the findings of their own research. 15

16 Culture, Market and Networking Semester: Fall; session II 6 ECTS Degree programme: MA in Cultural Management Prerequisites: General requirements for admission to Master s studies Language: Icelandic Instructor: Dr. Haukur F. Hannesson, sessional lecturer Teaching methods: Lectures, discussions and projects The course deals with the basics of marketing science and examines culture and education in a marketing context. The role of networking in cultural management is discussed from a theoretical and applied perspective. Learning outcomes: On completion of the course, students will be able to: Explain the main marketing concepts concerning the interaction of arts and culture with their environment Apply various methods of artistic promotion Prepare a marketing plan and explain its main components Understand the importance of research for cultural institutions marketing activities 16

17 Cultural Policy Semester: Spring; session I 6 ECTS Degree programme: MA in Cultural Management Prerequisites: General requirements for admission to Master s studies Language: Icelandic Instructor: Dr. Haukur F. Hannesson, sessional lecturer Teaching methods: Lectures, discussions and projects The course will cover the theoretical basis of policy and policy-making in cultural activities. Public cultural policy and its origins and application in an Icelandic, Nordic, European and international context will also form a course topic. Management and operation of arts institutions will likewise be discussed, with emphasis on an applied approach incorporating examples. Learning outcomes: After the course, students will: Understand the basic elements of cultural policy-making Have an overview of the management side of various arts institutions 17

18 Financial Management for Cultural Management Semester: Spring; session I 6 ECTS Degree programme: MA in Cultural Management Prerequisites: General requirements for admission to Master s studies Language: Instruction takes place in Icelandic Instructor: Einar Valdimarsson, sessional lecturer Teaching methods: Lectures, discussions and projects An overview of financial accounting, with an emphasis on both theoretical and legal aspects. Students will be familiarised with key points of financial reporting, such as what constitutes income, expenses, assets and liabilities. The role of auditors is explained. Value-added tax (VAT) and its handling are addressed. The structuring of the financial statement is examined and how this structure forms a single whole (i.e., the auditors signature, balance sheet, statement of income, cash flow, explanations and report of the board). The role of the financial manager is examined. Particular emphasis is put on planning (with students preparing an operating plan and payment schedule), as well as on how comparison with accounting records takes place. The course also deals with businesses internal control. Learning outcomes: After the course, students will: Be able to explain the importance of financial statements for business owners and other concerned parties Understand the structure of financial statements and be able to set up a simple financial statement Know and be able to explain the basic rules concerning value-added tax Be able to prepare an operating plan and payment schedule and subsequently to set up a balance sheet Be able to carry out an independent assessment of a financial statement Be able to define workplace responsibilities with regard to internal control 18

19 Human Resource Management Semester: Fall; session I 6 ECTS Department: Department of Business MS Prerequisites: General requirements for admission to Master s studies Language: Instruction takes place in Icelandic Instructor: Gylfi Dalmann Aðalsteinsson Teaching methods: Lectures, discussions and projects The objective is to enable students to acquire the newest and leading theories in the field of human resource management and for students to gain an understanding of and training in the use of the principal theories in human resource management. The course deals in depth with nine keys to human resource management, and human resource management theories are covered in detail. The objective is for students to understand the importance of human resource management as a discipline and as an essential component within an organisation. The basic elements of human resource management will be introduced, and it is important that students be able to acquire an understanding of their substance in classes and discussion periods, where they will engage in solving concrete problems. Learning outcomes: After the course, students will: Know and understand the principal theories of human resource management (HRM). Have a knowledge of the best practices used in Iceland and abroad in managing personnel issues. Be able to identify the benefits and downsides of the main management methods in the labour market. Know how to organise and carry out the principal tasks relating to human resource management. Know and be able to apply the best methods of human resource management 19

20 Change and Crisis Management Semester: Fall; session II 6 ECTS Department: Department of Business MS Prerequisites: General requirements for admission to Master s studies Language: Instruction takes place in Icelandic Instructor: Kristinn Hjálmarsson Teaching methods: Teaching methods are diverse and build on Bifröst University s tradition of project-based learning. Lectures and guidance from the instructor are provided directly to students on campus or by means of audio and video through the University s learning management system. The course objective is to enhance participants skills in negotiating change. Learning outcomes: After the course, they will be able to participate in developing and shaping change-related work on the basis of their knowledge of methods and theories. Participants will be able to make an independent assessment of different methods on which to base change management plans, in keeping with the objectives of change. 20

21 Service Management Semester: Spring; session I 6 ECTS Department: Department of Business MS Prerequisites: General requirements for admission to Master s studies Language: Instruction takes place in Icelandic Instructor: Einar Svansson Teaching methods: Teaching methods are diverse and build on Bifröst University s tradition of project-based learning. Lectures and guidance from the instructor are provided directly to students on campus or by means of audio and video through the University s learning management system. The course is a Master s-level course in service management and is intended as an introduction to the basic concepts and methods necessary for one to know in order to succeed in managing and marketing service companies. Service is examined in various contexts, both in Iceland and in an international forum. The main angles covered are human resources, technology and service company policy. Learning outcomes: Knowledge objectives: Students will understand and be able to explain the basic concepts of the service economy and marketing Students will have knowledge of key theories about consumers and localisation of service in a competitive market Students will understand how basic marketing methods can be adapted for service companies Students will be familiar with the introduction of successful service policies and with quality control Students will be acquainted with the main models on the service company s interaction with the customer Capability objectives: Be able to explain the main theories and models used in service management and marketing Be able to explain how known marketing and management methods are used in service Be able to analyse and articulate a service policy in a company or institution Have developed skills in data collection and (promotional) presentation of a subject matter 21

22 Have acquired an ability for constructive criticism grounded in positive thinking and professional analysis of several of the main models (systems) and concepts of service studies Be able to exchange views on the main theories about service management and marketing of service 22

23 Creative School Administration Semester: Fall; session II 6 ECTS Degree programme: MA in Cultural Management Prerequisites: General requirements for admission to Master s studies Language: Icelandic Teachers: Rósa Gunnarsdóttir and Signý Óskarsdóttir Teaching methods: Lectures, discussions and projects This course deals with the distinctive features of educational institutions as creative communities and the roles, duties and responsibilities of those leading them in view of this. The focus is primarily on the leadership role of the institution s head as a directive and servant leader. Emphasis is placed on the role of the head of the educational institution in the area of self-assessment and development and in building up and reinforcing the internal conditions necessary for the institution to be able to carry out its function. Learning outcomes: After the course, students will: On completion of the course, participants are expected to have gained an overview of the leadership and management role of the educational institution s head in creative education; acquired an understanding of the premises and nature of change work in educational institution grasped some of the main concepts and definitions concerning creative school administration and internal conditions for creative school administration in schools 23

24 Administrative Law for Managers Semester: Spring; session II 6 ECTS Degree programme: MA in Cultural Management Prerequisites: General requirements for admission to Master s studies Language: Icelandic Instructor: NN Teaching methods: Lectures, discussions and projects The course covers the rules of administrative law in Iceland and related fields, with special emphasis on aspects relating to municipal activities. The general rules of administrative law will be addressed, including both non-statutory rules and legislative provisions on administrative procedures. The course will examine how decisions constitute administrative decisions and what significance it has to distinguish between such decisions and other decisions taken by managers in their daily work. Examples and judgments providing insight into the application of rules to real-life situations will be examined. The course will also deal with handling and processing of information and working methods that managers are required to respect under freedom of information laws and legislation on personal data protection. The course will address employees rights within municipalities and case law in this area. General supervision of municipalities and ministries activities will be examined, and the role of the Parliamentary Ombudsman will be discussed. Learning outcomes: After the course, students will: Have gained basic knowledge in the area of administrative law and related fields of law and applied this knowledge in their own work, both by having gained more confidence in their decision-making and organisation of work processes where administrative rules are put to the test and by being able to assess when issues are of a nature that they call for the expertise of lawyers in the field. Are familiar with the rules applying to the handling of personal information and general rules on authorities obligation to disclose information. Have a good overview of the requirements that the rules of public employment law make of employers in managing personnel administration, in particular with respect to recruitment and application of administrative decisions. 24

25 Servant Leadership Semester: Spring; session I 6 ECTS Department: Department of Business MS Prerequisites: General requirements for admission to Master s studies Language: Icelandic or English Instructor: Sigrún Gunnarsdóttir and others Teaching methods: Teaching methods are diverse and build on Bifröst University s tradition of project-based learning. Lectures and guidance from the instructor are provided directly to students on campus or by means of audio and video through the University s learning management system. Servant leadership is a growing force within leadership, and many organisations make use of this type of leadership in part or full to succeed. This course reviews several key elements of servant management, stressing how one can harness servant management in order to succeed. Emphasis is placed on examining the latest research in the field. The course is administered by Greenleaf Centre Iceland (Þekkingarsetur um þjónandi forystu). Learning outcomes: On completion of the course, students will: Be able to explain at length what servant leadership is Be able to explain servant leadership in comparison to other major theories in leadership studies Be able to define how we can harness servant leadership to achieve success, whether for ourselves personally or for our workplace Understand the significance of major studies in the field of servant leadership and how we can make use of this research 25

26 Strategic Management and the Role of Cultural Businesses (Elective) Semester: Spring; session II 6 ECTS Degree programme: MA in Cultural Management Prerequisites: General requirements for admission to Master s studies Language: Instruction takes place in Icelandic, course materials in English and Icelandic. Instructor: Dr. Njörður Sigurjónsson, associate professor Teaching methods: Lectures, discussions and project sessions Students will become acquainted with the principal theories concerning strategy and management of cultural institutions and receive training in the application of analytical tools. The course will deal with the effect of policy on institutions organisation, their relations with the community, politics, communication within institutions and the various manifestations of institutionalised power. The relationship between theory and reality will also be examined in terms of the outer limits of institutions, time, strategy, effectiveness, knowledge, dialogue and conflict. Why are institutions the way they are? How does introduction or adoption take place, and what are the measures of success? Why are policies so different, and why are they so similar? Why do we hear so different things when policy is being discussed? Learning outcomes: On completion of the course, students will be able to: Lead a strategic management process and understand its premises Explain various premises of strategic management studies and related criticism Discuss the main features of company organisation and management based on concepts of power, knowledge, beauty and efficiency Discuss the main concepts of management studies critically Display knowledge of complex concepts at important meetings Analyse the context of institutionalised power as manifested in, among other things, university learning outcomes 26

27 Special Elective Semester: All semesters, offered as suitable 6 ECTS Degree programme: MA in Cultural Management Prerequisites: General requirements for admission to Master s studies. Additional requirements may be made for individual courses. Language: Icelandic or English Instructor: Various Teaching methods: Lectures, discussions and project sessions Electives are also offered during the period of study, often in collaboration with other degree programmes at the Master s level. Electives are organised as traditional 6-credit courses on subjects that have some connection with the field of study of cultural management. The objective of electives is to improve the flexibility of the degree programme so that students can optimally tailor their studies to their own needs. 27

28 Internships Semester and length: Students may apply for internships in place of an elective course. Internships are in all cases unpaid, but students receive 6 ETCS credits for four weeks of fulltime work (160 hours). In special cases, it is possible to approve an internship that is shorter or longer than the standard four weeks. However, credits for internship work as part of a 90-credit Master s degree may not exceed 12 ETCS credits. Students also have the option of applying to complete a 120-ECTS MA degree and take the equivalent of 30 credits in an unpaid internship in addition to the normal 90 credits. A 30-credit internship corresponds to around 750 working hours, or four months of full-time work. Degree programme: Students in all Master s degree programmes may apply for an internship. Prerequisites: Students must have completed a minimum of 30 credits. Language: Determined by the business/institution where the internship takes place. Instructor: A student has one supervisor in the business or institution in question, who monitors the student s work and provides guidance. Teaching methods: An internship provides training in the workplace that centres on the activities of the institution/business. Guidance is an important part of the student s professional training. The supervisor and student meet regularly and assess the work and the progress of projects. The objective of the internship is to offer students on-the-job training under the professional guidance of experienced managers and administrators of businesses and institutions. Assessment: The student keeps a journal with regular entries on the tasks and projects on which s/he is working, which must be handed in to the teacher responsible for coordinating the internship, along with a report on the internship. The supervisor at the business/institution testifies to the student s diligence and project work at the end of the work period and provides feedback to the school. A pass/fail grade is given for an internship. Reading materials: As required by the projects in question. Learning outcomes: On completing the internship, students will: Know how to use the appropriate methods for the tasks and projects assigned to them. Have achieved autonomy in their working methods and be able to set up and follow a project schedule. Be able to apply their knowledge and skills in the job or projects assigned to them during their internship. 28

29 Thesis Writing Semester: All semesters 6 ECTS Degree programme: Master s studies, all degree programmes Prerequisites: General requirements for admission to Master s studies Language: Lectures in Icelandic, course materials in Icelandic and English Instructor: Dr. Sigrún Lilja Einarsdóttir Teaching methods: Audio lectures uploaded to the course webpage, project work and one working weekend at Bifröst University. This thesis-writing gateway suits Master s students who are starting concept work for a 30- credit Master s thesis and/or have already made some progress but would like methodological support in their thesis work. This gateway course is not suitable for students who intend to complete a 18-credit final project (business plan). Students who have completed a methodology course and an introductory cultural management course and have made good progress in their Master s studies may take this course and may complete a maximum of 12 thesis credits in this way (Thesis I and Thesis II), whether in the fall semester or spring semester, provided that they fulfil the requirements for enrolment in this gateway. Students can continue to develop research concepts from their methodology class or work with new ideas for a Master s thesis. Students choose one of four different learning modules, depending on which module suits individual students best at any given time: Module 1 (Research plan) allows students to formulate a new topic for a Master s thesis from the ground up, carry out concept work, examine the theoretical background and thereby complete a research plan for their project. At this stage, students are under the tutelage of an instructor, but a decision will be taken later as to whether and when students will receive guidance from a supervisor. Module 2 (Writing the theory section) suits students who have formulated their Master s thesis topic in a methodology course and focuses on drafting an in-depth theory section, either prior to or after completing the main data collection phase (depending on research approach). At this stage, students may be obtaining guidance from a supervisor but receive methodological support from an instructor. Module 3 (Data collection) suits students who have formulated their Master s thesis topic in a methodology course and centres on the main data collection phase, following consultation between the instructor and supervisor. Students obtain guidance from their supervisor but receive methodological support from an instructor. Module 4 (Data analysis and presentation of findings) is a stand-alone continuation of Module 3 and concerns data analysis and presentation of research findings. In this module, students receive assistance in identifying suitable methods of analysis and the best way of presenting their findings. Students obtain guidance from their supervisor but receive methodological support from an instructor. The module does not involve traditional teaching or instruction per se, but the instructor will contribute brief review input as the need arises, and students can seek assistance from the instructor as needed, particularly as relates to methodological support. Students attend working weekends, where they listen to guest lectures, participate in discussion groups and have the opportunity to meet with the instructor as needed. 29

30 Learning outcomes: The objective of the thesis gateway is to enable students to organise and coordinate their thesis work better. In thesis gateway modules, students will: apply methods and knowledge gained in studies, develop a research topic or continue work on a topic from a methodology course in consultation with their instructor/supervisor. improve their ability to work independently and enhance the overall quality of their work in writing a Master s thesis. gain training in analysis and in putting forward solutions appropriate for the subject matter. be capable of dealing with theories and accepted views in an autonomous and critical manner, organising their own work and completing a predetermined section of the thesis at the end of the semester. 30

31 MA Thesis (Mandatory) Semester: MA final project Final semester in Master s studies 30 ECTS Degree programme: MA in Cultural Management Prerequisites: 30 ECTS Language: Icelandic or English Teaching methods: Independent work with supervisor. Project schedule developed in consultation with supervisor. The final project is an academic thesis or other comparable project, which each Master s student completes on his/her own and must meet all requirements made of final projects in general at this stage of higher education. With the final thesis, the Master s student demonstrates his/her mastery of methods, work methods and procedures and theories in the study area in question and submits a work that has independent theoretical or applied value for the field or profession. The final project is an important part of a Master s student s training, and s/he is responsible for all components of this project. Learning outcomes: To be able to apply methods and knowledge gained in studies. To work under the close supervision of a supervisor. To gain training in analysis and in putting forward solutions appropriate for the subject matter. To have the ability to deal with theories and accepted views in an autonomous and critical manner. Course assessment: Students must have their research plan approved before they may begin work. A final thesis in Master s studies shall, on completion, shall be defended before the supervisor and two other evaluation committee members, to be appointed by the head of department. Reading materials: In consultation with the supervisor. Further information on the MA thesis can be found in the Bifröst University Quality Manual, appendix 230a (EF 230a). 31

32 Intended learning outcomes Intended learning outcomes for the study programme are set forth as per Iceland s National Qualification Framework for Higher Education and Degrees, issued in 2011 by the Ministry of Education, Science and Culture, pursuant to Act No. 63/2006. On completing their studies, degree holders should meet the following standards, as per the educational performance attested to in the diploma and diploma supplement. Knowledge On graduating, degree holders possess knowledge of the main concerns of cultural management and the methods and theories characterising the discipline. This entails that the degree holder: Has knowledge of the nature of cultural institutions and their interplay with politics and the economy. Is familiar with the main theories in the field of cultural studies and the history of ideas and can place the latest knowledge into context in scientific cultural management fields. Have deepened and enhanced his/her knowledge of factors in the management of cultural institutions; their social, tax and legal environment; and their cultural policy. Is familiar with the main research methods in the field of the humanities and social sciences. Skills Graduates of the programme can apply the methods and work methods and procedures of the social sciences and humanities in analysis and data collection in the relevant specialised fields pertaining to cultural management. This entails that the degree holder: Has acquired a knowledge of the main theories in the field of cultural studies and the history of ideas and is able to apply them in analysis in a scientific context as well as in day-to-day work relating to cultural activities. Understands and can work with information concerning the financial and legal environment of cultural institutions. Can present ideas and impart them in a clear manner. Can use his/her knowledge in the field of cultural management to tackle complex subjects within the cultural sector. Can obtain information, assess data quality and work with complex information in the scientific fields relating to cultural management. 32

33 Can apply research methods in the humanities and social sciences and carry out smaller research projects in the field of cultural management. Understands research and research findings within the main fields of study pertaining to cultural management. Competences Those who complete a degree in Cultural Management are capable of applying their knowledge to different scenarios and circumstances. They possess the technical and professional knowledge to continue their studies at a doctoral level and to undertake diverse projects in their working life. This entails that the degree holder: Has a good grounding in cultural studies, which will be of use in continuing studies and in work requiring professional knowledge in the field of cultural affairs. Has the ability to manage cultural projects and supervise the activities of cultural institutions. Can take independent, professional decisions and support them with arguments. Can bring him- or herself up to date on and explain complex tasks and problems in the field of cultural management for teams of specialists and for the general public. 33