How To Get An Mba At The Portmouth Business School

Transcription

1 MBA Part-time Executive MBA Portsmouth Business School

2 Welcome For over 25 years, the Portsmouth MBA has provided a stimulating and potentially life-changing learning experience for professionals from across the globe. Our enterprising AMBA-accredited MBA attracts a variety of talented individuals from the private, public and third sectors, who make an active contribution within a vibrant learning environment. The MBA programme is built on a solid general management core which will enable you to take a more strategic view of the future and inform your decision-making skills in every aspect of business - beyond your own functional specialism. Additionally we bring our researchers, students and external guest speakers together to explore in-depth specialist knowledge of a wide range of chosen subjects through our Master Classes and Hot Topic seminars. This strong foundation means that you ll bring fresh ideas and skills to your organisation and put them into practice straight away. Portsmouth Business School is an outward-facing organisation that boasts an admirable pool of highly qualified academic staff who have a significant track record of research and consultancy experience. This provides real depth to our cutting-edge MBA programme. The course is academically rigorous, practically engaging and challenging. Our MBA is enjoyable, offers great personal reward, and is conducted within a supportive environment. With top quality teaching, high student satisfaction and outstanding facilities, the University of Portsmouth is a great place to study. We were delighted that we were ranked in the top two per cent of universities worldwide in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings published in If you would like to explore the idea of joining our Executive MBA programme, I d be delighted if you could contact me (details on back cover). Dr David Hall MBA Director Portsmouth Business School 2 Welcome

3 Programme overview The Portsmouth MBA is accredited by the Association of MBAs (AMBA), the leading accreditation body in Europe and, increasingly, across the world. Accreditation provides an independent and internationally recognised certification of quality and assures that the MBA programme is of continuing relevance to contemporary issues in management education. Our Executive MBA adopts an inclusive and interactive approach, valuing the contribution of students and staff alike. The curriculum comprises five elements: the Portsmouth-based taught programme UK and overseas residential study components a series of master classes on specialist topics a UK-based real-life group consultancy project the individually assessed research project We also have a guest speaker programme where other academic and business luminaries share their research, experience and thoughts. In addition to helping you to leverage your strengths, develop new business skills and prepare for the challenges of managerial leadership, the undertaking of an MBA is a journey of personal discovery. Portsmouth Business School is not a final destination, but an important turning point that prepares you for the opportunities that lie ahead. Students MBA experiences can be as distinct as their personalities, talents and ambitions, so you will find the University of Portsmouth provides a highly supportive, friendly and vibrant environment. We believe in an open-door approach and help and guidance for students is always available. Membership of our MBA Alumni Association also means students and graduates can develop excellent networking alliances which prove invaluable years after their degree. A great benefit of part-time MBA study is that employees are able to apply new knowledge immediately to their work and the ideas and fresh thinking can have instant and positive impact on businesses. It makes theory accessible and relevant so that knowledge and tools gained can be utilised to help resolve realtime work issues. Gaining an MBA gives employees the confidence and knowledge to take on new challenges and is an excellent way for employers to retain and motivate their best staff and nurture future leaders. Programme overview 3

4 Programme description The part-time Executive MBA is designed for professional business people in full-time employment who wish to study on a part-time basis. The programme is conducted over two years of teaching and a further six months for completion of the research project. It integrates the essential pillars of management blending strategy with operations, control with change, theory with practice and covering topics which are both generalist and specialist. The Taught Programme Year One The taught element is delivered in two-day or three-day blocks throughout the first two years of the course. In addition to classes about every other week during the academic year, participation in UK and European residentials and Master Class conferences is an integral part of the learning experience. Developing Organisational Capability explores finance, marketing, operations, innovation, law and corporate social responsibility, and how they influence and improve the overall management of an organisation. The learning strategy is groupbased and emphasises the integration of disciplines. Sustaining Organisational Value explores the future orientation of the organisation with further development of finance, operations, quantitative approaches to decision analysis, information systems, digital marketing and sales management, as well as specialised areas of marketing that supports the organisation into its future environment. 4 Programme description

5 Year One Year Two Year Three Mid-September March Autumn/Spring Mid-September March Autumn/ Spring Post-Assessment Period Units Developing Organisational Capability (including the UK Residential) Master Class Conference (subject to change) Creativity and Problem Solving Sales Management Strategic Leadership, Culture and Change Sustaining Organisational Value Innovation Entrepreneurship Consultancy Strategic Information Balanced Scorecard Project Management with PRINCE2 Assessment Period Strategic Management and Master Classes (including Overseas Residential) Master Class Conference Assessment Period Group Consultancy Project Research Project Outsourcing An Inspirational Workplace Emotional Intelligence Organisation Learning from Failures Consultancy and Research Methods Year Two Strategic Leadership, Culture and Change aims to develop your analytical and decision-making skills in complex strategic situations. The unit introduces key aspects of the organisation and managing people, emphasising the pivotal role occupied by organisational structure, technology, culture and its operation across local and international contexts. Strategic Management and Master Classes address key issues that shape organisations, their orientation, transformation and change in complex and uncertain business environments. Behavioural and economic concepts of organisations and their business contexts are explored. Consultancy and Research Methods operates in two phases. The taught part of the course covers techniques used in management research, quantitative and qualitative methods of analysis and consultancy intervention. After the taught element you will operate as part of a small team to apply and develop your consultancy skills with a Group Consultancy Project in a host organisation, usually at Board level. Programme description 5

6 Other elements Residentials offer a blend of academic lectures, industrial visits and evening entertainment. Our UK Residential focuses on leadership development and team effectiveness. Our overseas residentials reflect on areas such as leadership, economic development, and the impact of national culture on business. Industrial visits involve plant tours and briefings from senior managers on how their corporate strategy has changed and why. Evening entertainment allows you to relax and get to know your fellow students in an informal atmosphere. They will be part of your professional network for the future. The Master Class Conference in autumn/spring brings together students, our senior researchers and guest speakers to explore in-depth specialist knowledge of a number of chosen subjects and is delivered in intense six-hour sessions per subject. There is a wide variety of sessions to choose from and they are refreshed each year. The conferences are held twice a year. As an MBA graduate you will be invited back every year to join in our Master Class Conference. The Group Consultancy Project addresses a real business problem in much the same way as a live consultancy project would be handled. It begins during the second term of year two and is assessed through typical deliverables of a real consultancy project including a group presentation summarising findings and a more detailed written report, both delivered to the client. Finally, your Research Project allows you to focus on an aspect of strategy that most interests you. You are free to develop your own research and thinking in an independent project. It comprises an individually assessed dissertation which involves you proposing a topic. Once this proposal is approved, you undertake a literature search, research scheme and then discuss the issues, draw conclusions and make recommendations for further study in an 8,000-word report. 6 Other elements

7 Case study After spending 20 years running a business which made bespoke dresses for foreign royals and wives of top chefs, international polo players and rock stars, Sarah Miles wanted a change of direction. Following an MBA at the University of Portsmouth Business School, she is now running a two-year project with the UK market leader for humidification, as well as studying for a Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA). After 20 years working in fashion, I felt I was getting a bit stale and decided I wanted a break from the industry. My children were growing up and the market conditions were changing with fast-fashion becoming the norm, even for the very rich, so it seemed a sensible time to take the plunge and embark on something new. We are very lucky at our age that doors haven t closed to us in the same way they seemed to for our mothers. We are able to make huge changes and take on exciting new challenges, and I love that. I wanted to do something entirely different. I was really lucky I could, as it changed my life. Sarah is now working for JS Humidifiers, running a two-year knowledge transfer project in connection with the University of Portsmouth. The focus of the project is about improving processes, implementing a robust system for business analysis and financial reporting, as well as developing a decision-making framework for evaluating new revenue streams. The MBA gave me a real breadth of experience I learnt about operations, marketing, finance and strengthened my general business skills. Undertaking the MBA with students from all over the world has widened my networks and created global business links. The company I work for exports to the Middle East and, as a result of the MBA, I have a number of contacts in the United Arab Emirates, which have proved extremely valuable. I am now studying for the DBA, another challenge which I m enjoying. It is the highest level of professional and academic achievement, so is a very desirable qualification to have. Sarah Miles Case study 7

8 Learning environment The University of Portsmouth Business School prides itself on the approachability and accessibility of its teaching staff and puts strong emphasis on its open door policy, meaning that tutors are available as much as possible to assist with student queries. Library Our award-winning library houses thousands of information resources. As well as an extensive range of text books and journals, students also have access to thousands of journals online, as well as microfilm and online newspapers. There are wireless connections throughout the library and laptops available for loan. The library is open from 8am to midnight every day during term-time. Remote access is available 24/7. IT services While studying at Portsmouth you will have access to extensive computing facilities, all running the latest software for specialist and general computing. We have open access areas around the campus with the latest equipment and excellent support, a free and extensive wireless network and 24-hour IT support. Our Student IT Support Centre offers free help with any IT issue, large or small. 8 Learning environment We also have a dedicated student website where you can find news updates, links to student services and details of your timetables, exam grades and library loans. When you arrive you will be given your own Google account and 5GB of ultra fast storage. Your Google account means you can keep in touch with fellow students, share your work online and access our virtual learning environment, where you will find resources and activities for your course.

9 Some of the academics who teach on the programme Director of the MBA Programme Dr David Hall brings with him substantial management experience of the challenges faced by organisations as they respond to change and seek to improve performance. Professor James McCalman is a senior academic with executive and leadership experience in the private, charity and higher education sectors. He has driven several change and transformation projects. Professor in Accounting Lisa Jack s research on management accounting in the UK agricultural industry ultimately advises policy makers, promoting fair returns for all in the food supply chain. Dr Beth Rogers is an Honorary Fellow of the Sales Performance Association and a member of the Academic Senate of the Chartered Institute of Marketing. Previously Beth was Business Development Manager with an international IT company. Professor of Operations and Asset Management Ashraf Labib s main interests lie in the fields of operational research and decision analysis. Dr Michele Lundy is the Course Leader for the Executive MBA programme and her expertise lies in statistics and operational research. She has over 20 years experience of working for major financial institutions. Principal Lecturer James Rowe has worked in higher education for over 18 years following an earlier career in commercial engineering. His main interests are in strategic management, leadership, and culture and change. Paul Trott is Professor of Innovation Management and his book Managing Innovation and New Product Development is now in its third edition. He is also coauthor of the Penguin Business Directory. Academics who teach on the programme 9

10 About Portsmouth Business School We are one of the largest and most successful business schools in southern England. This broad academic offering across most business, management and legal subjects provides a wealth of expertise in all of our teaching. Our research capabilities inform our teaching with the latest business thinking. Additionally a number of our academics have written text books which are recommended reading for postgraduate students across the United Kingdom. All of this contributes to a rich learning experience on the Portsmouth MBA you ll be taught by senior academics who have spent many years working in industry at the top of their fields. Facilities Our students can benefit from a state-of-the-art learning environment. Our teaching rooms range from lecture theatres with a 300-student capacity to smaller rooms and computer laboratories, all with modern audio-visual facilities. The University of Portsmouth Business School is based in the purpose-built Richmond Building in the centre of the city. We are a large and vibrant community of several thousand students from all over the world. We are proud that most of our programmes have been recognised by professional institutions including accreditation by the Association of MBAs (AMBA). We are also an Accredited Centre for the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development. 10 About Portsmouth Business School

11 Case study Ian, originally from South Africa, has a wealth of business experience. He has worked for Unilever, Gillette and Boots, as well as initiating numerous entrepreneurial ventures. I wanted to do my MBA 20 years ago but it s only recently that I felt it was the right time and I was in the right place to do it, given the support that this commitment requires. British education opens up an international playing field and I was keen to enrich my experience with the credibility of an AMBAaccredited degree. Living in Gosport, Portsmouth Business School is on my doorstep and once I met the staff I knew this institution really meant business. They encourage the synergy of minds so you learn from interaction with other students as much as you do from the lecture theatre. They are also extremely knowledgeable and approachable, which makes for a fantastic, challenging learning environment. The MBA at Portsmouth allows you to find your feet. I have taken all my business successes and failures and filtered them through current thinking and methodologies. This analysis has helped me to reflect, to learn and to fine-tune my business skills in a structured way. The Business School is part of a vibrant university, which isn t bogged down with old buildings and old attitudes. It is full of modern methods, and challenging minds and experiences, which will deliver real value in the workplace. Ian Stevens Case study 11

12 Alumni Once you have completed the programme and graduated, your association with the University of Portsmouth need not end there. Being a member of the Alumni Association brings all sorts of benefits such as: You will be invited to join our Master Class Conference You will receive a dedicated e-newsletter You will be invited to join our alumni reunions We will let you know about events such as Hot Topic Seminars and public lectures which we run on a regular basis You may be eligible for membership of the Institute of Leadership and Management at the most prestigious grade of Fellowship Access to the Association of MBAs (AMBA) s career services, continuing professional development opportunities and peer networking as a graduate of an AMBAaccredited programme Career prospects Often our Executive MBA students are promoted whilst on the programme and we have, in some cases, assisted students going through radical developments in their career. The MBA programme has a two-day Employability Session that helps develop CVs, interview techniques, negotiating terms and appraisal preparation, and offers an AMBA-run job-search seminar. Through the comprehensive research and knowledge transfer activities we undertake for organisations, we have many links to industry that allow networking opportunities. 12 Alumni Career prospects

13 Employer case study Rik Prowen, Operations Director, JS Humidifiers MBA graduate Sarah Miles joined JS Humidifiers as the Associate for the company s current Knowledge Transfer Project (KTP), which aims to help senior management to understand better the contribution that each strand of business makes to our overall performance. The KTP is intended to analyse workflow throughout and identify ways in which we can work more efficiently, to establish a methodology for more relevant management reporting to provide better data for more informed decision-making and, ultimately, to be more profitable. Eighteen months on, we are in no doubt that we were very fortunate that Sarah chose to join us. We ve made significant progress in understanding our business, a journey facilitated entirely by Sarah, and we re about to enter a very exciting stage with the implementation of a new reporting system. Would anyone with anything less than an MBA have been as effective? It s hard to tell but, for a project that involves working with top management and challenging the status quo, we re delighted that we were able to attract someone of Sarah s calibre. The evident knowledge, the capacity to involve, communicate effectively with and engage people at all levels, the ability to project-manage and affect change, and the appreciation of the benefits of two-way knowledge transfer between the academic and business worlds are all elements of the MBA that have enabled Sarah to make and continue to make tangible and valuable differences to the company. Employer case study 13

14 Case study Andy is Fire Service Area Manager at the Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service. Driven by a desire to learn how to further improve his performance at work, he decided to embark on the Portsmouth MBA. I was motivated to undertake an MBA to develop my professional ability and because I ve always had a long-standing ambition to achieve a higher education qualification. Completing the MBA has stretched me in so many ways. I have learnt a range of new tools that have enabled me to increase my capacity to lead and manage at a more senior level in an increasingly complex environment. The Fire Service has also benefited enormously from me gaining this qualification and is continuing to do so through my increased contribution to the work of the management team. The MBA has definitely enabled me to progress into a more senior position in my own organisation and I also feel I benefit from being able to apply my learning on a day-to-day basis. Ed embarked on an MBA to build his business knowledge when he was tasked with setting up the UK branch of an international electronics business. He has since completed the DBA. I never really saw myself as a Managing Director, but since completing the MBA and DBA I have progressed swiftly up the ranks. When I started the MBA I was building a company from scratch and I desperately needed business knowledge to increase my chances of success! I found that once I had started the course I was able to apply theory to practice fairly rapidly, which really helps to embed the knowledge and benefit your organisation. I ve got to know staff at the Portsmouth Business School very well over the last seven years and I have to say there are plenty there who are always willing to go the extra mile. There s a real diversity of knowledge and experience, which is very enriching, and the MBA classes provide a fertile ground for new ideas. The whole experience has been pivotal for me and my confidence has grown hugely the MBA certainly equipped me with the knowledge and skills to take on more challenging roles. I really enjoyed my experience at the Portsmouth Business School the course was well organised and professionally delivered. Andy Kettle 14 Case study Ed Derbyshire

15 Employer case study Glenn Taylor Head of Scientific Services, Hampshire County Council As a former MBA student and a manager of MBA students since, Glenn has found it valuable and interesting to discuss modern business thinking as students progress through the programme. Over the years we have had a number of staff go through the MBA programme at the University of Portsmouth. Obviously, organisations need to consider time and cost implications of staff undertaking an MBA, but in our experience we believe the benefits more than outweigh the costs. We have found that MBA graduates have a much wider perspective of business issues, which has enabled us to respond quickly and more competently to challenges faced both locally and in the wider organisation. MBA graduates are also more effective in their roles and we have seen acceleration of innovation and development, as well as more engaged and motivated staff. The MBA provides great networking opportunities with others with a high degree of international business experience from both the public and private sectors. The qualification is internationally recognised and held in high regard. Being a manager of staff currently undertaking the programme takes me back to my MBA studies 15 years ago, and this has helped me to reflect on new ideas and where I need to focus my own learning and development. Employer case study 15

16 Further information For more information about the Portsmouth MBA, please visit. Students from overseas will find the pages at very useful. How to apply Please use the University of Portsmouth online application form which can be found at Fees To find out the current tuition fees for our MBA programme visit. Scholarships The Master of Business Administration scholarships are open to UK, EU and international self-funding applicants. For further information, please visit scholarships. In addition to our MBA, Portsmouth Business School offers specialist postgraduate programmes across subjects such as economics, finance, forensic accounting, human resource management (we are a Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development Accredited Centre), law, leadership (accredited by the Institute of Leadership and Management), marketing, project management (accredited by the Association of Project Management), and risk management. We also offer general business programmes such as MSc Business and Management which is designed to appeal to newly qualified graduates with an interest in business but limited management experience. University of Portsmouth Business School MBA Richmond Building Portland Street Portsmouth, Hampshire United Kingdom PO1 3DE T: +44 (0) F: +44 (0) E: mba.admissions@port.ac.uk W: MD