COURSE SUBJECT TITLE: MASTER OF SCIENCE IN INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS

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1 B1.1 UNIVERSITY OF ULSTER PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION COURSE SUBJECT TITLE: MASTER OF SCIENCE IN INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS PLEASE NOTE: This specification provides a concise summary of the main features of the course and the learning outcomes that a typical student might reasonably be expected to achieve and demonstrate if he or she takes full advantage of the learning opportunities provided. More detailed information on the specific learning outcomes, content and the teaching, learning and assessment methods of each module can be found in the course handbook. 1 AWARD INSTITUTION/BODY: University of Ulster 2 TEACHING INSTITUTION: University of Ulster 3 LOCATION: Magee, Distance Learning 4 ACCREDITED BY: N/A 5 FINAL AWARD: Master of Science in International Business (with PgCert and PgDip in International Business as exit awards) 6 MODE OF ATTENDANCE: Full-time & Part-time (on campus) and Full-time & Part-time (Distance Learning) 7 SPECIALISMS: N/A 8 COURSE/UCAS CODE: MSc Full-time (campus) MSc Part-time (campus) MSc Full-time (online) MSc Part-time (online) 9 DATE REVISED: Effective from 2010/11 10 EDUCATIONAL AIMS OF THE PROGRAMME The general aim of the MSc in International Business is to enable postgraduate students who have successfully completed the Postgraduate Diploma in International Business to undertake a Masters dissertation in a relevant international business topic. The Masters dissertation provides students with the opportunity to conceive, design and implement satisfactorily a substantial research project within the broad subject area of international business. The general aim of the Postgraduate Diploma in International Business is to inculcate in students, knowledge and skills and an aptitude for international business. This programme aims to allow students to demonstrate competency and understanding of managing both the macro and micro contexts of international business. This will include the ability to acquire, develop and integrate international business theory and develop the skills to then apply this knowledge of international business practice, via case studies and fieldwork. B1

2 The general aim of the Postgraduate Certificate in International Business is to Introduce theoretical frameworks that are relevant to the study of international business/organisations and their global contexts and relate them to the understanding of strategic development of same. It is important that students develop a critical awareness of how these frameworks can be utilised to address complex and practical international business issues. The focus of the programme throughout is international. It provides valuable perspectives on the major industrialised and industrialising economies, as well as developing countries. The programmes are designed to equip students with a mix of analytical and problem-solving business-related skills with a very strong emphasis on relevant international challenges and issues. 11 MAIN LEARNING OUTCOMES Enable an advanced study of international organisations, their leadership and management and the changing external context in which they operate; Stimulate the ability to analyse management problems critically, rationally and rigorously; Creatively and systematically apply knowledge and understanding of international business and management concepts to complex issues and respond to a rapidly changing business environment; Comprehend and use relevant ICT for application in international business and management activities; Demonstrate a critical understanding of contemporary issues in international business and of the validity of relevant published research, together with its implications for potential new business practice; Develop an international perspective on business issues and opportunities; Enhance lifelong learning skills and personal development in order to consolidate student achievements and continue their work with selfdirection and/or collaboratively contributing to business and society as a whole. The following reference points were used to inform the development of the programme and its learning outcomes: Feedback from past and present students, employers and business contributors, External Examiners and our Employers Liaison Forum; The University s Vision and core strategic aims, teaching and learning strategy and policies; Current research or other advanced scholarship carried out by academic staff; QAA subject benchmark statements ( Master s degrees in Business and Management, 2007); MSc National Occupational Standards (2004); Requirements of professional, statutory or regulatory bodies including the Association of Business Schools (ABS); National and University qualifications and credit framework. B2

3 Successful students will be able to: 11K KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING OF SUBJECT K1 develop a broad knowledge and thorough understanding of the fundamental concepts, principles, theories, practices and legislative frameworks underlying international business as an academic discipline and as a tool for improved management of international businesses. K2 recognise and analyse criteria and specifications appropriate to issues in international leadership and management and within international business and plan strategies for their implementation. K3 employ effectively practices and tools for the specification, design, implementation and critical evaluation of international business processes. K4 communicate effectively ideas, proposals and designs to a range of audiences, using rational and reasoned arguments, in both written assignments and oral presentations. K5 understand the broader macro environmental context as well as the micro environmental context within which international business operates. K6 develop a deep understanding of the key issues, institutions, opportunities and managerial processes that are central to international business and apply this knowledge and understanding to a major piece of empirical research. K7 Demonstrate an understanding of advanced research methods relevant to the investigation of international business problems. Relationship of learning outcomes to award levels: PgCert: the minimum outcomes at this level are K1 -K4 PgDip: the minimum outcomes at this level are K1 - K5 MSc: all learning outcomes (K1-K7) are applicable. Learning and Teaching Methods In addition to lectures, seminars, directed reading, electronic resources (local, national and international), case studies (local, national and international), fieldwork and team projects; knowledge and understanding of the subject are disseminated through methods which reflect the nature of these programmes. Thus student work context and experience will feature in many of the learning situations. Visiting speakers and E-tutors (local, national and international) are another important element of the programme, again reflecting the applied nature of learning employed. Through the use of regular study groups, students will be encouraged to work collaboratively and learn from the experience of others work situations and develop their understanding of international business operations. Assessment Methods Assessment methods for these learning outcomes consist of a mix of class tests, seen and unseen examinations and coursework, including essays, projects and presentations (both individual and group) and discussion board postings. Students are provided with detailed formative feedback regarding their work. B3

4 11I I1 I2 I3 I4 I5 I6 I7 I8 Intellectual Qualities demonstrate an ability to consistently apply knowledge and intellectual skills in local, national and international contexts; apply critical evaluation and intellectual rigour to complex arguments and evidence in the field of international business; analyse and interpret complex or incomplete data in international environments, in order to inform strategic decision-making; integrate new knowledge with past experience and apply it to new situations in the international business domain; generate and evaluate criteria which investigate the development, implementation, uptake, functionality and performance of international business organisations; assess the implications, risks, security, integrity and confidentiality aspects of applying innovative solutions across multi-national and trans-national companies; demonstrate independent thought in relation to the conduct of research, analysis and development of business opportunities globally; Demonstrate autonomous identification and development of applied research issues Relationship of learning outcomes to award levels: PgCert : the minimum outcomes at this level are I1 I4 PgDip : the minimum outcomes at this level are I1 I6 MSc : all learning outcomes (I1-I8) are applicable. Learning and Teaching Methods Intellectual qualities are nurtured through a combination of international case studies, tutor-led seminars, student-led discussions and project work in parallel with 11P and 11T below. Assessment Methods Assessment of these learning outcomes takes place primarily through research-based (individual and group) assignments, examinations and, in particular, the dissertation. B4

5 11P P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6 P7 P8 P9 Professional/Practical Skills employ a wide range of interpersonal skills which include; effective listening, negotiating, persuasion and presenting; formulate solutions to a range of international business problems and issues; integrate management processes into the effective deployment of human, technological and organisational resources to meet performance goals and deadlines, in an international context; apply academic theory to real world business practice in relation to international business issues and problems; write detailed reports, using the appropriate level of detail, argument and complexity, for various stakeholders, especially business practitioners and academic supervisors; develop practical skills to problem solving in the international business environment; Perform effectively as a member of a team; prepare individuals to meet the challenges of managing business enterprises in the global environment; The ability for independent, self motivated, action. Relationship of outcomes to award levels: PgCert : the minimum outcomes at this level are P1 P5 PgDip : the minimum outcomes at this level are P1 P8 MSc : all learning outcomes (P1-P9) are applicable. Learning and Teaching Methods The learning and teaching methods used to develop professional/practical skills place emphasis on group work and experiential learning, building on the outcomes of 11K. The development of these skills begins at the outset with a focus on recognising and utilising individual contributions in group processes. It continues through lectures, tutorial support, assignments and project work. Verbal and written feedback is provided to identify and confirm good practice. Assessment Methods Individual and group projects and assignments, coursework presentations and peer and self assessment are used to assess professional and practical skills development. B5

6 11T T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 Transferable Skills conduct primary and secondary research in the field of international business making effective use of information technology, information retrieval skills and of learning resource facilities. communicate effectively, in both written and oral form, to a variety of stakeholders, including peers and academic staff and using a range of media. integrate academic theory with business practice in order to understand and analyse key issues in the international business arena demonstrate self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems and highlighting issues, and act autonomously, or as part of a team appreciate the need for continuing professional development in recognition of the requirement for life-long-learning. Create a self-reflective approach to devising, developing and delivering research project work to a professional level Relationship of learning outcomes to award levels: PgCert : the minimum outcomes at this level are T1 T5 PgDip : the minimum outcomes at this level are T1 T5 MSc : all learning outcomes (T1-T6) are applicable. Learning and Teaching Methods: These softer skills are a well integrated aspect of the whole programme, In particular, they are established and developed through the completion of practical and applied exercises, work-based assignments and case studies that may require peer presentations. Students are given written and verbal feedback on content as well as transferable skills such as the quality of writing and presentation. Assessment Methods: These learning outcomes are assessed alongside those under sections 11K, 11I, and 11P through a range of methods, in particular work-based assignments and projects (individual and group), sometimes involving presentations and on-line assessment. B6

7 11a PROGRAMME LEARNING OUTCOME MAP Postgraduate Certificate Please Note: The matrix displays only the measurable programme outcomes and where these are developed and assessed within the programme. MODULE OUTCOMES TITLES LEVEL CODE K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 I1 I2 I3 I4 I5 I6 I7 I8 International Management 7 BMG813 X X X X X X X X International Business Environment 7 BMG812 X X X X X X X International Leadership and HRM 7 BMG935 X X X X X X Business Research Methods 7 BMG827 X X X X X X TITLES LEVEL CODE P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6 P7 P8 P9 T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 International Management 7 BMG813 X X X X X X X International Business Environment 7 BMG812 X X X X X X X X International Leadership and HRM 7 BMG935 X X X X X X X Business Research Methods 7 BMG827 X X X X X X X X X B7

8 11b PROGRAMME LEARNING OUTCOME MAP Postgraduate Diploma Please Note: The matrix displays only the measurable programme outcomes and where these are developed and assessed within the programme. MODULE OUTCOMES TITLES LEVEL CODE K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 I1 I2 I3 I4 I5 I6 I7 I8 International Management 7 BMG813 X X X X X X X X International Business Environment 7 BMG812 X X X X X X X International Leadership and 7 BMG935 X X X X X X HRM Business Research Methods 7 BMG827 X X X X X X E Business 7 BMG814 X X X X X X X X International Marketing 7 MKT860 X X X X X X X International Entrepreneurship 7 BMG936 X X X X X X X X X X Global Policy and Strategy 7 BMG815 X X X X X X X X X X Field Consulting Project 7 BMG832 X X X X X X X X X X TITLES LEVEL CODE P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6 P7 P8 P9 T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 International Management 7 BMG813 X X X X X X X International Business Environment International Leadership and HRM 7 BMG812 X X X X X X X X 7 BMG935 X X X X X X X Business Research Methods 7 BMG827 X X X X X X X X X E Business 7 BMG814 X X X X X X International Marketing 7 MKT860 X X X X X X X International Entrepreneurship 7 BMG936 X X X X X X X X X X X Global Policy and Strategy 7 BMG815 X X X X X X X X Field Consulting Project 7 BMG832 X X X X X X X X X X X X X B8

9 11C PROGRAMME LEARNING OUTCOME MAP Master of Science Please Note: The matrix displays only the measurable programme outcomes and where these are developed and assessed within the programme. MODULE OUTCOMES TITLES LEVEL CODE K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 I1 I2 I3 I4 I5 I6 I7 I8 International Management 7 BMG813 X X X X X X X X International Business Environment 7 BMG812 X X X X X X X International Leadership and HRM 7 BMG935 X X X X X X Business Research Methods 7 BMG827 X X X X X X E Business 7 BMG814 X X X X X X X X International Marketing 7 MKT860 X X X X X X X International Entrepreneurship 7 BMG936 X X X X X X X X X X Global Policy and Strategy 7 BMG815 X X X X X X X X X X Field Consulting Project 7 BMG832 X X X X X X X X X X Dissertation 7 BMG847 X X X X X X X X X X X X TITLES LEVEL CODE P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6 P7 P8 P9 T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 International Management 7 BMG813 X X X X X X X International Business Environment 7 BMG812 X X X X X X X X International Leadership and HRM 7 BMG935 X X X X X X X Business Research Methods 7 BMG827 X X X X X X X X X E Business 7 BMG814 X X X X X X International Marketing 7 MKT860 X X X X X X X International Entrepreneurship 7 BMG936 X X X X X X X X X X X Global Policy and Strategy 7 BMG815 X X X X X X X X Field Consulting Project* 7 BMG832 X X X X X X X X X X X X X Dissertation 7 BMG847 X X X X X X X X X X X * Field Consulting Project is not available in the online programme. B9

10 12 STRUCTURE AND REQUIREMENTS FOR THE AWARD The programme comprises of eight taught modules (worth 15 credit points each) and a Dissertation (worth 60 credit points), amounting to 180 CATS points in total. In line with the national Framework for Higher Education Qualifications Framework (FHEQ) all modules on the programme are assessed at Level 7. The first semester for both full-time and part-time students comprises two core foundation modules International Management and International Business Environment, which aims to bring applicants from a diverse business background, to a level playing field, prior to progressing to the more specialist modules. Thereafter modules allow a structured progression towards a more creative and strategic emphasis with modules including International Marketing, International Entrepreneurship, International Leadership and Human Resource Management, Business Research Methods, E Business, International Marketing, International Entrepreneurship, Global Policy and Strategy and Field Consulting Project. Work on the Dissertation commences at the beginning of the third semester/year following the study of Business Research Methods. This is delivered via a combination of formal lectures during Semester 2 of Year 1 and subsequently through largely self-directed on-line resources. Electives are available on the campus-based programme only, whereby students can choose to study International Leadership & HRM or International Entrepreneurship. Over the last number of years, the majority of students have elected for the International Entrepreneurship module, which has been the predominate module delivered. The on-line delivery mode does not allow for a choice of electives, as it would not be practically possible to deliver the Field Consulting Project, which requires groups of students to provide consultancy services to local businesses in the North West region. As a result, the on-line programme requires all students to complete both International Entrepreneurship and International Leadership and HRM modules, to the exclusion of the Field Consulting Project. Programme learning outcomes can still be met by each delivery mode. Full-time students normally complete the programme in one calendar year. Part-time students can take between two years (six semesters) and five years (ten semesters), with three years (six semesters) as the norm, to complete the programme depending on their desired rate of progress. In order to accommodate their work and personal commitments, part-time students have more flexibility in both the sequencing of modules and the rate of progress but they would normally be expected to complete the core foundation modules first before progressing to the later stages. The normal rate of progress for a part-time student would be to accumulate credit amounting to 30 CATS points per semester (two x 15 point modules). Part-time students can however elect to undertake the dissertation module in the third semester of Year 2, in order to fast track, which would require those students who take this option to transfer to full-time study mode. Part-time students normally undertake the taught modules in the same sequence as full-time students, except at a slower rate (over two academic years instead of one). B10

11 The ability to complete the MSc in two calendar years is in line with other competitors product offerings and while it is a highly intensive period of study, it is achievable. This has proven to be an effective marketing tool at the outset for part-time students, even if they subsequently opt to undertake their dissertation in Year 3. This option is likely to continue to increase in attractiveness to students, in line with a clear demand for increased flexibility in programme delivery. If students choose not to progress to the final year/semester of the MSc programme, but have passed the requisite number of taught modules (eight - up to a value of 120 credit points), they may exit the programme with the award of a Postgraduate Diploma in International Business. Additionally if students choose not to progress to the second year/semester of the MSc programme, but have passed the requisite number of taught modules (four - up to a value of 60 credit points), they may exit the programme with the award of a Postgraduate Certificate in International Business. This option is primarily designed for part-time students, whose work or personal circumstances change during the course of their study, which prevents them from completing the intended programme, but still affords them with certification of their completed modules. In the full-time mode, the MSc is usually completed in one academic year the PgDip in two semesters and the PgCert in one semester. Part-time students are normally expected to complete the MSc within three years the PgDip in two years and the PgCert in one year. Students have up to five years from first enrolment to complete the requirements for the award of an MSc. This table highlights the normal sequence of modules to be undertaken and the exit awards available : PROGRAMME MODULES (the language of instruction is English) Module Title Module Code Credit Level Credit Points Module Status Compulsory (C) / Optional (O) International Management BMG C International Business Environment BMG C International Leadership and HRM BMG Compulsory-DL Optional-Campus Award Business Research Methods BMG C PgCert E Business BMG C International Marketing MKT C International Entrepreneurship BMG Compulsory-DL Optional-Campus Global Policy and Strategy BMG C Field Consulting Project BMG Compulsory-Campus Not available -DL Dissertation BMG C MSc PgDip B11

12 13 SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS AND THEIR LEARNING Students and their learning are supported in a number of ways: Student handbook and programme-specific induction materials, LRC subject-based induction session for new and returning students (optional); WebCT and university software induction session for each year cohort ; Course Directors, also incorporating the Studies Adviser role; Easy access to Course Director, teaching and support staff; Regular meetings of Course Committee to monitor programme delivery and student progress; Staff/Student Consultative Meetings with each student cohort held at least once per semester agreed minutes are available to all programme registered students; Extensive electronic communications via student , WebCT, updated reading lists and module results; Formal liaison with campus-based International Office in support of overseas students; Detailed feedback provided on individual/group assignment presentations. Student Services Departments of the University of Ulster; Sport and Recreation Department ; Chaplaincy; Careers Development Centre; Personal studies advisor. 14 CRITERIA FOR ADMISSION Applicants must hold a degree [with at least 2:2 Honours standard for master s programmes] or equivalent or demonstrate their ability to undertake the programme through the accreditation of prior experiential learning. Applicants must : (a) have gained (i) a second-class honours degree or better from a university of the United Kingdom or the Republic of Ireland, in the field of business and management, from the Council for National Academic Awards, the National Council for educational Awards, the Higher Education and Training Awards Council, or from an institution of another country which is recognised as being of an equivalent standard; OR (ii) an equivalent standard (normally 50%) in a Postgraduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma, Graduate Certificate or an approved professional or other qualification; B12

13 (b) provide evidence of competence in written and spoken English (GCSE grade C or equivalent) Students whose first language is not English must have a minimum English of IELTS 6.0/TOEFL 550 or above; or or as an alternative to (a) (i) or (a) (ii) and/or (b): (c) in exceptional circumstances, where an individual has substantial and significant experiential learning, a portfolio of written evidence demonstrating the meeting of graduate qualities (including subject specific outcomes, as determined by the Course Committee) may be considered as an alternative entrance route. Evidence used to demonstrate graduate qualities may not be used for exemption against modules within the programme. 15 EVALUATING AND IMPROVING THE QUALITY AND STANDARD OF TEACHING AND LEARNING Processes and mechanisms used for reviewing and evaluating teaching, learning, assessment, the curriculum and outcome standards include: QAA Benchmark Guidelines for Masters Programmes in Business and Management (2007); Views of students as expressed through Staff/Student consultation and other feedback mechanisms, including the University Student Survey on the Quality of Teaching; Views of graduates in the National Student Survey; Views of employers; Views of external examiners for the programme; Student performance data and career progression; University processes for initial approval, periodic re-approval and annual monitoring; Staff membership of the Higher Education Academy and of other professional bodies; University and School strategies for teaching and learning. Staff interaction with the HEA and the BMAF Subject Centre. In addition, there are University and Faculty strategies for teaching and learning. B13

14 16 REGULATION OF STANDARDS The pass mark for the module shall be 50%. A pass in a module is now defined as the achievement of the overall pass mark, with a minimum mark of not less that 5% below this threshold in each assessment element where a module is assessed by a combination of coursework and examination To be awarded the Master of Science in International Business, students must have an overall mark of 50%. This includes eight taught modules of 15 credit points each (120 credit points), plus the dissertation (60 credit points). To achieve a Pass with Distinction at MSc level, a student must achieve an overall average of 70% or more and 70% or above in the dissertation module. Students who do not achieve sufficient credit to be awarded the master s degree or who chose not to proceed to the final stages of the programme may exit the programme with a Postgraduate Diploma in International Business provided they have passed all the modules in Years/Semesters 1 and 2 up to a value of at least 120 credit points (eight taught modules). To achieve a Pass with Distinction at Postgraduate Diploma level, a student must achieve an overall average of 70% or more. Students who do not achieve sufficient credit to be awarded the Postgraduate Diploma or who chose not to proceed to the final stages of the Postgraduate Diploma may exit the programme with a Postgraduate Certificate in International Business provided they have passed the first four modules up to a value of at least 60 credit points. To achieve a Pass with Distinction at Postgraduate Certificate level, a student must achieve an overall average of 70% or more. External Examiners There are currently two external examiners with moderation responsibilities - one for the campus-based programmes and one for the on-line programme. External examiners are academic subject or professional experts appointed from outside the University. Their key functions are to contribute to the assurance of the standards of the award and the fair treatment of students. They are involved in the moderation and approval of assessments and the moderation of the marking undertaken by internal examiners. The External Examiners report annually to the University. The role of the External Examiners is to report on quality and standards so that the validity of the degree to be awarded can be monitored. The full role and responsibilities of the External Examiners are set out in the University s Handbook for External Examiners. B14

15 17 INDICATORS OF QUALITY RELATING TO TEACHING AND LEARNING Examples are: The Business and Management Unit of Assessment (UoA) has achieved a highly creditable research profile in the 2008 RAE with 85% of its research recognised as international in terms of originality, significance and rigour. Outcome of the last QAA Subject Review, with Business and Management being awarded 24/24 (November 2001); Many staff in the Department hold post-graduate teaching qualifications; Many staff are research active; Members of the Course Committee act as External Examiners and as reviewers for a wide range of journals, including Strategic Outsourcing: An International Journal and the International Journal of Information Systems and Supply Chain Management. A number of grants (BMAF, HEIF) have been secured to support a range of teaching and learning related initiatives; Informal feedback from employers on the quality of students and their level of knowledge and skills has been excellent. B15