UNIVERSITY OF ULSTER PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION. Honours Subject Business Studies Major and Honours Subject Business Minor

Transcription

1 SECTION B1 Programme Specifications UNIVERSITY OF ULSTER PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION HONOURS SUBJECT TITLE: BSc Hons Business Studies with Specialisms Honours Subject Business Studies Major and Honours Subject Business Minor PLEASE NOTE: This specification provides a concise summary of the main features of the subject strand 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 1. AWARD INSTITUTION/BODY: University of Ulster 2. TEACHING INSTITUTION: University of Ulster 3. LOCATION: Magee 4. ACCREDITED BY: 5. FINAL AWARD: BSc (Hons) Business Studies with Specialisms (CertHE and AB Exit Awards) BSc (Hons) Business Studies with Specialisms with DPP /DIAS (CertHE and AB Exit Awards) BSc (Hons) Business with minor subject BSc (Hons) Business with minor subject with DPP /DIAS BA/BSc (Hons) Major Subject with Business 6. MODE OF ATTENDANCE: Full-time and Part-time Major and Minor are in Full-time mode only 7. SPECIALISMS: Accounting/Marketing/General/Human Resource Management 8. COURSE/UCAS CODE: B324UM/B522UM 9. DATE WRITTEN/REVISED: Effective from 2012/ EDUCATIONAL AIMS OF THE PROGRAMME BSc (Hons) Business Studies with Specialisms The overall aim of the programme is to provide students with an academically challenging, integrated and intellectually stimulating study of the subjects and disciplines associated with a career in business. The programme provides opportunities for students to achieve and demonstrate the following learning: provide graduates with a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the concepts, theories and techniques across a wide range and depth of business and management areas; appreciate the complex relationships across the business environment and their application and importance in an integrated framework within a local, national, European and International context; promote excellence in subject area specific skills and intellectual skills; adopt an interdisciplinary approach to problem solving and decision making, encompassing a view of business and management derived from a wide variety

2 SECTION B1 Programme Specifications of learning sources, including independent study, reflective approaches, group activities and guided learning; encourage within students, creativity and adaptability; developing capabilities to evaluate and integrate theory and practice in a wide range of situations; develop in students the interpersonal and other transferable skills necessary to work effectively within the business environment, including, negotiation, presentation, numeracy, self-management and awareness, leadership and teamwork; stimulate an interest in business and management as an academic discipline with a view to encouraging an appreciation of the importance of adopting a strategy for lifelong learning and a willingness to continue personal and professional development after completion of undergraduate study; promote an understanding of the need to anticipate and manage change within the global business environment; In relation to the industrial placement period: - the ability to put theory into practice via work-based learning; - a deeper understanding of the complex and integrative nature of the business environment; - the further development of interpersonal and professional skills and management competencies. In relation to academic study abroad: - an expanded knowledge of the academic discipline, whilst absorbing another cultural and educational environment; - self -awareness and sensitivity to other cultures; - recognition of the advantages and implications of cultural diversity within the global business environment. Associate Bachelors Degree Exit Award The overall aim of the programme is to provide students with an academically challenging, integrated and intellectually stimulating study of the subjects and disciplines associated with a career in business. The Associate Bachelorship provides opportunities for students to achieve and demonstrate the following learning: promote excellence in subject area specific skills and intellectual skills; be aware of the need to adopt an interdisciplinary approach to problem solving and decision making, encompassing a view of business and management derived from a wide variety of learning sources, including independent study, reflective approaches, group activities and guided learning; promote within students, creativity and adaptability in a wide range of situations; develop in students a range of interpersonal and other transferable skills necessary to work within the business environment. stimulate an interest in business and management as an academic discipline with a view to encouraging an appreciation of the importance of adopting a strategy for lifelong learning and a willingness to continue personal and professional development after completion of undergraduate study.

3 SECTION B1 Programme Specifications Certificate of Higher Education Exit Award The overall aim of the programme is to provide students with an academically challenging, integrated and intellectually stimulating study of the subjects and disciplines associated with a career in business. The Certificate of Higher Education provides opportunities for students to achieve and demonstrate the following learning: promote excellence in subject area specific skills and intellectual skills; adopt an interdisciplinary approach to problem solving and decision making, encompassing a view of business and management derived from a wide variety of learning sources, including independent study, reflective approaches, group activities and guided learning; develop in students the interpersonal and other transferable skills necessary to work effectively within the business environment, including, negotiation, presentation, numeracy, self-management and awareness, leadership and teamwork; BSc (Hons) Business Studies Major The overall aim of the programme is to provide students with an academically challenging, integrated and intellectually stimulating study of the subjects and disciplines associated with a career in business. Within the overall aim the programme seeks to: provide graduates with a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the concepts, theories and techniques across a wide range and depth of business and management areas; appreciate the complex relationships across the business environment and their application and importance in an integrated framework within a local, national, European and International context; promote excellence in subject area specific skills and intellectual skills; adopt an interdisciplinary approach to problem solving and decision making, encompassing a view of business and management derived from a wide variety of learning sources, including independent study, reflective approaches, group activities and guided learning; encourage within students, creativity and adaptability; developing capabilities to evaluate and integrate theory and practice in a wide range of situations; develop in students the interpersonal and other transferable skills necessary to work effectively within the business environment, including, negotiation, presentation, numeracy, self-management and awareness, leadership and teamwork; stimulate an interest in business and management as an academic discipline with a view to encouraging an appreciation of the importance of adopting a strategy for life long learning and a willingness to continue personal and professional development after completion of undergraduate study; promote an understanding of the need to anticipate and manage change within the global business environment. In relation to the industrial placement period: the ability to put theory into practice via work-based learning;

4 SECTION B1 Programme Specifications a deeper understanding of the complex and integrative nature of the business environment; the further development of interpersonal and professional skills and management competencies. In relation to academic study abroad: an expanded knowledge of the academic discipline, whilst absorbing another cultural and educational environment; self -awareness and sensitivity to other cultures; recognition of the advantages and implications of cultural diversity within the global business environment. Business Minor The primary aim of the Business Minor Honours subject strand is to provide students from non business disciplines with exposure to specified aspects of business within a coherent path of study. In addition, the Minor aims to: - equip graduates with interpersonal and transferable skills appropriate to graduate level employment. - expose students to an academically challenging and intellectually stimulating course of study within a progressive and coherent pathway As part of the modular suite of programmes, it enables students to combine the study of Business on a Minor basis, with another Honours Subject as the Major element. 11. MAIN LEARNING OUTCOMES The following reference points were used to inform the development of the programme and its learning outcomes: 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; subject benchmark statement for Business and Management; national and University qualifications and credit frameworks; contemporary and anticipated future organisational practice The course provides opportunities for students to achieve and demonstrate the following learning. Successful students will be able to: 11K KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING OF SUBJECT K1 Consolidate knowledge of the concepts and theories relative to the development and operation of markets for resources, goods and services inclusive of an awareness of customer expectations, service and orientation; K2 Critically review the sources, uses and management of finance; inclusive of the use of accounting and other information systems for managerial applications; K3 Critically evaluate the issues concerned with the management and development of human resources within an organisation; K4 Extend knowledge of the development, management and exploitation of business and information systems, and impact of same upon organisations; comprehension and use of information technology for application in business and management;

5 SECTION B1 Programme Specifications K5 Apply appropriate diagnostic, creative skills and strategies within a changing environment, meeting the interests of stakeholders; develop an awareness and understanding of contemporary business issues. Diploma in International Academic Studies K6 Identify and describe some aspects of the geographical, cultural and educational context in the host institution. K7 Develop knowledge and understanding of their academic objectives in a different cultural and educational environment. Diploma in Professional Practice K8 Reflect on key employability skills required in a business environment. Associate Bachelors Degree Exit Award K1 Demonstrate a knowledge of the concepts and theories relative to the development and operation of markets for resources, goods and services inclusive of an awareness of customer expectations, service and orientation; K2 Demonstrate knowledge of the sources, uses and management of finance; inclusive of the use of accounting for managerial applications; K3 Formulate responses to the issues concerned with the management and development of human resources within an organisation; K4 Demonstrate a command of specialised skills in the development, management and exploitation of business and information systems, and impact of same upon organisations; comprehension and use of information technology for application in business and management; Certificate of Higher Education Exit Award K1 Demonstrate awareness of the concepts and theories relative to the development and operation of markets for resources, goods and services inclusive of an awareness of customer expectations, service and orientation; BSc (Hons) Business Studies Major K1 Demonstrate knowledge of the concepts and theories relative to the development and operation of markets for resources, goods and services inclusive of an awareness of customer expectations, service and orientation; K2 Appreciate the sources, uses and management of finance; inclusive of the use of accounting and other information systems for managerial applications; K3 Appreciate the issues concerned with the management and development of human resources within an organisation; K4 Appreciate the development, management and exploitation of business and information systems, and impact of same upon organisations; comprehension and use of information technology for application in business and management; K5 Develop appropriate policies and strategies within a changing environment, meeting the interests of stakeholders; develop an awareness and understanding of contemporary business issues. Business Minor K1 Consolidate and extend a systematic body of knowledge to specialised areas of business

6 SECTION B1 Programme Specifications K2 Exercise significant judgement in the core role of management in organisational success K3 Critically review key aspects of business principles K4 Transfer and apply diagnostic and creative skills in generic business processes K5 Consolidate and extend the environmental and organisational context within which business occurs. Learning and Teaching Methods that will enable the outcomes to be achieved:- Acquisition of Knowledge and Understanding is through a combination of Lectures, Seminars, Workshops, Practical Sessions and Self-Directed Learning at all level of the programme. Throughout, the learner is encouraged to undertake independent study both to supplement and consolidate what is being taught and learnt and to broaden their individual knowledge and understanding of the subject. Assessment Methods that enable the outcomes to be demonstrated:- Demonstration of Knowledge and Understanding is through a combination of Coursework, Presentations, Written unseen examinations, and Practical business planning and research projects 11I INTELLECTUAL QUALITIES BSc (Hons) Business Studies with Specialisms BSc (Hons) Business Studies Major and Business Minor I1 I2 I3 Apply a range of Intellectual skills and competencies specific to business Utilize cognitive skills of critical thinking, analysis and synthesis Locate, extract and analyse data from multiple sources, including correct acknowledgement and referencing of sources. Diploma in International Academic Studies I4 Recognise and respond appropriately to diverse cultural and educational learning environments. Diploma in Professional Practice I5 Work effectively within an organisation. Associate Bachelors Degree Exit Award I1 Apply some intellectual skills and competencies specific to Business Studies. I2 Apply cognitive skills of problem solving and analysis. I3 Locate, extract and analyse data from a number of sources, including correct acknowledgement and referencing of sources. Certificate of Higher Education Exit Award I1 Apply intellectual skills specific to the principles of Business Studies. I2 Utilise cognitive skills of problem solving I3 Locate and analyse data from directed sources, including correct acknowledgement and referencing of sources. Teaching and Learning Methods:

7 SECTION B1 Programme Specifications Acquisition of Intellectual Qualities is through a combination of Lectures, Seminars, Workshops, Practical Sessions and Self-Directed Learning at all level of the programme. Cognitive skills are developed particularly at Level 5 and 6. Throughout, the learner is encouraged to further develop intellectual qualities by undertaking independent study. Assessment Methods: Demonstration of Intellectual Qualities is through a combination of Coursework and Written unseen examinations. 11P PROFESSIONAL/PRACTICAL SKILLS P1 Plan and manage a business project, taking into account, industrial and commercial constraints P2 Conduct research into business and management issues P3 Communicate effectively using a variety of media and reporting formats used in business. Diploma in International Academic Studies P4 Adapt to the cultural and educational context of the host institution demonstrating where appropriate, communication style and language suited to the locality. Diploma in Professional Practice P5 Develop and enhance employability skills within an organisation Associate Bachelors Degree Exit Award P2 Plan and manage a business research project, taking into account commercial constraints P3 Communicate appropriately using a variety of reporting formats Certificate of Higher Education Exit Award P3 Communicate effectively BSc (Hons) Business Studies Major and Business Minor P1 Plan and manage a business project, P2 Conduct research into business and management issues P3 Communicate effectively using a variety of media and reporting formats used in business. Teaching and Learning Methods: Acquisition of Professional and/or Practical skills is through a combination of Lectures, Guest Speaker, Workshops, problem-based seminars and practical sessions, project preparation and implementation. Assessment Methods: Problem-based coursework, Project reports 11T TRANSFERABLE SKILLS BSc (Hons) Business Studies with Specialisms BSc (Hons) Business Studies Major and Business Minor

8 SECTION B1 Programme Specifications T1 T2 T3 T4 Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing Work effectively within a team. Manage or manipulate numerical/statistical data. Solve problems creatively and make decisions, Learn effectively. Use IT tools for business Diploma in International Academic Studies T5 Demonstrate effective interpersonal and social skills in an international setting. Diploma in Professional Practice T6 Understand their role and the influences on that role. Associate Bachelor s Degree Exit Award T1 T2 T3 T4 Use oral and written communication effectively Demonstrate an ability to effectively contribute to a team. Understand the need to manage numerical data. Solve straightforward advertising and business related problems and make appropriate proposals. Learn to learn effectively. Use IT tools for business. Certificate Higher Education Exit Award T1 T2 T3 T4 Use oral and written communication appropriately Demonstrate an ability to effectively contribute to a team Understand the need to manage numerical data Solve straightforward problems and propose solutions to aid decision making. Learn to learn effectively. Use IT tools for business. Teaching and Learning Methods: Acquisition of Transferable Skills is through a combination of Lectures, Seminars, Workshops, Practical Sessions and Self-Directed Learning at all level of the programme. Assessment Methods: T1 is developed and assessed through coursework, reports, oral presentations and project reports T2 is developed and assessed through group-based coursework assessment T3 is developed and assessed through project work T4 is developed and assessed through project and assignment work Learn to learn effectively is developed and promoted throughout the programme Ability to use IT tools for business is developed through the preparation of coursework

9 11. PROGRAMME LEARNING OUTCOME MAP Business Minor MODULE OUTCOMES TITLES LEVEL CODE K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 I1 I2 I3 P1 P2 P3 T1 T2 T3 T4 Principles of Management 4 bmg119 x x x x x x x x x x Information and Study Skills Management 4 bmg132 x Business Improvement 5 bmg422 x x x x x x x x X Project Management 5 bmg423 x x x x x x x x x x Leadership and Strategy 6 bmg547 x x x x x x x x x x x x x Finance for Decision Making 6 new x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x Business Studies Major MODULE OUTCOMES TITLES LEVEL CODE K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 I1 I2 I3 P1 P2 P3 T1 T2 T3 T4 Information Study Skills Management 4 BMG132 Principles of Management 4 BMG119 ( Economic Environment for Business 4 ECO102 Principles of Accounting 4 ACF108 Social Media for Business/Creative Thinking 5 NEW Project Management 5 BMG423 Business Improvement 5 BMG422 Management Information Systems 5 NEW Finance for Decision Making 6 NEW Leadership and Strategy 6 BMG547 Management of Change 6 NEW Innovation and Entrepreneurship 6 BMG558 Diploma in Professional Practice/Diploma in International Academic Studies MODULE TITLES LEVEL CODE K6 K7 K8 I4 I5 P4 P5 T5 T6 Diploma in Professional Practice 5 bmg300 x x x x Diploma in International Academic Studies 5 bei300 x x x x x

10 BSc Business Studies with Specialisms MODULE OUTCOMES TITLES Level CODE K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 I1 I2 I3 P1 P2 P3 T1 T2 T3 T4 Information & Study Skills Management 4 BMG132 Principles of Management 4 BMG119 ( Economic Environment for Business 4 ECO102 Principles of HRM 4 BMG399 Principles of Accounting 4 ACF108 Principles of Marketing 4 MKT301 Social Media for Business/Creative Thinking 5 NEW Project Management 5 BMG423 Business Improvement 5 BMG422 Business and Market Research 5 MKT325 Management Accounting 1 5 ACF311 Financial Accounting 1 5 ACF309 Managing Employee Development 5 BMG397 Organisational Behaviour 5 BMG320 Marketing Communications 5 MKT326 Copywriting Practice and Critiques 5 MKT339 Diploma in Professional Practice 5 BMG300 Diploma in International Academic Studies 5 BEI300 Finance for Decision Making 6 NEW Leadership and Strategy 6 BMG547 Management of Change 6 NEW Innovation and Entrepreneurship 6 BMG558 Marketing Management 6 MKT508 International and Comparative HR 6 BMG594 Management Accounting 2 6 ACF537 Financial Accounting 2 6 ACF540 International Marketing 6 MKT504 Human Resource Strategy 6 BMG561

11 Certificate of Higher Education MODULE OUTCOMES TITLES Level CODE K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 I1 I2 I3 P1 P2 P3 T1 T2 T3 T4 Information Study Skills Management 4 BMG132 Principles of Management 4 BMG119 ( Economic Environment for Business 4 ECO102 Principles of HRM 4 BMG399 Principles of Accounting 4 ACF108 Principles of Marketing 4 MKT301 Associate Bachelors MODULE OUTCOMES TITLES Level CODE K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 I1 I2 I3 P1 P2 P3 T1 T2 T3 T4 Information Study Skills Management 4 BMG132 Principles of Management 4 BMG119 ( Economic Environment for Business 4 ECO102 Principles of HRM 4 BMG399 Principles of Accounting 4 ACF108 Principles of Marketing 4 MKT301 Social Media for Business/Creative Thinking 5 NEW Project Management 5 BMG423 Business Improvement 5 BMG422 Business and Market Research 5 MKT325 Management Accounting 1 5 ACF311 Financial Accounting 1 5 ACF309 Managing Employee Development 5 BMG397 Organisational Behaviour 5 BMG320 Marketing Communications 5 MKT326 Copywriting Practice and Critiques 5 MKT339

12 12 STRUCTURE AND REQUIREMENTS FOR THE AWARD The BSc Hons Business Studies with Specialism (Single Honours) is offered on a fulltime and part-time basis. The BSc [Hons] Business Studies Major and Minor are offered on a full-time basis. The programmes are based on a combination of recent research and substantial experience within the Course Planning Team. The programme contains a common core of subjects that are fundamental to the area of business and are linked to the QAA subject benchmark requirements for Business and Management. The programme design is compatible with the University Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme (CATS). It allocates 20 credit points to all modules with the exception of the 60 credit points allocated to the optional Diploma in Professional Practice [DPP] and 120 credit points the Diploma in International Academic Studies [DIAS]. For satisfactory completion of the programme students are required to accumulate passes in modules as follows: Successful completion of programme Single Honours Major Minor 420 CATS with 300 CATS points with DPP DPP 480 with DIAS 360 with DIAS Full-time Full-t=ime 360 CATS Full-time and parttime 240 CATS Full-time 120 CATS points Full-time n/a Students on the BSc [Hons] Business Studies with Specialisms (full-time) would normally take either three years [without placement] or four years [with placement] to complete the programme and are expected to accumulate passes in modules totalling 420 credit points with DPP [120 points at each of levels 4, 5 or 6, with 60 points for DPP] and 480 credit points with DIAS [120 points at each of levels 4, 5 or 6, with 120 points for DIAS]. Students on the BSc [Hons] Business Studies with Specialisms (part-time) would normally take up to nine years [without placement] to complete the programme and are expected to accumulate passes in modules totalling 360 credit points. 120 points at each of levels 4, 5 or 6. Students on the BSc [Hons] Business Studies Major would normally take three years [without placement] or four years [with placement] to complete the programme and are expected to accumulate passes in modules totalling 300 [with DPP], 360 [with DIAS] or 240 [without DPP/DIAS] credit points. 80 points at each of levels 4, 5, or 6 with 60 points for DPP and 120 points for DIAS.

13 Students on the Business Minor would normally take three [without placement] or four years [with placement] to complete the programme and are expected to accumulate passes in modules totalling 180 [with DPP, 240 [with DIAS] or 120 [without DPP/DIAS] credit points. 40 points at each of levels 4, 5, and 6 with 60 points for DPP and 120 points for DIAS. Structure of the Award The structure of the award is dependent on the nature of the programme: Level 4 Level 5 Level 6 Single Honours (fulltime) 6 compulsory modules 4 compulsory modules and 2 optional modules 4 compulsory modules and 2 optional modules DPP/DIAS Industrial Placement or Study Abroad Single Honours (parttime) 6 compulsory modules 4 compulsory modules and 2 optional modules 4 compulsory modules and 2 optional modules n/a Major 4 compulsory modules 4 compulsory modules 4 compulsory modules Industrial Placement or Study Abroad Minor 2 compulsory modules 2 compulsory modules 2 compulsory modules n/a Level 4 consists of six compulsory modules which provides both an underpinning for the core modules at levels 5 and 6 and facilitates informed choice of specialism pathway at level 5 as students are able to sample the three specialism options before making a final decision at the start of level 5. The four compulsory modules at each of levels 5 and 6 develop the interrelated themes involved in the modern business environment. At the start of level 5 students confirm which specialism they will opt for. The choice is between Human Resource Management (HRM), Marketing (MKT) or Accounting (ACC). The modules associated with each specialism at levels 5 and 6 are clearly laid out on the Single Hons and Specialism s Map. Academic progression is made up of a core of 4 compulsory modules at levels 5 and 6 plus 2 optional modules at each level that are dictated by the specialism chosen. The specialism modules are similar to the HRM, Marketing and Accounting minors so there is a clear and coherent pedagogy. The introductory specialism modules are offered in semester 2 year 1, so as to enable students to experience each specialism before making a choice of which specialism they wish to follow. Further guidance on choice of specialism, is provided to students via each specialist coordinator and the Course Director. The specialism modules are as follows: Level 5 Level 6 Accounting HRM Marketing Management Accounting 1 Financial Accounting 1 Management Accounting 2 Financial Accounting 2 Organisational Behaviour Managing Employee Development International and Comparative HR HR Strategy Marketing Communications Copywriting Practice and Critique Marketing Management International Marketing

14 For full-time students, in the pre-final year of the four year programme students can elect to undertake either a period of paid industrial placement (leading to the award of the Diploma in Professional Practice, DPP or a period of study abroad under the Study America initiative (leading to the award of the Diploma in International Academic Studies, DIAS). Students, not undertaking the industrial placement or study abroad option will be encouraged to undertake the University s new EDGE award, to reinforce the development and application of employability skills. The language of instruction is English. EXIT AWARD OF CERTIFICATE OF HIGHER EDUCATION The Certificate of Higher Education is an exit qualification from the Single Honours Business Studies programme. This qualification can be awarded to those students who have successfully completed Level 4 of the Single Honours programme and who do not wish to proceed to next level; this provides some flexibility for part-time students in particular, who are unable to proceed with the programme due to changes in their work or personal situations. The award may also be granted to students who proceed to the level 5 but fail to successfully complete the level 5 modules of the Single Honours Business Studies programmes EXIT AWARD OF ASSOCIATE BACHELORS The Associate Bachelors degree is an exit qualification from the Single Honours Business Studies programme. This qualification can be awarded to those students who have successfully completed levels 4 and 5 of the Single Honours in Business Studies and who do not wish to proceed to the final level; this provides some flexibility for parttime students, in particular, who are unable to proceed with the programme due to changes in their work or personal situations. The award may also be granted to students who proceed to the final level but fail to successfully complete the level 6 modules of the Single Honours Business Studies programme Business Minor Module Title Credit Level Credit Points Module Status Principles of Management 4 20 Compulsory Information and Study Skills Management 4 20 Compulsory Business Improvement 5 20 Compulsory Project Management 5 20 Compulsory Finance for Decision Making 6 20 Compulsory Leadership and Strategy 6 20 Compulsory Business Minor

15 Single Honours BSc Hons Business Studies with Specialisms Honours Subject Business Major BSc Hons Business Studies with Specialisms Module Title Credit Level Credit Points Module Status Economic Environment for Business 4 20 Compulsory Principles of Management 4 20 Compulsory Principles of Accounting 4 20 Compulsory Information and Study Skills Management 4 20 Compulsory Social Media for Business/Creative Thinking 5 20 Compulsory Business Improvement 5 20 Compulsory Management Information Systems 5 20 Compulsory Project Management 5 20 Compulsory Finance for Decision Making 6 20 Compulsory Leadership and Strategy 6 20 Compulsory Innovation and Entrepreneurship 6 20 Compulsory Management of Change 6 20 Compulsory Economic Environment for Business 4 20 Compulsory Principles of Management 4 20 Compulsory Principles of HRM 4 20 Compulsory Principles of Marketing 4 20 Compulsory Principles of Accounting 4 20 Compulsory Information and Study Skills Management 4 20 Compulsory Social Media for Business/Creative Thinking 5 20 Compulsory Business Improvement 5 20 Compulsory Business and Market Research 5 20 Compulsory Project Management 5 20 Compulsory Organisational Behaviour 5 20 Optional Managing Employee Development 5 20 Optional Management Accounting Optional Financial Accounting Optional Copywriting Practice and Critiques 5 20 Optional Marketing Communications 5 20 Optional Finance for Decision Making 6 20 Compulsory Leadership and Strategy 6 20 Compulsory Innovation and Entrepreneurship 6 20 Compulsory Management of Change 6 20 Compulsory Management Accounting Optional Financial Accounting Optional International and Comparative HR 6 20 Optional Human Resource Strategy 6 20 Optional Marketing Management 6 20 Optional International Marketing 6 20 Optional Diploma in Professional Practice 5 60 Optional DPP Diploma in International Academic Studies Optional DIAS Awards CertHE Business Exit Award [120 credit points] Associate Bachelor Exit Award [240 credit points] BSc [Hons] Business Studies with Specialisms [360 credit points]

16 13. SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS AND THEIR LEARNING Students and their learning are supported in a number of ways: The Department has a comprehensive and phased induction process which is tailored for each year of the course; The Course Director coordinates the strategic and operational aspects of the course experience which provide both academic and personal student support; A Course Committee includes all academic staff teaching on the course. The minutes of the Course Committee meetings are discussed at Department Board and received by School Board; Each new student is allocated a Studies Adviser; Student attendance and performance are closely monitored and where appropriate students are provided with/directed to relevant support; Emphasis is placed on small group teaching at Level 4 and ways to enhance socialization, to help get to know students and encourage student interaction; and peer learning; The Information Services Department assists students in accessing Blackboard Learn and the Personal Development System (PDS) There is a Staff/Student Consultative Committee that meets once per semester to discuss student issues, outline their responsibilities, deliver health and safety information and inform students about developments affecting and supporting their learning. This includes action taken in relation to the External Examiners reports. The minutes of these meetings are received by, discussed and acted upon by the Course Committee. The Students Union offers training to Student Representatives; A Course Handbook provides all necessary information about the course, the staff teaching on the course and their contact details; Each module has a detailed handbook that outlines learning outcomes, assessment requirements, module content and required reading. Each handbook follows the Ulster Business School minimum content requirements as agreed by the School Teaching and Learning Committee; Academic staff place contact times and details in their module handbooks and on their office doors; The Career Development Centre helps students to determine their future career paths and a specialist adviser works with the students; The Placement Tutor for the course assists students with placement preparation and coordinates support whilst on placement via the Placement Assistant; The Information Services Department assists students in accessing WebCT and in obtaining an address. Module handbooks and other materials are placed on WebCT; The Learning Resource Centre provides a dedicated Faculty Librarian to support staff and students; The Student Support Department assists students with issues such as health, personal problems and disability;

17 The Department supports students with disabilities in compliance with SENDO for entry to and progress through the course; Sport and Recreation facilities are available for students on campus; The International Office assists in supporting overseas students; The Students Union is available for all registered students; A Chaplaincy service is available to counsel and advise students. 14. CRITERIA FOR ADMISSION Applicants must satisfy the University s general entry requirements as set out in the prospectus or demonstrate their ability to undertake the course through the accreditation of prior experiential learning (APEL). The initial offer standard may vary from year to year. See prospectus entry. In addition, applicants to the Minor subject must satisfy the specific requirements for admission to the Faculty sponsoring the corresponding Major subject. 15. EVALUATING AND IMPROVING THE QUALITY AND STANDARD OF TEACHING AND LEARNING Quality and standards are evaluated and improved through consideration of: Module evaluation questionnaires or freeform responses Module reviews provided to external examiners Peer Review of teaching and feedback Student Assessment of Teaching Questionnaires Annual Subject Monitoring Student performance data, career progression and feedback from alumni; Revalidation involving external and internal panel members University processes for initial approval, periodic re-approval and annual monitoring; Module monitoring processes and course team meetings (Course Committee); School and Department learning and teaching events and conferences; Views of graduates obtained through the National Student Survey; Views of students as expressed through the staff/student consultative committee; Views of employers obtained through formal and informal networks. Views of external examiners through visits and reports Committees with responsibility for monitoring and evaluating quality Staff/Student Consultative Committee meetings at least one per semester Course/Subject Committee meetings at least one per semester Board of Examiners School/Department Board meeting School Teaching and Learning Committee University Teaching and Learning Committee School Academic Development and Enhancement Committee

18 Staff Development includes: Updating the subject through research and scholarship Membership of Professional Bodies Participation in Staff Development and School teaching and learning workshops Consultancy Staff appraisal in terms of identifying staff development requirements; Staff membership of professional bodies; Staff interaction with the Higher Education Academy and the BMAF subject centre; Staff involvement with learning and teaching research initiatives. The teaching and learning experience of the student is also enhanced by the commitment of staff to professional and academic development, e.g. attending and contributing to conferences, leave of absence to pursue professional and research activities. 16. REGULATION OF STANDARDS Assessment rules Pass mark for each module is 40%. Performance levels for honours degree classifications are: Class I At least 70% Class II (division i) (IIi) At least 60% and less than 70% Class II (division ii) (IIii) At least 50% and less than 60% Class III At least 40% and less than 50% Honours classification derives 100% from Level 6 modules. Specific requirements In relation to the award of Diploma in Professional Practice OR Diploma in International Academic Studies, the threshold for progression to the final year of the associated degree programme shall be 40%. To be eligible for the award of [DPP/DIAS] candidates must have achieved an overall mark of at least 50% in the assessment requirements for the [placement year/year of study abroad] and have successfully completed the associated degree. The results of candidates shall be graded by order of merit as Pass with Commendation and Pass. The following shall be the minimum percentages used in determining the overall grading of candidates: Pass with Commendation 70% Pass 50% External Examiners There are 4 external examiners to review the range of subjects on the BSc Hons Business Studies with Specialisms 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

19 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. 17. INDICATORS OF QUALITY RELATING TO TEACHING AND LEARNING Programmes within the Ulster Business School were given a rating of 24 out of a total of 24 by the QAA subject review process in 2001 The QAA expressed confidence in both the standards and quality of postgraduate provision during the Developmental Engagement with Accountancy in 2003/04 Many teaching staff in the Department hold relevant postgraduate and professional qualifications including PGCHEP. Staff engage in research and consultancy activities with the subject area Academic staff are encouraged to become members of relevant professional bodies The Institutional Audit of April 2010 resulted in a very positive report which highlighted the University s commitment and achievement of an embedded academic quality culture. Some staff are research active and/or have backgrounds and experience in business and/or are involved in scholarly research activity, which feeds into module content and general management of the provision. National Student Survey