Nottingham Trent University Nottingham Business School

Transcription

1 Nottingham Trent University Nottingham Business School MSc in Higher Education Administration, Management & Leadership Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education Administration, Management & Leadership Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education Administration, Management & Leadership Course Specifications and Module Specifications July 2014 Documentation prepared by: Dr Zara Whysall MSc HE Administration, Management & Leadership May 2014

2 Contents Page Course Specification: PG Certificate in HE Administration, Management & Leadership 2 Course Specification: PG Diploma in HE Administration, Management & Leadership 7 Course Specification: MSc in HE Administration, Management & Leadership.12 1

3 Nottingham Trent University Course Specification Basic Course Information 1. Awarding Institution: Nottingham Trent University 2. School/Campus: Nottingham Business School 3. Final Award, Course Title and PG Certificate in HE Administration, Modes of Study: Management & Leadership (Part-time) 4. Normal Duration: Normal route: 24 months 5. UCAS Code: NA 6. Overview and general educational aims of the course The Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education Administration, Management and Leadership provides professional staff working in management and administration roles in higher education with a transformative experience to enhance their administrative, managerial and leadership capabilities. Upon successful completion of the Postgraduate Certificate students may proceed to the Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education Administration, Management and Leadership, and on successful completion of the Diploma, onto the MSc qualification in Higher Education Administration, Management and Leadership. The Postgraduate Certificate enables participants to develop their knowledge, skills and abilities as HE professionals, promoting excellence in management and administration in higher education. Distinctive features of the Postgraduate Certificate (PG Cert) include; A directed learning, self-managed, supported, work-based learning course which gives participants a large degree of control over the pace and timing of their learning A broad understanding and critical awareness of the current issues in the HE sector, developed through independent learning and research An opportunity for participants to develop and enhance their skills as reflective, professional practitioners Input and support from specialist academics and experienced HE professionals An opportunity for participants to develop their own management-related skills and apply them to real situations facing individuals working in management and administration roles in HE Specifically, the PG Cert in Higher Education Administration, Management and Leadership aims to allow you to: 1. Engage in a process of planned professional development, based on reflection and self-assessment of your skills and competencies in professional contexts 2. Develop a detailed understanding and critical awareness of current issues in the sector, through independent learning and research 3. Enhance your professional practice through critical appraisal of, and reflection on, your knowledge, skills, behaviours and values 4. Develop reflective skills enabling you to apply your knowledge and understanding to evaluate and analyse your practice and experiences 7. Course outcomes Course outcomes describe what you should know and be able to do by the end of your course if you take advantage of the opportunities for learning that we provide. Knowledge and understanding. On successful completion of the course you should be able to: 2

4 C1 Demonstrate an understanding of contemporary issues, theories and ideologies relating to administration, management & leadership in the HE Sector. C2 Apply & interpret the theory and practice of administration, management and leadership within the HE Sector. C3 Show an appreciation of the wider social, environmental and economic sustainability issues and their interrelationships which may be impacted by or have an impact on organisational activities Skills, qualities and attributes. On successful completion of the course you should be able to: C4 Demonstrate an aptitude for independent critical thought and rational inquiry. C5 Effectively use information drawn from existing research and scholarship to address key issues within the HE context C6 Critically self-reflect, and demonstrate an international awareness, based on an appreciation of social and cultural diversity C7 Make decisions and exercise judgement based on an understanding of contemporary issues, theories and ideologies relating to administration, management & leadership in the HE Sector. 8. Teaching and Learning Methods A key feature of the learning and teaching strategy is the focus on student-centred, supported self-directed learning. The teaching and learning ethos is the desire to encourage participants to be reflective, to be able to use theoretical knowledge creatively in a variety of contexts, use initiative, and apply management and leadership skills appropriately. The learning methods encompass short study blocks and directed independent study. Study blocks incorporate a range of group discussion and reflection activities, lectures, and presentations. They provide an effective way of introducing new topics for study and setting the context of forthcoming learning activities. Independent study is supported by a blend of e-learning materials, with additional support from personal mentors. The mentor relationship is a key support mechanism of the course. Mentors are professional HE managers and administrators and are fully trained to provide support for the participant in facilitating their own self-directed learning. One of the purposes of the mentoring arrangement is to broaden perspectives and to challenge thinking beyond the immediate professional context. For that reason, mentors will work at a different institution. This creates a dynamic which values professional diversity and increases the opportunity for exploring the whole spectrum of higher education. The virtual learning environment (VLE) will provide learning support and materials during the course, particularly to allow participants to access learning materials and resources in between study blocks and assignments. All course materials will be available on the VLE, plus electronic access to the University s library. This allows participants the flexibility to obtain the course information wherever and whenever they wish. 9. Assessment Methods The course uses both formative assessment, to help participants to develop their skills and test their learning to date, and summative assessments that count towards participants final awards. The assessments are designed to test all course learning outcomes set out in Section 7. 3

5 The assessments for the course are as follows: Module 1: The UK HE Sector Three knowledge assignments, in areas selected by the participant from a broad list of areas 3000 word knowledge assignment formative 50% 3000 word knowledge assignment - summative 50% 3000 word knowledge assignment - summative Module 2: Reflective practice in work-based learning 50% 3000 word professional behaviours assignment 50% 2000 word portfolio of practice 10. Course structure and curriculum The course consists of two modules: CATS* PC Cert 1 Induction & The UK HE Sector 30 2 Reflective Practice for work-based learning 30 Total CATS 60 *CATS = Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme The course is studied on a part time basis with each module being delivered in short blocks of 2 days (module 1) and 1 day (module 2), supported by directed independent learning and mentoring. Typically two cohorts run each year (subject to participant numbers), one with the study days delivered in London and the other with study days delivered in Nottingham, giving participants the choice of which cohort they wish to enrol onto. The structure of the programme has been designed to offer a balance of independent study, as well as working and learning with peers from other institutions on the programme. Module 1 allows participants to look at a number of current issues in the HE sector, to analyse and evaluate the existing knowledge base pertaining to higher education, thereby developing a systematic understanding and critical awareness of current issues in the sector. Module 2 allows participants to analyse and evaluate their knowledge of the HE sector and apply this to their own practice and the context in which they work. Through critical reflection on their knowledge, practice, experiences and learning, participants will demonstrate their ability to apply reflective skills to improve practice and to support their continuing professional development and personal improvement. 11. Admission to the course Entry requirements For current information regarding all entry requirements for this course, please see the `Applying tab on the course information web page. 12. Support for Learning The course team coordinates the academic support and other facilities available to all students enrolled on the course. In addition, a nominated mentor will monitor and support participants progress on an individual basis. 4

6 The library, IT and other learning resources are continually updated to ensure they are fit for purpose. In addition, University central support offers a range of professional services (including personal counselling) which are available on request and are publicised by the providers of those services. University central support departments include language support via the Nottingham Language Centre, Student Support Services, and the Careers Service. Participants personal mentor can often also assist, if appropriate, in finding the relevant sources of help. An induction event, immediately prior to the start of the first module of the course, will include: an introduction to the course and the modules you will be studying, an introduction to the VLE, an introduction to University library resources and sources of help and student support services. A student handbook, made available to all students at induction, will provide essential information about the course requirements and key contacts for use throughout your period of study, and the support provided for your learning. 13. Graduate destinations / employability In recent years, HE has undergone unprecedented levels of change and diversification, with the administration and management of HE expanding to meet these challenges. In this context, HE institutions require administrative and managerial staff who command a wide range of skills and knowledge, and are competent in applying their experience in a highly complex and wide-ranging professional environment. The programme is designed to help individuals rise to these challenges and fulfil their potential as professional managers and administrators. Once this Course is completed successfully you may proceed to the Postgraduate Diploma in HE Administration, Management & Leadership, and may then progress onto the Masters in HE Administration, Management & Leadership. 14. Course standards and quality Course standards and quality are maintained in a number of ways, by the University in collaboration with the AUA. This includes: Feedback from participants and mentors On completion of each module, participants are invited to complete a module evaluation form, and at the end of the course a course evaluation form. A summary of the feedback is shared with the course team. An annual survey of participants and mentors is carried out by the AUA Programme Coordinator, who submits a report to the Course team. Course Committee (including student representatives from each cohort) The committee meets during or after each module to consider the health of the course and to ensure that the University standards are being met. This committee looks at delivery of modules and feedback from students. It will also look at how the course and overall student experience can be developed for future cohorts. Student representatives from each cohort are elected by students to represent their views. Module leaders and the Course Leader produce an annual Course Standards and Quality Report (CSQR) reflective report on each module and the course as a whole. Both of these feed into the School Report and thus ensure that issues that need to be addressed or opportunities for enhancements are raised and reviewed by members of the management team at regular intervals during the life of a course. The course team ensures the continuing relevance of course content by conducting an annual review of all content and documentation, consulting 5

7 respected professional practitioners. External Examiners The examination board operates in accordance with current University policy and procedures as stated in the Quality handbook. External examiners report on the appropriateness of the curriculum, the quality of student work and the assessment process. Further quality assurances are built into the course with course team meetings and module team meetings. Current national subject benchmarks for masters courses (identifying characteristic features of postgraduate), together with graduate attributes sought by employers, have informed course learning outcomes (see Section 7 above). The course is also subject to the standards laid down by the University Quality Handbook. Mechanisms are built into the quality assurance, such that developments or amendments to the course are fed back to participants, and external examiners. 15. Assessment regulations This course is subject to the University s Common Assessment Regulations (located in its Quality Handbook). Any course specific assessment features are described below: The course is governed by the University assessment regulations as indicated in the Quality Handbook. 16. Additional Information Collaborative partner(s): Course referenced to national QAA Benchmark Statements: Course recognised by: Date implemented: Any additional information: Association of University Administrators (AUA) QAA Framework for higher education qualifications August 2008 QAA benchmark statement for Masters degrees in business and management (2007) 6

8 Nottingham Trent University Course Specification Basic Course Information 1. Awarding Institution: Nottingham Trent University 2. School/Campus: Nottingham Business School 3. Final Award, Course Title and PG Diploma in HE Administration, Modes of Study: Management & Leadership (Part-time) 4. Normal Duration: 10 months 5. UCAS Code: NA 6. Overview and general educational aims of the course This is an innovative course that provides professional staff working in management and administration roles in higher education with a transformative experience to enhance their administrative, managerial and leadership capabilities. The course provides a pathway for staff working in management and administration roles in higher education with a progression route to support their career development. The course enables participants to develop their knowledge, skills and abilities as HE professionals, promoting excellence in management and administration in higher education. Specific distinctive features of the course include; A directed learning, self-managed, supported, work-based learning programme which gives participants a large degree of control over the pace and timing of their learning A solid understanding and critical awareness of the current issues in the HE sector, developed through independent learning and research An opportunity for participants to develop and enhance their skills as reflective practitioners Input and support from specialist academics and experienced HE professionals An opportunity to develop your own management related skills and apply them to real situations facing staff working in management and administration roles in HE The aim of the course is to build upon your existing knowledge and experience, to provide practical and work-based ways to develop leadership skills, a sensitivity to organisational issues in HE and an ability to deliver and promote excellence in a HE context. The PG Diploma in Higher Education Administration, Management and Leadership aims to: 1. Develop and enhance participants management and leadership knowledge through providing a stimulating and supportive learning environment 2. Enhance professional practice through critical appraisal, reflection, and application of management and leadership knowledge, skills, behaviours and values 3. Develop transferable skills (including verbal and written communication, working in teams, problem identification, research, making presentations and working with data) 7. Course outcomes Course outcomes describe what you should know and be able to do by the end of your course if you take advantage of the opportunities for learning that we provide. Knowledge and understanding By the end of the course you should be able to: 7

9 On successful completion of the programme participants should be able to not only demonstrate the learning outcomes for the PG Cert stage but should also be able to: D1 Demonstrate a critical understanding of contemporary issues, theories and ideologies relating to administration, management & leadership and how they apply to your institution. D2 Apply knowledge, tools and techniques to resolve strategic and managerial issues within your organisation. D3 Show creativity and intellectual curiosity in the application and synthesis of knowledge. D4 Display an awareness of an ethical and sustainable approach to finance within HE institutions. Skills, qualities and attributes By the end of the course you should be able to: On successful completion of the programme participants should be able to not only demonstrate the learning outcomes for the PG Cert stage but should also be able to: D5 Analyse a variety of relevant data to support decision-making within your institution. D6 Communicate key issues and arguments in written and oral format to a professional standard. D7 Work collaboratively in diverse teams. D8 Demonstrate the ability to make recommendations for organisational practice based on theoretical insights through a process of experiential or applied learning. 8. Teaching and Learning Methods A key feature of the learning and teaching strategy is the focus on student centred, experiential and applied learning. The teaching and learning ethos is to encourage participants to be reflective, to be able to use theoretical knowledge creatively in a variety of contexts, use initiative, and apply management and leadership skills appropriately. The learning methods encompass short study blocks and directed independent study. Study blocks incorporate a range of teaching and learning methods such as group exercises, case studies, reflection, lectures, presentations and videos. Independent study is supported by a blend of multi-media e-learning materials, with additional support from module leaders. The course will also use NOW, the University s virtual learning environment as a means of learning support and guidance, providing materials and testing facilities (e.g. on-line testing of knowledge) during the course, but particularly to allow participants to access learning materials and resources in between study blocks and assignments. All course materials will be available on the virtual learning environment; the course handbook, the module documents, the module slides, plus electronic access to the University s library. This allows participants the flexibility to obtain the course information wherever and whenever they wish. 9. Assessment Methods The course uses summative assessments to enable you to demonstrate your ability to apply knowledge and skills, as well as an understanding of the academic theories. The assessments are designed to test all course learning outcomes, and include written assignments and presentations. 8

10 Module 3: From Strategy to Practice 80% 4000 word report 20% Group presentation (20 mins + Q&A) Module 4: Managing and Leading People & Change in HE 80% 4000 word report 20% Group Presentation (20 mins + Q&A) 10. Course structure and curriculum The PG Diploma in HE Administration, Management & Leadership is studied on a part time basis with each module delivered in short blocks of 3 days, supported by directed independent learning. Building on the structure of the PG Certificate in HE Administration, Management & Leadership, the structure of the course has been designed to offer a balance of independent study, as well as working and learning with peers from other institutions on the course. The Course consists of 2 core modules: CATS* PG Dip 3 From Strategy to Practice 30 4 Managing & Leading People and Change in HE 30 Total CATS 60 *CATS = Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme Module 3: From Strategy to Practice (30 M level Credit Points) Module 4: Managing & Leading People and Change in HE (30 M level Credit Points) The PG Diploma builds on the knowledge developed at the PG Cert stage by providing a grounding of the key functional areas and activities within HE, with an emphasis on imparting the skills required for effective management and leadership. 11. Admission to the course Entry requirements For current information regarding all entry requirements for this course, please see the `Applying tab on the course information web page. 12. Support for Learning The course leader, together with the course administrator and the course team, coordinate the academic support and other facilities available to all students enrolled on the course. All contact details are provided in the course handbook. An induction, immediately prior to the start of the first module of the course, will include: an introduction to the course and the modules you will be studying, introduction to university I.T. facilities and Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), other sources of help and student support services. A student handbook, made available to all students at induction, will provide you with essential information about the Nottingham Business School for use throughout your period of study, and the support provided for your learning. 9

11 The library, IT and other learning resources are continually updated to ensure they are fit for purpose. In addition, University central support offers a range of professional services (including personal counselling) which are available on request and are publicised by the providers of those services. University central support departments include language support via the Nottingham Language Centre, Student Support Services, and the Careers Service. 13. Graduate destinations / employability In recent years, HE has undergone unprecedented levels of change and diversification, with the administration and management of HE expanding to meet these challenges. In this context, HE institutions require administrative and managerial staff who command a wide range of skills and knowledge, and are competent in applying their experience in a highly complex and wide-ranging professional environment. The programme is designed to help individuals rise to these challenges and fulfil their potential as professional managers and administrators. Once this course is completed successfully you may proceed to the MSc in HE Administration, Management & Leadership. 14. Course standards and quality Course standards and quality are maintained in a number of ways. For example: A Course Committee, which includes student representatives from each current cohort, meets during or after each module to consider the course to ensure that the University standards are being met, and to consider the health of the course. This committee will look at the delivery of the modules, the performance on assessments and feedback from students. It will also look at how the course and overall student experience can be developed for future cohorts. Student representatives from each cohort are elected by students to represent their views at programme committees. Module leaders produce an annual reflective report on each module as well as the Course Leader both of these feed into the School Report and thus ensure that issues that need to be addressed or opportunities for enhancements are raised and reviewed by members of the management team at regular intervals during the life of a course. The course team ensures the continuing relevance of course content by consulting respected professional practitioners, such as employers, professional bodies and other academic institutions. The research interests of the staff also enhance the curriculum. The examination board will operate in accordance with current University policy and procedures as stated in the Academic Standards and Quality handbook. External examiners report on the appropriateness of the curriculum, the quality of student work and the assessment process. Further quality assurances are built into the Courses with course team meetings and module team meetings. Current national subject benchmarks for masters courses (identifying characteristic features of postgraduate), together with graduate attributes sought by employers, have informed course learning outcomes (see Section 7 above). The course is also subject to the standards laid down by the University Handbook. Mechanisms are built into the quality assurance, such that developments or amendments to the programme are fed back to participants, and external examiners. 10

12 15. Assessment regulations This course is subject to the University s Common Assessment Regulations (located in its Quality Handbook). Any course specific assessment features are described below: The course is governed by the University assessment regulations as indicated in the Quality Handbook. 16. Additional Information Collaborative partner(s): Course referenced to national QAA Benchmark Statements: Course recognised by: Date implemented: Any additional information: QAA Framework for higher education qualifications August 2008 QAA benchmark statement for Masters degrees in business and management (2007) 11

13 Nottingham Trent University Course Specification Basic Course Information 1. Awarding Institution: Nottingham Trent University 2. School/Campus: Nottingham Business School 3. Final Award, Course Title and MSc in HE Administration, Management Modes of Study: & Leadership (Part-time) 4. Normal Duration: 12 months 5. UCAS Code: NA 6. Overview and general educational aims of the course The MSc in Higher Education Administration, Management and Leadership is an innovative course that provides professional staff working in management and administration roles in higher education with a transformative experience to enhance their administrative, managerial and leadership capabilities. Building on the Post Graduate Certificate and Post Graduate Diploma in Higher Education Administration, Management and Leadership, it provides a pathway for staff working in management and administration roles in higher education with a progression route to support their career development. The course enables participants to develop their knowledge, skills and abilities as HE professionals, promoting excellence in management and administration in higher education. Specific distinctive features of the course include; A directed learning, self-managed, supported, work-based learning programme which gives participants a large degree of control over the pace and timing of their learning A solid understanding and critical awareness of the current issues in the HE sector, developed through independent learning and research An opportunity for participants to develop and enhance their skills as reflective practitioners and critical thinkers An opportunity to develop personal management and research skills and apply them to real challenges affecting their institution Input and support from specialist academics and experienced HE professionals The aim of the MSc in Higher Education Administration, Management and Leadership is to build upon participants existing experience, and to provide practical and work-based ways to develop your managerial understanding, your sensitivity to organisational issues and your ability to deliver and promote excellence in a HE context. The MSc in Higher Education Administration, Management and Leadership aims to: 1. Develop and enhance participants management and leadership knowledge through providing a stimulating and supportive learning environment 2. Enhance professional practice through critical appraisal, reflection, and application of management and leadership knowledge, skills, behaviours and values 3. Develop transferable skills (including verbal and written communication, working in teams, problem identification, research, making presentations and working with data) 7. Course outcomes Course outcomes describe what you should know and be able to do by the end of your course if you take advantage of the opportunities for learning that we provide. Knowledge and understanding By the end of the course you should be able to: 12

14 M1 Demonstrate a critical understanding of how contemporary issues, theories and ideologies in administration, management & leadership can be applied to improve current practice in your institution and the HE Sector in general. M2 Evaluate the rigour and validity of published research and assess its relevance to the HE sector, synthesising existing research to identify alternative approaches M3 Display proficiency in the use of techniques of research and enquiry to draw conclusions from a critical evaluation of relevant issues M4 Demonstrate a critical understanding of your role and organisation in the global HE context. Skills, qualities and attributes By the end of the course you should be able to: M5 Critically evaluate relevant sources of information and utilise your findings to make influential and persuasive recommendations M6 Conduct independent research enabling the investigation and evaluation of valid and relevant admin, management and leadership issues in the HE Sector M7 Display a proficiency in the choice and application of appropriate research methods and from detailed, critical analysis, draw conclusions to inform future organisational best practice 8. Teaching and Learning Methods A key feature of the learning and teaching strategy is the focus on student centred, experiential and applied learning. The teaching and learning ethos is to encourage participants to be critically reflective, to be able to use theoretical knowledge creatively in a variety of contexts, use initiative, and apply management and leadership skills appropriately to solve real issues affecting HE institutions. The learning methods encompass short study blocks and directed independent study. Study blocks incorporate a range of teaching and learning methods such as group exercises, case studies, reflection, lectures, presentations and videos. Independent study is supported by a blend of multi-media e-learning materials, with additional support from module leaders. The course will also use NOW, the University s virtual learning environment as a means of learning support and guidance, providing materials and testing facilities (e.g. on-line testing of knowledge) during the course, but particularly to allow participants to access learning materials and resources in between study blocks and assignments. All course materials will be available on the virtual learning environment; the course handbook, the module documents, the module slides, plus electronic access to the University s library. This allows participants the flexibility to obtain the course information wherever and whenever they wish. 9. Assessment Methods The course uses summative assessments to enable you to demonstrate your ability to apply knowledge and skills, as well as an understanding of the academic theories and research. The assessments are designed to test all course learning outcomes, and include a written research proposal, a written research dissertation, and a poster presentation. Module 5: Applied Research Skills 80% word Management Research Proposal and Plan 20% Poster Presentation 13

15 Module 6: Management Research project 50% 6000 word Management Report (including recommendations and suggested implementation plan) 50% 3500 word Applied Management Journal Article (style and format of AUA s Perspectives: Policy & Practice in Higher Education ) 10. Course structure and curriculum The MSc in HE Administration, Management & Leadership is studied on a part-time basis and consists of 2 core modules: CATS* MSc 5 Applied Research Skills 20 6 Management Research Project 40 Total CATS 60 *CATS = Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme Module 5: Applied Research Skills (20 M level Credit Points) The Applied Research Skills module prepares you to plan, undertake and analyse your research effectively, enabling you to develop and exploit your skills of critical evaluation and objectivity. Module 6: Management Research Project (40 M level Credit Points) The final module, and culmination of your MSc journey, is the Management Research Project. An investigation into a relevant management or leadership topic of your choice, this module allows you to develop an area of interest, showcase your skills of critical evaluation and offers the potential to make genuine recommendations for improvement within your institution and/or the sector as a whole. You will be allocated a research project supervisor who will provide periodic one to one support and advice. 11. Admission to the course Entry requirements For current information regarding all entry requirements for this course, please see the `Applying tab on the course information web page. 12. Support for Learning The course leader, together with the course administrator and the course team, coordinates the academic support and other facilities available to all students enrolled on the course. In addition, a nominated research project supervisor will monitor and support participants progress on an individual basis. The library, IT and other learning resources are continually updated to ensure they are fit for purpose. In addition, University central support offers a range of professional services (including personal counselling) which are available on request and are publicised by the providers of those services. University central support departments include language support via the Nottingham Language Centre, Student Support Services, and the Careers Service. Your personal academic tutor can often also assist you, if appropriate, in finding the relevant sources of help. 14

16 An induction, immediately prior to the start of the first module of the course, will include: an introduction to the course and the modules, introduction to university I.T. facilities and sources of help and student support services. A student handbook, made available to all students at induction, will provide you with essential information about the Nottingham Business School for use throughout your period of study, and the support provided for your learning. 13. Graduate destinations / employability In recent years, HE has undergone unprecedented levels of change and diversification, with the administration and management of HE expanding to meet these challenges. In this context, HE institutions require administrative and managerial staff who command a wide range of skills and knowledge, and are competent in applying their experience in a highly complex and wide-ranging professional environment. The course is designed to help individuals rise to these challenges and fulfil their potential as professional managers and administrators. 14. Course standards and quality Course standards and quality are maintained in a number of ways. For example: A Course Committee, which includes student representatives from each current cohort, meets during or after each module to consider the course to ensure that the University standards are being met, and to consider the health of the course. This committee will look at the delivery of the modules, the performance on assessments and feedback from students. It will also look at how the course and overall student experience can be developed for future cohorts. Student representatives from each cohort are elected by students to represent their views at course committees. Module leaders produce an annual reflective report on each module as well as the Course Leader both of these feed into the School Report and thus ensure that issues that need to be addressed or opportunities for enhancements are raised and reviewed by members of the management team at regular intervals during the life of a course. The course team ensures the continuing relevance of course content by consulting respected professional practitioners, such as employers, professional bodies and other academic institutions. The research interests of the staff also enhance the curriculum. The examination board will operate in accordance with current University policy and procedures as stated in the Academic Standards and Quality handbook. External examiners report on the appropriateness of the curriculum, the quality of student work and the assessment process. Further quality assurances are built into the course with course team meetings and module team meetings. Current national subject benchmarks for masters courses (identifying characteristic features of postgraduate), together with graduate attributes sought by employers, have informed course learning outcomes (see Section 7 above). The course is also subject to the standards laid down by the University Quality Handbook. Mechanisms are built into the quality assurance, such that developments or amendments to the programme are fed back to participants, and external examiners. 15. Assessment regulations This course is subject to the University s Common Assessment 15

17 Regulations (located in its Quality Handbook). Any course specific assessment features are described below: The course is governed by the University assessment regulations as indicated in the Quality Handbook. 16. Additional Information Collaborative partner(s): Course referenced to national QAA Benchmark Statements: Course recognised by: Date implemented: Any additional information: QAA Framework for higher education qualifications August 2008 QAA benchmark statement for Masters degrees in business and management (2007) 16