UNIVERSITY OF ULSTER PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION HONOURS SUBJECT TITLE: Human Resource Management MAIN, 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 www.ulst.ac.uk/faculty/modules 1. AWARD INSTITUTION/BODY: University of Ulster 2. TEACHING INSTITUTION: University of Ulster 3. LOCATION: Magee 4. ACCREDITED BY: 5. FINAL AWARD: BSc (Hons) Human Resource Management AND Main Subject Business BSc/BA (Hons) Major Subject with Human Resource Management 6. MODE OF ATTENDANCE: Full-time 7. SPECIALISMS: 8. COURSE/UCAS CODE: B324UM 9. DATE WRITTEN/REVISED: Effective from 2012/13 10. EDUCATIONAL AIMS OF THE COURSE HRM Main The primary aim of the Main Honours subject in HRM is to provide students with knowledge and understanding of a substantial and coherent set of modules in HRM. In addition, the Main aims to: - equip graduates with interpersonal and transferable skills appropriate to graduate level employment including employment related to HRM - 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 HRM on an equal basis, with another Honours Subject, giving students a sound perspective on both subjects. HRM Minor The primary aim of the Minor Honours subject in HRM is to provide students with a coherent study of HRM sufficient to give understanding of, and experience in, the application of principles and modes of thought in HRM. 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 HRM 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 HRM Main Knowledge and Understanding of: K1 Recognise the key events which lead to the emergence and evolution of human resource management as a relevant organisational activity K2 Demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of contemporary developments in both domestic and international human resource management K3 Evaluate the strategic imperative of human resource management for organisations K4 Develop the skills and abilities required to diagnose, facilitate and implement major change initiatives within organisations HRM Minor Knowledge and Understanding of: K1 Recognise the key events which lead to the emergence and evolution of human resource management as a relevant organisational activity K2 Demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of contemporary developments in both domestic and international human resource management K3 Evaluate the strategic imperative of human resource management for organisations 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/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, Practical HR planning and research projects 11I INTELLECTUAL QUALITIES HRM Main I1 I2 I3 Identify and synthesise relevant materials from multiple sources to assist in understanding human resource management concepts and practice Employ critical evaluation in researching and presenting evidence in support of arguments Estimate the impact of diversity in terms of culture, people and the management of business in the practice of human resource management HRM Minor I1 Identify and synthesise relevant materials from multiple sources to assist in understanding human resource management concepts and practice I2 Employ critical evaluation in researching and presenting evidence in support of arguments I3 Estimate the impact of diversity in terms of culture, people and the management of business in the practice of human resource management Teaching and Learning Methods: 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 HRM Main and Minor P1 Develop interpersonal skills, including effective listening, negotiating and leadership P2 Communicate effectively in written and oral form using a variety of media P3 Develop competence in using information technology to research areas of human resource management 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 HRM Main and Minor T1 Research and present qualitative information in an appropriate format T2 Develop personal ability in organisational skills and time management T3 Appreciate the skills required for working within a team environment 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 Learn to learn effectively is developed and promoted throughout the programme Ability to use IT tools for business and HRM is developed through the preparation of coursework.
11 PROGRAMME LEARNING OUTCOME MAP Please Note: The matrix displays only the measurable programme outcomes and where these are developed and assessed within the modules offered in the programme. MODULE OUTCOMES TITLES LEVEL CODE K1 K2 K3 K4 I1 I2 I3 P1 P2 P3 T1 T2 T3 HRM Minor Principles of Human Resource Management 4 BMG399 x x x x x x x x x x x Principles of Management 4 BMG119 x x x x x x x x x x Managing Employee Development 5 BMG397 x x x x x x x x x x x x Organisational Behaviour 5 BMG320 x x x x x x x x x x x Human Resource Strategy 6 BMG561 x x x x x x x x x x x x International and Comparative HRM 6 BMG594 x x x x x x x x x x x x HRM Main Principles of Human Resource Management 4 BMG399 x x x x x x x x x x Principles of Management 4 BMG119 x x x x x x Information and Study Skills Mgmt 4 BMG132 x x x x x x x x x x x x Managing Employee Development 5 BMG397 x x x x x x x x x x x x Organisational Behaviour 5 BMG320 x x x x x x x Project Management 5 BMG423 x x x x x x x x x x x x x Human Resource Strategy 6 BMG561 x x x x x x x x x x x x x International & Comparative HRM 6 BMG594 x x x x x x x x x x x x Leadership and Strategy 6 BMG547 x x x x x x x
BSc /BA (Hons) HRM Main and Minor 12. Structure and Requirements for the Award The BSc /BA (Hons) HRM Main and Minor are offered on a full-time basis. The programmes have been designed to take account of the needs of FT students and have been 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 advertising and are linked to the related QAA subject benchmark requirements for Business and Management. The programme design is compatible with the University Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme (CATS). 20 credit points are allocated to all modules within the Accounting Honours subject. For satisfactory completion of the programme students are required to accumulate passes in modules as follows: Successful completion of programme Main 180 CATS points Minor 120 CATS points Students on the HRM Main and Minor would normally take three years to complete the programme and are expected to accumulate passes in modules totalling 180 and 120 CATS points respectively. Structure of the Award The structure of the award is dependent on the nature of the programme: Main Level 4/5/6 3 compulsory modules at each level Minor 2 compulsory modules at each level Level 4 Level 4 consists of two compulsory modules, Principles of Human Resource Management and Principles of Management for the minor with the additional module Information and Studies Skills Management to make the Main offering. This provides an underpinning for the Minor and Main modules at Levels 5 and 6. Level 5 Level 5 consists of two compulsory modules, Managing Employee Development and Organisational Behaviour for the Minor with the additional module Project Management to make the Main offering. These modules develop the interrelated themes involved in the modern HRM environment and provides the basis for Level 6. Level 6 Level 6 consists of two compulsory modules, Human Resource Strategy and International and Comparative HRM for the Minor with the additional module Leadership and Strategy to make the Main offering. This consolidates the student s knowledge, experience and wider context of the modern HRM environment.
Honours Subject HRM Main Honours Subject HRM Minor Module Title Credit Level Credit Points Module Status Awards Principles of HRM 4 20 Compulsory Principles of Management 4 20 Compulsory Managing Employee Development 5 20 Compulsory Organisational Behaviour 5 20 Compulsory Human Resource Strategy 6 20 Compulsory International and Comparative HRM 6 20 Compulsory Principles of HRM 4 20 Compulsory Principles of Management 4 20 Compulsory Information and Study Skills Mgmt 4 20 Compulsory Project Management 5 20 Compulsory Managing Employee Development 5 20 Compulsory Organisational Behaviour 5 20 Compulsory Leadership and Strategy 6 20 Compulsory Human Resource Strategy 6 20 Compulsory International and Comparative HRM 6 20 Compulsory BA/BSc (Hons) Major subject with HRM BA/BSc (Hons) HRM and other Main Subject 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; A comprehensive induction programme takes place at the start of the course and is ongoing throughout semester 1, level 4 within the ISSM module 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 email 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; 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 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.
External Examiners There is one external examiner to review the range of subjects on the HRM Honours subject 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. 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
UNIVERSITY OF ULSTER PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION Honours Subject Title: Marketing MAIN, 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 www.ulst.ac.uk/faculty/modules 1. AWARD INSTITUTION/BODY: University of Ulster 2. TEACHING INSTITUTION: University of Ulster 3. LOCATION: Magee 4. ACCREDITED BY: 5. FINAL AWARD: BSc (Hons) MARKETING AND main Subject BSc/BA (Hons) Major Subject with Marketing 6. MODE OF ATTENDANCE: Full-time 7. SPECIALISMS: 8. COURSE/UCAS CODE: B324UM 9. DATE WRITTEN/REVISED: Effective from 2012/13 2. EDUCATIONAL AIMS OF THE COURSE Marketing Main The primary aim of the Main Honours subject in Marketing is to provide students with knowledge and understanding of a substantial and coherent set of modules in Marketing. In addition, the Main aims to: - equip graduates with interpersonal and transferable skills appropriate to graduate level employment including employment related to Marketing - 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 Marketing on an equal basis, with another Honours Subject, giving students a sound perspective on both subjects. Marketing Minor The primary aim of the Minor Honours subject in Marketing is to provide students with a coherent study of Marketing sufficient to give understanding of, and experience in, the application of principles and modes of thought in Marketing. 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 Marketing on a Minor basis, with another Honours Subject as the Major element. 3. 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 Marketing Main K1 Understand the specialised areas of Marketing: Marketing Communications and Market Research K2 Articulate the core role of Marketing in organisational success K3 Apply the Key aspects of marketing theory K4 Understand the potential dichotomy between aspects of Marketing theory and business practice K5 Understand the development and operation of markets for products and services K6 Discuss the changing nature of consumer demand. K7 Demonstrate knowledge of the management of key resources, financial and human, in order to exploit market opportunities. K8 Demonstrate knowledge of he potential for further research in the field of Business and Marketing Marketing Minor K1 Understand the specialised areas of Marketing: Marketing Communications and Market Research K2 Articulate the core role of Marketing in organisational success K3 Apply the Key aspects of marketing theory K4 Understand the potential dichotomy between aspects of Marketing theory and business practice K5 Understand the development and operation of markets for products and services K6 Discuss the changing nature of consumer demand.
Teaching and Learning Methods: 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/learnt and to broaden their individual knowledge and understanding of the subject. Assessment Methods: Demonstration of Knowledge and Understanding is through a combination of Coursework, Presentations, Written unseen examinations, Practical marketing planning and research projects 11I INTELLECTUAL QUALITIES Marketing Main and Minor I1 Apply a range of Intellectual skills and competencies specific to marketing I2 Utilise cognitive skills of critical thinking, analysis and synthesis I3 Locate, extract and analyse data from multiple sources, including correct acknowledgement and referencing of sources. Teaching and Learning Methods: 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 Marketing Main and Minor P1 P2 P3 Plan and manage a range of marketing projects, taking into account, industrial and commercial constraints Conduct research into marketing issues 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 Marketing Main and Minor T1 Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing T2 Solve problems and make decisions, Manage or manipulate numerical/statistical data. Work effectively within a team. Learn to learn effectively. Use IT tools for business and marketing. 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 and marketing is developed through the preparation of coursework
11 PROGRAMME LEARNING OUTCOME MAP Please Note: The matrix displays only the measurable programme outcomes and where these are developed and assessed within the modules offered in the programme. MODULE OUTCOMES TITLES LEVEL CODE K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 I1 I2 I3 P1 P2 P3 T1 T2 Marketing Minor Principles of Marketing 4 MKT301 x x x x x x x x x x Information and Study Skills Mgmt 4 BMG132 x x x x x x x Business and Market Research 5 MKT325 X x x x x x x x x x x x Marketing Communications 5 MKT326 X x x x x x x x x x x x Marketing Management 6 MKT508 X x x x x x x x x x x x x x International Marketing 6 MKT504 X x x x x x x x x x x x x Marketing Main Principles of Marketing 4 MKT301 x x x x x x x x x x Information and Study Skills Mgmt 4 BMG132 x x x x x x x Principles of Management 4 BMG119 x x x x x x x x x x Social Media for Business/Creative Thinking 5 NEW x x x x x x x x x x x Business and Market Research 5 MKT325 X x x x x x x x x x x x Marketing Communications 5 MKT326 X x x x x x x x x x x x x Marketing Management 6 MKT508 X x x x x x x x x x x x x x x International Marketing 6 MKT504 X x x x x x x x x x x x x x Innovation and Entrepreneurship 6 BMG558 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
12. STRUCTURE AND REQUIREMENTS FOR THE AWARD Requirements for the Award The Honours subject Marketing Main and Minor are offered on a full-time basis. The programmes have been designed to take account of the needs of FT students and have been 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 advertising and are linked to the related QAA subject benchmark requirements for Business and Management. The programme design is compatible with the University Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme (CATS). 20 credit points are allocated to all modules within the Accounting Honours subject. For satisfactory completion of the programme students are required to accumulate passes in modules as follows: Successful completion of programme Main 180 CATS points Minor 120 CATS points Students on the Marketing Main and Minor would normally take three years to complete the programme and are expected to accumulate passes in modules totalling 180 and 120 CATS points respectively. Structure of the Award The structure of the award is dependent on the nature of the programme: Main Level 4/5/6 3 compulsory modules at each level Minor 2 compulsory modules at each level Level 4 Level 4 consists of two compulsory modules, Principles of Marketing and Information and Study Skill Management for the Minor with the additional module Principles of Management to make the Main offering. This provides an underpinning for the Minor and Main modules at levels 5 and 6. Level 5 Level 5 consists of two compulsory modules, Marketing Communications and Business and Market Research for the Minor with the addition of module Social Media for Business/Creative Thinking to make the main offering. These modules develop the interrelated themes involved in the modern marketing environment and provides the basis for Level 6. Level 6 Level 6 consists of two compulsory modules, Marketing Management and International Marketing for the Minor with the additional module Innovation and Entrepreneurship to make the Main offering. This consolidates the student s knowledge, experience and wider context of the modern Marketing environment.
Honours Subject Marketing Main Honours Subject Marketing Minor Title Module C redi t Lev el C redi t Poi nts Mo dule Status Principles of Marketing 4 20 Compulsory Information and Study Skills Mgmt 4 20 Compulsory Marketing Communications 5 20 Compulsory Business and Market Research 5 20 Compulsory Marketing Management 6 20 Compulsory International Marketing 6 20 Compulsory Principles of Marketing 4 20 Compulsory Information and Study Skills Mgmt 4 20 Compulsory Principles of Management 4 20 Compulsory Marketing Communications 5 20 Compulsory Business and Market Research 5 20 Compulsory Social Media for Business/Creative Thinking 5 20 Compulsory Marketing Management 6 20 Compulsory International Marketing 6 20 Compulsory Entrepreneurship and Innovation 6 20 Compulsory Awa rds BA/BSc (Hons) Major subject with Marketing BA/BSc (Hons) Marketing and other main subject 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; A comprehensive induction programme takes place at the start of the course and is ongoing throughout semester 1, level 4 within the ISSM module 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 email 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; 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 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. External Examiners There is 1 external examiner to review the range of subjects on the BSc Hons Marketing Main and Minor programmes. 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. 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