MSc Strategic Business Management MSc International Human Resource Management MSc International Marketing MSc Corporate Financial Management Full Time - 1 year or Part Time - 2 years September 2016 Programme Demands Document 1
Introduction This document is produced by The University of Law for the information of prospective students. It explains the requirements of undergraduate courses in order that can assess what adjustments they may require in order to undertake their course. Detailed questions about the extent of adjustments which may be made should be addressed to the Disability Support Service. This document may be made available to medical practitioners who may be asked to provide a professional judgement on the ability of an applicant to complete the course. The information included is an indicative guide for 2016 intake only. Students who enrol on the course will be subject to the course regulations in force at that time. Details of the MSc Degrees, can be found on the University of Law and De Broc s website. Modes of Study The programme can be studied, either 1 year full time or 2 years part time with timetabled sessions taking place in University. Entry onto the courses is in September or January. Timetabled sessions will consist of small group (approx. 25) workshops in classrooms. For any 30 credit module there is 60 contact hours per 12 week semester: 5 hours per teaching week 1 X 1 hour large workshops and 2 X 2 hour small workshop sessions. 15 credit modules have 1 X 1 hour large workshops and 2 X 2 hour small workshop sessions. There are 240 hours of self-study for each 30 credit module 20 hours per week. For any 15 credit module there is 36 contact hours per 12 week semester: 3 hours per teaching week 1 X 1 hour large workshops and 1 X 2 hour small workshop sessions. There are 114 hours of self-study for each 15 credit module approximately 10 hours per week. The self-study hours reflect the expectation of PG students as autonomous learners. The Dissertation module will attract 6 hours supervision per student and will also include small workshop sessions for its taught elements research and professional skills. Independent learning while at home or in University using online systems is also required, as is the use of the University library. Summary of Key Learning Outcomes Critically de-construct and apply factual and conceptual knowledge from across all aspects of Business and Management to complex strategic problem situations, demonstrating sensitivity to contending value systems and contextual constraints Call on a comprehensive understanding of a wide range of strategic analytical techniques and methodologies used in Business and Management and source and format appropriate information in relating to Business and Management research Critically evaluate synthesise the impact of ethical issues in Business and Management across societal, geographic and economic boundaries and contribute to current marketing debates. 2
Effective decision making through pertinent selection and use of appropriate models and frameworks Evaluate, synthesise and contribute to contemporary national and global developments and debates on business and management Preliminary Knowledge and Skills Generic skills associated with the entry criteria for the MSc awards. Where English is not your first language you will need a sufficient command of English to follow the course to a successful conclusion a score of 6.5 (with 6 in each area) or above in all subjects of the IELTS test. Disability Support Agreements Once a disability support requirement has been confirmed, the University will prepare to have the relevant facilities put in place. Medical evidence will be required and. Once the medical evidence has been received and the Disability Support Agreement has been set up, the adjustments can be activated. Where possible the University provides a technological solution to adjustments. Pre-Course Demands There is no pre course study. The Learning Environment There will be two semesters per academic year and 60 credits of learning will be delivered in semester 1 and 60 in semester 2. The dissertation (60 credits) will be written up and supervised over the over the summer period. Students starting in September will do their dissertation over the summer and submit it in September of that year. Students starting in January will do their dissertation over the summer and submit it in January of the following year. Consistent with the University s modular structure, each semester comprises 12 teaching weeks A student who pursues one of the MSc Business Programmes on FT mode will receive 180 credits over a 1 year period at level 7. For any one 30 credit module there is 60 contact hours in total: 5 hours per teaching week 1 X 1 hour large workshops and 2 X 2 hour small workshop sessions. For any one 15 credit module there is 36 contact hours in total: 3 hours per teaching week 1 X 1 hour large workshops and 1 X 2 hour small workshop sessions. The contact hours reflect the expectation of PG students re autonomous learning. There are 240 hours of self-study for each 30 credit module 20 hours per week and approximately 10 hours per week for 15 credit modules. The Dissertation module will attract 6 hours small groups for its taught element research and professional skills. The dissertation element will attract 6 hours of direct 1-2-1 supervision. 3
Face-to-face learning is supported by online resources which will be used during sessions, and for independent learning on-line via the virtual learning system (on a University pc or at home using internet). We also use case studies, simulations, videos, reading materials, online testing, and feedback. Students will receive their core textbooks free of charge and in a digital format. In addition, all De Broc programmes are supported by our Virtual Learning Environment: Elite. This is the first point of call for academic information, such as details of assessments, lecture sequences and online copies of all study materials. This course is delivered in an interactive way Students are expected to participate fully in all large group, workshop and related activities and carry out independent learning and preparation as directed. Students also have access to our online library facilities and learning resources from the Chartered Management Institution, the Chartered Institute of Marketing and the Financial Times. These resources provide a range of professional and business based materials that represent the latest market trends, with sector-based articles and analysis reports. The programme involves a considerable amount of group work and group assessment. Assessment is mainly through coursework and in class tests. There is at least one closed book examination assessment for each course. Attendance requirements This degree can be used as a platform into a wide range of business management careers, including management consultant, business analyst or operations manager and positions within a wider business context. It is our experience that there is a clear correlation between attendance and pass rates. We may be asked by a prospective employer to give details of your punctuality, attendance and/or participation and progress. You should also be aware that unsatisfactory attendance at workshop sessions may make you subject to action under the University s Student Discipline Regulations. If you miss an assessment or examination due to illness or other valid cause, you must submit a written Concession Application under Regulation 15 of the Assessment Regulations within 7 days of the missed assessment or examination (See Student Handbook Part B - Assessment Information - Assessment Information). Each year comprises of two (2) semesters. Each semester is made up of 12 teaching weeks. The timetable will be adjusted appropriately to accommodate the Christmas and New Year period. There is a minimum of one week for revision at the end of each semester. Significant pieces of coursework are normally handed in at the relevant examination period. Small pieces of coursework and in class tests are presented and/or handed in during the teaching weeks. Full details about assessment will be provide in your programme handbook. 4
The pattern of study will be as follows: Modules are 30 or 15 credits apart from the Dissertation Module (which includes research methods and Professional Development) which is 60 credits. Attendance at all large group sessions and workshops is compulsory. Students will be expected to learn (attendance at sessions and independent learning) for 20 hours per week per module correct and put in credit per unit and give examples of totals Assessment Requirements Assessment is designed to meet the programme and module learning outcomes both academic and skills. All assessment must be submitted according to the published deadline, work needs to be typed, and some modules may require you to record/video or to submit your work in electronic/digital format. If appropriate medical evidence is accepted, we may be able to re-schedule assessments to avoid more than one on any one day. We do not normally provide additional time for coursework, as the time provided already incorporates considerable flexibility, but subject to medical evidence this may be reviewed. The University operates a fit to sit policy, which means that students who attend an assessment are deeming themselves to be fit to sit that assessment. It is therefore not possible to submit a concession application for impaired performance for an assessment that has been sat, unless there was a procedural defect in the conduct of the assessment. Adjustments Prior to the start of the course, please refer to the Disability Support Service team (disabilitysupport@debroc.ac.uk) who will be able to advise on the adjustments which may be made to assessments. tthe Disability Support Service will put the required support adjustments in place. If necessary the University will arrange for you to have a SpLD assessment with the Educational Guidance Service. There is a 75 student contribution fee. Contact the Disability Support Service for more information. Please note if you fail to attend your booked appointment with the Educational Guidance Service without giving at least 48 hours notice, the University is charged a cancellation fee, therefore we will not be able to fund any future SpLD assessment for you. The University can discuss requirements for specialist disability-related one-to-one learning support with students to ascertain where best such support, if this is recommended. 5
Time limits Irrespective of any special arrangements made, in order successfully to complete the MSc Degree, all students are required under the regulations to pass all elements of the course within 3 years of commencing the course. Summary of Assessment Demands Assessment of each module will take place during and at the end of the semester to allow students and lecturers to monitor progress. The programme includes a variety of types of assessment throughout the course will involve you completing and/or participating in the following: Assessment Methods The programmes assessment is primarily by coursework, group and individual, which will consist of: Reflective learning journals Reports, presentations, posters, role playing and debates using case studies Simulations Portfolios In class tests Live consultancy Research and literature reviews Critical reflective writing on their learning, development and skills Solving complex problems within a team setting Presentations, debates and role play Preparation for the dissertation by reflecting on professional development Peer review and feedback As appropriate there will be examinations for some subject areas, particularly where this is necessary for professional body accreditation. STUDENT ENGAGEMENT Getting involved We understand that the quality and standards of your course are very important to you, which is why the University is committed to student engagement. Student Engagement is about you getting involved, sharing your views and helping to shape your educational experience. More details can be found in the University s Student Engagement Policy located the Student Policy Portal of the University s website: http://www.law.ac.uk/about/policies/ Student Staff Liaison Committee You may have the opportunity to attend a Student Staff Liaison Committee (SSLC). The 6
SSLC comprises of Student Representatives and staff representatives including the Course Leader. The purpose of these meetings is to give you an opportunity to raise areas of concern, to make comments on the course and on student support and to make suggestions about any aspect of the course. The minutes of the meetings are made available to all students and staff. The minutes include any action to be taken and who is responsible. The Course Leader is responsible for ensuring matters are actioned. Each class has the opportunity to elect a maximum of two Student Representatives to serve on the SSLC. Students Association The University is looking to establish a Students Association to make sure that your voice is heard. Look out for further information and exciting opportunities for you to get involved Student Symbol To help show where student feedback has made a difference to the University, we have created a student feedback symbol. You will see the symbol on documents that have been student improved through student contributions to surveys, focus groups, SSLC meetings etc. 7