Course Catalogue

The aims of the MA programme are to equip students with the following: 1. knowledge about fashion and media management in an international context to enable them to perform as effective entrepreneurs and managers in dynamic enterprises 2. the ability to analyse management situations from an operational perspective with relevance to the sphere of fashion and media; 3. applied communication skills at a level which enables them to perform effectively both academically and professionally; 4. the ability to apply theoretical knowledge to work-based problems and issues; 5. transferable skills, particularly those which are team-oriented; 6. skills in planning and research; 7. knowledge and skills appropriate for the production of a research project; 8. a basis for continual personal development and learning throughout their future careers.

Teaching, learning and assessment methods used to enable outcomes to be achieved and demonstrated are: For knowledge and understanding, teaching and learning strategies are based on a combination of structured tuition and student-centred learning. Methods adopted include lecture, tutorial, practical, workshops, assignments, case study, video, group work discussion and 'real world' business case studies. This approach is intended to facilitate students taking ownership and responsibility for their own learning. All are addressed formatively through contributions to discussions and direct contact with tutors and peers in group discussion. Materials required to support and inform learners to achieve all outcomes, are provided throughout the programme and include books, journal articles and case studies, as well as tutor notes. All modules are supported via the VLE (the virtual learning environment). A variety of assessment methods are deployed throughout the programme. These methods include problem-solving exercises, practical projects, case studies, research-based projects, literature reviews, group presentations, group and individual reports, reflective reviews, class tests. Formative feedback is provided in all modules, and extensively in the workshops and webinars. In most modules more than one piece of formal assessment exists, which allows for further formative feedback to be given in the course of the module. Intellectual skills are developed through case study or 'real world' project work, tutorial work, coursework assignments and directed reading, enabling linking of theory to practical example The assessment methodology provides opportunities for the assessment of intellectual skills. The blending of group and individual assessment formats help to develop collaborative awareness and team perspectives in addition to individual reflection. For professional and practical skills development students will produce coursework that predominantly relates to real world case study scenarios, thereby linking theory to practice. Throughout students will critically reflect on their learning process. All practical skills are assessed through a variety of assessment methods including class tests, coursework, projects and formal reports, which require the demonstration of such skills. Transferable skills are generally incorporated within modules and related to relevant assessments as appropriate. Students will be provided with support during induction and throughout the programme. The nature of classroom sessions is devised to create an interactive experience, with group activities playing a large part in the delivery. Students will be expected to undertake work in their own time and, given the applied approach to assessment this will demand a degree of self management. The transferable skills assessment is embedded into the modules. Where ICT packages are used, these will form part of the assessment submission. Key skills will be developed throughout the programme commencing at the induction. Transferable skills will be important in providing students with the increased confidence and ability to address business problems. The final outcome of transferable skills will be the Research Project including reflections on own learning.

Whilst the programme does not involve direct work-related learning the use of 'live' case studies, visiting practitioners and business simulation exercises ensures that the programme focuses strongly on the world of work. The programme also makes use of locations and, where possible, scheduling, that allows the student to be present at international fashion and media centres and events.