Course Catalogue

The aims of the MSc programme are to equip students with the following:

1. a broad foundation in the main business and management disciplines that is both strategic and integrated in nature;
2. knowledge and understanding of the key business concepts and models underpinning current organisational structures, management decision making and the drivers of innovation in an international context;
3. the ability to analyse business and management situations from both operational and strategic perspectives;
4. the skills to apply theoretical knowledge to work-based problems and issues, particularly those from a team-oriented perspective;
5. the application of cross functional abilities and transferable skills within the business activities of a range of national and international business organisations;
6. skills in understanding and exploiting the links between academic research typologies and their relevance in creating business intelligence;
7. knowledge and skills appropriate for the production of an independent research project;
8. applied communication skills at a level which enables them to perform effectively academically and personally;

9 a basis for continual personal development and learning throughout their future careers.

Teaching and learning strategies are based on a combination of structured tuition and student-centred learning. Methods which will be adopted include lecture, tutorial, practical, workshops, assignments, case study, video, group work discussion, 'real world' business case studies and active business simulations. This approach is intended to facilitate learners taking ownership and responsibility for their own learning. All will be 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, will be provided throughout the programme and include books, journal articles, videos and case studies, as well as tutor notes. All modules will be supported via Canvas (the virtual learning environment). A variety of assessment methods will be deployed throughout the programme. These methods will include problem-solving exercises, practice based 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.

Intellectual skills will be developed through case study or 'real world' project work, tutorial work, coursework assignments and directed reading, enabling linking of theory to practical examples. The assessment methodology, as defined above, will provide opportunities for the assessment of intellectual skills. The blending of group and individual assessment formats will help to develop collaborative awareness and team perspectives in addition to individual reflection. Learners will produce coursework that predominantly relates to case study scenarios, thereby linking theory to practice. Where learners have employment which is within the supply chain and logistics sector, they will have the opportunity to use their workplace as a source of learning and case study. Throughout learners will critically reflect on their learning process. All practical skills will be assessed through a variety of assessment methods including simulations, class tests, coursework, projects and formal reports, which require the demonstration of such skills.

The analytical nature of the programme, particularly at the capstone project stage, will require students to investigate organisational and sectoral issues and seek workable recommendations through a theoretical framework. The learners will investigate a business or management problem/issue that requires independent research and the synthesis of acquired knowledge and data to address the problem. Transferable skills will be generally incorporated within modules and related to relevant assessments as appropriate. Learners will be provided with support during induction and throughout the programme in the development of key skills which will culminate in the production of a Personal Development Portfolio and the capstone project. The nature of sessions are 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. 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 production of a Personal Development Portfolio and the capstone project including reflections on own learning. The transferable skills assessment is embedded into the modules. Where ICT packages are used, these will form part of the assessment submission.

Where possible, the programme will include work based learning such as: live projects with employers and mini-internships. If the learner is employed, work based learning will allow them to use their workplace as a case study and/or project.

Where this is not possible, the programme will involve work related learning, such as the use of 'live' case studies, visiting practitioners and business simulation exercises ensures that the programme focuses strongly on the world of work.