Programme Specification Title: International Business Final Award: Master of Science (MSc) With Exit Awards at: Postgraduate Certificate (PG Cert) Postgraduate Diploma (PG Dip) Master of Science (MSc) To be delivered from: 1 Sep 2014 Level Date Masters or Postgraduate Certificate (PG Cert) Masters or Postgraduate Diploma (PG Dip) Masters or Master of Science (MSc) Page 1/26
Table Of Contents 1. Introduction... 3 2. Basic Programme Data... 4 3. Programme Description... 5 3.1 Overview... 5 3.2 Aims and Objectives... 6 3.3 Variations to Standard Regulations and Guidance... 7 4. Programme Outcomes... 8 4.1 Knowledge and Understanding... 8 4.2 Subject Specific Intellectual Skills... 8 4.3 Subject Specific Practical Skills... 8 4.4 Transferable Skills and Attributes... 9 5. Learning, Teaching and Assessment Strategies... 10 5.1. Learning and Teaching Strategy... 10 5.2. Assessment Strategy... 10 6. Programme Structure... 12 Appendix I - Curriculum Map... 13 Appendix II - Assessment Map... 15 Appendix III - Benchmark Analysis... 20 Appendix IV - Benchmark Statements(s)... 24 Page 2/26
1. Introduction This document describes one of the University of Lincoln's programmes using the protocols required by the UK National Qualifications Framework as defined in the publication QAA guidelines for preparing programme specifications. This programme operates under the policy and regulatory frameworks of the University of Lincoln. Page 3/26
2. Basic Programme Data Final Award: Programme Title: Exit Awards and Titles Master of Science (MSc) International Business Postgraduate Certificate (PG Cert) Postgraduate Diploma (PG Dip) Master of Science (MSc) Subject(s) Business Mode(s) of delivery Full Time Part Time Is there a Placement or Exchange? UCAS code Awarding Body Campus(es) School(s) Programme Leader Relevant Subject Benchmark Statements Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body Accreditation No University of Lincoln Lincoln Campus Programme Start Date Department of Strategy and Enterprise Martin Knight (MartinK) Page 4/26
3. Programme Description 3.1 Overview PROGRAMME STRUCTURE: MSc International Business requires students to study six core modules which are designed to develop the student's understanding and application of international business, the development of communication skills as well as a range of essential graduate attributes. Students then select two optional modules based on their academic interests and career aspirations. Students conclude with a dissertation. The taught element comprises: Understanding International Business Finance and Accounting People and Global Organisations International Marketing and Customers Research Methods and Design Strategy Making Two Options Optional modules will run as far as at least 10 students select them. Timetabling arrangements may limit the availability of modules to some students. As the options reflect staff's research interests, they may alter over time due to staff availability. Students who enrol on a February start for this programme will be offered the core modules, but electives will be restricted. Availability of electives will be subject to student numbers, timetabling and staffing constraints. These students will choose two from: Digital Marketing Global Supply Strategies Group Consultancy Project International Entrepreneurship All students are required to undertake a final dissertation worth 60 Credits. Our approach to dissertation is to facilitate innovative approaches and diverse pathways to the final assessed piece of work; in effect the dissertation is an extended research project. For details of each module contributing to the programme, please consult the module specification document. OVERVIEW: The MSc International Business is a distinctive and focused Programme which addresses a gap within the College portfolio and is attractive to Home, European and International students. The programme will both inform and strengthen the research profile of the Business School by stimulating projects that support the research interests of the Academic Team and by providing an appropriate route to more advanced study for promising candidates. The Programme will contribute to and build upon the courses and expertise already available in the Lincoln Business School and the College of Social Sciences. Page 5/26
Internationally, many Universities offer comparable awards, and there is a wealth of research and teaching experience across the sector. The growth of International Business programmes, coupled with the complementary themes of globalisation and regional political integration, is leading to growing interest in the subject area of International Business across industries, governments and the wider context of communities and society. The MSc International Business programme is Lincoln Business School's response to the growing demand from prospective students for postgraduate International Business courses which equip students with the necessary graduate qualities and the subject knowledge to enable them to compete effectively in the domestic and international labour markets. The programme offers a high level of support for students, many of whom will be studying internationally. There are integrated approaches to support English language, orientation to studying in the UK and to Postgraduate study skills, the development of enterprising and employable career capabilities, and pastoral support. Close engagement with the International Office, English Language Centre, Student Services, Careers, Library and other central services is an essential feature of this support. 3.2 Aims and Objectives The MSc International Business aims to provide: A realistic progression for those students who have studied business at the undergraduate level, which builds upon knowledge gained as an undergraduate, whilst at the same time utilising knowledge and skills acquired during relevant employment. It also allows for those candidates from a non-business background to acquire management skills across a range of pathways. An advanced general management education at an international level with a choice of specialism, including a major opportunity to conduct in-depth research on a business-related topic at the dissertation level. To provide Graduates with an opportunity to apply new knowledge within the base of their professional experience. They will be able to reflect on and learn from that prior experience and thus be able to integrate new knowledge with past experience and apply it to new situations. The MSc International Business programme is distinctive by providing: An enhanced emphasis on employability and enterprise; this will feature throughout the taught modules emphasising the link between business ideas and practice. Many of the taught modules lend themselves to an external focus and assignments will emphasise this approach. One outcome of this will be to develop closer relations and practical forms of engagement by students with both local and international employers which is part of our business mission. This strategy will enhance the contribution of the College's Employer Engagement Manager in supporting the MSc International Business. The range of electives which will guide the choice of each student's dissertation topic or consultancy project and will enhance the value and attractiveness of the MSc International Business for students Page 6/26
in a period of increasing competition in the graduate employment market. 3.3 Variations to Standard Regulations and Guidance None Page 7/26
4. Programme Outcomes Programme-level learning outcomes are identified below. Refer to Appendix I Curriculum Map for details of how outcomes are deployed across the programme. 4.1 Knowledge and Understanding On successful completion of this programme a student will have knowledge and understanding of: 1 Diverse organisations, their impact on the society and the external environment, and how they are strategically managed in the context of change 2 Appraisal and interpretation of financial and accounting data for managerial purposes. 3 Theoretical frameworks for the analysis and selection of key international business themes for application to work based learning experiences across borders 4 Major problem and opportunity areas within the international business arena 5 Relevant international and cross-border literature and theory pertinent to the principals of international business 4.2 Subject Specific Intellectual Skills On successful completion of this programme a student will be able to: 6 Analyse and appraise organisational effectiveness and need for change in relation to the ethical and responsible management of human, financial, and other resources 7 Assess and solve complex problems and make decisions based on identifying and evaluating appropriate alternatives. 8 Collect data to consider the future organisations and their external context in order to develop strategic options for organisations. 9 Conduct analysis of international business and organisational situations at strategic level and apply appropriate analytical tools in organisational diagnosis, intervention and change management 10 Develop, analyse, approach and apply appropriate evidence-gathering techniques in the context of named areas of international operations. 4.3 Subject Specific Practical Skills On successful completion of this programme a student will be able to: 11 Acquire, evaluate and synthesise a range of numeric and other forms of information for diverse organisational purposes including new situations 12 Design and execute an appropriate strategy to manage and lead the international focused organisation 13 Demonstrate the ability to act strategically and to manage ambiguity and uncertainty Page 8/26
associated with international operations 14 Demonstrate the ability to culturally manage self and others effectively, through leadership and interpersonal skills so as to maximise the strengths of the internationally orientated business 15 Investigate and report on professional practice in directed areas of international business. 4.4 Transferable Skills and Attributes On successful completion of this programme a student will be able to: 16 Possess numeracy and quantitative skills that can be applied to a variety of tasks to analyse organisations and their environment in a systematic and original way 17 Using research techniques, acquire and critically appraise data and information from a range of sources for analysing complex business and management topics 18 Communicate effectively -orally and in writing - in different situations and in relation to various organisational constituents. 19 Actively synthesis the learning acquired from a review of theory with that acquired through the investigation of practice. 20 Make effective decisions through undertaking critical analysis For details of each module contributing to the programme, please consult the module specification document. Page 9/26
5. Learning, Teaching and Assessment Strategies 5.1. Learning and Teaching Strategy The programme aims to provide a diverse range of learning and assessment situations that develop appropriate knowledge, intellectual and practical skills, and promote opportunities for all to acquire and demonstrate transferable, interpersonal and problem-solving skills, within the broad context of international business and cross-cultural management, and in a multi-cultural context. These skills equip students for their future careers, enabling them to become life-long learners and to adapt to future changing career patterns. In particular for postgraduate students, learning and assessment methods and expectations are adjusted to more advanced styles of study. We expect postgraduate students to be confident independent learners, and aim to build on their existing capabilities. In addition, we are committed to furthering the Business School s Responsible Futures agenda and in accordance with it, offer extensive opportunities for engagement with employers as part of the course. We expect postgraduate students to be confident independent learners, and aim to build on their existing capabilities. Teaching staff aspire to motivate students, to encourage the sharing of skills and insights, and to develop independence in study. Students themselves become part of the teaching process through group activities, which enhance their depth of learning and develop their research competence. Learning situations are varied within and across programmes, reflecting the diversity of learning resources and the integration of learning and teaching processes. Staff are developing appropriate and supportive learning materials that are suitable for students with a variety of backgrounds. Lectures are used primarily in discipline-bound areas, and where the expertise of multiple staff members can contribute to a single module. If practicable, lecture materials can be enhanced by audiovisual material in the early stages of the course, to provide extra aid to overseas students facing an unfamiliar learning environment. Seminars offer opportunities for student-centred learning and a range of face-to-face, tutor-supported formats. These may be delivered by chat rooms, internet or videoconferencing, physical face-to-face classes or other suitable synchronous or asynchronous multimedia methods. Potential study visits offer opportunities for field research or practice based observation. Visiting speakers provide specialist expertise and current application knowledge in a range of modules and cross-module areas. Blackboard includes provision of course materials, notices, study guides, email centre and conferencing, off-campus learning and supportive learning packages. The programme, in keeping with other postgraduate programmes, will expect students to read extensively and be aware of current theoretical debates within the literature, including relevant journals, and reading lists will also include reference to current debates and issues. Classes will be interwoven with discussions and debating opportunities regarding the rapidly and often spontaneous changes in international business. Each module typically consists of two or three weekly teaching hours over a teaching term of 12 weeks. The class hours consist of a combination of lectures, seminars, tutorials, and study visits depending on the nature of the module. 5.2. Assessment Strategy In the MSc International Business, assessment is an integral part of the learning process, and it is considered to be instrumental in the achievement of successful learning in all programmes. The policy is to use and encourage a relevant and diverse range of assessment methodologies that: Page 10/26
reflect and assess learning outcomes are relevant to the accommodation of the potentially diverse range of students gaining access to postgraduate programmes of the University foster critical and reflective thinking, effective communication and independence in learning are appropriate to the level of study provide progression between levels to maintain academic quality and student development provide compatibility and balance between modules through a level/year develop a range of students skills and recognise students individual competencies. The strategy for assessment for the MSc International Business includes the use of formative assessments where possible, to provide a key element of the learning experience. It also is designed to stagger the submission dates to provide a balanced study workload throughout the course of study. Thirdly, the appropriate overall assessment load per student per module has been centrally agreed, and this is reflected in the individual module specifications. Turnitin is used as the standard means of submission for assessed work and for student feedback. Page 11/26
6. Programme Structure The total number of credit points required for the achievement of Postgraduate Certificate (PG Cert) is 60. The total number of credit points required for the achievement of Postgraduate Diploma (PG Dip) is 120. The total number of credit points required for the achievement of Master of Science (MSc) is 180. Masters Title Credit Rating Core / Optional Understanding International Business 15 Core International Entrepreneurship 15 Optional Finance and accounting 15 Core Community Organisation, Sustainability and Development 15 Optional People and Global Organisations 15 Core International Marketing and Customers 15 Core Strategy Making 15 Core Sustainability Leadership 15 Optional Gender, Power and Business 15 Optional The Business of Aviation Management 15 Optional Social Entrepreneurship 15 Optional Comparative Human Resource Management 15 Optional Disaster Management 15 Optional Global Supply Strategies 15 Optional Digital Marketing 15 Optional Dissertation 60 Core Research Methods and Design 15 Core Destination Management and Marketing 15 Optional Marketing of Luxury 15 Optional The Multinational Enterprise in Context 15 Optional Group Consultancy Project 15 Optional Page 12/26
Appendix I - Curriculum Map This table indicates which modules assume responsibility for delivering and ordering particular programme learning outcomes. Key: Delivered and Assessed Delivered Assessed Masters Community Organisation, Sustainability and Development Comparative Human Resource Management Destination Management and Marketing Digital Marketing Disaster Management Dissertation Finance and accounting Gender, Power and Business Global Supply Strategies Group Consultancy Project International Entrepreneurship International Marketing and Customers Marketing of Luxury People and Global Organisations Research Methods and Design Social Entrepreneurship Strategy Making Sustainability Leadership The Business of Aviation Management PO1 PO2 PO3 PO4 PO5 PO6 PO7 PO8 PO9 PO10 PO11 PO12 Page 13/26
The Multinational Enterprise in Context Understanding International Business Community Organisation, Sustainability and Development Comparative Human Resource Management Destination Management and Marketing Digital Marketing Disaster Management Dissertation Finance and accounting Gender, Power and Business Global Supply Strategies Group Consultancy Project International Entrepreneurship International Marketing and Customers Marketing of Luxury People and Global Organisations Research Methods and Design Social Entrepreneurship Strategy Making Sustainability Leadership The Business of Aviation Management The Multinational Enterprise in Context Understanding International Business PO13 PO14 PO15 PO16 PO17 PO18 PO19 PO20 Page 14/26
Appendix II - Assessment Map This table indicates the spread of assessment activity across the programme. Percentages indicate assessment weighting. Masters 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 Community Organisation, Sustainability and Development Comparative Human Resource Management Destination Management and Marketing Digital Marketing 40 Disaster Management 40 20 40 Dissertation Finance and accounting 30 Gender, Power and Business Global Supply Strategies Group Consultancy Project International Entrepreneurship International Marketing and Customers 50 Marketing of Luxury People and Global Organisations 50 50 Research Methods and Design Social Entrepreneurship Strategy Making 30 Sustainability Leadership 40 The Business of Aviation Management The Multinational Enterprise in Context Page 15/26
Understanding International Business 30 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 100 Community Organisation, Sustainability and Development Comparative Human Resource Management Destination Management and Marketing Digital Marketing 40 Disaster Management Dissertation Finance and accounting 70 Gender, Power and Business Global Supply Strategies Group Consultancy Project 100 International Entrepreneurship International Marketing and Customers Marketing of Luxury People and Global Organisations Research Methods and Design Social Entrepreneurship Strategy Making 70 Sustainability Leadership The Business of Aviation Management The Multinational Enterprise in Context Understanding International Business 50 70 50 Page 16/26
25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 Community Organisation, Sustainability and Development Comparative Human Resource Management 50 Destination Management and Marketing 30 70 Digital Marketing Disaster Management Dissertation Finance and accounting Gender, Power and Business 30 70 Global Supply Strategies 30 70 Group Consultancy Project International Entrepreneurship 50 50 International Marketing and Customers Marketing of Luxury 40 60 People and Global Organisations Research Methods and Design 100 Social Entrepreneurship 30 70 Strategy Making Sustainability Leadership 60 The Business of Aviation Management 40 60 The Multinational Enterprise in Context 50 Understanding International Business Community Organisation, Sustainability and 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 Page 17/26
Development Comparative Human Resource Management Destination Management and Marketing Digital Marketing Disaster Management Dissertation Finance and accounting Gender, Power and Business Global Supply Strategies Group Consultancy Project International Entrepreneurship International Marketing and Customers Marketing of Luxury People and Global Organisations Research Methods and Design Social Entrepreneurship Strategy Making Sustainability Leadership The Business of Aviation Management The Multinational Enterprise in Context Understanding International Business 49 50 51 52 EP 1 (Wk 16) EP 2 (Wks 33, 34, 35) Page 18/26
Community Organisation, Sustainability and Development Comparative Human Resource Management Destination Management and Marketing Digital Marketing Disaster Management Dissertation 100 Finance and accounting Gender, Power and Business Global Supply Strategies Group Consultancy Project International Entrepreneurship International Marketing and Customers Marketing of Luxury People and Global Organisations Research Methods and Design Social Entrepreneurship Strategy Making Sustainability Leadership The Business of Aviation Management The Multinational Enterprise in Context 50 Understanding International Business Page 19/26
Appendix III - Benchmark Analysis This table maps programme learning outcomes to relevant QAA subject benchmark statements or PSRB guidelines. Knowledge and Understanding PO1 PO2 PO3 PO4 PO5 PO1 PO2 PO3 PO4 PO5 BAM01 BAM02 BAM03 BAM04 BAM05 BAM06 BAM07 BAM08 BAM09 BAM10 BAM11 BAM12 BAM13 BAM14 BAM15 BAM16 BAM17 BAM18 PO1 PO2 PO3 PO4 PO5 BAM19 BAM20 Subject Specific Intellectual Skills PO6 BAM01 BAM02 BAM03 BAM04 BAM05 BAM06 BAM07 BAM08 BAM09 Page 20/26
PO7 PO8 PO9 PO10 PO6 PO7 PO8 PO9 PO10 BAM10 BAM11 BAM12 BAM13 BAM14 BAM15 BAM16 BAM17 BAM18 PO6 PO7 PO8 PO9 PO10 BAM19 BAM20 Subject Specific Practical Skills PO11 PO12 PO13 PO14 PO15 PO11 PO12 BAM01 BAM02 BAM03 BAM04 BAM05 BAM06 BAM07 BAM08 BAM09 BAM10 BAM11 BAM12 BAM13 BAM14 BAM15 BAM16 BAM17 BAM18 Page 21/26
PO13 PO14 PO15 PO11 PO12 PO13 PO14 PO15 BAM19 BAM20 Transferable Skills and Attributes PO16 PO17 PO18 PO19 PO20 PO16 PO17 PO18 PO19 PO20 BAM01 BAM02 BAM03 BAM04 BAM05 BAM06 BAM07 BAM08 BAM09 BAM10 BAM11 BAM12 BAM13 BAM14 BAM15 BAM16 BAM17 BAM18 PO16 PO17 PO18 BAM19 BAM20 Page 22/26
PO19 PO20 Page 23/26
Appendix IV: Benchmark Benchmark Statement(s) Page 24/26
BAM01 - Students should demonstrate a systematic understanding of relevant knowledge about organisations, their external context and how they are managed BAM02 - Students should demonstrate application of relevant knowledge to a range of complex situations taking account of its relationship and interaction with other areas of the business or organisation BAM03 - Students should demonstrate a critical awareness of current issues in business and management which is informed by leading edge research and practice in the field BAM04 - Students should demonstrate an understanding of appropriate techniques sufficient to allow detailed investigation into relevant business and management issues BAM05 - Students should demonstrate creativity in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how established techniques of research and enquiry are used to develop and interpret knowledge in business and management BAM06 - Students should demonstrate ability to acquire and analyse data and information, to evaluate their relevance and validity, and to synthesise a range of information in the context of new situations BAM07 - Students should demonstrate conceptual understanding that enables the student to: A. evaluate the rigour and validity of published research and assess its relevance to new situations. B... BAM08 - Students should demonstrate ability to conduct research into business and management issues that requires familiarity with a range of business data, research sources and appropriate methodologies, and for such to inform the overall learning process BAM09 - Students should demonstrate ability to communicate effectively using a range of media (for example, orally, in writing, and through digital media) BAM10 - Students should demonstrate ability to operate effectively in a variety of team roles and take leadership roles, where appropriate BAM11 - Students should demonstrate ability to take an international perspective including understanding the impact of globalisation on businesses, societies and the environment and the ethical implications BAM12 - Masters Graduates should be able to apply consistently their knowledge and subject-specific and wider intellectual skills BAM13 - Masters Graduates should be able to deal with complex issues both systematically and creatively, make sound judgments in the absence of complete data, and communicate their conclusions clearly to a range of audiences BAM14 - Masters Graduates should be able to be proactive in recognising the need for change and have the ability to manage change BAM15 - Masters Graduates should be able to be adaptable, and show originality, insight, and critical Page 25/26
Powered by TCPDF (www.tcpdf.org) University of Lincoln Programme Specification - Master of Science (MSc) International Business and reflective abilities which can all be brought to bear upon problem situations BAM16 - Masters Graduates should be able to make decisions in complex and unpredictable situations BAM17 - Masters Graduates should be able to behave ethically and with integrity and manage with a strong sense of social responsibility BAM18 - Masters Graduates should be able to evaluate and integrate theory and practice in a wide range of situations BAM19 - Masters Graduates should be able to be self-directed and able to act autonomously in planning and implementing projects at professional levels BAM20 - Masters Graduates should be able to take responsibility for continuing to develop their own knowledge and skills Page 26/26