Master of Management in the field of Business and Executive Coaching.

Master of Management in the field of Business and Executive Coaching www.wbs.ac.za

MESSAGE FROM THE PROGRAMME DIRECTOR Are you curious about what it means and takes to be a coach in the ever changing world of work? Are you ready to take the brave first step towards a strategic career change? Are you wondering about the possibility of more meaningful work? Or perhaps you are thinking of expanding your skill set in line with your philosophy of continuous learning? If one (or more) of these questions resonate with you, I encourage you to think about doing your Master of Management in Business and Executive Coaching degree at the Wits Business School. It could be just what you are looking for to open your world and gain fulfilment, both personally and professionally. The Master of Management in the field of Business and Executive Coaching (MMBEC) is the first coaching degree in South Africa to be aligned with the Graduate School Alliance for Education in Coaching (GSAEC). This is particularly significant in view of the current international debate around professional standards in executive coaching. The WBS Master of Management in the field of Business and Executive Coaching offers the student the most recent trends and critical developments in the field of executive and organisational education for professional coaches. qualifications. The Master of Management in the field of Business and Executive Coaching programme offers students the opportunity and the environment, guided and supported by a diverse faculty and experienced business people, to study while they continue with their careers. In addition, as many past students attest, sharing experiences with your fellow students is of immense value. After successfully completing the programme, Master of Management in the field of Business and Executive Coaching graduates will have learned to ground their practice in solid theoretical, empirically-tested and applied models. They will have a thorough understanding of the disciplines underlying effective coaching; the practical skills to apply this knowledge in organisations; and have contributed to the academic body of literature in the field. This will equip them to make strategic coaching decisions that will impact their organisations and careers. In the course of the programme, students are required to build a portfolio of evidence around their skills, experiences and selfreflections. This process is guided by an integrated approach of supervision, selfdirected peer learning and the development of their unique coaching voice. This combination leads to an exciting, rigorous, and very personal learning journey. We are excited about being able to offer you this postgraduate degree through an internationally accredited business school, and we look forward to welcoming you on the programme. Beth Norden Programme Director Educators have realised that postgraduate students benefit from continuing with their careers while embarking on further 1

PROGRAMME CONTENT The Master of Management in the field of Business and Executive Coaching has been developed to meet the needs of both the coaching fraternity and high-performance organisations, while maintaining high academic standards. The programme is an integrated learning and development process, based on the following areas of focus: 1 COURSE WORK Course work consists of various modules, offering the student an excellent foundation combining scholarly literature as well as practical exposure. The classroom content is highly interactive and focuses on developing the student s self-awareness and coaching competencies. Content includes best practice, trends and case studies, as well as leading guest speakers. Students are assessed through individual and syndicate assignments, and exams. THE CORE FOCUS AREAS ARE: [1] PSYCHOLOGICAL ACUMEN UNDERPINNING COACHING: The WBS Master of Management in the field of Business and Executive Coaching supports the notion that the most successful business and executive coaches have an understanding of both psychological theory and business principles. This module therefore discusses the development of the various psychological theories that underpin the practice of coaching. The focus is on exploring human behaviour through the most relevant theories and gaining an understanding of what is in their realm of competence and training, and what is not. As a result the module differentiates coaching from psychotherapy and counselling. The module will equip the student with a comprehensive knowledge base from which to work ethically and professionally with human beings. [2] COACHING SKILLS The skills of business and executive coaching are taught in this course. Relationship skills such as developing trust, leveraging the coaching relationship through structures and support, and action and results, are all part of this module, and the importance of organisational context is emphasised. The course supports students to become professional business and executive coaches and encompasses leadership and management coaching. Students start practicing their coaching skills facilitated by a small group supervisor. 2

[3] THE COACHING PROCESS An understanding of the practical process of coaching is necessary so that students are exposed to the practice of business and executive coaching, and they are equipped to operate in a professional and effective manner. Students are taught the process of business and executive coaching occurs. They are exposed to skills, processes and interventions including: entry contracting, assessment and feedback, goal setting and planning, facilitating change and development, outcome evaluation and termination, ending and long-term planning. Students will continue to apply their coaching skills and competence, again facilitated and supported by a small group supervisor. [4] RESEARCH METHODOLOGY In this course, students are briefly exposed to the philosophy of science and an understanding of the scientific method. Qualitative and quantitative approaches to research are contrasted and the methods of research and design explored for both paradigms. Students are given guidance in writing their research proposals and reports/ dissertations. The outcome of the module will be the ability to conceptualise the research and place it in the broader context of research literature i.e. discuss how their findings add to the body of knowledge. During this process, the student will learn how to conduct and write a literature review, access databases, apply academic referencing protocols, select the appropriate research methodology for their research, analyse the data and make recommendations. All these aspects are underpinned by a knowledge of how to conduct ethical research. [5] BUSINESS ACUMEN UNDERPINNING COACHING Wits Business School prides itself on its business knowledge and places coaching firmly within a business and organisational development context. Students study topics like Marketing; Basic Principles of Finance and Accounting; Operations Design and Management; and Human Resource Management. This module will equip the student with a grounded experience of business principles. 3

[6] LEARNING THEORIES Coaching is about growth and learning and, as such, students need to understand that adult learning has specific characteristics and challenges; notably, adults learn best when actively engaged in the process. The course explores different bodies of knowledge of various learning theories. Students will gain an understanding of aspects of cognitive processes and learning styles, internal motivators, as well as expectancy theory. The latest aspects of neuroscience will be looked at, including understanding memory, awareness, mapping and predicting, dilemma models and brain synthesis. The process of action learning and self-directed learning being incorporated into the coaching relationship, will be explored in-depth. [7] LEADERSHIP IN ORGANISATIONS Increasingly, organisations are proactively developing their future leaders and coaching is viewed as a primary tool for that development. The course syllabus exposes students to various theories of leadership and the practice of leadership within organisations by examining concepts of both the 20th and 21st centuries. Students gain an understanding of how effective leadership impacts individuals and organisations. They will practice applying these leadership theories to a variety of coaching situations. [8] ORGANISATIONAL DEVELOPMENT The field of organisational development assists the coaching process, by providing insight into human systems and their functions. These include typical systems found at work, community systems and larger systems in general. As the context for Business and Executive Coaching is the organisation, a thorough knowledge and understanding of the systems theories that underpin organisations is fundamental. Students will be exposed to the following theories of organisational development: Culture, Appreciative Enquiry, Communication in Organisations, Change Management and Resilience. This will equip students with an understanding of the working environment within which their coaching clients operate. 4

[9] PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE AND ETHICS This course provides an understanding of the frameworks within the practice of Business and Executive Coaching at a professional level. The syllabus covers practice management, ethics and standards of practice that support the professional development of the coach and their practice. Practice in this instance refers to the actual exercising of the occupation of being a coach. Areas explored include understanding the value proposition offered as an executive coach. This module creates awareness of the necessity of ongoing professional development as well as the exploration of ethics and values incorporated into a code of practice. [10] DEVELOPMENT OF SELF-AWARENESS Much of the success of business and executive coaching is determined by awareness of the personal relationships that exist between the coach, the coaching client, and the custodians of the coaching process within the organisation. As such, the coach must be constantly aware of how their own value system, biases and world view can consciously or unconsciously impact on their professional working relationships. Successful coaches are typically focused on selfimprovement, personal reflection and their own development. The Master of Management in the field of Business and Executive Coaching supports this development, which often takes maturity, courage and resilience, through self-directed personal growth sessions and feedback through supervision and course work. 2 RESEARCH Wits Business School prides itself on its focus on research excellence, and expects a high standard from its students in this area. During the second year of study, students are expected to work on their research proposals and the planning process. Students submit their research reports at the end of the second year. During the research process, students receive supervision from faculty who have knowledge and experience in coaching. As this is a Master s degree, a high standard of scholarly academic research is expected in order to contribute to the growing body of knowledge in the field. 3 PERSON GROWTH THROUGH REFLECTION AND SELF-AWARENESS Much of the success of business and executive coaching is determined by awareness (and importance) of the personal relationships that exist between the coach, the coaching client, and the custodians of the coaching process within the organisation. Coaches must be constantly aware of how their own value system, biases and world view can consciously or unconsciously impact on their professional working relationships. Successful coaches are typically open to feedback and willing to focus on selfimprovement, personal reflection and their own development. The Master of Management in the field of Business and Executive Coaching degree programme supports this development, which often takes maturity, courage and resilience, through self-directed personal growth sessions and feedback through supervision and course work. 5

4 SUPERVISED PRACTICAL COACHING The Master of Management in the field of Business and Executive Coaching exposes students to both the theory and practice of coaching it is a practically based scholarly degree. At the end of the programme, students will hand in a portfolio of evidence documenting how they gained 50 hours of practical coaching experience and how this process facilitated their competence, self-reflection and confidence as a coach. Throughout the two-year programme, students will receive supervision on their practical coaching skills and their individual approach. Based on the GSAEC s academic standards, the WBS Master of Management in the field of Business and Executive Coaching makes clear distinctions between: The knowledge and theory that assist the practice of executive coaching; The core coaching competencies, and The coaching process. Based on international scholarly standards of academic research, the student is expected to: Select a coaching related topic of their choice to research, and Make a contribution to the academic literature. 6

WHY WITS BUSINESS SCHOOL? The Wits Business School is the Graduate School of Business Administration at Wits University, part of the Faculty of Commerce, Law and Management (CLM). As one of the highest rated research universities in the world, Wits has a rich history in human rights advocacy and maintains a robust presence in South Africa s civil society. The university is in the vanguard of a burgeoning and globallyengaged Africa, one that seeks solutions to challenges that impact no only Africa, but the world. QUALITY OF FACULTY WBS boasts the highest number of PhDs of any business school in South Africa. Our lecturers are known for their outstanding teaching abilities, as well as their business and research experience. Our faculty prides itself on its diversity, as well as its local and international management expertise. ALUMNI NETWORK WBS is proud of its extensive network of alumni around the world, many of our graduates hold senior management positions in organisations both locally and abroad. Our active Alumni Office arranges several networking events for alumni, with guest speakers, throughout the year. CASE CENTRE WBS was the first business school in South Africa to establish its own Case Centre, which has developed well over 200 case studies, most of which focus on South African organisations. The case method enriches the learning experience by bringing real-life scenarios into the classroom. ACCREDITATIONS WBS is accredited by the London based Association of MBAs (AMBA), is a founding member of the South African Business School Association (SABSA) and a member of the Association of African Business Schools (AABS). We are also proud to be the only African business school to be a member of the Programme in International Management (PIM), a network of 60 leading business schools around the world. PUBLIC DISCOURSE Hosting a number of topical events every year, WBS is continually building on its reputation as a centre for discourse, debate and discussion. Our public lectures attract this country s foremost thought leaders, academics, businesspeople and experts in their field, who lead panel discussions on business-relevant issues facing South Africa and the rest of the continent. LOCATION WBS is situated on its own beautiful campus in Parktown, Johannesburg with easy access to highways. 7

FACILITIES, RESOURCES AND SERVICES FOOD AND COFFEE Our on-site canteen serves a wide variety of delicious meals and snacks, including home-made cakes and cappuccinos to fuel the academic debate! Opposite the School is Mike s Kitchen restaurant, a historical landmark and popular meeting place for students and business people. ICT FACILITIES WBS has a well-equipped computer laboratory and Wi-Fi is available throughout the campus. Students have access to our e-learning platform, Sakai and there are numerous printers available for students use. LIBRARY Our comfortable and well-stocked library, known as the WBS Management Library, holds over 15 000 volumes of books and collections and subscribes to over 200 database journals. The library not only services the day-to-day research and information needs of students, but also acts as a management research archival repository for Wits University, holding a reserve of over 45 years of MBA and other management discipline research theses. APPLICATION PROCESS Only online applications are accepted. Please go to www.wbs.ac.za and click on online applications on the top right hand corner. Please ensure that all information is correct and that you have uploaded everything on the checklist (below). Deadline for applications 2018: 30 September, 2017 CHECKLIST Online application form Management Part III form (https://www.wits.ac.za/capture/form/partiii.do) Letter of motivation Copy of degree certificates Copies of your academic transcripts (for graduates of universities other than Wits) Proof of English language proficiency (for students who have not studied tertiary level English) Non-refundable application fee of R 1 500 8

REQUIREMENTS FOR ADMISSION: First Degree or Honours Equivalent An Honours degree, or postgraduate diploma, is a prerequisite for the Master of Management in the field of Business and Executive Coaching. Only in exceptional circumstances will a student with a Bachelor s degree and ten years working experience in a relevant field will be considered. Written Motivation Coaching requires both resilience and curiosity in order to develop your own selfawareness, and to facilitate the learning and development of others. These criteria will be assessed through a written motivation and a one page proposal of the research topic you plan to explore for your dissertation / research report. The University reserves the right to call applicants to a Panel Interview process. Relevant Working Experience At least five years working experience in appropriate field, namely, Human Capital, Human Resources, Management, Business Consulting, Coaching and Leadership Development, as well as a foundation course in coaching and some practical coaching experience. Assessments The University reserves the right to call prospective students in for assessments and tests to assist in the selection process. Acceptance of Offer Fee Students will be charged a fee of R1 500 upon being accepted. Your place will only be secured once this fee has been paid. This amount is non-refundable and will be offset against the registration fee payable in your first year. INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS Students whose prior degrees were not awarded by a South African university must submit a South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) evaluation certificate. (Note: this process can take up to three months to finalise.) R FEES: Fees for the The Master of Management in the field of Business and Executive Coaching for 2017 are quoted as: R144 920.00* *Please note: Fee is subject to review in January 2018. IMPORTANT CONTACT INFORMATION: Applications/Enquiries: +27 (0)861 000 927 applications2017.wbs@wits.ac.za 9

TESTIMONIALS The Master of Management in the field of Business and Executive Coaching is one of the best personal and business investments I have ever made in my life. The Master of Management in the field of Business and Executive Coaching equipped me with both the academic rigour and confidence to practice as a business and executive coach. Through this course, I met the most wonderful and helpful classmates. Our faculty members were amazingly knowledgeable and every module took me to the next level as a coach. Thanks to the Master of Management in the field of Business and Executive Coaching, I am now practicing as a qualified, skilled and well-informed business and executive coach. I also forever cherish the relationships I established with the 17 executives I interviewed for my research report because those are definitely my prospective future coaching clients. - Thsidi Anya, Master of Management in the field of Business and Executive Coaching (2016) Having spent my career in HR and leadership development I decided to focus on business and executive coaching in the next phase of my career. I knew that the Master of Management in the field of Business and Executive Coaching would provide me with a depth of understanding of coaching. What I did not appreciate was how much more I would learn about organisational and leadership development. The programme is not for the faint hearted as the academic modules are intense and include both assignments and exams. The research is also challenging. What stood out for me was the camaraderie of the students on the programme which supported us all through the tough parts of the course, and the overwhelming sense of achievement at the end. I now feel fully equipped to start on my learning journey as a coach. - Liz Warren, Master of Management in the field of Business and Executive Coaching (2016) The Master of Management in the field of Business and Executive Coaching provided me with a broad and solid theoretical foundation to support the field of coaching. The interaction with fellow cohorts was invigorating and together we were able to practice our coaching skills on one another. An unexpected positive outcome of the course was the great relationships built within the cohort. I have gained good knowledge, skills, and a network of wonderful people. - Gerlind Smith, Master of Management in the field of Business and Executive Coaching (2016) When I enrolled for the Master of Management in the field of Business and Executive Coaching I was already an internal coach within my organisation; however I needed a course that would provide a comprehensive and all-inclusive approach to coaching. The Master of Management in the field of Business and Executive Coaching provided me with more than what I expected: the structure and content of the modules were interlinked and the process of discovery was exciting in that I was be able to choose my areas of development. I can now say with confidence that I am now a Business and Executive coach! - Mxolisi Scwebu, Master of Management in the field of Business and Executive Coaching (2016) 10

Wits Business School The University of the Witwatersrand 2 St David s Place Parktown 2193 GPS coordinates: -26.1808 / 28.0369 PO Box 98 Wits 2050 Johannesburg +27 (0) 11 717 3544 www.wbs.ac.za