Programme Specification Title: International Business Economics 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: 19 Sep 2016 Level Date Masters or Postgraduate Certificate (PG Cert) Masters or Postgraduate Diploma (PG Dip) Masters or Master of Science (MSc) Page 1/25
Table Of Contents 1. Introduction... 3 2. Basic Programme Data... 4 3. Programme Description... 5 3.1 Overview... 5 3.2 Aims and Objectives... 7 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... 8 5. Learning, Teaching and Assessment Strategies... 10 5.1. Learning and Teaching Strategy... 10 5.2. Assessment Strategy... 11 6. Programme Structure... 13 Appendix I - Curriculum Map... 14 Appendix II - Assessment Map... 16 Appendix III - Benchmark Analysis... 20 Appendix IV - Benchmark Statements(s)... 23 Page 2/25
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 3/25
2. Basic Programme Data Final Award: Programme Title: Exit Awards and Titles Master of Science (MSc) International Business Economics Postgraduate Certificate (PG Cert) Postgraduate Diploma (PG Dip) Master of Science (MSc) Subject(s) Economics 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 Lincoln Business School David Gray (dgray) Page 4/25
3. Programme Description 3.1 Overview Master of Science (MSc) International Business Economics is tailored for those of you that have a background in business and management studies. The aim is to provide an opportunity to expand your knowledge of the international business environment using economic analysis in a practical way. As such, the programme provides a grounding in aspects of quantitative methods, business economics, the international business environment, the multinational enterprise and the international macro financial environment. The combination of international business and applied economics on this programme provides an overview of the international world of business and a solid foundation for a career in a variety of organisations operating internationally, or as an applied/business economist. The taught element of the programme consists of seven 15 CATS compulsory modules and one optional module. In addition, the students take an independent study element, supported by a module in research design and methods. Term 1: Business Economics Finance and accounting Understanding International Business Quantitative Methods for Economics and Finance I Term 2: Quantitative Methods for Economics and Finance II The Multinational Enterprise in Context International Macroeconomics and Finance Option Plus Research Methods for Banking, Finance and Economics and an Independent Study. The following is an illustrative list of optional modules (all in Term 2): Global Supply Strategies International Entrepreneurship Social Entrepreneurship Development and Progression: Understanding International Business provides a context for identifying opportunities and analysing risks inherent in the global environment. Accounting and Finance provides you with a context for assessing the health of a business and issues concerning the financing of a corporation. Business Economics, which supports the underpinning of the Multinational Enterprise in Context, introduces you to the economist s way of analysing the firm and markets. As part of the economist s skills set, you are tutored in collecting and analysing data using models, supported by software packages. Here, Quantitative Methods For Economics and Finance I provides a basis for study of Quantitative Methods For Economics and Finance II and, along with Business Economics, a grounding for the study of International Economics and Finance. You are prepared for your Independent Study at the Master s level by a module in research methods. Guidance on Completion Order and Exit Awards: Page 5/25
The programme may be studied either on a part-time or a full time basis. It is expected that part-time students take two modules per teaching term; however, some modules should be studied before others. Understanding International Business, Business Economics, Quantitative Methods For Economics and Finance I, and Finance and Accounting are normally taken first. The mix of modules will be agreed upon with the programme leader and will depend on the background of the student. If you complete all the taught modules satisfactorily (excluding Research Methods), you qualify for a Diploma in International Business Economics. To qualify for a Certificate in International Business Economics, you should have completed satisfactorily sixty credits involving a Quantitative Methods, an Economics (Business Economics, International Economics and Finance) and an International Business (Multinational Enterprise in Context, Understanding International Business) module. How Do the Modules Combine the Disciplines? Economics is delivered in Quantitative Methods For Economics and Finance I & II, Business Economics, International Economics and Finance and the Multinational Enterprise in Context. International Business and the Multinational Enterprise in Context provide the specialist interest context in international business. A strong theme within international business is finance. Finance and Accounting and International Economics and Finance consider issues in this field. Quantitative Methods are key skills common to social sciences in general, including Business, Finance and Economics. Local Context: Lincoln International Business School portfolio of Master s programmes includes International Business Economics, International Business, and Finance. International Business Economics also sits within the collection of economics programmes and, as such, fits with the Lincoln Economics Accounting and Finance (LEAF) research group. Research themes of economics and international finance, and student research projects and independent studies can be interlaced. Indeed, this could provide a route to more advanced study at doctoral level for promising candidates. The University has seen a growth in the number of students from overseas. We welcome the richness that global experiences can bring to the classroom. In addition, global culture is celebrated through student groups, events by the Students Union and the hosting of business forums within the School to promote an at home feel for international students. The English Language Centre provides support for those studying in their second language. Pre-sessional English Language courses are offered to bring entrants to a satisfactory level. Specific programmes of support recently offered include two hours of timetabled English support per week, or drop-in sessions by the English Language Centre. Support activities evolve and will vary from year to year. The University s support for International Students is outlined at: http://www.lincoln.ac.uk/home/international/internationalteam/ Formal reporting mechanisms, either directly or through a representative, allow your voice to be heard. Subject Committees, which meet at least twice a year, provide a key forum for the consideration of the conduct of programmes and where major programme issues are reviewed. Your module tutor and your programme leader can deal with minor academic issues. Student Support and personal academic tutors may help with non-academic ones. The degree is intended to be a conversion programme for students progressing from first degrees in Business and Management to a programme that is more focussed on economics. As prospective students, you will normally have been awarded a good honours degree (2.2) or equivalent in social sciences. The programme requires numeracy levels of least a C in A levels (or equivalent) Page 6/25
qualification or evidence of numerical competency in the undergraduate degree/work experience. 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 3.2 Aims and Objectives The aim of the programme is to offer those that have a background in business and management studies an opportunity to expand their knowledge of the international business environment with an economics focus. The objectives of the programme: - provide training in the principles of economics and their application - stimulate you intellectually through the study of economics and to lead you to appreciate its application to a range of problems and its relevance in a variety of international contexts - provide a knowledge of the workings of business enterprises, their international environment and the functions of markets - develop in you the ability to utilise the knowledge and skills to the solution of theoretical and applied problems in the international business environment - provide you with analytical skills and a capability to apply simplifying frameworks for studying the international business environment. The QAA Subject Benchmark statement for Master's programmes in Business and Management (2015) has been used as a reference point in developing the programme. 3.3 Variations to Standard Regulations and Guidance None Page 7/25
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 Economic concepts, principles and tools together with the ability to evaluate how they might be deployed in international settings 2 Economic theories and how they apply at domestic and international levels 3 Relevant quantitative methods and applications to an advanced level 4 The nature, sources, uses and limitations of economic and business data in the context of international business 4.2 Subject Specific Intellectual Skills On successful completion of this programme a student will be able to: 5 Interpret economic ideas critically and analyse verbally, graphically, and quantitatively on Master's level 6 Reflect critically upon international economic policy announcements, relating them to competing theoretical perspectives that might underpin such recommendations 7 Apply relevant advanced quantitative methods and computing techniques to economic, financial and business data 8 Apply economic reasoning critically to theoretical and applied business topics in the international arena 4.3 Subject Specific Practical Skills On successful completion of this programme a student will be able to: 9 Employ appropriate computer software packages to present, analyse and interpret data on Master's level 10 Propose a research question, and design and evaluate critically a research procedure suited for its testing on Master's level 11 Convey results of empirical and theoretical work to a variety of audiences through various media 4.4 Transferable Skills and Attributes On successful completion of this programme a student will be able to: Page 8/25
12 Abstract and simplify while retaining relevance applicable in a variety of contexts aiding critical problem-solving and decision-making evaluation 13 Evaluate problems critically, distilling the most important parameters to utilise 14 Source, organise, interpret and present data effectively For details of each module contributing to the programme, please consult the module specification document. Page 9/25
5. Learning, Teaching and Assessment Strategies 5.1. Learning and Teaching Strategy Learning and teaching methods used will vary according to the subject matter and level of the module. One would expect a Master s student to be able to deal with a faster pace of progress and greater sophistication of the content than a level 1 undergraduate. Delivery modes include the following: The traditional lecture is where the lecturer frames a concept, idea or theory, around which you read. Lectures and independent study allow you to gain a systematic understanding of international business economics and how these concepts or frames may be used to analyse a variety of contemporary economics, social, financial and business management problems. Seminars are where key issues can be explored and discussed in more depth. You are expected to play a full part, and occasionally, to lead these discussions. This would include the interrogation of a journal article. Some seminars may consist largely of student presentations and others are based on the application of ideas to case studies drawn from the media and the findings of economic, financial or business management research. Seminars provide opportunities for you to ask questions about, and challenge received wisdom. It is the forum for honing skills and ideas. You should be building your confidence in presenting your own ideas to members of staff and your peers using an appropriate medium of communication. They will critique your work, and you theirs. Practical, computer-based lab-classes are where you acquire the hands-on skills associated with describing, analysing and interpreting economic, financial and business data. Independent study based on directed reading from textbooks, academic journals, official government publications and the media. Undertaking a research project with the support of an active researcher allows you to formulate relevant research questions and devise feasible and methodologically robust strategies for addressing them. Apart from the above, Lincoln International Business School subscribes to the Principles of Responsible Management Education (PRME) which guide our educational endeavour to address global challenges and create a better future for society. Through educational experiences at Lincoln, our students develop as people who understand their responsibilities as global citizens, as entrepreneurs, as managers of people, money and resources, as stewards of the economy and the environment and as self-reflective leaders setting future agendas for organisations. Student as Producer: The University of Lincoln regards students as collaborators in the production of knowledge. This teaching and learning philosophy is referred to as the Student as Producer principle. Accordingly, students learn through their own research as well as through traditional models of teaching. In the Business School, the programmes support this principle through the provision of technologies and learning spaces which may include DATASTREAM, EVIEWS, FT.COM, and STATA. Students also research organisational settings, individual behaviour, and the developments of the markets and the business environment to learn about and produce analysis in the business and management area. According to the Student as Producer principle, learning is more effective when it takes place in a collaborative way. In Accounting, Finance or Economics, students engage in class discussion and exercises to learn together. There may also be more formal group work that leads to an assessment. The students also embark on an independent study project through which they investigate a topic related to accounting, finance or economics by collecting and interrogating primary or secondary Page 10/25
data. Careers Support: The Business School organises a series of career events on an annual basis to inspire and support students in securing a job and thinking about their career development in the longer term. The events provide examples of career roles and journeys and create opportunities to network with employers. More information about the University s career services can be found from the following website: http://uolcareers.co.uk. 5.2. Assessment Strategy There is a variety of assessment methods used. Summative Assessment: The function of the assessments is to test your attainment of the learning outcomes of the International Business Economics programmes. For example: Unseen closed and open book examinations in different formats will test your knowledge of finance, business and economic principles and your ability to apply that knowledge to the formation of policy recommendations. Examinations may consist of essay, short answer and/or multiple choice questions or diagrams. Essays, including those based on case study material, explore subject knowledge. They are a key format for the demonstration of your capability to carry out basic bibliographic research and to effectively communicate it in writing. It is planned that formal assessment submissions will be made via Turnitin, a software through which lecturers can provide written feedback and check the originality of submitted work. Exercises test your ability to frame and solve analytical and numerical questions. They should demonstrate you competence and familiarity with a range of mathematical techniques that form the everyday tool-kit of the modern economist. In-class tests assess your subject knowledge and their ability to apply it to problems in a structured and focused way. The Dissertation or Independent Study tests your ability to undertake independent study, framing a problem, applying a clear economic methodology through to conclusion, and presenting the results in a coherent, logical manner. Formative Assessment: Formative assessment will occur throughout the programme. This offers your tutor a further, more immediate means of gauging engagement with the process but also provides you with feedback on both the quality of your academic work and the development of your subject knowledge and understanding. Examples of formative activities include: On-line and self-assessment tests designed to assess a your understanding and knowledge Exercises followed by discussion in seminars Seminar discussions around planned and prepared topics Group work activities that encourage peer review within seminars Feedback, including guidance on how you can improve the quality of your work, is provided on Page 11/25
coursework Page 12/25
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. Level 4 Title Credit Rating Core / Optional Independent Study for Banking Finance and Economics 45 Core Research Methods for Banking, Finance and Economics 15 Core Masters Title Credit Rating Core / Optional Quantitative Methods for Economics and Finance I 15 Core Quantitative Methods for Economics and Finance II 15 Core Finance and accounting 15 Core Understanding International Business 15 Core Business Economics 15 Core International Macroeconomics and Finance 15 Core The Multinational Enterprise in Context 15 Core Community Organisation, Sustainability and Development 15 Optional Global Supply Strategies 15 Optional International Entrepreneurship 15 Optional Page 13/25
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 Level 4 Independent Study for Banking Finance and Economics Research Methods for Banking, Finance and Economics PO1 PO2 PO3 PO4 PO5 PO6 PO7 PO8 PO9 PO10 PO11 PO12 Independent Study for Banking Finance and Economics Research Methods for Banking, Finance and Economics PO13 PO14 Masters Business Economics Community Organisation, Sustainability and Development Finance and accounting Global Supply Strategies International Entrepreneurship International Macroeconomics and Finance Quantitative Methods for Economics and Finance I PO1 PO2 PO3 PO4 PO5 PO6 PO7 PO8 PO9 PO10 PO11 PO12 Page 14/25
Quantitative Methods for Economics and Finance II The Multinational Enterprise in Context Understanding International Business Business Economics Community Organisation, Sustainability and Development Finance and accounting Global Supply Strategies International Entrepreneurship International Macroeconomics and Finance Quantitative Methods for Economics and Finance I Quantitative Methods for Economics and Finance II The Multinational Enterprise in Context Understanding International Business PO13 PO14 Page 15/25
Appendix II - Assessment Map This table indicates the spread of assessment activity across the programme. Percentages indicate assessment weighting. Level 4 Independent Study for Banking Finance and Economics Research Methods for Banking, Finance and Economics Independent Study for Banking Finance and Economics Research Methods for Banking, Finance and Economics Independent Study for Banking Finance and Economics Research Methods for Banking, Finance and Economics Independent Study for Banking Finance and Economics Research Methods for Banking, Finance and Economics 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 100 49 50 51 52 EP 1 (Wk EP 2 (Wks Page 16/25
Independent Study for Banking Finance and Economics 100 Research Methods for Banking, Finance and Economics 16) 33, 34, 35) Masters 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 Business Economics 50 50 Community Organisation, Sustainability and Development Finance and accounting 30 Global Supply Strategies International Entrepreneurship International Macroeconomics and Finance Quantitative Methods for Economics and Finance I Quantitative Methods for Economics and Finance II The Multinational Enterprise in Context Understanding International Business 30 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 Business Economics Community Organisation, Sustainability and 100 Development Finance and accounting 70 Page 17/25
Global Supply Strategies International Entrepreneurship International Macroeconomics and Finance Quantitative Methods for Economics and Finance I Quantitative Methods for Economics and Finance II The Multinational Enterprise in Context Understanding International Business 70 100 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 Business Economics Community Organisation, Sustainability and Development Finance and accounting Global Supply Strategies 30 70 International Entrepreneurship 100 International Macroeconomics and Finance 40 60 Quantitative Methods for Economics and Finance I Quantitative Methods for Economics and 100 Finance II The Multinational Enterprise in Context 50 Understanding International Business Business Economics 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 Page 18/25
Community Organisation, Sustainability and Development Finance and accounting Global Supply Strategies International Entrepreneurship International Macroeconomics and Finance Quantitative Methods for Economics and Finance I Quantitative Methods for Economics and Finance II The Multinational Enterprise in Context Understanding International Business 49 50 51 52 EP 1 (Wk 16) Business Economics Community Organisation, Sustainability and Development Finance and accounting Global Supply Strategies International Entrepreneurship International Macroeconomics and Finance Quantitative Methods for Economics and Finance I Quantitative Methods for Economics and Finance II The Multinational Enterprise in Context 50 Understanding International Business EP 2 (Wks 33, 34, 35) Page 19/25
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 PO1 PO2 PO3 PO4 BAM01 BAM02 BAM03 BAM04 BAM05 BAM06 BAM07 BAM08 BAM09 BAM10 BAM11 BAM12 BAM13 BAM14 BAM15 BAM16 BAM17 BAM18 PO1 PO2 PO3 PO4 BAM19 BAM20 Subject Specific Intellectual Skills PO5 PO6 PO7 PO8 BAM01 BAM02 BAM03 BAM04 BAM05 BAM06 BAM07 BAM08 BAM09 Page 20/25
PO5 PO6 PO7 PO8 BAM10 BAM11 BAM12 BAM13 BAM14 BAM15 BAM16 BAM17 BAM18 PO5 PO6 PO7 PO8 BAM19 BAM20 Subject Specific Practical Skills PO9 PO10 PO11 PO9 PO10 PO11 BAM01 BAM02 BAM03 BAM04 BAM05 BAM06 BAM07 BAM08 BAM09 BAM10 BAM11 BAM12 BAM13 BAM14 BAM15 BAM16 BAM17 BAM18 PO9 PO10 PO11 BAM19 BAM20 Page 21/25
Transferable Skills and Attributes PO12 PO13 PO14 PO12 PO13 PO14 BAM01 BAM02 BAM03 BAM04 BAM05 BAM06 BAM07 BAM08 BAM09 BAM10 BAM11 BAM12 BAM13 BAM14 BAM15 BAM16 BAM17 BAM18 PO12 PO13 PO14 BAM19 BAM20 Page 22/25
Appendix IV: Benchmark Benchmark Statement(s) Page 23/25
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 24/25
Powered by TCPDF (www.tcpdf.org) University of Lincoln Programme Specification - Master of Science (MSc) International Business Economics 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 25/25