University of Bradford: Postgraduate Programme specification UNIVERSITY OF BRADFORD School of Management Programme/programme title: Master of Science in International Business and Management Awarding and teaching institution: Final and interim awards: Programme title: University of Bradford Master of Science [Framework for Higher Education Qualifications level 7] Postgraduate Certificate [Framework for Higher Education Qualifications level 7] Postgraduate Diploma [Framework for Higher Education Qualifications level 7] International Business and Management Programme approved/ accredited by: Relevant subject Benchmarks: FHEQ Level 7 Duration: AMBA QAA Master s degree in Business and Management (2007) 1 Year (full time) Date produced: Original: May 2003 Amended: July 2008 Last updated : 5 th February 2014 Introduction In accordance with the University s mission Making Knowledge Work, the School of Management aims to provide programmes that educate you as a manager and business specialist, and thus improve the quality of management as a profession. This programme is designed to provide you with a sound understanding of the conceptual and theoretical underpinnings in management as well as to reflect best practice and innovative thinking and research in international business education and practice. The Masters in International Business and Management focuses on exploring the international activities of firms. The programme aims to develop subject specific knowledge and understanding at master s level that will enable you to pursue management careers in business and commerce or to pursue further research. In particular you will be equipped with the skills, knowledge and critical faculties required to operate and thrive in the contemporary global environment. MSc International Business and Management 28-08-14.docx Page 1
The programme is commensurate with the UK QAA Benchmark for a Type 2 (Career Entry) Masters Degree in Business and Management and is suitable for students from a wide range of backgrounds with first degrees in any subject from an approved university, or an acceptable professional qualification. Structured in three distinct stages (see below for further details) the programme represents 1800 hours of study or 180 UK credits, necessary for the award of a Master s degree. This Masters will appeal to those who wish to adopt a multidisciplinary approach to their studies, and have an international orientation towards business and management. On graduation from this programme you will be able to contribute to business and society as a whole whilst applying the highest professional standards and will be capable of identifying you own professional development requirements. Equipped with the skills, knowledge and critical faculties required to operate and thrive in the contemporary business environment, you will be ideally placed to pursue a career in a wide range of international business environments. Programme Aims This programme is intended to: A1. Develop management professionals with a sound theoretical understanding of organisational activities and the complexities that arise in the international management of these as a consequence of the interrelationships that exist between them; A2. Develop your competence in a range of analytical and personal skills necessary to enable you to make an effective and immediate contribution to the performance of an organisation in a range of functional areas; A3. Develop a critical awareness of the current issues affecting the multinational/international context and the knowledge, skills and expertise to assist organisations in achieving a sustainable business future; A4. Help those with knowledge and expertise in other disciplines to make the transition to the business and management world and assist them in developing their existing skills and knowledge within the business and management context; A5. Provide the knowledge and skills to assist you to take an active role in your future development as professional managers in a dynamic and changing global environment and to contribute effectively to your chosen profession. Programme Learning Outcomes When you have completed the programme you will be able to: L01. Explain the context in which organisations conduct their business and how the business environment influences strategic and operational decision making in a national and international context (PGC, PGDip, MSc); MSc International Business and Management 28-08-14.docx Page 2
L02. Describe in detail the functional activities of a business and the difficulties and management complexities that arise because of the interrelationships that exist between them (PGC, PGDip, MSc); L03. Critically discuss and evaluate the key issues in cross-border organisations and how this impacts the international business environment and the management of strategy and expectations in the constituent countries (PGC, PGD, MSc) L04. Synthesise and critically appraise emerging information and knowledge using quantitative and qualitative techniques to generate creative solutions to a range of business problems(pgd, MSc); L05. Design, conduct and manage research into a range of business and management issues/activities to inform the development of business strategies (PGD, MSc); L06. Develop solutions to complex business problems through the application of appropriate theoretical models, frameworks and decision support techniques (PGD, MSc); L07. Effectively communicate complex ideas clearly, both orally and in writing to a broad range of recipients (PGC, PGD, MSc); L08. Develop original solutions to complex problems, and to work cooperatively with others providing ethical leadership in effecting change (PGD, MSc); L09. Develop the knowledge and skills required to practice as a professional manager through critical self-awareness and reflective practice skills (PGD, MSc). Curriculum The Master s degree in International Business and Management is built on a foundation of general management modules. These represent stage 1 of the programme at the end of which you will have gained a thorough grounding in the theories and practices of the core functions of a modern business/organisation. In stage 2, you will take five additional compulsory modules: International Business Strategy, European Business Management, International Business in Emerging Economies and Cross-Cultural Management and, Strategic Management. You will also be able to choose one further 10 credit module in a subject which interests you from the list of options modules. On conclusion of stage 2 you will have developed a significant and detailed understanding of the issues that confront businesses operating on an international scale; the key theories of international business strategy, the rationales for international expansion and, foreign market entry modes, etc. You will understand the role and influence of culture in international business and the major policies and practices associated with cross-cultural management. You will study the particular features and demands of European Business and acquire knowledge of the practices and considerations required in newer emerging economies. In addition you will be provided with research training in the methods, tools and techniques of business research and project management to assist you with stage 3 of the programme. This stage requires you to undertake a personal research project MSc International Business and Management 28-08-14.docx Page 3
assessed by dissertation, which is an extended piece of written work involving an original and in-depth investigation of a specific management issue related to international business and management. Examples of recent dissertations covered include: entry strategies for Indian pharmaceuticals in the UK market; Japanese foreign direct investment in China; sustaining competitive advantage in the electrical and electronics industry; the impact of EU policies on levels of entrepreneurial activity in Europe. At the end of this element of the programme you will have demonstrated the ability to conduct research into practical business problems and will have the skills and knowledge to be able to operate effectively in a broad range of contemporary business environments. Each module represents approximately 100 hours study time of which typically 24 hours is contact time with the programme tutor(s) and the remaining 76 hours is made up of pre-reading, directed reading, preparatory work and assessment. Stage one: Module Code Module Title Type Credits Level Study period MAN4134M Business Economics Core 10 7 Sep-Dec MAN4154M Accounting and Finance Core 10 7 Sep-Dec MAN4222M MAN4139M Human Resource Management International Business Environment Core 10 7 Sep-Dec Core 10 7 Sep-Dec MAN4514M Operations Management Core 10 7 Sep-Dec MAN4146M Marketing, Planning & Strategy Core 10 7 Sep-Dec On successful completion of 60 credits (core modules) or more, but less than the 120 credits required for the Postgraduate Diploma, you will be eligible for the award of Postgraduate Certificate. Stage two: Module Code Module Title Type Credits Level Study period MAN4169M Strategic Management Core 10 7 Jan-Apr MAN4138M European Business Management Core 10 7 Jan-Apr MAN4135M Cross-cultural Management Core 10 7 Jan-Apr MAN4276M MAN4140M International Business in Emerging Economies International Business Strategy Plus one additional module from the list of option modules Core 10 7 Jan-Apr Core 10 7 Jan-Apr MSc International Business and Management 28-08-14.docx Page 4
On the successful completion of 120 credits, or more, but less than the 180 credits required for the Masters, you will be eligible for the award of Postgraduate Diploma. Stage three: Module Code Module Title Type Credits Level Study period MAN4515Z Dissertation Core 60 7 Apr-Sep On successful completion of 180 credits you will be eligible for the award of Master of Science in International Business and Management. The curriculum may change, subject to the University's programme approval, monitoring and review procedures. Study abroad opportunities Option 1: International Summer School An opportunity exists for you to take part in a one week International Summer School as a module option choice. This module is offered in early summer each year in collaboration with our European partner business schools, which include the Kozminski University (Warsaw), Deusto Business School, Universidad de Deusto (Bilabo) and Audencia Nantes Ecole de Management (Nantes) who are leading international business schools in Europe. The International Summer School is hosted by one of the member institutions on a rotating basis, this is to say that the event can be hosted in the UK, France or Spain. The International Summer School provides an opportunity for you to further develop your knowledge in key managerial areas and experience studying in a culturally diverse setting. Attendance at the International Summer School is competitive and subject to an additional fee and travel/maintenance costs. It may be necessary for those electing to take this option to miss a week of teaching in Bradford. If so, you will be expected to catch up. Option 2: Exchange Programme A small number of students from each cohort are able to participate in a student exchange programme whereby they spend semester 2 in one or two of our collaborative institutions [E.M. Lyon (École de Management Lyon) France, Kozminski University (Warsaw), EADA (Barcelona) and Audencia Nantes Ecole de Management (Nantes)]. Any student wishing to be considered for the exchange programme must discuss this with the Programme Leader in advance. Choosing to study abroad as part of this programme is not a decision which can be taken by an individual in isolation. Approval will be granted on an individual basis. When this is received, arrangements can be made. Participants in the Exchange Programme will be required to take the distance learning version of the Research Methods module (MAN4122M) provided by the School of Management and other subject options in the host institutions. MSc International Business and Management 28-08-14.docx Page 5
Exchange Programme options include: 1: Exchange with EM-Lyon 2: Exchange with Kozminski University (Warsaw) 3: Exchange with EADA (Barcelona) and Audencia Nantes Ecole de Management (Nantes). Accommodation, travel and subsistence costs during the exchange are the responsibility of the student. Credit transfer: ECTS is the European Credit Transfer System which facilitates the transfer of credits between participating institutions. Each 10 credit Bradford module is equivalent to 5 ECTS credits. Teaching and Assessment Strategies Teaching on the programme will be directed, supported and reinforced through a combination of formal lectures, staff/student led group discussions, personal research and guided self-study, tutorials, seminars and directed reading. These activities will all be further supported by the use of a virtual learning environment. Generally the programme will aim to integrate applied and theoretical knowledge with assessment processes that test both knowledge of the discipline and understanding of its application and limitations. To facilitate learning, lectures and seminars will typically utilise case studies and simulations. Sessions may be delivered weekly or in blocks. Small Group sessions will use case studies and simulations with oral feedback given in class. Students will be guided to suitable primary and secondary data sources and be required to conduct research and presentation exercises. Resources to support the teaching and learning activity will be provided on the University s virtual learning environment. Assessment The programme is summatively assessed by a mixture of written examinations, assessed coursework, case studies, group projects and multimedia presentations. Assessment is integrated with learning and teaching to support and demonstrate achievement of the learning outcomes for individual modules and the programme as a whole. Emphasis is place on the feedback function of formative assessment as part of the learning, teaching and assessment strategy as a whole. Learning outcomes 1, 2, 3 are focused on knowledge of international business and management. They are assessed by a mixture of closed book examinations and individual pieces of coursework and group work, including [multimedia] presentations. Learning outcomes 4, 5 and 6 are focused on subject specific skills aimed to equip you with the practical ability to contribute in your chosen profession. They are assessed by a mixture of closed book examinations and individual pieces of coursework and group work, including [multimedia] presentations. Learning Outcomes 7, 8 and 9 are focused on the transferable skills that are so important to employability, such as communication, practical creativity and selfawareness. They are assessed by a mixture of individual coursework, group MSc International Business and Management 28-08-14.docx Page 6
coursework, individual and group presentations (including multi-media), examination and individual coursework. The dissertation is a capstone module assessing all learning outcomes. Assessment Regulations Whilst this Programme conforms to the general principles set out in the standard University Assessment Regulations for Postgraduate Programmes which are available at the link below, there is one exception to these regulations, which is detailed below. http://www.bradford.ac.uk/aqpo/ordinances-and-regulations/ Waiver On completion of the taught element of the programme and at the Interim Exam Board, a student who has 50 credits or more requiring supplementary assessment will not be permitted to proceed to the dissertation stage of the programme. The decision to allow progression will only be reconsidered at the Supplementary Exam Board. Admission Requirements The University welcomes applications from all potential students with first degrees in any subject from an approved university, or an acceptable professional qualification; offers are made following detailed consideration of each individual application. Most important in the decision to offer a place is our assessment of a candidate s potential to benefit from their studies and of their ability to succeed on this particular programme. Consideration of your application will be based on a combination of your formal academic qualifications and other relevant information. If you have prior certificated learning or professional experience which may be equivalent to parts of this programme, the University has procedures to evaluate this learning in order to provide you with exemptions from specified modules contained within the curriculum. Please talk to us if you do not fit the standard pattern of entry qualifications. We are continually reviewing and developing our practices and policies to make the University more inclusive, but if you are disabled we may need to make some adjustments to make sure that you are not disadvantaged. We would advise you to contact the programme leader before you apply to discuss these. Normal entry requirements for this programme are: Candidates for the MSc in International Business and Management will normally have a first degree or its equivalent in any discipline from an approved higher education institute. Equivalent professional qualifications will also be eligible if supported with appropriate practical experience. As the programme is delivered entirely in English, applicants must be able to demonstrate proficiency in the English language thus, UK educated students must have a GCSE grade C or above. Non-native speakers must have a 6.5 score on IELTS test of English, 94 in the internet-based TOEFL or a score of 60 or more in the MSc International Business and Management 28-08-14.docx Page 7
Pearson English Test exceptionally, holders of a UK degree awarded within 2 years prior to entry to the Bradford programme may be exempt from these English test requirements. Learning Resources The JB Priestley Library on the city campus and our specialist libraries in the School of Health Studies and the School of Management provide a wide range of printed and electronic resources to support your studies. We offer quiet study space if you want to work on your own, and group study areas for the times when you need to discuss work with fellow students. Subject librarians for each School provide training sessions and individual guidance in finding the information you need for your assignment, and will help you organise your references properly. Student PC clusters can be found in all our libraries and elsewhere on the campus. Many of these are open 24/7. You can also use the University's wireless network to access the internet from your own laptop. Most of our online journals are available on the internet (both on and off campus), and you can also access your University email account, personal information and programme-related materials this way. Staff are on hand during the daytime to help you if you get stuck, and there is a 24/7 IT helpline available. The School of Management has excellent library and IT facilities in the Learning Resource Centre situated in the Sir Titus Salt Building on the Emm Lane Campus. We make extensive use of the University s VLE giving ready access to guided learning materials at all times whether on or off campus. The School of Management s Effective Learning Service is available to all students and it is especially valuable to students studying in the UK for the first time. Student Support and Guidance Programme Team Support for you personally and in your programme of study, will be provided both by the University and the Programme Team. Each student is allocated a dedicated Personal Academic Tutor (PAT) who is someone with whom you will be able to talk about any academic or personal concerns. The School will ensure that there is someone available with whom you feel comfortable to help and support you. You will be provided with a comprehensive series of handbooks that you can consult on a range of learning issues and your PAT will be available to consult on subject specific queries. Students Union We value the feedback provided by students and collaborate with the Students Union, through a system of student representatives and formal staff student liaison committees, so that any issues you wish to raise are addressed rapidly. The Students Union provides professional academic representation and advice. The Students Union and the University of Bradford work in partnership to provide MSc International Business and Management 28-08-14.docx Page 8
confidential counselling and welfare services where you can get help with any aspect of your personal or academic life. Student Financial and Information Services (part of the Hub) will provide you with information about a diverse range of issues such as council tax, personal safety and tourist information. International Students can access a range of additional advice and support services through the Student s Union. Employability and Career Development The University is committed to helping students develop and enhance their employability profile, commitment towards a career pathway(s) and to implementing a career plan. Professional career guidance and development support is available throughout your time as a student and as a graduate from Career Development Services. The support available from Career Development Services includes a wide range of information resources, one to one appointments, a weekly workshop programme, a mentoring programme, graduate recruitment and careers fairs, plus information and help to you find part time work, summer work placements, internship programmes and graduate/postgraduate entry vacancies. In addition, some students will receive seminars and workshops delivered by Career Development Services as part of their programme of study. All students are encouraged to access Career Development Services at an early stage during their studies and to use the extensive resources available on their web site www.careers.brad.ac.uk. Career Development Services annually undertakes a survey of all postgraduates to find out their destination six months after graduation. The survey gathers data on the employment and further study routes graduates have entered and a range of other information including job roles, name and location of employers, salary details etc. The survey findings for each programme of study are presented on the programme information pages on the University website and via Career Development Services website www.careers.brad.ac.uk Learner Development Unit for Academic Skills Advice For postgraduate students on taught programmes who are looking to improve their marks during their time at university, study skills and maths advice is available to all regardless of degree discipline. Students can access a programme of interactive workshops and clinics which is delivered throughout the year. This is in addition to our extremely popular face-to-face guidance from our advisers, who also offer a wide range of online and paper based materials for self-study. http://www.bradford.ac.uk/learner-development/ Disability Disabled students will find a supportive environment at Bradford where we are committed to ensuring that all aspects of student life are accessible to everyone. The Disability Service can help by providing equipment and advice to help you get the most out of your time at Bradford and is a place where you can discuss any concerns you may have about adjustments that you may need, whether these relate to study, personal care or other issues. For more information contact MSc International Business and Management 28-08-14.docx Page 9
the Disability Service by phoning: 01274 233739 or via email: disabilities@bradford.ac.uk University policies and initiatives Ecoversity Ecoversity is a strategic project of the University which aims to embed the principles of sustainable development into our decision-making, learning and teaching, research activities campus operations and lives of our staff and students. We do not claim to be a beacon for sustainable development but we aspire to become a leading University in this area. The facilities we create for teaching and learning, including teaching spaces, laboratories, IT labs and social spaces, will increasingly reflect our commitments to sustainable development. Staff and student participation in this initiative is crucial to its success and its inclusion in the programme specification is a clear signal that it is at the forefront of our thinking in programme development, delivery, monitoring and review. For more details see www.bradford.ac.uk/ecoversity/ This programme of study is at the heart of the University s and School s commitment to sustainability. Further Information: For further information, please check the University prospectus or contact us at: The Admissions Office The University of Bradford Richmond Road Bradford, BD7 1DP UK +44 (0)1274 233054 http://www.brad.ac.uk/programmes/ The Postgraduate Office School of Management The University of Bradford Emm Lane Bradford, BD9 4JL UK +44 (0)1274 234321 http://www.brad.ac.uk/management/ The contents of this programme specification may change, subject to the University's regulations and programme approval, monitoring and review procedures. MSc International Business and Management 28-08-14.docx Page 10
Appendix A: Indicative list of option modules Module Code Module Title Type Credits Level Study period MAN4153M Strategic Marketing (Simulation) Option 10 7 Jan-Apr MAN4251M Consumer Behaviour Option 10 7 Jan-Apr MAN4147M Marketing Communications Option 10 7 Jan-Apr MAN4150M International Services Marketing Option 10 7 Jan-Apr MAN4152M Strategic Financial Management Option 10 7 Jan-Apr MAN4266M Contemporary Issues in Accounting & Finance Option 10 7 Jan-Apr MAN4151M Strategic Accounting Option 10 7 Jan-Apr MAN4271M International Finance Option 10 7 Jan-Apr MAN4315M Sustainable Operations Option 10 7 Jan-Apr MAN4302M MAN4318M MAN4317M MAN4219M Technology and Innovation Management Environmental Management and Quality Systems Information Systems Planning for Sustainability Diversity in Work and Organisations Option 10 7 Jan-Apr Option 10 7 Jan-Apr Option 10 7 Jan-Apr Option 10 7 Jan-Apr MAN4144M Management of Change Option 10 7 Jan-Apr MAN4321M MAN4320M Corporate and Social Responsibility Applied Intellectual Property and Environmental Law Option 10 7 Jan-Apr Option 10 7 Jan-Apr MAN4270M Financial Statement Analysis Option 10 7 Jan-Apr MAN4284M Entrepreneurship and Innovation Option 10 7 Jan-Apr MAN4319M Decision Support for Sustainability Option 10 7 Jan-Apr MSc International Business and Management 28-08-14.docx Page 11
Appendix Bi: Curriculum map This table shows in which modules the main learning outcomes are developed and/or assessed: Programme Learning Outcomes Stage 1 Module LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7 LO8 LO9 Core MAN4134M A A A S S S A S Core MAN4154M A A A S S S A S Core MAN4222M A A A S S S A S Core MAN4139M A A A S S S A S Core MAN4514M A A A S S S A S Core MAN4146M A A A S S S A S Stage 2 Core MAN4169M A A A S S S A S S Core MAN4138M A S A A Core MAN4135M S A Core MAN4276M A S A S A A A S S Core MAN4140M A A S S S S S S Option MAN4153M S S S S S Option MAN4251M A A S A S A S Option MAN4147M S A S S Option MAN4150M S S A A S A S Option MAN4152M S S S S Option MAN4266M A A S A Option MAN4151M S A S S S Option MAN4271M A A S A A S A Option MAN4315M A S A A A A A S A Option MAN4302M A A S A A A A S Option MAN4318M A A A A Option MAN4317M A A A A Option MAN4219M A A A A A A S Option MAN4144M A A A Option MAN4321M A A A A Option MNA4320M A A A Option MAN4270M S S A A A A Option MAN4284M A A A Option MAN4319M A A A A Stage 3 Core MAN4515Z A A A A A A A A A MSc International Business and Management 28-08-14.docx Page 12
Notes: A = indicates that the outcome is formally assessed in the module; S = indicates that the outcome is explicitly supported in the learning and teaching but is not formally assessed Programme learning outcomes L01. Explain the context in which organisations conduct their business and how the business environment influences strategic and operational decision making in a national and international context L02. Describe in detail the functional activities of a business and the difficulties and management complexities that arise because of the interrelationships that exist between them L03. Critically discuss and evaluate the key issues in cross-border organisations and how this impacts the international business environment and the management of strategy and expectations in the constituent countries L04. Synthesise and critically appraise emerging information and knowledge using quantitative and qualitative techniques to generate creative solutions to a range of business problems L05. Design, conduct and manage research into a range of business and management issues/activities to inform the development of business strategies L06. Develop solutions to complex business problems through the application of appropriate theoretical models, frameworks and decision support techniques L07. Effectively communicate complex ideas clearly, both orally and in writing to a broad range of recipients L08. Develop original solutions to complex problems, and to work cooperatively with others providing ethical leadership in effecting change L09. Develop the knowledge and skills required to practice as a professional manager through critical self-awareness and reflective practice skills MSc International Business and Management 28-08-14.docx Page 13
Appendix Bii: Assessment map This table shows the methods of assessments used across different stages and modules: Methods of Assessment Stage 1 Module 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Core MAN4134M X Core MAN4154M X X Core MAN4222M X X Core MAN4139M X Core MAN4514M X X Core MAN4146M X X Stage 2 Core MAN4169M X 2a 2b 3a 3b 4a 4b Core MAN4138M X Open book examination Core MAN4135M X X X Core MAN4276M X Core MAN4140M X X Option MAN4153M X X Option MAN4251M X X Option MAN4147M X X X Option MAN4150M X Open book examination Option MAN4152M X X Option MAN4266M X X Option MAN4151M X X Option MAN4271M X X Option MAN4315M X X X Option MAN4302M X X Option MAN4318M X Option MAN4317M X X Option MAN4219M X X Option MAN4144M X X Option MAN4321M X Option MAN4320M X X Option MAN4270M X X Option MAN4284M X X Option MAN4319M X X Stage 3 MSc International Business and Management 28-08-14.docx Page 14
Core MAN4515Z X Dissertation Notes: 1. Closed book examination 2. Programme work: 2a Individual; 2b Group 3. Presentation: 3a Individual; 3b Group (Includes multimedia presentations) 4. Portfolio or learning log (Includes E-portfolio) 5. Workshop or software development 6. Peer assessment 7. Others specified MSc International Business and Management 28-08-14.docx Page 15
Appendix Biii: Teaching map This table shows the main delivery methods which are used across modules and stages: Teaching Methods Stage 1 Module 1 2 3 4 5 6 Core MAN4134M X X X Core MAN4154M X X X X Core MAN4222M X X X X Core MAN4139M X X X Core MAN4254M X X X Core MAN4146M X X X Stage 2 Core MAN4169M X X X Core MAN4138M X X Role play Core MAN4135M X X Core MAN4276M X X X X Core MAN4140M X X Option MAN4153M X X Simulation Option MAN4251M X X Option MAN4147M X X X Option MAN4150M X X Role play Option MAN4152M X X Option MAN4266M X X Option MAN4151M X X Option MAN4271M X X X Option MAN4315M X X X X Option MAN4302M X X Option MAN4318M X X X Option MAN4317M X X X Option MAN4219M X X X X Role play Option MAN4144M X X X Option MAN4321M X X X X Option MAN4320M X X X X Option MAN4270M X X X Option MAN4284M X X X X Option MAN4319M X X X X Stage 3 Core MAN4515Z X X X MSc International Business and Management 28-08-14.docx Page 16
Notes: 1. Lecture 2. Staff-led small Groups 3. Workshop or practical session 4. Guided research 5. Peer to peer learning and development 6. Others specified MSc International Business and Management 28-08-14.docx Page 17