[ MBA
Programme
]
[ Rationale of the Programme ]
MBA Programme IST / University of Hertfordshire
MBA Programme IST / University of Hertfordshire
[ Knowledge & Skills ]
The MBA is internationally recognised as the foremost management qualification. Both experienced and less experienced managers see the need to supplement practical experience with sound strategy and an understanding of the range of disciplines employed in today’s turbulent management environment. This course is aimed at suitably qualified and ambitious managers, keen to acquire the skills and knowledge vital to successful career development. The MBA will encourage your personal development, give you confidence and enhance your skills as well as encouraging you to take a variety of roles. The programme is designed to provide a critical and applied study at postgraduate level of leading edge and contemporary management theory, delivered through real-world business problems. Stage One provides a systematic understanding, knowledge and critical awareness of the essential functions, processes, their diverse nature, the governance and ethical dilemmas facing organisations and leaders and the external environment in which they operate. The fundamental objective of this stage is to understand the key sources of strategic advantage, develop a strategic mind set, leverage value, build organisational capacity and begin the process of understanding individual potential and their ability to develop leadership skills. Stage Two develops a deeper understanding of leadership and management as an integrative process and this stage requires synthesis, integration and practical application to real and messy problems. Stage Three provides a range of modules allowing the student to pursue individual interests and development needs. These modules offer a deeper understanding of knowledge and a critical awareness of current problems and/or new insights informed by the forefront of their academic discipline or field of study. Stage three also continues the process of understanding individual potential and further develops leadership skills. Stage Four integrates knowledge and skills from all previous stages in a final applied individual project.
The programme provides opportunities for students to develop and demonstrate knowledge and understanding, skills and other attributes in the following areas:
[ Knowledge and understanding ]
[ ] Broad range of organisations and the external context within which they operate [ ] Organisation and the inter-relatedness of internal aspects [ ] How organisations may strategically respond to forces and changes in the environment [ ] The pervasive debates issues and new insights affecting organisations [ ] Theories of leadership and strategy, their relationship to each other and influence on the organisation
[ Intellectual skills ]
[ ] Reflect on and learn from prior experience. Integrate new knowledge with past experience and apply it to new situations whilst challenging prior knowledge [ ] Recognise and address ethical dilemmas and CSR issues, applying ethical and organisational values to situation and choices [ ] Remove subject and functional boundaries to handle complex situations holistically [ ] Analyse, synthesise and critically evaluate to solve complex unstructured problems through the ability to identify false assumptions, evaluate statements, in terms of evidence, detect false logic or reasoning, identify implicit values, define terms and generalise appropriately
[
Aims of the Programme
This MBA programmes aims to:
]
[ Practical skills ]
[ ] Be creative, manage the creative process in self and others [ ] Conduct research into business and management both individually and as a team [ ] Use information and knowledge effectively [ ] Use numeracy and quantitative skills including the development and use of relevant business models [ ] Make effective use of CIT
[ ] Provide a contemporary, critical, integrated and applied programme of study at postgraduate level within the area of Business and Management. Through a systematic understanding of knowledge and a critical awareness of current problems and/or new insights, much of which is at, or informed by, the forefront of their academic discipline, field of study or area of professional practice; [ ] Provide students with the analytical and personal skills to deal with complex issues both systematically and creatively, make sound judgements in the absence of complete data or when faced with conflicting data, in complex and unpredictable situations; [ ] Provide students with the opportunity to demonstrate self-direction, leadership and originality in tackling and solving problems and act autonomously in planning and implementing tasks at a professional or equivalent level; [ ] Provide a theoretical grounding in approaches to research, supporting a practical understanding of how established research methods can be applied to develop and interpret knowledge of direct relevance to the challenges faced by both Multi National Corporate Enterprises and SME.
[ Transferable skills ]
[ ] Communicate effectively both orally and in writing, using a range of media including the preparation of business reports [ ] Maintain high personal effectiveness through critical awareness, self reflection and self management, sensitivity to diversity in people and different situation and the ability to continue to learn through reflection on practice and experience [ ] Manage effective performance within team environment practice and the ability to recognise and utilize individual contributions to group processes [ ] Demonstrate and develop leadership and performance management
[
Competitive Advantage
]
MBA Programme IST / University of Hertfordshire
MBA Programme IST / University of Hertfordshire
[
Mode of Delivery
]
The MBA programme has been designed in accordance with the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) benchmarks for Master’s programmes in Business and Management, and is also guided by the principles of the European Foundation for Management Development (EFMD) business excellence model. The IST-UH MBA is distinguished by its flexibility in content and delivery. The programme is designed to meet the growing standards of business to produce graduates who have rigorously developed leadership and personal skills alongside integrated strategic business skills and who are able to work in a global employment market. Globalisation and internationalisation are embedded into the modules and the students will be provided with the opportunity and will be expected to apply what is learnt into their own workplace or to a range of ‘live’ projects provided for them. The MBA is academically distinctive due to the fact that: [ ] The awarded degree is ranked among the top business degrees in the London area [ ] Our staff has extensive experience in teaching as well as significant work experience and therefore a strong emphasis on application of theory to practice is evident throughout the course [ ] Leadership skills are taught throughout the programme [ ] Research methods is an integral part of the programme [ ] There is a strong link with the industry therefore dissertations could be conducted in real work environments [ ] Renowned Guest Speakers provide lectures in the different modules bringing the students closer to up-todate problems and real-life situations
The programme is offered in full-time (12 months) and weekend (24 months) modes, and leads to the award of a Master in Business Administration. TBC
[ Structure of Programme ]
Stage One - core Prerequisites Stage Two - core Integration and team work Stage Three - core and Stage Four - core electives Strategic Business Themes Strategic Challenges (15 credits) Managing Financial Value Drivers (15 credits) Collective Enterprise (15 credits) Project Management - A Strategic Approach (15 credits) Entrepreneurship and Enterprise (15 credits) Applied Individual Project (45 credits)
Leadership: Developing Self and Others
Critical Issues in Corporate Strategy (elective module) (15 credits) or Appraising Organisational Performance (elective module) (15 credits)
People Management (15 credits)
Innovation Through Strategic Marketing (15 credits)
Leadership: Developing Self and Others (cont.) (15 credits)
[ Admission Requirements ]
Entry requirements for the programme in more detail are: [ ] A degree equivalent professional qualification or;
MBA Programme IST / University of Hertfordshire
MBA Programme IST / University of Hertfordshire
[ Support for Students & their Learning ]
[ ] An induction period at the beginning of the academic session; [ ] An extensive Learning Resources Centre, incorporating a Library and Computer Centre; [ ] Audio-visual equipment; [ ] A Programme Tutor to provide academic support, to advise students who fail to make sufficient academic progress and to provide students with guidance regarding appeals, complaint procedures and issues involving disciplinary procedures as well as to provide pastoral support when needed; [ ] A Personal Tutor for each student to provide him/her with advice and support on his/her individual study needs; [ ] A network of specialist academic and administrative staff that provide advice on issues such as finance, University regulations, legal matters, career opportunities, postgraduate studies etc.; [ ] A UH Link Tutor; [ ] English Language support classes; [ ] International Student Office; [ ] The Alumni Association; [ ] The Quality Assurance Office; [ ] The Registrar’s Office; [ ] The Disability Officer; [ ] The Careers Office; [ ] The Director of Studies; [ ] The Head of External Academic Affairs; and [ ] The Vice-Chancellor
Entry is normally with an Honours degree (at least 2:2 or above), but exceptionally it is possible to enter with relevant level industry experience (at least five years at an appropriate level). All applicants must have at least three years appropriate work experience. [ ] An Honours degree of at least 2:2 classification, in a business or non business-related discipline, from a UK University or Greek university (6.5/10 approx.) or; [ ] The equivalent of the above from a recognised University overseas or; [ ] A postgraduate qualification from a UK university or Greek university or its equivalent from a recognised overseas University.
Students will be supported through the following resources:
AND
[ ] A minimum of three years relevant work experience with identifiable responsibility such as supervision/direction of other employees’ work and/or budgetary control [ ] In view of the experiential requirement entrants will normally be a minimum of 24 years old [ ] Exceptionally students who do not have the required academic qualification will be accepted, but have at least five years substantive work experience The English Language entry requirements for the MBA are: a) an IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent; or b) for Greek national students an IELTS score of 6.0 or equivalent plus compulsory in-sessional English Language courses at IST; or c) for international students an IELTS score of 6.0 or equivalent plus pre-sessional English Language courses at IST
People choose to follow MBA programmes for many different reasons, including to transform their careers, to earn a higher salary, to move up in their current companies, to change professions or to learn skills that will allow them to start their own businesses. Graduates of the MBA programme can seek a career as financial analysts in economic departments of businesses, credit institutions (banks, investment companies), business consultancies, in health institutions as managers, in transportation and logistics companies and in the tourism industry in managerial positions. Moreover, they can pursue a career in the different fields of strategic design, marketing, market research, management and promotion of sales of mid to large- scale businesses in the European Union, the Balkans, the Middle East, America and Asia. They can also work in the departments of information organisation and administration, and also in the research and development departments of mid and large-scale businesses.
[ Professional Opportunities ]
[ Short Descriptionof the Modules
[ Innovation Through Strategic Marketing ]
MBA Programme IST / University of Hertfordshire
MBA Programme IST / University of Hertfordshire
[ Strategic Challenges ]
This module takes as its starting point the fact that all managers have a role to play in developing and/or implementing strategies to achieve organisation goals. You will learn how to use tools and techniques to analyse organisations and their environments and develop an integrated view of an organisation and possible futures for it. You will also explore different approaches to managing strategy that can be identified in real world organisations. The use of systems-based methodologies to represent complex and uncertain problems in order to explore their structure will be introduced and you will learn how to use computer-based simulation modelling techniques (system dynamics) as one way of representing and analysing strategic problems. Throughout the module, you will be encouraged to reflect on your own experiences of strategic management (whether as manager or managed) with the aim of developing your own professional and personal practice and that of others.
Businesses face mounting challenges from world economic factors, globalisation, legislation and increasing customer uncertainty. These challenges are forcing businesses to shorten their product life cycles and more importantly reassess their business costs against overall strategic marketing effectiveness. Marketing and operational professionals are increasingly challenged to take an overall business perspective and, as a consequence, need new skills and competencies. This module has two primary aims: firstly, to understand those drivers which will impact on the business growth and sustainability and, secondly, utilising the creativity, innovation and experiences internal and external to the organisation, to develop viable business solutions, providing for sustainable growth and competitive distinction. To achieve the above aims, this module engages on an innovation journey critically exploring the drivers and processes associated with value-led marketing and operations. You will understand, interpret and analyse the inherent problems associated with innovating new products and services. Through this, you will gain new insights into creating new business scenarios and better understand how to manage market orientation measured by multiple stakeholders.
[ Leadership: Developing Self and Others ] [ Managing Financial Value Drivers ]
You will be introduced to the principal theories and practice of financial management within the firm, focusing on the ways in which it is funded, the internal financial control and the ways in which economic value is measured, enhanced and distributed to stakeholders. You will be introduced to how financial information systems can be used to gain greater knowledge and competitive advantage. This module offers problem solving/decision-making techniques to identify, formulate and solve business problems for use by a non-specialist manager. Appropriate computer software packages will be used throughout the module to assist decision-making. Practical case studies from business will be used. This module is designed as an integrative process, allowing students to examine and reflect upon the complexities of organisational life, through participation in experiential events and activities that seek to reframe their practical experience and present them with the need to think about what is going on at several levels of understanding. This reframing may be achieved through, for example, more traditional case study work, business ‘games’, drama and story workshops, T-group and personal development groups and reflective interpersonal groups. Reflective consideration of work done in these reflective groups will form an important part of the developmental purpose of the module. A wide range of experiential and practical activities may be drawn upon, according to the developmental needs and interests of each cohort. This module runs throughout the taught element of the programme and will allow students to make sense of and integrate both their academic learning and their personal development.
[ People Management ]
This module is concerned with the management of the organisation’s key resource - the people who work for it. It encourages students to analyse and evaluate different perspectives on, and approaches to, the management of people and to develop an understanding of how effective people management contributes to organisational success. The module aims to develop an appreciation of the main contextual influences and their impact; it also examines strategic aspects and the main issues and complexities involved in the management of people. Today’s managers must be able to respond appropriately to the challenges involved in managing people in a dynamic and rapidly changing business environment. This means developing an understanding of the key aspects of people management and learning to apply relevant skills and techniques.
[ Collective Enterprise ]
Within a workshop-based environment, the module will explore the initial processes by which business managers identify, define, analysis, present and deliver business solutions. The practitioners will utilise the learning outcomes from the four contributing modules to create, develop and deliver change. The participants can choose a specific issue from their own organisation or analyse an existing organisation to identify an issue and then, through the application of their collective learning, build up a detailed business proposal. This proposal will utilise the selected readings or case studies given each week to develop proposals for change and will then be asked to present this in the form of a slideshow and written report.
[ Short Descriptionof the Modules
[ Entrepreneurship and Enterprise ]
MBA Programme IST / University of Hertfordshire
MBA Programme IST / University of Hertfordshire
[ Appraising Organisational Performance ]
This module aims to enable students to appreciate the utility of economic, accounting and finance approaches in the field of Business and Management. While the basic issues appear to overlap with some other areas of study, these approaches have their own characters and insights. To appreciate these insights, it is necessary to understand the particular methods and approaches adopted by these different disciplines to the same common issues. However, some techniques are familiar to all these fields, thus enabling cross-fertilisation with other approaches to Business and Management, e.g. investment appraisal. Different approaches to organisation and the understanding they provide on the structure, size and scope of businesses will be considered. As will the way in which the public sector is being reshaped along more market-oriented lines and the implications this has for business organisation. Thus, the following aspects will be explored: [ ] Performance measurement from different perspectives [ ] How business can thrive in increasingly competitive and global markets [ ] The increasing impact of financialisation in the business environment [ ] The dilemma between internal processes and external performance measurement [ ] Performance measurement and the role of stakeholders in both the public and private sectors
This module will address key issues in entrepreneurship and enterprise and the process of enterprise creation in the 21st century. The module will embrace mainstream entrepreneurship and enterprise theory and introduce students to key concepts, theories and models useful in the management of entrepreneurial and enterprise development. You will have the opportunity to discuss themes from the process of enterprise dynamics and innovation to the critical challenges of SME business success and failure. Examples will be drawn from several business sectors and communities. The module will address a wide range of themes drawn from: life cycles, entrepreneurial patterns, entrepreneurs and intrapreneurs and build on contemporary discussions of entrepreneurial skills and management and the overall identification and analysis of enterprise issues. During your studies, reference will also be made to broader issues, such as entrepreneurship traits and characteristics that form the ‘enterprise’ agenda.
[ Project Management: A Strategic Approach ]
Organisations in different disciplines invest heavily in project-based activities to achieve strategic business objectives, improve operational effectiveness and enhance their competitive position. Today’s business climate is characterised by unprecedented change in technology and globalisation, as well as by complex business relationships driven for competitive success. The importance of successful delivery of projects has become one of the main priorities for organisations. The aim of this module is to provide students with knowledge of quantitative and qualitative aspects of Project Management theory and philosophy. In this module, students will have an opportunity to explore the values that have superseded the traditional values of budget, time and quality. Different organisational structures are examined to discover their effectiveness in supporting project delivery and the role of the project manager is examined in relation to these structures. This module examines the position of projects within the organisation as a means of achieving strategic capability. This module is designed to highlight how project managers develop a project strategy, whilst managing project risk and maintaining the required quality and standard. This module will also develop knowledge and understanding of both classical and current project scheduling and budgeting techniques used in business today. Students will be guided into selecting, formulating, building, solving and analysing project management scheduling and budgeting problems. Students will use appropriate project management tools and software to solve problems.
[ Applied Individual Project ]
The applied individual project offers each participant the chance to work independently on a topic of direct relevance to their own career. Through engaging in this complex task, you can expect to transform your approach to Management. You will develop: [ ] The skills needed to integrate and apply your learning from the programme’s taught modules to a complex business problem [ ] Understanding of the challenges faced by a specific organisation in the context of the dynamic and uncertain international business environment [ ] The ability to locate, critically evaluate, present and analyse relevant data to support and develop your understanding [ ] A creative and balanced approach to problem-solving, using both facts and theoretical insights to identify and evaluate strategic options from a range of stakeholder perspectives Your work on the project will relate to your own business experience. You can choose to structure the work in any one of the three following ways: [ ] A desk-based applied project [ ] A live project [ ] A work-based learning report reflecting on challenges faced in employment or during an internship
[ Critical Issues in Corporate Strategy ]
This module builds on the ideas of strategy and leadership, by examining alternative interpretations of life in organisations and offering students opportunities to critically evaluate their potential impact on professional practice. Students are encouraged to think about widely used ideas related to strategic management and organisational change and to understand them, not in isolation from one another, but as closely inter-related, sometimes contradictory and/or complementary. Continuity and change, knowledge and learning, local interaction and global impact are practices and ideas scrutinised and considered in this module, not simply as management fads or theoretical notions, but as features of our working lives and relationships. Students are given the opportunity to explore what these ideas might mean to them locally as managers and leaders, and in the context of global organisations and strategies. Traditional strategic management ideas rooted in economics and systems thinking are acknowledged and drawn on, as well as currently relevant ideas regarding knowledge creation and management and ground-breaking ideas based on the complexity sciences.
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