Course HandbookMBAMaster of Business Administration

Year 2016 - 2017

Author: Professor Rune Todnem ByMBA Course Leader

ContentsSources of Additional Information....................................................................................11. Welcome to the Faculty..............................................................................................22. Welcome to your MBA...............................................................................................33. Useful Contacts and Resources.................................................................................4

3.1 Academic Contacts............................................................................................43.2 Administrative Contacts.....................................................................................43.3 Useful Internet Resources..................................................................................53.4 The Faculty Management Team.........................................................................6

4. What are the aims and outcomes of the course?.......................................................74.1. Programme Aims................................................................................................74.2 Management and Leadership Competencies.....................................................74.3 MBA Learning Outcomes....................................................................................94.4. Key Distinctive Features...................................................................................10

5. How is the course structured?..................................................................................115.1. Programme Title: MBA (Master of Business Administration) Full Time - September Intake (12 months)....................................................................................115.2 Programme Title: MBA (Master of Business Administration) Part Time - September Intake (36 months)....................................................................................125.3 Programme Title: MBA (Master of Business Administration) Intensive Delivery/Corporate Part Time - Flexible Intake (c.36 months).....................................135.4 Intermediate Early Exit Awards.........................................................................145.5 Progression.......................................................................................................15

6. How will I learn on this course?................................................................................166.1 Problem Practice Based Learning (PPBL)........................................................166.2 Learning to Learn..............................................................................................166.3 Timetabling.......................................................................................................176.4 MBA Programmes.............................................................................................176.5 VLE Blackboard................................................................................................186.6 MBA Modules....................................................................................................186.7 Assessment......................................................................................................186.8 MBA Module Assessment Summary.................................................................20

7. Support and Guidance.............................................................................................227.1 Academic Support and Guidance.....................................................................22

7.2 General Support and Guidance........................................................................227.3 Disability............................................................................................................227.4 The Students’ Union.........................................................................................237.5 Further Support.................................................................................................23

8. How do I hand in assignments?...............................................................................248.1 Submitting Assignments Online.......................................................................248.2 Anonymous Submission...................................................................................248.3 Written Assignment Submission......................................................................248.4 Learning Support Agreements.........................................................................248.5 Keeping a Backup............................................................................................258.6 Extenuating Circumstances..............................................................................25

9. Feedback on Your Work..........................................................................................269.1 Seven principles of good feedback..................................................................269.2 Coursework and other assessments, excluding examinations..........................269.3 Formal University examinations........................................................................26

10. External Examiners..............................................................................................2711. Personal Tutoring.................................................................................................28

11.1 Personal Tutors - Who are they?......................................................................2812. Recognition of Prior Learning..............................................................................2813. Award Regulations...............................................................................................2914. Concerns and Complaints....................................................................................3015. Academic Misconduct and Plagiarism..................................................................3016. Equality and Diversity...........................................................................................3017. Student Guide......................................................................................................31

Sources of Additional InformationThis handbook provides useful information about your course, how it will be delivered and how you will be assessed. It does not try to give you all the information you will need during your time at the university. More information can be found in the following places:

On-Line Student Guide

The on-line student guide (http://www.staffs.ac.uk/student/guide) provides important information about the university and the services available to students, including:

Welcome Week Student Cards e:VisionStaffs Portal Our Student Charter The Staffordshire Graduate Term Dates Timetabling Student accommodation Campus and travel information Finance, fees and support Disclosure and Barring Service applic-

ations Visas Course and module enrolment Recognition of Prior Learning Changing your award or modules Withdrawing or intermitting from your

course University rules and regulations Disciplinary matters including aca-

demic misconduct

Appeals and complaints Referencing and study skills (including

guidance on completing assessments) What to do if you can’t hand in work

due to circumstances beyond your control

Examinations Getting feedback on your work The student voice Employability and careers IT services and support Disability and dyslexia Counselling The Nursery The Multi-Faith Chaplaincy Graduation Certificates, Transcripts and Verifica-

tion Letters

Module HandbooksYour course is made up from a number of individual modules. Detailed information on each module is provided in separate module handbooks. Your module tutor will tell you how to ac-cess the handbook for their module.

The Blackboard On-Line Learning EnvironmentInformation and learning materials for your modules will be provided on the Blackboard on-line Learning Environment. Blackboard will form an important part of your learning experience. Please let your module tutor know if you encounter any problems accessing this material.

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1. Welcome to the Faculty

Welcome to the Faculty of Business and Law. You join us at a really exciting time, as we are transforming our campus into a modern and vibrant environment that will enhance the academic and social life of the University and your learning experience. Through the Staffordshire Graduate programme, we focus on you, our students. We will help you to become independent thinkers, to debate, question and discuss key issues in your chosen subject. You will be encouraged to be enterprising and entrepreneurial, to be an effective communicator and successful team worker. We will focus on supporting your development through your course, so that you will have the best opportunity for successful graduate employment on completion.

Employability, enterprise and entrepreneurship are important to us at the University and are integral to the design of all our courses. This means that we have close connections with employers, business practitioners and professional bodies that help us make our courses relevant, interesting and up to date. The people you will meet in the Faculty are friendly and approachable. They are all keen to help you succeed. Our aim is to nurture and inspire you, to help you grow, to build your potential through working in a vibrant, thriving, and sustainable international academic environment.

Our academic staff are passionate about their subjects, their teaching, research and enterprise. They will help you to build your knowledge, understanding and expertise through sharing with you experiences of their academic research, their work with local communities and their work with organisations, local, national and international.

The Faculty of Business and Law is international in its perspective. The people that you meet will inspire you through the international perspective they have gained through studying at or working in partnership with other Universities and Colleges both in this country and around the world. There are many opportunities for you to learn and gain a global perspective; from other students and the academic staff. We will help you to see new possibilities and to bring new horizons into view.

Above all, our strongest partnership is with you, our students. We put our students at the heart of everything that we do and we are committed to giving you the best possible experience we can. We understand the importance of the commitment you have made to us and we value the time you spend with us and remember, we are always pleased to hear what you have to say.

I hope you have a successful, exciting and fulfilling time with us.

Dr Peter JonesActing Dean of the Faculty of Business and Law

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2. Welcome to your MBA

Welcome to Staffordshire University Business School and your Staffs MBA. The history of the MBA goes back to 1908 when the first MBA programme was launched at the Harvard Graduate School of Business Administration with 15 faculty members and 80 students. Since then, the MBA has taken the world by storm. In a marketplace swamped by a range of MBA offerings, your MBA is specifically designed to meet the challenges of today through developing the management and leadership competencies Strategic agility, Organisational agility, Customer focus, Drive for results, and Career ambition (see pages 7- 8 for further information). Because all paths to career advancement rely on prudent development of these key competencies, every single one of our MBA modules are mapped to one of them.

We have high expectations of both our MBA candidates and our staff. All candidates are expected to contribute to the MBA journey by sharing your experience, expertise, questions, answers, and hunger for knowledge and development. Our staff all have industry experience and/or published research expertise that adds direct value to the modules they deliver, and they are expected to challenge you and your comfort zone. You are not expected to sit down and relax – you are expected to be in the driver’s seat! If your MBA is easy we haven’t done our job.

This is your MBA and it will be a good as you are willing to make it. Together, we are co-producers of the Staffs MBA. Be prepared for a challenge as the pace will be fast and the expectations high. Your MBA is delivered through Problem Practice Based Learning, where real and live organisational issues, challenges and problems are discussed in search of solutions. In this way we seek to prepare you for more onerous management and leadership challenges in whatever comes next in your career. This preparation is key to your individual career aspirations and hence career advancement and employability.

We are all here to help you through your studies, and you are here to challenge and support each other. We hope you have an enjoyable and rewarding journey with us.

For and on behalf of the MBA team: Proud to be Staffs!

Professor Rune Todnem ByMBA Course Leader@Prof_RuneTBy

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3. Useful Contacts and Resources

3.1 Academic Contacts

Course Leader: Professor Rune Todnem ByRoom B260, Brindley Building.

Telephone +44 (0) 1782 294161 E-mail: r.t.by@staffs.ac.uk

A full list of MBA delivery team can be found at: http://www.staffs.ac.uk/directory

3.2 Administrative Contacts

MBA Course Administrator David MayRoom B108, Brindley BuildingTel: +44 (0)1782 295907E-mail: d.may@staffs.ac.uk

Student Guidance Advisor: Andrea AlkerRoom B176, Brindley BuildingTel: +44 (0)1782 295903

E-mail: a.d.alker@staffs.ac.uk

Ann GraingerRoom B176, Brindley BuildingTel: +44 (0)1782 294073E-mail: a.m.grainger@ staffs.ac.uk

Teaching & Learning Manager Anni HollingsRoom B249, Brindley BuildingTel: +44 (0)1782 294202E-mail: e.a.hollings@staffs.ac.uk

Student Experience Manager: Sue ClewsRoom B358, Brindley BuildingTel: +44 (0)1782 29851E-mail: s.clews@staffs.ac.uk

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3.3 Useful Internet Resources

The Faculty website can be found at:http://www.staffs.ac.uk/faculties/business/

Here you will find details of timetables, contacts and news regarding the Faculty.

The Faculty uses Blackboard as an online learning environment, and information on modules on which you are enrolled can be accessed from this. Note: you can only get access to those modules that you are studying – if you cannot gain access to material, it may be that you are not correctly enrolled on the module – make sure you let your module tutor or course administrator know.

Blackboard can be found at:

http://blackboard.staffs.ac.uk

The library can be accessed from:

http://www.staffs.ac.uk/support_depts/infoservices/library/

The MBA Course Administrator (contact details provided in section 3.2) is your first point of contact for administrative aspects and support within the Faculty relating to your MBA studies.

It is important that you get to know your Course Administrator as they are responsible for keeping all the information on your time with us accurate and up-to-date. In particular, make sure that you:

Check your University e-mail account regularly for any information or queries sent to you by Faculty administrators or by academic staff. It is your University e-mail account which we will use for all University correspondence.

Always let the Course Administrator know of any changes in your contact details. This includes phone numbers as well as home and term addresses. It really is important that we know how to get in touch with you – for example not telling us of a change of address might mean results / referral information do not get to you.

All queries, no matter how small or large, are welcome as they ensure that your records are always correct – and this does prevent delays or difficulties in confirming results at the end of each Academic Year. If you have an issue or problem and need help, if the Course Administrator cannot help directly they will usually be able to refer you to somebody who can.

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3.4 The Faculty Management Team

The Dean of Faculty

Dr Peter JonesRoom B315, Brindley BuildingTel 01782 294062E-mail: peter.jones@staffs.ac.uk

In this role, the Dean has responsibility for the strategic development, operation and management of the Faculty. Should you need to speak with the Dean, you should normally make an appointment with his personal assistant, Adell Landon, B315 Brindley Building, Tel 01782 294062. E-mail adell.landon@staffs.ac.uk

Faculty Associate Deans

Reporting directly to the Dean, there are two Associate Deans:

Robert CurtisAssociate Dean, Learning and Teaching B250, Brindley BuildingTel 01782 294346E-mail: r.w.curtis@staffs.ac.uk

Professor David WilliamsonAssociate Dean, Scholarship, Enterprise and Research. B312, Brindley BuildingTel 01782 294144E-mail david.williamson@staffs.ac.uk

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4. What are the aims and outcomes of the course?

4.1. Programme AimsThe Staffs MBA programme aims seek to establish a solid basis for career advancement or for those seeking new employment opportunities. It aims to:

Provide an advanced course of study in management and leadership within rapidly changing business environments where teaching seeks to explore contemporary approaches to business practice.

Develop defined management and leadership competencies in high capability individuals who can apply their knowledge to address contemporary business challenges.

Based on problem, practice learning, develop an understanding of critical evaluation methodologies appropriate to address contemporary challenges in business.

Develop an overall capacity for independent, critical and creative thinking.

Develop critical skills to assess and evaluate academic literature and other forms of research output to inform business practice in the context of management and leadership.

Prepare you for career advancement or new employment opportunities or continued employment with a diverse range of key and clearly defined management and leadership competencies.

The aims for this course have been derived from and mapped against the National Benchmark Standards for Postgraduate Business and Management awards which were developed taking into consideration guidelines and position papers at the master's level produced by EQUAL (the European QUAlity link). Detailed learning outcomes for all modules are given in the module descriptors.

4.2 Management and Leadership Competencies

Challenges facing managers and leaders have and continue to undergo significant change such that key competencies are required to support continued career development in an increasingly competitive environment.

It is not sufficient to understand the theory and techniques alone. Critically, successful managers and leaders must possess the required competencies or the ability to apply their skill-set together with an understanding of contemporary business issues and risks to succeed. This postgraduate course has been designed to offer those either in or embarking on careers in management or leadership the opportunity to succeed.

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The MBA aims for you to develop five key management and leadership competencies in:

1. Strategic agility

The ability to perceive and implement direction at a strategic level; to evaluate the implications of setting direction and implementation. Can you take an aerial view of business operations and assess the strategic rather than tactical implications of market dynamics and leadership decisions as they impact business performance?

2. Organisational agility

The ability to navigate effectively within an organisation; to understand not just wiring diagrams and structures but informal networks and organisational culture. Can you understand the subtlety that exists within business organisations - not just the structure but how networks - both formal and informal operate; how organisation cultures impact but yet evolve and critically sometimes resist?

3. Customer focus

Understanding what a customer really wants be they internal or external and how you should operate to secure repeat business. Can you take a Customer perspective, so that you provide the Customer (both internal and external) with what is required; even when you have to manage unrealistic expectations?

4. Drive for results

Making sure you can operate and deliver against key drivers of quality, cost and timescale - even when the pressure is on. Can you operate under pressure? Can you make decisions where not all information is available and the outcomes have far reaching consequences?

5. Career ambition

Career ambition is a key management and leadership competency. Always take steps to know and understand your abilities and limitations plus critically what new skills and competencies do you have to plan for and develop to ensure you secure that key next step on the career ladder. Do you have a career plan? We will be guiding you throughout the MBA to develop your own individual plan to ensure you achieve your career aspirations.

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4.3 MBA Learning Outcomes

The key learning outcomes of the MBA course which flow down into all individual Module learning outcomes are:

Demonstrate a systematic awareness, understanding and knowledge of contemporary management and leadership issues in both a local and global context. (Knowledge and Understanding)

Demonstrate intellectual and entrepreneurial skills in the problem/practice based application of management and leadership, together with a practical understanding of how established management and leadership techniques are applied in contemporary business applications. (Application)

Demonstrate the ability to learn and to take responsibility for continuing career development. Contextualise, analyse and learn from experience or simulated environments taking both local and global perspective on contemporary developments and research in management and leadership. (Learning)

Generate innovative and enterprising approaches and solutions to management and leadership challenges which inform decision making in effective business risk management. (Problem Solving)

Devise and apply valid problem/practice based evaluation and investigative techniques to interpret complex business challenges and propose solutions. Demonstrate understanding of selected investigative techniques within contemporary business paradigms. (Enquiry)

Demonstrate a conceptual understanding and critical awareness of contemporary developments in management and leadership. Evaluate the rigour and validity of evaluation and relevance to contemporary issues in management and leadership. (Analysis)

Articulate complex business information, situations and scenarios based on critical awareness and knowledge, adapting to different audiences, circumstances and feedback using a variety of communication tools and approaches. (Communication)

Reflect on and demonstrate development of the underpinning management and leadership competencies to enhance employability and/or career advancement in positions of management and leadership. (Reflection)

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4.4. Key Distinctive Features

The key distinctive features of the MBA are:

A single MBA course which offers a comprehensive suite of core management and leadership topics with the ability to select from a wide range of option topics affording the flexibility to tailor teaching and learning to suit individual career plans.

A vocational ethos aimed at delivering the competencies for agile management and leadership with an attitude and confidence to embrace and manage risk inherent in business.

Options to study in a number of different ways - either full time part time of more intensive flexible delivery and timescales to suit individual requirements.

Critically aimed at developing key management and leadership competencies in strategic agility, organisational agility, customer focus, drive for results and career ambition.

An underpinning PPBL philosophy which combines a theory and practice informed approach to teaching and learning based on contemporary business issues and challenges

Incorporating a wide range of approaches to assessment designed to incorporate the philosophy of PPBL that reflects contemporary business contexts.

A final Project to demonstrate and contextualise overall course learning outcomes on a subject relevant to individual employment experience.

Running concurrent with teaching and learning there are two underpinning ‘Events’ and ‘Career Advisory’ programmes aimed at developing/enhancing networks and supporting career advancement/securing new employment opportunities.

Timetabling will be sympathetic to part time MBA students and will involve afternoon, evening and in some cases weekend class-room sessions.

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5. How is the course structured?

5.1. Programme Title: MBA (Master of Business Administration) Full Time - September Intake (12 months)

60 Credits

LEVEL

7

Teaching Block 1

Managing People & Organisations

(15 credits)

Strategic MarketManagement

(15 credits)

Risk Management (15 credits)

Performing in Organisations

(15 credits)

120 Credits

LEVEL

7

Teaching Block 2

Leadership & Strategic Management

(15 credits)

Option

(15 credits)

Option

(15 credits)

Option

(15 credits)

180 Credits

LEVEL

7

Teaching Block 3

Project (60 credits)

The FTMBA will offer the opportunity for all students to seek and undertake industrial placement. This is not however guaranteed and will remain each student’s individual responsibility.

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5.2 Programme Title: MBA (Master of Business Administration) Part Time - September Intake (36 months)

Year 1 - 60 Credits

LEVEL

7

Teaching Block 1

Managing People & Organisations

(15 credits)

Strategic MarketManagement

(15 credits)

Teaching Block 2

Leadership & Strategic Management

(15 credits)

Option

(15 credits)

Year 2 - 120 Credits

LEVEL

7

Teaching Block 1

Risk Management (15 credits)

Performing in Organisations

(15 credits)

Teaching Block 2

Option

(15 credits)

Option

(15 credits)

Year 3 - 180 Credits

LEVEL

7

Teaching Block 1

Project (60 credits)

Potential Options (dependant on student numbers)

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Applied Psychology in Business Marketing Innovations Financial Concepts & Practice Contemporary Challenges in HRM Cross Cultural & International HRM Project Management Operations/SCM Change Leadership International Business Entrepreneurship Business Law

5.3 Programme Title: MBA (Master of Business Administration) Intensive Delivery/Corporate Part Time - Flexible Intake (c.36 months)

Although the Corporate Part Time provision is currently operated along similar lines to the September intake Part Time programme, actual intake is determined by individual client demand - hence cohorts ordinarily commence study throughout TB1/2. This approach is expected to continue with the current proposal.

The target is to study 30 credits/TB e.g. 2x15 credit modules - to accumulate 180 credits over a nominal 36 month period of study. Dependant on client demand it would however be possible to conduct an accelerated c.24 month programme over TB1/2 & 3. It is therefore envisaged that there could continue to be multiple corporate cohorts over TB1/2/3.

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5.4 Intermediate Early Exit Awards

PG Certificate in Business Administration

On completion of the 60 credits students can be awarded an intermediate PG Certificate in Business Administration exit award e.g. the student is not continuing further MBA study.

1. For FT participants having successfully completed the following 4x15 credit modules:

Managing People & Organisations Strategic Marketing Management Risk Management Performing in Organisations

2. For the PT participants having successfully completed the following 4x15 credit modules:

Managing People & Organisations Strategic Marketing Management Leadership & Strategic Management 1xOption module

This programme serves as a foundation of learning. It allows students to broaden and deepen their professional knowledge base, skill-set and competency through a process of enquiry and critical reflection.

On completion of 60 credits, participants will demonstrate:

Demonstrate a systematic awareness, understanding and knowledge of contemporary management and leadership issues in both a local and global context (Knowledge and Understanding)

Devise and apply valid problem/practice based evaluation and investigative techniques to interpret complex business challenges and propose solutions. Demonstrate understanding of selected investigative techniques within contemporary business paradigms. (Enquiry)

Reflect on and demonstrate development of the underpinning management and leadership competencies to enhance employability and/or career advancement in positions of management and leadership. (Reflection)

PG Diploma in Business Administration

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On completion of the 120 credits students can be awarded an intermediate PG Diploma in Business Administration exit award e.g. the student is not continuing further MBA study.

3. For FT participants having successfully completed the modules above plus the following 4x15 credit modules:

Leadership & Strategic Management 3xOption module

4. For the PT participants having successfully completed the modules above plus the following 4x15 credit modules:

Risk Management Performing in Organisations 2xOption module

This programme serves as a basis for greater learning. It allows students to expand their professional knowledge base, skill-set and competency through a process of application, enquiry and continued critical reflection.

On completion of 120 credits, participants will demonstrate Certificate level learning outcomes plus:

Demonstrate intellectual and entrepreneurial skills in the problem/practice based application of management and leadership competencies, together with a practical understanding of how established management and leadership techniques are applied in contemporary business applications. (Application)

Demonstrate a conceptual understanding and critical awareness of contemporary developments in management and leadership. Evaluate the rigour and validity of evaluation and relevance to contemporary issues in management and leadership. (Analysis)

5.5 Progression

In order to progress - all students must ordinarily have obtained a pass in all taught modules whether studying Full Time or Part Time and Corporate/Part Time in order to continue on to the final Project phase:

For Full Time students it is necessary to obtain a Pass in all taught modules (120 credits) over the course of 1 year before continuing to the final Project stage.

For Part Time and Corporate/Part Time students it is necessary to obtain a pass in all modules (60 credits in Year 1 and 120 credits by end Year 2) before continuing on to the final Project stage.

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Otherwise in all cases award specific regulations must permit compensation of a failed module or retrieval of failure at the final stage of your programme of study.

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6. How will I learn on this course?

This section provides you with important information about teaching and learning. It also contains crucial information about how you are assessed, how your work is marked and the marking policies and procedures employed within the Business School.

6.1 Problem Practice Based Learning (PPBL)

The underpinning approach and hence philosophy throughout the MBA is Problem Practice Based Learning (PPBL).

The aim of the MBA is to enable students to deal with real world issues within an intellectual and challenging environment in this dynamic area of management and leadership. It will enable you to develop key competencies providing the ability to apply contemporary techniques for decision making in complex situations faced by managers and leaders across a wide range of industry and business sectors.

The principle approach to learning is centred on Problem Practice Based Learning (PPBL). All MBA students will work collaboratively with each other and with teaching staff tackling real world or authentic problems allowing development of skills and hence application as management and leadership competencies. Focus on PPBL will lead you to be capable independent learners, who understand the key issues relevant to business and your respective professions. MBA teaching staff will utilise their wide experiences of both research and professional practice to create authentic, valid and challenging learning experiences throughout all MBA teaching and learning. MBA students come from a wide range of backgrounds and hence possess a wide range of skills and competencies plus expectations at the start of their study. The aim is to work in partnership with MBA students to ensure all students are continuously challenged whilst being provided with the required support to enable success.

6.2 Learning to Learn

All our students will engage in 'learning to learn' and become increasingly reflective learners through adoption of the PPBL philosophy and hence development of key management and leadership competencies.

Employers will recognise that our students are better equipped to enter the world of work, or will make a greater contribution to their current roles.

Learning activities are tailored to this approach by engaging with authentic and challenging real problems, allowing you to evolve understanding, and analytical skills; hence facilitating development of the 5x key management and leadership competencies.

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The focus will therefore be on 'active' learning. Active learning is centred on communication, discussion which replaces more traditional teacher led classroom engagement. Class sessions will therefore be an opportunity for teaching staff to demonstrate their expertise and enthusiasm of the subject and hence facilitate your learning most effectively.

Many approaches to PPBL will be innovative and novel – pushing the boundaries of learning and knowledge in the MBA subject areas. MBA class sessions aim to be dynamic where you are valued contributors to constructive, collaborative and technology based learning. The PPBL philosophy aims to set in context the latest theories, models and frameworks throughout all modules so you can see where to apply your new skills as competencies in management and leadership roles. .

The methods of teaching and learning used will vary according to the nature of the subject matter but will have a wide diversity from formal lectures to more student centred activities including tutorials, seminars, case studies, management simulation/exercises, group work, workshops, project work, role play plus virtual learning environments in addition to independent study and desk based/empirical research activity. In all classes, much emphasis will be placed on active, experiential learning which encourages preparatory work for full class participation. Come prepared to both learn and participate.

Directed independent and work based study will also be utilised to support and build on your knowledge, skills and competencies to provide a fuller understanding and context to each module. Both personal and module tutors will be available to provide 1:1 support where you feel it is required.

6.3 Timetabling

Timetables will be made available to you at the start of each Semester teaching. You will discover that the MBA adopts a sympathetic approach to timetabling where for example classes may be conducted during afternoons and evenings to accommodate part time students whilst retaining the ability of all MBA students to experience the widest and most diverse learning experience.

6.4 MBA Programmes

It is also expected that all students will actively participate in and contribute to both the Events and Careers Advisory programme events and activities which will be running concurrent with module teaching and learning.

The Events programme will start with an induction event, at least two weekend residential events plus factory visits, guest speakers and a host of other activities

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e.g. breakfast club/networking and post graduate/alumni social activities to facilitate learning through networking.

The Careers Advisory programme also aims to provide individual advice in areas such as option choice, developing business competencies, developing a career plan, 1:1 career coaching, advice on CV’s and media training. Continuous emphasis is placed on the PDP process as the primary vehicle to assess and plan personal development to ensure consistent reflection to maximise learning and hence employability potential.

6.5 VLE Blackboard

The VLE (Blackboard and other digital media) also plays a key role in ensuring communication is maintained and direction is provided for you to ensure a depth and breadth of learning. All modules are represented on our VLE. Many are adapted to facilitate your online learning opportunities plus we will also be providing intermediate/formative assessment criteria e.g. tests, questionnaires and direction to supplement our suite of web based learning resources.

6.6 MBA Modules

The curriculum is structured so that both knowledge and knowledge developed within module teaching is PPBL and hence fully transferable e.g. applied and hence able to be further developed to wider/new concepts in other modules and/or the work-place whatever your discipline, role, background or experience.

At the start of each module we will provide you with access to a module handbook.

This contains further details about the specific approach to teaching and learning and guidance on how to manage learning and approach to assessment. Each module has a specified module leader and hence all module-related enquiries should in the first instance be directed to the module leader.

6.7 Assessment

These are written in the light of professional-based assessment guidelines and QAA benchmark standards list Skills for all Masters Programmes. In essence, these are a demonstrable range of appropriate cognitive, critical and intellectual challenges, approaches to research in addition to relevant interpersonal competencies associated with management and leadership.

To assure student progress, focus will be on assessment and feedback that provides guidance throughout the duration of MBA study. Developmental and formative

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assessment will be used throughout every module providing feedback on performance. There will be a variety of assessment methods to engage students in real-life experiences, and prepare for subsequent careers. MBA assessments will also be based on PPBL aimed at facilitating development of the key defined 5x management and leadership competencies.

As an example, assessment methods include both individual assessment and projects, individual and group reports, individual and group presentation, directed debate, case analysis and 'viva-voce' (aural) and formal closed book examinations plus final Project. Assessment methods vary between modules but the overall strategy is to have a balanced set of assessments utilising a variety of different approaches all based on the philosophy of PPBL.

All MBA students will be provided with feedback in every module at every stage of learning to enable optimum approach and preparation for final assessment.

Because the PPBL philosophy is based on engagement and dialogue as a key component of a learning organisation, it is axiomatic that student feedback will be sought both during and following each element of learning to engender an overarching MBA culture of continuous improvement.

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6.8 MBA Module Assessment Summary

Core Modules (15 credits)

Leadership & Strategic Management

Individual Research Project 3,000 words (100%)

Managing People & Or-ganisations

Individual Assignment 3,000 words (100%)

Risk Management Closed Book Examination 2 hours (100%)

Strategic Marketing Man-agement

Group Presentation & Indi-vidual Assignment

15 minutes (25%)

2,500 words (75%)

Performing in Organisations Individual Presentation & Individual 'Viva Voce' (Oral) Examination

2,500 words (80%)

20 minutes (20%)

Final Project (60 credits)

Project (60 credits) 'Dragons Den' proposal presentation, Project Study & Summary 'Viva' Final Presentation

15 minutes (10%)

15,000 words (80%)

10 minutes (10%)

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Option Modules (15 credits)

Applied Psychology in Business

Individual Presentation & Individual Development Plan

30 minutes (50%)

2,000 words (50%)

Marketing Innovations Group Presentation & Indi-vidual Assignment

15 minutes (40%)

2,500 words (60%)

Financial Concepts & Practice

Closed Book Examination 2 hours (100%)

Contemporary Challenges in HRM

Assignment with individu-ally agreed choice of me-dium

3,000 word equivalent (100%)

Cross Cultural & Interna-tional HRM

Group Presentation & Indi-vidual Assignment

15 minutes (60%)

2,500 words (40%

Project Management Individual Assignment 3,000 words (100%)

Operations & Supply Chain Management

Group Presentation & Indi-vidual Assignment

10 minutes (10%)

2,500 words (90%)

Change Leadership Group Presentation & Re-port + Individual Reflection

30 minutes (40%)

2,000 words (40%)

500 words (20%)

International Business Individual Case Study & In-dividual 'Viva Voce' (oral) examination

2,500 words (80%)

10 minutes (20%)

Entrepreneurship Group Business Plan & Presentation + Individual Reflection

2,000 words (60%)

15 minutes (25%)

500 words (15%)

Business Law Individual Report 3,000 words (100%)

Note: a more comprehensive description of module assessment is contained within the individual module descriptors

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7. Support and Guidance

7.1 Academic Support and Guidance

Throughout your course you will meet the Module Tutors at the taught sessions. If you require additional advice and guidance, please do not hesitate to contact the Module Tutors, Course Leader or the Course Administrator. One-to-one support tutorials can be arranged on request, either be face to face, by telephone or by e-mail.

Please contact your tutor if you have any concerns about assessment or any other aspect of your course. Generic support with studying, assignments and assessments can be found on the libraries’ Learning Support web-pages:

http://www.staffs.ac.uk/support_depts/infoservices/learning_support/index.jsp

7.2 General Support and Guidance

If you have concerns about your ability to complete your course for any reason, you are strongly encouraged to speak to one of the tutors and hopefully a mutually agreeable support strategy can be offered to you.

If you have any general concerns, the Faculty Student Guidance Advisor can help you with a wide range of educational issues as well as offering specialist information and support. A drop-in service is available, but to discuss an issue in depth you can then book an appointment.

If you are part-time, off campus, or a distance learning student you can telephone or email your faculty Advisor. These details are on the Student Guidance website:

http://www.staffs.ac.uk/support_depts/studentguidance/index.jsp

7.3 Disability

Staffordshire University is committed to enabling all students to achieve their full potential. If you have a disability or specific learning difficulty (SpLD) which might affect your progress, you are strongly advised to disclose this to one of the Course or Module Tutors at the earliest opportunity. Every effort will be made to implement any reasonable adjustments to the learning environment in order to support you through the module. Each Faculty has a Disability Coordinator who coordinates support for disabled students.

The Student Enabling Centre provides specialist study support for disabled students and also a counselling service to support students who may experience issues that affect their mental wellbeing. The service provides a range of information, advice and

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facilities such as offering study needs assessments, help to apply for the Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) and providing study support services for students with dyslexia.

At Stoke, the Student Enabling Centre is based in the Cadman Courtyard, and at Stafford in the One Stop Shop in the Beacon Building. More information about the Student Enabling Centre can be obtained from:

http://www.staffs.ac.uk/study/disabled/ or by e-mail at:

disability@staffs.ac.uk or counsellingreception@staffs.ac.uk

7.4 The Students’ Union

Your Students’ Union understands the pressures and challenges of academic study and is always here to help all its student members. Representation

If you have an issue with your course, you can turn to your Student Academic Representatives. Elected by their course mates, the Student Academic Reps are there to listen to your views, represent them at faculty meetings involving your course and feed them back to the Students’ Union to help achieve positive outcomes for you. If you’re not sure if your course has a Student Academic Rep, get in touch with the Students’ Union and we can find yours or help you become one. Advice

For those matters that can’t be fixed so easily, the Union also provides a team of fully-trained advisers to help you solve your problem. Available on both Stafford and Stoke campuses, the advisers can be seen for free all week, just drop in to find out when they’re free. The team can help you with academic issues, housing, student funding, benefits and much more. If you can’t make it into the Union, you can also chat to them online at:

www.staffsunion.com/advice      

7.5 Further Support

The University has other services which offer support to international students, mature students, students with caring responsibilities and students who have been in care. Information on all our services for students can be found at:

http://www.staffs.ac.uk/study/services/

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8. How do I hand in assignments?

8.1 Submitting Assignments Online

Online assignments will be submitted through BlackBoard, using one of a number of methods. In each case, the module handbook and BlackBoard site for that module will make it clear how and when you are required to submit your work. All assignments should be submitted through the Module space in Blackboard, and not through the course space. All assignments are marked anonymously unless this is not possible or undesirable

In some cases you may be asked to submit your work via email or another online process. In each case, this will be made clear in your module handbook.

All electronic submissions via Blackboard should have an e-version of the coversheet cut-and-pasted into the front of your assignment document.

8.2 Anonymous Submission

Note that most assignments are marked anonymously, and that you are asked to fold and stick down the top-flap of the assignment receipt form to conceal your name before handing in your work. This is an important tool in helping to safeguard the integrity of the assessment process. Anonymous marking, however, may not be appropriate certain kinds of assessment (for example, an artefact or presentation).

For online submissions, we will use the tools available in Backboard to ensure anonymity wherever possible.

8.3 Written Assignment Submission

Written assignments will either be submitted online through Blackboard. Each module handbook will make it clear how you will be expected to submit your work.

8.4 Learning Support Agreements

If you have a learning support agreement which recognises dyslexia as a disability make sure that you ask for one of the yellow stickers (available from the Faculty Office) to attach to your work to signal to the tutor that the assignment needs to be marked on content and understanding and not penalised for grammar, spelling or punctuation errors.

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For online submissions, you will be advised by you Faculty Office, or in the module handbook on how to signal this to your tutor.

Similarly, if your learning support statement specifies that you can negotiate the submission dates of your assessments then please ensure that you have agreed new submission dates with your tutor in advance of the original deadline. On the Faculty assignment cover-sheet there is a box for stating the agreed negotiated deadline and the tutor’s signature. Please be mindful of the fact that you may need to complete the cover-sheet in advance of the submission date to ensure you get the tutor’s signature – rather than assume the tutor will be available on the day / time you intend to submit.If you hand work in after a negotiated deadline, it will be treated as ‘late’, and will be marked at zero. So, if having once negotiated a deadline you find that, as it approaches, you are going to need a further extension, you will need to go back to your Course Leader / Personal Tutor to authorise this. Your Course Leader / Personal Tutor will use the test of ‘reasonableness’ in agreeing to any further extension.

If you need to adjust the assignment schedule agreed with your Course Leader / Personal Tutor for reasons that are unrelated to your disability, then you will need to use the normal Extenuating Circumstances procedure.

8.5 Keeping a Backup

Finally, of course, it is good practice to keep a hard or (backed-up) electronic copy of any assignment you submit, whether that assignment is submitted on paper or electronically. Should the assignment you submit get lost, then you will have the receipt to prove that you handed it in, and a copy to replace what has been lost.

8.6 Extenuating Circumstances

If your absence from the programme, for example as a result of ill-health, affects any aspect of your assessment, you may be eligible to submit a claim for extenuating circumstances. The University defines extenuating circumstances as ‘circumstances which are beyond the control of the student, which could not reasonably have been foreseen or prevented by the student and which would substantially impact on a student’s performance in assessment’. You are strongly encouraged to discuss your extenuating circumstances with your Personal Tutor, Faculty Student Guidance Advisor or other appropriate member of staff. Further information can be found at:

http://www.staffs.ac.uk/assets/extenuating_circumstances_procedure_tcm44-25749.pdf

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9. Feedback on Your Work

9.1 Seven principles of good feedback

Good feedback should:

1. Be an interactive process involving student-tutor and student-student dialogue;2. Facilitate the development of self-assessment and reflection;3. Clarify for students and staff, through dialogue, what good or bad performance

actually is in the assignment or task;4. Be developmental, progressive and transferable to new learning contexts;5. Be ongoing and embedded in the learning process;6. Motivate, build esteem and confidence to support sustainable lifelong learning;7. Support the development of learning groups and communities.

9.2 Coursework and other assessments, excluding examinationsYou will normally receive feedback on all your assessments, other than examinations, within 20 working days following the date of submission of your assessment or actual date of the assessment (in the case of class tests). For some assessments the feedback period will be less than 20 working days. However, it may be the case that the 20 day rule for some assessments cannot be met for justified reasons (for example, modules on which a large number of students are enrolled). However, it is anticipated that this will apply to only a small number of modules on your course and, in those cases, the feedback return period will not exceed 25 days. The anticipated feedback return times for all assessments will be published in your Module Handbooks.

In order to ensure that feedback is provided within 20 days, in most cases, the marks for your work will be provisional and will be subject to final ratification by the appropriate Assessment Board in due course.

9.3 Formal University examinationsFeedback for examinations will always be provided. This feedback can take a variety of forms and be either generic or personalised. At the latest, feedback should be provided at least four weeks before the next examination period.

The University hopes that you will also play your part by ensuring that you collect feedback from the relevant sources as soon as it is available.

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10. External Examiners

As with all universities in the UK, Staffordshire employs external examiners who are specialist in the area you are studying. The majority are drawn from other universities or colleges in the country, although some will also come from industry or other relevant professions. External examiners look at the assignments that are set for you and the work you produce. They are asked to confirm that the standards are appropriate for the level at which you are studying. They attend assessment and course boards and write an annual report for the University which is used as part of the process, (which includes student representatives) of monitoring the quality and standards of your course. You are entitled to see these reports and if you wish to do so you should contact your Faculty office.

External examiner(s) who are responsible for your course are:

External Examiner

Position Institution

Langes Supramaniam

Operations & Supply Chain Management

Robert Gordon University

John Brinkman

General Liverpool Hope University

Shirley Barrett

HRM Ulster University Business School

Jane Keenan Finance University of Worcester and University of Leicester

Dr Julie Robson

Marketing Bournemouth University

NB: It is not appropriate for you to make direct contact with external examiners, in particular regarding your individual performance in assessments. There are other mechanisms you can use if you are unhappy with your results or other aspects of your course, such as the appeal and complaints procedures.

External examiners have been informed that if they are contacted directly by students they should decline to comment and refer the student back to the University.

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11. Personal Tutoring

11.1Personal Tutors - Who are they?

Each student will be assigned a member of academic staff as a personal tutor. The personal tutor will then act as a focus for problems encountered by the students and advise on the best way of tackling them. Whenever possible, the personal tutor will also provide advice on a choice of modules within the course.

Your Personal Tutor is the person you should see if you have problems, or need guidance and support. It is important that you feel reasonably comfortable talking to your personal tutor, as students normally keep the same tutor throughout the year. If, for some reason, you are not happy with the personal tutor allocated, please see the course leader to investigate whether a change can be made.

12. Recognition of Prior Learning

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is the term used when a student uses his or her previous experiences to gain admission to a programme of study; admission to a module; admission at an intermediate stage in a programme (advanced standing); or to gain exemption from part of a programme of study. These previous experiences may be work-based learning, general learning experiences (experiential) or certificated qualifications.

You should normally apply for exemptions or admission with advanced standing through the RPL scheme when you apply for a place on the course, or immediately upon registration for your modules. You will not be allowed to apply for RPL in a module once you have submitted any assessment for that module. If you apply for exemptions or admission with advanced standing through the RPL scheme you may be required to undergo some assessment to determine the relevance of your experiences/qualifications.

Staffordshire University’s RPL scheme can be accessed at:

http://www.staffs.ac.uk/assets/Recognition%20of%20Prior%20Learning%20Scheme%20V2%20(2)_tcm44-79321.pdf

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13. Award Regulations

Your course is regulated by the University’s Academic Award Regulations. These can be accessed at:

http://www.staffs.ac.uk/legal/policies/awardregs/index.jsp

Module Failure - what happens if I fail a module?If you have failed to satisfy the assessment criteria of the module, you will be awarded a fail (0-49% postgraduate). If you have failed to submit any assessment for the module, you will be given a Grade Point N (Fail due to non-submission) for the element(s) of that module and you will only be allowed a further attempt at that element(s) of the module at the discretion of the appropriate Board.

If I fail a module, can I resit it?

(i) If you made an attempt at your assessments at the first attempt:You will only be guaranteed an opportunity to attempt referrals once IF, and only if, you have made an attempt at the assessment(s) on the first occasion unless a claim for Extenuating Circumstances has been successful.

(ii) If you did not make an attempt at your assessments at the first attempt:If you do not submit work or attend assessments at the first attempt, that guarantee of a referral is lost and the appropriate Board will decide whether or not to allow you a referral. In making its decision, the Board may take account of your engagement with that module.

If the Board does allow you a referral(s) and you do not take the referral(s) at the time notified to you by your Faculty/School, no further referral opportunity will be given to you and you may fail the course.

When can I take my resit(s)?In all cases, if you are allowed a referral(s), the referral(s) must be taken at the next resit opportunity. For many students, this will be in August of your year of study but will depend on the nature of the course and the timing of your assessments.

It is your responsibility to make sure that you know when you are required to resit.

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14. Concerns and Complaints

We endeavour through our support systems to deal with any concerns and complaints informally. Within your department, we advise you to talk to your Module Tutor, Course Leader or Personal Tutor as soon as possible. You can also talk to the Faculty Student Guidance Advisor.

If you are still dissatisfied then the University has in place a Complaints Procedure. You can also use the Complaints Procedure if you feel you have been subject to discrimination, harassment, bullying or abuse. For more information contact the Appeals Complaints and Conduct Manager on 01782 294359 or visit:

http://www.staffs.ac.uk/support_depts/info_centre/handbook/conduct/index.jsp

15. Academic Misconduct and Plagiarism

The University and Faculty take the issues of academic dishonesty, plagiarism or cheating very seriously. If you are caught breaking the University’s rules, you can expect to be punished – this might mean failing an assignment, failing a module or even failing your course and being asked to leave the University.

It is vitally important that you understand the rules regarding plagiarism. These can be found at:

http://www.staffs.ac.uk/assets/academic_misconduct_tcm44-26770.pdf

There are several resources available to help you in writing and preparing assignments so that you do not break the rules. You might want to look at the following resources:

http://www.staffs.ac.uk/studyskills

If in doubt, make sure you ask your tutor before you submit work, or arrange to see someone in the Study Skills Centre (located in the library).

16. Equality and Diversity

Staffordshire University is committed to equality of opportunity and diversity: these are part of the core values of the institution. We aim to be an inclusive organisation where everyone has a fair opportunity to fulfil their potential.

At Staffordshire University we recognise that people are unique individuals. We are committed to ensuring that all our students and staff - whatever their background, nationality, cultural heritage, age, race, disability, ethnic origin, gender, sexual orientation, religion, belief, colour, gender identity, skills and experiences - are able to

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study or work in an environment free from discrimination, harassment, bullying and victimisation.

We all have a responsibility to ensure that this happens, and students and staff are expected to behave in a way that promotes a welcoming and inclusive environment for all.

The Students’ Charter sets out the University’s commitment to students and your responsibilities as a student. This can be found at:

http://www.staffs.ac.uk/assets/student_charter_tcm44-26822.pdf

The University also has a behaviour policy to inform students and staff of the behaviour expected of students. This can be found at:

www.staffs.ac.uk/legal/policies/index.jsp

More information, support and advice about any aspect of equality and diversity at Staffordshire University can be obtained from:

http://www.staffs.ac.uk/support_depts/equality/

17. Student Guide

This Course Handbook is supported by information on the Faculty induction website and other resources provided by Central Services.

Faculty webpages: http://www.staffs.ac.uk/business

a2z4u: http://www.staffs.ac.uk/a2z4u

Useful links: http://www.staffs.ac.uk/support_depts/infoservices/studentstaffinfo/

If you are still unable to locate the information you need, please ask at your nearest Information Point.

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