This module explores the nature and complexity of organisations and introduces the functional specialisms of people management. The development of management theory is explored, which will encourage you to contrast Taylorism/Fordism and Human Relations approaches as groundwork for future studies. The challenges of organisational behaviour will be covered through class-based exercises on topics such as leadership, motivation, group formation, behaviour and managing change.

The core aspects of operations and processes that organisations use in delivering goods and services in order to create customer value and achieve strategic organisational objectives will be explored in this module. You'll be able to understand how to build resilience factors into operations and process design, and understand the different elements of operations and processes that are connected and integrated to improve business performance. You'll also be able to discover, select and apply appropriate operations and process tools to analyse and solve various operations and process-related problems.

You will be introduced to the role and formation of strategic financial objectives for an organisation, the measurement of current and forecast performance, variations in economic and business factors and alternative financial strategies. You'll also apply a range of theories to examine, evaluate and recommend alternative courses of action in response to operational challenges, including long- and short-term financing for organisations, risk factors and stakeholder priorities, as well as consider the importance of non-financial requirements relating to procurement and supply chain. There will be a focus on skills development and application of theory, including problem identification and problem-solving, financial analysis and reporting, consequence chain analysis, pathway identification and evaluation. Target setting and formation of objectives, measurement of performance, assessment of viability and action planning will also be looked at.

The essential elements of marketing mix strategies; product, price, place and promotion will be analysed and you'll learn to distinguish between and plan for product and service-orientated organisations in both business-to-consumer and business-to-business contexts.You will develop the strategic practical knowledge of marketing communication tools, such as advertising, public relations and direct marketing and the deployment of these tools in both conventional and digital media environments.

A range of topics will be covered where you will understand the complexities of conducting business across borders. You'll be introduced to the environmental factors that impact international business decisions and operations and will learn about the various forms of international market entry strategies and the impact of environmental factors on: Global trade, finance and investment, the role of multinational corporations, exchange rates, exports/imports and the ethical and social responsibility implications of international business practices will be explored. Throughout the module, you'll develop critical thinking and analytical skills as you apply theoretical and practical knowledge to real-world challenges in the field of international business.

The introduction to the core aspects of Project Management and the processes involved in planning, creating a project plan, managing. controlling, coordinating and closing a project will be looked at. Topics in this module include the selection and justification of a range of tools/techniques/methodologies required for professional planning, implementing projects and evaluating associated benefits/costs. The challenges of project organisation structures and resource scheduling will also be addressed. The actual development of a project plan will encourage you to discover the principles of client management, as well as to learn how to build effective project teams and leadership capability while also providing an excellent skills base for the workplace.

This module aims to build knowledge of the processes underpinning innovation. Your entrepreneurial mindsets will be developed and you'll be introduced to the main frameworks related to processes, strategies and sources of innovation as well as new trends in innovation, such as social innovation. The module will also help you learn about the role of creativity in problem-solving and the application of design thinking to different business tasks.

The importance of sustainability and responsible business practices cannot be overstated in today’s rapidly changing global business environment. You'll explore the key concepts and principles of sustainability, including environmental, social and economic sustainability and the role of business in addressing sustainability challenges. You'll also gain an understanding of the principles and practices of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and how companies can create value for all stakeholders.

You will be asked to critically analyse and present findings of a business and management issue in the form of a preliminary literature review. You will have to address a problem definition in the light of a business context while evaluating the potential client’s needs/benefits. You will learn how to negotiate the project scope, and design, as well as identify the research aims and specific objectives. Delving into the methodology, including selecting and justifying appropriate research and data collection methods, this module will focus on preparing you to write a research proposal.

This module extends the Research module by focusing on an in-depth investigation of real-life business issues. You will critically analyse and present these findings in the form of a project proposal. The research project will build your in-depth knowledge and understanding in core subject areas depending on your area of interest as well as the practical application of methods and techniques relevant to your subject. 

This module allows you to develop, practice and demonstrate skills relevant to your programme of study in a professional work environment.

You must select one of the following two options for your Professional Placement.

Industry Placement

Spend a year working full-time in industry. You will have an opportunity to apply to a range of advertised placements, which will offer you the chance to develop your knowledge and professional skills in a professional workplace setting. Although we cannot guarantee placements for students, we will provide you with practical support and advice on how to find and secure your placement.

Research Project

Develop your research and academic skills by working as a member of a research team being led by one of our leading researchers. Experience working as part of a research team in an academic setting. Ideal for those who are interested in a career in academic or industrial research or consultancy.