Course structure
You will study the following modules on the Business and Management Pre-Masters programme:
Pre-Masters Skills for English 1 (PSE 1)
This module continues the development of your English level towards the equivalent of 6.5 IELTS and helps you to consolidate a range of wider academic skills such as critical thinking, writing a bibliography, preparation and delivery of an oral presentation and the further development of communication and group working skills.
Research Methods
You are introduced to research methods, their usefulness and limitations, and consider the different sources of data and materials relevant to analysis within your chosen subject area. You also look at the quantitative and qualitative approaches to the collection and interpretation of data.
Data Collection and Interpretation
The emphasis of this module is on the development of statistical techniques in the context of academic research. You look at organising and representing data using an Excel spreadsheet and consider issues around averages and variability, probability and decision-making, sampling and estimation and hypothesis testing.
Business and Management 1 - Operations Management and Organisational Behaviour
You are introduced to the key concepts relating to organisational behaviour including management theory, leadership styles, cultural aspects and the management of change. Operations management sessions look at strategy, performance objectives, job design and planning and control.
Pre-Masters Skills for English 2 (PSE 2)
On completion of this module you will have advanced to the equivalent of 6.5 or 7.0 IELTS and will have developed further your research, referencing and presentation skills. You will be able to read more complex texts and write factual and discursive essays on academic topics.
Analytical Techniques and Problem Solving
During this module you consider the key elements of critical thinking and look at the construction of an academic case or argument. Within your own subject area you look at practical problems and the various techniques used to analyse and present possible solutions to them. These techniques include mathematical approaches, computer modelling, and the more intuitive approaches involving brainstorming, lateral thinking and role playing.
Individual Research Project
The aim of this module is to help you develop and demonstrate your ability to write longer pieces of academic work displaying applied understanding of the subject matter (related to your chosen subject area) and a critical analysis of concepts and materials.
Business and Management 2 - Business Strategy
You use this module to develop your understanding of key models and concepts in the field of business strategy. You look in particular at topics such as the analysis of the industry environment, resource and capability analysis, competitive advantage and corporate, global and diversification strategies.
