Northampton Business School

Postgraduate and Professional Courses

Transforming lives, inspiring change

MSC ACCOUNTING & FINANCE (LEVEL 7) (TOP-UP FROM ACCA / CIMA / AIA / ACA)

The MSc is designed for AIA, ACA, CIPFA, ACCA or CIMA graduates and aims to provide a means by which the continuing professional and personal needs of accounting practitioners may be met.

Accounting & Finance

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“I decided to undertake the MSc Accounting and Finance qualification arising from a partnership agreement with my Professional Body, the Association of International Accountants (AIA).

I chose the distance learning method of study as it gave me an opportunity to study at a high level whilst continuing to operate my Accountancy Practice.

The Northampton Business School lecturers were very supportive and generous with their time and gave excellent advice and guidance, as well as being tolerant of my many requests! They took their time to be as attentive as they could be in order to assist me through periods of numerous competing time demands and, spells of writer’s block!

This course has helped me to formalise concepts and principles that probably I was aware of unconsciously but that have now been integrated by the MSc into a methodology which is professionally and personally useful. I have to say that my ego is delighted to add MSc Accounting and Finance to my business card and Firm’s letterhead.

Studying at Northampton Business School meant that I was able to commence my studies immediately and, that was the primary attraction for me. The course provided long term benefits which will provide me with a more profitable consultancy.”

Christopher R Way MSc , BA, AIA, AFA, Dip Bus Business Development Manager,CRW Accountants Limited, Devon

Course ContentThe course aims to extend and enhance the understanding and competence gained via professional qualification and to enhance the ability of students to think strategically about management and organisational change. This top-up course may be taken by part-time study in Northampton or by distance learning worldwide. Distance learning students are supported online.

The module on ‘Managing Strategic Change’ takes an in-depth look at both leading edge strategic issues and change processes. The module covers the business tools, techniques and concepts used in scanning the business environment for potential changes, analysing the potential implications of differing scenarios, strategies and processes before developing responses to potential changes. ‘Research Methods’ is taught and covers the introduction to research, types of research methodology, formulating and planning a research project, data collection and analysis and presentation of research findings.Following successful completion of the taught modules and research methods, members undertake a dissertation related to an aspect of strategic financial significance for the organisation.

Special Course Features• Convertsprofessional qualifications into an MSc • Networkingopportunitieswith other professionals • Distancelearningissupported worldwide by e-learning

Typical Modules• ManagingStrategicChange• Dissertation&Research Methods

Entry RequirementsApplicants should be fully qualified (by examination) members of ACA, ACCA, CIPFA, AIA, CIMA or equivalent.

AttendanceThe complete programme runs over one year distance learning.

AssessmentThe course has a mixture of assessment involving essays, reports and examinations, plus a dissertation.

Career OpportunitiesThe programme is concerned with broadening your professional knowledge and aims to provide practitioners with the necessary skills to contribute to the effective management and development of organisations. As such, it will enhance your professional and career development.

Distance Learning

Accounting & Finance

MSC ACCOUNTING & FINANCE (LEVEL 7) (TOP-UP FROM ACCA / CIMA / AIA / ACA)

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POSTGRADUATE CERTIFICATE/ MSC IT SERVICE MANAGEMENT (LEVEL 7)

The course is aimed at students who wish to develop a career within the many areas of IT Service Management including Design, Delivery and Support, Project, Change and Transition Management. Exemption for ITIL® qualifications is available. Information Sciences recognises the importance of career-centred skills and modules are aligned to ‘Skills Framework For the Information Age’ SFIA®.

Business Computing & IT

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“My line manager was the one who originally suggested the distance learning MSc IT Service Management (ITSM) course to me after hearing about the University of Northampton.

Based in Rome and having to travel all over the world, I was initially worried that I would have to give up employment to study. However, as the course is delivered by distance learning it meant that all of the course materials were online so I could study wherever, and whenever, I was able.

Working in IT, this course was ideal as much of the content directly related to my job.

The course has enabled me to think in new ways and I now have a greater knowledge of the subject field and a more in-depth understanding. In fact, I have already implemented ideas gained from this course into my job. With so many on-going work projects this qualification has given me a structure, for how best to do things. It has enabled me to learn while I work.

Even at a distance, the lecturers are always on hand to help me, either via phone or email, and have allowed me some flexibility when needed. Between my full time job and studying, my time management skills have definitely been put to test!

Since starting the course I have visited the UK on a couple of occasions and have used the opportunity to sit in on a couple of the classes as well as meet up with the lecturers. It was nice to put a face to the name! I also met up with the Course Leader, Susan Bailey, at the itSMF conference this year and after discussing my dissertation with her, I now feel able , with the support of the IS team, to complete this major piece of work earlier than expected.

Gaining this qualification will really help me with my career prospects and I am already planning to progress onto a PhD once I’ve completed.

I have recommended the course and Northampton Business School at The University of Northampton to both friends and colleagues.”

Mark BrownIT Project ManagerUnited Nations World Food Programme

Course ContentThis course has been designed to meet the need for competent and qualified staff that can enable organisations to maximise the value of information communications technology and IT services. It is suitable for any student wishing to move into IT service management, and is particularly relevant to business strategic planning, service delivery and support, continuity planning, application and infrastructure management, quality management, and project and change management.

It is now recognised that information is the most important strategic resource that any organisation has to manage, and that this information can not be managed or exploited if ICT systems and services are below the required quality. The emergence of a global body itSMF to ensure the adherence of quality and standards in the provision of IT services underpins the importance of IT service management and the quality of staff employed within this profession.

This course addresses the need to understand the responsibilities, components and opportunities for IT service management; an area of expanding job opportunities and skill shortages in the modern world of business computing and service delivery. The rationale for the course is based on the recognition that the effectiveness of all IT services is a vital aspect to the prosperity of any organisation. The course embraces good practice, and by continual reassessment, ensures all material is relevant to today’s computing and management expectations.

The course encompasses IT service management through a series of progressive units developing the student’s knowledge from fundamental concepts, through to units addressing IS strategy, management information, quality management, application development, infrastructure, service support and delivery, continuity planning, people and operational issues of implementing IT Service Management Best Practice, ISO 20000 and ITIL®.

Special Course Features• PerfectcourseforITstudents wishing to move into IT service management • ITservicemanagementhas expanding job opportunities

Typical ModulesPostgraduate Certificate Stage• ImplementingServiceManagement• ProjectandChangeManagement• QualityandITServiceProvision

Postgraduate Diploma Stage• InformationSystems Development • NetworkandInfrastructure Management • StrategicInformationSystemsand QualityManagement

MSc Stage• Dissertation

Entry RequirementsCandidates will normally hold a recognised first or second class honours degree (or equivalent), or a postgraduate qualification for which a degree or HND qualification was a necessary entry

requirement. Applicants with relevant work experience in the IT field and related professional qualifications (i.e. ITIL®) will be considered on an individual basis. Applicants with professional qualifications may be eligible for exemptions.

AttendanceThree years distance learning.

AssessmentThe course has a mixture of assessment involving practical work, essays, reports based on real-world provision, case studies, portfolios, oral presentations as well as examinations. The emphasis is on assessment by coursework.

Career OpportunitiesGraduates from this course have excellent career prospects in the field of IT service management. They are equipped with the skills for outsourcing, IT and business strategic planning, service delivery and support, continuity planning, application and infrastructure management. Graduates are prepared for employment in all areas of service management from help desk through to second and third level work in IT support. They have the knowledge and expertise to lead projects such as outsourcing management, contingency planning, strategic alignment, implementing continuous improvement, reducing costs, project and change management.

Distance Learning

Business Computing & IT

POSTGRADUATE CERTIFICATE/ MSC IT SERVICE MANAGEMENT (LEVEL 7)

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MA HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT (TOP-UP FROM CIPD DIPLOMA) (LEVEL 7)

The MA is designed for Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) graduates holding the Postgraduate Diploma and aims to provide a means by which the continuing professional and personal needs of human resource practitioners may be met.

Human Resource Management

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Course ContentThe programme aims to extend the understanding and competence gained via CIPD professional qualifications to enhance the ability of students to think strategically about management and organisational change.

This top-up course may be taken by distance learning world-wide. Distance learning students are supported by an online virtual environment. The programme is designed to broaden your specialist knowledge gained at professional level. In particular the module on ‘Managing Strategic Change’ takes an in-depth look at both leading edge strategic issues and change processes. The module covers the business tools, techniques and concepts used in scanning the business environment for potential changes, analysing the potential implications of differing scenarios, strategies and processes before developing responses to potential changes.

Following successful completion of the modules course members undertake a HRM dissertation related to an aspect of strategic significance for their organisation. ‘Research methods covers the introduction to research, types of research methodology, formulating and planning a research project, data collection and analysis and presentation of research findings.

Special Course Features• ConvertstheCIPDDiplomaintoan MA/HRM• Networkingopportunitieswithother professionals• Distancelearningworld-wide supported e-learning

Typical Modules• ManagingStrategicChange• Dissertation&ResearchMethods

Entry RequirementsApplicants should have successfully completed the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) Diploma.

AttendanceThe complete programme runs over one year. Start dates for the distance learning programme are either September or January.

AssessmentStudents complete a variety of assessments including individual written assignments, a group assignment / project, and reports as well as the dissertation. The type of assessments taken are reviewed regularly and subject to change. Students are provided with written feedback for all work completed.

Career OpportunitiesThis programme is aimed at those who are already working within the HR profession at managerial, senior advisor or (occasionally) director level. The skills and knowledge gained should enable successful programme members to develop and apply strategic thinking and as such assist with career progression where such skills are in demand.

Distance Learning

Human Resource Management

MA HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT (TOP-UP FROM CIPD DIPLOMA) (LEVEL 7)

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POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA IN MANAGEMENT STUDIES (DMS) (LEVEL 7)

To develop management expertise through the examination and application of modern management concepts and techniques.

Management

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Course ContentThe programme is designed not only to give students a thorough understanding of business and management processes, but also to enable them to develop their effectiveness as a practising manager.

Normally each stage is taken over one academic year. You are able to leave with a qualification at any stage on successful completion of the appropriate modules should you decide not to continue.

Special Course Features• Allowsmanagerstheflexibilitytostudy at a time, place and pace that suits them• Onlinematerialforeachmodule studied distance learning which guides students through the topic and which contains a number of self assessment exercises and recommended reading• Therequiredtextbooksforeach management module is provided as part of the programme and within its costs

Typical ModulesPostgraduate Certificate in Management:• AccountingandFinanceforManagers• Marketing:Principlesand Management• PeopleinOrganisations• TheEffectiveManagerPostgraduate Diploma in Management Studies (DMS):• AccountingandFinanceforManagers• ManagementProject• ManagingOperations• OrganisationalStrategy

Entry RequirementsCandidates should normally either hold an honours degree from a UK (or equivalent) university, or possess a recognised graduate professional qualification. They should normally have two years work experience at supervisory level or above.

HNC/HND and other Level 5 qualifications such as CMS/ILM/CMI will be considered along with your management experience.

AttendanceThis course is run on a distance learning basis, over two years.

AssessmentMainly coursework, assignment-based.

Career OpportunitiesThis qualification will enhance the career opportunities of any manager. A highly regarded qualification by employers it reflectsthehighdegreeofdemandbothin terms of entry qualification and the rigour and workload associated with the course.

Distance Learning

Management

POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA IN MANAGEMENT STUDIES (DMS) (LEVEL 7)

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MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (MBA) (TOP-UP FROM EDEXCEL, DMS, ABE, NCC, ICM) (LEVEL 7)

This is a distance learning programme designed as a top-up to the MBA for holders of the Diploma in Management Studies (DMS) and other Level 7 Postgraduate Diplomas.

Management

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Course ContentThe MBA is the leading internationally recognised qualification for practising managers. This is a distance learning programme designed as a top-up to the MBA for holders of Level 7 Management and Ledership qualifications such as the Diploma in Management Studies, ABE, NCC, ICM.

The programme has been designed to enhance the knowledge and skills developed on the DMS. As a Masters degree, this course is demanding both in terms of the rigour and workload associated with the course; so will require commitment and dedication from participants. The MBA enables participants to consider issues in an organisation wide or total business context. Skills in analysing business and organisational problems are emphasised.

The MBA top-up programme runs separately but alongside the now well-established part-time / distance learning MBA course and is available only to those candidates who have satisfactorily completed a DMS or equivalent qualification. For those who have completed a professional Level 7 management award, the wider experience gained by practising management and the opportunity forreflectionandconsiderationofthe relevance and value of academic perspectives, will be particularly valued. The focus of the programme is in developing holistic strategic thinking within an organisation. The ability to

recognise and exploit opportunities and the development of strategies and plans to cope with managing change are addressed. Course members will be instructed in management research techniques appropriate to Master’s degree level learning to enable them to fulfil the demands of the course assessment scheme and, in particular, satisfactorily complete a dissertation.

Special Course Features• Designedtobuildonlearningfrom Level 7 professional management qualifications• Extendtheacademicreachof candidates• E-learningandbookssupportdistance learning• Apersonalsupervisorisassignedto you during dissertation.

Typical Modules• ManagingStrategicChange• ResearchMethodsandDissertation

Entry RequirementsApplicants will normally be expected to hold a Level 7 (postgraduate) Diploma in Management or Leadership to the value of 100 or more UK Credits, for example: • AdvancedProfessionalDiplomafrom Edexcel (formally the DMS)• PostgraduateDiplomainBusiness Management from the ABE (Association of Business Executives), NCC or ICM

Applicants with Level 7 qualifications valued at less than 100 UK credits may be able to join the top-up programme but would have to study additional credit.

AttendanceNormally one year distance learning. September and January

AssessmentCoursework assignments, and a dissertation.

Career OpportunitiesWith a sound knowledge of the theories and techniques of management and increased confidence in dealing with other management professionals, graduates’ management competences will be significantly improved on completion leading to enhanced career progression opportunities.

Distance Learning

Management

MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (MBA) (TOP-UP FROM EDEXCEL, DMS, ABE, NCC, ICM) (LEVEL 7)

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MASTER OF BUSINESS LEADERSHIP (MBL)

The MBL is intended as a developmental experience that inspires and engages participants in how to develop their leadership approach and philosophy for the purpose of sustainable development.

Management

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Course ContentThe course provides a rigorous education in the concepts and techniques of business and management. From this base are developed the skills and analytical tools of relevance to a senior manager, enabling such managers to perform effectively within their organisations and predict potential issues. Of key significance will be encouraging participants to perceive their organisations holistically enabling strategic issues to be identified, analysed and appropriate plans implemented. The course seeks to enhance the ability to learn and acquire new leadership skills including the ability to critically evaluate appropriate academic literature. Similarly participants will be encouraged to identify their personal continuing learning and development needs beyond the provisions of the course through theirabilitytocriticallyreflectuponissues impinging upon their personal circumstances.

Special Course FeaturesThe aims for the MBL programme are as follows to:• Provideastimulatingandintellectually demanding leadership development programme to managers from private, public and third sector organisations.

• Enhancetheparticipant’sabilityto apply knowledge, skill and analytical tools to enable them to perform effectively as leaders.

In addition to the above, the course seeks to provide a stimulating and intellectually demanding Leadership Development Programme of value to senior, or potential senior managers in private, public and third sector organisations.

Typical Modules• Module1:BusinessFundamentalsfor Leaders• Module2:LeadingBusinessina Global Society• Module3:LeadershipCapabilities• Module4:In-companyLeadership/ Change Project.

Entry Requirements• ApplicantsforthepostgraduateMBL awards are normally expected to have achieved a first or second class honours degree or Post Graduate Diploma, at a UK University, or equivalent. Recognition of Prior Learning assessed on a case-by- case basis, may be granted to selected applicants who have no formal qualifications but who have at least 10-15 years of relevant management and leadership experience.

•ApplicantsfortheMBLmusthave10 15 years managerial and/or leadership experience.• Submissionofapersonalessay(ina word processed document) addressing three critical questions (approximately 200-250 words per each question), will be required.•Haverecommendationfromemployer or supervisor.

AttendanceThe delivery of teaching in blended terms will adopt three approaches:• Concentratedperiodsoftwoday teaching blocks (Thursday evening until Saturday evening) every six weeks.• Directedlearningactivitiesviatheweb• Selfdirectedlearningresourcesalso delivered via the web

AssessmentProject work, portfolios, presentations and group work

Career OpportunitiesWill enable career progression and promotion to senior levels of management

Blended Learning

Management

MASTER OF BUSINESS LEADERSHIP (MBL)

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MA MARKETING (LEVEL 7) (TOP-UP FROM CIM PROFESSIONAL POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA)

The MA is designed for holders of the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) Professional Postgraduate Diploma and aims to provide a means by which the continuing professional and personal needs of marketing practitioners may be met.

Marketing

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Course ContentThe course aims to extend the understanding and competence gained via professional qualification, and to enhance the ability of students to think strategically about management and organisational change. This top-up course may be taken by distance learning worldwide. Distance learning students are supported by e-learning material and an online virtual learning environment.

The top-up programme consists of two modules and is designed to broaden your specialist knowledge gained at the professional level. The module on ‘Managing Strategic Change’ takes an in-depth look at both leading edge strategic issues and change processes. The module covers the business tools, techniques and concepts used in scanning the business environment for potential changes, analysing the potential implications of differing scenarios strategies and processes before developing responses to potential changes.

The Marketing Dissertation and Research Methods module extends your knowledge and understanding of methodological issues, leading to the production of a research proposal. The dissertation gives you the opportunity to complete a substantial piece of independent research on a topic of strategic significance for the organisation.

Special Course Features• Convertsprofessionalqualifications into an MA• Networkingopportunitieswithother professionals• Distancelearningissupported worldwide by e-learning

Typical Modules• ManagingStrategicChange• MarketingdissertationandResearch Methods

Entry RequirementsApplicants must have successfully completed the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) Professional Postgraduate Diploma.

AttendanceThe complete programme runs over one year distance learning. Course starts in September and January.

AssessmentThe course is assessed by reports, examination and a dissertation.

Career OpportunitiesThe programme is concerned with broadening your professional qualifications and aims to provide practitioners with the necessary skills to contribute to the effective management and development of organisations. As such, it will enhance your professional development.

Distance Learning

Management

MA MARKETING (LEVEL 7) (TOP-UP FROM CIM PROFESSIONAL POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA)

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Park CampusBoughton Green RoadNorthamptonNN2 7AL

T 01604 892036E business@northampton.ac.ukW www.northampton.ac.uk/professional

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