School: Hertfordshire Business School

Title of Programme: MSc Global Economy and Business Institutions Programme Code: BSGEBI

Programme Specification

Start Date: September 2013

Date of Approval: 19 July 2012

Deputy Associate Dean (Academic Quality): Denise Ball

Signature

Programme Specification MSc Global Economy and Business Institutions

This Programme Specification (PS) is designed for prospective students, enrolled students, academic staff and potential employers. It provides a concise summary of the main features of the programme and the intended learning outcomes that a typical student might reasonably be expected to achieve and demonstrate if he/she takes full advantage of the learning opportunities that are provided. More detailed information on the teaching, learning and assessment methods, learning outcomes and content for each module can be found in Definitive Module Documents (DMDs) and Module Guides.

Section 1
Awarding Institution/Body Teaching Institution University/partner campuses Programme accredited by Final Award All Final Award titles University of Hertfordshire University of Hertfordshire de Havilland campus Not applicable MSc MSc Global Economy and Business Institutions PgDip Global Economy and Business Institutions PgCert Global Economy and Business Institutions MSc Business and Management Studies 7

FHEQ level of award

A. Programme Rationale
This research-informed Masters programme is designed to recruit students who have a solid background in economics/management and wish to extend their knowledge and understanding of institutional and organisational theories, apply that knowledge to the analysis of global economic issues and develop skills and capacity for policy making. A distinctive feature of the programme is that it builds on the internationally recognised research expertise of members of the Group for Research in Organisational Evolution (GROE) and the Global Economy and Business Research Unit (GEBRU), both based at Hertfordshire Business School. The structure of the programme is designed to enable students to develop excellent research skills and apply them in the programme subject areas. The first semester provides an intensive study of the core areas of institutional and political economy analysis, as well as research methodology. The second semester builds on those areas to expose students to their main themes of application, with a focus on policy, development and contemporary global business issues. The final semester concludes with an individual dissertation. The knowledge and skills acquired through this programme will equip graduates to meet the demands of doctoral studies, as well as of careers in various types of public and private sector organisations, international organisations, development agencies and research institutes.

B. Educational Aims of the Programme

The programme has been devised in accordance with the University's general educational aims of programmes of study as set out in UPR TL01. Additionally this programme aims to:

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Provide students with a programme of study that develops the knowledge and understanding, as well as the academic skills, required to analyse key elements of global economic and business issues; Provide students with the knowledge and skills required to carry out research at masters level; Equip students for the demands of doctoral studies in the field of institutional economics and political economy; Equip students for careers in a wide range of business and research organisations.

C. Intended Learning Outcomes

The programme provides opportunities for students to develop and demonstrate knowledge and understanding, skills and other attributes listed in the table below. The programme outcomes were devised with reference to the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (2008), and relate to the typical student. Additionally, the SEEC Credit Level Descriptors for Further and Higher Education 2010 have been used as a guiding framework for curriculum design. The sub-sections below are aligned to the classification of knowledge, understanding and skills described in the Quality Assurance Agency Subject Benchmark Statement for Masters Degrees in Business and Management. Knowledge and Understanding of: A1-Institutional and political economy approaches, and their interrelationship with relevant disciplines and subject areas A2-Contemporary policy, development and global business issues, informed by cutting edge research in institutional economics and political economy A3-Methodological approaches and techniques applicable to research in the specialist subject area Intellectual skills - able to: B1-Analyse, synthesise and critically evaluate scholarship in institutional economics, political economy and related areas of study B2-Evaluate approaches and methodologies, develop critiques of them and, where appropriate, propose new hypotheses B3-Analyse, synthesise and critically evaluate evidence/data B4- Design and/or undertake research to address significant areas of theory Teaching/learning methods & strategies Acquisition of knowledge and understanding is through a combination of lectures (A1-A3), seminars (A1-A3) and workshops (A1-A3). Throughout, the learner is encouraged to undertake independent study both to supplement and consolidate what is being taught/learnt and to broaden their individual knowledge and understanding of the subject. Assessment Knowledge and understanding A1-A3 are summatively assessed through in-course assessments, end of semester exams and the individual dissertation.

Teaching/learning methods & strategies Intellectual skills (B1-B4) are developed through the methods and strategies outlined in section A above. Throughout, the learner is encouraged to develop intellectual skills further by independent study.

Assessment Intellectual skills B1 to B4 are summatively assessed through in-course assessments, end of semester exams and the individual dissertation.

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and/or practice within institutional and political economy approaches, and related areas Practical skills - able to: C1-Identify sources of relevant data and information C2-Identify and/or apply a range of qualitative and/or quantitative research methods and techniques to collect and analyse data as appropriate C3-Use information and knowledge effectively: scanning, organizing and synthesising data in order to abstract meaning from information and share knowledge Transferable skills - able to: D1-Communicate effectively complex ideas and arguments, both orally and in writing, using a range of media D2-Perform effectively within team environments D3-Use effectively communication and information technology D4-Reflect on practice and experience D5-Demonstrate high personal effectiveness: critical self-awareness and self-management; time management; sensitivity to diversity in people and different situations D6-Take responsibility for own learning and continuing professional development

Teaching/learning methods & strategies Practical skills are developed throughout the programme by a range of activities, using a variety of teaching and learning methods. These include workshops, seminars and presentations. Work is carried out both individually and in groups. Throughout, the learner is encouraged to consolidate the development of practical skills by independent study through the use of sources and facilities available in the Learning Resources Centres. Teaching/learning methods & strategies Transferable skills are developed through the activities carried out during and in preparation for lectures, workshops and seminars (D1-D6), dissertation work (D1, D3, D4, D5, D6), group work (D2), oral presentations and essays (D1, D3). Throughout, the learner is encouraged to develop transferable skills by maintaining a record of evidence and completing a personal development plan.

Assessment Practical skills C1-C3 are summatively assessed through a range of assignments built into taught modules, such as essays and oral presentations, and through the dissertation.

Assessment Transferable skills D1 to D4 are summatively assessed through a range of individual and group assignments built into the curriculum as outlined in A, B and C above. D5-6 are summatively assessed through reflective logs. Learners personal development plans are formatively assessed through regular review.

D. Programme Structures, Features, Levels, Modules, and Credits

The programme is offered in full-time (1 year) mode and leads to the award of MSc Global Economy and Business Institutions. Although the programme has no prescribed part-time route, it is possible for individuals to follow an individually tailored programme of study at a part-time rate. Entry is with an honours degree (at least 2:1 or above) in Economics or related disciplines. Intake is in Semester A (September).
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Programme Structure The programme structure and progression information below (Table 1a and 1b) are provided for the award. Interim awards are identified in Table 1b. The Programme Learning Outcomes detailed above are developed and assessed through the constituent modules. Table 2 (in Section 2) identifies where each learning outcome is assessed. Table 1a Outline Programme Structure Mode of study Full-Time Entry point Semester A Compulsory Modules Module Title
Entrepreneurs, Firms and Markets Institutions, Structures and Evolution Research Methodology (MSc GEBI) Varieties of Capitalism Contemporary Debates in the Global Economy Corporate Governance, Law and Society Global Finance and Stability Political Economy of Development in a Global Context Dissertation (MSc GEBI)

Module Code
7BSP1148 7BSP1149 7BSP1150 7BSP1151 7BSP1152 7BSP1153 7BSP1154 7BSP1155 7BSP1156

Credit Points
15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 60

% examination
40 40 0 0 0 0 40 40 0

% coursework
60 60 100 100 100 100 60 60 100

Semester
A A A A B B B B C

The award of MSc Global Economy and Business Institutions requires 180 credit points passed at Level 7, including the Masters dissertation. Table 1b Final and interim awards available The programme provides the following final and interim awards: Award Postgraduate Certificate of Higher Education in Global Economy and Business Institutions Postgraduate Diploma of Higher Education in Global Economy and Business Institutions MSc Global Economy and Business Institutions MSc Business and Management Studies* Minimum requirements 60 credit points at level 7 from taught modules Available at end of (normally): 1-2 Semesters

120 credit points at level 7

2-3 Semesters

180 credit points at level 7 from taught modules plus the dissertation 180 credit points at level 7

3 Semesters 3 Semesters

*To be awarded only when students have not passed one or more of the compulsory taught modules and have picked up additional credits from other HBS postgraduate modules. Masters and Diploma awards can be made with Distinction or with Commendation where criteria as described in UPR AS14 (Structure and assessment regulations Undergraduate and taught postgraduate programmes) and the students' handbook are met.

E. Support for students and their learning

Students are supported by; A Programme Tutor
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Personal Academic Tutors Student Support and Guidance Office (SSG) Academic Skills Unit ( ASU) Student representatives on the Programme Committee A designated Programme Administrator Overseas orientation StudyNet, a versatile on-line interactive intranet and learning environment Access to extensive digital and print collections of information resources Attractive modern study environments in Learning Resources Centres A substantial Student Centre that provides advice on issues such as finance, University regulations, legal matters, accommodation, international student support etc. Office of the Dean of Students, incorporating chaplaincy, counselling and nursery Medical Centre A mathematics drop-in centre English support classes A Disabled Student Co-ordinator An Equal Opportunities Officer The Students Union Careers and Placement Services for all current students and graduates

F. Entry requirements
The entry requirements for the programme are: An honours degree from a UK university of at least 2:1 classification, in Economics or related disciplines, or The equivalent of the above from a recognised overseas university In addition, students for whom English is not their first language must produce evidence of their English language proficiency. The standard required is a score of 6.5 or above on the British Council's IELTS test, or an equivalent score on a test recognised by the University of Hertfordshire. This requirement will be waived if the student has successfully completed an undergraduate degree at a university in the United Kingdom, or another country acceptable to the University of Hertfordshire, where study was in English and the student was based in that universitys home country during study. For all students a required component of the admissions process is an interview. This will be carried out face-to-face or via video conferencing. The programme is subject to the University's Principles, Policies, Regulations and Procedures for the Admission of Students to Undergraduate and Taught Postgraduate Programmes and will take account of University policy and guidelines for assessing accredited prior certificated learning (APCL) and accredited prior experiential learning (APEL).

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Section 2
Programme management
JACS code(s) Modes of study Intakes Relevant QAA subject benchmarking group Date of validation/last periodic review Date of production/ last revision of PS Relevant intake School Course (i.e. pathway) details

L100
F/T A Masters Degrees in Business and Management 21 June 2012 04 July 2012 level 7 entering September 2013 Hertfordshire Business School

Course (i.e. Pathway Point) Titles

MSc Global Economy and Business Institutions

Course (i.e. Pathway Point) Codes

GEBIF1

The programme is managed by: Head of School A Programme Tutor, who is responsible for the day-to-day management of the programme An Admissions Tutor, with specific responsibilities for open days and selection A designated Programme Administrator to deal with day-to-day administration associated with the programme Module Leaders, who are responsible for individual modules A Programme Committee, the membership of which includes student representatives and key members of HBS staff

Programme-specific assessment regulations

The programme is compliant with the University's generic assessment regulations (Structure and assessment regulations Undergraduate and taught postgraduate programmes, UPR AS14) with the exception of those listed below, which have been specifically approved by the University: None

Other sources of information

Definitive Module Documents Module Guides Student Handbook University of Hertfordshire Course website: http://www.herts.ac.uk/courses/ QAA Benchmark Statement website: http://www.qaa.ac.uk/ASSURINGSTANDARDSANDQUALITY/SUBJECTGUIDANCE/Pages/Subject-benchmark-statements.aspx The Framework for Higher Education Qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, 2008: http://www.qaa.ac.uk/Publications/InformationAndGuidance/Pages/The-framework-for-highereducation-qualifications-in-England-Wales-and-Northern-Ireland.aspx SEEC Credit Level Descriptors for Further and Higher Education 2010: http://www.seec.org.uk/academic-credit/seec-credit-level-descriptors-2010 External Quality Review report website: http://www.qaa.ac.uk/InstitutionReports/Pages/default.aspx UNISTATS website: http://www.unistats.com/ University of Hertfordshire Academic Quality Office website:
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(StudyNet

Staff

Department Lists

Academic Quality Office)

Structure & Assessment Regulations - Undergraduate & Taught Postgraduate Programmes, UPR AS14: http://sitem.herts.ac.uk/secreg/upr/AS14.htm Learning and Teaching Policy and General Educational Aims, UPR TL01: http://sitem.herts.ac.uk/secreg/upr/TL01.htm Admissions - Undergraduate & Taught Postgraduate Students, UPR SA03: http://sitem.herts.ac.uk/secreg/upr/SA03.htm Academic Quality, UPR AS17: http://sitem.herts.ac.uk/secreg/upr/AS17.htm Index of UPRs for students: http://sitem.herts.ac.uk/secreg/upr_azlist_info.htm

Other information relevant to the programme

The Business School was awarded confidence in the Institutional Audit conducted in 2009. This programme is unique as no other institution provides a course with similar title and content. The curriculum emphasises theory and practice, and combines historical and contemporary developments. A further appeal of the course is related to the international profile of the academic cadre that was engaged in the development and will be delivering the programme.

University policies relevant to the Programme

The University undertakes to use all reasonable endeavours to deliver, assess and administer this programme in accordance with this Programme Specification. At the same time it is recognised that it is in the nature of academic developments that changes, for example to the structure, curriculum, and assessment of a programme may be necessary in order to ensure that the programme remains up to date, in response to issues raised as a result of on-going monitoring and evaluation, and/or in order to conform to new regulatory requirements imposed by this institution, by professional or statutory bodies, or by national or governmental bodies. The programme operates within the guidelines and policies relating to equal opportunities and environmental issues which may be agreed from time to time by the Board of Governors and/or the Academic Board of the University. Where the programme is offered in collaboration with another institution these policies and guidelines will normally be those of the partner institution. The programme operates in accordance with the University's Regulations Governing Studies Involving the Use of Human Subjects (UPR RE01) agreed from time to time by the Academic Board of the University. However, where the programme is offered in collaboration with another institution (for example through a franchise arrangement for all or part of the programme) then specific approval must be obtained from the University for the operation of the programme within ethical guidelines prepared by the partner institution. The partner institution will be responsible for all insurance liability in connection with the observance of ethical guidelines.

Signed .... Chair of Faculty Academic Quality Enhancement Committee

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Date19.07.12..

If you would like this information in an alternative format please contact: Dr. Francesca Gagliardi (f.gagliardi@herts.ac.uk)

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MSc Global Economy and Business Institutions

Table 2: Development of Programme Learning Outcomes in the Constituent Modules

This map identifies where the programme learning outcomes are assessed in the constituent modules. It provides (i) an aid to academic staff in understanding how individual modules contribute to the programme aims (ii) a checklist for quality control purposes and (iii) a means to help students monitor their own learning, personal and professional development as the programme progresses.
Programme Learning Outcomes (as identified in section 1 and the following page) Knowledge & Intellectual Skills Practical Skills Transferable Skills Understanding Module Title Entrepreneurs, Firms and Markets Institutions, Structures and Evolution Research Methodology (MSc GEBI) Varieties of Capitalism Contemporary Debates in the Global Economy Corporate Governance, Law and Society Global Finance and Stability Political Economy of Development in a Global Context Dissertation (MSc GEBI) Module Code 7BSPXXXX 7BSPXXXX 7BSPXXXX 7BSPXXXX 7BSPXXXX 7BSPXXXX 7BSPXXXX 7BSPXXXX 7BSPXXXX
A1 A2 A3 B1 B2 B3 B4 C1 C2 C3 D1 D2 D3 D4 D5 D6

Key: Learning Outcome which is assessed as part of the module

Key to Programme Learning Outcomes Knowledge and Understanding A1. Institutional and political economy approaches, and their interrelationship with relevant disciplines and subject areas A2. Contemporary policy, development and global business issues, informed by cutting edge research in institutional economics and political economy A3. Methodological approaches and techniques applicable to research in the specialist subject area Practical Skills C1. Identify sources of relevant data and information C2. Identify and/or apply a range of qualitative and/or quantitative research methods and techniques to collect and analyse data as appropriate C3. Use information and knowledge effectively: scanning, organizing and synthesising data in order to abstract meaning from information and share knowledge

Intellectual Skills B1. Analyse, synthesise and critically evaluate scholarship in institutional economics, political economy and related areas of study B2. Evaluate approaches and methodologies, develop critiques of them and, where appropriate, propose new hypotheses B3. Analyse, synthesise and critically evaluate evidence/data B4. Design and/or undertake research to address significant areas of theory and/or practice within institutional and political economy approaches, and related areas

Transferable Skills D1. Communicate effectively complex ideas and arguments, both orally and in writing, using a range of media D2. Perform effectively within team environments

D3. Use effectively communication and information technology D4. Reflect on practice and experience D5. Demonstrate high personal effectiveness: critical self-awareness and selfmanagement; time management; sensitivity to diversity in people and different situations D6. Take responsibility for own learning and continuing professional development

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