海角论坛

Guide to choosing classes海角论坛 Business School

The following classes are available to exchange students studying in 海角论坛 Business School:

Semester 1 – Level 1

These classes run from September until December

  • Class code: BF112
  • Level: 1
  • Semester (including exams): 1 (September - December)
  • Credits: 10 (5 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: None
  • Teaching methods: lectures, seminars, tutorials
  • Additional Comments: This class can be taken either Semester 1 OR 2 under different class codes, The same class should not be taken twice

Class descriptor

Students will develop an understanding of key concepts, critical debates and trends in hospitality and tourism management in an international context, and the key practices and processes involved in human resource management. This module highlights the synergies between both subjects; case studies discussed in Managing People are linked to hospitality and tourism, and discussion in Tourism Studies will include a focus on employment in the service sector.
Tourism Studies: tourism supply and demand; sustainability and sustainable development; controversies in HTM; tourism trends and niches; digital revolution in HTM; future trends.
Managing People: the context of HRM and employment; job quality and the labour market; attracting, developing and maintaining a quality workforce; leadership and managing people; critical and contemporary themes on work and employment; responsible and sustainable HRM.

  • Class code: Z1129
  • Level: 1
  • Semester (including exams): 1 (September - December)
  • Credits: 10 (5 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: None
  • Teaching methods: online delivery, lectures, seminars, tutorials
  • Additional Comments: 
    This module can be taken either Semester 1 OR 2 under different class codes, The same class should not be taken twice.
    This module is taught fully online.

Class descriptor

This cross-disciplinary module is open to students across the University and is created to encourage students to develop an entrepreneurial mindset in support of identifying and advancing towards personal goals, helping employment prospects and creating positive change for themselves and others. The module is delivered fully online with academic, learning technology and administrative support. It will help students recognize how entrepreneurial thinking and activity can take place in a range of contexts including venture start-up, within existing organisations, to address social issues and inequalities, and within your personal life.

  • Class code: BF114
  • Level: 1
  • Semester (including exams): 1 (September - December)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: None
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials, Demonstration , Group Work
  • Additional Comments: This class can be taken either Semester 1 OR 2 under different class codes, The same class should not be taken twice

Class descriptor

Economics: The purpose of the Economics part of the module is to provide the student with a balanced introduction to economics which will be at once self-contained and lay the foundation for further work. The work of the module will be based on a programme of systematic directed reading, supplemented by experiments and exercises undertaken in tutorials. This Module uses the innovative COREecon resources, which provides a complete introduction to economics and the economy. COREecon teaches about the economy and economics by starting from a question or a problem about the economy then teach the tools of economics that contribute to an answer. This innovative approach ensures that students understand how the tools of economics can help us understand the modern economy.
Business Analysis & Technology: BAT is the study of how analytical thinking, scientific method and associated tools can be used to help decision making. This part of the class will provide an overview of where methods and tools are widely used across a large range of industries including the manufacturing, retail, healthcare, financial services, travel, and electronics industries, as well as in local and national government. The application of Business Analysis & Technology methods can help with issues such as the management of new building projects, the design of efficient transport systems and plant layouts, personnel scheduling, allocation of resources and financial modelling and forecasting, It can help to reduce costs, increase revenues, improve customer service, increase efficiency and can even save lives.

  • Class code: BF121
  • Level: 1
  • Semester (including exams): 1 (September - December)
  • Credits: 10 (5 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: None
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials
  • Additional Comments: This class can be taken either Semester 1 OR 2 under different class codes, The same class should not be taken twice

Class descriptor

This module gives the student a basic understanding of the environmental context in which an organisation exists with particular emphasis on the international arena. It will familiarise the student with basic theories associated with management on a global stage, the international business context, and the strategy and interrelationships of international organisations. It is designed around four main areas: 1. A general introduction to international business and the manager’s role within it 2. The theoretical underpinnings associated with management in a globalised business context 3. The strategy and interrelationships of international organisations. It is designed around four main areas: 1. A general introduction to international business and the manager's role within it; 2. The theoretical underpinnings associated with management in a globalised business context; 3. The strategy and interrelationships of international organisations; 4. The trends towards greater international connectedness and concerns for corporate social responsibility.

  • Class code: BF123
  • Level: 1
  • Semester (including exams): 1 (September - December)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: None
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials, Private Study
  • Additional Comments: This class can be taken either Semester 1 OR 2 under different class codes, The same class should not be taken twice

Class descriptor

This module aims to provide an understanding of the basic principles of finance and investment, both in theory and in practice. It also provides sufficient coverage of accounting principles to enable an understanding of the purpose and preparation company accounts, their usefulness for decision making and for the evaluation of business performance. The module provides a solid foundation for further studies in Finance. It begins with the concept of a business organisation and the role of the financial manager. It then covers in detail the fundamental concept of the time value of money followed by the valuation of securities such as bonds and shares, the appraisal of business investments. The module then introduces accounting by examining how financial statements are prepared, and the nature of the information they provide for investors and other users of accounts, as well as the behaviour of costs and the use of accounting within organisations. This aspect of the module also embraces corporate governance and the role of directors and auditors. This is followed by a detailed analysis of the risk of investing in financial securities such as company shares, and how this is linked with expected returns. Finally, the module covers important aspects of personal finance in everyday life. At all times the module content will be linked with financial behaviour and events in the real world.

  • Class code: BF127
  • Level: 1
  • Semester (including exams): 1 (September - December)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: None
  • Teaching methods: Lectures
  • Additional Comments: This class can be taken either Semester 1 OR 2 under different class codes, The same class should not be taken twice

Class descriptor

The aim of this class is to provide students with a solid foundation and understanding of the theories and principles underlying marketing and entrepreneurship. A combination of marketing and entrepreneurship will be taught throughout the semester to enhance understanding of the way the two disciplines address issues related to both the macro- and micro-environment contexts of markets and entrepreneurship. In this class, you will be exposed to concepts and ideas from economics, sociology, psychology, geography and other social sciences, all in the context of the competitive business environment.
Marketing is a complex process involving many different skills and activities, but it is based upon four simple principles: identifying a real consumer need; developing a product or service which will meet that need; the persuasion of potential customers to try that product or service; and the constant improvement and updating of the product or service to meet changing consumer or market conditions. In this class, you will be exposed to concepts and ideas from economics, sociology, psychology, geography and other social sciences, all in the context of the competitive business environment.
Entrepreneurship primarily addresses the identification of value-creating opportunities and the exploitation of those opportunities through the creation, design, development, and growth of new organisations. In this class, you will explore and critically analyse the highly varied roles that entrepreneurial activities play in society.

  • Class code: SF106
  • Level: 1
  • Semester (including exams): 1 (September - December)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: None
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials
  • Additional Comments: 
    This module can be taken either Semester 1 OR 2 under different class codes, The same class should not be taken twice.
    This module is taught fully online.

Class descriptor

This cross-disciplinary module is open to students across the University and aims to develop knowledge and understanding of sustainable development from multi-disciplinary perspectives. The module will introduce students to the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals and will explore in depth multidisciplinary perspectives of responding to the challenges of four particular goals, namely: SDG 3 Good Health and Wellbeing, SDG 6 Clean Water and Sanitation, SDG 10 Reduced Inequalities, and SDG 13 Climate action. Through focused study of these four SDGs, students will gain an understanding of the different ways in which disciplines in Business, Engineering, Humanities and Social Sciences, and Science can contribute to addressing these challenges. In addition to developing academic skills, students will also have the opportunity to develop socio-emotional skills including reflective skills and the ability to collaborate with, and communicate effectively with, students from other disciplines.

Semester 1 – Level 2

  • Class code: AG215
  • Level: 2
  • Semester (including exams): 1 (September - December)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: BF123/BF124 Introduction to Finance and Financial Analysis or AG105 Introduction to Finance and Financial Statistics, or equivalent
  • Teaching methods: lectures, seminars, tutorials

Class descriptor

The aim of the class is to provide an understanding of financial management within a business enterprise. The class builds on introductory investment appraisal rules from first year to consider the appropriate cash flows to be evaluated when undertaking an investment project and building up to how to value a business enterprise, and how companies determine their cost of capital for such projects. The module will also consider financing issues related to the forecasting and management of cash flows over time to ensure sufficient liquidity. Finally, the course will also provide a framework to allow students to understand a company’s financial policy decisions relating to payout policy, leasing, raising equity capital in efficient markets, and capital structure.

  • Class code: EC215
  • Level: 2
  • Semester (including exams): 1 (September - December)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: BF114/BF115 Introduction to Economics and Business Analysis or equivalent
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials

Class descriptor

This is the core microeconomics module in second year. It aims to develop students’ understanding of the concepts of consumer choice; the motives of the firm and profit maximisation; the market and its role in achieving equilibrium prices and quantities; and the implications of market power. It will introduce students to mathematical techniques commonplace in economics, giving them the ability to apply these in a wider economic context.

  • Class code: X2126
  • Level: 2
  • Semester (including exams): 1 (September - December)
  • Credits: 10 (5 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: None
  • Teaching methods: Introductory lectures, groupwork
  • Additional Comments: This credit-bearing module is hosted by 海角论坛 Inspire and is open to students of all disciplines. It takes a blended workshop format with strong emphasis on team collaboration.

Class descriptor

Through participation in a real-world entrepreneurship Challenge, students will develop the attributes of an entrepreneurial mindset. The aim is not to teach entrepreneurship as a subject, but to use entrepreneurship as a context for developing entrepreneurial mindsets in support of personal, academic and professional growth. Registration and participation in the Exploring Entrepreneurship Challenge is a requirement of the module, and this involves actively communicating with group members for all aspects of the module and attending group meetings when scheduled, and students must commit to this when enrolling in this module as they must engage with the Entrepreneurial Challenge and all its requirements.
Learning outcomes include: Understanding of sustainable development in the real world and how entrepreneurial activity can address the challenges of sustainable development; Understanding of social value and enterprise frameworks; Collaboration within a diverse, multidisciplinary team to develop and clearly articulate an entrepreneurial idea, develop a written proposal communicating the core components of the idea and demonstrating its feasibility and social impact; Contribute actively to team problem-solving and decision making; Deliver an initial idea pitch to peers, mentors and stakeholders for feedback, and adapt the proposal in accordance with the feedback gained – this is designed to surface gaps, reveal innovative potential and sharpen communication before final submission; Submit video pitch to the Inspire Entrepreneurial Challenge.

  • Class code: Z1212
  • Level: 2
  • Semester (including exams): 1 (September - December)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: Some understanding of business entrepreneurship is useful but not essential
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Group Work, Group Presentations, Private Study

Class descriptor

This module is designed to highlight the complexity of decision-making in a start-up company, while developing and implementing the business model behind the company. Through a business simulation, students have the opportunity to experience the complexity of the entrepreneurial process and of team-work, thereby gaining an understanding of the challenges and issues facing entrepreneurial teams. Students will obtain insight into the business knowledge, skills and general requirements of successfully running a new venture, and will learn key concepts of new venture development, business operation and factors influencing success or failure. The module will provide students with a practical context for practising and developing a wide range of essential business skills eg managing resources and people and solving problems, and the ability to analyse and evaluate commercial business opportunities within a given context.

  • Class code: MK209
  • Level: 2
  • Semester (including exams): 1 (September - December)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: MK111 Introduction to Marketing or equivalent
  • Teaching methods: lectures, seminars, tutorials

Class descriptor

Many of the fundamental concepts of marketing are based on an ability to understand consumers and the marketing concept can be implemented more effectively when adequate information about the market and potential consumer behaviour is available. Marketing Research and customer information provide a critical input to the planning and development of a company’s marketing strategy in relation to marketing communications, strategic marketing and branding.
In this module, we explore a variety of different theories of consumption relating to consumers in the marketplace, as individuals, as decision-makers and as social beings. We will go beyond looking at the act of buying to consider the entire consumption cycle including pre-consumption and post-consumption attitudes and behaviour. Given that consumption has an increasingly important role in our daily lives, students will be encouraged to draw on their own experiences to aid understanding of the theoretical content of the module. This will demonstrate how understanding of the consumer can be developed by providing an overview of the decisions and stages of the Marketing Research Process. It aims to provide students with a clear appreciation of the importance of marketing research, the research process and the approaches/techniques used. Research is looked at within the context of customer information now being available from a wide range of sources including databases, loyalty cards and the internet.

  • Class code: MS210
  • Level: 2
  • Semester (including exams): 1 (September - December)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: Some understanding of data analysis is beneficial but is not essential.
  • Teaching methods: lectures, seminars, tutorials

Class descriptor

The module aims to provide basic understanding of the principles of Operations Management in both manufacturing and service industries with special focus on learning simulation package, Simul8. Management decisions and factors influencing these decisions in a variety of areas of Operations Management are discussed. These include Operations Strategy, Product and Process Design, Quality Management, Control and Improvement. Simul8 will be used to teach modelling of different business operations specifically within the context of service operations. Decision analysis techniques are developed and are applied to some of the operations management subjects to illustrate how managers can be supported with analytical tools to reach justifiable decisions about their operations. Special attention will be given to modelling with simulation as a strong and relevant management science tool in the context of operations management.

  • Class code: WE201
  • Level: 2
  • Semester (including exams): 1 (September - December)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: Some understanding of management and human resource management is useful but not essential
  • Teaching methods: lectures, seminars, tutorials

Class descriptor

The module aims to provide a foundation in psychological principles which are important for understanding the effectiveness and wellbeing of people at work. The objectives are: provide an appreciation of the intellectual contribution of work psychology to management and HRM; Develop awareness of alternative psychological explanations of employees’ behaviour and experiences at work; Highlight current trends and changes in employment, management, and organisations, and to examine the impact of these on employees’ behaviour and experiences at work; Introduce students to issues of research methodology in studying employee behaviour and experiences and so enable them to evaluate existing research and conduct preliminary investigations of their own.

  • Class code: WE212
  • Level: 2
  • Semester (including exams): 1 (September - December)
  • Credits: 120 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: None
  • Teaching methods: lectures, seminars, tutorials

Class descriptor

Sustainability is a current and ever growing concern for the Hospitality and Tourism sectors, not least with respect to intensifying climate change, environmental degradation, labour dynamics, global health concerns and pressure on host communities.  The aim of the module is to teach “strong” instead of “weak” sustainability.  Strong sustainability underscores complexity and systemic factors, cross-disciplinary understandings, eco-centric perspectives, the minimisation of resources, societal ethics and values, and science-based approaches.  The module includes a comprehensive emphasis on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) a part of a strong sustainability focus and considers sustainability challenges and practices in the H&T sectors.
Students will be exposed to a range of issues pertaining to tourism sustainability through lectures, and workshops will be used to unpack the SDGs through case examples and reflection practices. Students will learn to identify, prioritise and evaluate implications for a more sustainable industry from a range of perspectives and discuss limitations in relation to achieving a more sustainable tourism industry.

  • Class code: WE213
  • Level: 2
  • Semester (including exams): 1 (September - December)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: Some understanding of international business is useful but not essential
  • Teaching methods: lectures, seminars, tutorials

Class descriptor

Part 1 will cover: theories of international trade and investment including the evolution of the world trading system and the role of global institutions such as the World Trade Organisation; the practice of international trade and home and host country policies and stakeholder attitudes towards the changing impact of trade and foreign direct investment, and experiences of regional economic integration across the globe. Part 1 connects to Part 2 through special topics on how businesses can try to influence and alter their environment. Throughout, emphasis is placed on the implications of each topic for the management of different types of firms operating across national borders.
Part 2 focuses more closely on the Strategy, Structure and Operations of firms operating across borders. This will cover behavioural and organizational perspectives on the internationalisation process of firms, including diverse motivations to internationalisation; ‘generic’ strategies of multinational enterprise, including national differences and the competitive benefits of ‘multinationality’; the influence of administrative heritage on the structuring of multinational enterprises, with particular emphasis on the tension between the need for global integration and local responsiveness across different industries, and the links between structure and strategy; and evaluating and developing foreign market opportunities, including a detailed examination of modes of foreign market entry and ongoing operations (eg exporting/importing, licensing, foreign direct investment, mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, R&D consortiums); a special session focusing on the behaviour of the internationalising small and medium-sized enterprise (SME); the challenges of acquiring, developing and exploiting knowledge through multinationality is a common thread throughout each topic. Part 2 closes with a detailed overview of the specific problems and choices to be made when organising the global production.
Through the use of case studies of real organizations, students will apply not only the knowledge they gain from this module and their other business subjects, but also knowledge of the national contexts of the countries and earlier studies in international business. At the same time, this module will examine the more micro-level issues of ‘how to do it’ with a specific focus on cross-cultural management issues.

  • Class code: Z1217
  • Level: 2
  • Semester (including exams): 1 (September - December)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: Some previous study in business creativity/innovation is beneficial but not essential
  • Teaching methods: lectures, seminars, tutorials

Class descriptor

This module aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the nature, processes, and management of innovation in contemporary organisations. It introduces key concepts and frameworks that explain what innovation is, why it matters, and how it can be effectively organised and strategically pursued. Students will explore the sources of innovation, search strategies, and the role of creativity and networks in enabling innovative activity, alongside methods for capturing business value from innovation. The module also broadens the scope by exploring (other) forms of innovation and how these may generate wider societal benefits, focusing on social, frugal and responsible innovation as pathways to inclusive and sustainable impact. Through a blend of lectures and tutorials, students will develop the analytical and practical skills needed to understand and critically assess innovation and innovative practice and process. The emphasis of the course will be on active analysis of “real-life” cases in innovation management and business strategy.

Semester 1 – Level 3

  • Class code: AG309
  • Level: 3
  • Semester (including exams): 1 (September - December)
  • Credits: 10 (5 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: Students should have a good grounding in financial and management accounting, and also previous study of corporate/business law
  • Teaching methods: lectures, seminars, tutorials
  • Additional Comments: Enrolment in Accounting modules at all levels requires approval by the Department of Accounting & Finance. Prerequisite regulations are strict.

Class descriptor

Governance issues have been debated at great length for many years, but have reached particular prominence in the aftermath of many of the major business scandals that have arisen. The importance of the UK Code on Corporate Governance within the UK Corporate Framework makes it desirable to present the accounting aspects of governance and the study of ethics in an accounting setting as a separate class. This third year, one semester, 10 credit class is intended to provide an overview of the role of accounting within business and society more generally. The main aim of this class is to locate the accounting profession within its wider social and business contexts. Accountants prepare and audit financial statements that have implications for all stakeholders. That creates an ethical dimension to the financial reporting process. Furthermore, there is a clear role for financial reporting in the maintenance of relationships between the reporting entity and the capital markets. This class will explore the resulting responsibilities arising for accountants in these roles.

  • Class code: AG311
  • Level: 3
  • Semester (including exams): 1 (September - December)
  • Credits: 10 (5 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: AG218 Intermediate Financial Reporting, or equivalent
  • Teaching methods: lectures, seminars, tutorials
  • Additional Comments: Enrolment in Accounting modules at all levels requires approval by the Department of Accounting & Finance. Prerequisite regulations are strict.

Class descriptor

This is an advanced level class in financial accounting. It discusses complex issues at both a practical and a theoretical level. The class aims to develop an appreciation of both the difficulties faced by preparers, auditors and standard setters in ensuring that a set of accounts gives a true and fair view and to develop an awareness of the extent to which academic research can guide and illuminate this process. The class achieves this aim through the systematic analysis of financial accounting regulations and practice, in a context of institutional and cultural factors, and through exploring research into aspects of financial accounting. This class is intended to provide an overview of the role of accounting within business and society more generally, building on the material introduced in AG218 Intermediate Financial Accounting.

  • Class code: AG312
  • Level: 3
  • Semester (including exams): 1 (September - December)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: BF123/BF124 Introduction to Finance and Financial Analysis or AG105 Introduction to Finance and Financial Statistics, and AG215 Business Finance or equivalent
  • Teaching methods: lectures, seminars, tutorials

Class descriptor

The aim of the module is to provide an understanding of the financial markets and corporate financial theories at advanced level. The class will cover financial markets, institutions and instruments, process of financing of a corporate entity and some specialist topics (such as warrants & convertibles, real options, mergers and acquisitions, and international project appraisal) that are relevant for corporate decision making.

  • Class code: EC315
  • Level: 3
  • Semester (including exams): 1 (September - December)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: EC215 Intermediate Microeconomics or equivalent
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials, Practical

Class descriptor

This module builds on the conceptual framework of EC215 Intermediate Microeconomics by introducing students to market imperfections through the lens of game theory. Game theory is an analytical toolbox that allows us to understand decision making in strategic environments and the module will provide students with a foundation in game theoretic reasoning. The module will study how market imperfections create a role for Government in markets and will investigate topics including taxation, education, and crime and punishment. This module will also look to explore some of these ideas empirically using cross section data. These empirical methods will open up a new route for students to understand the key taught economic ideas in a real world context.
Students will: Become conversant with elements of game theory for the study of economic environments in which economic agents interact; Apply game theory to affect an understanding of economic phenomena including price and quantity setting in oligopolistic markets, market entry deterrence strategies, first-mover advantage/disadvantage, market failure through the lens of the prisoners’ dilemma; Develop understanding of the issues of public economics including the role of Government in taxation and redistribution, the issues associated with fiscal federalism, the economic analysis of crime and social issues; Understand how to undertake an econometric analysis pertaining to economic issues, including descriptive statistics, simple and multiple regression, hypothesis testing, robust estimation, instrumental variable regression.

  • Class code: MK329
  • Level: 3
  • Semester (including exams): 1 (September - December)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: MK111 Introduction to Marketing or equivalent, and an understanding of consumer behaviour
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials

Class descriptor

The module aims to build knowledge and understanding of how digital advancements shape marketing strategies. It intends to introduce and develop digital and social media marketing specific skills and knowledge as well as foster a detailed understanding of integrated marketing communications and the effect digital channels have on its impact. Emphasising the pivotal role of measurement, the curriculum underscores the significance of evaluating the efficacy of digital marketing endeavours. Learners are equipped with the tools to navigate the intricacies of digital marketing landscapes and leverage them effectively within broader marketing strategies.

  • Class code: MS361
  • Level: 3
  • Semester (including exams): 1 (September - December)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: It is recommended that students will have taken an introductory class in business analysis.
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials, Group Work, Private Study, Supervised time in Studio/ Workshop

Class descriptor

This module aims to develop a deeper understanding and expertise in the application of a number of approaches to problem structuring and evaluation, with a focus on soft systems methodology (SSM) and multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA). Students will develop a strong understanding and solid practical knowledge of optimization methods that are directly applicable to business systems.
Indicative content includes: Introduction to Problem Structuring (Wicked problems and mixing methods; Review of previous approaches; Soft systems methodology (SSM) and Rich Pictures; Strategic Options Development and Analysis SODA); Multi-criteria Decision Analysis MCDA (Unaided decision making; Introduction to and deep dives on MCDA); Linear Programming (Introduction to problem formulations and modelling; Advanced linear programming; Network flows; Integer programming).

  • Class code: WE303
  • Level: 3
  • Semester (including exams): 1 (September - December)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: Some understanding of human resource management is useful but not essential.
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials, Group Work, Online Delivery, Private Study

Class descriptor

This course introduces students to a critical understanding of the British system of employment relations, and the general principles, processes, institutions, institutional arrangements and outcomes in the area of employment relations. The course will also consider the changing contexts of the regulation of British employment relations including the Europeanisation of employment practices. The course will explore different theoretical approaches to the study of employment and industrial relations and then examine the role and objectives of trade unions, employers and the state, and the processes and outcomes of their interactions in collective bargaining, employee participation and industrial conflict.

  • Class code: WE316
  • Level: 3
  • Semester (including exams): 1 (September - December)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: It is recommended that students will have taken an introductory class in business analysis and technology.
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials

Class descriptor

This module focuses on exploring the international dimension of the hospitality and tourism industry. It brings together insights from International Business and HTM literatures to explore how the industry has become increasingly global in its operations and conceptualises new technologies and new type of players that have entered the industry. The class contributes to our understanding of the industry by drawing attention to internationalisation and the various ways technology has enables changes in the industry. It fits conveniently with the third year’s particular focus on experiential learning in two ways: (1) It encourages students to think more about the different ways technology impacts their own behaviour and in doing so; (2) it draws attention to the complexities associated with innovation, sustainability and change in hospitality and tourism.

  • Class code: Z1314
  • Level: 3
  • Semester (including exams): 1 (September - December)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: BF127/128 Introduction to Marketing & Entrepreneurship and Z1218 New Venture Planning or their equivalent. Students without this experience but with a background in business finance may be considered.
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials

Class descriptor

The purpose of this module is to help students achieve a sufficient level of financial literacy need to function as entrepreneurs, and it addresses how startups and small businesses source and manage finance. Finance is a core function within most organisations and it is especially pivotal for starts and SMEs that need to carefully navigate to survive and grow.
The module will begin with the foundational concepts of accounting and financial management before delving into key aspects of profit and loss, exploring the five levels of profit, pricing structures, and the significance of accrual accounting and depreciation methods. Students will gain insights into balance sheet analysis, cash flow management, and forecasting, emphasizing tools like the cash conversion cycle and financial modelling. The latter part of the module transitions into advanced topics such as capital investment appraisal techniques followed by a comprehensive exploration of funding options. These include self-financing, bootstrapping strategies, debt financing and equity financing through angel investors and venture capital. The overarching theme of the module is to equip students with the skills and knowledge to evaluate, manage, and secure financial resources effectively, thereby supporting strategic decision-making and fostering entrepreneurial success in dynamic business environments.

Semester 2 – Level 1

Classes run from January to May

  • Class code: BF113
  • Level: 1
  • Semester (including exams): 2 (January - May)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: This class can be taken either Semester 1 OR 2 under different class codes, The same class should not be taken twice
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials
  • Additional Comments: This class can be taken either Semester 1 OR 2 under different class codes, The same class should not be taken twice

Class descriptor

Students will develop an understanding of key concepts, critical debates and trends in hospitality and tourism management in an international context, and the key practices and processes involved in human resource management. This module highlights the synergies between both subjects; case studies discussed in Managing People are linked to hospitality and tourism, and discussion in Tourism Studies will include a focus on employment in the service sector.
Tourism Studies: tourism supply and demand; sustainability and sustainable development; controversies in HTM; tourism trends and niches; digital revolution in HTM; future trends.
Managing People: the context of HRM and employment; job quality and the labour market; attracting, developing and maintaining a quality workforce; leadership and managing people; critical and contemporary themes on work and employment; responsible and sustainable HRM.

  • Class code: BF115
  • Level: 1
  • Semester (including exams): 2 (January - May)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: None
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials, Demonstration ,Group Work
  • Additional Comments: This class can be taken either Semester 1 OR 2 under different class codes, The same class should not be taken twice

Class descriptor

Economics: The purpose of the Economics part of the module is to provide the student with a balanced introduction to economics which will be at once self-contained and lay the foundation for further work. The work of the module will be based on a programme of systematic directed reading, supplemented by experiments and exercises undertaken in tutorials. This Module uses the innovative COREecon resources, which provides a complete introduction to economics and the economy. COREecon teaches about the economy and economics by starting from a question or a problem about the economy then teach the tools of economics that contribute to an answer. This innovative approach ensures that students understand how the tools of economics can help us understand the modern economy.
Business Analysis & Technology: BAT is the study of how analytical thinking, scientific method and associated tools can be used to help decision making. This part of the class will provide an overview of where methods and tools are widely used across a large range of industries including the manufacturing, retail, healthcare, financial services, travel, and electronics industries, as well as in local and national government. The application of Business Analysis & Technology methods can help with issues such as the management of new building projects, the design of efficient transport systems and plant layouts, personnel scheduling, allocation of resources and financial modelling and forecasting, It can help to reduce costs, increase revenues, improve customer service, increase efficiency and can even save lives.

  • Class code:Z1128
  • Level: 1
  • Semester (including exams): 2 (January - May)
  • Credits: 10 (5 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: None
  • Teaching methods: online delivery, lectures, seminars, tutorials
  • Additional Comments: 
    This module can be taken either Semester 1 OR 2 under different class codes, The same class should not be taken twice.
    This module is taught fully online.

Class descriptor

This cross-disciplinary module is open to students across the University and is created to encourage students to develop an entrepreneurial mindset in support of identifying and advancing towards personal goals, helping employment prospects and creating positive change for themselves and others. The module is delivered fully online with academic, learning technology and administrative support. It will help students recognize how entrepreneurial thinking and activity can take place in a range of contexts including venture start-up, within existing organisations, to address social issues and inequalities, and within your personal life.

  • Class code: BF122
  • Level: 1
  • Semester (including exams): 2 (January - May)
  • Credits: 10 (5 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: None
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials
  • Additional Comments: This class can be taken either Semester 1 OR 2 under different class codes, The same class should not be taken twice

Class descriptor

This module gives the student a basic understanding of the environmental context in which an organisation exists with particular emphasis on the international arena. It will familiarise the student with basic theories associated with management on a global stage, the international business context, and the strategy and interrelationships of international organisations. It is designed around four main areas: 1. A general introduction to international business and the manager’s role within it 2. The theoretical underpinnings associated with management in a globalised business context 3. The strategy and interrelationships of international organisations. It is designed around four main areas: 1. A general introduction to international business and the manager's role within it; 2. The theoretical underpinnings associated with management in a globalised business context; 3. The strategy and interrelationships of international organisations; 4. The trends towards greater international connectedness and concerns for corporate social responsibility.

  • Class code: BF124
  • Level: 1
  • Semester (including exams): 2 (January - May)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: None
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials, Private Study
  • Additional Comments: This class can be taken either Semester 1 OR 2 under different class codes, The same class should not be taken twice

Class descriptor

This module aims to provide an understanding of the basic principles of finance and investment, both in theory and in practice. It also provides sufficient coverage of accounting principles to enable an understanding of the purpose and preparation company accounts, their usefulness for decision making and for the evaluation of business performance. The module provides a solid foundation for further studies in Finance. It begins with the concept of a business organisation and the role of the financial manager. It then covers in detail the fundamental concept of the time value of money followed by the valuation of securities such as bonds and shares, the appraisal of business investments. The module then introduces accounting by examining how financial statements are prepared, and the nature of the information they provide for investors and other users of accounts, as well as the behaviour of costs and the use of accounting within organisations. This aspect of the module also embraces corporate governance and the role of directors and auditors. This is followed by a detailed analysis of the risk of investing in financial securities such as company shares, and how this is linked with expected returns. Finally, the module covers important aspects of personal finance in everyday life. At all times the module content will be linked with financial behaviour and events in the real world.

  • Class code: BF128
  • Level: 1
  • Semester (including exams): 2 (January - May)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: None
  • Teaching methods: Lectures
  • Additional Comments: This class can be taken either Semester 1 OR 2 under different class codes, The same class should not be taken twice

Class descriptor

The aim of this class is to provide students with a solid foundation and understanding of the theories and principles underlying marketing and entrepreneurship. A combination of marketing and entrepreneurship will be taught throughout the semester to enhance understanding of the way the two disciplines address issues related to both the macro- and micro-environment contexts of markets and entrepreneurship. In this class, you will be exposed to concepts and ideas from economics, sociology, psychology, geography and other social sciences, all in the context of the competitive business environment.

Marketing is a complex process involving many different skills and activities, but it is based upon four simple principles: identifying a real consumer need; developing a product or service which will meet that need; the persuasion of potential customers to try that product or service; and the constant improvement and updating of the product or service to meet changing consumer or market conditions. In this class, you will be exposed to concepts and ideas from economics, sociology, psychology, geography and other social sciences, all in the context of the competitive business environment.

Entrepreneurship primarily addresses the identification of value-creating opportunities and the exploitation of those opportunities through the creation, design, development, and growth of new organisations. In this class, you will explore and critically analyse the highly varied roles that entrepreneurial activities play in society.

  • Class code: SF105
  • Level: 1
  • Semester (including exams): 2 (January - May)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: None
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials
  • Additional Comments: 
    This module can be taken either Semester 1 OR 2 under different class codes, The same class should not be taken twice.
    This module is taught fully online.

Class descriptor

This cross-disciplinary module is open to students across the University and aims to develop knowledge and understanding of sustainable development from multi-disciplinary perspectives. The module will introduce students to the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals and will explore in depth multidisciplinary perspectives of responding to the challenges of four particular goals, namely: SDG 3 Good Health and Wellbeing, SDG 6 Clean Water and Sanitation, SDG 10 Reduced Inequalities, and SDG 13 Climate action. Through focused study of these four SDGs, students will gain an understanding of the different ways in which disciplines in Business, Engineering, Humanities and Social Sciences, and Science can contribute to addressing these challenges. In addition to developing academic skills, students will also have the opportunity to develop socio-emotional skills including reflective skills and the ability to collaborate with, and communicate effectively with, students from other disciplines.

Semester 2 – Level 2

  • Class code: AG217
  • Level: 1
  • Semester (including exams): 2 (January - May)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: BF123/BF124 Intro to Finance and Financial Analysis or AG105 Introduction to Finance and Financial Statistics
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials

Class descriptor

The module aims to provide an understanding of the principles and theories relevant to the process of building investment portfolios and covers practical applications as well as theoretical material. The module considers mean-variance portfolio theory, linear asset pricing models such as the capital asset pricing model (CAPM) and arbitrage pricing theory (APT), market efficiency, valuation of bonds, bond portfolio management and fund performance.

  • Class code: X2127
  • Level: 2
  • Semester (including exams): 2 (January - May)
  • Credits: 10 (5 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: None
  • Teaching methods: Introductory lectures, groupwork
  • Additional Comments: This credit-bearing module is hosted by 海角论坛 Inspire and is open to students of all disciplines. It takes a blended workshop format with strong emphasis on team collaboration.

Class descriptor

Through participation in a real-world entrepreneurship Challenge, students will develop the attributes of an entrepreneurial mindset. The aim is not to teach entrepreneurship as a subject, but to use entrepreneurship as a context for developing entrepreneurial mindsets in support of personal, academic and professional growth. Registration and participation in the Exploring Entrepreneurship Challenge is a requirement of the module, and this involves actively communicating with group members for all aspects of the module and attending group meetings when scheduled, and students must commit to this when enrolling in this module as they must engage with the Entrepreneurial Challenge and all its requirements.
Learning outcomes include: Understanding of sustainable development in the real world and how entrepreneurial activity can address the challenges of sustainable development; Understanding of social value and enterprise frameworks; Collaboration within a diverse, multidisciplinary team to develop and clearly articulate an entrepreneurial idea, develop a written proposal communicating the core components of the idea and demonstrating its feasibility and social impact; Contribute actively to team problem-solving and decision making; Deliver an initial idea pitch to peers, mentors and stakeholders for feedback, and adapt the proposal in accordance with the feedback gained – this is designed to surface gaps, reveal innovative potential and sharpen communication before final submission; Submit video pitch to the Inspire Entrepreneurial Challenge.

  • Class code: EC216
  • Level: 2
  • Semester (including exams): 2 (January - May)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: BF114/BF115 Introduction to Economics and Business Analysis or equivalent
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials

Class descriptor

The module builds upon the macroeconomic foundations established in the first year Economics module and both extends and deepens analysis. In particular this module will develop student’s ability to use key models used to analyse the determination of output in the short-run and in in the medium-run. We will also cover some topics in the analysis of economic data including correlation and simple regression. The objective is to develop the ability to use data analysis and macroeconomics to glean insights about the economy.

  • Class code: MK212
  • Level: 2
  • Semester (including exams): 2 (January - May)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: MK111 Introduction to Marketing or equivalent
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials

Class descriptor

In this class, we aim to develop your understanding of the key decision-making areas relating to the marketing of services and retail. We will explore a variety of different theories relating to the marketing and management of services. We will consider how customers perceive and evaluate services as well as various approaches of differentiating a service brand through service quality, service personnel and processes as well as technology. This class then focuses on retailing specifically reviewing consumer behaviour in retailing and the strategies adopted to position and differentiate different retailing brands. We will look at store design and location, the role of the employee, the use of own brands and pricing. We also look at current and future trends in terms of e-tailing, experiential retailing, and internationalisation.

  • Class code: MS211
  • Level: 2
  • Semester (including exams): 2 (January - May)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: MK111 Introduction to Marketing or equivalent
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials, Practical

Class descriptor

This class aims to provide students with an understanding of the key issues in the management of business processes and information systems within the wider context of the advent of the information/knowledge economy, including: mapping & modelling of business processes, business process measurement and improvement, business process implementation, Enterprise Resource Planning, and company-wide IS. The class will also provide students with the opportunity to use an industry-standard ERP system to explore practical solutions to problems of business process integration.

  • Class code: WE202
  • Level: 2
  • Semester (including exams): 2 (January - May)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: None
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials, Group Work, Practical, Private Study

Class descriptor

This module provides a foundation of psychological principles which are important for understanding the effectiveness and experience of people at work. These principles are used to introduce a range of topic areas of relevance for employees, managers and employers and which introduce the relevance of HRM to work and employment. The aim of the module is to understand the many issues facing practitioners responsible for leading an organisation. Topics typically discussed include work psychology, leadership, motivation, attitudes at work and performance, wellbeing at work, work design, organisational change and development.

  • Class code: WE211
  • Level: 2
  • Semester (including exams): 2 (January - May)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: MK111 Introduction to Marketing or equivalent
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials

Class descriptor

This class discusses designing, staging and managing service experiences within the contexts of hospitality, tourism and events – and other service dominant sectors. Designing high quality and ‘unique’ service experiences provides significant competitive advantages to businesses. The needs and wishes of consumers have changed and continue to change, for example trends like the rise of the experience economy and principals of sustainable long-term development require increased attention. These two developments are already prompting new business models within the service industry and other industries, which increasingly make use of business logic and tools originating from the service industry. Therefore, new strategies and approaches are crucial to meet today’s increasingly service and knowledge dominant economy. This class aims to provide students with the knowledge to recognize the consequences of technological, sustainable, and various other societal developments and trends, and find new and successful ways to differentiate themselves from the competition.

  • Class code: Z1218
  • Level: 2
  • Semester (including exams): 2 (January - May)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: Some understanding of creativity/business entrepreneurship is useful but not essential
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials, Group Work

Class descriptor

New Venture Planning is designed to provide a practical introduction to drawing up business plans and understanding how new ventures are managed and developed. The module focuses upon the processes within new businesses but draws comparisons with larger organisations and as such introduces a more entrepreneurial approach to the career patterns of individuals who pursue careers in larger organisations. The module is highly interactive with students being involved in individual and group activities which will encourage creative thinking and “learning by doing” in addressing the real opportunities and challenges that face the first-time entrepreneur. The module considers the nature of business planning and students, working in small groups, will research and develop a business plan for a new venture. In this way participants learn first-hand about the entrepreneurial process of opportunity recognition, start-up and growth and associated activities such as networking, intelligence-gathering and credibility management.

Semester 2 – Level 3

  • Class code: AG308
  • Level: 3
  • Semester (including exams): 2 (January - May)
  • Credits: 10 (5 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: AG218 Intermediate Financial Reporting and AG219 Cost and Management Accounting, or equivalent
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials
  • Additional Comments: Enrolment in Accounting modules at all levels requires approval by the Department of Accounting & Finance. Prerequisite regulations are strict.

Class descriptor

The class aims to develop an appreciation of both the difficulties faced by preparers, auditors and standard setters in ensuring that a set of accounts gives a true and fair view and to develop an awareness of the extent to which academic research can guide and illuminate this process. The class achieves this aim through the systematic analysis of auditing regulations and practical applications, in a context of institutional and cultural factors, and through exploring research into aspects of auditing, with a view to analysing the policy issues facing those who regulate and those who apply audit.

  • Class code: AG310
  • Level: 3
  • Semester (including exams): 2 (January - May)
  • Credits: 10 (5 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: AG219 Cost and Management Accounting, or equivalent
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials
  • Additional Comments: Enrolment in Accounting modules at all levels requires approval by the Department of Accounting & Finance. Prerequisite regulations are strict.

Class descriptor

This module examines the role of management accounting to assist managers in solving contemporary organisational problems.  It is intended to extend your knowledge and understanding of contemporary management accounting practice building on the material introduced in AG219 Cost and Management Accounting, and to allow students to develop skills in effectively applying management accounting techniques and processes in different organisational contexts and situations. The module achieves this aim by introducing the student to a range of contemporary management accounting techniques, evaluating these techniques and applying them in a series of case study workshops.

  • Class code: AG313
  • Level: 3
  • Semester (including exams): 2 (January - May)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: BF123/BF124 Intro to Finance and Financial Analysis, AG215 Business Finance and AG217 Portfolio Management and Security Analysis, or equivalent
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials

Class descriptor

This module is comprised of two parts. The first part of the course is an introduction to the fundamentals of derivatives markets. The available range of derivative products will be presented along with the different types of participants in the markets. We will analyze the benefits and risks associated with the derivatives and examine the factors that can affect their prices. Particular emphasis will be placed on the valuation of options and futures offering students the opportunity to solve both simple and complex problems that will help provide a deeper understanding of the derivatives pricing. After analyzing the properties of stock options, the available trading strategies involving options will be investigated highlighting their importance and discussing their suitability given the investor’s portfolio. We will also show how derivatives can be used for hedging purposes.
The second part of the course provides an introduction to international finance and the activities of treasury management. We will develop understanding of foreign exchange management within the broader area of multinational finance. We will consider the basic operation of the foreign exchange market, theories related to determination and changes in foreign exchange rates and how to manage foreign exchange risk, particularly using derivative products. The coverage of treasury activities will include discussion on the organizational aspects of treasury management, definitions of different sources of risk and finally, we will specifically focus on interest rate risk management utilizing derivative products. A significant emphasis will be placed on practical techniques and the solution of problems, though not to the exclusion of some theory.

  • Class code: AG316
  • Level: 3
  • Semester (including exams): 2 (January - May)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: EC216 Intermediate Macroeconomics and Data Analysis or equivalent
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials, Practical

Class descriptor

The overarching aims of this class are to extend students' knowledge and understanding of core macroeconomic models and of the econometric methods used to analyse macroeconomic data, and to develop their ability to apply these models and methods to address some key questions in macroeconomics. The class covers: economic growth; expectations, demand and policy, Europe: past, present and future; and policy rules versus discretion. In addition, econometric methods covered include: regression; unit root testing; modelling volatility; cointegration and error correction.

  • Class code: MK328
  • Level: 3
  • Semester (including exams): 2 (January - May)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: MK111 Introduction to Marketing and MK209 Understanding Consumers and Markets, or equivalent
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials, Group Work, Private Study

Class descriptor

This module addresses the strategy formulation and planning aspects associated with strategic marketing management as it is applied in domestic and international contexts. The module offers students an analytic decision-oriented approach for the development and implementation of international marketing strategy.
By the end of this module, students will understand: how the analysis of the internal and external environment informs the company’s marketing planning process; motivations for internationalisation and internationalisation theories; competitors and their strategy; elements of the strategic marketing process in the international context; market segmentation, targeting and customer insight; international market selection process; factors influencing the entry mode choice decision and alternative entry methods; positioning strategy of the company and building strong customer-brand relationships; key elements of the marketing strategy mix; adaptation and standardisation in the context of the international marketing mix; control process through which firms assess successful marketing strategy in an international context.

  • Class code: MS311
  • Level: 3
  • Semester (including exams): 2 (January - May)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: None
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials, Group Work, Private Study

Class descriptor

In this module students will develop a comprehensive picture about knowledge and innovation. They will revisit some assumptions that they hold true, perhaps even unconsciously, and re-develop their understanding of some fundamental issues crucial for organisations to survive in the knowledge era. As they are acquiring new concepts, the students will play with these in the tutorials, interactively building more and more complex ideas and by doing so complexifying them.
Students will gain an understanding of: nature of knowledge-work and innovation in organisational contexts; knowledge and innovation and their strategic role in organisations; leadership and management decision-making issues with respect to knowledge-work and innovation; relationships between personal and organisational knowledge and innovation; talent and creativity.

  • Class code: WE301
  • Level: 3
  • Semester (including exams): 2 (January - May)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: Some previous study in international business and/or human resource management is beneficial but not essential
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials, Supervised time in Studio/Workshop

Class descriptor

This module focusses on the complex cross-cultural and human resource issues associated with the implementation of international business practice and strategies, and reflect the growing awareness that understanding of cross-cultural management and the effective management of human resources across cultures is increasingly recognised as vital to success in global business.
The module examines the main concepts currently employed to understand the complexity presented to managers in their process of managing people across national and cultural borders, addressing the issues of the impact of culture on management structures and processes. It will provide understanding of the role which cross-cultural management and international human resource management can play in achieving competitive advantage in international business. There is growing evidence that many international firms face considerable difficulties in implementing the strategies they have determined. A strong focus of this module is therefore towards increasing the understanding of the role of international management in the implementation of international strategies. It will develop intellectual capacities in applying advanced concepts to practical situations, and in reflecting usefully on both the situations and the concepts.

  • Class code: WE302
  • Level: 3
  • Semester (including exams): 2 (January - May)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: Some previous study in HRM would be beneficial but is not essential.
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials, Group Work, Practical, Private Study

Class descriptor

The overarching aim of this module is to ensure that students have the opportunity to explore and develop a critical understanding of key developments and debates in contemporary Human Resource Management – and expose them to cutting-edge research by academics within the department.
The lectures still highlight key theories, research, debates and policy/practice issues, including: the changing context of work and employment; remote work; gendered organisations; sustainability of work and environment in the modern economy; wellbeing and HRM practices; the future workforce jobs and skills; people analytics; HRM in times of crisis.

  • Class code: WE314
  • Level: 3
  • Semester (including exams): 2 (January - May)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: It is recommended that students will have taken an introductory class in HRM
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials, Fieldwork, Group Work, Private Study, Supervised time in Studio/Workshop

Class descriptor

The Events Sector is gaining increasing attention by academics as it is predicted to grow at a CAGR of 21.3% and reach $1,337 billion by 2028 (OECD, 2021). Increasing numbers of event professionals have a personal interest in reducing the negative impacts of their events, and ‘Green issues’ are increasingly viewed as added value to the Event product. This module complements this by conceptualising events as a catalyst for social impact and progress if managed right. Combining the practical and academic aspects of event management this module centres sustainability as a business imperative for future events managers. This class equips students with the understanding of managing sustainable events. It allows students to participate in the various stages of planning events with research into selecting the right event; contacting sponsors; event themes; site selection; task and responsibility checklists; budgeting and finance; advertising and promotion; and event administration. Alongside these, this class also trains students the necessary skills of managing a complex environment which bears many sustainable challenges and prepares them to enter the profession with an understanding of the industry.

  • Class code: WE314
  • Level: 3
  • Semester (including exams): 2 (January - May)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: BF127/128 Introduction to Marketing & Entrepreneurship or equivalent
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials, Demonstration, Supervised time in Studio/Workshop, Private Study

Class descriptor

Under 40% of start-up companies survive beyond the fourth year of their establishment and entrepreneurs need to develop skills and strategies to effectively manage the short and long-term survival of their ventures. The primary task of the entrepreneur is to develop an efficient organization to manage the human, social and financial capital of the venture which can respond and adapt to external and internal changes and opportunities without losing its entrepreneurial mind-set. This requires the development of entrepreneurial strategies to support the management team and manage the financial resources, the social, network and innovation processes of the venture.
In this module students are presented with the challenges and opportunities of managing and growing the venture in a sustainable way. The course covers the management and growth phase of entrepreneurial businesses, focusing on the opportunities and challenges these businesses face beyond the start-up phase. Through course work, students will have the opportunity to assess the management practices of Scottish SMEs and consult them on their growth strategies.

Full Year - Level 2

  • Class code: AG218
  • Level: 2
  • Semester (including exams): Full academic year (September to May)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: AG111 Accounting Technologies or equivalent. Specifically, students should have previously studied the fundamentals of financial accounting, double entry bookkeeping and accounts preparation, introductory business law, and introductory cost and management accounting.
  • Teaching methods: lectures, seminars, tutorials
  • Additional Comments: Enrolment in Accounting modules at all levels requires approval by the Department of Accounting & Finance. Prerequisite regulations are strict.

Class descriptor

This class is concerned with the regulation of financial reporting. It includes the preparation of the financial statements of limited companies in line with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 and the application of the accounting standards set by the accountancy profession.
The class is intended to develop students’ understanding of the framework for financial reporting framework and its interaction with the associated legislation. Furthermore, the class will introduce some of the problems and challenges associated with financial reporting and the impact they have had in the business world. With many of the issues having no single “right” answer it is important to appreciate that this class will involve not just learning material but also understanding issues. In the examination, therefore, marks will often be awarded for your opinions (and the arguments which you put forward to support them). Students will also learn further about accounting software packages.

  • Class code: AG219
  • Level: 2
  • Semester (including exams): Full academic year (September to May)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: AG111 Accounting Technologies or equivalent. Specifically, students should have previously studied the fundamentals of financial accounting, double entry bookkeeping and accounts preparation, introductory business law, and introductory cost and management accounting.
  • Teaching methods: lectures, seminars, tutorials
  • Additional Comments: Enrolment in Accounting modules at all levels requires approval by the Department of Accounting & Finance. Prerequisite regulations are strict.

Class descriptor

This class is designed to provide the students with a deeper understanding of the concepts and practice of cost and management accounting. The aim is to provide students with the tools to enable them to use accounting information to assist management in decision-making and with the planning and controlling of an organisation’s activities.
The module structure includes: Financial vs Cost and Management Accounting; Budgets; Income effects of alternative cost accumulation systems; Activity-based costing; Cost-volume-profit analysis; Measuring relevant costs and revenues for decision-making; Pricing decisions and profitability analysis; Process costing; Joint and by-product costing; Costing; Management and control systems; Standard costing and variance analysis; Divisional financial performance measures; Transfer pricing in divisionalised companies; Strategic performance management.

Full Year - Level 3

  • Class code: AG314
  • Level: 3
  • Semester (including exams): Full academic year (September to May)
  • Credits: 20 (10 ECTS)
  • Level of study: Undergraduate
  • Prerequisites: AG218 Intermediate Financial Reporting and AG219 Cost and Management Accounting, or equivalent
  • Teaching methods: Lectures, Seminars/Tutorials, Private Study
  • Additional Comment: Enrolment in Accounting modules at all levels requires approval by the Department of Accounting & Finance. Prerequisite regulations are strict.

Class descriptor

The main areas of taxation covered will be Income Tax, Taxation of Partnerships, Capital Gains Tax, Corporation Tax, Inheritance Tax. In addition, the principles of VAT and NIC (National Insurance Contributions) will be studied.

Some classes have syllabus listed within the module catalogue: