Project Management - Liverpool John Moores University

PROGRAMME DETAIL SPECIFICATION
Programme Summary
1 Awarding institution Liverpool John Moores University
2 Teaching institution university DUBLIN BUSINESS SCHOOL
3a Programme accredited by:
3b Description of accreditation
Liverpool John Moores University/HETAC
DBS is accredited by HETAC/LJMU to deliver Masters
in Business Administration (Project Management)
4 Final award Master of Business Administration in Project
Management
5 Programme title MBA.Project Management
6 UCAS code
7 Subject benchmark statement General Business & Management type 2 (general
masters degrees for career entry)
8 Educational aims of the programme
Application of business knowledge required for students to perform as an effective manager in any organisation.
The evaluation and application of important global management issues which impact on organisational
effectiveness and performance.
The synthesis and application of cross-functional capabilities and transferable skills within the business activities
of private, public and not for-profit organisations, both nationally and internationally.
Develop students' skills in the presentation and communication of information within a problem solving 'team'
environment under time pressure.
Critically evaluate the central role of Strategy for the growth and development of all organisations.
The synthesis of management and business principles to facilitate personal, academic and professional
development.
Synthesise and apply learning and skills in the production of an independent piece of research work
(Dissertation).
Provide a basis for practice, continual personal development and learning throughout students' careers.
Critically evaluate the importance of the project and it's management in the modern organizational context.
Critically evaluate the established and emerging project management theories.
9 Intended learning outcomes - the programme provides opportunities for students to develop and
demonstrate knowledge and understanding, skills, qualities and other attributes in the following areas:
Intended Learning Outcomes summary
Knowledge and understanding
A1. The integration of management concepts and business philosophies, along with its theoretical and practical
significance in today's global environment.
A2. The analysis of the principles and practice of International business operations, managing information,
finance and international management, trade and commerce on a global basis.
A3. The importance of technological skills and the application of research strategies in effective management
decision-making.
A4. The integration and consolidation of subject areas along with their importance to decision-making.
A5. The application of management 'tools' in making strategic decisions.
A6. Development of a research strategy to resolve a business problem or issue.
A7. The development of a Dissertation relating to a major business problem or issue.
A8. The key principles and practices related to the effective professional practice as a project manager.
A9. The wide range of professional and ethical issues and responsibilities that relate to the working role of being
a project manager in a technical or business environment.
Teaching, learning and assessment methods used to enable outcomes to be achieved and
demonstrated
Programme: 23238-2000003240 Plan: 01.01 Start date of programme - plan: 01-AUG-09

Teaching and learning strategies are based on a combination of structured tuition and student centred learning.
Methods adopted include lecture, tutorial, practical, workshops, assignments, case study, video, group work
discussion and 'real world' business issues. An integral part of the programme is the inclusion of guest speakers
to augment and support the teaching faculty. The overall teaching and learning approach is intended to facilitate
students taking ownership and responsibility for their own learning.
Assessment
A variety of assessment methods are deployed throughout the programme. These methods include problem
solving exercises, practical projects, case studies, research-based projects, literature reviews, academic essays,
reports and closed and open book examinations.
Reflective analysis of learning is central to the programme and students are required to demonstrate
improvement in learning and performance via the Research Skills Analysis module.
All are tested formatively through contributions to discussions and direct contact with tutors and peers in group
discussion. Summative assessments are conducted either by coursework's and/or examination. A6 is assessed
by the production of a research plan and proposal and A7 by the Dissertation.
Materials required to support and inform learners to achieve all outcomes, are provided throughout the
programme and include books, journal articles and case studies, as well as tutor notes. Information resources
are accessed via the virtual learning environment and all modules are web-supported, which provide links to a
wide range of business information resources.
Intellectual Skills
Skills and other attributes
B1. Critically analyze in-depth complex managerial issues in a systematic way using imaginative and
independent thinking.
B2. Integrate and rigorously evaluate business management disciplines using a variety of sources.
B3. Identify problems and draw reasoned conclusions from structured and unstructured data.
B4. Appraise and analyse in-depth quantitative, qualitative and multi-source data.
B5. Synthesize theoretical concepts to critically appraise organisational management.
B6. Utilise problem solving and decision making skills.
B7. Plan conduct and report on a business issue or problem.
B8. Analyse and manage risk relating to the operation of a project.
B9. Utilise suitable configuration control and change management procedures within the context of a project.
Teaching, learning and assessment methods used to enable outcomes to be achieved and
demonstrated
The assessment methodology, as defined above, provides opportunities for students to demonstrate knowledge
and skills. Classroom activities will support students in their application of learning to simulated business. In
addition, guest speakers will deliberate on real world issues.
Assessment
Intellectual skills are assessed via coursework and examinations. Coursework allow students to demonstrate
skills of analysis and synthesis and the ability to structure and present their findings in a logical and coherent
manner. Examinations provide students with the opportunity to demonstrate their ability to apply relevant
knowledge and argument in a time-constrained environment.
Professional practical skills
C1. Demonstrate effective and professional communication and problem solving skills.
C2. Select effective information collection methods and appropriate analytical tools.
C3. Critically apply concepts and knowledge to contribute to organisational issues.
C4. Ability to select and utilise management tools in the construction of business projects and decision-making.
C5. Articulate conclusions and recommendations based on evidence that is subject to well developed critical
appraisal and imaginative judgement.
C6. Apply independent learning through reflections and independent thinking when making critical appraisals.
C7. Critically evaluate and use of relevant research methods (qualitative and quantitative) in contributing to a
strategic decision.
C8. Plan and conduct research within the parameters of ethical guidelines and sensitivity.
C9. Select and apply appropriate quality management systems and procedures to achieve required project
quality objectives.
Programme: 23238-2000003240 Plan: 01.01 Start date of programme - plan: 01-AUG-09

C10. Select and apply appropriate techniques and tools to plan, monitor and control all aspects of a project in a
range of technical and business settings.
C11. Apply good practice in the selection of project staff and the leadership of the project team.
Teaching, learning and assessment methods used to enable outcomes to be achieved and
demonstrated
Students will produce course work that predominantly relates to case study scenarios, thereby linking theory to
practice. Throughout students will critically reflect on their learning process.
Assessment
All practical skills are assessed through a variety of assessment methods including examinations, coursework
assignments requiring demonstration of such skills, projects, presentations and formal reports. The students will
investigate a business or management problem/issue that require independent research and the synthesis of
acquired knowledge and data to address the problem.
Transferable / key skills
D1. Synthesise journal articles and other materials (written and oral) in a independent manner.
D2. Utilise problem solving skills with an ability to prioritise work under time pressure and as a group.
D3. Work competently using ICT resources, including software, the internet and project management specific
resources in a professional manner.
D4. Use imaginative and innovative thinking in both problem solving and decision-making activities.
D5. Progression and synthesis of Personal Development Planning throughout the programme.
D6. Develop personal reflective skills and communication skills, on a continuous basis through individual and
group work.
D7. Develop specific analytical skills in project management.
Teaching, learning and assessment methods used to enable outcomes to be achieved and
demonstrated
Transferable skills are generally incorporated within modules and related to relevant assessments as
appropriate. Students will be provided with support during induction and throughout the programme in the
development of key skills which culminates in the production of a Personal Development Portfolio and the
Dissertation.
Assessment
The nature of classroom sessions is devised to create an interactive experience, with group activities playing a
large part in the delivery. Students will be expected to undertake work in their own time and, given the applied
approach to assessment this will demand a degree of self management. A fluency in mainstream analytical
software will be required for which DBS provides training and support.
Transferable skills will be important in providing students with the increased confidence and ability to address
business problems. Where ICT packages are used there is an expectation that these will form part of the
assessment submission. Other skills will be imbedded into specific modules.
The final outcome of transferable skills will be the production of a 20,000 word dissertation.
10. Route/Pathway/Field requirements, levels, modules, credits and awards
The programme is a two year part time or one year full time programme, totalling 180 credits.
Students must pass all taught modules (120 credits) before commencing the dissertation.
Award Requirements
Master of Business Administration in Project Management
Postgraduate Diploma in Project Management
Postgraduate Certificate in Project Management
For information about awards, see http://www.ljmu.ac.uk/Academic_Enhancement/121984.htm
Level 7 Potential Awards on completion Master of Business Administration
Core Option Award Requirements
7509ME STRATEGIC
MANAGEMENT
7501MI RESEARCH SKILLS
ANALYSIS
180 core credits at level 7
0 option credits at level 7
0 elective credits at level 7
Programme: 23238-2000003240 Plan: 01.01 Start date of programme - plan: 01-AUG-09

7503MI INTERNATIONAL
BUSINESS AND TRADE
7504MI DISSERTATION:
INTERNATIONAL MBA
7500MY INTERNATIONAL
MANAGEMENT
7515PD PROJECT MANAGEMENT
PLANNING AND CONTROL
7516PD PROJECT MANAGEMENT
TOOLS AND TECHNIQUES
11 Opportunities for work-related learning ( location and nature of activities)
12 Criteria for admission
Other
A minimum Second Class Honours (2.2) from a recognised third level institution or equivalent qualification.
Overseas qualifications
An IELTS score of a minimum 6.0 or equivalent, where full-time study has been conducted in a language other
than English or applicants whose first language is not English.
13 Information about assessment regulations
Assessment rules:
Students will be assessed in accordance with the DBS Assessment Regulations, as approved by LJMU.
Details of assessment process are in the student handbook and in each module guide.
Summary of grades, marks and their interpretation:
The pass mark for all modules is 40%
A student who successfully completes the MBA may be awarded an MBA with Distinction where he/she
achieves:
An award of at least 70%;
or the majority of credits have been gained with a mark of at least 70%
Where the total number of credits gained exceeds that required for a particular award then the modules selected
for calculation of the average mark will be those producing the highest possible award mark consistent with the
regulations governing the MBA programme.
Role of External Examiners:
A team of external examiners will be appointed to monitor and evaluate the programme. Their role is to:
Provide advice to the programme team,
Moderate the marking of assessments including dissertations,
Attend programme boards and examination boards,
Provide annual reports on quality and standards of the assessment processes and documentation,
Provide input into new programme design or programme review.
14 Indicators of quality:
15 Support for students and their learning
Induction Programme,
Student handbook,
Use of Virtual Learning Environment,
Access to tutors via email or phone (module leader contact information is provided in the student handbook),
Access to Learning resources, including Library and ICT,
Formally elected participant representatives who are members of the programme board,
Individual tutorial and counselling is available from the Programme Leader and Module Leaders providing both
pastoral and academic support,
Programme: 23238-2000003240 Plan: 01.01 Start date of programme - plan: 01-AUG-09

Administration support is provided by DBS through the Programme Coordinator,
Institutional support mechanisms are available which includes welfare, careers, counselling and learning and
academic support classes.
During the induction process, students are provided with the following:
Programme handbook,
Academic timetables,
Module Assessment criteria,
School regulations and procedures.
During their programme of study students are provided with an academic support service in the form of
workshops and tutorials focused on academic learning issues such as language and terminology.
16 Methods for evaluating and improving the quality and standards of teaching and learning
Subject standards for all taught programmes of study are specified using an outcome based learning module
proforma.
Attainment is measured against the standard and individual student performance is moderated at examination
boards. This involves both internal moderation by DBS staff and external moderation by External Examiners.
Internal annual programme self-assessment is informed by broad ranging student feedback gathered through
class representatives and formal student surveys. External examiners provide feedback throughout the
academic year on assessment and examination papers and marking standards. External examiners attend
examination boards and provide a formal report at the end of each academic year.
External quality assessment by LJMU and the Higher Education and Training Awards Council (HETAC) confirms
that standards are set at the appropriate level and that quality of learning opportunities are subject to continuing
improvement.
The External examiner confirms that the standards of student performance are comparable with similar
programmes and subjects in other H E institutions with which they are familiar.
The quality of teaching and learning is assured through staff review and staff development in learning, teaching
and assessment and peer observation.
Developments in teaching and learning methods are detailed in the annual DBS report to LJMU:
Committees with responsibility for monitoring and evaluating quality and standards:
Programme Team,
Programme Board,
Subject Group Forum,
Examination Board,
Executive Board,
Academic Planning and Development Committee (ACPAD),
Academic Board.
Mechanisms for gaining Student Feedback on the quality of learning and their teaching experience:
Through elected student representatives,
Programme leader and student representative meetings,
Attendance at programme board meetings,
Formal student feedback surveys.
Staff development priorities include:
The use of practitioners is an important aspect of the programme with staff developing a team approach to
teaching. Guest speakers are an integral part of module delivery. Staff individual needs are discussed with
Heads of Department who manage resources for staff to attend relevant academic and personal development
programmes and conferences. DBS provide research and development seminars which provide a forum for staff
discussion of their research and teaching related activities. This facilitates the dissemination of experience and
good practice. A number of specific staff developments activities have been established to cover new initiatives
such as Moodle, Induction and assessment issues. Staff development is underpinned through:
Peer observation,
Staff appraisal,
Participation in team and Programme Board Meetings,
Programme: 23238-2000003240 Plan: 01.01 Start date of programme - plan: 01-AUG-09

Participate in department and subject group meetings.
Subject standards for all taught programmes of study are specified using an outcome based learning model.
Attainment is measured against the standard and individual student performance is moderated at assessment
boards. This involves both internal moderation (by LJMU staff and/or partner institution staff) and external
moderation (by External Examiners). Internal annual programme self-assessment is informed by broad ranging
student feedback, external examiners and academic staff who conduct module review. External quality
assessment by Professional Statutory Regulatory Bodies and the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher
Education confirms that standards are set at the appropriate level and that quality of learning opportunities are
subject to continuing improvement. The quality of teaching is assured through staff review and staff development
in learning, teaching and assessment. Designated committees have responsibility for the oversight of processes
wherein quality and standards are evaluated and improved.
Please note: This specification provides a concise summary of the main features of the programme and the
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 learning
outcomes, content, teaching, learning and assessment methods of each module can be found in the student
module guide and course handbook. The accuracy of the information contained in this document is reviewed by
the University and may be checked by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education.
17 Key sources of information about the course can be found in:
Definitive programme validation Documents,
Student Handbook,
Dublin Business School Prospectus,
The DBS web-site http://www.web.dbs.edu/
The Virtual Learning Environment (Moodle) is increasingly used to provide module specific information.
Further details may be obtained from a series of handbooks for students that together provide comprehensive
information. Detailed programme information is contained in definitive documentation for the programme. The
Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) is increasingly used to provide module specific information.
18 Progress Files
Increasingly, academic guidance is provided within a framework of personal development planning linked to
progress review.
Programme: 23238-2000003240 Plan: 01.01 Start date of programme - plan: 01-AUG-09