RDI MBA Prospectus

8/13/2019 RDI MBA Prospectus

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UK universityawarded MBAprogrammes

delivered by

online distance learning

MBA Prospectus


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ContentsThe value of your MBA

Learning Without Boundaries

Achieve Your Goals

University Partners

ilearn

Careers

What could a distance learning qualification achieve for me?

Funding Your Studies

Academic Faculties

Frequently Asked Questions

The Money Back Guarantee

Applying Couldnt Be Easier

About Us

MBA Programmes

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5

7

8

10

11

14

16

17

18

23

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is the worlds largest independent

provider of UK university distance

learning education. There are noboundaries to your success with .


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MBA ProgrammesBusiness and Management faculty

24 MBA University of Bradford

40 Graduate Diploma in Management Anglia Ruskin University

41 Certificate of Higher Education in Management Anglia Ruskin University

42 MBA (Top-Up) University of Sunderland

44 BTEC Level 7 Diploma/Extended Diploma in Strategic Edexcel

Management & Leadership

46 MBA Anglia Ruskin University

48 MBA (Management Consultancy) Anglia Ruskin University

50 MBA (Project Management) Anglia Ruskin University

52 MBA (Human Resource Management) Anglia Ruskin University

54 MBA (Service Excellence) Anglia Ruskin University

56 MBA (Marketing) Anglia Ruskin University

Finance and Law faculty

58 MBA (Law) Anglia Ruskin University

60 MBA (Finance) Anglia Ruskin University

Information correct at time of publication: 25/11/2013 Please check our website for latest information: www.rdi.co.uk


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2 FREEphone 0800 COURSES/0800 268 7737 www.rdi.co.uk/apply [email protected]

The value of your MBAAn MBA is a highly recognised qualification that will equip you with managerial

capabilities that are crucial in the current global environment and will help you

maximize your potential. An MBA will provide you with insights into key areas

of the business, and an exposure to strategic thinking that will enhance your

employability.

Taking on the challenges of an MBA means a certain

level of personal investment, so we understand that youneed to consider the long-term benefits before making

a commitment. There are a variety of advantages that

our students receive as a return on their investment:

Proven advantages of your MBA

Career prospects and salary increase:According

to research conducted with AMBA recognised MBA

graduates, 79% of them chose an MBA to enhance

their career opportunities. After achieving this

qualification, many students leave with a much clearer

perspective on their career path and launch themselves

into new successful business projects. In addition,

many employers acknowledge the commitment and

perseverance of an MBA student, often leading to

enhanced accountability and subsequent monetary

rewards. Research also shows that 33% of MBA students

notice an immediate increase in salary, 92% increase

within the following 5 years and 151% increase within

6-10 years after graduation*.

Networking:In the current global setting, is highly

aware of the need for students to facilitate connections

with both academics and professionals. These will be the

people who help you strengthen and grow the circles

that will shape your career. ilearn our virtual campus

establishes easy interaction with peers and is theplatform where you can raise questions join discussions

about your studies or more general business themes.

Moreover, the IMA and Careers Portal inspire students

to come together, and provides regular career updates

from reputable industry sources.

Personal growth and international perspective:

Our tutors and student support coordinators are

experienced and approachable and will help you

engage with the study materials in order to reach

the goals you set yourself. The assessment process iscustomised to give you the opportunity to apply the

knowledge acquired into your everyday career often

making business improvements along the way. Through

your MBA you will develop project management

and problem solving skills that you can use to gain a

strategic perspective in your working environment.

Industry experience and diversity are key components

of an MBA and we find that our students graduate with

an increased level of confidence, and are more able to

participate in the decision making process, implement

changes and manage increased levels of responsibility.

*source: www.ambaguide.com


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3FREEphone 0800 COURSES/0800 268 7737 www.rdi.co.uk/apply [email protected]

Wayne Harris, 53, MBA

Gaining my MBA has

raised my prole within

the working environment,

it has also been a topic of

discussion amongst friends

and family. Certain career

opportunities have been

presented directly as a

result of this study period.


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Masialeti, MSc Information Technology

I believe distance learning is a

benet, 100%. If you are working

full time and want to continue

pursuing your higher education,

distance learning is the best way.


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Learning without Boundaries

We recognise that people are individuals who

need different things to succeed.

Over the years weve broken down all the barriers to

allow you to succeed whatever your circumstances.

Before commencing their studies, some of our students

understandably lack confidence in their ability to

succeed. Others are unsure about how to fund their

studies or whether they can cope with their studies and

their lifestyle. So, along with our university partners, we

have designed our distance learning programmes tooffer you the flexibility required to balance your studies

with your work and lifestyle commitments.

For example, you have the option to study anywhere

in the world. You may also need to take a short break

from your studies for family or work reasons. You can

do that without prejudicing yourself. Unless specifically

stated, there is no classroom attendance requirement

but you can log-on to the virtual learning environment

and receive support from tutors and other students,

from anywhere in the world. We even help you to

spread the cost of your studies with no deposit and

flexible payment options. Not forgetting the simplicity

and reassurance of our 30 day no quibble money backguarantee. The vast majority of our students work while

they learn, applying what they learn on a daily basis,

advancing their career throughout their studies.

is well known for providing friendly, professional

advice and support from initial enquiry through to

graduation. For the Bradford MBA, comprehensive

support is provided by the university. We promise that

you will receive superior support throughout your

studies, as we believe your success is our success.

Study with and you can be assured that our professional and caring approach

to supporting our distance learners will help you to achieve an internationally

recognised university or professional qualification.

of students withnd their

course to be of a

high quality*

93%

* Student Survey, June 2013


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of students

said their careerhas progressed asa direct result of

their studies*

71%

* Student Survey, January 2011


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Achieve your goals

Choosing which qualification to study can sometimes

be a difficult process and understandably you want to

get it right. Expert advisors are available to provide you

with detailed information about all of the programmes,

to assist you through the application process, to help

you with funding choices and lifestyle decisions, and

then to support you throughout your studies all the way

to graduation. Uniquely, if you begin your studies with

and change your mind for any reason within the first

30 days, simply ask and well give you your money back

with our no quibble guarantee, ensuring you are in

control every step of the way.

All the Diplomas, Degrees and Masters qualifications

we offer have the same status as those studied on a

University campus. On enrolment you become a student

of the university of your choice with all the benefits

associated with this status, and you are invited to attend

your University to collect your degree certificate at your

graduation ceremony.

You already know that investing in yourself is one of the

best investments you can ever make. It is also accepted

that a qualification enhances your career and long term

earning potential but you may not know that a distance

learning qualification studied with has other added

benefits.

distance learning programmes are designed to allowyou to contextualise and apply your learning to your

job as you study. This not only enhances your learning

it also develops your skills. These are valuable

attributes to an employer.

Employers recognise that employees or potential

employees who have studied by distance learning are

likely to be more focused and dedicated than those

who have studied on campus.

is the worlds largest independent provider of UK university distance learning

education. There are no boundaries to your success with .

Whether its a new career, an increase in salary or a desire to broaden your horizons and learn something new, you

can achieve your goals with a university distance learning qualification.

With over 20 years of experience supporting over 50,000 distance learning university students in the UK and around

the world, enrolling 4,000 new students each year, 90% of whom combine work with their studies, we know exactly

what it takes for you to achieve success.


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University PartnersFor over 20 years RDI has partnered with a number of UK universities to deliver their courses by

distance learning. Further details on our current UK university partners offering MBAs can be

found below:

Bradford UniversitySchool of

Management

As one of the worlds leading business schools, Bradford

University School of Management is recognised for the

quality, flexibility of its programme and future earning

power of its graduates. Thats why Bradford University

School of Management has the Triple Crown of

accreditations and is ranked 11th in the UK and a Top 40

European business school by the Financial Times.

Anglia RuskinUniversity

Anglia Ruskin University has a history dating back to

1858, and is one of the largest universities in the East

of England. The University has four academic faculties

offering a range of high-quality undergraduate and

postgraduate courses, as well as a number of research

qualifications.

The University has a fast-growing reputation for research

and the Governments 2008 Research Assessment

Exercise (RAE) rated 8 areas of our research activity as

world-leading.

Over the past few years Anglia Ruskin University has

been at the forefront of a number of cutting edge

partnerships including the MedTech Campus and ICENI

campus with its world-class training centre for keyhole

surgery. The University also has strong links with

industry employers, including Harrods, Barclays, RAF,UPS and Volvo.

Anglia Ruskin University graduates are in great demand.

Four out of five go into jobs classified as professional or

managerial and the number of students starting their

own businesses is also increasing year on year.

Anglia Ruskin University also has an award winning

Student Services Team who were recognised as the

best in the country at the 2012 Times Higher Education

Awards.


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University PartnersUniversity ofSunderland

Innovate. Create. Graduate.

The University of Sunderland is an innovative, forward-

thinking university with high standards of teaching,

research and support that sits at the heart of one of the

UKs most up and coming cities. We have strong links

with industry and business and work closely with some

of the worlds leading companies. Testament to our

growing reputation, the University was nominated for

University of the Year in 2013 ( Times Higher Education

Awards)

Our Faculty of Business and Law is recognised

worldwide; with students from over 70 countries and a

presence on three continents, we are playing a major

part in preparing tomorrows leaders for a successful

career.

Sunderland Business School has a reputation for

delivering programmes influenced by the latest businessand management theory and practice. Degree courses

covering a range of business functions ensure that as

a graduate you are equipped with the knowledge and

skills needed to find graduate level employment or set

up your own business. We believe that employability

is at the heart of the university experience, and this is

underpinned by the drive to develop six key attributes in

our graduates: capable, enquiring, creative, enterprising,

ethical and global in outlook. A global institution

but with local roots Sunderland Business School was

voted Number 1 in the North East of England in 2012(Guardian University Guide)

Whatever your future ambitions, make a life-changing

decision by choosing to study a business programme

with the University of Sunderland and see where your

career could lead you.

Edexcel

Edexcel are the UKs largest awarding body who areaccredited by the UK Governments Qualifications

and Curriculum Authority (QCA) to award a range

of qualifications. Edexcel operates in 112 countries

and every year more than four million people study

its internationally recognised qualifications. Edexcel

offer a wide variety of both vocational and general

qualifications, including BTEC with more than 500,000

students studying these programmess each year.

Edexcel BTEC qualifications are accepted by all UK

Universities for direct entry with advanced standing on

to their degree programmes.


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ilearnilearn is our custom designed virtual learning environment allowing you access

to your course learning materials, library and research facility, and peer-to-peer

discussions led by expert academics.

ilearn is great because it brings

everything together in one place

materials, students, forums, tutor

contact, external resources everything!

Based on over 20 years of experience of helping people

like you study successfully by distance learning,

launched its ilearn learning platform in 2007 andhas continued to lead the development of flexible

modern learning to continuously improve your learning

experience.

ilearn is ...

Home to over 8,000 current students in 150 countries

worldwide

Where students are engaged by expert academic

support who bring the subjects to life through on-line

discussions, workshops and feedback

The only place for students oering materials,

assessment, tutor access, study groups and

interaction with other students

Being able to access your materials 24/7 - tting your

studies around your life

A positive mix of individuals, ideas and networks you

can join

Constantly updated and rened to ensure the beststudent experience possible

One of the many reasons why students choose to

study with and succeed to graduation

There to support you and ensure you are condent

in your studies - with Student Support coordinators

there to help you progress and enjoy your time as a

student

Inspirational, Interactive and International

The flexibility and powerful simplicity of ilearn is

perfect for people with family commitments, careers

or even first-time learners who have little experience

of the online world. We offer a full ilearn induction to

all students, building your confidence and ensuring

you know how to utilise ilearn to your advantage. The

built-in study manager offers you a consistent check on

key deadlines and updates from your online tutors and

events, so that you can plan your study time effectively.

You can try Online Learning now at: rdi.co.uk/explore.

A students point of view

Speaking to a colleague also doing a Masters

degree, I found it interesting the differences

between our courses. She had to print, bind

and post her essay 4 days before the deadline

to make sure it was delivered. As satisfying as

the feeling is when binding and posting your

essay, I must admit the process where I amable to login (at any time) and just click the

submit button is wonderful. Within seconds

you feel the adrenalin leaving your body and

you can sit down without worrying about the

work getting lost in the post.

And what if I need to make a change? No

problem, make the change to the document.

Save it and upload it again.

Emma, MBA
http://www.rdi.co.uk/explorehttp://www.rdi.co.uk/explore


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Careersis committed to giving you the best value for money, not only helping you to

achieve your UK university qualification, but to see tangible results in your career.

All students now have access to our new Careers Development Centre- available

to you as part of your studies and easily accessible through ilearn.

s Careers Development Centregives you access tothe most effective resources to help you secure your

new career or next promotion.

Packed with e-learning, job opportunities,

interactive training resources, CV builders,

company research tools and the latest insight from

hiring managers from a vast range of employers,

the Careers Development Centreallows you

to:

Track jobs from thousands of job-boards, employers

and recruiters in one go, saving you time registering

on multiple sites

Learn secrets for hiring managers in hundreds of

videos revealing the tricks they use and the

techniques to persuade them

Create a winning CV that gets you to interview

Improve your interview condence and competence

with the brand new Interview Simulator

Be inspired by thousands of real-life career stories

Research companies and people using the latest

databases

Take the A-Z of tutorials tackling negotiation,

recruitment consultants, LinkedIn, online profiles,

the hidden job-market, body language, confidence,

presentation skills, telephone skills and hundreds

more

Develop your skills and chart your progress


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Learning that impacts yourcareer from the start

I got the courage to start

my own business and putinto practice what Id learnt

on my course. I havent

looked back. Two years

down the line, my companys

just turned over 310,000,

and should do more than

500,000 this year. Without

RDI, I wouldnt be where I am

today.

Samuel, MBA


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How could

a universitydistance

learning

qualicationbenet me?

Self-improvement, higher

qualifications, an increased

salary and a better job are theobvious benefits.

But it isnt just about money

and jobs, it is also about

feeling good about yourself

by fulfilling your potential and

proving to yourself that youvegot what it takes.


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Amanda Yeats, Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership

The main benets are that I can study

when I have spare time and I dont need

to take time out of my work day.

Hopefully this qualication will give me a

good grounding going forwards.

So what would gaining a UK university qualification do

for you and your career? Students have to consider what

they have to invest now against the benefits they hope

to gain during and after study plus years later in their

lives.

At we work hard to reduce the costs of investing now

and increase the long-term benefits of study. We reduce

your costs through low fees, pay-as-you-go options, and

earning whilst you learn. PLUS, we increase your benefits

through UK university qualification, student network,

careers service and IMA membership.

Our students tell us they experience many benefits both

during their studies and on graduation.

Increased condence

A promotion

Involvement

A new career

A pay increase

Job security

Life changing

New job

Flexible study

Future investment


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Funding your StudiesThere are no barriers to funding a distance learning programme with . Its

entirely up to you whether you pay in full or spread the cost of your studies.

We offer you easy payment options to make gaining a

university qualification more affordable:

1. Pay-as-you-go

2. Employer sponsorship

3. Tesco Rewards

We have expert advisors available to help you decide

whats best for you and then to help complete any

paperwork. A large proportion of our students are

sponsored by their employer and we are happy to

engage with your employer and answer all of their

questions.

Pay-as-you-go

offers instalment payment plans for most

programmes. Payment amounts and frequency vary,depending on the awarding university or institution.

Some programmes allow payment on a per module

basis. We accept all major debit/credit cards.

Employer Sponsorship

Many companies are willing to fully or partly sponsor

their employees. Try talking to your training manager

or human resources director. Many of our students

find that their employers are impressed with the self-discipline and commitment shown by an employee who

completes a distance learning programme in order to

further their career.

We are happy to answer any questions your employer

may have and even talk to your employer direct.

Tesco Rewards

You can now study towards your university degree or

MBA with Tesco Reward vouchers through .

View courses eligible for Tesco Rewards at:

www.rdi.co.uk/tesco

Money Back Guarantee*

Our promise to you. If youre still unsure

about taking that next step, then consider

this. If during the first 30 days of your studies

you are not completely satisfied you can

claim a full refund of your fee. So what do you

have to lose by applying?

*Terms and conditions apply

Call us now for more information on

FREEphone 0800 COURSES / 0800 268 7737

Bernadatte, HND Business

The nancial options offered

by RDI are great, and make

it affordable for anyone

deciding to study with them.

In particular, the modular

payments make the course

nancially manageable as well!


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Academic faculties

Business & Management

The Business & Management Faculty offers a complete

range of courses allowing access to internationally

recognised programmes for every level of experience.

From a selection of general and specialist MBAs, to

Masters courses, postgraduate diplomas, degrees, HNDs

and certificates, we can help you succeed in business.

Finance & Law

The Faculty of Finance and Law offers both

undergraduate and postgraduate awards designed to

take you to the next level in your career.

From diplomas to three year bachelors degrees, top up

degrees and MBAs, we can offer the right course for your

finance or law career.

Computing & Media

The Faculty of Computing & Media offers a range of

specialist and broad awards designed to match your

career goals and todays competitive IT marketplace.

From highly specialist courses in Telecommunications

and Graphic Design, through to increasingly popular

courses in Information Technology and Computing, we

can offer access from HND and degree to Masters.


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Frequently Asked QuestionsSome frequently asked questions and answers follow. Should you have any other

questions please call one of our programme advisors on

FREEphone 0800 COURSES / 0800 268 7737

Application and enrolment

Q: Will I be able to aord it? How do I pay?

A: Theres good evidence that getting a university

qualification leads to better career prospects

and a higher salary. Paying for higher education

is an investment in your future. Of course, we

understand its a big commitment, so we suggest

you look at the various funding options available

on page 16.

Q: What do the fees include?

A: We want to make sure there are no hidden extras.

So our fees include:

all the study materials you need and student

handbooks

your tutors, who you can contact on ilearn or by

email whenever you need to

your student support co-ordinator, who you can

contact by email or phone whenever you need

to

access to our virtual learning environment,

ilearn

an online induction process.

Q: I have plenty of work experience in my area of

interest but no real qualications. Can I still

apply?

A: For many of our courses, experience can be just

as valuable as qualifications, so you might not be

at a disadvantage. We look at your application on

its own merits. Please call us on the number at the

top of the page if youre not sure whether youll be

eligible or not.

Q: I already have a qualication. Will this

qualication allow me to gain exemptions from

the course and will the cost be reduced?

A: It depends on your particular course, and again,we look at your application on its own merits. The

best way to find out is to apply. We can sometimes

shorten the course if youve got a previous

qualification, or even relevant work experience,

but cant necessarily reduce the cost of the course.

Visit our website: www.rdi.co.uk/apply

Email [email protected]

Contact us today on FREEphone0800 COURSES / 0800 268 7737

Apply Online

Email Us

Call Us


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Studying and study materials

Q: How does distance learning work?

A: With distance learning, you follow a UK university

course without the need to visit a campus. You

study anywhere in the world, whenever its

convenient for you. And you choose the pace

youre comfortable with. We provide you with all

the study materials you need, tutors for academic

support, and a student support co-ordinator

who will help make your studying successful and

enjoyable.

Online distance learning makes studying flexible,

affordable and interactive. For most of our courses,

youll use our virtual learning environment, ilearn,

to access study materials, assignments, past papers

and our online library, as well as make contact with

your tutors and other students.

Q: Are the study materials text-based or online?

A: It depends on your particular course. Usually its

one or the other; sometimes its a bit of both. If

theyre not online, we courier study materials to

you. Dont worry, youll get everything you need to

complete your course successfully.

Q: Do I need a computer?

A: We do recommend youre online for all of

our courses, and there are specific software

requirements for some of them. Please call us

on the number at the top of the page for more

information.

Q: Will there be any classroom lectures or

workshops? Will I be able to meet my tutor

face-to-face?

A: Unless your particular course mentions it, there

are no lectures or workshops. All of our courses

are set up for distance learning. But youll be able

to contact your tutors or student support co-

ordinator whenever you need to.

Q: How long does it take?

A: It depends on your particular course, please see

the course pages for details. Generally youll spend

as much or as little time as you would if you were

doing a campus-based part-time course.

Q: I work full-time and have a family, how will I

nd the time?

A: Distance learning is all about flexibility. With all of

our courses, you can fit your studies around your

work and personal commitments. You can study

from as little as eight hours per week depending

on your course. If you need to take a break from

your studies, your student support co-ordinatorwill be there to help.

You will set your own pace. Many of our students

have work and family commitments. Read what

some of them have to say.

Q: Can I study anywhere in the world?

A: Yes, you can study wherever you are in the world.

You normally have to go to a campus to sit your

exams, but we can arrange a local venue if youre

not in the UK.

Q: Will my qualication be the same one as

campus students get?

A: Yes, you get the same qualification and certificate

you would have got if youd studied on campus at

your chosen university.

Q: How many hours per week should I devote?

A: It depends on your particular course, but we

recommend between 8 and 15 hours. You need

to be able to plan your time well and keep the

momentum going. Regular study is much moreeffective than heavy but discontinuous periods

of study. You should spend as much time on your

study as you would if you were doing a campus-

based part-time course.

Q: What if I need more time to complete my

studies, can I take a break?

A: If you fall behind, become ill, relocate or need

to take a break from your studies for some other

reasons, well always do our best to accommodate

you. Your student support co-ordinator will be

there to explain your options.

Q: What happens if I fail something?

A: Dont worry, if you fail an assessment, youre

usually allowed to submit it again at least one

more time. Your tutor will give you detailed

feedback so you can prepare properly.

Q: How do I sit exams?

A: Some online courses are assessed online.

Otherwise students sit their exams at a relevant

university or a recognised higher educationinstitution.


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Q: Is there a graduation ceremony?

A: For most of our courses, youll be invited to a

formal graduation ceremony with all the full-time

students, usually held on the university campus.

Q: Will I be able to succeed?

A: Many thousands of people have before you.

Studying for a university qualification part-time

is a big commitment, but with the teaching and

support we give you, theres no reason why you

cant succeed. Find out how others have done it.

Q: What if I nd the course too hard?

A: We wont enrol you on a course unless were

confident you can pass it. But if you feel youve

started at the wrong level, let us know, and well

move you if we can. We also offer a unique 30-day

money back guarantee and well give you a full

refund. Please call us on the number at the top of

the page for more information.


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I nd that taking on a masters alongside a job

and normal life (yes, I do still have one of

those!) it becomes a juggling act. Usually you just

have to manage the work-life balance and mostpeople manage that pretty successfully.

Emma Cannaby, MBA Project Management


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Money Back Guarantee*

Applying couldnt be easier

Our promise to you. If youre still unsure about taking that next step, then

consider this. If during the first 30 days of your studies you are not completely

satisfied you can claim a full refund of your fee.

So what do you have to lose by applying?

*Terms and conditions apply

Visit our website: www.rdi.co.uk/apply

[email protected]

Alternatively, post your application to:RDI, Midland Management Centre, 1A Brandon Lane, Coventry CV3 3RD

Fax your application to 024 765 15701

Contact us today on FREEphone 0800 COURSES / 0800 268 7737to speak to one of our experienced, friendly programme advisors

Apply Online

Email us

Post your application

Fax us

Call us

Our Admissions Team are here to help you decide on the right course, and then to liaise with

the university on your behalf to secure your place. We will make sure that your application is

complete, with the correct supporting documents for the university that you apply to. We can

also answer questions that you have about the course content, fees, funding or assessments.

Contact them today to find out about your chosen course and securing your place.


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MBAMasters inBusiness

Administration

Bradford University

School of Management

Bradford University School of Management hasbeen providing students with an opportunity tostudy for an MBA via distance learning since 1998.Both the Masters in Business Administration and theMasters in Innovation, Enterprise and the CircularEconomy are aimed at intelligent, highly motivated

managers who wish to equip themselves with theessential business and management skills requiredin the increasingly competitive, diverse and dynamicbusiness environment. At Bradford, they appreciatethat many of their students have to juggle work andfamily commitments alongside their studies. As suchthey allow their students to develop managerial skillsand knowledge at a pace which suits their individualneeds.

Once you start on either of the distance learningMBA programmes you become part of the Bradford

University School of Management studentcommunity. Bradford has a great pride in this senseof community and throughout your studies they

ensure that you have every opportunity to developyour professional network while also learning fromthe experiences of other students. This is achievedthrough the use of small faculty led tutor groups,weekly online discussions, live face-to-face on linetutorial sessions and a distance learner online social

space called The Atrium. Further to this while youdo not have to attend any on-site teaching you willhave an opportunity to take part in face-to-faceteaching sessions with academics from the Schoolof Management in Bradford and at its partnerinstitutions in the Netherlands, Germany, Singapore,Dubai and Italy (subject to availability).

Your knowledge and understanding of each subjectarea studied will be assessed by the most appropriatemeans. This will typically involve the completion ofa written assignment, an exam or in some cases an

assignment and an exam. If you need to sit an examBradford has examination centres worldwide, makingit highly likely that there is an exam centre near you.


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Studying By Distance Learning

Undertaking a distance learning MBA at theBradford University School of Management is a

highly rewarding experience:

You will learn new skills which you can use

straight away in the work place

You will be able to use the knowledge

gained to advance your career

You will be able to develop an international

business network, learning from the

experiences of your fellow students.

Students are expected to take 2 subjects

(modules) every three months. Each module

contains 9 study units. Students typically

progress by studying 1 unit from each module

per week. This equates to approximately 14-16

hours of study per week. I f you dont think that

you have enough time to study 2 modules over

the three month period you can always chose

to study just one module, lightening your

workload considerably.

If work or family life is particularly busy then

you can even suspend your studies and restart

at a later date. This flexibility means that

students can complete the MBA in 2 to 6 years.

The Bradford MBA Learning Experience

Each module has been designed so that your

understanding and knowledge is developedthrough using a variety of materials from

textbooks and academic journal papers

through to video clips, podcasts, online

discussions and live online tutorials.

Printed Materials

For each module you will receive a textbook

or reader and a high quality study book

containing essential study notes, case

studies and short exercises to develop your

understanding. The study books are written by

academics from the Bradford University School

of Management many of whom are world

leading authorities in their subject area. Each

study book contains:

9 study units, each unit is designed to

develop your understanding of a particular

subject area.

2 optional assignments which you submit to

your tutor for feedback. These assignments

enable you to track your progress ensuringthat you understand key subject areas.

A series of short case studies and exercises

reinforcing key principles and ideas and

demonstrating how academic theory can be

put into practice.

Clear guidance on accessing additional

learning materials that will help further your

understanding and knowledge.

Tutorial Groups

While distance learning allows you to study

at a time, place and pace to suit your needs

Bradford ensure that you will never feel like you

are studying alone. When studying a module

you will be part of a small tutor group. As atutor group member you are expected to take

part in online discussions and a series of live on

line tutorials.

The Virtual Learning Environment

Bradford University School of Management

uses a virtual learning environment called

Blackboard. Each module you study will have a

dedicated Blackboard site containing:

An electronic and interactive copy of the

module study book

Guidance on the assessment used for the

module

PowerPoint slides and audio recordings

helping explain key theories and concepts

associated with the specific subject areas

Film from on-site lectures (where available)

Key readings selected by Bradford

academics from leading academic journals,

trade publications and broadsheet

newspapers

Selected audio and video clips helping

to underline your knowledge and

understanding of particular subject areas

Additional non-compulsory readings

enabling you to further engage with a

subject and advance your understanding

A comprehensive bank of multiple choice/short answer questions allowing you to

monitor your understanding and get instant

feedback on your progression

Bradford University School ofManagement Library

As a distance learning student you will have

access to the Universitys on line library

resources. This means that wherever you

are in the world you can access thousands

of academic journals, market reports and

textbooks all from your computer.

Distance learning students also have their owndedicated librarian who can provide students

with photocopies of various materials including

journal papers, book chapters and company

reports

Eective Learning Service

It may be some time since you last studied

for a formal qualification and so some of

your key learning skills such as essay writing,

critical analysis and revision may require some

attention. The School of Management Effective

Learning department can provide you with all

the help you need to overcome such obstacles.

Quick read leaflets are available with titles such

as How to Improve Your Marks and 5 Stage

Report Writing Structure. In addition to these

resources you will be regularly invited to attend

a series of live on line workshops covering key

learning skills such as essay writing and critical

analysis and you can even have a one-to-one

consultation with Bradfords effective learning

advisor, regardless of your location.

Career Development

In order to ensure that you can capitalise on

the skills and knowledge developed when

studying the MBA you will be invited to

register onto the Bradford University School

of Management MBA career development

programme. In practical terms this means that

every 3 months you will be invited to attenda live on line career development workshop.

The career development programme has been

designed to track your progress through the

MBA ensuring you develop relevant skills and

the most opportune time. Issues covered in

the workshops include Leveraging Your MBA

Promoting Your Skills Social Media and

Networking Making the Right Connections.

In addition to this each year you will be

able to access a series of live and recorded

presentations from the Bradford guest lecture

series featuring a range of eminent speakers

from various business and management

backgrounds.

International Study Opportunities

You may decide that you want to accelerate

your studies, learn about a particular subject

area, study alongside other Bradford University

School of Management students or simply

broaden your horizons and spend some time

studying overseas. You can do this by studying

certain modules over 3-5 days at the School

of Management or at any one of its partner

institutions in the Netherlands, Germany,

Singapore, Dubai and Italy. Examples of block

modules taught at these locations include

Corporate Marketing, International Business

Strategy and Mergers and Acquisitions. Accessto modules running is subject to availability.

Bradford MBA Ranking and Accreditation

Established in 1963, Bradford University School of Management is one of the oldest university-

based business schools in the UK. Through its high quality teaching and world leading research

the school has developed an enviable reputation, something clearly demonstrated through the

independent rankings and accreditation attained:

11th Business School in the UK and Top 45 in Europe (Financial Times 2012)

1st Business School in the North of England (Financial Times 2012)

One of the top 25 MBAs in Europe and top 100 worldwide (Financial Times 2012)

EQUIS accredited (European Quality Improvement System) AMBA accredited (Association of MBAs)

AACSB accredited (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business)

AMBA, Equis and AACSB accreditation means the Bradford University School of Management

is part of an elite group of business schools (less than 1% worldwide) who have the

prestigious triple crown accreditation

What do these accreditations and rankings mean to you? In short, it means that you can be

assured you will be studying a high quality, highly contemporary MBA at a genuinely world class,

globally recognised business school.


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Detailed Programme Structure

In order to complete the Bradford MBA you

will be required to complete 14 modules in

total and a 12,500-15,000 word management

project.

Cycle One

In order to provide you with a solid foundation

you will study ten compulsory modules

covering key business and managerial

disciplines. Your understanding of each

subject area will be developed through the

study books, textbooks, case studies, journal

papers, audio and video materials and ongoing

collaboration with other distance learning

students and of course your module tutor.

You will also be able to assess your progress

through the online multiple choice/short

answer questions and the two tutor marked

essays.

1. Business Accounting

Managers are required to have an

understanding of accounting and the

accountants role within an organization. The

module will provide an introduction into this

area covering issues such as:

Interpreting and evaluating accounts

Profit and loss

Cash flow and the balance sheet

Investment appraisal and return on

investment

Marginal and absorption costing

Ratios, comparisons and trends

Budgeting and control

2. Business Economics

The module provides an insight into the market

environment organizations operate in and how

market forces can impact on an organization

and the growth strategies adopted. The module

covers:

Scarcity and choice

Resource allocation and the markets

Demand and supply/cost analysis

Intervention in markets

Market structure and competition

Structure, conduct and performance of

companies and markets Market concentration and public

competition policy

Determinants of national output/income

and fluctuations in growth rates

Key economic variables: output,

employment, inflation

Government fiscal, monetary and supply

side policies

Exchange rates and the balance of payments

Globalisation, international trade and

international investment

3. Marketing

The module provides an insight into just what

marketing is along with the fundamental

marketing theories managers need to be aware

of. In addition to this the module considers

the relationship between market analysis,

organizational opportunities and threats,

marketing strategies and tactics. The module

covers:

What is the marketing concept?

Analysing the market environment and

market planning

Consumer and organizational buying

behaviour

Segmenting the market, targeting

customers and positioning the product

Marketing tactics the marketing mix

Product portfolio analysis and the product

life cycle

Branding and communicating with the

market

Marketing channels distributors and

retailers

Pricing strategies

Marketing in a international environment

4. Operations Management

The module looks at what is known as the

conversion process focusing on how materials

and products are processed within the

organization. The module covers:

The framework for operations management

and the functional interfaces

The issues of value, variety and design

Design operational systems The workings of an organization

Capacity management and operational

planning

Quality management

Purchasing and layout

Contemporary issues in operations

management

5. Managing People

Managers need to be able to understand how

to manage one of their most valuable and

important resources their employees. In

order to investigate this subject the module

draws on several disciplines includingorganizational behaviour, organizational

psychology and human resource management.

The result is a module which provides a

comprehensive insight into those factors which

influence human behaviour within the work

environment. The module covers:

Personality, perception, motivation and job

satisfaction

Group and team work

Management and leadership

Transactional and transformational

leadership

Organizational culture, structure and design

Conflict, power and politics within the

organization

Communications within the organization

MBAMasters in Business

Administration


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6. Managerial and Professional

Development

The module encourages students to adopt

an independent and reflective approach to

learning and development enabling students

to develop an awareness of their own and

others development needs. The module covers:

The role of learning and development inorganizations

The critical role of managerial skills

Learning: approaches and models

Principles of personal development

Professional and management development

Career development

Developing self-awareness

Reflective practice

7. Business Research

In order to assess new business opportunities

or potential future strategies managers need

to be able to conduct business research in a

systematic and objective manner. In addition

to this when faced with the results from

business research managers also need to have

the required skills to analyse the evidence

presented to them. With this in mind the

module covers:

Qualitative and quantitative approaches to

business research

Creating a suitable research sample

Analysing research results

Drawing and then testing the findings

emerging from business research

Interpreting and presenting research results

The ethics of business research

8. Business Ethics and Sustainability

The module will draw on current research and

business practice in order to provide students

with an insight into one of the major issues

facing organizations today. The module covers:

The foundations of the debate surrounding

business ethics and sustainability

What do we mean by business ethics,

sustainability, sustainable development,

corporate citizenship and corporate social

responsibility?

Traditional and contemporary ethical theory

The duties and responsibilities of businesses

Corporations, state and civil society and the

firm as a political actor

The international, national and regional

regulatory environment and codes of

practice

State or self-regulation and the risks of non-

compliance

Stakeholders: shareholders, employees,consumers, suppliers, competitors, civil

society and government

Future perspectives on ethics and

sustainability

9. Corporate Finance

The module draws on some of the issues

previously discussed in the Business

Accounting module consolidating and further

developing your knowledge of financial

decision making. You will consider how capital

markets operate, how companies are valued

and how the wider business environment can

impact on financial managers operations. The

module covers:

An overview of financial management

considering investment and financing

decisions, share holder value analysis and

strategic investment

Valuing organizations

Financial strategies short term and

long term finance and working capital

management Do dividends matter? dividend policy

Using debt finance long term and short

term debt instruments

Measurement of gearing impact on

shareholder value and the required return

Shareholder return requirements

10. Strategic Management

The module aims to develop an understanding

of the changing practice of strategic

management within an often highly volatile

business environment. The module covers:

Varying perspectives on strategy, strategic

management and strategic decision making An understanding of the dynamic business

environment

Strategy formation, organizational planning

and positioning

Creating and sustaining a competitive

advantage and stakeholder satisfaction

Value chain analysis

Company culture and its impact on

management strategy


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Cycle Two

Once you have gained the required managerial

skills and knowledge during Cycle 1 of your

studies you will then be required to complete

four Cycle 2 modules. There are a total of ten

Cycle 2 modules to choose from for those

studying purely by distance learning. If you

decide to study a Cycle 2 module(s) at Bradfordor at a partner institute a number of alternative

modules are likely to be available (e.g. mergers

and acquisitions). The modules available via the

conventional distance learning route are:

1. Marketing Communications

In a world where organizational stakeholders

are bombarded each day with numerous

messages there is a need to ensure that your

organization communicates with the right

stakeholders in the most efficient and effective

way. This module will help you achieve this

introducing the concepts and theories that will

enable you to develop integrated marketing

communications. The module covers:

Analysing integrated marketing

communications

Advertising theory and management

Personal selling and negotiation

Below the line promotions

Public relations

Branding and design

2. Entrepreneurship

This module is designed to introduce you to the

concept of entrepreneurship and to equip you

with the knowledge and skills to engage with

the entrepreneurial process. You will emerge

from the module with a comprehensiveunderstanding of the importance of

entrepreneurship to the economy, the role of

the entrepreneur and the unique problems

that new businesses face. You will also learn the

skills that will enable you to develop ideas into

concepts, test these through feasibility analysis

and develop business plans for new ventures.

The module covers:

Defining and understanding enterprise,

entrepreneurship & innovation.

Managerial versus entrepreneurial mindsets.

Skills attitudes and behaviours associated

with entrepreneurs and developing

entrepreneurial skills.

Creativity and innovation in

entrepreneurship. Sources of opportunity

& innovation. Techniques for generating

and evaluating new ideas. Distinguishing

between ideas and opportunities.

Developing ideas into business

opportunities. Industry and competitor

analysis. Feasibility analysis.

Assessing the factors which influence the

choice of business model. How

to develop a business model. Recognising

potential flaws in a business model

Resources in the entrepreneurial venture.

Decisions required for a new venture.Developing a team & networks to

implement the opportunity

The purpose of a business plan. Key

components of a business plan. Evaluating

and presenting a business plan

3. Project Management

The module aims to foster a critical awareness

of the concepts and principles of project

management providing an insight into key

models, frameworks and techniques to support

decision making and control. The module

covers:

The justification for project management

The processes involved in project

management

Project initiation selection, start up, the

business case and the organization

Project initiation Part II planning and the

management of product delivery


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Project implementation stage control and

boundary management

Project closure learning from the project

planning experience and assessing the

benefits of project management

Managing risk and quality

Configuration management and change

control Software tools in project management

4. E-Business

The module will investigate the highly

contemporary areas of E-commerce and

E-business considering the implications these

developments may have for new and existing

businesses. Further to this you will develop the

skills required to introduce and manage the

E business strategy of an organization. The

module covers:

Understanding E-commerce and E-business

E-commerce technology

Applying E-commerce (e.g. search engines,social networks, blogs)

Barriers to E-commerce (e.g. security, data

encryption)

Analysing business models

Public policy and legal issues impacting on

E-commerce and E-business

New management, strategy thinking and

future technologies

5. International Business Strategy

The module develops a comprehensive

understanding of the major issues that

businesses are confronted with when operating

in international markets. The module covers: The implications for strategic management

of major changes in trade and investment

patterns

The globalisation process

The importance of differences in

institutional and cultural systems in

international business

Foreign direct investment and the

internationalisation process

Foreign market entry modes

The importance of the business

environment, innovation, leadership and

entrepreneurship on international business

strategies

HQ and subsidiary relations and managing

collaborative relations.

Corporate social responsibility and the

strategic management of multi-national

corporations.

6. International Business in Emerging

Economies

This module has been designed for those

who intend to work or are interested in

international business development whether

as managers, consultants or entrepreneurs all

within the context of emerging markets. You

will investigate the workings of subsidiary

operations in emerging economies (e.g. Central

and Eastern Europe, China, Russia, Brazil,Mexico, Cuba, Central and South East Asia) and

gain an understanding of the fundamental

issues confronted by foreign firms competing

in newly opened and dynamic markets. In order

to develop this knowledge the module draws

on a mixture of theory and practice which you

will find intellectually challenging and which

will provide a sound basis for further career

development. The module contains:

An introduction to emerging markets

Economic and political reform

Foreign direct investment and outsourcing

Entry strategy

Brownfield and privatization acquisitions/

restructuring in the transitional economiesof Central and Eastern Europe

Managing equity international joint ventures

in Asian markets

Subsidiary development and

entrepreneurship

Social networking

Corporate social responsibility

Corporate staffing and localisation

Emerging market multinationals/

internationalisation


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7. International Financial Management

This module is designed to provide you with

a critical understanding of the investment

and finance decisions made by multinational

companies. The module explores institutional

structure and the behaviour of international

currency markets enabling you to analyse and

evaluate the economic factors that affect the

foreign exchange rates. You will also explore

the financial instruments and techniques that

companies adopt to manage currency risks. The

module contains:

The foreign currency markets and the

determination of the spot and forward

exchange rates

The relationship between exchange rates,

price levels and interest rates

Financial instruments and currency hedging

techniques

International portfolio management

International debt and swap financing

techniques Capital investment decision making in the

multinational firm

8. Management of Change

The dynamic nature of the current business

environment means managers have to deal

with change on an almost daily basis. In

spite of this few managers have a sound

understanding of how to manage change.

During this module you will be able to reflect

on your own experiences considering why

change may be needed within organizations

and how managers can successful introduce

and then manage change. You will also

consider why change may be resisted and how

such resistance can be overcome. The module

covers:

The nature of change Cultures for change

Drivers of change

Reactions to change

People and change

Leadership of change

Models of change

9. Managerial Leadership

The module aims to develop a comprehensive

understanding of the major theories

concerning leadership within work

organizations. You will develop an increased

understanding of the way participants

behaviour can affect the feelings, attitudesand behaviour of people at work. The module

covers:

Just what is meant by the phrase leadership

and how does it differ from management

Are leaders born or made?

Leadership development

Skills in leadership - transactional,

transformational and charismatic

leadership.

The role of leadership when undergoing

organizational change.

Leadership issues, challenges and strategies

in business, government and politics.

A critical review of leadership theory: early

trait theories; behavioural style theories;

situational leadership theories;

The adoption of an integrative, holisticmodel of leadership.

10. Corporate Marketing

The module aims to provide students with

an alternative and contemporary view of the

marketing discipline focusing on the marketing

of the organization(s) rather than the products/

services organizations produce. Through

studying the module students will be able to

examine and critically analyse an organizations

identity, its corporate communications, image/

reputation and brand management activities.

The module covers :

The evolution of the marketing discipline

The nature, impact and importance of

corporate identity

Stakeholder analysis

Managing multiple corporate

communications

Image and reputation management

Developing and managing a corporate

brand.


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Management Project

At the end of your taught studies you will

be required to put into practice what you

have learnt during the various modules and

complete a 12,500 15,000 word management

project. The University of Bradford allows

its students a great deal of flexibility in their

management projects. For example, you maywish to reflect on your academic learning

and apply it to a problem currently facing

the organisation you work for. You may wish

to investigate an issue effecting not just one

organisation but an entire industry, or you

may wish to conduct desk based research

really getting to grips with all the academic

arguments and issues surrounding a subject

area in order to develop a new management

framework.

Throughout the project you will be guided

by an experienced academic and you will

have access to the School of Management

Effective Learning department. The EffectiveLearning service often proves to be very useful

providing students with a clear understanding

and guidelines on what is required in order to

successfully complete their project.

Programme Assessment

In order to ensure that you have gained the

required skills and knowledge you will have

to successfully complete a form of assessment

for each module. The assessment may be an

individual written assignment, an exam or a

mixture of both.

So that you can monitor your progress as you

work your way through each module there

are a number of opportunities for formative

assessment (i.e. assessment that will not count

to your overall grade). For example, you willbe invited to submit 2 pieces of work to your

individual tutor. Your tutor will read through

the work and provide you with feedback. In

addition to this, you will be encouraged to

complete a series of online multiple choice

questions for each unit studied.

Exams can be sat at the University of Bradford,

RDIs Head Office in Coventry or can be

arranged overseas via the British Council or at

a recognised overseas academic institution at

additional cost.

Duration of Programme

The Bradford University School of Managementdistance learning MBA allows students to

vary the speed of their progression through

the programme to suit their own individual

needs. As such, you can choose to take just

one module in a quarter or defer your studies

altogether (for a maximum of 1 year).

Distance learning students usually however

study 2 modules every 3 months. Each

module is split into 9 units (8 learning units

and 1 revision unit). Students are expected

to work through 1 unit per module per week.

This format ensures that students have a

number of weeks at the end of the module for

examination revision (if the module is assessed

by an exam) assignment work and general

recuperation.

Through completing 2 modules every 3months by the end of year 1 students will have

studied 8 modules. In year 2, progressing at

the same rate, students take the remaining 2

compulsory modules and 4 cycle 2 modules.

The completion of these remaining modules

takes 9 months. In the final 3 months students

start (and can complete) the management

project. Many students see the management

project as a key part of the MBA experience,

putting the skills they have learnt into practice.

To facilitate this learning experience Bradford

allow students to register for the management

project twice a year. Once a student has

registered for the management project they

are allowed up to 12 months to complete theproject.

As a general guide the programme can be

completed in 2-6 years. On average students

take 2 - 3 years to complete the programme.


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Admissions Requirements

All applications are considered on their

individual merits and will be assessed using a

collective approach, which takes into account

professional status and work experience as well

as academic achievement.

Work experience

Candidates must have at least 3 years

postgraduate work experience, which can be

from any industry, including both private and

public sectors, and charitable organisations.

Academic & professional achievements

You should have a good first degree awarded

by a UK university or overseas equivalent, or

a relevant professional qualification. If you

do not have a first degree or professional

qualifications you will need to demonstrate

significant management or business leadership

experience (normally 8 years). We will also

consider an academic recommendation based

on interview.Numeracy & literacy competences

We will require evidence of numeracy and

literacy competences, and depending on

the information provided at application,

you may need to complete an authorised

online aptitude test such as the Graduate

Management Admissions Test (GMAT) or School

equivalent.

English language prociency

If English is not your first language, we may

need evidence of your proficiency in English

through a recognised test (IELTS, TOEFL or

PTE-A). You will be required to achieve a

minimum score of:

IELTS: 6.5 overall, with no sub-test less than

5.5; or Internet-based TOEFL:

For EU, non-UK applicants: 94 overall, with

minimum scores of: Listening 17, Reading

18, Speaking 20, Writing 17

For International, non-UK/EU, applicants

(UKBA requirement): 94 overall, with

minimum scores of: Listening 21, Reading

22, Speaking 23, Writing 21; or

PTE-A (Pearson Test of English Academic): 60

overall, with no sub-test less than 51

Enrolment Dates

There are four enrolment opportunitiesthroughout the year in January, April, July and

October.

Applying for the MBA

You will be required to submit an application

online via our website www.rdi.co.uk/apply.

You will then be contacted by an experienced

Programme Advisor at RDI requesting

further documentation (i.e. qualification

certificates, CV and references). On receipt of

the required documentation your applicationwill be screened and, if suitable, forwarded

to the School of Management for formal

consideration. If the application is successful

you will be issued with a formal offer letter.

Visit our website: ww w.rdi.co.uk/apply

Email [email protected]

Contact us today on FREEphone

0800 COURSES / 0800 268 7737

Apply Online

Email Us

Call Us


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If you want an experience that

will truly benet you throughout

the rest of your life, the Bradford

MBA has to be the natural choice

Atif Mahmood - University of Bradford, MBA


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Todays economic conditions, characterised by increased price volatility, finite resources

and energy have led to the emergence of an alternative circular business perspective

which looks beyond the conventional linear take, make, dispose economic model.

Drawing on this new perspective the BradfordUniversitySchool of ManagementInnovation, Enterprise and Circular Economy MBA, provides current and future business

leaders with the knowledge, skills and tools to evaluate the business opportunities and

advantages available to those organisations adopting this new circular approach.

The Enterprise and Circular Economy MBA will help you:

Improve your understand of the key concepts, principles and applications of closed

loop thinking and the circular economy

Identify early-mover business opportunities through considering ground-breaking

innovative frameworks

Develop business leadership and entrepreneurial skills

Use and develop pioneering online learning networks to promote discussion and

debate.

Systems and Thinking:

Challenges for a linear economy in a context of

rising prices and increased volatility.

Consumption or Access:

Selling performance rather than goods to

radically change materials management

and seek added value. The MBA explores

innovative business models of the functional

service economy, its impact on product design

and reverse logistics. What benefits for both

companies and users, what challenges ahead?

Energy:

Whole systems design in the energy sector,

decentralisation and a gradual move away from

a fossil fuels-dependent model. The importance

of diversification in the energy sector, and what

it means for our infrastructures.

Diversity, Resilience and Scale:

The trade-off between efficiency (streamlining)

and resilience, between fragility and stagnation.

The circular economy is seen as an optimizedand restorative system generating multiple

cash flows and rebuilding capital. Different

perspectives: what are the implications for

mature and developing economies?

Materials - Technical and Biological Cycles:

The MBA will draw on the work of William

McDonough and Michael Braungart

considering materials cycles and the identified

trends and opportunities a circular approach

provides as analysed and outlined in Towards

the Circular Economy, a report by the Ellen

MacArthur Foundation featuring analysis by

McKinsey and Company.

Markets, Prices and Finance:

The role of prices and the internalisation of

costs in a circular economy. A look at market

distortions are current subsidies andlegislation creating a lock-in effect? To what

extent does the linear economy favour short-

term investments? The potential for valuing

and rebuilding capital in a circular model,

focusing on long-term resilience and a phasing

out of the boom bust mechanisms.

MBAMasters in Innovation,

Enterprise and the

Circular Economy

Some Key Ideas Covered in the Innovation Enterprise

and Circular Economy MBA


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Detailed Programme Structure

In order to complete the Bradford MBA

in Innovation, Enterprise and the Circular

Economy you will be required to complete

14 taught modules and a 12,500-15,000 word

management project.

Core Modules

In order to provide you with a balanced insight

into key business and managerial issues as well

as those associated with innovation, enterprise

and the circular economy you will study twelve

compulsory modules (6 standard MBA modules

and 6 modules specifically focusing on issues to

do with innovation, enterprise and the circular

economy).The modules studied will give

you good understanding of key business and

management theories and concepts whilst also

equipping you with the skills and knowledge

to challenge established thinking. As a result,

you will be able to propose alternative, highly

innovative solutions to a variety of issuescurrently facing many organisations.

1& 2. Circular Economy: Core Principles and

Context (Double Module)

This is the first module that you will study and

it sets the scene for the rest of the programme.

The module introduces the idea that the

circular economy is a systematic and coherent

framework for re-thinking future business and

economic growth in relation to the availability

of, and access to, strategic resources, materials

and energy. During the module you will

come to appreciate that whilst elegant and

deceptively simple the basic concepts and

principles which make up this circular approach

to business have enormous implications for the

current linear economy and business practises.

During this module you will examine:

The history, origin, evolution and drivers of

the circular economy

The stresses and challenges confronting the

linear economy

The importance of systems thinking and

systems perspectives

Use versus consumption

Materials, technical and biological cycles

Markets, prices and finance

Implications and opportunities for business

adopting a circular approach

3. Business Accounting

Managers are required to have an

understanding of accounting and the

accountants role within an organisation. The

module will provide an introduction into this

area covering issues such as:

Interpreting and evaluating accounts

Profit and loss

Cash flow and the balance sheet

Investment appraisal and return on

investment

Marginal and absorption costing

Ratios, comparisons and trends

Budgeting and control

4. Business Economics

The module provides an insight into the market

environment organisations operate in and how

market forces can impact on an organisation

and the growth strategies adopted. The module

covers:

Scarcity and choice

Resource allocation and the markets

Demand and supply/cost analysis Intervention in markets

Market structure and competition

Structure, conduct and performance of

companies and markets

Market concentration and public

competition policy

Determinants of national output/income

and fluctuations in growth rates

Key economic variables: output,

employment, inflation

Government fiscal, monetary and supply

side policies

Exchange rates and the balance of payments Globalisation, international trade and

international investment

5. Business Models for the Circular Economy

Adopting a circular approach requires a re-

appraisal of the conventional business models

something which can have major implications

for the way in which businesses interact with

customers, develop strategies and manage

their marketing and financial activities. Within

this module you will consider the value of a

systems based approach and what lessons

may be learnt from a natural or living systems

perspective through considering:

Living and natural systems - what can we

learn from nature?

Asset management and accounting

Use versus consumption, performance

versus ownership

Product, service and systems innovation

Redesign, remanufacture and remarketing

The role of markets, prices, finance and

money


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6. Marketing

The module provides an insight into just what

marketing is along with the fundamental

marketing theories managers need to be aware

of. In addition to this the module considers

the relationship between market analysis,

organisational opportunities and threats,

marketing strategies and tactics. The module

covers:

What is the marketing concept?

Analysing the market environment and

market planning

Consumer and organisational buying

behaviour

Segmenting the market, targeting

customers and positioning the product

Marketing tactics the marketing mix

Product portfolio analysis and the product

life cycle

Branding and communicating with the

market

Marketing channels distributors and

retailers

Pricing strategies

Marketing in a international environment

7. Enterprise and Innovation

Rapid and uncertain changes in the external

business environment create opportunities for

innovative and enterprising individuals and

organisations. This module considers these

potential opportunities focusing on:

The concepts of innovation and enterprise

Innovation and the modification of business

strategies and tactics

Innovation and enterprise within SME and

large mature organisations

Innovation, enterprise and the use of

resources

Innovation and enterprise on a local and

global scale

8. Operations Management

The module looks at what is known as the

conversion process focusing on how materials

and products are processed within the

organisation. The module covers:

The framework for operations management

and the functional interfaces

The issues of value, variety and design

Design operational systems

The workings of an organisation Capacity management and operational

planning

Quality management

Purchasing and layout

Contemporary issues in operations

management

9. Managing People

Managers need to be able to understand how

to manage one of their most valuable and

important resources their employees. In

order to investigate this subject the module

draws on several disciplines including

organisational behaviour, organisational

psychology and human resource management.

The result is a module which provides a

comprehensive insight into those factors which

influence human behaviour within the work

environment. The module covers:

Personality, perception, motivation and job

satisfaction

Group and team work

Management and leadership

Transactional and transformational

leadership

Organisational culture, structure and design

Conflict, power and politics within the

organisation

Communications within the organisation

10. Materials, Resources, Energy and

Competitiveness

Organisations are becoming increasingly

concerned about material and energy costs.

In this module you will explore how a change

in attitude toward and use of the earths

finite resources may pose challenges for

organisations but also provide opportunities

The Re:Centre is Bradford Universitys brand new facility focusing on business start-ups, business engagement, innovation and the circular economy.


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for innovation and the future development and

prosperity of many organisations. During the

module you will consider:

The resource, materials and energy

challenge - security, waste and energy

issues

Competitiveness and competitive advantage

- the role of resources, materials and energy Energy flows - whole system design in

the energy sector, the role of renewable

resources

The characteristics of technical and

biological cycles and the role of time

11. Strategic Management

The module aims to develop an understanding

of the changing practice of strategic

management within an often highly volatile

business environment. The module covers:

Varying perspectives on strategy, strategic

management and strategic decision making

An understanding of the dynamic businessenvironment

Strategy formation, organisational planning

and positioning

Creating and sustaining a competitive

advantage and stakeholder satisfaction

Value chain analysis

Company culture and its impact on

management strategy

12. Diversity, Scale and Development

The adoption of a circular approach to business

is likely to have a number of significant

repercussions. Established supply chain

systems may be reconfigured, manufacturing

locations modified, new market growth

patterns may emerge and alternative pressures

may be placed on our ecosystem. All these

issues and the debate regarding the value and

benefits of diversity, localisation, development

and global trading relationships are key issues

in this module and you will consider:

Efficiency as a business and supply chain

objective - consequences and system

optimisation

The concept of resilience and diversity in

respect of materials, resources, energy -

meanings and implications for business

Circular economy in a development context

- opportunities and challenges

Government, regulation and the role of

instit

RDI MBA Prospectus

Documents