Programme Specification

Course record information

Master of Business Administration - MBA

Name and level of final award The award is Bologna FQ-EHEA second cycle degree or
diploma compatible

Postgraduate Diploma (Pg Dip) - Business

Administration
Name and level of intermediate awards
Postgraduate Certificate (Pg Cert) - Business
Administration

Awarding body/institution University of Westminster

Teaching institution University of Westminster
Status of awarding body/institution Recognised Body
Location of delivery Primary: Central London
Language of delivery and assessment English

QAA subject benchmarking group(s) Business and Management (Master's)

Professional statutory or regulatory body N/A

Westminster course title, mode of attendance and MBA FT, Full-time, September or January start - 1 year
standard length standard length

Valid for cohorts From 2024/5

Admissions requirements
There are standard minimum entry requirements for all postgraduate courses. Students are advised to check the
standard requirements for the most up-to-date information. For most courses a decision will be made on the basis of your
application form alone. However, for some courses the selection process may include an interview to demonstrate your
strengths in addition to any formal entry requirements. More information can be found here:
https://www.westminster.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/how-to-apply.

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Aims of the programme
The MBA is designed for passionate young graduates from any discipline (including progressing Westminster graduates)
who are seeking an intensive, practically-oriented, advanced education in modern business methods and skills. These
graduates will have no/low work experience (0-2 years) and will be seeking business roles in either corporates, start-ups
or SMEs, but also in the public sector and non-profit organisations. Our target graduates may also be engineers,
scientists or arts students who are looking for intensive business study to help them launch new enterprises. Our target
graduates will be both from the UK and overseas. The MBA has been designed to prepare graduates for a rapidly
changing business world. Students will see a focus on the latest business thinking, combined with practical application
and a specific emphasis on skills development. By focusing on practical skills and real business projects, students will be
better prepared for the way that organisations and job roles are changing.
The MBA follows a strong narrative with a journey of discovery, covering analysis of problems/issues, the design of
innovative solutions, immersion in digital applications and the development of drive, resilience and diplomacy as part of
the student’s personal growth. In addition to the module assessment, capabilities learned are applied during the
entrepreneurship project, the international consultancy project and the internship. The narrative includes an emphasis on
seven blocks of integrated study that will help students develop a set of core competencies:
Business Diagnosis. Our students will graduate with modern skills in analysing financial, performance and market
data. They will become comfortable with data and able to diagnose business problems and use judgement to
improve business and market performance.
Designing Value. Our students will be able to use design thinking and creativity to reimagine business models and
design new products, services and processes.
Digital Capabilities. Our students will develop and refine their digital skills and will be capable of coding and
building prototype apps and websites. They will understand digital information systems and how the latest digital
developments (e.g., blockchain, AI, VR and AR) will impact on business operations, business services and
performance.
Entrepreneurial Mindset. Intensive immersion in “hackathons” is designed to build an understanding of
entrepreneurial thinking and new venture creation. These entrepreneurial skills will be equally deployable within
organisations or for new startups.
Resilient Organisations and Teams. Our students will critically analyse the traits, behaviours and management
processes needed for resilient and ethically/socially/environmentally sustainable organisations and managing
change. Future organisations, managers and leaders will need drive, agility, adaptability and resilience to cope in
an increasingly volatile and complex business environment. Our students will be able to demonstrate these
capabilities.
Sustainable Global Growth. Our students will have a global perspective to business development. They will be
well-practised in working collaboratively and sensitively in multi-cultural project environments.
Strategic Innovation in a Digital World. Our students study a capstone module of strategy masterclasses
(including presentations from industry practitioners) that will cover the latest knowledge and insights needed by
innovation leaders. These will focus on innovation and its strategic impact on organisations and economies.

Employment and further study opportunities

Today’s organisations need graduates with both good degrees and skills relevant to the workplace, i.e. employability
skills. The University of Westminster is committed to developing employable graduates by ensuring that:
Career development skills are embedded in all courses
Opportunities for part-time work, placements and work-related learning activities are widely available to students
Staff continue to widen and strengthen the University’s links with employers in all sectors, involving them in
curriculum design and encouraging their participation in other aspects of the University’s career education and
guidance provision
Staff are provided with up-to-date data on labour market trends and employers’ requirements, which will inform the
service delivered to students.
The innovation in our MBA is the unambiguous focus on preparing graduates for the world of work, through a highly
practical and experiential programme. The emphasis on capabilities and attributes and the opportunity to apply these
capabilities to real business problems, will give students direct experience that will enhance their CVs and the narrative of
their journey when applying for new positions. Furthermore, the interaction with companies during the programme, the
applied projects and the final internship, will directly enhance the prospects for early employability after graduation. By
focusing on business attributes we expect a very wide range of employers to be interested in our graduates, including

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corporates, SMEs, startups, public sector and not-for-profit organisations.
There is evidence from discussions with employers (including sectors technology, financial services, creative media and
consumer retail) that the rate of change taking place in the business world (particularly from digital disruption) negates the
traditional requirement for extensive work experience prior to an MBA. Employability, in this context, requires multiskilled,
digitally-competent graduates, equipped with a sophisticated cross-disciplinary understanding of business and its
changing context, who demonstrate attributes aligned with innovation, personal agility, adaptability and resilience. Such
graduates can adapt quickly to an employer’s business model or create new enterprises.
We are including a three month applied “Management in Action – Internship”. This is an accelerated programme and we
expect students to want the combined benefit of an internship but also an early entry to the job market. The internship may
take place in the UK or overseas and will be supervised by members of the course team. The WBS Placement Office
(part of the UOW Careers and Employability Service) will help to place students with employers.
Course Learning Outcomes
The table below shows the mapping of course learning outcomes (KU1-5, SS1-3 and KTS1-2) to the ten modules.
Modules M1 to M8 are core and modules M9 and M10 are options

M1 M2 M3 M4 M5 M6 M7 M8 M9 M10
KNU1 X X
KNU2 X X X X X X
KNU3 X X
KNU4 X X X
KNU5 X X X
SS1 X X X X X
SS2 X X X X X X
SS3 X X X X X
KTS1 X X X X X X X X X X
KTS2 X X X X X X X X X X

M1 Business Diagnosis / DIAGNOSIS [20]

M2 Designing Value / DESIGN [20]
M3 Digital Capabilities / DIGITAL [20]
M4 Entrepreneurial Mindset [10]
M5 Resilient Organisations and Teams / DRIVE [20]
M6 Sustainable Global Growth / DIPLOMACY [20]
M7 Strategic Innovation in a Digital World [20]
M8 International Consultancy Project [10]
M9 Management in Action – Internship [40]
M10 Management in Action – Project [40]

What will you be expected to achieve?

Course learning outcomes
Learning outcomes are statements on what successful students have achieved as the result of learning.
These are threshold statements of achievement the learning outcomes broadly fall into four categories:
The overall knowledge and understanding you will gain from your course (KU)
Graduate attributes are characteristics that you will have developed during the duration of your course (GA)
Professional and personal practice learning outcomes are specific skills that you will be expected to have gained on
successful completion of the course (PPP)
Key transferable skills that you will be expected to have gained on successful completion of the course. (KTS)

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Level 7 course learning outcomes: upon completion of Level 7 you will be able to:
KNU1 Critically evaluate entrepreneurial thinking and the process of new venture creation. This entrepreneurial
thinking will be equally deployable within existing organisations or for new start-ups. ( KU )
KNU2 Systematically evaluate how the latest digital developments (e.g., blockchain, AI, VR and AR) will impact on
business operations, business services and performance. ( KU )
KNU3 Critically analyse leadership traits and behaviours needed for managing change and developing
ethically/socially/environmentally sustainable organisations. ( KU )
KNU4 Critically examine innovation processes and their strategic impact on organisations and economies. ( KU )
KNU5 Synthesise the key performance drivers in an industry or organization based on theory derived from
economics, finance and strategic management. ( KU )
KTS1 Work individually and collaboratively, in multi-cultural project environments via group activities such as team
negotiations, demonstrating a self-aware and reflective approach. ( KTS )
KTS2 Communicate ideas, problems and solutions clearly and effectively in a variety of formats to specialist or non-
specialist audiences. ( KTS )
SS1 Diagnose business issues using data from a variety of appropriate sources and use judgment to make
informed decisions to improve business and market performance. ( SS )
SS2 Use design thinking and creativity to reimagine business models and improve their digital skills. ( SS )
SS3 Demonstrate drive, negotiation abilities, personal agility, and resilience to cope in an increasingly global
volatile complex business environment. ( SS )

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How will you learn?
Learning methods
As befits a programme at this level, considerable emphasis will be placed on independent research and study. This will
include online resource-based learning through directed and verifiable study. All modules are supported by the
University’s virtual learning environment (VLE – Blackboard Ultra) where module study materials with the additional
learning and reading matter are deposited. The VLE will provide functionality that will enable a hybrid approach, where
the dominant face-to-face approach is supplemented and supported through discussion forums and portfolio
development. The VLE will also provide individual and team spaces, to enable the noting of contributions and reflections
for wider learning and for capture where portfolios form part of the module assessment. Through this synchronous and
asynchronous option, the students will be able to engage with both their formal learning and with developing
understanding in their own time, individually or in teams, when working collaboratively/cooperatively. Additionally, students
will be recommended to also utilise the training materials available through the University library e-sources, LinkedIn
Learning, TED talks and Massive Online Open Courses (MOOCs) to help consolidate their learning.
We emphasise the development of problem-solving and decision-making skills, the ability to lead and also work as part
of a team and effective oral and written communication. Enquiry based learning is used throughout all the modules.
Students will be able to demonstrate enhanced digital skills, including cloud technologies, social media, apps and
websites and cocreation platforms.
We are compassionate and inclusive in all of our learning methods. For example, students are encouraged to engage
critically and reflectively, acknowledging international cultural differences. Another example is that students are
encouraged to work collaboratively, respecting others’ learning styles and different points of view.

Teaching methods
We use a wide range of teaching methods on the programme which reflect application of key knowledge and skills
development. From short lectures to case studies and role-playing exercises as well as computer simulations and
“hackathons”. This acknowledges the wide range of preferred learning styles within the student body, in line with the
inclusivity guidelines mentioned above. We expect our students to be autonomous learners, able to take responsibility for
their own development and that of their peers. Active class participation is essential and the combination of experience
and diversity creates a rich learning environment. Therefore students are expected to be proactive in their learning
through the study and debate of case studies and real world examples. We use a number of “live” case studies with real
clients. These help to develop an application of key concepts and at the same time develop analytical and decision-
making skills.
The course aims to achieve an appropriate balance of knowledge and the application of that knowledge in situations
which require that students explicitly demonstrate understanding of the internal and external business environments and
the need to manage those situations effectively, as well as the people involved in them. This will involve students in the
critical thinking, analysis and synthesis of information necessary in the solving of business problems.
Furthermore students will meet on a regular basis with your tutor/mentor through face-to face and/or e-mail and/or
asynchronous discussion and/or other electronic means. You will work with a range of academics on the programme who
will be acting in the capacity of tutors, mentors, coaches and consultants, rarely as ‘lecturers’.

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Assessment methods
A wide range of individual and group assessment methods are used, including an investigative report, reflective essay,
group presentation, video presentation, in-class group pitch or presentation, simulation and portfolio of evidence, The
context in which students are asked to demonstrate the acquisition and application of knowledge will require
demonstration of personal and interpersonal skills that are appropriate to authentic environments, in this case business
and management. These include effective self management and the willingness to be adaptable and resilient, as well as
sensitivity to the diverse issues associated with managing people and situations in a working environment. The wide
variety of assessments provides flexible ways to meet the learning outcomes reflecting the range of student preferences
for different types of assessment, in line with inclusivity guidelines mentioned above. Furthermore, assessments test “real
world” problems which are socially, culturally and globally relevant and take into account learners' identities.
Coursework assessments require students to adopt an objective approach which is theory led and practice-driven. The
type of assessment used on particular modules is indicated in each module description. The table below shows the
allocation of credits to various assessments across all the modules. Each module gives an opportunity for students to
receive formative feedback as part of the learning processes. For example, sessions will often involving solving
issues/problems relating to a case study, either traditional historic-based or live. Students working in groups will prepare
solutions to the particular questions and present them to the class. Plenary feedback is given both on the content and the
communication of the presentation, thus preparing the students for a summative group presentation assessment.

Course Structure
This section shows the core and option modules available as part of the course and their credit value. Full-time
Postgraduate students study 180 credits per year. Additional free text information on the choices may also be included,
for example where students must choose one of two modules.. Course structures can be subject to change each
academic year following feedback from a variety of sources.

Modules
Level 7
Full-time Postgraduate students study 180 credits per year for the Masters in Business Administration, comprising the
eight core modules and one of the two options.
The Certificate in Business Administration requires 60 credits.
The Diploma in Business Administration requires 120 credits.

Please note that this course may include some Semester 3 teaching.
Module Code Module Title Status UK credit ECTS
7BUSS022W Business Diagnosis Core 20 10
7BUSS024W Consultancy Project Core 10 5
7MARK023W Designing Value Core 20 10
7DIBU007W Digital Capabilities Core 20 10
7ENTP009W Entrepreneurial Mindset Core 10 5
7MNST005W Resilient Organisations and Teams Core 20 10
7DIBU008W Strategic Innovation in a Digital World Core 20 10
7BUSS023W Sustainable Global Growth Core 20 10
7MNST006W Management In Action - Internship Option 40 20
7MNST007W Management in Action - Project Option 40 20

Please note: Not all option modules will necessarily be offered in any one year. In addition, timetabling and limited spaces
may mean you cannot register for your first choice of option modules.

Professional body accreditation or other external references

N/A

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Course management
The Course Leader has responsibility for the academic integrity of the programme. This includes the everyday
management of the course, development of the curriculum, and ensuring the delivery in terms of quality control and
equivalence of experience for course participants.
The Head of the School of Management and Marketing is responsible for monitoring academic quality and organising
assessment procedures for those modules falling under the School’s courses at Conferment Boards.
The Associate Head of Westminster Business School (Education and Students) holds responsibility for the overall quality
and delivery of the educational process.
The Head of College holds overall responsibility for the course and for other courses run by Westminster Business
School.

Academic regulations
The current Handbook of Academic Regulations is available at westminster.ac.uk/academic-regulations.
Course specific regulations apply to some courses.

Academic Support
Upon arrival, an induction programme will introduce you to the staff responsible for the course, the campus on which you
will be studying, the Library and IT facilities, additional support available and to your Campus Registry. You will be
provided with the Course Handbook, which provides detailed information about the course. Each course has a course
leader or Director of Studies. All students enrolled on a full-time course and part time students registered for more than
60 credits a year have a personal tutor, who provides advice and guidance on academic matters. The University uses a
Virtual Learning Environment called Blackboard where students access their course materials, and can communicate
and collaborate with staff and other students. Further information on Blackboard can be found
at https://www.westminster.ac.uk/current-students/studies/your-student-journey/when-you-arrive/blackboard
The Academic Learning Development Centre supports students in developing the skills required for higher education. As
well as online resources in Blackboard, students have the opportunity to attend Study Skills workshops and one to one
appointments. Further information on the Academic Learning Development Centre can be found at
westminster.ac.uk/academic-learning-development.
Learning support includes four libraries, each holding a collection of resources related to the subjects taught at that site.
Students1 can search the entire library collection online through the Library Search service to find and reserve printed
books, and access electronic resources (databases, e-journals, e-books). Students can choose to study in the libraries,
which have areas for silent and group study, desktop computers, laptops for loan, photocopying and printing services.
They can also choose from several computer rooms at each campus where desktop computers are available with the
general and specialist software that supports the courses taught in their College. Students can also securely connect their
own laptops and mobile devices to the University wireless network.

Support Services
The University of Westminster Student and Academic Services department provide advice and guidance on
accommodation, financial and legal matters, personal counselling, health and disability issues, careers, specialist advice
for international students and the chaplaincy providing multi-faith guidance. Further information on the advice available to
students can be found at https://www.westminster.ac.uk/student-advice
The University of Westminster Students' Union also provides a range of facilities to support students during their time at
the University. Further information on UWSU can be found at https://www.westminster.ac.uk/students-union

How do we ensure the quality of our courses and continuous improvement?

The course was initially approved by a University Validation Panel. University Panels normally include internal peers from
the University, academic(s) from another university. a representative from industry and a Student Advisor.
The course is also monitored each year by the College to ensure it is running effectively and that issues which might affect
the student experience have been appropriately addressed. Staff will consider evidence about the course, including the
evidence of student surveys, student progression and achievement and reports from external examiners, in order to
evaluate the effectiveness of the course and make changes where necessary.

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A Course revalidation takes place periodically to ensure that the curriculum is up-to-date and that the skills gained on the
course continue to be relevant to employers. Students meet with revalidation panels to provide feedback on their
experiences. Student feedback from previous years is also part of the evidence used to assess how the course has been
running.

How do we act on student feedback?

Student feedback is important to the University and student views are taken seriously. Student feedback is gathered in a
variety of ways.
Through student engagement activities at Course/Module level, students have the opportunity to express their voice
in the running of their course. Course representatives are elected to expressly represent the views of their peers.
The University and the Students’ Union work together to provide a full induction to the role of the course
representatives.
There are also School Representatives appointed jointly by the University and the Students’ Union who meet with
senior School staff to discuss wider issues affecting student experience across the School. Student representatives
are also represented on key College and University committees.;
All students are invited to complete a questionnaire before the end of each module. The feedback from this will
inform the module leader on the effectiveness of the module and highlight areas that could be enhanced.
Final year Undergraduate students will be asked to complete the National Student Survey which helps to inform the
national university league tables.
This programme specification provides a concise summary of the main features of the course and the learning outcomes
that a student might reasonably be expected to achieve and demonstrate, if they take full advantage of the learning
opportunities that are provided. This specification is supplemented by the Course Handbook, Module proforma and
Module Handbooks provided to students. Copyright in this document belongs to the University of Westminster. All rights
are reserved. This document is for personal use only and may not be reproduced or used for any other purpose, either in
whole or in part, without the prior written consent of the University of Westminster. All copies of this document must
incorporate this Copyright Notice – 2022©

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