Masters Degrees (Fraud)

The Fraud Investigation Management MSc course was developed in association with professionals leading the way in economic crime and fraud investigation in the UK and worldwide.

The MSc Fraud Investigation Management with Professional Experience, is an extended full-time Masters programme with a substantive professional experience component. Within the professional experience modules, students have the option of undertaking an internship with a host organisation or, alternatively, campus-based professional experience.

Internships are subject to a competitive application and selection process and the host organisation may include the University. Internships may be paid or unpaid, and this will depend on what is being offered and agreed with the host organisation.

Students who do not wish to undertake an internship or are not successful in securing an internship will undertake campus-based professional experience, which will deliver similar learning outcomes through supervised projects and activities designed to offer students the opportunity to integrate theory with an understanding of professional practice.

WHY CHOOSE THIS COURSE?

If you are involved in fraud investigation or would like to be, this course can help you develop the skills, knowledge and understanding of current issues in fraud investigation, that you will need to better plan and deal with the potential fraud risk in your organisation. The course will focus students on the associated policy and procedures needed to be able to take a fraud case from inception right the way through to prosecution.

The UK has long been one of a small number of global leaders in the field of investigations, with UK Police officers currently involved in cases of national and international importance overseas. UK Police officers have developed a globally acknowledged reputation for professionalism and efficiency. It is this experience and practice which underpins the Coventry University Masters degree (MSc) in Fraud Investigation Management.

The Forensic Investigation group maintain close links with fraud investigation departments within financial institutions. Fraud investigation is a growing area and successful Coventry University graduates should be well placed to capitalise on this shift in the employment market.

The key driver for developing this course was the 2006 Fraud Review by Lord Goldsmith, which stated that a more strategic approach to the investigation of fraud by financial institutions and the Police was needed. Ultimately, graduates from the MSc in Fraud Investigation Management could be able to contribute to the professionalisation agenda for the role of fraud investigator and to effectively manage the fraud investigation function for their organisations.

HOW WILL THIS COURSE ENHANCE MY CAREER PROSPECTS?

All areas of investigation are undergoing a professionalisation process. In addition to vocational qualifications organisations with an investigative role are increasingly looking for employees and candidates with higher level nationally recognised qualifications. It is more and more likely that having relevant higher level qualifications will be an important part of any professional profile including when seeking advancement in a fraud or investigatory career.

WORK PLACEMENTS

The extended full-time Masters programme has a substantive professional experience component. The professional experience modules gives students the option of undertaking an internship with a host organisation or, alternatively, campus-based professional experience.

Internships are subject to a competitive application and selection process and the host organisation may include the University.

GLOBAL LEADERS PROGRAMME

To prepare students for the challenges of the global employment market and to strengthen and develop their broader personal and professional skills Coventry University has developed a unique Global Leaders Programme.

The objectives of the programme, in which postgraduate and eligible undergraduate students can participate, is to provide practical career workshops and enable participants to experience different business cultures.

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Start Dates

Every February, May, August and November.

Course Outline

Most organisations have their fair share of fraud and corruption, and it affects all of us. As we know, what comes out in the press is the sharp tip of the iceberg. So, in these austere times, can we really accept to carry hidden costs and lose value through unethical behaviour perpetrated against us? At the School of Management we have decided to take a stand and teach what most business schools still do not teach... defence against the commercial dark side.

Properly combating fraud and corruption is still an elusive goal. Time and again we see people and apparently well-managed organisations subjected to major embarrassment, financial penalties or even bankruptcy as the result of inappropriate actions and failings by 'trusted' individuals. This course will help you to learn how to address the challenge; how you can ensure that you actively defend yourself and your organisation against the very real threats we would rather not see?

The aims and objectives of the course are to:

-Demystify fraud and corruption (what it is, who does it and why, what it costs us).
-Explore how to bridge the gap between anti-fraud and corruption and 'rhetoric' and the reality of the world we live in.
-Learn how to spot fraud, and develop your own fraud and corruption risk assessment which represents a true picture of what could be happening (in your organisation).
-Demonstrate in practical steps what you can do to pre-empt and prevent fraud, corruption and all forms of unethical business behaviour in your organisation.

This course is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA)

If you have any questions about this course, join us for a live online chat with academic tutors and admissions staff.

How will the course be taught?

This is a 12 week course delivered solely online using engaging audio-visual based teaching methods in addition to selected case studies. The course will be moderated by a leading practitioner on fraud and corruption, who will share their experiences and insights with the group. In addition to all of this, the course provides you with full access to the extensive library provision offered by the University of Leicester.

The course is assessed by a practice based assignment. In addition to the development of key skills and acquiring new knowledge, successfully completing the course will provide you with 15 Master's level credits of study and a Confirmation of Completion.

For COURSE STRUCTURE information, please visit the University of Leicester website.

(Please note: due to regular enhancement of the University’s courses, please refer to Leicester’s own website (http://www.le.ac.uk) or/and Terms and Conditions (http://www2.le.ac.uk/legal) for the most accurate and up-to-date course information. We recommend that you familiarise yourself with this information prior to submitting an application.)

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Develop the specialist accounting skills and knowledge needed to pursue a career in forensic investigation and dispute resolution on this master's course. A forensic approach to accounting is often used in the workplace and this course allows you to specialise in this field.

Through the forensic accounting modules, the course gives you specialist insight into the forensic analysis of financial accounts and methods used in dispute resolution. Your studies into electronic crime show how new media can be exploited in financial fraud and how such actions can be traced.

You also gain an understanding of the legal issues in a forensic context. Part of your study involves increasing your knowledge of the legal framework in relation to the law of evidence and studying accounting in a legal context.

The corporate governance and ethics module shows you the importance of good governance and ethics to organisations and society throughout the world, so you can apply these ideas in your future career.

Your module choice allows you to tailor your study to an area of interest.

The financial analysis module gives you the ability to understand and utilise financial and other information in connection with identifying manipulation of financial statements.

This is an academic degree and as such you will gain analytical and technical research and consultancy skills. You develop knowledge and a reflective understanding of methodological and philosophical issues in research and consultancy with specific reference to finance. As an extension to this, you will develop your ability to critically evaluate published research and develop your own research skills. It provides the key steps in developing your understanding of the nature of the postgraduate dissertation and approaches to undertaking one.

You undertake an extended piece of research, which you design and carry out under the direction of an academic tutor.

You gain transferable skills relevant to the current national and international business world, in areas including problem solving, communication and information technology.

The team delivering the course has strong links with the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE), Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants(CIMA) and Association of Corporate Treasurers (ACT).

Professional body membership

Your student membership fees for Association of Certified Fraud Examiners for your year of study are paid by the University allowing you to have full access to their member resources to help you complete your specialist modules.

Professional recognition

We are a member of the Anti-Fraud Education Partnership with the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners.

Course structure

Core modules:

• Forensic accounting
• The expert witness in criminal litigation
• Methods of enquiry: research and consultancy in finance
• Forensic accounting applications
• Electronic crime
• Corporate governance and ethics
• Financial Analysis
• Dissertation

Optional modules:

• financial analysis
• financial regulation and supervision
• innovation in the digital enterprise

Assessment

• Assignments
• Presentations
• Dissertation

Employability

Our graduates are well-equipped for a range of careers as the course develops skills that are required by a broad range of industries. We have a team of specialist recruitment advisers and run a range of careers and recruitment events.

You can find careers in any accounting related-profession, or you can specialise in detecting financial fraud through forensic investigation.

Graduates from this course are equipped for professional roles in accounting and finance, such as • accountant • finance or accounting manager • financial controller • financial analyst • financial consultant • researcher or educator.

You can also use the course to help your career development if you are in the police, legal and penal professions.

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Why take this course?

Through the application of professional forensic accounting tools, models, techniques and knowledge, you will gain a comprehensive range of skills covering the three core areas of forensic accounting – litigation support, expert witnessing and fraud examination. You’ll learn to apply your specialised accounting skills in a range of areas including business valuation, assessment of economic damages, proceeds of crime, fraud and money laundering.

This programme is taught full-time over one year, part-time over three years, and is also available through a Distance Learning option.

We are a member of the Anti-Fraud Education Partnership with the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners, which enables us to have access to up-to-date teaching resources.

What will I experience?

On this course you can:

Investigate real-life case studies and learn the processes involved in compiling your own case
Receive guided support and mentoring from staff through formal meetings and via our use of social media
Tap in to our Library’s vast selection of electronic resources, which can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection

What opportunities might ti lead to?

One of the fastest growing areas of accounting, there is an increasing global demand for specialists with forensic accounting knowledge and skills. Our course therefore aims to provide a progressive, challenging and stimulating framework of study that will equip you to work in this field.

Here are some routes our graduates have pursued:

Audit and assurance
Taxation
Forensic accounting
Management accounting
Financial analysis
Treasury

Module Details

You will study a total of five units which consider a range of exciting topics such as corporate integrity and management control, fraud and forensic analysis, cybercrime and interviewing and testimony. You will learn how to investigate a case, gather evidence, prepare expert reports and provide evidence. The course then concludes with your dissertation where you’ll have the flexibility to specialise in an area of your choice such as fraud examination, litigation consulting or expert witnessing to name a few.

Here are the units you will study:

Financial Analysis and Modelling: You will gain a critical awareness of the financial environment from both an accounting and finance perspective. You will learn to understand, analyse and interpret company reports, examine the role of the regulatory framework for corporate reporting and the stock market, and explore the pricing of securities. You will also cover the key areas of decision and risk analysis, alongside the process of decision making, key statistical concepts, and selecting and using appropriate analytical software tools as aids to decision making.

Expert Witnessing and Dispute Resolution: This unit enables you to examine the full range of formal and informal methods for dispute resolution within common law, and civil and criminal legal systems, whilst also developing an understanding of the legal and practical protocols alongside the procedural knowledge and etiquette governing the appointment and testimony of expert witnesses. You will also develop a clear understanding of the legal basis and critical elements required to construct an expert report for submission in civil and criminal proceedings.

Financial Forensics and Investigation: On this unit you will develop an understanding of the need for an holistic approach in the investigatory models applied so that you can develop a critical, questioning and evaluative approach in assessing financial data. You will consider the primary evidential elements with a particular emphasis on gathering information from interviews and examining key issues and innovative approaches.

Financial Crime and the Law: You will focus on an appreciation and understanding of the wide variety of financial crime and how the current regulatory framework and crime control statutes have developed to deal with them. Through examining features of corporate integrity and management control systems you will gain an understanding of the development and needs of corporate governance in the context of the control theories of the firm.

Dissertation: This is a 15,000-word research project that combines a review of previous research undertaken in your chosen topic with your own data collection and analysis. This provides a unique opportunity for you to demonstrate the subject knowledge you have acquired, as well as your analytical abilities and problem-solving skills which are highly regarded by potential employers. During this phase, your research will be supervised by an experienced academic with expertise in your chosen topic area.

Programme Details

We use a combination of teaching methods from lectures, seminars and tutorials to student presentations and activity-based case studies. We are committed to best practice in learning and encourage group participation promoting discussion and debate in a friendly yet, challenging class environment.

You are assessed in a variety of ways to reflect the individual topics. Our approaches to learning, assessment and feedback are varied and constructive, to help you build the personal management and employability skills that are essential for a fulfilling career.

Student Destinations

This course is an ideal route into a wide range of professional careers in litigation support, expert witnessing and fraud examination. On graduating you will be qualified for a number of roles in financial regulatory authorities, law firms, accountancy practices and law enforcement agencies. We liaise closely with employers and professional bodies to ensure that all our courses are relevant to their business and recruitment needs. Our overall aim is to help you find a fulfilling and financially rewarding job once you graduate.

Roles our graduates have taken on include:

Financial analyst
Internal auditor
Stockbroker
Account manager

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Why take this course?

Through the application of professional forensic accounting tools, models, techniques and knowledge, you will gain a comprehensive range of skills covering the three core areas of forensic accounting – litigation support, expert witnessing and fraud examination. You’ll learn to apply your specialised accounting skills in a range of areas including business valuation, assessment of economic damages, proceeds of crime, fraud and money laundering.

Depending on how much time you are able to commit to your study, we offer a two year or a 30 month duration, and our recommended study time per week would be around 12 and 18 hours respectively. We would strongly recommend that those students with full-time jobs or other commitments opt for the longer 30 month programme of study.

What will I experience?

On this course you can:

Investigate real-life case studies and learn the processes involved in compiling your own case
Participate in live web-based chat forums to discuss your work with lecturers and other students
Tap in to our Library’s vast selection of electronic resources, which can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection

What opportunities might it lead to?

One of the fastest growing areas of accounting, there is an increasing global demand for specialists with forensic accounting knowledge and skills. Our course therefore aims to provide a progressive, challenging and stimulating framework of study that will equip you to work in this field.

Here are some routes our graduates have pursued:

Audit and assurance
Taxation
Forensic accounting
Management accounting
Financial analysis
Treasury

Module Details

You will study a total of five units which consider a range of exciting topics such as corporate integrity and management control, fraud and forensic analysis, cybercrime and interviewing and testimony. You will learn how to investigate a case, gather evidence, prepare expert reports and provide evidence. The course then concludes with your dissertation where you’ll have the flexibility to specialise in an area of your choice such as fraud examination, litigation consulting or expert witnessing to name a few.

In the 30 month programme you will study two units in each of year one and year two, followed by the dissertation in the final year.

In the two year programme, you will study three units in year one followed by one unit and the dissertation in year two.

Here are the units you will study:

Financial Analysis and Modelling: You will gain a critical awareness of the financial environment from both an accounting and finance perspective. You will learn to understand, analyse and interpret company reports, examine the role of the regulatory framework for corporate reporting and the stock market, and explore the pricing of securities. You will also cover the key areas of decision and risk analysis, alongside the process of decision making, key statistical concepts, and selecting and using appropriate analytical software tools as aids to decision making.
Expert Witnessing and Dispute Resolution: You will be able to examine the full range of formal and informal methods for dispute resolution within common law, and civil and criminal legal systems, whilst also developing an understanding of the legal and practical protocols alongside the procedural knowledge and etiquette governing the appointment and testimony of expert witnesses. You will also develop a clear understanding of the legal basis and critical elements required to construct an expert report for submission in civil and criminal proceedings.
Financial Forensics and Investigation: You will gain an understanding of the need for an holistic approach in the investigatory models applied so that you can develop a critical, questioning and evaluative approach in assessing financial data. You will consider the primary evidential elements with a particular emphasis on gathering information from interviews and examining key issues and innovative approaches.
Financial Crime and the Law: You will focus on an appreciation and understanding of the wide variety of financial crime and how the current regulatory framework and crime control statutes have developed to deal with them. Features of corporate integrity and management control systems will additionally instil an understanding of the development and needs of corporate governance in the context of the control theories of the firm.
Dissertation: This is a 15,000-word research project that combines a review of previous research undertaken in your chosen topic with your own data collection and analysis. This provides a unique opportunity for you to demonstrate the subject knowledge you have acquired, as well as your analytical abilities and problem-solving skills which are highly regarded by potential employers. During this phase, your research will be supervised by an experienced academic with expertise in your chosen topic area.

Programme Assessment

This course is heavily student focused. You will be given resources, materials, help and guidance to complete your studies to your full ability. Using our virtual learning environment you can participate in group discussions with other students in a friendly, yet challenging online class environment. Plus real-time, text-based 'chat sessions' with lecturers will ensure you receive all the support you need throughout the course.

You are assessed in a variety of ways to reflect the individual topics, although for the Distance Learning mode of delivery there are no examinations to sit. Our approaches to learning, assessment and feedback are varied and constructive, to help you build the personal management and employability skills that are essential for a fulfilling career.

Student Destinations

This course is an ideal route into a wide range of professional careers in litigation support, expert witnessing and fraud examination. On graduating you will be qualified for a number of roles in financial regulatory authorities, law firms, accountancy practices and law enforcement agencies. We liaise closely with employers and professional bodies to ensure that all our courses are relevant to their business and recruitment needs. Our overall aim is to help you find a fulfilling and financially rewarding job once you graduate.

Roles our graduates have taken on include:

Management accountant
Financial analyst
Internal auditor
Stockbroker
Account manager

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Why take this course?

Through the application of professional forensic accounting tools, models, techniques and knowledge, you will gain a comprehensive range of skills covering the three core areas of forensic accounting – litigation support, expert witnessing and fraud examination. You’ll learn to apply your specialised accounting skills in a range of areas including business valuation, assessment of economic damages, proceeds of crime, fraud and money laundering.

Depending on how much time you are able to commit to your study, we offer a two year or a 30 month duration, and our recommended study time per week would be around 12 and 18 hours respectively. We would strongly recommend that those students with full-time jobs or other commitments opt for the longer 30 month programme of study.

What will I experience?

On this course you can:

Investigate real-life case studies and learn the processes involved in compiling your own case
Participate in live web-based chat forums to discuss your work with lecturers and other students
Tap in to our Library’s vast selection of electronic resources, which can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection

What opportunities might it lead to?

One of the fastest growing areas of accounting, there is an increasing global demand for specialists with forensic accounting knowledge and skills. Our course therefore aims to provide a progressive, challenging and stimulating framework of study that will equip you to work in this field.

Here are some routes our graduates have pursued:

Audit and assurance
Taxation
Forensic accounting
Management accounting
Financial analysis
Treasury

Module Details

You will study a total of five units which consider a range of exciting topics such as corporate integrity and management control, fraud and forensic analysis, cybercrime and interviewing and testimony. You will learn how to investigate a case, gather evidence, prepare expert reports and provide evidence. The course then concludes with your dissertation where you’ll have the flexibility to specialise in an area of your choice such as fraud examination, litigation consulting or expert witnessing to name a few.

In the 30 month programme you will study two units in each of year one and year two, followed by the dissertation in the final year.

In the two year programme, you will study three units in year one followed by one unit and the dissertation in year two.

Here are the units you will study:

Financial Analysis and Modelling: You will gain a critical awareness of the financial environment from both an accounting and finance perspective. You will learn to understand, analyse and interpret company reports, examine the role of the regulatory framework for corporate reporting and the stock market, and explore the pricing of securities. You will also cover the key areas of decision and risk analysis, alongside the process of decision making, key statistical concepts, and selecting and using appropriate analytical software tools as aids to decision making.
Expert Witnessing and Dispute Resolution: You will be able to examine the full range of formal and informal methods for dispute resolution within common law, and civil and criminal legal systems, whilst also developing an understanding of the legal and practical protocols alongside the procedural knowledge and etiquette governing the appointment and testimony of expert witnesses. You will also develop a clear understanding of the legal basis and critical elements required to construct an expert report for submission in civil and criminal proceedings.
Financial Forensics and Investigation: You will gain an understanding of the need for an holistic approach in the investigatory models applied so that you can develop a critical, questioning and evaluative approach in assessing financial data. You will consider the primary evidential elements with a particular emphasis on gathering information from interviews and examining key issues and innovative approaches.
Financial Crime and the Law: You will focus on an appreciation and understanding of the wide variety of financial crime and how the current regulatory framework and crime control statutes have developed to deal with them. Features of corporate integrity and management control systems will additionally instil an understanding of the development and needs of corporate governance in the context of the control theories of the firm.
Dissertation: This is a 15,000-word research project that combines a review of previous research undertaken in your chosen topic with your own data collection and analysis. This provides a unique opportunity for you to demonstrate the subject knowledge you have acquired, as well as your analytical abilities and problem-solving skills which are highly regarded by potential employers. During this phase, your research will be supervised by an experienced academic with expertise in your chosen topic area.

Programme Assessment

This course is heavily student focused. You will be given resources, materials, help and guidance to complete your studies to your full ability. Using our virtual learning environment you can participate in group discussions with other students in a friendly, yet challenging online class environment. Plus real-time, text-based 'chat sessions' with lecturers will ensure you receive all the support you need throughout the course.

You are assessed in a variety of ways to reflect the individual topics, although for the Distance Learning mode of delivery there are no examinations to sit. Our approaches to learning, assessment and feedback are varied and constructive, to help you build the personal management and employability skills that are essential for a fulfilling career.

Student Destinations

This course is an ideal route into a wide range of professional careers in litigation support, expert witnessing and fraud examination. On graduating you will be qualified for a number of roles in financial regulatory authorities, law firms, accountancy practices and law enforcement agencies. We liaise closely with employers and professional bodies to ensure that all our courses are relevant to their business and recruitment needs. Our overall aim is to help you find a fulfilling and financially rewarding job once you graduate.

Roles our graduates have taken on include:

Management accountant
Financial analyst
Internal auditor
Stockbroker
Account manager

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Forensic accounting and the related discipline of forensic audit are fast-developing areas in the commercial world. The major professional accounting firms now have departments offering forensic accounting and audit services, and the demand for expertise in this area is growing exponentially.

There is a need for people with specialist skills who can undertake fraud investigations, valuations, assist in dispute resolution, prepare expert reports, and conduct fraud and forensic analysis.

Additionally, you will be required to evaluate the principles of good corporate governance and the integrity of management, and understand the role of computer forensic techniques in an investigatory and legal context.

See the website http://courses.southwales.ac.uk/courses/491-msc-forensic-audit-and-accounting

What you will study

On this course you will study 180 credits from the following modules:

- Corporate Governance (20 credits)
Learn about the systems by which companies are directed and controlled, and their implication for fraud prevention and abuses of power.

- Forensic Audit and Accounting (20 credits)
You will be introduced to the principles of forensic audit and accounting, including theoretical concepts allied to investigation and analysis.

- Research Methods for Finance and Accounting (20 credits)
Gain an appreciation of the academic research process and the underlying elements and principles, developing the skills to critically evaluate and conduct postgraduate research.

- Dissertation (60 credits)
Undertake a significant piece of research into an appropriate area of study.

You will study 60 credits from the following option modules:

- Computer Forensics and Crime Investigation (20 credits)
Learn about the techniques and practices of computer forensics, applied to practical problems encountered by forensic accounting investigators.

- Audit and Assurance in a Global Environment (20 credits)
Gain an appreciation of the knowledge, skills and professional judgement needed in a variety of audit and assurance engagements.

- Expert Witnesses and Dispute Resolution (20 credits)
Gain an understanding of the role of an expert, including dispute resolution methods, legal and procedural requirements for experts in pre-trial and court situations.

- Contemporary Issues (20 credits)
Consider contemporary theories and developments in accounting and auditing thought and practice, including forensic accounting.

Learning and teaching methods

The course is delivered full-time through a combination of lectures, tutorials, computer workshops, case study analysis and discussion groups. You will be exposed to real-life situations and given the skills and opportunities to find practical solutions. You will have the opportunity to use state-of-the-art computer forensic and data analysis software.

Work Experience and Employment Prospects

Employment opportunities are numerous, from specialist firms of forensic accountants to specialist departments within accountancy firms. There are many opportunities in the public and regulatory sectors, as well as employment prospects in commercial organisations, as part of investigatory, internal audit, and compliance departments. Recent graduates from this course are employed in the forensic accounting department of a ‘Big Four’ accountancy firm, and as a Fraud Investigator for a national public sector auditor.

Assessment methods

Assessment methods include examinations and coursework-based assignments.

Facilities

Specialist IT facilities are used where appropriate including audit and computer forensic software.

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The MSc Advanced Food Safety programme at QUB is tailored towards students who aim to or currently work within the agri-food sector. It will offer the opportunity to obtain a unique qualification in the field of food safety delivered by research-active scientists within the Institute for Global Food Security.

The major focus of the programme will be on new and emerging issues within the diverse field of food safety and it will concentrate on developments in analytical approaches used to monitor and regulate food safety with the view to protect human health.

Key topics covered will include: food fraud and traceability and the analytical methods used to detect fraud and ensure food safety and authenticity; the links between environmental chemical contaminants and biological hazards present in animal feed and human food - highlighting new emerging technologies that enable rapid and early detection of food safety incidents and diagnosis of animal diseases.

QUB MSc Advanced Food Safety Video: https://youtu.be/TFxBDS9mb-k

Content

Advanced Food Bioanalysis
Bio-entrepreneurship and Advanced Skills
Agri-food Traceability and Fraud
Food Safety, Health and Disease
Foundations for Research in the Biosciences
Literature Review
Research Project (triple module)

Assessment

Continuous assessment of coursework, examinations, and assessment of modules based solely on submitted work related to private individual study. A MSc will be awarded with Distinction to students who achieve a dissertation and average mark both exceeding 70 per cent, and with Commendation for marks over 60 per cent.

Opportunities for Careers

Excellent opportunities exist within agri-food companies, diagnostic research companies and regulatory testing laboratories. Graduates will also be in a position to progress to further PhD level research study.

Special Features

A major component will include the completion of a laboratory-based, food safety related research project within the Institute for Global Food Security, offering the opportunity to gain practical experience in the use of conventional and emerging bioanalytical technology platforms.

Facilities and capabilities include:
Biosensor instrumentation
Cell culture and microbiological suites
GC, HPLC and UPLC systems
Proteomic and metabolomic profiling
ICP, GC, qToF and QqQ mass spectrometers
Spectroscopic analysis
Real time PCR and surface plasmon resonance biosensor technology

Additional information for International students

http://www.qub.ac.uk/home/StudyatQueens/InternationalStudents/

Applicants who are non-EEA nationals must satisfy the UK Border Agency (UKBA) immigration requirements for English language for visa purposes, by providing evidence of an IELTS* score of 6.0, with not less than 5.5 in any component, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University.

*Taken within the last 2 yrs.

Please see http://go.qub.ac.uk/EnglishLanguageReqs for more information on English Language requirements for EEA and non-EEA nationals.


Up to date information on course fees can be found at: http://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/finance/TuitionFees/

The University provides information on possible sources of awards which is available at: http://www.qub.ac.uk/sites/PostgraduateCentre/PostgraduateFunding/

Information on the Institute for Global Food Security at Queen’s University Belfast can be found at: http://www.qub.ac.uk/Research/GRI/TheInstituteforGlobalFoodSecurity/


Visit the MSc Advanced Food Safety page on the Queen’s University Belfast web site for more details! (http://www.qub.ac.uk/Study/Course-Finder/PCF1718/PTCF1718/Course/AdvancedFoodSafety.html)

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IN BRIEF:

• Programme materials developed by industry experts and practitioners
• Access to relevant current materials
• Assessments based on developing industry relevant skills and knowlegde
• Part-time study option
• Work/industrial placement opportunity
• International students can apply

COURSE SUMMARY

The MSc Risk and Crisis Management (Food Safety Assurance) reflects the growing strategic importance of food and consumer product safety and specifically issues such as counterfeiting, contamination, economic and economically motivated adulteration and fraud.  The programme has been developed in collaboration with Red 24, a leading global risk management specialist with operating experience in over 120 countries.  As such the programme bridges the gap between commercial and academic worlds and provides an accredited curriculum covering:

• Strategic International Business Management
• Food Fraud and Malicious Product Tampering
• Crisis Management and Business Continuity
• Product Recall (Food and Non-Food)  
• Business Innovations Project

The programme is relevant for organisations offering CPD and also for those wishing to enter a managerial role within manufacturing and services.

'I see the launch of the MSc programme - Risk and Crisis Management (Food Safety Assurance) at the University of Salford as a welcome step forward for the food industry. The modules on offer will enhance the skills, knowledge and competency of staff working for my organisation and I look forward, in particular, to working with specialists from red24 who are award winning market leaders in the field of risk and crisis management. The course has come along at the right time as the complexity associated with food safety assurance increases'.  

Mr David Shingler - Sales Director, Towers Thompson.

TEACHING

The course is currently delivered in four blocks of three-day intensive study periods, followed by independent study and online support through the University’s virtual learning environment, Blackboard. Each module is taken and assessed over a six week block. 

From September 2017, this delivery format will change. Students will continue to study a single module for a 6 week period. Face to face teaching will be delivered on campus for two half days each week. In addition, you will attend the taught element of the Business Innovation Programme each Wednesday afternoon during the 6 week blocks, with independent study completed in your own time through Blackboard.  Individual student timetables will be provided during induction week.

The use of block events to deliver each module will enable the student to concentrate on one specific subject during the period in which the module is being delivered with the VLE providing further support and extending their understanding of a subject.

The School encourages a wide range of approaches to teaching, learning and assessment and typically a session will contain a mixture of activities: generally based around interactive lecturing, dealing with a number of specific issues/topics. The tutor introduces and explains key concepts and learning points, which are consolidated by class discussion and case study analysis to enhance understanding and to prepare for assessment.

Students will have the opportunity to access and engage with recorded and live webinars in the areas of Food Fraud and Malicious Product Tampering, Crisis Management and Business Continuity and Product Recall (Food and Non-Food).

An underlying principle of the learning and teaching strategy is to develop students as reflective practitioners and encourage engagement with continuous professional development.

ASSESSMENT

The assessment for the modules involves both formative and summative elements. Each module consists of two pieces of summative assessment including coursework, presentations, case studies etc. Formative assessments with feedback will be provided during the two, three day intensive teaching blocks, and through student centred activities which will be presented on the University Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). This will enable students to develop their knowledge and understanding of materials covered in each module.

The Business Innovation Project provides a choice between a dissertation, live project, internship or work placement, with a management research report and offers a further opportunity for students to apply their knowledge and skills in a less structured environment, further emphasising the student as an independent learner.

EMPLOYABILITY

Graduates may enter into a variety of food manufacturing roles including production, quality assurance and product design. In addition, they also enter into procurement roles and roles within associated sectors including insurance.

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The Master of Science in Control, Audit & Corporate Finance at ESC Clermont in France is a 14 to 18-month master programme taught entirely in English and accredited by the CGE. The programme raises experienced experts with the ability perform financial analysis and reporting, conduct audit missions, assess and control the risk of an activity. Those experts will evaluate corporate performance and put into place the necessary actions to manage and lead the business performance.

Students will be divided into diverse groups carrying out an audit project and mission in a local French company while mentored by professors and members of the company to gain valuable hands-on practical experience.

Students are also able to prepare for the CFE (Certified Fraud Examiner) exam thanks to a partnership with the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE), organization of the Bloomberg Aptitude Test (BAT) in our Campus.

Classes last from October to May, followed by an internship of a minimum of 4 months along with an executive report.

Students can obtain a dual-degree MSc. in Finance from ISCTE University in Portugal by spending an extra semester there.

Target

Young graduates and professionals who want to obtain strong technical knowledge, expertise and practical experience in the domains of Finance, Auditing and Risk Control.

Strengths

• Taught entirely in English
• Audit project in a company:Perform an audit missionmonitored by professors and professionals.
• Certifications and tools: Online resources and workbook to prepare for Fraud examination. Knowledge of financial modelling tools (ERP, Excel and VBA).
• Professional integration: Carry out an executive internship to hone your technical knowledge and managerial skills.

Professionalisation

Internship and Thesis

Each student of the Control, Audit & Corporate Finance Programme will do an internship or a job placement of a minimum of 4 months in France, Europe or any other location abroad.

The internship aims permits the students to bring the knowledge, expertise and tools learned in the classes into practice and obtain further professional experience.

Each student is individually supervised by a designated advisor and completes a professional thesis, followed by an oral defense and company assessment.

Companies that welcomed our students:

• Deloitte
• Société Générale
• Michelin
• Akka Technologies
• Allianz Informatique
• Crown Holdings Europe

Financing

Various flexible payment plans and scholarships are offered to international students.

Careers

On ‘Finance and Control Side

• Financial Analysis
• Management Control
• Bank, Insurance and Other Financial Services

 On ‘Audit and Risk Management’ side

• Compliance and Risk Management
• Business Continuity Management
• External Audit in consulting firms
• Internal Audit in multinational companies

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About the course

This course will enhance your accounting, finance or business-related skills and develop your career prospects in forensic accounting roles with organisations worldwide. It is designed to further students’ undergraduate business studies. While you will become familiar with all the following areas of forensic accounting, you will develop a deeper, specialist knowledge in one.

•Specialise in forensic accounting
This course enhances specialist knowledge and expertise for accountants, auditors and allied professionals and caters to professional practitioners seeking theoretical depth
•You may progress on to PhD level
You will develop research skills that will enable you to move on to study at a PhD level
•Participate in contests
We actively seek and partner in innovative learning experiences, for example, the ‘White-Collar Hacking Contest’ run by the Technical University of Munich
•Boost your employability potential
More than 96% of our graduate students are in further education or full-time employment six months after completing their course (DLHE 2015/16)
Gain practical experience in a variety of areas in Forensic Accounting by studying the new Digital Forensics Principles and Practice module

Teaching and assessment

Modules include formal lectures, tutorials, workshops, and interactive sessions.

Course modules

Fraud Examination and Investigation
Investment Valuation
Research Methods
Financial Crime and Law
Internal Control and Audit
Digital Forensics Principles and Practice

Elective taught modules may include:

Risk Management
Investment Fraud
Corporate Governance
Strategic and Financial Decision Making

Note: All modules are subject to change in order to keep content current.

Industry links and professional accreditation

De Montfort University is an ACCA Approved Learning Partner with Gold status and accredited by CIMA.

Graduate careers

The Department of Accounting and Finance has a strong work-related bias, offering professional, postgraduate and undergraduate courses. You will develop an advanced understanding of accounting and finance issues for the private and public sectors, both nationally and internationally, enhancing your career prospects with key financial skills sought after by many organisations.

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This online distance learning Global Food Security (Food Safety) postgraduate programme will be delivered by leading research active staff within the internationally recognised Institute for Global Food Security (IGFS) based at Queen’s University Belfast.

The programme will comprise modules focused on food safety and health, global food standards and legislation, analytical methods for food security, food integrity and fraud. Awards will be available at Postgraduate Certificate (PgCert) and Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip) level, and to Masters level following completion of a dissertation-based module.

This programme will be suitable for anyone who wants to know more about this increasingly important area, those working within the wider Agri-food industry sector including food production, processing and retail, regulatory and governmental control agencies, and research organisations.

Awards will be available at Postgraduate Certificate (PgCert) and Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip) level, and to Masters level following completion of a dissertation-based module.

Modern online technology and dynamic advanced audio and video tools will be employed to achieve a stimulating teaching and learning experience. This programme offers learners the opportunity to study this exciting and rapidly changing area taught by world experts within the field at their own pace (60 CATS per year) and within their chosen environment.

PgCert will cover the following modules:
- Food safety and health (30 CATS)
- Advanced analytical tools for food security (30 CATS)

PgDip will include modules in:
- Global food standards and legislation (30 CATS)
- Food integrity, fraud and traceability (30 CATS)

MSc Students will complete a research programme:
- Dissertation (60 CATS)

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The ability to understand and manage risk is vital for businesses to operate successfully and compete on a global scale.

Through a combination of academic study and working with industry on real business problems, you will gain advanced knowledge of how financial markets operate together with risk management practices, and develop the personal and professional skills you need to be a key player in this global, knowledge-based economy.

There are six entry points through the year. This allows you to start when it is most suitable. The entry points are:

• September
• November
• January
• March
• June
• July

Why choose this course?

• Study the related areas of financial markets and portfolio management, management accounting and financial planning, financial regulations and fraud management and strategic management
• Gain advanced knowledge of financial organisations and institutions as well as of government and corporate policies and the critical capabilities to apply theory to complex issues.
• Explore how finance professionals assess and manage risk in order to protect shareholders and other stakeholders from the adverse impact of unforeseen events.
• Develop your employability by undertaking a work placement with the opportunity to work on a live project
• Study with a Business School that has partners across the world enabling you to examine the cross culture perspectives essential to organisations in the global markets

Visit the website: https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/courses/postgraduate/next-year/financial-risk-management

Course detail

On this course you will undertake four 30 credit units and one 60 credit project unit.

Our courses are designed engaging, attractive and flexible in the current global marketplace. The six entry points through the year allow you to start when it is most suitable.

Your course takes place over three semesters. Depending upon when you join the course, this will determine the order of units which you will study. You will benefit by beginning your studies with others who started at one of the earlier points of entry.

• Induction Week
• Unit 1 (30 credits)
• Unit 2 (30 credits)
• Unit 3 (30 credits)
• Unit 4 (30 credits)
• Business/Law project (BLP) 60 credits

The structure provides an intense and highly rewarding learning experience. The induction week will prepare you well for study on your course. You will then study only one unit at a time, which will enable you to focus upon the subject. Our evidence-based approach is designed to enhance engagement and success by applied practice, working with others and network development. The learning delivery takes place through a mix of interactive lectures, seminars, tutorials and lab sessions, along with guided learning, independent and autonomous learning. This emphasis on active learning uses the latest in teaching and learning approaches, integrated with our employability practice-based method with real businesses to enable you to gain real experience as part of your course.

Modules (unit order depends on your start date):

• Management Accounting and Financial Planning
• Financial Regulation and Fraud Management
• Financial Markets and Portfolio Management
• Strategic Management

Capstone project

This Master's course provides the opportunity to undertake different types of project, a "Capstone" experience which completes the integration of your studies applied in one of the following:

• Professional Practice - the central aim of this unit is to provide you with a thorough understanding of the commercial context in which organisations operate. By reflecting upon your existing knowledge and experience you will be required to respond to a number of work-based scenarios through critical evaluation to determine an appropriate course of action.

• The Live Project - this will enable you to work as part of a team on a project provided by a business organisation. The exact nature of the level of work, and nature of responsibility will depend upon the chosen organisation. However, there will be close negotiation between the company and the Business School.

• The dissertation - this is a conventional dissertation of 12,000 to 15,000 words, enabling you to undertake in-depth research of a topic relating to your course. It will consist of research question, aims and objectives, rationale for undertaking the study, literature review, research methodology, analysis of findings, conclusions and recommendations.

Assessment

In line with our commitment to practice-based education, a large part of the assessment will relate to the demonstration of your ability to understand Financial Risk Management in practice.

It is the expectation of the course that you understand the theory and develop critical thinking skills, which will help you to evaluate the relevance of what you have learnt. All of this comes together by being able to demonstrate rigorous expertise for a business or related organisation.

Careers

By completing the course you will have the skills and find career opportunities in the following industries/areas:

• Risk Management
• Credit Risk Analysis
• Derivatives
• Insurance
• Finance Research

You will also be well prepared for further research study in either the MPhil, or PhD.

Funding

For information on available funding, please follow the link: https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/money/scholarships/pg

How to apply

For information on how to apply, please follow the link: https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/course/applicationform

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With the growing complexity of the business environment and the rising number of business related investigations, forensic accounting professionals are increasingly asked to assist in the investigation of financial and business related issues.

Northumbria’s Forensic Accounting MSc is for graduates seeking to enhance their financial investigation knowledge and skills. It aims to enable you to gain the technical and intellectual skills which will equip you to take full advantage of career opportunities as they arise.

Learning experience

You will be trained to look beyond the numbers and deal with the business realities of situations. The ability to analyse, interpret, summarise and present complex financial and business related issues are prominent features of the course.

You will be taught by academics who are specialists (with professional bodies’ accreditation) and who have advanced degrees and extensive scholarly publications in fraud, anti-money laundering, financial crimes and in legal procedures and evidence.

At Northumbria, we consider assessment to be a learning experience in itself. Assessments are designed not just to test your learning and skills development, but to provide more opportunities for the achievement of your learning goals through a varied range of assessment approaches that are primarily driven by individual assignments, but also include personal development planning, group and peer assessments, portfolios and reflective reports.

Module Overview
AF7000 - Forensic Accounting (Core, 20 Credits)
AF7001 - Fraud Examination (Core, 20 Credits)
AF7002 - Fraudulent Statement and Forensic Data Analysis (Core, 20 Credits)
AF7003 - Anti-Money Laundering, Bribery and Corruption (Core, 20 Credits)
NX0422 - Dissertation Preparation and Research Methods (Core, 0 Credits)
NX0472 - Developing Global Management Competencies I (Core, 20 Credits)
NX0473 - Developing Global Management Competencies II (Core, 20 Credits)
NX0475 - Academic and Professional Development (Core, 0 Credits)

Learning environment

As a full-time student, you will be supported though an interactive approach to sessions that will draw upon the directed learning undertaken and your own experiences. Throughout, the emphasis will be on high levels of participation, both individually and within small groups or teams. You can therefore expect the reflective-practitioner approach to learning that will be embedded in all sessions and to engage with activities that will help you apply theory to ‘real-life’ situations.

Research rich learning

Our academics undertake practice relevant research in a range of applied subject areas, enabling us to interpret developments in what is a very fast changing subject field. You are encouraged to undertake enquiry based learning, where you will be co-creators of your own knowledge and learning and also develop research, enquiry and team working skills.

Give your career an edge

You will receive a wealth of employment support as part of your Masters study. Core to this is the two-part module Developing Global Management Competencies. This module seeks to prepare you to be highly employable, enabling you to demonstrate your ability to make an immediate impact on any organisation you join after graduation. You will also be supported by industry facing activity including short-term internships and placement opportunities where possible.

Your future

Successful completion of the course will enable you to differentiate yourself in a sector that has become increasingly competitive. You can expect to gain employment in many areas including, public practice or insurance companies, banks, police forces and government agencies.

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This course is designed to enable graduate students and forensic practitioners to develop the theoretical knowledge underpinning forensic document examination and provide intensive training and practical experience. It covers the analysis of handwriting, signatures, questioned and fraudulent documents and provides training in the use of a range of highly specialised techniques, such as VSC, comparison microscopy, ESDA and Raman Spectroscopy.

LEARNING ENVIRONMENT AND ASSESSMENT

The dedicated laboratory for this course houses an ESDA and a VSC-5000 and this is where MSc students will take a wide range of practical classes, carry out simulated casework and conduct laboratory-based dissertation research projects. Students will also have access to a wide range of state-of-the-art analytical instrumentation within the Analytical Unit. The Unit houses gas chromatographs with pyrolysis injection capability and FID, MS and EC detectors, ion chromatographs and high performance liquid chromatographs with diode array fluorescence, MS and Differential refractometer detectors. The Unit also houses facilities for Atomic absorption, UV-Visible and Infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, NMR spectrometry, Inductive coupled plasma mass spectrometry and Scanning Electron Microscopy With Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (SEM/EDAX).

Modules will be assessed through theory and practical examinations, and coursework (essays, moot courts, presentations and a dissertation). Students will be required to examine documents and equipment, produce case notes and reports.

Please note that Distance Learning students will be required to attend a two-week residential workshop at UCLan’s Preston campus during Semester 2. More information will be provided about this in Semester 1.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Modules are assessed through theoretical and practical examinations as well as coursework. Assessments include the examination of suspect documents and pieces of equipment from simulated cases and the production of formal case notes and expert reports, as well as essays, mock courtroom trials, group and individual presentations and a dissertation. Upon graduating from this course you will be well placed to gain employment in forensic science laboratories, police investigation teams, fraud departments in major government or private organisations, or to go on to further research in academia.

MSc Document Analysis is designed to enable graduate students and forensic practitioners to understand and develop the theoretical knowledge underpinning all aspects of forensic document examination and to develop skills in a variety of areas, which concern the processing, analysis, identification and interpretation of questioned documents. The course provides intensive training in all areas of forensic document analysis and provides extensive practical training in the areas of the analysis and identification of handwriting, signatures, printing apparatus and fraudulent documents. The course also provides you with training to act as an expert witness and presentation and communication skills.

You will study the principles underpinning the scientific analysis of handwriting and signatures together with the considerations involved when carrying out forensic casework. This course will also provide practical experience in the examination of printing equipment, typewriters, photocopiers and the identification of forged or counterfeit documents. You will be trained in a number of analytical techniques using highly specialised apparatus, such as the use of the video spectral comparator, a comparison microscope, ESDA (Electrostatic Detection Apparatus) and a Raman Spectrometer. In addition, the course will provide you with the opportunity to develop a large number of transferable skills.

Upon graduating from this course you will be well placed to gain employment in forensic science laboratories, police investigation teams and fraud departments in major government or private organisations, or to go on to further research in academia at doctoral level.

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