Masters Degrees (Open University)

Urban and rural planning plays an important role in society, and affects the way we all live. Its main concern is with managing acceptable and sustainable environmental change in a constantly changing world, and being at the forefront of shaping that world for future generations.

Key benefits

This course is accredited by the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI), the UK's leading planning body and the largest planning institute in Europe. Taken with a minimum of two years' relevant experience and the RTPI's Assessment of Professional Competence, it provides the basis for election to RTPI membership, and the title 'Chartered Town Planner'.

Course detail

The MSc Urban and Rural Planning is led by UWE Bristol and delivered by a group of four UK planning Schools and the Open University. The four planning schools are:

• Department of Geography and Environmental Management, UWE
• Faculty of Arts, Environment and Technology, Leeds Beckett University
• Faculty of Arts and Human Sciences, London South Bank University
• School of the Environment, Dundee University

This course has the full support of the Open University, which provides a series of options for a 30-credit specialism in the final year of study.

We welcome applications from graduates with a relevant undergraduate degree, students with a degree in an unrelated area and non-graduates. Please see entry criteria for full details.

Completing the course successfully leads to the RTPI-recognised MSc in Urban and Rural Planning, awarded by UWE. Completing a structured programme of planning experience followed by RTPI's Assessment of Professional Competence leads to full RTPI membership.

Modules

• Context and law
• Local planning Strategic planning
• Urban and sustainable design principles
• International planning
• Implementation and management
• Research techniques
• Integrated planning project
• Open University specialism option module
• Dissertation

Format

As you learn, you not only study, but also receive vital professional experience logged by the RTPI towards your accreditation. This course presents a unique approach to professional planning education through the flexibility of how and when you study, and at what pace. You will receive web-based study support and guidance throughout.

Course materials, announcements, messages and links to other published resources are available online at our virtual learning platforms, Blackboard and Piazza so you'll need internet access to study the course. When you enrol, you receive your username and password.

It's not possible to cover everything you need to learn online, so there is some additional reading. In each of your three years of study there's an optional field trip that provides valuable opportunities for networking, group work, face-to-face learning and practical work, and provides an opportunity to meet your teaching team.

Placements

We encourage volunteer work during your studies, support students who wish to take gap years in employment, and work with consultants and expert speakers to give industry insights throughout the course.

Assessment

Assessment is through a variety of coursework and the dissertation.

Careers / Further study

The course leads to practice as a Chartered Urban and Rural Planner. It also provides a broader environmental education for graduates from other disciplines. Studying the Open University specialism can help you progress towards a variety of Master's-level qualifications. Career options include joining planning companies or consultancies, working for local government, charities, housing companies or house builders or you could take a role with a pressure group or in economic regeneration, conservation or heritage, or even go into property development yourself.

How to apply

Information on applications can be found at the following link: http://www1.uwe.ac.uk/study/applyingtouwebristol/postgraduateapplications.aspx

Funding

- New Postgraduate Master's loans for 2016/17 academic year –

The government are introducing a master’s loan scheme, whereby master’s students under 60 can access a loan of up to £10,000 as a contribution towards the cost of their study. This is part of the government’s long-term commitment to enhance support for postgraduate study.

Scholarships and other sources of funding are also available.

More information can be found here: http://www1.uwe.ac.uk/students/feesandfunding/fundingandscholarships/postgraduatefunding.aspx

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Adult education is recognised in Europe as a critical element in addressing the key international economic and social challenges of our time. This joint degree is delivered and awarded by four partners within the consortium: the University of Glasgow, the University of Malta, the Open University of Cyprus and Tallinn University.

Why this programme

◾Glasgow is the leading partner in the consortium of universities that have developed this programme. The other universities are University of Malta, Open University of Cyprus, Tallinn University and Universiti Sains Malaysia.
◾A distinctive feature of this programme is the connection between theory and practice, gained through focused placements and mobility periods between the partner universities.
◾It draws together the recognised strengths of the consortium partners into a relevant, joint degree that engages with and responds to such issues as social inequality, migration and intercultural cooperation.
◾The programme aims to deliver a curriculum that enables people to work with adults effectively and competently in changing socially diverse contexts.
◾You will receive a theoretical grounding in adult education, as well as intercultural and practical skills development through teaching placements, focused seminars and online courses.

Programme structure

You will take nine core courses and submit a dissertation. Courses are delivered in Glasgow, Malta and Tallinn. Open University of Cyprus courses will be delivered online at Tallinn and Malta. The programme includes three credit-bearing adult learning placements. There is also the opportunity to attend a summer school in Penang at Universiti Sains Malaysia or undertake an internship at UNESCO in Hamburg, Germany as part of the summer mobility period.

You will have three (possibly four) mobility periods, having the opportunity to spend a semester and a summer at the partner universities. The programme has been designed so that students benefit from the specific expertise of each of the partners and have a short placement built into each of the mobility periods. The programme combines expertise of Adult Education in the following contexts and mobility periods
◾Semester 1: September - December (Glasgow); Community learning/city regeneration environments + placement
◾Semester 2: January - May (Malta); Refugee environments including English language teaching to migrants in times of austerity + placement + research methods (online by Cyprus)
◾Summer (optional): June - August (Penang or Hamburg); Peace studies + sustainability or internship
◾Semester 3: September - January (Tallinn); Recognising prior learning and professionalising the role of adult educators + placement + teaching adult education online (online by Cyprus)
◾Semester 4: February - July (Glasgow, Malta or Tallinn, depending on focus of dissertation)

Core courses

Year 1
◾Adult education and social difference
◾Adult learning placements (1 & 2)
◾Curriculum development in adult education
◾International issues in adult education
◾Introduction to adult education
◾Practical aspects of adult education
◾Psychology of adult learning
◾Research methods.

Year 2
◾Adult learning placement (3)
◾Social competencies of adult education
◾Teaching adult education online
◾Theories of change.

Optional courses (summer mobility)
◾Internship
◾Peace studies
◾Sustainability.

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MSc in Development Management

This MSc provides learning opportunities, culminating in a research project that will enhance your capacity to manage development. If you have responsibility for development interventions, you will find your practice challenged and developed. If you are a professional – engineer, health worker, educationalist, banker, for example – working in development contexts, you will develop an understanding of those contexts, and a grasp of the skills necessary to negotiate them. And if you are thinking about moving into development work, you will find a guide to the world you are entering and build up a variety of skills needed to manage development.

Key features of the course

• Links a critical understanding of theory with the realities of development, policy and practice
• Develops key skills, including strategic thinking and planning, relationship building, mapping and modelling, negotiation and brokering
• Builds the research skills needed to create evidence-based understandings of development management problems and to make cases for change
• Encourages critically reflective practice, produces practitioners willing and competent to ask questions about how development is being managed, and how it might be managed better.

This qualification is eligible for a Postgraduate Loan available from Student Finance England.

Modules

There are two routes through this qualification:

•Route A for students starting their studies from May 2015 onwards
•Route B for students who started their studies before May 2015. If you are following this route you must complete your studies by 31 December 2021.

For both routes, we recommend that you study Capacities for managing development (T878) before Institutional development (TU872).
If you are interested in international development, and in particular if you are new to the subject, we recommend that you begin with the optional module Development: context and practice (T877) before moving on to T878 and TU872.
You must finish your MSc with the Development management project (TU874).

You can find additional information about postgraduate development management studies on the OU Development Policy and Practice website.

Route A – to gain this qualification, you need 180 credits as follows:

90 credits of compulsory modules:

Compulsory modules

• Capacities for managing development (T878)
• Conflict and development (T879)
• Institutional development (TU872)

Plus

60 credits from this list (or 30 credits plus 30 credits from any other postgraduate modules):

Optional modules

• Business, human rights law and corporate responsibility (W822)
• Development: context and practice (T877)
• Leading healthcare improvements (K827)
• Making environmental decisions (T891)
• Managing systemic change: inquiry, action, and interaction (TU812)
• MBA stage 1: management: perspectives and practice (B716)
• MBA stage 1: management: perspectives and practice (fast-track) (BXFT716)
• Problem solving and improvement: quality and other approaches (T889)
• Project management (M815)
• Thinking strategically: systems tools for managing change (TU811)

Plus

Compulsory module

• Development management project (TU874)

Route B – to gain this qualification, you need 180 credits as follows:

60 credits of compulsory modules:

Compulsory modules

• Capacities for managing development (T878)
• Institutional development (TU872)

Plus

90 credits from this list (or 60 credits plus 30 credits from any other postgraduate modules):

Optional modules

• Business, human rights law and corporate responsibility (W822)
• Conflict and development (T879)
• Development: context and practice (T877)
• Leading healthcare improvements (K827)
• Making environmental decisions (T891)
• Managing systemic change: inquiry, action, and interaction (TU812)
• MBA stage 1: management: perspectives and practice (B716)
• MBA stage 1: management: perspectives and practice (fast-track) (BXFT716)
• Problem solving and improvement: quality and other approaches (T889)
• Project management (M815)
• Thinking strategically: systems tools for managing change (TU811)

Plus

Compulsory module

• Development management project (TU874)

The modules quoted in this description are currently available for study. However, as we review the curriculum on a regular basis, the exact selection may change over time.

Credit transfer

If you have already completed some successful study at postgraduate level at another institution you may be able to transfer credit for this study and count it towards this Open University qualification. If you wish to apply to transfer credit you must do so as soon as possible as it may affect your choice of OU modules. If you are awarded credit for study completed elsewhere, you may find that you need to study fewer OU modules to complete your qualification with us. Visit our Credit Transfer site for more information and details of how to apply for credit transfer.

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MSc in Advanced Networking

This MSc course is ideal for professionals needing knowledge and experience of advanced networking and research methods, and is also an excellent basis for further studies at doctoral level. It consists of four professional vocational modules, which include Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) materials, and either a final research project or a professional project combined with study of digital forensics – drawing together the knowledge and skills you have gained and developing the skills required to address problems systematically.

Key features of the course

•Offers a choice of research or professional routes
•Develops your skill set with the largest Cisco Networking academy in the UK
•Draws on the latest CCNP, CISSP and CCNA-S curriculum
•Provides the knowledge, understanding, and skills needed to install, configure and maintain local and wide area networks
•Includes hands-on experience of using online tools and configuring networks.
This qualification is eligible for a Postgraduate Loan available from Student Finance England.

Modules

To gain this qualification, you need 180 credits as follows:

Stage 1

Advanced routing – CCNP Route (T824) is the foundation module and should normally be studied first. You can study the remaining modules in any order, but if you are taking one module each presentation, we recommend that you study them in the order shown.
Note: you can take the Cisco components of T824 (Route), T828 and T826 (Switch) in any order. You must successfully complete both Route and Switch (or their predecessors BSCI and BCMSN) before taking the Cisco component of T827 (TShoot).

Choose 120 credits from the following compulsory modules:

• Advanced routing – CCNP 1 (T824)
• Network security (T828)
• Multilayer switching – CCNP 3 (T826)
• Optimising networks – CCNP 4 (T827)

Completion of Stage 1 will entitle you to claim the Postgraduate Diploma in Advanced Networking (E51).

Plus

Stage 2

This MSc offers a choice of routes after you have completed Stage 1. The research route involves producing a dissertation to develop your academic research skills; while the professional route is a more discipline-oriented qualification combining study of digital forensics with an investigative project in advanced networking.

Choose 60 credits from either the Research route or the Professional route:

Research route

Compulsory module:

• Research project (T802)

Professional route

Compulsory modules:

• Digital forensics (M812)
• The MSc professional project (T847)

The modules quoted in this description are currently available for study. However, as we review the curriculum on a regular basis, the exact selection may change over time.

Credit transfer

If you have already completed some successful study at postgraduate level at another institution you may be able to transfer credit for this study and count it towards this Open University qualification. If you wish to apply to transfer credit you must do so as soon as possible as it may affect your choice of OU modules. If you are awarded credit for study completed elsewhere, you may find that you need to study fewer OU modules to complete your qualification with us. Visit our Credit Transfer site for more information and details of how to apply for credit transfer.

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MSc in Computing

This qualification develops a rigorous approach to the study and application of computing, and incorporates transferable skills that are highly applicable to professional development in the field. You can choose between the flexible MSc in Computing (offering a wide choice of industry relevant modules), and the more focused MSc in Computing (Software Engineering) or MSc in Computing (Information Security and Forensics), which enable you to develop in-depth specialist knowledge. All three routes finish with a substantial independent project, with either a professional or research orientation. The professional project engages in a research scenario in an employment-related setting of your choice, while the research project enables you to design a research proposal relating to an issue or problem of professional relevance to you or an employer, institution or public body.

Key features of the course

•Brings together theory and practice and draws on your own background and experience
•Enables you to tailor your studies to your specific career needs and professional interests
•Provides an excellent platform for further research studies.

This qualification is eligible for a Postgraduate Loan available from Student Finance England.

Modules

There are three pathways available for this degree:

•MSc in Computing
•MSc in Computing (Software Engineering)
•MSc in Computing (Information Security and Forensics)

We advise you to begin with modules from the first list for each pathway before moving on to the second.

MSc in Computing

To gain this qualification, you need 180 credits as follows:

60 credits from the optional modules in List A:

List A:

• Data management (M816)
• Digital forensics (M812)
• Information security (M811)
• Project management (M815)
• Software development (M813)
• Software engineering (M814)

Plus

A further 60 credits from List A, or from List B:

List B: optional modules

• Advanced routing CCNP 1 (T824)
• Continuing professional development in practice (U810)
• Managing systemic change: inquiry, action and interaction (TU812)
• Managing technological innovation (T848)
• Network security (T828)
• Problem solving and improvement: quality and other approaches (T889)
• Strategic capabilities for technological innovation (T849)
• Thinking strategically: systems tools for managing change (TU811)

Plus

60 credits from either the Research route or Professional route:

Research route

Compulsory module

• Research project (T802)

Professional route

Compulsory module

• The MSc professional project (T847)

Plus

A further 30 credits from List B, or any 30-credit module at OU Level 3 or above.

MSc in Computing (Software Engineering)

To gain this qualification, you need 180 credits as follows:

60 credits of compulsory modules (starting with M813):

Compulsory modules

• Software development (M813)
• Software engineering (M814)

Plus

60 credits from List C:

List C: optional modules

• Advanced routing CCNP 1 (T824)
• Continuing professional development in practice (U810)
• Data management (M816)
• Digital forensics (M812)
• Information security (M811)
• Managing systemic change: inquiry, action and interaction (TU812)
• Managing technological innovation (T848)
• Network security (T828)
• Problem solving and improvement: quality and other approaches (T889)
• Project management (M815)
• Strategic capabilities for technological innovation (T849)
• Thinking strategically: systems tools for managing change (TU811)

Plus

60 credits from either the Research route or Professional route:

Research route

Compulsory module

• Research project (T802)

Professional route

Compulsory module

• The MSc professional project (T847)

Plus a further 30 credits from List C, or any 30-credit module at OU Level 3 or above.

MSc in Computing (Information Security and Forensics)

To gain this qualification, you need 180 credits as follows:

60 credits of compulsory modules (starting with M811):

Compulsory modules

• Information security (M811)
• Digital forensics (M812)

Plus

60 credits from List D:

List D: optional modules

• Advanced routing CCNP 1 (T824)
• Continuing professional development in practice (U810)
• Data management (M816)
• Managing systemic change: inquiry, action and interaction (TU812)
• Managing technological innovation (T848)
• Network security (T828)
• Problem solving and improvement: quality and other approaches (T889)
• Project management (M815)
• Software development (M813)
• Software engineering (M814)
• Strategic capabilities for technological innovation (T849)
• Thinking strategically: systems tools for managing change (TU811)

Plus

60 credits from either the Research route or Professional route:

Research route

Compulsory module

• Research project (T802)

Professional route

Compulsory module

• The MSc professional project (T847)

Plus a further 30 credits from List D, or any 30-credit module at OU Level 3 or above.

The modules quoted in this description are currently available for study. However, as we review the curriculum on a regular basis, the exact selection may change over time.

Credit transfer

If you have already completed some successful study at postgraduate level at another institution you may be able to transfer credit for this study and count it towards this Open University qualification. If you wish to apply to transfer credit you must do so as soon as possible as it may affect your choice of OU modules. If you are awarded credit for study completed elsewhere, you may find that you need to study fewer OU modules to complete your qualification with us.

Visit our Credit Transfer site for more information and details of how to apply for credit transfer.

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This MSc course explores the way we think about and approach tasks or situations. Everyone brings with them their own perspective, which means that we all see things in different ways. The discipline of systems thinking in practice will provide you with the tools to challenge your approach to complex situations, consider the roles other people play, and assess how different components within those situations are related. You will also develop the skills needed to think more holistically and work more collaboratively to avoid systemic failures.

Key features of the course

•Offers you the choice of a research route or a professional route
•Both routes develop essential skills for addressing systems thinking issues systematically in your own context, and extend your knowledge of recent research and research methods
•Concludes with either a substantial piece of independent study on a topic of professional interest to you, or a more academic in-depth research project.

This qualification is eligible for a Postgraduate Loan available from Student Finance England. For more information, see our fees and funding web page.

You can take a number of different routes towards your qualification. Please visit our website to see some suggested routes.

Modules

To gain this qualification, you need 180 credits as follows:

Stage 1

60 credits of compulsory modules:

Compulsory modules

• Thinking strategically: systems tools for managing change (TU811)
• Managing systemic change: inquiry, action and interaction (TU812)

Plus

60 credits from List A:

Please see the module descriptions for any specific entry requirements before making your choice.

List A – optional modules

• Advanced routing - CCNP 1 (T824)
• Capacities for managing development (T878)
• Conflict and development (T879)
• Continuing professional development in practice (U810)
• Data management (M816)
• Development: context and practice (T877)
• Digital forensics (M812)
• Earth science: a systems approach (S808)
• Entrepreneurship: experience and perspective (BB846)
• Information security (M811)
• Institutional development: conflicts, values and meanings (TU872)
• Leadership and management in intercultural contexts (BB848)
• Leading healthcare improvements (K827)
• MBA stage 1: management: perspectives and practice (B716)
• MBA stage 1: management: perspectives and practice (fast-track)* (BXFT716)
• Making environmental decisions (T891)
• Management beyond the mainstream (BB847)
• Managing for sustainability (T867)
• Managing technological innovation (T848)
• Manufacture materials design (T805)
• Marketing in the 21st century (BB844)
• Multi-layer switching - CCNP 3 (T826)
• Network security (T828)
• Optimising networks - CCNP 4 (T827)
• Problem solving and improvement: quality and other approaches (T889)
• Project management (M815)
• Software development (M813)
• Software engineering (M814)
• Strategic capabilities for technological innovation (T849)
• Strategic human resource management (BB845)
• Sustainable creative management (BB842)

* This version is for accelerated study and requires you to devote 20-25 hours a week to your studies.

Completion of Stage 1 will entitle you to claim the Postgraduate Diploma in Systems Thinking in Practice (E28).

Plus

Stage 2

This MSc offers a choice of routes after you have completed Stage 1; a research route or a more business-oriented professional route.

60 credits from either the Research route or the Professional route:

Research route

Compulsory module

• Research project (T802)

Professional route

Compulsory module

• The MSc professional project (T847)

Plus an additional 30 credits from List A in Stage 1 above

The modules quoted in this description are currently available for study. However, as we review the curriculum on a regular basis, the exact selection may change over time.

Credit transfer

If you have already completed some successful study at postgraduate level at another institution you may be able to transfer credit for this study and count it towards this Open University qualification. If you wish to apply to transfer credit you must do so as soon as possible as it may affect your choice of OU modules. If you are awarded credit for study completed elsewhere, you may find that you need to study fewer OU modules to complete your qualification with us. Visit our Credit Transfer site for more information on how to apply.

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From improving a company’s competitive edge and complying with environmental legislation to addressing the global challenges of climate change and energy conservation, environmental management affects us all.

This qualification is designed to expand your knowledge of environmental management and develop the skills to participate in more effective, informed and creative environmental decision making – whether you’re already a specialist working in the field or planning to get involved, professionally or personally. You will examine current concerns of environmental protection, natural resource management and rapidly changing environmental legislation and policy, in local and global contexts. You’ll also develop the skills you need to unpack the issues and participate creatively in the process of improving environmental performance in all sectors of society.

Key features of the course

•Develops essential skills for successfully addressing environmental issues
•A choice of professional or research routes
•Provides a rigorous approach to solving complex real world problems.

This qualification is eligible for a Postgraduate Loan available from Student Finance England.

Modules

To gain this qualification, you need 180 credits as follows:

Stage 1

You can study the modules in any order. The alternative modules Environmental monitoring and protection (T868) or Capacities for managing development (T878) focus on scientific or social aspects of environmental management (you can also study both to gain an all-round understanding):

•In Environmental monitoring and protection (T868) you will work with numerical data in the quantitative assessment of environmental impacts and develop technological solutions to reducing environmental pollution.
•Capacities for managing development (T878) introduces the subject of development and teaches a range of management skills that are useful in all disciplines, strategic thinking, research, advocacy, planning and policy making.

Compulsory modules

• Making environmental decisions (T891)
• Managing for sustainability (T867)

Plus

30 credits from List A:

List A: optional modules

• Capacities for managing development (T878)
• Environmental monitoring and protection (T868)

Plus

30 credits from List B:

List B: optional modules

• Capacities for managing development (T878)
• Environmental monitoring and protection (T868)
• Managing systemic change: inquiry, action and interaction (TU812)
• Problem solving and improvement: quality and other approaches (T889)
• Project management (M815)
• Thinking strategically: systems tools for managing change (TU811)

Completion of Stage 1 will entitle you to claim the Postgraduate Diploma in Environmental Management (E79).

Plus

Stage 2

This MSc offers a choice of routes after you have completed Stage 1; a research route or a professional route.

If you need a more professionally-oriented qualification, you can take the 30-credit module The MSc professional project (T847) and complete your qualification with a module from a short list of relevant options.

If you prefer a more research-oriented MSc, you can take the 60-credit Research project (T802). The longer research project allows more in-depth study and further develops your academic research skills.

Both modules provide an excellent platform for further research studies.

Research route

Compulsory module

• Research project (T802)

Professional route

Compulsory module

• The MSc professional project (T847)

Plus 30 credits from optional modules in List A or List B in Stage 1 above.

The modules quoted in this description are currently available for study. However, as we review the curriculum on a regular basis, the exact selection may change over time.

Credit transfer

If you have already completed some successful study at postgraduate level at another institution you may be able to transfer credit for this study and count it towards this Open University qualification. If you wish to apply to transfer credit you must do so as soon as possible as it may affect your choice of OU modules. If you are awarded credit for study completed elsewhere, you may find that you need to study fewer OU modules to complete your qualification with us.

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MSc in Advancing Healthcare Practice

This course is designed to equip you with knowledge, understanding and skills relevant to the advancement of healthcare. You will explore what healthcare improvement means and how it can be achieved through collaboration and partnership, change agency, and the field of improvement science; develop leadership skills in relation to policy, innovation and service improvement; and learn how to use research, evidence-based practice and skills development to support healthcare advancement. The final investigative project focuses on a service or system improvement based on the needs and the priorities of your own health related practice area.

Key features of the course

• Encourages you to consult with practice colleagues locally and make strategic recommendations for change, drawing on evidence and experience
• Develops skills in the conception, design and conduct of research that has significance and benefit in the practice setting
• Includes a project that is of immediate and clear benefit to stakeholders in healthcare
• Explores how to disseminate your discoveries to others and how your improved practice might be shared more widely

This qualification is eligible for a Postgraduate Loan available from Student Finance England.

Modules

To gain this qualification you require 180 credits from the following compulsory modules which must be studied in the order listed below:

• Leading healthcare improvements (K827)
• Researching and evaluating healthcare practice (K828)
• Transforming professional practice (K829)

The modules quoted in this description are currently available for study. However, as we review the curriculum on a regular basis, the exact selection may change over time.

Credit Transfer

If you have already completed some successful study at postgraduate level at another institution you may be able to transfer credit for this study and count it towards this Open University qualification. If you wish to apply to transfer credit do this as soon as possible as it may affect your choice of OU modules. If you are awarded credit for study completed elsewhere, you may find that you need to study fewer OU modules to complete your qualification with us. Visit our Credit Transfer site for more information and details of how to apply.

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This Master’s degree is a unique opportunity to study the theory and practice of online and distance education, putting you at the forefront of the latest developments in the field.

The program includes a postgraduate certificate and postgraduate diploma in Online and Distance Education, presented by The Open University's renowned Institute of Educational Technology.

The course is open to students in nearly all countries in the world, so you will work with colleagues of a diverse range of backgrounds, completing modules designed by experts from the institute known for reinventing open and digital learning.

Key features of the course

• Explore research and practice literature in technology-enhanced learning, and the implications of learning technology choices made in a wide range of contexts
• Investigate the use of open educational resources, learning analytics, social media and open content by students and teachers
• Improve your ability to select, design, implement and critique technology-enhanced learning, as well as your understanding of how technologies engage learners and how they can be continually evaluated and developed
• Use your new skills in a wide range of occupations. Previous alumni include librarians, media professionals, project managers, consultants, entrepreneurs, practice educators in nursing, and web developers.

Postgraduate loans

This qualification is eligible for a Postgraduate Loan available from Student Finance England.

Course details

Compulsory module

• Technology-enhanced learning: practices and debates (H800)

Plus 60 credits from List A:

List A: Core optional modules

• Accessible online learning: supporting disabled students (H810)
• Openness and innovation in e-learning (H817)
• The networked practitioner (H818)
• The critical researcher: educational technology in practice (H819)

Plus a further 60 points from List A or list B:

List B: Optional module

• Understanding children’s development and learning (ED841)

The modules quoted in this description are currently available for study. However, as we review the curriculum on a regular basis, the exact selection may change over time.

Credit transfer

If you’ve successfully completed some relevant postgraduate study elsewhere, you might be able to count it towards this qualification, reducing the number of modules you need to study. You should apply as soon as possible, before you register for your first module.

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This exciting and innovative multi-professional open learning course is designed for health, education and social care professionals and those with an interest in this dynamic area of work. It aims to challenge and extend the knowledge base, skills and attitudes of those working in, or interested in the field of children, young people and family wellbeing. It critically analyses the evidence-base for such work, and examines interventions that link to positive outcomes.

The programme is offered as open learning only. It is open to home, EU and international students interested in child and adolescent wellbeing, and who want to interact with other graduates and professionals in an online research-based environment. It is taught by experts with a strong record of research and publications in the area.

Please note: course content is scheduled for a forthcoming review and there may be minor changes to the course entry following this review in mid-January 2016. Please continue to check the course entry for the most up to date details.

See the website http://www.brookes.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/child-welfare-and-wellbeing/

Why choose this course?

You will benefit from:
- Teaching by highly qualified staff - many of the teaching team have reputations for excellence in their research fields both nationally and internationally.

- A course that has been designed to maximise flexibility.

- The course can be taken part-time, including, on a module by module basis, building to the PGCert (three modules), a PGDip (six modules), or to a full MSc (nine modules including a triple dissertation module).

- It can be studied by those in full-time or part-time employment.

- The convenience of studying at home with regular periods of concentrated online study with other students on the course.

- Teaching which is delivered through state-of-the-art learning technologies via our Moodle platform.

- Excellent support in the on-line environment by lecturers who are experts in their subject areas, in the child welfare and drug and alcohol fields.

- A lively and exciting department.

- Excellent opportunities for shared learning, with students from many different backgrounds and locations.

- Strong links with Oxford Brookes University’s Children and Families Research Group.

- If you are a social worker or health care professional this course will contribute to ongoing CPD with a focus on learning and continuous improvement.

Teaching and learning

The MSc in Child Welfare and Wellbeing by open learning offers exciting opportunities to those who may be unable to attend university full-time but want to study to an advanced level in a stimulating and dynamic online environment.

Web based open learning materials are provided to guide you during your studies.

You will encounter a variety of innovative online teaching methods, which are designed to support your needs as an open learner.

Approach to assessment

Assessment is mostly on the basis of coursework. A broad range of assessment approaches are used on the course, including essays, critical reviews, case studies, research proposal and virtual presentations. Formative assessment is used extensively to enable you to develop the skills and knowledge required for your summative assignments. Coursework is designed to help you develop a wide range of transferable skills in research, communication and team working.

If you wish to obtain the full MSc in Child Welfare and Wellbeing, the dissertation provides an opportunity to conduct a piece of investigative research that will further your understanding and facilitate the development of a specific area of study.

Specialist facilities

Fully open learning and highly flexible mode of study in the University’s virtual learning environment.

Teaching is delivered through state-of-the-art learning technologies via our Moodle platform.

The programme is delivered by open learning but runs within the University's standard calendar of semesters so there will be specific activities to do each week during the semester and deadlines to meet for coursework submission. During the module you can interact with course tutors and fellow students, enabling for instance, discussion of topics of current interest in child welfare and wellbeing.

Attendance pattern

This is a fully open learning online course, so attendance at the University is not required. It is a highly flexible mode of study and as a course participant you study at a time and place that suits you.

Careers

Our course attracts graduates from a wide range of disciplines. Candidates from around the world enrol on the course to learn about child welfare and wellbeing from an international perspective.
Many students undertaking the MSc in Child Welfare and Wellbeing either work in the children and families field or want to gain future employment in this area of work.

This course supports students in their professional career development as it provides an excellent foundation in the theoretical and research underpinnings of work with children and families.

It is also helpful for people working in the field who are seeking, for the purpose of career advancement, knowledge outside their own specialist area.

The content of modules (ie child protection, substance misuse, evidence informed interventions in child welfare) is highly relevant to the workplace and will enhance your knowledge and understanding of the multiple factors that correlate with outcomes for children and young people.

Students undertaking this course have gone on to work for charitable organisations internationally and in the UK, while others have successfully gained professional promotion or developed their leadership and specialist roles.

Undertaking a research dissertation provides an opportunity to conduct a small piece of investigative research relating to child welfare and wellbeing. This is an opportunity to gain first hand research experience and may lead some to further academic study at PhD level.

Free language courses for students - the Open Module

Free language courses are available to full-time undergraduate and postgraduate students on many of our courses, and can be taken as a credit on some courses.

Please note that the free language courses are not available if you are:
- studying at a Brookes partner college
- studying on any of our teacher education courses or postgraduate education courses.

Research highlights

The course is taught by academics with a rich track record in research and publication in the children and families and drug and alcohol fields.

The master's course has close links with the Children and Families Research Group. This group brings together researchers, MSc and PhD students, lecturers, practitioners and external researchers and speakers who have an interest in child welfare and wellbeing and who wish to develop research in this area. Members of the group also contribute to the development of national and international policy guidance.

We are also a strategic collaborator with Action for Children and Work closely with BASPCAN (the British Association for the Study and Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect) and the European Society for Prevention Research (EUSPR).

Our group also has collaborative research links with colleagues in Psychology and Nutrition at Oxford Brookes University, with colleagues from a number of NHS Trusts and Local Authorities and externally with several universities throughout the UK and internationally with universities in Finland, Japan, Australia and Canada.

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Master of Business Administration (MBA)

This triple-accredited MBA course is designed for practising managers aspiring to higher positions. The emphasis for your learning is directly rooted in management practice. You will focus on strategic analysis, interdisciplinary skills, intellectual stimulation and independent judgement – building on a solid foundation of core disciplines, including human resource management, organisational behaviour, accounting and finance, marketing and operations. You will learn to analyse, synthesise and evaluate a wide range of situations within the broad framework of organisations, their external context and internal management. Among these you will explore economic, environmental, social and technological change issues, corporate governance, markets and customers, managing resources and operations, financing organisations, management and development of people, developing information technologies for application in business and management within a global knowledge-based economy, and development of appropriate business policies and strategies within a changing context to meet stakeholder interests.

Key features of the course

• Practice-based learning brings your MBA into life at your workplace
• Flexible options enable you to adjust the curriculum to suit your needs
• Strong international emphasis essential for developing leaders in a global marketplace
• Join an influential network of over 25,000 alumni in 100 countries when you graduate


This qualification is eligible for a Postgraduate Loan available from Student Finance England.

Compulsory module:

• MBA stage 1: management: perspectives and practice (B716)
• MBA stage 1: management: perspectives and practice (fast-track)* (BXFT716)
*This version is for the accelerated study route and should only be selected if you intend to complete your MBA in two years.

Stage 2

45 credits from the following compulsory modules:

• The dynamics of strategy (BB835)
• Corporate finance (BB831)

Plus

45 credits from the following optional modules:

• Business, human rights law and corporate social responsibility (W822)
• Entrepreneurship: experience and perspective (BB846)
• Leadership and management in intercultural contexts (BB848)
• Management beyond the mainstream (BB847)
• Managing financial risk (BB841)
• Managing in the digital economy (BXM871)
• Marketing in the 21st century (BB844)
• Strategic human resource management (BB845)
• Supply chain management (BB849)
• Sustainable creative management (BB842)

Plus

A 30 credit compulsory module:

• Making a difference: the management initiative (B839)

Credit Transfer

If you’ve successfully completed some relevant postgraduate study elsewhere, you might be able to count it towards this qualification, reducing the number of modules you need to study. You should apply for credit transfer as soon as possible, before you register for your first module. For more details and an application form, visit our Credit Transfer website.

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MSc in Finance

This qualification is designed to support professional development and practice in a wide range of roles in finance – whether you are developing in your career or aspiring to enter the sector. It provides a thorough grounding in areas such as corporate finance, financial decision-making, financial reporting and governance. It develops competences in applying statistical and econometric techniques, and equips you with knowledge of the fundamentals of Islamic finance and behavioural finance. You can choose to specialise either in derivatives and financial risk management, or in investment and portfolio management, and you will develop research skills and techniques relevant to higher academic qualifications by completing a dissertation on a finance topic of your choice that is relevant to your interests or chosen career development.

Key features of the course

• Provides an up-to-date perspective on both theory and practice in national and international contexts
• Acquire and apply the most important tools for financial, statistical and econometric analysis and decision support
• Develops your ability to evaluate published research, use relevant theory, and apply research methods and techniques to new situations
• Develops your skills in data collection and modelling using databases, such as Datastream and Thomson One, and statistical software such as STATA.

The MSc in Finance has been accepted into the CFA Institute University Recognition Program. This status is granted to institutions whose degree programmes incorporate at least 70% of the CFA Program Candidate Body of Knowledge (CBOK), which provide students with a solid grounding in the CBOK and positions them well to sit the exams to become CFA charterholders.

This qualification is eligible for a Postgraduate Loan available from Student Finance England.

Modules

To gain this qualification, you need 180 credits as follows:

90 credits from the following compulsory modules:

• Introduction to corporate finance (B858)
• Financial strategy: valuation, governance and ethics (B859)
• Research methods for finance (B860)

plus

30 credits from the following optional modules:

• Investment and portfolio management (B861)
• Derivatives and risk management (B862)

plus

a final 60-credit module:

• Dissertation (Finance) (B805)

The modules quoted in this description are currently available for study. However, as we review the curriculum on a regular basis, the exact selection may change over time.

Credit transfer

If you’ve successfully completed some relevant postgraduate study elsewhere, you might be able to count it towards this qualification, reducing the number of modules you need to study. You should apply for credit transfer as soon as possible, before you register for your first module. For more details and an application form, visit our Credit Transfer website.

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MSc in Human Resource Management

This qualification is suitable for those at the start of a career in HR or hoping to enter the HR profession and also line managers.

This MSc combines an in-depth understanding of human resource (HR) management with a broader exploration of its organisational and management context. Whether you’re at the start of your career in HR, aspiring to enter HR or an experienced professional, it will give you up-to-date knowledge of organisational theory and behaviour and the specialist skills essential to practitioners.

You will explore HR strategy both within organisations (including issues such as employee relations and employee engagement; learning and development, and employee resourcing and talent management) and in relation to the external environment – including globalisation and international forces, social and technological change and government policies and regulation.

Key features of the course

• Develops the skills essential for HR work such as: leading and working in teams, making decisions, managing financial information, communicating effectively and helping others to learn
• A strong emphasis on practice-based learning; you will be asked to evaluate research and theory and consider its relevance to practice
• Develops academic and research skills such as assessing information and critically evaluating its relevance, and prepares you for higher level study

The qualification provides a route to professional membership of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development. Students following this route are expected to be student members of CIPD throughout their studies and attend the Human resource management residential school.

This qualification is eligible for a Postgraduate Loan available from Student Finance England.

Modules

You should study the modules in the order shown. However if you wish to start in May, you can do so by taking Workplace learning with coaching and mentoring (B867) first as a standalone module. When you register for The human resource professional (B863) and meet the entry requirements for the qualification, B867 can be linked to the qualification.

To gain this qualification, you need 180 credits as follows:

60 credits from the following compulsory modules:

• The human resource professional (B863)
• Human resource management in context (B864)

plus

60 credits from this list:

• Managing research in the workplace (B865)
• Employment relations and employee engagement (B866)
• Workplace learning with coaching and mentoring (B867)

plus

a final 60 credits from the following compulsory module:

• Dissertation (HRM) (B804)

For CIPD recognition of this qualification:

The MSc in Human Resource Management is complemented by a three day residential school that provides an additional opportunity to practise and receive feedback on HR skills. The residential school is compulsory for those seeking CIPD membership and is optional for all other students.

• Human resource management residential school (BXR868)

The modules quoted in this description are currently available for study. However, as we review the curriculum on a regular basis, the exact selection may change over time.

Credit transfer

If you’ve successfully completed some relevant postgraduate study elsewhere, you might be able to count it towards this qualification, reducing the number of modules you need to study. You should apply for credit transfer as soon as possible, before you register for your first module. For more details and an application form, visit our Credit Transfer website.

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Master of Laws

This qualification is designed to consider the role and place of law in an increasingly globalised world, and is suitable for law and non-law graduates as well as lawyers wanting to develop their interests. It takes a critical legal approach to study, using different perspectives and case studies to illustrate, explore, compare and contextualise topical legal issues. You will explore the interaction of law, law making bodies, institutions and regulators in an international context, the role and function of law in an increasingly global society, and the role of states, international institutions and multi-national companies. You will also consider contemporary legal issues such as corporate social responsibility, trans-national crime, humanitarian aid and security.

Key features of the course

• Explores methods of reasoning and analysis in law, and evaluates the complexities inherent in law, regulation and legal study
• Develops a range of transferable skills, including advanced legal research, that are attractive to employers
• Concludes with an in-depth piece of independent research on a topic within your chosen specialist subject area.

If you are interested in becoming a lawyer (solicitor or barrister) you need to study an undergraduate Bachelor of Laws (LLB) (Hons).

This qualification is eligible for a Postgraduate Loan available from Student Finance England.

Modules

There is a choice of routes through the qualification. You can start your studies with either of the compulsory modules Exploring legal meaning (W820) or Exploring the boundaries of international law (W821). These modules provide core postgraduate skills in legal methodology and research and knowledge of international law and legal thinking. They include a comparative approach. Or you can start your studies with Business, human rights law and corporate social responsibilities (W822), or an optional module from list B. If you are claiming credit transfer from another postgraduate provider you may not need to study an optional module. Your final module to complete this masters degree will be The law dissertation (W800).

To gain this qualification you need 180 credits as follows:

60 credits of compulsory modules:

• Exploring legal meaning (W820)
• Exploring the boundaries of international law (W821)

Plus

30 credits of optional modules from list A:

List A

• Business, human rights law and corporate social responsibility (W822)

• Or the 30-credit module Continuing professional development in practice (UYA810)*.

*Please note that UYA810 is part of the Postgraduate Certificate in Advanced Professional Practice (Employment Law Advice) qualification only available to those working for ACAS. Therefore if you do not hold this qualification W822 is currently a compulsory module in Group A.

Plus

30 credits from the optional modules in list B:

List B
• Capacities for managing development (T878)
• Conflict and development (T879)
• Continuing professional development in practice (U810)
• Development: context and practice (T877)
• Environmental monitoring and protection (T868)
• Institutional development (TU872)
• Making environmental decisions (T891)


Plus

60 credits from the following compulsory module:

• The law dissertation (W800)

The modules quoted in this description are currently available for study. However, as we review the curriculum on a regular basis, the exact selection may change over time.

Credit transfer

If you’ve successfully completed some relevant postgraduate study elsewhere, you might be able to count it towards this qualification, reducing the number of modules you need to study. You should apply for credit transfer as soon as possible, before you register for your first module. For more details and an application form, visit our Credit Transfer website.

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MBA (Technology Management)

If you’re looking for an MBA with a focus on technology, this is the qualification for you. It is applicable to technology management and technological innovation in a wide variety of contexts and sectors, including: IT/IS, telecommunications, computing, engineering, manufacturing, transport and logistics, retailing, energy production and supply, defence and security, management and administration, and any form of services, including health, welfare and leisure. You will focus on strategic analysis and intellectual stimulation whilst gaining interdisciplinary skills, and independent judgement – exploring the processes that underpin technological innovation and the challenges of technology from a strategic perspective, with your learning firmly rooted in management practice throughout.

Key features of the course

• Practice-based learning brings your MBA into life at your workplace
• Flexible options enable you to adjust the curriculum to suit your needs
• Strong international emphasis essential for developing leaders in a global marketplace
• Join an influential network of over 25,000 alumni in 100 countries when you graduate

This qualification is eligible for a Postgraduate Loan available from Student Finance England.

This MBA qualification is in two stages. You must successfully complete Stage 1 before moving on to Stage 2.

To gain this qualification, you need 180 credits as follows:

Stage 1

A 60-credit compulsory module from the following:

• MBA stage 1: management: perspectives and practice (B716)
• MBA stage 1: management: perspectives and practice (fast-track)* (BXFT716)

*This version is for the accelerated study route and should only be selected if you intend to complete your MBA in two years.

Stage 2

60 credits from the following optional modules:

• Managing technological innovation (T848)
• Strategic capabilities for technological innovation (T849)

Plus

15 credits from this compulsory module:

• Corporate finance (BB831)

Plus

15 credits from the following optional modules:

• Entrepreneurship: experience and perspective (BB846)
• Leadership and management in intercultural contexts (BB848)
• Management beyond the mainstream (BB847)
• Managing financial risk (BB841)
• Managing in the digital economy (BXM871)
• Marketing in the 21st century (BB844)
• Strategic human resource management (BB845)
• Supply chain management (BB849)
• Sustainable creative management (BB842)
• Capacities for managing development (T878)
• Development: context and practice (T877)
• Managing for sustainability (T867)
• Managing systemic change: inquiry, action and interaction (TU812)
• Problem solving and improvement: quality and other approaches (T889)
• Project management (M815)
• Thinking strategically: systems tools for managing change (TU811)

Plus

30 credits from this compulsory module:

• Making a difference: the management initiative (B839)

The modules quoted in this description are currently available for study. However, as we review the curriculum on a regular basis, the exact selection may change over time.

Credit transfer

If you’ve successfully completed some relevant postgraduate study elsewhere, you might be able to count it towards this qualification, reducing the number of modules you need to study. You should apply for credit transfer as soon as possible, before you register for your first module. For more details and an application form, visit our Credit Transfer website.

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