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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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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Adult education has been recognised in Europe as a critical element in addressing challenges pertaining to employment, research and innovation, climate change and energy, education and combatting poverty. A concern about social inequality and a belief that adult educators can contribute to social change based on smart, sustainable and inclusive growth is the driving force behind the creation of the programme.

Why this programme

• This programme has been designed to maximise the learning outcomes through both student and staff mobility and is innovative in the interconnectedness of the curriculum.
• Its unique focus brings together the recognised strengths of all partners into a relevant degree which engages with and responds to key issues of our time, such as social inequality, migration and intercultural cooperation and collaboration.
• A distinctive feature of this programme is the connection between theory and practice, gained through focused placements and mobility periods between the partner universities.
• The programme aims to deliver a curriculum that enables people to work with adults effectively and competently in changing socially diverse contexts.
• The Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Degree is awarded by a consortium comprising the University of Glasgow, the University of Malta, Tallinn University and the Open University of Cyprus.
• An array of academic conferences, workshops and other socio-cultural events involving all consortium partners will help to make your experience a truly rewarding one in terms of making lasting friendships and equipping you for a future professional career.

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.

The programme has been designed so that you 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 context 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 and 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.

Summer mobility (optional)

• 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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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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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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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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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 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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If you have an interest in all aspects of science; but in particular the physical sciences associated with forces, energy, electrical effects and enjoy investigating this in a practical setting, then our physics course will suit you.

Our Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in Secondary Education provides a high standard of training for those preparing to take up a teaching post in the secondary school sector. The course complies with the statutory guidance from the National College for Teaching and Leadership for Initial Teacher Training courses.

This course looks at the key ideas which underpin the teaching of science in schools today and the way children's understanding of concepts develops. As a trainee you will learn how to teach physics to pupils in the 11-16 age range within the secondary age phase, with additional primary and post-16 enhancements. You will learn how to develop skills, knowledge and understanding for teaching physics through a combination of university-led and school-led training.

This course is designed to meet the NCTL Teaching Standards which assesses all trainees working towards Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).

This postgraduate qualification offers 60 Masters-level credits that can be used towards our Masters degrees in the field of education.

This Physics route sits within an exciting range of Secondary Education subjects we offer within the Institute of Education.

SECONDARY EDUCATION Frequently Asked Questions

This is NOT an appropriate training course for applicants who wish to teach in Primary schools or Post Compulsory Education establishments.

What happens on the course?

Over the one year course, you will undertake learning at University and other educational settings. You will spend 120 days divided between at least two different school placements across the 11-16 age range within the Secondary age phase.

Your University tutor team is available to assist you throughout your training, supporting development of reflection. Every effort is made to ensure that high-quality school placements are provided to you, facilitating learning through observing, co-teaching and being observed by experienced teachers in the classroom.

All course modules provide examples of good practice in pedagogy which you will reflect upon as you develop your own teaching style - you will be expected to actively participate in your own learning and development.

Teaching on the course comprises a variety of methodologies that will prepare you for life in the classroom including teacher-led discussions, pupil-led exploration, peer-group discovery, problem based learning, e-learning and the provision of individual targets.

You will be assessed in a variety of ways including written assignments; classroom based investigation and other school-based activities, and appraisal of practical teaching skills.

Typical activities may include:

• Observation of teaching, before undertaking ‘sheltered’ teaching activities, for example teaching parts of lessons or small groups of pupils within a class
• Progression to teaching single or short sequences of lessons
• Further development through reflection on planned classroom activities
• Development of teaching skills as you move to sustained sequences of lessons
• Research that takes place in both University and school settings on selected aspects of your practice.

PGCE: Programme Structure

The PGCE course takes place over 180 days, and 120 of those days are spent in a school. You will have one school attachment during the autumn term and another (in a different school) in the spring/summer terms.

One of our strengths is that we have a vast network of high quality partnership schools in which to place you for the extended school placements. We ensure that you receive high quality school-based training by selecting schools with highly trained mentors and a proven track record of excellent trainee outcomes. We will also take other factors into consideration when placing you, such as your geographical location and transportation, to provide you with the best possible experience in a convenient and suitable setting.

The University-led elements of the course take place at our Walsall Campus. Our PGCE starts in early September and ends in June, and it is an intensive academic and professional training course that effectively prepares you for your first teaching post and beyond.

The course comprises of a two day professional placement in mixed subject groups, two extended school placements in your subject specialism and two periods of University-based teaching – September to October and January to February. The programme also includes a short Primary school placement and additional opportunities for a range of enhancements to your course; for example, experience of teaching pupils with special educational needs, teaching pupils at post-16 level or teaching pupils for whom English is an additional language.

What our students think

Profile of a successful student

Russell completed his PGCE in secondary science last year at University of Wolverhampton, following a number of years working as an avionic technician working on aircraft with the RAF. He had always enjoyed all aspects right from his time at school largely due to the impact of a motivational physics teacher. He completed a part time degree with the Open University following on from a BTEC in Engineering. After a few visits to a secondary school he realised that following the example of the teachers that had inspired him was the way to feel true fulfilment in his career. The PGCE motivated him immediately, with time to discuss his needs and development while given the independence to feel a proper teacher. He learned a lot from the contrasting schools available to him during his PGCE and the committed colleagues who willingly offered advice and guidance during the programme.

Russell easily secured a post teaching in a school close to his home well before the end of the programme. He is now enjoying the challenge of motivating the next generation of scientists.

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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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