international students. faculty of business, education and law 2015 guide

FACULTY OF BUSINESS, EDUCATION AND LAW

2 International 2015 Guide

CONTENTSFACULTY OF BUSINESS, EDUCATION AND LAW 4

BUSINESS SCHOOL 6

UNDERGRADUATE COURSES 8POSTGRADUATE COURSES 9

SCHOOL OF EDUCATION 16


LAW SCHOOL 20


3To find out more visit www.staffs.ac.uk/international

Welcome to the Faculty of Business, Education and Law 2015 guide for international students.

We’re home to three Schools – the Business School, the School of Education and the Law School – and we’ve gained an international reputation for delivering postgraduate courses that are industry-led, tailored to your interests and relevant today.

We work closely with our industry partners – in the UK and overseas – to shape the content of our courses, so our graduates can be confident that they’ll leave us with the skills and experience that employers want.

With specialist facilities, expert teaching, big name partners and practical work opportunities, our Schools are committed to helping you develop the entrepreneurial, enterprise and employability skills you need for a successful career – anywhere in the world.

Whether you are hoping to study Accounting and Finance, Education or International Sports Law, we will support you from day one. Study with us and gain much more than an academic qualification – you’ll gain practical skills and you will be able to explore the rest of the UK from your base in the heart of the country in your free time.

I hope you’ll find the perfect postgraduate course at Staffordshire University and I look forward to welcoming you to the Faculty of Business, Education and Law.

PROFESSOR SUSAN FOREMANDean

FROM DEAN OF FACULTY


FACULTY OF BUSINESS, EDUCATIONAND LAWAs its name suggests, the Faculty is home to our Business School, School of Education and Law School.

“We’re delighted that our continued investment in our research capabilities has been recognised as being internationally signifi cant through the Research Excellence Framework and we plan to build on this. Our students benefi t from being taught by great academics who are working at the forefront of their fi eld and whose research work feeds into our curriculum.”

Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Allan Howells


Our Business School has built its reputation by constantly adapting to the fast-paced business environment, to ensure its courses reflect best practice and promote enterprise and employability. Our School of Education has a reputation for developing teaching assistants, teachers and educational professionals to the very highest standards. Our Law School is one of the leading providers of legal education in the UK.

Well known for our extensive connections, we believe passionately in introducing our students to top industry professionals. To keep our lectures fascinating and relevant, among our tutors you will find experienced business people, legal professionals, head teachers and more.

Our research interests include education policy and practice; sustainability in business, change management, economic development in Central and Eastern Europe, industrial law, international sports law, and family law and policy.

Business SchoolThe Business School has been providing high-calibre Business, Management, Accounting, Tourism and Events education for over 30 years. The School has links with national and international businesses, and offers globally recognised qualifications. It has strong links with professional bodies including the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM), the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) and the Tourism Management Institute (TMI).

School of EducationThe School of Education is one of the UK’s top providers of Initial Teacher Training. As a mark of the quality of its courses, the School has been rated ‘Outstanding’ in every Ofsted teacher training inspection since 2000. Its highly regarded BA(Hons) Early Childhood Studies and BA(Hons) Education provide perfect pathways to becoming a teacher, while Foundation degree options offer a more work-based approach to study.

Law SchoolRecognised by the Solicitors Regulation Authority and the Bar Standards Board, all the undergraduate Law degrees offered by our Law School are qualifying. That means graduates are exempt from the academic stages of becoming a solicitor. The School has solid links with leading legal practices. To make studying as realistic as possible, teaching facilities include a mock courtroom, legal practice rooms and an outstanding legal library.

We’re also home to two research centres:

• The Centre for Applied Business Research Provides a wide range of applied business research expertise and

knowledge transfer to private and public sector clients.

• The Institute for Education Policy Research Works to enhance the reputation of Staffordshire University in education

research, policy and practice.


BUSINESS SCHOOLWe’re a full service international business school with a proud heritage. We’ve been providing high calibre business, management, accounting, tourism and events education for over thirty years. We’ll encourage you to be creative in your thinking, international in your outlook, and innovative and entrepreneurial in your actions.

Specialist facilitiesWe have full facilities at Stoke-on-Trent campus. Our Student Union has been voted as one of the best in the country and our campus accommodation is only a few minutes walk from the teaching rooms. Extensive computer and library resources are also available on site, with subject specialist advisors and technical help available.

Work-ready, world-readyStudy with us and you’ll become a world-ready professional, with the knowledge, attributes and expertise that employers look for. Work experience will help to set you apart when it comes to applying for jobs – and our dedicated placements team can help you find the perfect placement. In addition, Staffordshire Bright Futures – our career- focused student society – enables you to network with like-minded students and top graduate employers.

Expert teachingOur lecturers are highly experienced business professionals. Many of them guide and advise companies across numerous different sectors. In the National Student Survey, 100% of our accounting students said that staff are enthusiastic about what they teach. Many of


our courses have been accredited by and designed with the help of professional bodies, so you can be sure that they meet the standards set by organisations such as the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM), the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), and the Tourism Management Institute (TMI).

Big names Our close links with business ensure that our staff are up-to-date with the latest developments, that our courses are relevant and that we focus on what you’ll need to achieve your goals. Everything we teach you relates not only to UK business, but also to the global business environment. That’s how our courses will equip you for a career in almost any country you choose. We work with businesses all over the world, including: • Bentley• Steelite International• Tesco• Toyota

MEET THE LECTURERS

Mr Paul WilliamsHead of School: Business

Paul Williams joined Staffordshire University in 2001 as a Senior Lecturer in Marketing and Tourism. Since then, he’s worked as Principal Lecturer and Senior Course Manager for undergraduate programmes, Programme Area Manager for Business and Management and – more recently – Head of Programmes and the Portfolio. As well as undertaking a range of teaching, supervising and assessment of marketing and tourism modules, Paul has been actively involved in course management, curriculum development and associated quality management and enhancement activities within the Business School and across the University.

Mrs Alison MaguireAcademic Group Leader: Financial and Operational Performance

Alison Maguire started her career as an accountant, gaining qualifications through the Association of Accounting Technicians and the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants. In 2000, she began lecturing on business and professional accountancy courses within further and higher education institutions, later obtaining the Certificate in Further and Adult Education and then an MBA (Education). She joined Staffordshire University in 2004 as Lecturer in Accounting. During her time with the Business School, Alison has undertaken teaching at all levels, as well as completing research projects. In her current role, she is responsible for the co-ordination, leadership, management and development of staff within the Financial and Operational Performance Academic Group.

Mr Peter ConsidineAcademic Group Leader: Strategy, Economics and International Business

Peter Considine spent over 20 years in industry and joined academia in 2001 and has been responsible for course development, course leadership, module leadership and delivery, and dissertation supervision. He spent four years as University External for a partner institute in Malaysia (APITT) and two years as an International Programme Advisor (IPA) for a partner institute in China (STMC). In 2007, Peter was awarded a Learning and Teaching Fellowship and as part of this achievement, introduced computer based simulation learning and assessments into the curriculum on both Strategic and International Strategic Management. Peter’s current role includes line management, budgetary responsibilities and academic discipline development in his area.

BUSINESS SCHOOLUNDERGRADUATE COURSESThe courses listed below are all on campus and full-time, for international students who would like to gain an undergraduate award.

International students would apply for the 3 year non-sandwich course and then, if they gained a placement, they could extend their visa to 4 years.

To find out more, visit www.staffs.co.uk/international

Accounting and Finance

Accounting and Business BA(Hons)Accounting and Finance BA(Hons)Accounting and Finance (Two-year Fast-track) BA(Hons)

Business Management

Business Management BA(Hons)Business Management (Two-year Fast-track) BA(Hons)International Business Management BA(Hons)

Business, Management and Enterprise

Business Management and Enterprise BA(Hons)Business Management and Enterprise (Fast-track) BA(Hons)

Human Resource Management

Business and Human Resource Management BA(Hons)

Marketing

Business and Marketing Management BA(Hons)

Tourism and Events Management

Tourism Management (Two-year Fast-track) BA(Hons)Events Management BA(Hons) Events Management (Two-year Fast-track) BA(Hons)



Duration: 1 year full-time 2 years full-time +placement

Course outline: On the MBA (Finance), you’ll focus on developing your career in the financial sphere, especially in the financial operation of multinational corporations in an environment of open and integrated financial markets. You’ll cover the differences between foreign and domestic investment, financing international projects, sourcing of subsidiary finance and management of country risk. This is harmonised with the study of international finance risk appraisal and management techniques such as hedging and option pricing. You’ll experience a challenging and stimulating intensive course in management – with a financial perspective – to enhance your personal and career development. To facilitate this you’ll use, share and reflect upon your experiences alongside other students in your learning team.

Module overview:Teaching block 1: • The Human Capital Dimension• Marketing Innovations• Risk and Financial Analysis• Business Management Research

Teaching block 2:• Global Strategic Management• International Finance• Applied Corporate Finance and Evaluation

These are followed by the Dissertation that has a strategic finance focus.

Graduate destinations:

After completing this course, students work in positions in many aspects of the financial world. Many work as financial analysts and financial consultants in international financial institutions, stock markets, foreign exchange markets and consultancy companies. Professional qualifications to follow this course include Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) and Association of Chartered and Certified Accountants (ACCA).

Masters in Business Administration MBA (Finance)

Duration: 1 year full-time

Course outline: Europe, USA and many other parts of the world have been in deep recession since 2008. This has been largely caused by the collapse of the conventional banking and finance model operated in most parts of the world.

The Islamic finance and banking industry has been growing at annual rates of 15-20% over the last decade and is expected to continue in the foreseeable future. Islamic finance and banking has demonstrated itself to be a serious contender to replace much of the conventional banking and finance industry around the world. At the end of 2011, the global Islamic finance services industry was valued at USD 1.4 trillion. The supply of qualified professionals to take up careers in this industry falls way short of demand.

The success of the Islamic finance is mainly due to a sound theoretical foundation based on the following principles:• Rigorous ethical principles • Interest-free banking • A system based on real asset and real business

transactions – NOT on high speculation and high risk activities.

The MSc Islamic Finance programme provides an opportunity to study the success of Islamic finance to evaluate its principles and understand its unique approach to finance for today’s businesses and society.

Module overview:• Financial Reporting and Analysis• Management Control and Audit • Advanced Corporate Finance • Research Methods• Islamic Banking & Takaful: Products and Services• Islamic Capital Markets & Investments • Islamic Commercial Law (Shari’ah) • Accounting for Islamic Financial Institutions • Investment Game• Dissertation

BUSINESS SCHOOLPOSTGRADUATE COURSES

Islamic Finance and Accounting MSc



Course outline: The MSc in International Accounting and Financial Management is based on three interlocking principles of academic rigour, professional relevance and a strong commitment to employability. Throughout the programme the emphasis is on preparing students for a career in business where accounting and finance knowledge and skills form key components. Students will study financial reporting, governance, risk and ethics, business analysis, international corporate reporting and critically evaluate contemporary issues associated with accounting. The course provides the opportunity for its students to develop both technical and critical evaluation skills and the ability to apply decision making in complex situations. It will equip students with up-to-date knowledge of this fast-changing field, and help to develop analytical and problem-solving skills. The MSc in International Accounting and Financial Management will significantly enhance your employability and develop your career whether it be in practice, in the public sector, in financial services, industry or commerce.

In addition to achieving an MSc, the course modules and structure have been designed with the aim of contributing substantially to the students’ chances of achieving success at ACCA professional level examinations. Therefore, while the programme is academically rigorous it is also very practically focused.

Module overview:• Financial Reporting and Analysis• Management Control and Internal Audit• Advanced Corporate Finance• Business Management Research• Business Analysis• International Corporate Reporting• Governance, Risk and Ethics• Business Valuation and Risk Management• Investment Game• Dissertation

International Accounting and Financial Management MSc



Course outline:The course is ideal if you have a degree in accounting, finance or business management. The first four modules form the base of your studies and provide a solid grounding in the key aspects of accounting and finance. You’ll then study traditional and contemporary theoretical aspects of accounting and finance. The course includes a number of distinctive modules – Accounting Theory addresses the underling principles that lead to accounting conventions; Portfolio looks at the construction of an investment portfolio and the research based dissertation allows you to further your knowledge in an area of interest that supports your career ambitions.

Module overview:• Financial Reporting and Analysis • Management Control and Internal Audit • Advanced Corporate Finance • Business Research Methods• Accounting Theory• Governance, Risk and Ethics

Accounting and Finance MSc



Course outline:This globally recognised MBA course attracts a range of graduate calibre applicants from a variety of commercial, industrial and public sector organisations – from many different countries. Two features distinguish our courses from those of other universities: our vocational relevance and our internationalism. You’ll experience a challenging and stimulating intensive course in management – with an international perspective – to enhance your personal and career development. To facilitate this, you’ll use, share and reflect upon your experiences alongside other students in your learning team.

Module overview:

Teaching block 1:• The Human Capital Dimension• Marketing Innovations• Risk and Financial Analysis• Business Management Research

Teaching block 2:• Change Leadership• Global Strategic Management• Optional module.

You’ll also develop leadership, communication, teamwork and decision-making skills during a one-week residential trip.


The MBA provides exposure to the diverse ideas necessary for success in any public or business organisation, so successful students enjoy dynamic and rewarding careers in many industries and countries. Some have followed a new career direction and many have used their MBA to gain a competitive advantage in their current field. Others have set up their own businesses.

Masters in Business Administration MBA



Course outline:The MBA (International) is for those students who wish to develop their strengths and career opportunities in an international context. Consequently, to provide exposure to international business, this award includes a mandatory one-week overseas residential (study trip), in addition to the one week UK residential (off-campus trip). The cost associated with these two study trips are covered by the course fees. In recent years, the overseas residential has been to Prague, Czech Republic, to explore the turbulent business environment with the full spectrum of global business. You will experience a challenging and stimulating intensive course in strategic management, with an international perspective, to enhance your personal and career development. To facilitate this you will use, share and reflect upon your experiences alongside others in your Learning Team. You will be allocated to your multi-cultural ‘Learning Team’ during induction. A few Learning Teams are combined to form tutorial groups, with each having their own personal tutor.

Module overview:

Teaching block 1:• The Human Capital Dimension• Marketing Innovations• Risk and Financial Analysis

Teaching block 2:• Global Strategic Management• International consultancy in action (the overseas

study trip)• International option, e.g. International Marketing,

International Finance

You’ll also develop leadership, communication, teamwork and decision-making skills during a one-week UK residential trip.

Graduate destinations:Business firms are increasingly seeking managerial talent with the skills to assess global trends and force global strategies. Therefore, holders of an MBA (International) often follow career posts such as International Business Managers in the full range of organisations and industries. This award provides career enhancement for graduates seeking new employment opportunities in the global economy.

Masters in Business Administration International MBA


Duration: 13 months full-time

Course outline: This is a unique course in the UK higher education sector. It is based on a special agreement signed by a consortium of nine global universities and supported by the European Commission’s Socrates Programme as well as Erasmus MUNDUS. The course covers analytical and research skills in economics, particularly skills relevant to business analysis, and the opportunity to apply these skills to specialist areas of international trade and European integration.

Students on the course are from all nine partner universities and the teaching is rotated between all partners. Upon completion of teaching block 2, students return to their home universities for dissertation work. All modules are taught in English.

Partner universities in addition to Staffordshire University are:• Universiteit Antwerpen, Belgium• Università degli Studi di Bari ‘Aldo Moro’, Italy• Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium• Universidad de Cantabria, Spain• Université Lille 1, Sciences et Technologies, France• Vysoká škola ekonomická v Praze, Czech Republic • Xiamen University, P.R. China• Universidade de Brasília, Brazil

Module overview:Term 1:• Advanced Microeconomics • Advanced Macroeconomics • Applied Econometrics • Optional skills modules, such as Mathematics for Economists or Foreign Language Term 2:• Economics of European Integration • Open Economy Macroeconomics • Economics of Globalisation • Advanced subjects optional course: Special Topics in Applied Econometrics• Optional skills courses, such as Foreign Language or Academic Writing

Term 3: • International Trade: Theory and Policy • Advanced subjects optional courses, such as Special Topics in International Finance, Special Topics in International Trade and/or Economics of Regulation • Optional skills course, such as Foreign Language • Dissertation

Graduate destinations:This bespoke course is suitable for graduates who have aspirations for careers in European or international organisations. Many of our postgraduate students are developing high ranking careers in government, international organisations, business and universities. Some graduates are now employed in the National Statistical Office in Cyprus, with Deutsche Bank and IBM and have completed internships with the EU Commission. Many have also gone on to register for PhDs.

Economics of Globalisation and European Integration MA




Duration: 1 year full-time (2 semesters of taught modules + dissertation)

Course outline:The specific focus of the MSc Economics for Business Analysis is the analysis of business from the viewpoint of the discipline of economics. In particular, economics analysis is applied to fundamental issues related to the behaviour and performance of modern business organisations. In the process of studying the theoretical concepts and empirical methods necessary for research activity in this area, students also appreciate the research process applicable to most areas of economics.

Module overview:• Macroeconomic Analysis • Economic Analysis of the Firm 1 • Economic Analysis of the Firm 2• Personnel Economics• Econometrics 1 • Econometrics 2 • Business Finance• Financial Reporting Analysis • Dissertation

Economics for Business Analysis MSc

Duration: 18–72 months, depending on mode of study. Full-time and part-time study options available. Course outline: We offer MPhil and PhD courses in Business and Management and Economics. We currently have around 40 students who study full-time, part-time or by blended learning. These students share and contribute to a vibrant research community that operates at the cutting edge of knowledge. There are Open Society Foundation Scholarships available on this course for qualifying students.

The regulations at Staffordshire University award a PhD to candidates who have ‘critically investigated an approved topic resulting in an independent and original contribution to knowledge and demonstrated an understanding of research methods appropriate to the chosen field, (and) presented and defended a thesis by oral examination… to the satisfaction of examiners.’

In your application, we’ll want to know the area of academic knowledge you want to place your PhD study. We’ll assess whether we can provide supervisors who have the knowledge of your academic area. In order to succeed, you’ll need to demonstrate capability in using research methods – we insist that all research students enrol on a University-wide research method course.

Routes:• MPhil/PhD is the most common route for Economics

and Business and Management students. The MPhil stage usually includes a critical review of existing academic literature on the subject and often a pilot research study. This can then be written up (c 30,000 words) and successful students are awarded an MPhil. Alternatively, if you decide to progress to the PhD you can do so by a short report (c5,000 words) that acts as a summary of the work done so far and a plan for the PhD itself.

• Direct PhD is more suitable if you already have a Masters degree in your intended area. For example, an MSc in Economics for a PhD in Economics. MBAs and other generalist business Masters qualifications do not fall into this category – so you’ll need to take another route (e.g. MPhil/PhD) if this applies to you.

Business MPhil/PhD Business & Management MPhil/PhD Business & Management MPhil/PhD (Blended Learning)

Research and Doctoral Studies


BUSINESS SCHOOLPOSTGRADUATE COURSESBUSINESS SCHOOLPOSTGRADUATE COURSES

Duration: Typically 4 years

Course outline: The world of business and commerce demands highly competent professionals – individuals who are equipped with the abilities to make key decisions and face strategic challenges head on. If you want to be able to support your judgements with evidence-based data and bring measurable change to your organisation, the Doctorate in Business Administration is ideal.

This course (equivalent to the PhD) is the highest qualification achievable in Higher Education. It’s a natural choice if you’re a practising manager or senior professional practitioner who wants to pursue your academic, personal and career development beyond Masters Level through a rigorous and challenging programme of study and research.

The DBA is a broad and flexible research based programme incorporating six structured facilitated modules, a reflective-practice portfolio and a substantial research thesis. It’s a doctoral research degree that investigates real businesses and managerial issues via the critical review and systematic application of appropriate theories and research to professional practice.

As well as having an applied research perspective, this course differs from a traditional PhD in that it includes a substantial knowledge element, as well as the development of a research thesis. The informed element of the DBA focuses on both philosophy and methods of advanced research. It places a particular emphasis on the participative and action-oriented processes relevant to applied doctoral study of this nature.

Programme study:• Either three blocks of four days, or two blocks of six

days, during years one and two• Research thesis supervision years three and four• Six taught and facilitated modules for the first two

years• Reflective management portfolio developed over the

life of the programme• Thesis submission at the end of year four

Course structure: • Years one and two: Developing critical knowledge

and contextualised understanding of contemporary issues and challenges to management, and principles of research design. Advancing contemporary issues and challenges to management, and research methods and analyses. Research design, consisting of a literature review that reflects your developing line-of-inquiry, and the completion of the research proposal. You’ll also develop the first stage reflective practice-into-theory portfolio.

• Years three and four: The continued development of a reflective practice-into-theory portfolio, and the research and development of an extended academic project (thesis).

Doctorate in Business Administration

Research and Doctoral Studies


SCHOOL OF EDUCATIONWe have a reputation for developing teaching assistants, teachers and educational professionals to the very highest standards. As a mark of the quality of our courses, Ofsted has rated us Outstanding in every teacher training inspection since 2000. We regularly engage with schools, colleges, Local Authorities, training organisations, childcare providers, public services and NGOs to continually review the content of our courses, making sure they stay relevant and up-to-date.

Expert teachingBy studying with us, you’ll benefit from the expertise of a team that genuinely understands the needs of the education sector. Our staff are at the cutting edge of the discipline, with extensive knowledge gained in a variety of education settings. They know the type of job roles available and the can help you gain the skills you need to secure them.

Our links with schools across the UK help you to gain a wide range of experiences – and all our programmes blend study with work or placements. By developing your practical skills through real-life learning and teaching scenarios, we’ll help you to become an inspiring educator. You’ll also learn from leading practitioners from the world of education through workshops and conferences.

Highly acclaimedWe’re recognised as the top university in England for the overall quality of training* (The Good Teacher Training Guide 2013). And Ofsted has graded us ‘Outstanding’ again, which now spans over four consecutive inspections.

Industry connections We have excellent relationships with hundreds of educational providers – relationships that can often lead to exciting career opportunities. We’re also home to the Institute for Education Policy Research – a specialist centre renowned for the high calibre of its work. You’ll get to experience research as you develop into a reflective, research-informed educator.

To give you first-hand experience of the skills you’ll need for a career in education, many of our courses have work or a work placement at their heart. We have excellent relationships with hundreds of educational providers, including early years settings, schools, colleges, NGOs, private training organisations, local authorities, local councils, the prison service and the armed forces – as well as museums, zoos and the leisure industry. In short, we can provide a wealth of learning opportunities covering the whole age range and across the UK.

*PGCE Initial Teacher Training - national survey of NQT perceptions of the quality

of their course.

“The rewards are just immense”J Brown, BA(Hons) Early Childhood Studies


MEET THE LECTURERSProfessor Michelle LoweHead of School: Education

Michelle Lowe has over 20 years’ experience in education and has worked across all sectors. With extensive experience of senior leadership and management, her teaching subject specialism is the development of pupil literacy and, consequently, she has substantive experience of special educational needs and the needs of learners for whom English is an additional language. Michelle has worked in a Local Authority as an Advisor supporting school improvement as well as in Further Education. She has extensive experience of developing University provision as well as external inspection. Michelle acts as an External Examiner and a peer reviewer for several Education journals.

Dr Cheryl BoltonAcademic Group Leader: Lifelong and International Learning

Cheryl Bolton worked for several years in the manufacturing industry, holding various management roles in quality and operations before moving into teaching. She started her teaching career working in a Further Education college teaching business and professional courses before becoming involved in teacher training. Michelle now specialises in education for the lifelong learning sector and developed the initial teacher training courses for at Staffordshire University. Her key responsibilities are as Course Leader for the BA (Hons) Education in the Lifelong Learning Sector and as the Education Group Leader for Education Enterprise.

Mr Jim PughAcademic Group Leader: Education, Human Development and Society

Jim Pugh began his teaching career working within the primary school sector, specialising in mathematics. He moved into lecturing within the Teacher Education Department at Stoke-on-Trent College, representing the department on the academic board and as an ILT champion. Within this post, he was appointed as an Advanced Skills Teacher. Jim joined Staffordshire University in early 2006 as a senior course tutor for the off-campus Foundation Degree for Teaching Assistants. He now leads the BA (hons) Education course and is an course tutor for educational masters degrees. In 2010, Jim became the Business School’s first Student Experience Manager, taking up the position as a Principal Lecturer.

SCHOOL OF EDUCATIONUNDERGRADUATE COURSESThe courses listed below are all on campus and full-time, for international students who would like to gain an undergraduate award.



Early Childhood Studies BA(Hons)

Education BA(Hons)



SCHOOL OF EDUCATIONPOSTGRADUATE COURSES

Duration: 3–4 years full-time 5–6 years part-time (blended learning)

Prerequisites:

Masters in Education or another social science; IELTS grade 7 or TOEFL grade 95.

Staffordshire University offers a PhD in Education. We have a vibrant research community in Education, and PhD students have access to research seminars in the Faculty and across the University. Students are supervised by research-active academics (staffs.ac.uk/research/iepr/people) who are engaged in research on a wide range of educational issues, and who present their research at international conferences, and publish it in highly regarded journals (staffs.ac.uk/research/iepr/publications). All students work with a supervisory team comprising an experienced principal supervisor and a second supervisor.

PhD students are required to conduct empirical research and critically investigate an area of Education to make an original contribution to knowledge. The PhD is examined by an 80,000 words thesis and a viva voce.

The PhD in Education is offered as a full-time programme and as a part-time blended learning programme. Unless the candidates already hold an MPhil, they are initially registered as MPhil students. Subject to satisfactory progress, they transfer to PhD status at the end of their first year (if full-time) or at the end of their second year (if part-time blended learning).

Full-time mode:

Students undertaking the PhD in Education full-time usually spend 3-4 years on the programme. They are expected to be on campus in term time during this period. However, they may go back to their home country for fieldwork for 6-12 months, and return to the UK after data collection.

Part-time blended learning mode:

This route allows the students to study in their home country for 11 months every year and visit the UK for 1 month in the year. When they are in their home country, they are supervised through Skype, email, and/or tele-meetings. When they are in the UK, they have regular face-to-face meetings with their supervisory team. In addition, one of their supervisors visits the student in their home country for 1 week during the year to have further face-to-face interaction. Part-time blended learning students usually complete their PhD in 5-6 years.

Education (International) (PhD)

Improving your English and preparing to study in the UK Our English Language Specialist Support Centre offers a wide range of courses to improve your English and boost your confidence when communicating.

Courses include:

Intensive English Support Programmes

Specialist courses for students who need to improve their English language to IELTS 6.0 – the level required to study a degree course with us.

English Language Modules

Subject-specific English language, academic skills lessons and one-to-one tutorials, designed to take place alongside your course.

International Foundation Programme

A one-year full-time programme for students who wish to prepare themselves for study on a Staffordshire University undergraduate award.

Business Pre-Masters Awards

University Foundation Diploma in Business English

University Learning Award in Business and English


LAW SCHOOL

The Law School is located in its own well-equipped building, close to a suite of modern lecture theatres. The building is designed around its dedicated law library and contains mock courtrooms with video facilities, legal practice offices and study rooms for small groups. Whether you’re considering a legal career or using Law to work in business and commerce or the criminal justice sector, by studying with us you’ll graduate with the skills you need for a promising career.

Specialist facilities

We have excellent facilities in dedicated accommodation within the Law School building and adjacent to the Law Library. Our £3 million Law School exemplifies our commitment and approach to legal education and support. The spacious building – complete with exciting design and attractive setting – includes a mock courtroom, staff rooms, study areas and extensive Information Technology provision.

Expert teaching

You’ll be taught by friendly and helpful legal professionals – including solicitors and barristers. There’s even a local magistrate on our team. Several members of our teaching team have been awarded University Learning and Teaching Fellowships in recognition of providing consistently high levels of teaching and support. Their combined expertise provides a real insight into the legal profession – the sort of insight you can’t gain from textbooks.


Big names

The number of our 2011 law graduates in further employment of further study within six months was 15% higher than the national average.* We have strong links with leading legal practices in Staffordshire, Derbyshire, Birmingham, Manchester and Cheshire – to make sure you learn from the very best. As well providing outstanding work placements, these links can often lead to exciting career opportunities.

*From the Destination of Leavers (DLHE) Survey 2010/11

Law careers

We’ll give you hands-on careers advice tailored to your individual needs. We run a programme of events and advice clinics to help you maximise your chances of securing a training contract. As well as working with the central university careers centre, we recognise the need for advice from solicitors in practice and graduate recruiters. We have a guest speaker programme featuring trainees as well as recruiters from a variety of firms, so you can gain an insight into the life of a trainee in practice. We also run careers workshops and large group sessions to help you recognise the skills you have and how you can make them appeal to employers.

MEET THE LECTURERSRuby HammerAcademic Group Leader: Business and Commercial Law

Ruby Hammer is a Senior Lecturer within the Faculty of Business, Education and Law where she teaches and researches within the fields of Tort Law and Environmental Law. She is the Law School’s undergraduate careers and employability co-ordinator as well as an employability ‘champion’ on the Staffordshire Graduate Employability Programme. She co-authors Routledge’s Business Law textbook as well as participating in EU funded research projects relating to the environment and sustainability.

Ruby’s fellowship was awarded in 2012 and focuses on education for sustainable development aiming to create a synergy between environmental research, sustainability and the Staffordshire Graduate Employability Programme. She is particularly interested in the role of universities in contributing towards the transition to a low carbon economy.

Kris LinesAssociate Professor: Sports Law

Kris lines is a Senior Lecturer in Business, Education and Law and is Director of the Centre for International Sports Law (CISL). Coordinating all aspects of sports law at the University, he teaches on a wide range of courses, both undergraduate and postgraduate, and is involved in related enterprise activity, research and scholarship and community engagement projects.

Kris is a keen advocate of research-informed teaching, and his current research interests are primarily sports and medical negligence, doping, the regulation of sport and ambush marketing. Being an active researcher, Kris ensures that his students see him working at the forefront of teaching and learning in his discipline, adding a very practical and applied aspect to their experience.

Catherine EdwardsCourse Leader: Legal Practice

Catherine Edwards is Course Leader for the Legal Practice Course; the vocational stage of education for aspiring solicitors and commonly used by paralegals to gain practical legal skills. Catherine studied law at De Montfort University before completing an MA in Criminal Justice at the University of Southampton and returning to Staffordshire University to study the Legal Practice Course. She trained as a solicitor in Surrey and worked in London and Surrey undertaking family and employment work before relocating to Shropshire and working as a family solicitor in high street firms in the West Midlands. Her experience in practice has influenced her teaching and allowed her to utilise contacts to enhance the relevance and practical nature of her teaching. An experienced lecturer, she teaches across a wide range of subjects and is retaining her interest in legal practice by undertaking consultancy work for a Legal 500 firm and editing a specialist text on Child Protection Law and Practice.

LAW SCHOOLUNDERGRADUATE COURSES

The courses listed below are all on campus and full-time, for international students who would like to gain an undergraduate award.



LLB - the Qualifying Law Degree

Law LLB(Hons) Law (Business Law) LLB(Hons)Law (Criminology) LLB(Hons)Law LLB(Hons) (Two-year Fast-track)Law LLB(Hons) (Four-year Degree including Foundation Year)



Graduate Diploma in Law CPE/GDL-LLB


Course outline:

This course is the established route into both branches of the legal profession for graduates in a non-law discipline and others without a degree but who have appropriate qualifications and experience who would either like a career in the legal profession, or who would benefit from a Law qualification.

On successful completion, you’ll receive two valuable law courses: the Graduate Diploma in Law and a degree, the LLB (CPE). After graduating, you can progress to the solicitors’ qualifying route, the Legal Practice Course (LPC) or to the barristers’ qualification, the Bar Professional Course (BPTC).

Our GDL graduates are guaranteed a place on our Legal Practice Course.

Module overview:

There is a comprehensive induction programme that allows you to gain an understanding of the English legal system, and introduces essential legal skills. You’ll then cover Foundation subjects, including:• Tort Law• Contract Law• Public Law • Equity and Trusts • Land Law • Crime • EC Law

You’ll also study elements of one other area of legal studies – either Employment Law or Social Welfare Law and Practice; depending on your preference. You’ll complete this part of the programme largely by self-managed study.


This course offers two valuable Law qualifications in their own right and is great if you want a career where knowledge of the law is needed. Completion of the GDL course is also the first stage for those seeking a law practice qualification. This route enables you to enter the Solicitors and Barristers vocational stage, and subsequent training. If you complete our GDL, you’ll be guaranteed a place on our LPC course or on any appropriate further degree for which you’re eligible.

LAW SCHOOLPOSTGRADUATE COURSES


Duration: 2–3 years part-time

Course outline:

With major sponsorship deals, global names and serious money involved, sport can be a breeding ground for contract disputes, disagreements and criminal activity. As a result, our LLM International Sports Law Masters has been designed for Law students and practitioners, as well as suitably qualified sports professionals, athletes and administrators. You’ll gain the qualifications, expertise and knowledge you need to operate within – and better understand the complexities of – the international sports arena.

Module overview:

With a truly international curriculum, the course blends practical sports issues with academic theory across a wide range of sports, countries and environments. Your choice of subject areas will include:• International Sporting Organisations and Rules• Sports Regulation and Governance• Commercial Regulation of Sport• Doping in Sport• Sport, the Individual and the Law (civil and criminal

injuries)

The LLM can be tailored to your own interests or area of practice. You’ll also have the opportunity to choose a current sports topic to research for a dissertation project.

International Sports Law LLM


DISTANCE LEARNING

Duration: 2–3 years part-time

Course outline:

This course award is ideal if you want an insight into the fundamental elements of International trade law and commerce, from understanding corporate governance, to raising finance, to intellectual property issues. You’ll learn how trade and the law interact across multiple jurisdictions and you’ll apply legal concepts to practical commercial contexts – within the domestic and international sphere. You’ll also explore and consider the application and relevance of UK Law within the world of globalised finance and commerce. And you’ll engage with topical, authentic transnational commercial issues and cutting-edge international research.

Module overview:

• Corporate Finance Law• International Banking Law• Transnational Corporate Governance• Intellectual Property Law • European Union Law


This course is ideal if you’re a legal practitioner looking for an alternative to the LLM Legal Practice. It’s also suitable if you’re a lawyer wishing to expand your academic knowledge, an MBA graduate, someone with commercial interests in a business or enterprise, or a Law student seeking a specialist route before starting an LPC/BPTC.

International Trade and Commerce LLM




Course outline:

This course is the postgraduate stage on the route to becoming a solicitor. It represents a practical training for the solicitors’ profession, where you’ll learn how to put law into practice. Most students study the LPC after passing a Law degree or gaining a Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL). You’ll need to have a Qualifying Law Degree or have met CPE/GDL requirements before you start the Legal Practice Course.

Blended learning:

This highly intensive route is available over one year full-time (around 32 hours of study per week), or up to two years part-time (16 hours of study per week). The course is taught 90% online, with face-to-face teaching particularly in relation to legal skills. You’ll need broadband access and other specific computer equipment, along with good IT skills, a high level of motivation and a disciplined approach to self study.

Module overview:

Core modules:

• Property Law and Practice• Litigation• Business Law and Practice

5 Specified Legal Skills:

• Writing Skills• Drafting Skills• Advocacy• Interviewing Skills• Practical Legal Research• Pervasive areas of Professional Conduct and Regulation• Wills and Administration of Estates• Solicitors’ Accounts Rules

Optional modules:

• Corporate and Commercial Client• Commercial Property• Employment Law• Family Law• Advanced Criminal Practice• Advanced Civil Litigation and Dispute Resolution• Public Child Law (Child Care Proceedings)• Private Client

Optional top up LLM in Legal Practice provides an insight into the topical issues in legal practices, both nationally and internationally.


We offer ongoing careers advice to help you make the most of the opportunities available. Our longstanding links with national and local practices help us advise you on a range of options. You may start your LPC with a training contract, or find one during the year you are with us. Students also find that the skills and experience they gain enables them to work as paralegals until the start of their training contract.

Legal Practice Course(Blended Learning)



Duration: 12–72 months depending on mode of study. Full-time and part-time routes are available.

Course outline:

Law research degrees involve in depth exploration of a research question involving personal research undertaken over 12–72 months under the expert guidance of a supervisory team in Law.

You’ll complete a project of around 80,000 words, exploring your topic and producing a thesis from your research in preparing for your viva in which you will defend your thesis.

MPhil (40,000 words) minimum registration 1.5 – 2 years

PhD (80,000 words) minimum registration 2.5 – 3 years


Higher degrees are often required for senior positions in business and industry. Many graduates establish successful careers in education/academia.

Law Research Degrees MPhil/PhD

Research Degrees

Staffordshire UniversityCollege RoadStoke-on-TrentST4 2DE

+44 (0)1782 [email protected]/international

M6359 NJ 01.15

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