Prospectus 2005-2006 for students resident in the UK

Welcome

We're confident that you'll get an unforgettable learning experience, work hard, perhaps meet some great people and thoroughly enjoy yourself in the process.

We look forward to you joining us as an OU Business School student.

Professor James Fleck

Dean of the OU Business School

The Open University

CONTENTS

About us How to get started About us Professional recognition Distance learning, but not as you know it Consider the professional and personal benefits Our MBA Alumni Association - a powerful network A brief guide to our learning portfolio Making a persuasive case for sponsorship Research capability General information about studying with the OU What we can offer you

Professional and Management Development The Professional Certificate in Management Professional Certificate in Management Public and not-for-profit version Certificate in Accounting The Professional Diploma in Management Master degrees MBA - Master of Business Administration

Becoming an OU student When to apply Entry and study requirements How much will it cost? How to pay Studying outside the UK How to apply Application form Other OU prospectuses Data protection

How to get started

Here’s how you can become an OU Business School student in three easy steps:

We translate biggest into best.

The OU Business School is one of the largest business schools in Europe, with around 33,000 course enrolments annually, in 31countries. But they don’t come to us because we’re the biggest. It’s not scale but specialism that has bred our success. Since our foundation in 1983, we’ve been dedicated exclusively to the development of distance learning in the field of management and professional education. By building in so many supportive elements to our courses, we have transformed the meaning — and reputation — of distance learning.

International validity

The OU Business School is the business faculty of one of the largest universities in the world. The OU has pioneered and popularised distance learning throughout the world and is renowned for the excellence of its courses and support systems.

The OU Business School and its collaborative partners offer courses in 31 countries. Courses are taught in English, the international business language. For the international management executive, the flexibility of our courses is crucial to their success.

What we’ve achieved in the past two decades:

What’s new?

Our programme of continuous development and innovation is designed to meet today’s changing market needs and ensure that the OU Business School stays in the forefront of business and management teaching and learning. Our latest courses and awards include:

• Understanding management
• Developing Entrepreneurial Business Ideas
• Diploma in Business Studies (undergraduate)
• Postgraduate Certificate in International Finance and Reporting
• MBA — Master Degree in Business Administration, including specialist versions for Technology Management and Life Sciences
• MPA — Master Degree in Public Administration
• Master of Science Degree in International Finance and Accounting
• Master of Science Degree in Human Resource Management.

Professional recognition

We’re recognised wherever we go.

The quality of our courses has earned us recognition and accreditation from key industry bodies around the world. We’re accredited by the three premier management education associations, AMBA, EQUIS and AACSB, an achievement that puts the OU Business School in an elite group. Less than 1% of business schools worldwide are triple accredited.

	EQUIS We’ve been awarded the prestigious European quality kitemark (EQUIS) by the European Foundation for Management Development (EFMD). Based in Brussels, EFMD is Europe’s forum for information, research, networking and best practice in management development. The EQUIS award is an international standard for the auditing and accreditation of higher education institutions in management and business administration.
	The Association of MBAs Our MBA programme is accredited by the Association of MBAs (AMBA). The AMBA is unique in representing the interests of MBA students and graduates, leading business schools and MBA employers. The AMBA independent accreditation service has international credibility.
	AACSB We’ve been granted accreditation by AACSB International (The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business), the leading USA-based accreditation body. We’re the first exclusively distance learning school to be awarded the AACSB International accreditation. Among our strengths that the AACSB highlights are: the effective use of the OU’s supported open learning methods, which provide an excellent and highly effective learning environment the support, enthusiasm and involvement of our alumni an ’exemplary’ approach to the ’team concept of curriculum development and its total stakeholder involvement’ the commitment of the School’s network of Associate Lecturers. AACSB International accreditation is granted only to schools that satisfy the expectations that the business and academic communities attach to a wide range of quality standards.

Other recognition

• ACCA, CIMA, CPA, IFA, CIPFA and ICAEW accreditation for our Certificate in Accounting. The Certificate carries similar status to the ACCA and AAT technical certificates.
• The Higher Education Funding Council for England rated us ’Excellent’ for teaching and support systems.

Our research is at the leading edge in fields such as Brand Management, Management of Knowledge and Innovation, and Human Resource Management.

We are the first business school to receive Certification of elearning (CEL) by the European Foundation for Management Development (EFMD). The award recognises the quality of our innovative Professional Diploma in Management. The CEL scheme recognises that elearning is about more than just technology; the accreditation process looks very carefully at the effectiveness of the teaching and learning process.

The OU Business School is an Investor in People.

Distance learning, but not as you know it

Distance learning is a term that can be misunderstood. Unlike correspondence courses, learning with us offers you personal support, face-to-face as well as by telephone, email and computer conferencing.

Being part of a tutor group

Wherever you live, you’ll be part of a tutor group, typically involving around 16 students. When student clusters and location allow, your tutor will organise tutorials and seminars during the course. This provides you with an opportunity to debate issues raised by the course, seek guidance and network with fellow professionals.

The reward of residential schools

Some of our courses offer a residential school, normally lasting from two to four days. The residential school will be held at a university, college, management centre or hotel, where you’ll have an opportunity to join intensive group sessions to help crystallise the skills and knowledge you have gained from the course. Some courses offer an online alternative to attending residential schools, if circumstances prevent you from participating.

Optional online-only tuition

Some courses can be studied with online tuition. Online versions make extensive use of computer conferencing (CMC) with students and tutors to support and expand upon the course learning materials. So you still get the advantages of being part of a group.

More besides

There are other networking opportunities through our computer-conferencing facilities, through your course website and perhaps through our OU Business School Business Network or Alumni Association.

Achieving your award

On most qualification programmes, there are final examinations that are held at a number of major cities throughout Europe. You’ll need to pass in order to be awarded your qualification.

If your award is a degree, you can choose where to receive it. Graduation ceremonies are held in a variety of locations including Belfast, Brussels, Dublin, London, Manchester and Paris. You’re advised to check the timing and potential location of examinations and graduation ceremonies when you register for your course.

Working your studies around your life

The unparalleled flexibility of our distance-learning courses means that you can carry on with your job and your life. Whether you’re an international traveller, work unpredictable hours or need to plan your study around other commitments, we can offer you resources to suit your needs.

You can study one of our courses practically whenever and wherever you choose, so there’s no need for you to take extra time off work -a benefit that’s valued by students and employers alike.

Consider the professional and personal benefits

There are many distinguishing features of our courses and qualifications. To a potential student, however, features are largely irrelevant — it’s the benefits derived from them that matter.

The benefit of quality

Each of our courses is designed especially for distance learning, and the quality of our courses and materials is world-renowned. All of our materials are produced by and for the OU Business School, and are underpinned by our strong research and academic units. Your study (or your qualification) will therefore be recognised and valued in your business or profession. Our high-quality study materials are complemented by the appropriate use of technology to enrich your learning experience.

The benefit of all-inclusive fees

Before the start of each course, you’ll be sent a package containing all the relevant materials you need to begin your studies. A study guide will help you get the most from the course and all the necessary books, articles, CD-ROMs and audio/video materials will be mailed to you or will be available via the web. So you’ll have ready access to first-class learning resources at all times and there’s no need to buy additional materials.

The benefit of a network of support

Whilst you’re studying, you can seek advice from your tutor, use the interactive course websites or contact your peers using computer-conferencing facilities. Networking in this way gives you access to a wealth of shared knowledge that will enrich your study experience.

The benefit of immediate relevance

On most courses you’ll find that your experience at work will become a feature of your study, and your study will be immediately relevant to your work. Students have found that what they learn one day, they can put into practice the next.

The benefit of an experienced tutor

Your tutor will normally be a practising business professional with a combination of extensive business experience and a strong academic background. Your tutor will:

• advise and support you
• help you to maintain your motivation throughout your studies
• lead group tutorials (where student numbers allow)
• be accessible by a combination of telephone, post, email and computer conferencing
• give you feedback on your assignments.

The benefit to your confidence

All of our courses are designed to improve your skills and competencies. In turn, this increases your own confidence in your performance at work and in your dealings with colleagues.

Our MBA Alumni Association - a powerful network

Membership services and benefits include regional alumni groups across the UK and mainland Europe, offering a range of updating and development activities, workshops and weekend residential schools. The alumni website at www.open.ac.uk/oubs-alumni with secure membership directory enables you to keep in touch with each other and the monthly e-newsletter keeps you informed; Open Business magazine, guaranteed membership to the Chartered Management Institute (see below) and annual discount voucher against further study are also included. As a student you’re welcome to attend regional events and the alumni office, email oubs-alumni@open.ac.uk can put you in touch with your local group.

The Association of MBAs (AMBA)

The Association of MBAs is the membership organisation for MBA students and graduates of accredited programmes. As the most visible and trusted name in the world of the MBA, the Association is here to help members to develop an extensive network of contacts in business.

With an international membership, AMBA offers membership services including: www.mbacareerworld.com, an online jobs service with career advice and guidance; networking and speaker events; an online and hard copy members’ address book, searchable online and an online knowledge bank facility to update knowledge as well as practical business information.

As a student, you can benefit by starting early to build your contact network across a range of business schools with members in your particular area.

Membership is available to students for an annual subscription of £95 plus an initial joining fee of £35. Visit www.mbacareerworld.com/membership for details or contact the membership department on +44 (0)20 7246 2676.

Professional membership of the Chartered Management Institute

As an MBA Student with the OU Business School, you can take advantage of guaranteed membership of the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) at Associate grade without undergoing normal assessment. This is at a discounted rate of £75, giving you a saving of £40.

As well as professional recognition and support throughout your career, you’ll enjoy a wide range of CMI benefits including unlimited access to Europe’s largest management information centre, online Continuing Professional Development (CPD) scheme, career advice, extensive networking opportunities and free 24-hour legal helpline. Institute Membership is also the first step on the route to Chartered Manager.

If you have significant management experience at operational level, you may be able to join the Institute at Member grade (MCMI). The best way to do this is to use the fast-track form and then complete an upgrade form at registration. There will be an additional assessment fee at a reduced price of £25 (normally £45).

Contact Christine Sargent, Alumni Relations Manager for further information:

Email c.sargent@open.ac.uk
Tel +44 (0)1908 655806
www.open.ac.uk/oubs-alumni

A brief guide to our earning portfolio

The OU Business School aims to offer you maximum choice.

You can work towards a recognised and highly-regarded qualification. Or you can study an individual course to improve a specific business or management skill. Some courses can be used as entry routes to future qualifications and others are designed to meet specific learning needs.

Qualifications

Undergraduate Diploma in Business Studies

Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Business Studies

Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Business Studies with specialist options e. g. with Economics; with French; with Spanish; with Law; with Systems Practice, with Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) or with Accounting

Professional Certificate in Management Professional Diploma in Management Certificate in Accounting

MBA including sector versions for Technology Management and Life Sciences

MPA

Master of Science in International Finance and Accounting

Master of Science in Human Resource Management

Postgraduate Certificate in International Finance and Reporting

Postgraduate Certificate in Knowledge Transfer

Master of Science in Management and Business Research Methods

PhD

Courses

Our range of business and management courses is constantly being updated and covers a wide range of subject areas:

• management (from entry level to master degree)
• qualifications for not-for-profit professionals
• business studies
• human resource management
• accounting
• finance
• law
• managing in health and social care
• economics
• leadership
• development management
• entrepreneurship
• fundraising.

Try for yourself

If you'd like to get a better idea of the content of our courses, you can register for a series of free email course samplers from the homepage of our website. Over a six-week period, you'll receive a taster of the course you're interested in, with activities for you to try out, which will help you decide if the content or level of study is right for you.

The OU Business School provides everything you need for successful study, from quality materials to personal support.

You'll find a short description of all the courses and qualifications we offer in our prospectus. More comprehensive details, as well as a range of advice and resources can be found on our website at www.oubs.open.ac.uk

The OU Business School is also the home of the OU Centre for Law. For further information on our law courses and qualifications, please visit our website at www.oubs.open.ac.uk or request the Law prospectus by phoning+44 (0)1908 653231 or by returning the form on page 67.

...and finally the OU offers a huge range of courses and qualifications. Visit our website at www.open.ac.uk for more information or call our Student Registration and Enquiry Service +44(0)870 333 4340.

Making a persuasive case for sponsorship

If you know that you've a head for business and that honing your skills could be productive for your organisation, it could be worth approaching your employer for sponsorship. Annually, more than 4000 organisations sponsor managers on our courses. If you're considering approaching your employer for support, financial or otherwise, here are some of the key benefits you could use to support your case:

• your studies will give you skills and knowledge that can be immediately and relevantly applied to the workplace
• you can continue to work whilst you learn
• our courses instil confidence
• management and professional education integrates study with your current work performance
• most courses are modular and adapt well to CPD needs
• our high degree of support will help you to study successfully without impeding your career progression in the organisation
• some CPD courses can contribute towards a recognised qualification if you meet the necessary criteria.

Sponsorship benefits to an organisation

As an organisation, are you considering sponsoring your employees to develop their business or management capabilities? Around 60% of our students are supported (financially or otherwise) by their company or organisation. Most managers are sponsored on programmes leading to internationally- recognised professional qualifications. Here are some of the benefits of sponsoring your employees to study with us:

• our fees are all inclusive, covering books, videos, CD ROMs, software, residential school (where compulsory), assessment and standard exams. Your finance department will know the precise cost from the outset - there are no hidden extras
• your employees will receive high quality, cost-effective management development
• our programmes can be tailored to the needs of your organisation
• you'll have a single point of contact (an Account Manager or local country representative)
• we provide the framework for structured long-term development
• research shows that management education is a proven tool in the retention and recruitment of high calibre staff
• as well as defined programmes, we offer modular courses that can be selected according to personal or corporate requirements
• our courses are geographically transportable and managers relocating within your organisation won't have their studies interrupted.

Please see pages 44-45 for further information on our corporately focused and cost-effective Management and Leadership Development Services.

Research capability

Firm foundations

A significant research capability underpins our success in management education.

Research at the OU Business School feeds into the development of new management courses in our teaching programmes, and into the ongoing development of our portfolio. Research helps shape the agenda for teaching programmes as well as ensuring the curriculum maintains the highest quality, and the designed learning processes are state of the art.

Staff are involved in a wide range of research activities undertaken in close collaboration with partner organisations in the business, public and not-for-profit sectors both in the UK and throughout the rest of Europe.

These activities are often externally funded. In recent years external research funding has been won from:

• European Commission
• Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC)
• Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC)
• Beneficial Bank (a division of HFC)
• Leverhulme Trust
• Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA)
• Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)
• Charities Evaluation Services.

Research results are disseminated through publications in a wide range of academic and practitioner journals, books, conference presentations, course materials and other media.

What makes our research distinctive?

Our research is distinctive in a number of ways. It has a strong cross-disciplinary character exemplified by projects that link innovation and human resource management in new and effective ways and in projects exploring the behavioural aspects of supply-chain management. Other research includes the nature of internet-based trade, managers' roles in the evolution of business knowledge, knowledge management for sustainability and an evaluation of voluntary sector training. OU Business School staff are in great demand to collaborate with other world-class university research teams and a wide range of non-academic partners.

Key research areas include:

• international accounting
• law
• strategic human resource management
• knowledge management
• corporate universities
• consumers and the internet
• supply-chain management
• social enterprise
• ecommerce innovations
• small and medium-sized enterprises
• management learning.

Most research activity takes place within five research units in the areas of:

• accounting and finance
• human resources
• management of knowledge and innovation
• marketing and strategy
• public interest and non-profit.

For further information on research at the OU Business School, including details of projects, publications and the research units go to www.oubs.open.ac.uk and click on research.

General information about studying with the OU

Level of study

Many of our courses carry academic credit, as explained below.

Undergraduate courses are at three academic levels:

• Openings Level 1 courses are short introductory courses, which are an ideal starting point for students who haven't studied for some time or have few, if any educational qualifications. The Openings Understanding management course carries an award of ten Level 1 credit points. Longer Level 1 courses provide the basic subject knowledge and study skills, for both higher education and distance learning, that you need before progressing to courses at Level 2.
• At Level 2 you need to have a basic knowledge of the subject area, obtained either through Level 1 study with the OU or by doing equivalent study at another higher-education institution or gained from work experience.
• Level 3 courses build on study skills and subject knowledge acquired from previous studies at Levels 1 and 2.

Postgraduate courses are at a higher level, and therefore more challenging, than undergraduate study and are all broadly of the same level (although where a masters degree is divided into two stages, Stage Two masters courses may be more demanding than those at Stage One and a doctoral degree is more demanding than a masters degree).

The Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF)

The Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) level indicates how the course compares in terms of knowledge, skills and competence with other courses offered in Scotland.

All our Openings and Level 1 courses are equivalent to SCQF Level 7, our Level 2 courses are equivalent to either SCQF Level 8 or Level 9 while our Level 3 courses are equivalent to SCQF Level 10. Our postgraduate courses are equivalent to SCQF Level 11 or 12. The exact level for any given course is shown on our website.

Value of study

Accredited courses are designated as being of a certain CATS (Credit Accumulation and Transfer System) points value, e.g. 30 points, 60 points. Each point equates to ten hours of study and assessment at a particular level. To gain an award, you need to complete the specified courses that add up to the number of points required for the award e.g. a bachelors degree with honours in Business Studies requires 360 points. In addition, the level of the points must accord with the award regulations. You'll find further information on points and levels within the specific award programmes.

Credit for previous study elsewhere

If you have already completed some successful study at higher-education level at another institution anywhere in the world, we may be able to give you credit that you can count towards a number of our diplomas and degrees. You can find out more on our Credit Transfer website at www.open.ac.uk/credit-transfer or telephone +44 (0)1908 653077. If you make a successful claim for transferred credit it may affect your choice of courses, so you're advised to investigate this option as soon as possible.

What we can offer you