Project Management MSc

This module is designed to focus on building your knowledge of management as well as your own unique approach to management. You will learn about the key principles and practices of management, including organisational structures and leadership. You will also explore the principles and practice of marketing and organisational success.

Organisational performance is largely dependent on the performance of people, which in turn is determined by the quality and effectiveness of their management, therefore it is crucial that managers are able to effectively manage people. You will learn about people management, HR policy and practices, and how managing performance, motivation empowerment and the development of commitment.

You will develop a thorough understanding of the process of project management, together with the diverse range of resources and activities that the project manager must plan, co-ordinate and control to achieve a successful project. The Module establishes the framework for the management of projects through a comprehensive understanding of the role and functions of project management throughout the project life-cycle from inception through all its stages to completion and use.

This module will give you a sound understanding of the context for project management and how projects relate to organisations and the larger organisational environment. You will explore contemporary project management by looking at examples from a wide range of organisations and industries.

You will develop a systematic understanding of a number of key tools and techniques used in the management of projects, enabling you to critically evaluate project needs and to select and apply appropriate techniques for your project. With the demand for continuous improvement, production systems such as lean and agile will be explored as well as other performance improvement tools and techniques, including risk and risk management, to identify and manage risk throughout the project life cycle.

You will gain an in-depth understanding of the financial, commercial and cost aspects of projects and project management. You'll explore the business and commercial environment in which projects exist, and critically evaluate the factors that influence the strategic and financial rationale for projects. You will learn how the business case for projects is developed, established and evaluated, together with the processes involved, supported by an understanding of financial and accounting protocols and practices.

You'll develop a systematic understanding of the principles, practices and systems used to plan and control projects. You'll develop a critical insight into integrated planning and programming software and information systems and the potential of Project Management Information Systems [PMIS] to provide effective management of all aspects of a project, especially resources, time and cost.

This module is designed to equip you with an in-depth understanding of the theories and methods of research and research design. You'll develop a theoretical and practical foundation from which to develop your Masters Level Major Project/Dissertation.

This Module provides the opportunity for you to undertake a significant piece of independent research using appropriate, recognised methods. You will identify and pursue a topic relevant to project management that is of interest and in which you wish to develop a significant level of expertise. You'll develop and refine the theme for the project together with your course tutor, who will support you during the research and writing process. It's your opportunity to put your newly acquired skills and knowledge into practice and to showcase them to current and prospective employers.

Assessment will be in the form of written assignments for each of the modules together with your major project/dissertation.