UNIVERSITY OF KENT
Programme Specification
MSc Business Analytics
1. Awarding Institution/Body
University of Kent
2. Teaching Institution
University of Kent
3. School responsible for management of
the programme
Kent Business School
4. Teaching Site
Canterbury
5. Mode of Delivery
Full-time
6. Programme accredited by
N/A
7. Final Award
MSc; PGDip; PGCert
8. Programme
Business Analytics
9. UCAS Code (or other code)
N/A
10. Credits/ECTS value
180/90 ECTs
11. Study Level
M
12. Relevant QAA subject benchmarking
group(s)
Masters in Business and Management 2007
13. Date of creation/revision (note that
dates are necessary for version control)
September 2011/revised Feb2013/ revised
14. Intended Start Date of Delivery of this
Programme
From September 2014
Jan 2014
15. Educational Aims of the Programme
The programme aims to:
The programme aims to:
 Educate individuals as business analytics specialists, and thus improve the quality of
business analytics as a profession. (SB 2.1)
 Prepare students to be operationally effective in the area of business analytics and/or
prepare them for an academic career in business analytics. (SB2.7)
 Provide in-depth study in business analytics including ancillary subjects relevant to
business analytics. The content of the programme has a strong theoretical base but it also
provides a range of skills relevant to practice (SB 2.8).
 Add value to first degrees by offering students a theoretical and practical exposure to
problem solving techniques for effective decision making in a variety of complex strategic,
operational and managerial situations (SB 2.1).
 Provide career development opportunities by enhancing analytical modelling knowledge
and understanding and professional competence in individuals who are already
experienced managers and who wish to enhance their competence through a structured
course of study (SB 2.1).
 Foster enhancement of lifelong learning skills and personal development so as to be able to
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work with self-direction and originality and to contribute to business and society at large.
(SB2.1, 2.5)
Develop an appropriate range of cognitive, critical and intellectual skills, research skills and
relevant personal and interpersonal skills (SB 3.3).
Develop the ability to conduct research into business and management issues either
individually or as part of a team through research design, data collection, analysis,
synthesis, and reporting.
Develop effective two-way communication skills: effective oral and written communication
of complex ideas and arguments, using a range of media, including the preparation of
business reports and professional presentations.
Develop effective performance within team environments and the ability to recognise and
use individuals’ contributions in group processes and to negotiate and persuade or
influence others.
Provide teaching and learning opportunities that are informed by high quality research and
scholarship, from within the Kent Business School and elsewhere.
Develop new areas and methods of teaching in response to the advance of knowledge,
changes in technology and the needs of students (SB 2.1, 2.3).
Meet the growing market demand for highly skilled analytics workers.
16 Programme Outcomes
The programme provides opportunities for students to develop and demonstrate knowledge
and understanding, qualities, skills and other attributes in the following areas. The programme
outcomes have references to the subject benchmarking statement for
A. Knowledge and Understanding of: (i.e. subject-specific knowledge and understanding)
1.
A systematic understanding of relevant knowledge about organisations, their external
context and how they are managed. (SB5.1)
2.
Application of Business Analytics knowledge to a range of complex situations taking
account of its relationship and interaction with other areas of the business or organisation.
(SB5.1)
3.
A critical awareness of current issues in Business Analytics which is informed by leading
edge research and practice in the field. (SB5.1)
Teaching/learning and assessment methods and strategies used to enable outcomes to
be achieved and demonstrated
Teaching/Learning
Lead lectures; tutor-led seminars; student-led seminars; self-directed learning facilitated by
study guides and web-based material; computer-based learning; computer workshops;
problem-based learning scenarios; example classes; role playing exercised; individual and
group presentations, student-centred mentoring; individual and group research and project
work.
Assessment
Written examination papers (time-constrained); coursework essays, reports and computational
questions; computer-based assignments; dissertations/ reports; presentations
Skills and Other Attributes
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B. Intellectual Skills: (i.e. subject-specific intellectual skills)
1.
Creativity in the application of Business Analytics knowledge, together with a practical
understanding of how established techniques of research and enquiry are used to develop
and interpret knowledge in business and management. (SB5.1)
2.
Business Analytics understanding that enables the student to:
 Evaluate the rigour and validity of published research and assess its relevance to
new situations.
 Extrapolate from existing research and scholarship to identify new or revised
approaches to practice. (SB5.1)
3.
Be adaptable, and show originality, insight, and critical and reflective abilities which can all
be brought to bear upon problem situations. (SB5.2)
4.
Evaluate and integrate theory and practice in a wide range of situations. (SB5.2)
5.
Take responsibility for continuing to develop their own knowledge and skills. (SB5.2)
Teaching/learning and assessment methods and strategies used to enable outcomes to
be achieved and demonstrated
Teaching/Learning
Lead lectures; tutor-led seminars; student-led seminars; self-directed learning facilitated by
study guides and web-based material; computer-based learning; computer workshops;
problem-based learning scenarios; examples classes; role playing exercises; individual and
group presentations, student-centred mentoring, individual and group research and project.
Assessment
Written examination papers (time-constrained); coursework essays, reports and computational
questions; computer-based assignments; dissertations/reports; presentations
C. Subject-specific Skills: (These will include practise and professional skills)
1.
An understanding of appropriate techniques sufficient to allow detailed investigation into
relevant business and management issues. (SB5.1)
2.
Ability to acquire and analyse data and information, to evaluate their relevance and
validity, and to synthesise a range of information in the context of new situations. (SB5.1)
3.
Ability to conduct research into business analytics issues that requires familiarity with a
range of business data, research sources and appropriate methodologies, and for such to
inform the overall learning process. (SB5.1)
Once they are in professional practice, master's graduates should be able to:
4.
Consistently apply their knowledge and subject-specific and wider intellectual skills.
(SB5.2)
5.
Deal with complex issues both systematically and creatively, make sound judgements in
the absence of complete data, and communicate their conclusions clearly to a range of
audiences. (SB5.2)
Be adaptable, and show originality, insight, and critical and reflective abilities which can all
be brought to bear upon problem situations. (SB5.2)
6.
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Teaching/learning and assessment methods and strategies used to enable outcomes to
be achieved and demonstrated
Teaching/Learning
Lead lectures; tutor-led seminars; student-led seminars; self-directed learning facilitated by
study guides and web-based material; computer-based learning; computer workshops;
problem-based learning scenarios; examples classes; role playing exercises; individual and
group presentations, student-centred mentoring, individual and group research and project.
Assessment
Written examination papers (time-constrained); coursework essays, reports and computational
questions; computer-based assignments; dissertations/reports; presentations
D. Transferable Skills: (Non-subject specific key skills)
1.
Creativity in the application of Business Analytics knowledge, together with a practical
understanding of how established techniques of research and enquiry are used to develop
and interpret knowledge in business and management. (SB5.1)
2.
Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing, using a range of media.
(SB5.1)
3.
Operate effectively in a variety of team roles and take leadership roles, where appropriate.
(SB5.1)
Once they are in professional practice, master's graduates should be able to:
4.
Deal with complex issues both systematically and creatively, make sound judgements in
the absence of complete data, and communicate their conclusions clearly to a range of
audiences. (SB5.2)
5.
Be proactive in recognising the need for change and have the ability to manage change.
(SB5.2)
6.
Make decisions in complex and unpredictable situations. (SB5.2)
7.
Be self-directed and able to act autonomously in planning and implementing projects at
professional levels. (SB5.2)
Teaching/learning and assessment methods and strategies used to enable outcomes to
be achieved and demonstrated
For information on which modules provide which skills, see the module mapping
17 Programme Structures and Requirements, Levels, Modules, Credits and Awards
This programme is studied over one year full-time.
The programme is divided into two stages. Stage 1 comprises modules to a total of 135 credits
and Stage 2 comprises a 45 credit dissertation module. Students must successfully complete
each module in order to be awarded the specified number of credits for that module. One credit
corresponds to approximately ten hours of 'learning time' (including all classes and all private
study and research). Thus obtaining 180 credits in an academic year requires 1,800 hours of
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overall learning time. For further information on modules and credits refer to the Credit
Framework at http://www.kent.ac.uk/teaching/qa/credit-framework/creditinfo.html
Each module is designed to be at a specific level. For the descriptors of each of these levels,
refer to Annex 2 of the Credit Framework at http://www.kent.ac.uk/teaching/qa/creditframework/creditinfoannex2.html. To be eligible for the award of a masters degree students
must obtain 180 credits, at least 150 of which must be Level M. Students who obtain 120
credits, but excluding the dissertation, will be eligible for the award of diploma.
Compulsory modules are core to the programme and must be taken by all students studying
the programme. Optional modules provide a choice of subject areas, from which students will
select a stated number of modules.
Where a student fails a module(s) due to illness or other mitigating circumstances, such failure
may be condoned, subject to the requirements of the Credit Framework and provided that the
student has achieved the programme learning outcomes. For further information refer to the
Credit Framework at http://www.kent.ac.uk/teaching/qa/credit-framework/creditinfo.html.
Where a student fails a module(s), but has marks for such modules within 10 percentage points
of the pass mark, the Board of Examiners may nevertheless award the credits for the
module(s), subject to the requirements of the Credit Framework and provided that the student
has achieved the programme learning outcomes. For further information refer to the Credit
Framework. The modules marked with an asterisk (*) below cannot be compensated. CB8005
cannot be compensated for by those students who aim to proceed to the MSc dissertation
Alternatively, any other optional module (with the appropriate credit volume) from the range
of School modules may be selected, with the agreement of the programme director.
Code
Title
Level
Credits
Term(s)
Stage 1
Compulsory Modules
CB997*
Management Science Modelling
M
15/7.5
1
CB969*
Statistics for Management
M
15/7.5
1
CB932
Management of Operations
M
15/7.5
1
CB9035*
Applied Business Modelling
M
15/7.5
2
CB9040*
Data Mining and Forecasting
M
15/7.5
2
CB8005*
Consultancy and Research Skills
M
15/7.5
2
Optional Modules Students must select 3 from the following:
CB936
Business in an International Perspective
M
15/7.5
1
CB937
Financial and Management Accounting
M
15/7.5
1
CB996
Introduction to Logistics and Supply
Chain Management
M
15/7.5
1
CB927
Heuristics and Optimization
M
15/7.5
2
CB966
Simulation and Optimization Software
M
15/7.5
2
CB968
Performance Management
M
15/7.5
2
CB9058
Warehousing and Transport
Management
M
15/7.5
2
Other recommended options
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CB859
Managing the Multi-National Enterprise
M
15/7.5
2
CB904
Structure and organization of the ecommerce enterprise
M
15/7.5
2
CB934
Strategy
M
15/7.5
2
M
45/22.5
3
Stage 2
Compulsory Modules
CB986*
Dissertation
18 Work-Based Learning
Disability Statement: Where disabled students are due to undertake a work placement as part
of this programme of study, a representative of the University will meet with the work placement
provider in advance to ensure the provision of anticipatory and reasonable adjustments in line
with legal requirements.
Where relevant to the programme of study, provide details of any work-based learning element,
inclusive of employer details, delivery, assessment and support for students.
 There is no work-based learning element which constitutes a formal part of this programme
19 Support for Students and their Learning
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School and University induction programme
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Graduate School (Provision of (i) skills training (workshops and online courses) (ii)
institutional level induction and (iii) student-led initiatives such as social events,
conferences and workshops) www.kent.ac.uk/graduateschool/index.html
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Information Services (computing and library services) www.kent.ac.uk/is/
Programme/module handbooks
Student Support and Wellbeing www.kent.ac.uk/studentsupport/
Student Learning Advisory Service http://www.kent.ac.uk/uelt/about/slas.html
Counselling Service www.kent.ac.uk/counselling/
Kent Union www.kentunion.co.uk/
Graduate Student Association (GSA)
www.kent.ac.uk/graduateschool/community/woolf.html
Postgraduate student representation at School, Faculty and Institutional levels
Centre for English and World Languages www.kent.ac.uk/cewl/index.html
Careers and Employability Services www.kent.ac.uk/ces/
International Office www.kent.ac.uk/international/
Medical Centre www.kent.ac.uk/counselling/menu/Medical-Centre.html
Library services, see http://www.kent.ac.uk/library/
PASS system, see https://www.kent.ac.uk/uelt/quality/code2001/annexg.html
Insert any additional School-specific information about the support available
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20 Entry Profile
The minimum age to study a degree programme at the university is normally at least 17 years
old by 20 September in the year the course begins. There is no upper age limit.
20.1 Entry Route
For fuller information, please refer to the University prospectus
UK Students
Normally an upper second class degree from a university in the United Kingdom or at another
approved University in a numerate discipline.
Accreditation of Prior Learning
We will consider any evidence of previous study and ability to follow the proposed programme.
In particular, those who do not meet the requirements above may be admitted subject to
interview and may be required to take a GMAT test.
International students
In order to enter directly onto a degree programme you also need to demonstrate your
proficiency in English, and we ask for one of the following:
 Applicants must normally achieve an overall IELTS score of 6.5 (with a minimum of 6.0
in both Reading and Writing) or equivalent.
 Applicants who do not meet the required IELTS score can apply to undertake a presessional programme (19, 12 or 6 week) in order to reach the required 6.5 IELTS score
or equivalent.
 Applicants who do not meet the entry criteria for a MSc/MBA programme will be offered
the Graduate Diploma in International Management with Management English,
providing they hold a minimum honours degree and IELTS score of 5.5 (minimum of 5.5
in all components) and meet any programme specific entry requirements.
 TOEFL score: iBT – 100 (including 22 in reading and writing, 21 listening and 23
speaking)
 Grade A in Cambridge Advanced Certificate in English.
 Pearson Test of English (PTE) 68 (including 65 in all four subjects)
(Note: students from the School of International Business (SIB) of the Beijing Foreign Studies
University who successfully complete the programme of study of SIB as described in the
Memorandum of Understanding and Programme Specification agreed by SIB and Kent
Business School will be deemed to have satisfied the academic requirements above for
admission to this MSc programme of the University of Kent. They will also need to satisfy the
English language requirement specified above).
(Note: students from LIUC Carlo Cattaneo University of Castellanza who successfully complete
the programme of study of LIUC as described in the Memorandum of Understanding agreed by
LIUC and Kent Business School will be deemed to have satisfied the academic requirements
above for admission to this MSc programme of the University of Kent. Furthermore they will be
able to claim APCL from module CB969 (Statistics for Management). They will also need to
satisfy the standard English language requirement specified by the University of Kent).
20.2 What does this programme have to offer?
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An excellent grounding in business analytics techniques including the general management
and decision making context within which such techniques are used
The development of a broad range of skills that are highly sought after by employers and
which open up a wide range of business and management careers to graduates.
20.3 Personal Profile
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Understanding of business
A strong interest in a career in management
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A strong interest in the application of quantitative methods to business.
A willingness to develop knowledge across all aspects of business and management.
A commitment to develop the knowledge and skills required to analyse management and
business problems.
Suitable levels of numeracy.
A willingness to acquire IT skills.
21 Methods for Evaluating and Enhancing the Quality and Standards of Teaching and
Learning
21.1 Mechanisms for review and evaluation of teaching, learning, assessment, the
curriculum and outcome standards
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Quality Assurance Framework http://www.kent.ac.uk/teaching/qa/codes/index.html
Periodic Programme Review http://www.kent.ac.uk/teaching/qa/codes/taught/annexf.html
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External Examiners system http://www.kent.ac.uk/teaching/qa/codes/taught/annexk.html
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QAA Higher Education Review, see http://www.qaa.ac.uk/InstitutionReports/types-ofreview/higher-education-review/Pages/default.aspx
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Annual programme and module monitoring reports
http://www.kent.ac.uk/teaching/qa/codes/taught/annexe.html
Student module evaluations
Annual staff appraisal
Peer observation
21.2 Committees with responsibility for monitoring and evaluating quality and standards
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Board of Examiners
School Graduate Studies Committee
Faculty Graduate Studies Committee
Faculty Board
Graduate School Board
Staff/Student Liaison Committee
21.3 Mechanisms for gaining student feedback on the quality of teaching and their
learning experience
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Staff-Student Liaison Committee
Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey (PTES)
Student module evaluations
Postgraduate Student Representation System (School, Faculty and Institutional level)
21.4 Staff Development priorities include:
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Annual Appraisals
Institutional Level Staff Development Programme
Study Leave
Academic Practice Provision (PGCHE, ATAP and other development opportunities)
PGCHE requirements
HEA (associate) fellowship membership
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Professional body membership and requirements
Programme team meetings
Research seminars
Conferences
22 Indicators of Quality and Standards
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Annual External Examiner reports
Results of periodic programme review (April 2011)
Annual programme and module monitoring reports
Graduate Destinations Survey
Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey (PTES) results
QAA Institutional Audit 2008
22.1 The following reference points were used in creating these specifications:
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QAA UK Quality Code for Higher Education
QAA Benchmarking statement/s for Masters in Business and Management 2007
School and Faculty plan
University Plan/Learning and Teaching Strategy
Staff research activities
Template last updated January 2014
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Mapping of Compulsory Modules
MSc Business Analytics
Knowledge and Understanding
Programme
Outcomes
CB997
CB969
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A1
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A2
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A3
Skills and Other Attributes
Programme
Outcomes
CB997
CB969
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B1
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B2
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B3
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B4
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B5
Subject-Specific Skills
Programme
Outcomes
CB997

C1
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C2
C3
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C4
C5
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C6
Transferable Skills
Programme
Outcomes
CB997

D1
D2
D3
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D4
D5
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D6
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D7
CB969
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CB932
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CB932
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CB9040
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CB932
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CB9035
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CB969
CB932
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CB9035
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CB9040
CB9035
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CB9035
CB986
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CB8005
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CB986
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CB8005
CB9040
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CB986
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CB8005
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CB9040
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CB986
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CB8005
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