UNIVERSITY OF BRADFORD
School of Social and International Studies
Department of Development and Economic Studies
MSc in Public Sector Management
Awarding and teaching institution:
Final award:
Programme title:
Duration:
Last updated :
University of Bradford
Postgraduate Certificate in Public Sector
Management
Postgraduate Diploma in Public Sector Management
MSc in Public Sector Management
[Framework for Higher Education Qualifications level
M]
PG Cert / PG Dip / MSc in Public Sector Management
1 year full-time (2-5 years part-time)
October 2009
Introduction
The MSc in Public Sector Management provides you with an advanced and critical
understanding of public sector governance and management, of public services and their socioeconomic context, and of the processes of change taking place within public administration.
Furthermore, you will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective work
within public sector organisations.
This degree also offers a work placement in the public sector whereby you can gain experience of
and reflect on the challenges of managing public sector organisations at the national, regional and
local levels, as well as increase your awareness of process of change taking place within the
sector. Therefore the degree offers a comprehensive programme covering public sector and
public services management, public governance and public policy, together with knowledge and
skills necessary for effective participation within public sector organisations.
The course has special relevance for public sector professionals and for those intending to work in
that sector, as well as for professionals in the private and third sectors whose work is closely
related to public policy and public administration. It is designed to be accessible to those who
combine experience with professional and/or vocational qualifications.
Many DES postgraduates show a personal commitment to the public sector and have some work
experience in related areas of public administration or the private and voluntary sectors. They
may see the degree as a means to acquire the necessary skills, knowledge and qualifications to
work in public sector management, or to develop a career closely associated to the public sector,
or even to change their career in that direction. A high proportion of DES postgraduate students
are from outside the UK, studying for a higher degree with the support of their employer. A DES
postgraduate degree course provides the knowledge and skills required for advancement to more
senior, specialist posts.
The Department of Development & Economic Studies (DES) is a multidisciplinary department
within the School of Social and International Studies. The Department’s activities include
undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, short training courses for civil servants, overseasbased consultancy, training and research. Teaching staff have academic backgrounds in different
branches of the social sciences, but they share some common areas of interest, including public
sector management, public policy, political economy, local and regional government, project and
programme management, community development and organisational change. This particular
programme is builds on considerable experience of capacity building within a range of
organisations in the public, private and third sectors. All DES courses have strong experiential
© University of Bradford
and skill-based elements, in line with the University’s mission of ‘Making Knowledge Work’, and
are designed to be relevant to contemporary issues and professions.
A.
Programme Aims
The programme aims to enable you to:
Postgraduate Certificate
A1
Develop your skills to enable you evaluate and apply theoretical concepts relevant to public
sector management, public policy and working in the public sector.
A2
Develop your autonomous learning skills for lifelong learning.
A3
Develop your personal and transferable skills in team work, communication, research and
planning
Postgraduate Diploma
A4
Equip you with the knowledge and skills critically to analyse theory, policy and practice in
the public sector.
A5
Equip you with the knowledge and skills to become a reflective and critical practitioner
MSc
A6
A7
A8
B.
Critically analyse current and emerging research and practice.
Critically appraise the nature of evidence guiding public sector management and public
policy.
Formulate and independently investigate a complex research question and communicate
your findings at an advanced level.
Programme Learning Outcomes
When you have completed the programme you will be able to:
Postgraduate Certificate
LO1. Critically evaluate theoretical concepts in public sector management and public policy.
LO2. Critically appraise the practice of public administration and of working in the public sector.
LO3. Evaluate complex information on a range of issues related to public sector management
and public policy.
LO4. Use initiative in self-directed learning, work as part of a group and construct written
argument
Postgraduate Diploma
LO5. Critically reflect on advanced theoretical concepts in public sector management and public
policy.
LO6. Critically reflect on working practices and change management in organisations
LO7. Apply originality and creative problem solving in dealing with complex issues.
MSc
LO8. Demonstrate a detailed and critical knowledge of current research and scholarship in a
specialist area of public sector management and public policy.
LO9. Identify appropriate research designs and methods for specific purposes and applications
LO10. Identify gaps and inconsistencies in the evidence base guiding policy and practice
LO11. Apply critical reasoning to the existing evidence base and scholarship
© University of Bradford
C.
The Curriculum
Postgraduate Certificate
Module Code
Module Title
Type
Credits
Level
Study period
ID-7093D
Public Sector Management 1
CORE
20
M
Semester 2
ID-7040D
Public Policy Analysis and Management
CORE
20
M
Semester 2
ID-7017D
Issues in Development Policy
OPTION
20
M
Semester 2
ID-7072D
Human Resources Management and
Development
OPTION
20
M
Semester 2
ID-7029D
Project Appraisal and Economic Analysis
OPTION
20
M
Semester 2
ID-7091D
Project Management Skills
OPTION
20
M
Semester 2
ID-7013D
Microfinance and Poverty Alleviation
OPTION
20
M
Semester 2
ID-7044D
International Economics
OPTION
20
M
Semester 2
Type
Credits
Level
Study
period
Postgraduate Diploma
Module
Code
Module Title
ID-7095D
Public Sector Management 2
CORE
20
M
Semester 1
ID-7094D
Working in the Public Sector
CORE
20
M
Semester 1
ID-7022D
Project and Programme Management
OPTION
20
M
Semester 1
ID-7071D
Public Action
OPTION
20
M
Semester 1
ID-7018D
Issues in Development Theory
OPTION
20
M
Semester 1
ID-7065D
Project Planning, Design and Appraisal
OPTION
20
M
Semester 1
ID-7015D
Economics for Development
OPTION
20
M
Semester 1
ID-7014D
Finance for Development
OPTION
20
M
Semester 1
MSc
Module
Code
ID-7060Z
Module Title
Dissertation in Public Sector Management
Type
Credits
Level
Study
period
Occ
CORE
60
M
DISS
H
The curriculum may change, subject to the University's course approval, monitoring and review
procedures.
D.
Teaching, Learning and Assessment Strategies
This course is taught from January to December, thus enabling the internship to take place during
the summer and enabling the corresponding module, Working in the Public Sector to take place
and be assessed in the May-September period. Most teaching is lecture or group-based for taught
course units, while individual supervisors provide specialist guidance during dissertation writing
(starting in May). Hence, as the course progresses, the main learning method gradually becomes
more individualised and student-centred.
You start the programme with an intensive induction week to develop your learning and personal
development planning skills and to provide an introduction to IT and library resources. Additional
group and one to one support is provided to individual students who require it. You will be
introduced to academic writing from the induction week onwards, with training in research and
analytical skills provided from then onwards as part of the preparation for writing your dissertation.
The training required for the dissertation will start at the induction weeks and continue through the
© University of Bradford
Semester 2, with dissertation supervisors allocated in early March and a research proposal of
2,500 words to be submitted by 18 June 2010. The dissertation of 10,000 - 13,000 words is to be
submitted no later than 29 April 2011.
To ensure the systematic development of knowledge of key subjects, course units are evaluated
by a variety of assessments in addition to essays and formal examinations. Group work, where
the assessment may be based on a report or a presentation, provides both team work experience
and practice in different ways of expressing arguments and information. Some modules may also
use problem-solving exercises or ask you to develop a portfolio of your work. Both assist you to
develop your skills as an independent, critical and creative learner.
E.
Assessment Regulations – Progression and Award
The full text of the Regulations Governing Postgraduate Awards is available on the web at
http://www.brad.ac.uk/admin/acsec/QA_Hbk/Postgrad_Taught_Regs.html
Masters/PgDip/PgCert Award
To be eligible for the award of a Postgraduate Certificate you must achieve at least 40.0 per cent
in individual units amounting to 40 Credits and at least 35.0 per cent in individual units amounting
to the other 20 Credits.
To be eligible for the award of the Postgraduate Diploma you must achieve at least 40.0 per cent
in individual units amounting to 100 Credits and at least 35.0 per cent in individual units amounting
to the other 20 Credits.
To be eligible for the award of the Degree of Master you must achieve at least 40.0 per cent in
individual units amounting to 160 Credits and at least 40.0 cent in individual units amounting to the
other 20 Credits.
If you achieve an overall weighted average of at least 70.0 per cent at the initial attempt, including
at least 70.0 per cent at the initial attempt in any dissertation, project or major report, you will be
eligible for the award of the Degree of Master with Distinction.
If you achieve an overall weighted average of at least 60.0 per cent, including at least 60.0 per
cent in any dissertation, project or major report, etc., you will be eligible for the award of the
Degree of Master with Merit.
F.
Admission Requirements
The University welcomes applications from all potential students regardless of their previous
academic experience; offers are made following detailed consideration of each individual
application. Most important in the decision to offer a place is our assessment of a candidate’s
potential to benefit from their studies and of their ability to succeed on this particular programme.
Entrance requirements for each programme will vary but consideration of your application will be
based on a combination of your formal academic qualifications and other relevant experience.
Evidence of your proficiency in the English language is required; the minimum requirement is
GCSE Grade C, IELTS 6.0, or the equivalent TOEFL score.
If you have prior certificated learning or professional experience which may be equivalent to parts
of this programme, the University has procedures to evaluate this learning in order to provide you
with exemptions from specified modules contained within the curriculum. Please talk to us if you
do not fit the standard pattern of entry qualifications.
The University of Bradford has always welcomed applications from disabled students, and these
will be considered on the same academic grounds as are applied to all applicants. If you have
some form of disability you may wish to contact the programme leader before you apply.
© University of Bradford
G.
Learning Resources
The Learning Support Services of the University of Bradford, comprising the Library the Computer
Centre and the Career Development Service, provide comprehensive, user-friendly facilities for
students. DES Students also have access to the School of Management Library, and to the
Development Collection in the University Library, which consists of specialist materials relating to
developing countries and international development. The University Library is a designated
European Documentation Centre, with a comprehensive coverage of EU information.
The Learner Development Unit (LDU) also provides a valuable resource for you to improve your
study skills.
H.
Student Support and Guidance:
Support for you personally and in your course of study, will be provided both by the University and
the Course Team. You will be allocated a personal tutor who is someone with whom you will be
able to talk about any academic or personal concerns. You will be provided with a comprehensive
series of handbooks that you can consult on a range of learning issues and your course tutors will
be available to consult on subject specific queries.
We value the feedback provided by students and collaborate with the Students’ Union, through a
system of course representatives and formal staff student liaison committees, so that any issues
you wish to raise are addressed rapidly.
The Students’ Union and the University of Bradford work in partnership to provide confidential
counselling and welfare services where you can get help with any aspect of your personal or
academic life. Student Financial and Information Services will provide you with information about
a diverse range of issues such as council tax, personal safety and tourist information.
International Students can access a range of additional advice and support services through the
Student’s Union.
The University's Careers Development Service exists to provide you with information, advice and
guidance to help with any aspect of your career planning. More specifically we can help you by
providing information on finding work and further study; providing advice on how to write a CV and
complete application forms and help you to prepare for interviews and be successful in getting into
your chosen career. Career Development Services also provide career and skill development
opportunities through a range of accredited career modules.
Disabled students will find a supportive environment at Bradford where we are committed to
ensuring that all aspects of student life are accessible to everyone. The Disability Service can
help by providing equipment and advice to help you get the most out of your time at Bradford and
is a place where you can discuss any concerns you may have about adjustments that you may
need, whether these relate to study, personal care or other issues. For more information contact
the Disability Service by phoning: 01274 233739 or via email: disabilities@bradford.ac.uk
I.
Education for Sustainable Development
The University of Bradford, and the School of Social and International Studies (SSIS), are
committed to the principles of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) set out in UNESCO’s
definition (see
http://www.brad.ac.uk/admin/ecoversity/what-sustainability.php
which include: interdisciplinarity; value-driven; critical thinking and problem solving; participatory
decision-making; and applied learning which is relevant and culturally appropriate to local and
other contexts.
In your programme you will find these principles underlie the teaching learning and assessment
strategies. The subject matter of this programme is focussed on public sector management as a
concept and therefore engages with debates around transparency, accountability, cultural
diversity and the responsible use of public resources. We strive to ensure that students are able
to become critical, independent thinkers who can apply knowledge and take action. In addition
there are modules in which the themes and issues of ESD are particularly exemplified, such as:
© University of Bradford



Public Sector Management 1 and 2 seeks to explore the concept of responsibility and
accountability in government and public administration, as well as cultural diversity and
the management of change.
Public Action seeks critically to explore the idea of government, third sector and private
sector working in partnerships for sustainable development.
Working in the Public Sector is a placement module in which a student works within a
public sector organisation and produces a reflective portfolio on the experience.
We are also committed in SSIS to giving you opportunities to engage in debates about the
meaning and future of Sustainable Development, as well as in the practice of ESD, for example,
through volunteering on and off campus, by taking action in a series of activities as a School.
We strive to ensure that all students are able to become critical, independent thinkers who can
apply knowledge and take action. For more information on Ecoversity activities throughout the
university see http://www.brad.ac.uk/admin/ecoversity/
J.
Further Information:
For further information, please check the University prospectus or contact Admissions.
The Admissions Office
The University of Bradford
Richmond Road
Bradford, BD7 1DP
UK
+44 (0)1274 233054
http://www.brad.ac.uk/courses/
Postgraduate Admissions Office
Development and Economic Studies
The University of Bradford
Richmond Road
Bradford, BD7 1DP
UK
+44 (0)1274 233979
http://www.brad.ac.uk/des
The contents of this programme specification may change, subject to the University's regulations
and course approval, monitoring and review procedures.
Appendix 1: Curriculum, Teaching and Assessment Map
Module
Public Sector
Management 1
Learning
Outcomes
LO 1, 2, 3, 4,
5, 8, 10, 11
Public Sector
Management 2
LO 1, 2, 3, 4,
5, 8, 10, 11
Public Policy Analysis
and Management
LO 1, 2, 3, 4,
5, 8, 10, 11
Working in the Public
Sector
LO 4, 5,6,7,8
Options
LO 4,8
Dissertation
LO 8, 9,10,11
Teaching
Assessment
Lectures/
Seminars/
Group work
Lectures/
Seminars/
Group work
Lectures/
Seminars/
Group work
Lectures/
Seminars/
Placement
70% 3,000-word essay
30% 1,000-1,500-word
seminar paper or assignment
70% 3,000-word essay
30% 1,000-1,500-word
seminar paper or assignment
80% 3000 word essay;
20% group presentation.
50% Reflective diary of
activities during placement;
50% 2,500 word project,
report or case study
Lectures/seminars/ Depends on options selected
group- work/workbased learning
Group
25% 2500 word Research
lectures/seminars
Proposal
Individual
75% 10-13000 word
supervision
Dissertation
© University of Bradford
Appendix 2
Descriptors for core modules
Module Title: Public Sector Management 1
Module Type:
Standard module
Academic Year:
2009/0
Module Code:
ID-
Module Occurrence:
A
Module Credit:
20
Teaching Period:
Semester 2
Level:
M (Postgraduate Masters)
Provider: Department of Development and Economic Studies
Related Department / Subject Area: ID
Principal Co-ordinator: Dr Roberto Espíndola (RE)
Additional Tutors: Dr John Lawler (JL)
Aims:
To develop an advanced and critical understanding of the public sector, public services, public
governance and public policy at the national and local levels. To develop knowledge and skills
necessary for effective participation within public sector organisations.
Learning Teaching & Assessment Strategy:
The module is based on critical learning with lectures to develop key concepts, theories and to
identify issues in policy and practice, coupled with seminars presented by external practitioners to
illustrate the practical application of those concepts, theories and issues. Seminar presentations,
practical exercises and coursework papers/essays offer students the opportunity to apply those
concepts to specific case studies, to work in a group to develop and present information and
argument, as well as opportunities for formative assessment and feedback, peer review and
discussion of the changing nature of public services, public policy and public governance.
Summative assessment in the form of an essay allows students to research, develop,
demonstrate and critique knowledge related to the current key issues in public sector
management, and related to governance and policy within public sector organisations and their
social context.
Study Hours:
Directed
170
Study:
Formal
Seminars/Tutorials: 15.00
0.00
Exams:
Laboratory/Practical: 0.00 Other: 0.00 Total: 200
Lectures:
15.00
Learning Outcomes:
1. Knowledge & Understanding
On successful completion of this module you will be able to analyse the current key issues in the
management of the public sector and understand the changing nature of public services and
public governance
2. Subject-Specific Skills
On successful completion of this module you will be able to apply that analysis and reflect critically
© University of Bradford
on governance and policy within public sector organisations and their social context
3. Personal Transferable Skills
On successful completion of this module you will be able to work in a group to develop and
present information and informed argument, conduct research and communicate your ideas
clearly using written, electronic and oral means.
Mode of Assessment:
1 Assessment Type Duration (hours) Percentage
Coursework
-
30%
Description
One `1,000-1,500 word seminar paper or assignment
2 Assessment Type Duration (hours) Percentage
Coursework
-
70%
Description
One 3,000 word essay
Supplementary Assessment:
As Above
(Note: 'As Original' indicates that Supplementary Assessment will take the same form as the
Mode(s) of Assessment).
Outline Syllabus:
1.
What is the Public Sector? The public sector in the UK and in comparative perspective
within the EU. The politics of the public sector. Public administration, public management and
public governance.
2.
Who makes policy in the UK? Changing patterns of governance: regulation, de-regulation,
re-regulation in the UK. Privatisation and public-private partnerships.
3.
How do socio-economic problems become policy problems? Case studies of problem
definition
4.
Transparency and accountability in public administration across Europe
5.
Local government and local development. Case study: Walsall Council – from ‘worst
council in the UK’ to star performer
6.
Local government, democratic engagement and the community
7.
Public service at the local level: the customers’ experience
8.
Working with clients and stakeholders. A practical exercise on local public services:
briefing participants
9.
A practical exercise on local public services: reporting back
10.
Participatory governance and public policy
Basic reading list

Christensen, T (2007) Transcending New Public Management: The Transformation of
Public Sector Reforms Ashgate

Bovaird, T and E Löffler (2009) Public Management and Governance London: Routledge

Ferlie, E, L E Lynn and C Pollitt, eds. (2005) The Oxford Handbook of Public Management
© University of Bradford
Oxford: Oxford University Press

Flynn, N. (2007) Public Sector Management London: Sage

Greenwood, J, R Pyper and D Wilson (2002) New Public Administration in Britain London:
Routledge

Hughes, O E (2003) Public Management and Administration London: Palgrave Macmillan

Lynn, L E (2006) Public Management Old and New London: Routledge

Pollitt, C, and G Bouckaert (2004) Public Management Reform: A Comparative Analysis
Oxford: Oxford University Press

Pollitt, C (2003) The Essential Public Manager Open University Press

Pyper, R and A Massey (2005) Public Management and Modernisation in Britain London:
Palgrave Macmillan

Rhodes, R A W, P Carmichael, J Macmillan and A Massey (2003) Decentralizing The Civil
Service: From Unitary State to Differentiated Polity in the United Kingdom Open University
Press
© University of Bradford
Module Title: Public Sector Management 2
Module Type:
Standard module
Academic Year:
2009/0
Module Code:
ID-
Module Occurrence:
A
Module Credit:
20
Teaching Period:
Semester 1
Level:
M (Postgraduate Masters)
Provider: Department of Development and Economic Studies
Related Department / Subject Area: ID
Principal Co-ordinator: Dr John Lawler
Additional Tutors: Dr Roberto Espíndola
Aims:
To develop a critical understanding of the changing strategy and policy context within the public
sector. To develop knowledge and skills necessary for effective leadership, management and
change in public sector organisations.
Learning Teaching & Assessment Strategy:
The module is based on critical learning with lectures to develop key concepts, theories and to
identify issues in policy and practice, coupled with seminars presented by external practitioners to
illustrate the practical application of those concepts, theories and issues. Seminar presentations
and coursework papers/essays offer students the opportunity to apply those concepts to specific
case studies, to work in a group to develop and present information and argument, as well as
opportunities for formative assessment and feedback, peer review and discussion of change and
opposition to change. Summative assessment in the form of an essay allows students to research,
develop, demonstrate and critique knowledge related to change management in the public sector,
to discuss services and organisations within the public sector, and to reflect critically on the effects
of leadership and management on performance.
Study Hours:
Directed
170
Study:
Formal
Seminars/Tutorials: 15.00
0.00
Exams:
Laboratory/Practical: 0.00 Other: 0.00 Total: 200
Lectures:
15.00
Learning Outcomes:
1. Knowledge & Understanding
On successful completion of this module you will be able to analyse critically approaches to
change and change management in the public sector, and to discuss services and organisations
within local and wider contexts of the public sector.
2. Subject-Specific Skills
On successful completion of this module you will be able to apply that analysis, to reflect critically
on leadership, management and change within organisations and to apply learning to enhance
performance
3. Personal Transferable Skills
© University of Bradford
On successful completion of this module you will be able to evaluate potential sources of
opposition to change and strategies which can be used to manage them, as well as work in a
group to develop and present information and argument, to conduct research and communicate
your ideas clearly using written, electronic and oral means..
Mode of Assessment:
1 Assessment Type Duration (hours) Percentage
Coursework
-
30%
Description
One `1,000-1,500 word seminar paper or assignment
2 Assessment Type Duration (hours) Percentage
Coursework
-
70%
Description
One 3,000 word essay
Supplementary Assessment:
As Above
(Note: 'As Original' indicates that Supplementary Assessment will take the same form as the
Mode(s) of Assessment).
Outline Syllabus:
1.
The reform of the public sector: from New Public Management to Modernisation. Public
sector reform and restructuring. How have reforms worked in other EU countries?
2.
Civil Service reform in comparative perspective within the EU
3.
Technology, globalisation and labour markets: effects on public sector reform within the EU
4.
Change and how to manage it. Change and organisations. Diagnosis & models of change
5.
Planning, implementing and evaluating change. Individual reactions to change, individual
preferences
6.
Leadership and management. Models and approaches. Ethical issues for leadership in the
public sector
7.
Developing and leading teams. Leadership development and leadership skills. Assessing
own management and leadership skills and practice.
8.
Human resource management and development in the Public Sector
9.
Strategic Management and Performance Measurement
Basic reading list
 Doherty, TL (1999) Managing public services : implementing changes: a thoughtful
approach to the practice of management Routledge.

Dym, B (2005) Leadership in non-profit organizations Sage.

Ferlie, E (1996) The new public management in action Oxford University Press

Flynn, N (2007) Public Sector Management London: Sage

Goodwin, N (2006) Leadership in healthcare: a European perspective Routledge

Hafford-Letchfield, T (2008) Leadership and management in social care Sage
© University of Bradford

Lawler, J and A Bilson (2010) Social Work Management and Leadership Abingdon:
Routledge.

Lawton, A (1998) Ethical management for the public services Open University Press

McKevitt, D and A Lawton, eds. (1994) Public sector management

Naschold, F (1996) New frontiers in public sector management : trends and issues in state
and local government in Europe De Gruyter & Co

Nutley, S and Osborne, S P (1994) Public sector management handbook Prentice Hall

Osborne, S P (1996) Managing in the voluntary sector: a handbook for managers in
charitable and non-profit organizations International Thomson Business Press

Osborne, S P (1998) Voluntary organizations and innovation in public services Routledge.

Pollitt, C (2003) The Essential Public Manager Open University Press
Module Title: Working in the Public Sector
Module
Type:
Standard module
Academic
Year:
2009/0
Module
Code:
ID-
Module
Occurrence:
A
Module
Credit:
20
Teaching
Period:
Semester 2
Level:
M (Postgraduate
Masters)
Provider: Department of Development and Economic Studies
Related Department / Subject Area: ID
Principal Co-ordinator: Dr Roberto Espíndola
Additional Tutors: Dr John Lawler
Prerequisite(s): None
Corequisite(s): None
Aims:
To enable you to engage in a structured and reflective period of voluntary work in the public
sector, so that you increase your awareness of process of change taking place within that sector.
To gain experience of and reflect on the challenges of managing public sector organisations at the
national, regional and local levels.
Learning Teaching & Assessment Strategy:
Workshops will be used to outline key concepts, to illustrate policy and practice, and develop
specific skills. Written assessment will be used to assess your abilities, critically to reflect on a
period of observation and activity (at least 140 hours) and to apply concepts and practice. The
diary would include a descriptive section of sufficient detail to illustrate the internship and its
© University of Bradford
context, your own learning and personal development, your work as a part of a team, the
application of relevant academic themes/literature, and references and comment to demonstrate
an understanding of critical reflection. The coursework will consist of a project, case study or
report undertaken as part of the internship demonstrating your understanding of relevant
academic themes/literature, and the interaction between theory and practice in the management
of public sector organisations.
Study Hours:
Directed
48.00
Study:
Formal
Seminars/Tutorials: 12.00
0.00
Exams:
Laboratory/Practical: 0.00 Other:
140.00 Total: 200
Lectures:
0.00
Learning Outcomes:
1. Knowledge & Understanding
On successful completion of this module you will be able to evaluate critically the public sector’s
contribution to society, and to assess processes of change taking place within public services.
2. Subject-Specific Skills
On successful completion of this module you will be able to reflect on the interaction between
theory and practice in the management of public sector organisations.
3. Personal Transferable Skills
On successful completion of this module you will be able to reflect critically on your own learning
and personal development, and to work as a part of a team.
Mode of Assessment:
1 Assessment Type Duration (hours) Percentage
Reflective diary
-
50%
Description
Reflective diary covering the period of internship
2 Assessment Type Duration (hours) Percentage
Coursework
-
50%
Description
1 x 2,500 word project, report or case study
Supplementary Assessment:
As Above
(Note: 'As Original' indicates that Supplementary Assessment will take the same form as the
Mode(s) of Assessment).
Outline Syllabus:
Principles underpinning work in the public sector, including equal opportunities, ethics, cultural
values, democracy, anti-discriminatory practices, power and powerlessness, confidentiality.
© University of Bradford
Defining the policy environment and public services development. Critical reflective practice. How
to present yourself to public sector employers: writing CVs, how to interview and be interviewed.
Basic reading list

Bolton, G E J (2005) Reflective Practice: Writing and Professional Development Sage

Cryer, P (2006) The Research Student’s Guide to Success Maidenhead: Open University
Press

Ferlie, E, L E Lynn and C Pollit, eds. (2007) The Oxford Handbook of Public Management
Oxford: Oxford University Press

Gaster, L and A Squires (2003) Providing Quality in the Public Sector: A Practical Approach
to Improving Public Services Open University Press

Pollitt, C (2003) The Essential Public Manager Open University Press

Stevens, D D and J E Cooper (2007) Journal Keeping: How to Use Reflective Journals for
Effective Teaching and Learning, Professional Insight, and Positive Change Stylus
Module Title: Dissertation in Public Sector Management
Module
Type:
Dissertation
Academic Year: 2010/1
Module
Code:
ID-7060Z
Module
Occurrence:
H
Module
Credit:
60
Teaching
Period:
Dissertation
Level:
M (Masters)
Provider: Department of Development and Economic Studies
Related Department / Subject Area:
Principal Co-ordinator: Dr Behrooz Morvaridi
Additional Tutors: Dr Roberto Espíndola and Dr John Lawler
Prerequisite(s): None
Corequisite(s): None
Aims:
This module aims to enables you to develop advanced critical and reflective understanding of the
process of planning and managing a research project relevant to Public Sector Management. You
will undertake and complete a substantial individual research study and produce a dissertation to
Masters degree level on a topic relevant to your degree.
Learning Teaching & Assessment Strategy:
Lectures are used to outline key concepts in research methods and practice and will provide a
forum for discussion and group work, led by students but supported by academic staff.
Opportunities for further discussion will be provided through Blackboard. Written assessment will
be used to assess your abilities to critical analyse and apply concepts and practice as well as to
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formulate and undertake a research study. You will also make a brief individual presentation to the
group outlining your research proposal. You will undertake a substantial independent research
study that is relevant to your degree. You will be allocated an individual supervisor who will
provide support and guidance during the production of the dissertation, through face-to-face
meetings and e-mail.
Study Hours:
Directed
Study:
Formal
Seminars/Tutorials: 16.00
Exams:
Laboratory/Practical: 0.00 Other:
Lectures:
10.00
574.00
0.00
0.00
Total: 600
Learning Outcomes:
1. Knowledge & Understanding
On successful completion of this module you will be able to evaluate and apply different research
methods and concepts to generate original insights. Critically analyse and investigate a research
problem in a Public Sector Management
2. Subject-Specific Skills
On successful completion of this module you will be able to assess and integrate the ethical
dimensions of conducting research in a research project. Generate and execute a research plan.
3. Personal Transferable Skills
On successful completion of this module you will be able to evaluate and organise complex
information for effective communication
Mode of Assessment:
1 Assessment Type
Coursework
Duration (hours)
Percentage
-
20%
Description
A research proposal of 2,500 words to be submitted by 18 June 2010
2 Assessment Type
Dissertation or Project Report
Duration (hours)
Percentage
-
80%
Description
A dissertation of 10,000 - 13,000 words to be submitted no later than 29 April 2011
Supplementary Assessment:
As Original
(Note: 'As Original' indicates that Supplementary Assessment will take the same form as the Mode(s) of Assessment).
Outline Syllabus:
Academic writing - critical analysis, academic styles. Literature review, citation, referencing,
avoiding plagiarism. Information searching and management; synthesis and analysis. Writing a
research proposal, managing a research project, critical literature reviewing, intensive and
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extensive research methods, reflective practice, research ethics and communication, analytical
and academic writing. Writing a critical and analytical dissertation which answers a specific
research question.
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