scu.edu.au/business-school It’s all about U CRICOS Provider: NSW 01241G, QLD 03135E, WA 02621K BUSINESS & INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY POSTGRADUATE COURSE GUIDE 2013 SOUTHERN CROSS UNIVERSITYBUSINESS & INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY · Business Administration (DBA and MBA) · Human Resources and Organisational Development · Information Technology · International Sport Management · Professional Accounting scu.edu.au | Southern Cross Business School The Southern Cross Business School offers a comprehensive suite of business, management and information technology postgraduate degrees that are informed by research, reviewed by industry leaders and taught by experts. The School’s degrees are designed to open doors anywhere in the world, have excellent graduate outcomes* and are taught not just in Australia, but through collaborating institutions in Asia and the Pacifi c. The School is committed to excellence in teaching and offers courses that are tailored to meet industry demands. They combine academic rigour with contemporary industry practice, giving students the skills to succeed and lead in complex business environments. With postgraduate courses offered on-campus or by distance education, students can study in the freedom of their home, workplace, or wherever else they have internet access. With three teaching sessions each year, most of the School’s Masters degrees can be completed in just one calendar year. *Hobsons’ The Good Universities Guide to MBA and Management Courses 2012 awarded Southern Cross University’s MBA and Management courses a maximum of 5 stars for Getting a Job and 4 stars for Graduate Salary. Page 2 SOUTHERN CROSS BUSINESS SCHOOL ABOUT SOUTHERN CROSS UNIVERSITY Southern Cross University is a vibrant, contemporary Australian university offering a range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees on-campus and by distance education. Postgraduate degrees by coursework are available in disciplines including health and human sciences, environmental, marine and forest science, tourism, education and social sciences. The Southern Cross Business School delivers the Master and Doctor of Business Administration, and other postgraduate degrees in accounting, sport management, human resources and information technology. Research degrees are available in arts, business, law, science and education. Students undertake an independent research project which is sent out for external and independent examination. The students are supported through the Research Training Unit and can enrol at any time. The University’s research is undertaken in areas that are regionally relevant and globally significant, in disciplines as diverse as environmental science, plant science, geoscience, forestry, gambling research, marine science, business, education and tourism. Located on the east coast of Australia, in a region renowned for its natural beauty, the University has campuses at the Gold Coast, Lismore and Coffs Harbour, where it also operates the National Marine Science Centre. The Centre operates a survey and research vessel and includes a flow-through seawater system that supplies laboratories, a tank farm, aquarium and hatchery. Many postgraduate courses are available by distance education, providing flexible study options for those who are juggling work, study and other commitments. Explore our full range of postgraduate course offerings at scu.edu.au/courses Page 3 Doctor of Business Administration | scu.edu.au About this course The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is a coursework and research-based management degree. It is designed for experienced professionals who would like to improve their professional practice and solve problems through research. Postgraduate units provide a solid theoretical background and training in research design and methodology. All components of the course, including the thesis component, can be related to a specifi c workplace or industry, enabling graduates to make a signifi cant contribution to their profession. Major areas of study Candidates develop their own research topic, aligned with the Southern Cross Business School’s research objectives, in consultation with their approved supervisors and the DBA Director. The DBA has three stages of study: Stage 1: Postgraduate units (4 units) provide a solid theoretical background and are designed to build on a candidate’s professional expertise by exposing them to the leading ideas in their fi eld. Stage 2: In the research training stage (4 units) candidates develop their research proposal and complete a literature review. Stage 3: The thesis (16 units) consists of an approved program of supervised research. Typically a thesis reviews relevant literature and presents the theoretical framework underpinning a candidate’s research. It outlines the research design and methodology, describes the data collection, analyses data, interprets results and discusses conclusions and implications. Teaching methods Stages 1 and 2: DBA candidates receive a comprehensive study materials package for each unit. This includes a prescribed textbook and a package of printed study materials. In addition to class (face-to-face or online) participation and printed study materials, candidates have access to dedicated unit websites. Face-to-face and online classes are not compulsory for those studying by distance education. Stage 3: During the thesis component, each research candidate works directly with their supervisors on their research project and is required to present the outcomes of their research at the regular DBA symposia. Doctoral symposia At least twice a year candidates meet at a structured doctoral symposium at the Gold Coast campus or at an offshore location. The symposia provide wonderful opportunities to meet other candidates, compare progress, explore different research methodologies, receive advice from experts, confi rm examination requirements and network with business leaders. Candidates must attend at least one symposium each year. Assessment methods Stage 1: Incorporates progressive assessment and examinations. Candidates are assessed in each unit on the basis of written and oral assignments. These may be business reports, case studies, presentations, research studies and /or plans. Full details of assignments are contained in the study guide for each unit. Stage 2: Units are assessed based on the completion of required assignments, including a detailed research proposal and comprehensive literature review. Stage 3: The University’s Higher Degrees by Research Committee oversees DBA thesis examination. It requires the thesis to be examined by two independent and internationally recognised experts in the relevant fi eld of research. The DBA is emerging globally as the pinnacle in business qualifications with some graduates attaining senior roles in corporations and governments. The Southern Cross University DBA is one of the largest in Australia in terms of overall candidates and graduates and attracts participants from across the Asia-Pacific region. Career opportunities DOCTOR OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (DBA) Location and intake: Gold Coast: Trimester A, B and C; Distance education: Trimester A, B and C Duration: 3 years full-time, 6 years part-time About this course This course is a structured pathway that provides a 12-unit MBA or a 16-unit MBA (Advanced). The MBA develops the business knowledge and practical skills to help graduates advance their careers in today’s competitive global markets. Students gain a broad understanding of contemporary management operations and learn industry-relevant skills and solutions to complex business situations. Professional experience is enhanced through practical assessment activities in leadership, problem solving and communication skills. The MBA provides the option to study broadly across a comprehensive suite of business disciplines and the opportunity to specialise.To extend their MBA, students can study an MBA (Advanced), which offers further diversifi cation, or a second specialisation. The MBA (Advanced) also enables students to add a signifi cant research component to their MBA. Major areas of study Students will study six core units and select six or 10 elective units, depending on whether they study the MBA or MBA (Advanced). Core units • Foundations of Management • Leading and Managing People • Strategic Management • Accounting and Finance • Marketing Management • Strategic Information Systems Electives The following study areas contain several electives for students to build substantial and specialised expertise to complement the general management applications offered in the core units. • Accounting and Finance for Managers • Entrepreneurship and New Venture Creation • Human Resource Management • Information Systems • International Sports Management • Marketing • Tourism • Research Methods and Projects. Early exit points: Subject to successful completion of the required units. • Graduate Diploma in Business Administration • Graduate Certifi cate in Business Administration scu.edu.au | Master of Business Administration The MBA equips graduates for managerial roles across a broad spectrum of industries in the public and private sectors in business, finance, accounting, marketing, operations, human resource management, sport management and corporate sustainability. Career opportunities Page 4 Location and intake: Gold Coast: Trimester A, B and C; Distance education: Trimester A, B and C Duration: Master: 1 year full-time (based on 4 units per trimester), 2 years part-time MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (MBA) MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (ADVANCED) GRADUATE DIPLOMA IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION GRADUATE CERTIFICATE IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION Page 5 Master of Human Resources and Organisational Development | Master of Professional Accounting | scu.edu.au About this course The Master of Human Resources and Organisational Development (MHROD) is designed to provide specialist knowledge in the areas of strategic human resource management and development, organisational development and change, industrial relations, leadership and people management, organisational behaviour and international human resource management. The course builds on current experience and skills to assist graduates with managing complex issues that arise in human resources and organisational development. Professional recognition The Master, Graduate Diploma and Graduate Certifi cate are all accredited by the Australian Human Resources Institute (AHRI). Major areas of study Students will study six core units and six electives. Core units • Organisational Change and Development • Human Resource Development • Human Resource Management • International and Comparative Human Resource Management • Organisational Behaviour • Leading and Managing People. Electives Students select six electives from HR specifi c and general management study areas. They also have the option of conducting a work related research project. Early exit points: Subject to successful completion of the required units. • Graduate Diploma of Human Resources and Organisational Development • Graduate Certifi cate of Human Resources and Organisational Development The MHROD provides HR practitioners and line managers with a professionally recognised qualifi cation and also supports the learning of those looking to embark on a HR career. Career opportunities Location and intake: Distance education: Trimester A, B and C Duration: Master: 1 year full-time (based on 4 units per trimester), 2 years part-time MASTER OF HUMAN RESOURCES AND ORGANISATIONAL DEVELOPMENT GRADUATE DIPLOMA OF HUMAN RESOURCES AND ORGANISATIONAL DEVELOPMENT GRADUATE CERTIFICATE OF HUMAN RESOURCES AND ORGANISATIONAL DEVELOPMENT About this course The Master of Professional Accounting (MPA) is designed for non-accounting business professionals seeking a career change and planning to move into the fi elds of accounting, taxation, economics, law and management. The course is designed to enhance a student’s ability to manage complex accounting and business issues. For those already working in the accounting and fi nance industry, the MPA can formalise their skills. Professional placement The Master of Professional Accounting is accredited by, or makes graduates eligible to apply for admission to, the following professional bodies: • Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia (ICAA)* • CPA Australia* • Institute of Public Accountants (IPA)^ • Hong Kong Institute of Chartered Public Accountants* * Accredited by ^ Eligible to apply for admission Major areas of study Areas of study include: • Accounting • Taxation • Economics • Law • Management. Early exit points: Subject to successful completion of the required units. • Graduate Diploma in Accounting • Graduate Certifi cate in Accounting Studying the MPA is a strategic career move, which could open career opportunities in a range of industries. Graduates have the ability to solve problems, liaise with clients and manage people, departments and organisations. Career opportunities Location and intake: Gold Coast: Trimester A, B and C; Distance education: Trimester A, B and C Duration: Master: 2 years full-time*, 4 years part-time* *May be completed in a shorter duration subject to unit availability. MASTER OF PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTING GRADUATE DIPLOMA IN ACCOUNTING GRADUATE CERTIFICATE IN ACCOUNTING About this course This degree has been tailored to meet the needs of people engaged in the professional sport business environment. On completion, graduates will be well equipped with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to operate in the global sport industry. The course is delivered entirely online (including all course notes, readings and, where available, access to ebooks) with no requirement to attend lectures. The course enables students to build professional and study networks online with fellow candidates throughout Australia and overseas. Professional recognition Graduates are eligible for admission as an Associate of the Institute of Sport Management upon gaining employment in the sport and leisure industry. Major areas of study Areas of study include: • Sport Governance • Managing International Sport Projects • Sport Marketing in the Global Marketplace • Sport Promotions in the Global Marketplace • Managing International Sport Events • International Sport Business • Sponsorship in the Global Marketplace • Sport Facility Management • Sports Law • Industry Based Project • Business Research Methods • Research Project. Teaching methods The distance education study option is highly interactive and the online study environment strives to promote collaboration and a sense of community. Web-based technologies are used to deliver lectures online and in real time, combined with discussion forums that provide candidates with the opportunity to engage with teaching staff and other students. Lectures are recorded, enabling students to download them at a time and place that suits – in their home, workplace, or even overseas. Students also have access to a dedicated online learning site for each unit and access to library services including online full-text business journal databases. The research component of the course is undertaken under appropriate academic supervision. This is tailored to meet the needs of individual students. Early exit points: Subject to successful completion of the required units. • Graduate Diploma in International Sport Management • Graduate Certifi cate in International Sport Management scu.edu.au | Master of International Sport Management Graduates of the Master of International Sport Management are employed as key decision makers in senior management positions in international and national sporting associations, government sporting agencies, sport and recreation authorities, professional sport associations and the sport, leisure and tourism industry in both the private and public sectors. There are also self-employed graduates who provide marketing and other consultancy to these bodies. Career opportunities Page 6 Location and intake: Distance education: Trimester A, B and C Duration: Master: 1 year full-time (based on 4 units per trimester), 2 years part-time MASTER OF INTERNATIONAL SPORT MANAGEMENT GRADUATE DIPLOMA IN INTERNATIONAL SPORT MANAGEMENT GRADUATE CERTIFICATE IN INTERNATIONAL SPORT MANAGEMENT Page 7 Graduate Diploma in Information Technology | scu.edu.au About this course The Graduate Diploma in Information Technology provides a pathway for Bachelor level graduates, from areas other than computing, to gain a qualifi cation in information and communications technology (ICT). This course equips students with the required skills to enter the ICT industry and is designed to be the equivalent of an ICT major in an Australian Bachelor degree. Professional recognition This course is accredited by the Australian Computer Society. Major areas of study Core subjects of the Graduate Diploma in Information Technology: • Applications Development • Web Development (1) • Principles of Programming • Systems Analysis and Design. Students also have the opportunity to study other ICT subjects of their interest as electives. Assessment methods Assessment may be in the form of essays, reports, audio or video presentations, online quizzes, case analyses or problem resolutions, software programs and examinations. Teaching methods Units are taught on-campus with interactive online sessions, tutorials, and computer laboratory sessions. Extensive study materials and internet-based study support systems are provided for students who study by distance education. Information technology graduates may gain employment in both the public and private sectors. Some graduates choose to start their own enterprise after completing the course. Career opportunities GRADUATE DIPLOMA IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Location and intake: Coffs Harbour: Session 1 and 2; Distance education: Session 1 and 2 Duration: 1 year full-time, 2 years part-time This brochure is a guide to Southern Cross University and the postgraduate studies offered by the University. The information set out in this brochure is an expression of intent only and should not be taken as a fi rm offer or undertaking. The information contained in this brochure is correct at time of printing and the University reserves the right to make alterations to any information contained within this publication without notice. Copyright Southern Cross University June 2012. SCU4087 CRICOS Provider: NSW 01241G, QLD 03135E, WA 02621K SOUTHERN CROSS UNIVERSITYBUSINESS & INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Teaching methods The distance education study option for these courses is highly interactive and strives to promote collaboration and a sense of community. In addition to texts, readings and study guides, students have access to library services, receive a combination of podcast or video-linked lectures, electronic study materials and will be invited to participate in online workshops, online discussion forums and virtual classes. The method of teaching may vary from unit to unit. Postgraduate courses offered on-campus at the Gold Coast are designed to maximise learning opportunities and ensure students receive individual attention from their lecturers. Classes are run weekly and are normally of three hours’ duration. On-campus students have unlimited internet and email access and can connect to the University’s library catalogues, online full-text journal databases and online book and article request service. For teaching methods of the Graduate Diploma in Information Technology, Master of International Sport Management and the Doctor of Business Administration, refer to the courses. Assessment methods These courses incorporate progressive assessment and examinations. Students are assessed in each unit on the basis of written and oral assignments. These may be business reports, case studies, presentations, research studies and /or plans. For assessment methods of the Doctor of Business Administration and the Graduate Diploma in Information Technology refer to the course. Teaching calendar Southern Cross University offers multiple study periods across the year. Depending on the course students choose, they will either study across three sessions (the third of which overlaps the new year) or trimesters in a calendar year. Sessions start in February, June and October and trimesters start in January, May and September. All of the Southern Cross Business School Masters courses are offered across trimesters, which means students can complete a 12-unit Masters degree in just one calendar year. For dates, see our teaching calendar at scu.edu.au/teachingcalendar Learning resources In addition to the support of experienced academic staff and student support personnel, students are provided with high quality study materials including unit information documents, study guides, books of readings and textbooks. MySCU is a student’s point of entry to a range of online services and resources that support study and student life. The portal includes unit learning sites and information sites where students can access resources, communication tools and useful links that are integral to their studies. The web-based program Blackboard Collaborate delivers advanced on-line learning environments for students and lecturers to communicate and collaborate through virtual meeting spaces and classrooms. They can share fi les, presentations and applications. If the session is recorded, students can view it afterwards. The SCU library provides a wide range of services including librarian assistance, print and electronic resources, a document delivery service, catalogues, databases, ebooks, ereadings and full-text journal literature. Apply online direct to the University Visit: scu.edu.au/howtoapply T: 1800 626 481 E: enquiry@scu.edu.au Your previous study Your previous study may help you cut time off your degree. Advanced standing may be granted to those who have successfully completed study that is equivalent in content, standard, duration and recency, to units offered in their chosen course. Advanced standing is not normally granted for the Graduate Diploma in Information Technology. However, based on their previous study or work experience, students may apply to have a unit substituted with another appropriate unit. The University recommends that you apply for advanced standing at the same time as you apply for admission, because the amount and type of credit awarded will determine your study plan. For more information visit: scu.edu.au/advancedstanding International applicants Southern Cross University welcomes applications from international students. However this brochure is intended for use by Australian citizens and permanent residents only and should not be relied upon by international students. Brochures and information specifi cally for international students can be obtained from the University’s International Offi ce and website: scu.edu.au/international Further information Freecall: 1800 626 481 E: enquiry@scu.edu.au For further course information visit: scu.edu.au/courses HOW TO APPLY . scu.edu.au /business- school It’s all about U CRICOS Provider: NSW 01241G, QLD 03135E, WA 02621K BUSINESS & INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY POSTGRADUATE COURSE GUIDE 2013 SOUTHERN. range of postgraduate course offerings at scu.edu.au/courses Page 3 Doctor of Business Administration | scu.edu.au About this course The Doctor of Business