Staffordshire Business School

TO SUCCEED

STAFFORDSHIRE BUSINESS SCHOOL UNDERGRADUATE COURSE GUIDE 2021

CONTENTS

Welcome To Staffordshire Business School

An Award-Winning Institution

Part Of A Great University

Staffordshire Business School

Our Unique Learning Experience

Application Journey

Ways To Join Us

A Catalyst For Change

Making Business Your Home

The Heart Of Business

The Students’ Union

Work Hard Play Hard

Working While You Study

Student Support Networks

Your Future Careers

Healthy Body Healthy Mind

The Cost Of Success

UCAS Points And What They Mean

Higher And Degree Apprenticeships

Important Information

OUR COURSES

BA (Hons) Finance And Business Enterprise

BA (Hons) Business Management And Sustainability

BA (Hons) Business Innovation And Entrepreneurship

BA (Hons) Digital And Social Media Marketing

Foundation Year Study

Optional Modules

Visitor Attraction And Resort Management

Notes

Open Days

The contents of this guide are correct at the time of going to press. However, please check our website www.staffs.ac.uk before making an application in case there are any changes to the subject area or course you are interested in, or to the other facilities and services described here. Where there is a difference between the content of this guide and our website, the content of the website take precedence and represent the basis on which we intend to deliver our services to you.

WELCOME TO STAFFORDSHIRE BUSINESS SCHOOL It is with great pleasure that I invite you to become a part of the innovation-led change at Staffordshire Business School. For over 100 years, our institution has pioneered new and exciting courses aligned with new and emerging industries, and there’s never been a more exciting time to join us than right now. As the pace of business evolution picks up in the 21st Century, our course design has raised the bar to ensure we stay ahead of the curve. In this prospectus, you’ll find out all about our brandnew ‘immersive learning’ teaching method that has helped to streamline our courses and align them with the needs of industry. So, when you graduate, you’ll have a knowledge of yesterday’s business, be an expert in today’s, and be prepared for the business of tomorrow.

“BE A PART OF THE EVOLUTION OF STAFFORDSHIRE BUSINESS SCHOOL.”

We are excited to announce that at the start of 2022, the new home of Staffordshire Business School will be ready for us to move in, and as future students, we welcome you to come and explore the £40m Catalyst building’s state-of-the-art teaching spaces and digital facilities with us for the very first time. There are more great things on the horizon that we’d love to share with you as the business professionals of tomorrow too – like our plans in 2021 to become the founding academic partner within the Centre of Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship, which will take you closer than ever to working businesses and influential stakeholders during your time at the University. Whatever you’re looking to achieve in your business career, we can give you the tools, the knowledge and the experience to make it happen – find out more about what we can offer you at one of our many Open Days throughout the year where you can chat about your future with myself and other experts in business.

Be a part of the evolution of Staffordshire Business School.

Angela Lawrence Associate Dean of Staffordshire Business School

AN AWARDWINNING INSTITUTION

RATED GOLD

SHORTLISTED FOR

Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF)

Times Higher Education Awards 2020

TOP 15

The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2021

TOP 250

MIDLANDS UNIVERSITY OF THE YEAR

FOR TEACHING EXCELLENCE

FOR SOCIAL INCLUSION

YOUNG UNIVERSITY Times Higher Education Young University Rankings 2020

UNIVERSITY OF THE YEAR

FOR TEACHING QUALITY

Midlands Business Awards 2020

WHERE ENTERPRISE MEETS EDUCATION Small Business Charter Award 2020

Discover what makes us an award-winning University

TEACHING EXCELLENCE FRAMEWORK

THE TIMES AND THE SUNDAY TIMES GOOD UNIVERSITY GUIDE

The Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) is a system that assesses the quality of teaching in universities in England. It also includes some universities from Scotland and Wales. Universities are classified gold, silver or bronze. These ratings are determined by teaching, academic support and progression to employment.

As well as institutional rankings, The Sunday Times and The Times have identified the centres of excellence within each of 67 subject areas. The subject rankings are based on student opinion and their wider university experiences, combined with the outcomes of the 2014 research assessments, graduate job prospects and course entry standards.

SMALL BUSINESS CHARTER

TIMES HIGHER EDUCATION AWARDS 2020

MIDLANDS BUSINESS AWARDS 2020

The Small Business Charter (SBC) is an award for the UK’s world-class business schools. The SBC award celebrates business schools that play an effective role in supporting small businesses, local economies and student entrepreneurship.

The Times Higher Education Awards recognise the outstanding work across a wide range of university activities, including both academic and professional services. The specific category for University of the Year takes into account the exceptional performance of an institution in regards to research, teaching, access, leadership development and business performance.

The Midlands Business Awards is a regional awarding body that celebrates the finest business talent the Midlands has to offer. From manufacturers and service providers to universities and young entrepreneurs, they recognise the best business minds over 13 different categories.

WHAT DO OUR ACCOLADES MEAN? Staffordshire University is an award-winning institution, and we are proud to share our accolades with current and prospective students. Our accolades are from various different credible and respectable sources within the UK and have been achieved through the work of a collaboration of schools within the University, including Staffordshire Business School.

PART OF A GREAT UNIVERSITY Getting your head around where Staffordshire Business School fits into Staffordshire University can be a little confusing. But don’t worry, it’s really quite straightforward!

STAFFORDSHIRE UNIVERSITY

Staffordshire Business School

Staffordshire University is made up of five academic schools that contribute to the unique learning experience on offer at the institution. Each school manages a specialist set of courses and subjects, ensuring they have the latest in facilities, course materials and networking opportunities.

School of Digital, Technologies and Arts

All academic schools contribute equally, sharing facilities and connections that form the wider University. This brings a great advantage to you as a student, as you’ll have access to other equipment and networking opportunities across the University, that each individual School works hard to improve and develop every year.

School of Life Sciences and Education

School of Health and Social Care

School of Law, Policing and Forensics

STAFFORDSHIRE BUSINESS SCHOOL At Staffordshire Business School, we understand that business evolves with time and technology, so we are constantly adapting our learning strategies and courses to give you the best chance to get ahead of the competition when you graduate.

OUR BUSINESS COURSES As a future businessperson, it’s important that you have a foundation of knowledge in various aspects of modern business. For this reason, we have redesigned our courses and the way in which they are delivered. Our standard three-year degrees now offer a connected first year curriculum, which include a collection of interdisciplinary modules, that offer all our students a strong all-round business knowledge. During the second and third year you will then branch out to become an expert in your chosen field, and ultimately proving your business prowess.

BE THE EXPERT Whether you’re looking to dive into the marketing world or the corporate arena, we have the course for you. What’s more, our courses are not solely devoted to their specialist subject, we give you the option of studying other areas of business to boost your knowledge and employment opportunities.

BUSINESS FOCUS Our brand-new business degrees are delivered through a ‘immersive learning’ method. This method gives you, as a student, the opportunity to completely focus on one module at a time, rather than studying various synchronised modules each semester. Using this method of learning means that you will become completely immersed in each aspect of business that you study, allowing you to dedicate 100 per cent of your study time to building your expertise before moving on to the next module.

CHOOSE TO BE THE BEST Become a master of all trades in our new courses. No matter which course you choose you will have access to optional modules that span our entire business portfolio, including Entrepreneurship, AI and Big Data, Business Psychology, Web Design and Development, and more. In addition to full-time courses we will also offer a full range of alternate study methods, including two-year accelerated degrees, distance learning opportunities and part-time delivery. Foundation-year courses are also available.

EXPERIENCE EVERYTHING Staffordshire Business School is set within the grounds of our main Stoke-on-Trent campus. So you are able to experience, not only your own state-of-the-art facilities such as the brand-new £40m Catalyst building, the Transition Room, and the Collaboratory but share the facilities used by other courses such as the Cadman TV Studios and broadcasting equipment, or the VR-packed Smart Zone.

CONNECTIONS THAT LAUNCH CAREERS Our courses are all packed full of opportunities to meet and network with global business giants that can help you gain valuable experience, or even forge the career of your future. Plus, our academics are professionally active too, so they are constantly learning skills and techniques that are applicable in today’s business world - rather than relying on out-of-date theory.

OUR UNIQUE LEARNING EXPERIENCE At Staffordshire Business School, we are offering you a unique learning experience, whatever you choose to study with us. The Unique Learning Experience of Staffordshire University is made up of four pillars that connect students to innovative and professional opportunities, creating employable graduates with a global vision, that are ready to change the world.

Find out more about visiting us

Explore the different factors of our unique learning experience

INNOVATIVE Innovation is embedded in the history of Staffordshire Business School. We are constantly evolving our courses to adapt to the needs and requirements of growing industries.

ONLINE PREP

2-3 DAYS TEACHING

WEEK

Unique teaching methods New-for-2021 we are launching an immersive learning method on four of our undergraduate business courses. This mode of study allows students to study isolated modules to drive expertise and focus on each part of their degree. This learning method gives students five weeks per module to study and complete assessments.

REVISION AND ASSESSMENT

PROFESSIONAL We create business professionals that graduate with work experience and profiles that build on degree certifications and are focused on employability. Guaranteed Work Experience Our work experience opportunities are essential to the professionalisation of past, present and future students. This year, we will continue to offer the opportunity of a work placement to every student and help to secure placements using our connections to big hitters in business around the world. Micro-credentials All students at Staffordshire Business School get the opportunity to complete micro-credentials to bolster their expertise and professional profiles. These are dependant on module choices but could include specialist certifications in Microsoft Office and Adobe programs, and the desirable Entrepreneurship and Small Business Certification.

GLOBAL VISION Our students discover the world without leaving the campus. We have students from all over the world, and our physical, as well as digital reach, is extending every day. Blended learning opportunities Our digital provision is growing every year, and our cloud-based resources, virtual learning platform ‘Blackboard’, and virtual business simulations continue to connect students from far and wide under the Staffordshire Business School banner. Connected curriculums We think globally in our undergraduate courses, and we offer our degree level students a connected first year experience to gives students the best business foundation to build expertise upon. The connected curriculum is made up of a collection of interdisciplinary modules that give students a broad knowledge of degree-level business, and aims to create flexible, diverse and employable graduates.

CHANGE-MAKERS Our attitude as a business school makes us stand out from the crowd and provides you with the opportunity to make a difference in the world and your career. The Catalyst building Our brand-new teaching building, the Catalyst, is an example of our commitment to using change as a tool to drive the careers of our students. This is the home of Staffordshire Business School and provides networking opportunities and world-class digital and physical facilities for daily use. Successful Alumni Our Alumni are all over the world in ground-breaking industries, making positive and influential changes in business. Not only does this prove the success of our unique learning experience – it gives us a huge international and high-level network of brilliant and friendly connections.

APPLICATION JOURNEY When it comes to education in business, it’s important to make the right choice for your future. At Staffordshire Business School, we want to provide you with the right information for you to make that choice - that’s why we fully support you during Staffordshire University Open Days and a variety of UCAS events throughout 2021 and 2022.

IMPORTANT APPLICATION DATES Whatever your circumstances, you can apply for a place at Staffordshire Business School right up until September 2021. However, University accommodation and courses tend to fill up fast so try your best to hit the recommended application date.

APPLICATION DATE

UCAS EXTRA OPENS

CLEARING OPENS

RESULTS DAYS

We encourage you to apply by this UCAS recommended date to ensure your application is considered early.

If you’ve used all choices on your application, and you’re not holding any offers, you can still find a place using UCAS Extra.

Clearing is your final chance to get an offer for a place on one of our courses but bear in mind, places are limited.

Typically, you should get your results between July and August 2021 depending on what you’re studying.

28th Jan 2021

July 2021

Feb 2021

July – Aug 2021

AFTER YOU’VE APPLIED If you’ve submitted your application by UCAS’s recommended application date of 28 January and been made an offer, you will start your post-application journey.

OFFER HOLDER DAYS

APPLY FOR YOUR ACCOMMODATION

APPLYING FOR FINANCE

ENROLMENT

Get an exclusive tour around your future campus and find out more about your chosen course.

Once you’ve made Staffordshire University your firm choice, you are eligible to apply for your first-year accommodation.

Get your finances sorted as soon as possible so you can concentrate on your exams – it’s easier than it looks!

Relax and settle into Staffordshire university life on our activity-packed Welcome Week. You’ve made it.

Mar – April 2021

July – Sep 2021

Jan – April 2021

Jan – Sep 2021

WAYS TO JOIN US Depending on your situation, there are five main routes that you can take to begin studying at Staffordshire Business School.

Although these are the five main routes to study, we always welcome a wide range of qualifications and qualification combinations. We assess each application individually, taking into account any experience and skills you may have in your chosen field.

A LEVELS If you have taken or are taking GCE A levels, the exact grades and subjects you need will depend on the course you want to study. The qualifications you get will translate directly unto UCAS tariff points, and you’ll be able to check whether the qualifications you’re predicted/have are right for what you want to study. You’ll find all the requirements listed on our course pages in this course guide.

FOUNDATION LEVEL COURSES A number of our degrees are available with a foundation year, helping bridge the gap between your school or college qualifications and your chosen degree. Foundation courses tend to have lower entry requirements and are designed to prepare students for seamless transition onto a full degree course. Taking a foundation course, then progressing on to a full degree, will extend the total study period by one year.

ACCESS TO HE DIPLOMA Most Further Education colleges in the UK offer Access to HE courses in a range of subjects at Level 3. These special diplomas are designed to take you into the subject you want to study. Many of our students come through an Access to HE path, so you’ll find that we know exactly how to support you. Once you apply, we’ll cross reference the units you’ve studied at college to help you get a lot closer to the course - and the career - you want.

BTECS Because many of our students join us with BTEC qualifications, you’ll find we know how to help you put your vocational experience to good use. There are two main BTEC pathways: • BTEC Level 3 is the equivalent of studying A levels and will allow you to start a degree programme in the first year. • BTEC Level 4 HNC and Level 5 HND will allow you to progress to some degree programmes in the second or final year of the course. We do this by mapping the modules and content of the course you have already taken to our course. • •

STEP UP TO HE

Step Up to HE is a free 10-week course designed by us at Staffordshire University to give you a taste of what it’s like to study at university. Successfully completing Step Up to HE will allow you to study a range of subjects at Staffordshire University. Then, when you’re ready to apply, we’ll give you all the help you need with your UCAS application. To find out more, or to apply for our Step Up to HE course, call: 01782 294400 or visit: www.staffs.ac.uk/stepup

Find out more about becoming a Staffordshire University student

A CATALYST FOR CHANGE At Staffordshire Business School, we are committed to changing with the dynamics of modern business. We want to give you the best chance as a student to make the valuable connections that could influence your future career and provide opportunities.

Find out more about the Catalyst

THE CATALYST BUILDING New-for-2021 we are launching our brandnew teaching development: the Catalyst building. This new building will combine new technologies with dynamic learning spaces and will be used to launch the careers of the next generation of Staffordshire Business School students. Networking and business collaboration are key to the buildings objective, with drop-ins from industry employers, as well as an open plan social and food zone that create a casual, yet professional atmosphere. Every day will offer the opportunity to make life-changing connections.

THE FACILITIES The building hosts both digital and physical resources, including books and a number of special collections. The development is designed to be fluid, dynamic, and built around the idea of change. The spaces and facilities will be interchangeable, movable and made to adapt to the needs of your specific course throughout your time at Staffordshire Business School.

MORE THAN A BUILDING The Catalyst will bring together social, study, teaching and support functions to you as a Staffordshire Business School student. The building is much more than just a home for business, it’s a living and breathing networking centre, welcoming students from all over the University, as well as active business professionals.

WHY ‘CATALYST’? The definition of a catalyst is ‘an event, person or object that causes great change’. At Staffordshire University we believe that our institution, teaching, and academics can be the catalyst that changes your career path, and ultimately, your life.

Take a sneak peek inside the Catalyst Building

MAKING BUSINESS YOUR HOME

One of the biggest changes you might face when studying at Staffordshire Business School is living away from home. This might seem daunting at first, but when you’re not proving yourself in the boardroom, there are great memories to be made, great experiences to have, and great friends to be found. 18

Although our focus is on giving you the stepping stone to a successful career in business, we are also committed to remembering our roots as a wider University. Our halls of residence are named after the famous potters and manufacturers that put Stoke-on-Trent on the map, and there are a variety of different options available depending on the experience you want to have while studying with us. LIVE IN THE MIX If you want to be in the centre of the university action, our Leek Road Halls offer a chance to study and socialise right on your doorstep. These rooms are contemporary, comfortable and community focused, with a large kitchen complete with modern appliances, a comfy social space and relaxing bedroom area.

LIVE OFF CAMPUS If on-campus accommodation isn’t for you, don’t worry. There are a number of private housing and student housing in the local area to take advantage of. So you can live as close to, or as far away from the action as you want. It’s a great way to get a head-start on budgeting for the future, and the living options are endless. Learn more about our University accommodation, find out costs and explore our halls of residence with our online 360 at: www.staffs.ac.uk/accommodation CHANGE TOGETHER Going out in the world by yourself doesn’t mean you have to be alone. We have a dedicated team to make sure you settle in and help you get started with university life. We have a team of Student Mentors who live in the accommodation and make sure that everyone is happy. They’re all students, so they know what it’s like to start a new adventure.

The majority of our accommodation opens out onto gardens, fields or courtyards. These great outdoor spaces are equipped with seating, outdoor ovens and charging points so you can keep up to date with the latest social feeds while you relax.

Student Mentors are the people to go to for help finding the best supermarkets in the area, the best places for a good night out, or where to do your laundry, for example. They are available seven days a week – even if you just want a cuppa and a chat.

LIVE AMONGST NATURE Around its own enclosed courtyard space, Clarice Cliff Court provides bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms and shared kitchen facilities. The buildings are located next to our nature reserve and set back from the main campus area, giving it the chilled-out country vibe that is unique to a city campus like Stoke-on-Trent.

YOUR PERSONAL WELFARE Another great facility we offer is an on-site NHS healthcare centre, with doctors available during the week. Once you’re registered, you’ll have full access to a local GP service – something that isn’t available at a lot of other universities. All this extra help means you can be as independent and community minded as you want – and really make the most of your time here.

LIVE IN A CLOSE-KNIT COMMUNITY If you’re looking for something more homely, Leek Road Houses are perfect for you. In our popular terrace house style houses, you’ll have your own bedroom a spacious open plan kitchen and living space to relax with your new housemates.

SAFE AND SECURE Our Campus Security (an on-site support team) are available 24/7 and there’s even a friendly campus police officer who can give advice on personal safety. Once you’ve received a course offer, you can apply for a room in our accommodation. Find out more at: www.staffs.ac.uk/accommodation

THE HEART OF BUSINESS At Staffordshire Business School, we don’t just mould the success stories of the future, we make a real impact on business and society through innovation and research.

Our team of academics and business-active professionals are constantly delivering industry and government funded research projects to make a better business world for you to thrive in when you graduate. Our research is not only making a difference to the outside world, it’s sharpening the tools and knowledge we deliver to you as a student, keeping you ahead of the curve in key areas of business like entrepreneurship and innovation, digital transformation, environmental sustainability, and more.

NETWORK DEVELOPMENT Staffordshire Business School has recently connected with a team of Entrepreneurs in Residence. These are a group of business professionals, working for the University, who provide students and staff with hands-on experience in conducting research to spot business opportunities, and provide market analysis so we can better understand consumer behaviour.

HIGH IMPACT PROJECTS Digital transformation strategist and passionate researcher Professor Fang Zhao and her team have been conducting research and analysis of a range of changing scenarios within post-COVID-19 smart cities, pinpointing the opportunities and challenges for businesses, city councils and universities. Their research focuses on strategies, tactics and technology transformation.

INDUSTRY DEFINING PUBLICATIONS Every year research-active academics produce publications that look to explore new and exciting topics in the business world. Recently, Professor David Etherington provided bold and fresh perspectives on the link between welfare policy and employment relations in Austerity Welfare and Work, Professor Jon Fairburn looked to improved environmental health in the Environmental Health Inequalities Resource Package, and Dr Andrew Taylor co-authored People, Place and Global Order: Foundations of a Networked Political Economy, that delved into the concept that technology and globalisation is shifting value creation out of products and processes and into digital networks.

INNOVATIVE RESEARCH Funded by the British Academy, award-winning Banker, Entrepreneur and Staffordshire Business School academic Dr Tolulope Olarewaju has led a research project focusing on the specific challenges that BAME business owners faced during the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown. During the project, Dr Tolulope highlighted specific strategies that BAME business owners used to keep their businesses afloat, and how they engaged with financial and regional support.

THE STUDENTS’ UNION We know you’ll love Staffordshire Business School as much as we do, and as soon as you join us, you’ll be a member of a Students’ Union that proudly represents the academic interests of our school and the entire University community. As well as providing advice and support services, we encourage you to create, connect and explore your passions while you’re studying. This is your Union, and you can help us make a difference. REPRESENTING YOU We are democratically led – with four students elected each year to become the Officer Team. Our officers are supported by a range of student representatives, who guide our fantastic support mechanisms and other work to ensure your University hears your voice when making big decisions. All student representatives are elected, and taking part is a fantastic opportunity for you to gain skills whilst making a change. GET INVOLVED Whilst you’re studying, there is so much to do and be a part of. There are over 100 student-led clubs and societies to choose from to feed your existing passions or to try something new!

You can also get involved in one-off activities locally and on-campus with our exciting Give it a Go and volunteering programmes. ADVICE, SUPPORT AND GAME CHANGERS Our friendly advice team are here to support you. They’re experts in academic advice, housing and money management and it’s all free to you as a student. The advice team provide factual, confidential and impartial advice to empower students to shape their own experience. Our Officer Team also reach out to students with events, ideas and campaigns that we call ‘Game Changers’, to help make the university experience a safer and more enjoyable one for our students. GREENPAD GreenPad is the Union lettings service that puts students in safe accommodation with approved landlords. We work with lots of different landlords to provide a range of properties to suit all budgets and requirements, and our team are always on hand to support any aspect of an application. THE PLACES TO BE Whether it’s ‘knit and natter’ in Squeezebox, boardgames in the boardroom, quizzes and karaoke at Ember Lounge, fresh dining at Verve, or club nights at the LRV – you won’t be struggling for something to do during your spare time. What’s more, all our services and venues have the Best Bar None Gold Accreditation.

ON-CAMPUS VENUES THE EMBER LOUNGE If you’re looking for a chill-out during your studies, then Ember Lounge is the place to be! You can relax with friends, check out live sport and sample fantastic foods. To add to all of that, it’s also home to our sell-out karaoke nights!

WORK HARD PLAY HARD Staffordshire Business School is not all about your future career. It’s important to live in the now as much as to look toward the future, and you don’t need to look further than Staffordshire University to find a vibrant social scene – our on-campus venues are always packed full of life, activities, and the allimportant chance to let your hair down!

LRV Our weekly club nights cater for all students, and in recent years, have hosted Professor Green, Scouting for Girls, Dougie Poynter and Kristian Nairn (Hodor). We also transform the space during the day for dance practice, vintage fairs and family-friendly days.

VERVE With fresh dining, and a whole range of events, Verve is our all-day venue that hosts loads of live music, society events and daily food deals to keep you fuelled up for whatever the day holds.

SQUEEZEBOX If coffee is your game, then SqueezeBox is your campus caffeine stop. With a relaxed atmosphere, you can sit in with friends, or grab a coffee, smoothie or anything from our vegan friendly menu to go.

THE BUSINESS LOUNGE Need to unwind after a long day of decision making, our business lounge has you covered! A one-stop-shop for networking, rehydrating between lectures and relaxing out of hours!

WORKING WHILE YOU STUDY From CV building to supplementing your student loans, gaining work experience and earning can always make a change while studying. Thankfully, there are lots of opportunities for you to earn while you learn, without taking time away from your studies.

IN THE UNION

STUDENT AMBASSADORS

Our shops and venues all need to be well stocked and run by capable, enthusiastic student staff, so we hire over 200 students every year to work in the Students’ Union. From serving food and drink to designing posters for events and campaigns, there are plenty of things to get involved with in the Union.

Would you love to meet prospective students, visitors and guests and represent the student community? Our Student Ambassadors are paid to help at various recruitment events, including Open Days, giving you lots of ways to develop your social, organisational, time management and communication skills. Plus, becoming a student ambassador is a fantastic way to make new friends and build up personal and professional references.

If you are recruited for one of the jobs, you’ll be paid over the minimum wage and our flexible working means it doesn’t interfere with your studies. As well as making money and more than a few friends, you’ll have the chance to receive training in different professional areas, from food hygiene to leadership and management.

UNITEMPS There are wider job opportunities available with our inhouse recruitment consultancy. It’s the ideal way to add some extra colour to your CV, while putting money in your pocket. You can learn more about Unitemps at: www.staffs.ac.uk/unitemps

Find out more about our Student Services

STUDENT SUPPORT NETWORKS Our fantastic community means you’re constantly connected to a great support network. Our staff and services care. Whether it’s a concern about money, a query about your studies or a personal issue - we are here to support you. The Student Support and Wellbeing Team based in our Student Hub are always available to offer their time and support.

UNITEMPS It’s important to us that our students can get access to information, care and support which meet their needs. Our Student Hub is the place to go at our Stoke-on-Trent campus for any students that need advice and support, have a query, or are looking for careers support.

BEACON Beacon is your new friend in your pocket and is the first digital coach in any UK university. You can use Beacon to get your timetable, lecturer information, ask questions, get a new student card or bank letter, find a member of staff, or find activities on campus.

CARE LEAVERS AND ESTRANGED STUDENTS Our dedicated staff are always available for students who are care experienced or estranged from their families. The team is in place to

support students as they transition into and through their studies at Staffordshire University. They will provide a personalised service which includes year-round accommodation, targeted financial support, and personalised support from our student support workers. You can find out more at: www.staffs.ac.uk/care-leavers

STUDENT SUPPORT AND WELLBEING It’s important to us that as a student, you have access to support when you need it the most, whether that be faceto-face or online. Our friendly team of Support and Wellbeing Advisers are available for you to talk confidentially to about any issues or problems you may experience whilst studying.

CHAPLAINCY AND SPIRITUAL WELLBEING Faith is an important part of many lives; our Chaplaincy team is in place to support students from all

faiths and none – they can provide valuable support in times of need, but also deliver events and activities that contribute to the life of our University. They also make a brilliant cup of tea!

SUPPORT AT THE STUDENTS’ UNION Our excellent Students’ Union is also available for all kinds of support, from job opportunities on campus to a ‘Money Doctor’ advice service.

DAY CARE NURSERY We are committed to supporting students with children. We provide high quality childcare at our Stokeon-Trent campus Nursery for children aged 0-8 years.

You can find out more about the range of services that we offer to our diverse community at: www.staffs.ac.uk/ studentservices

YOUR FUTURE CAREERS Preparing you to make a change in the careers of tomorrow is at the heart of everything we do. 26

We stay in constant communication with our extensive professional network and encourage all students to gain invaluable work experience in the local area, as well as wider areas of the UK and internationally. Key skills are carefully built into all our courses, ensuring you’re ready to stand out by the time you graduate. With a little help from us, you could become a global visionary that thrives on professionalism, innovation, and change-making – just what 21st century industry craves.

CAREER AND PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT Our careers team and peer to peer coaches is bursting with knowledge, passion and expertise. Our team are always on hand and can give you access to: • One-to-one career coaching • Coaching on interview techniques, CV writing and job applications • MyCareer - the go-to portal for personal development and work experience opportunities on and off campus • Unitemps - our in-house recruitment agency, providing a range of paid work on campus and with local employers • Annual Careers and Enterprise events that bring hundreds of employers onto campus • Careers support for life!

WORK EXPERIENCE In the current jobs market, you need more than qualifications alone. That’s why we arm you with experience alongside your degree, so you can secure the right future career. Like jobs, one size doesn’t fit all. Your work experience may be part of your course’s connections, obtained through your school or the Career and Personal Development Team. Or it might be something you organise yourself. No matter how you find it, we’ll help ensure it gives you the real hands-on learning your career needs.

GAINING EXPERIENCE There are so many different ways to gain experience before, during and after your studies. We strongly encourage you to plan your experiences well, try lots of new activities and keep reflecting on what you have gained from every opportunity. Rest assured, support is on hand to help you select and secure these experiences as it’s so crucial to keep building networks, understanding your strengths and planning for what is sure to be an exciting future.

MY CAREER Your Career and Personal Development one-stop-shop is the first place to go to look for jobs and experiences and book on to a careers event: www.staffs.ac.uk/mycareer

HEALTHY BODY HEALTHY MIND Learn more about our Staffordshire University sporting community

Sport and physical activity play a large part in the wider university experience, and can be a great way to unwind from a heavy day of goal setting and strategy planning. From meeting friends, to keeping fit and taking on local university rivals in our annual Varsity event, there’s no better way of taking the pressure off and getting into campus life than diving headfirst into sport at Staffordshire University. Whether you’re a total novice looking for some recreational sport, or a rising star set for centre stage in the first team, there’s something for you to get stuck into. From football, netball, basketball and lacrosse, to more fun and friendly activities like Ultimate Frisbee® and glow-in-the-dark badminton.

OUR SPORTS FACILITIES INCLUDE: Grass pitches for football, lacrosse, American football, ultimate frisbee and rugby Sports hall for badminton, volleyball, futsal and basketball Two floodlit Astroturf pitches State-of-the-art 3G surfaces

TALENTED ATHLETE PROGRAMME If you do take your sport seriously and play at county level or above, you could apply for our Talented Athlete Programme, where you’ll have the chance to represent the University all over the country and receive a significant support package to allow you to compete and study to the best of your ability. The support package includes: Free use of University sports facilities Sports therapy treatment Sports science performance testing Strength and Conditioning Coaching Sports nutrition support Sports psychology support Potential financial support

OUR GYM We have a fully equipped sports hall, new functional training rooms and an 80-station gym with cardio equipment, resistance equipment and free weights. If you choose to live in University accommodation then access to the gym is free of charge, if not then membership starts at just £15 a month.

Full training kit A personal mentor

Take a look around our state-of-the-art sports facilities

THE COST OF SUCCESS University fees might sound daunting at first, but remember... you aren’t just investing in us, you’re investing in your future career. Everybody has the right to a fantastic university experience, no matter what your financial status may be - so be sure to check the following support section for more information on what financial help is available, and exactly where to go to find out more.

Find out all about fees and funding

Check out our helpful videos on fees and finance

TUITION FEES 2021/2022 HOME STUDENTS Current fees for 2021/22 are listed as below. The annual fee for undergraduate students studying full-time is £9,250 for 2021/22. This is a regulated fee; the Government determines the maximum fee a university may charge. The University expects to apply any permitted increase, so subsequent years’ fees may increase, but will do so by no more than the rate of inflation as measured by the RPIX index. Any permitted increases in fees will be published on the University’s website so for the most up-to-date fees information please refer to our Website. 2021/22 FEES: • All full-time undergraduate degrees - £9,250.00 • Two-year accelerated degrees - £11,100.00* • We also offer a pro-rata fee structure for part-time study. INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS • All full-time undergraduate degrees - £14,000* For more information about fees visit: www.staffs.ac.uk/international-fees

ABOUT OUR FEES New and continuing students will be charged the maximum permitted fee, determined by the Government and measured on how we perform against the Teaching Excellence Framework. Fees for our part-time undergraduate courses are usually a proportion of the full-time fee depending on the number of modules studied (commonly referred to as ‘course intensity’). Placement year fees will be charged at no more than 20% of the normal tuition fee. For further information please visit: www.staffs.ac.uk/undergraduate/fees ADDITIONAL COURSE COSTS If there are additional costs associated with any course they will be listed on our website. Additional costs typically include items such as: • Equipment hire • Optional field trips • Printing • Books you wish to purchase. Please note: Accommodation and living costs are not included in our tuition fees. For further details on what’s included in your tuition fees please visit the individual course pages on our website.

FINANCIAL SUPPORT LOANS FOR TUITION FEES Eligible UK students are entitled to apply for a tuition fee loan to cover the full cost of tuition fees. These are paid direct to the University and you don’t have to pay anything back until you have graduated and are earning over £25,725 per annum*.

SOURCES OF ADDITIONAL FINANCIAL SUPPORT If you receive funding from Student Finance you may be eligible to apply for additional support. Details of the financial support available and how to apply for it can be obtained by visiting: www.gov.uk

LOANS FOR LIVING COSTS (UK STUDENTS ONLY) Eligible UK students can also take out a maintenance loan to help pay for things like accommodation, food, transport and books. The maximum amount you can borrow depends on your household income as well as where you are studying and living. This will be paid into your nominated bank account at the start of each term, once confirmation of your registration has been sent to Student Finance. Find out more at: www.gov.uk/student-finance

Extra funding is available for students with dependents as well as for those who have disabilities. Full details, including a student finance calculator, can be found at: www.gov.uk/student-finance

*Correct at time of going to print (April 2021).

UCAS POINTS AND WHAT THEY MEAN

Learn more about UCAS points and our entry requirements

There are numerous different ways to study at Staffordshire University. But with so many qualifications available, it’s important to have one scale to measure everything. That’s where UCAS points come in. The UCAS tariff converts the grades you achieve into points. That way, a wide range of qualiﬁcations can be compared and considered during the application process. For some courses, speciﬁc subjects and grades may also be required.

The tables opposite will help you see how your grades convert into UCAS points, so you can start working out exactly what you need. The information below is designed to help you calculate the number of UCAS points awarded to the different qualifications you may have studied. For help with converting your qualifications into UCAS points, visit: www.ucas.com/ucas/tariff-calculator

UCAS POINTS CALCULATOR The information below is designed to help you calculate the number of UCAS points awarded to the different qualifications you may have studied.

A level and AVCE

A* A B C D E

56 48 40 32 24 16

Points are not included for all qualifications but further information is available on page 15 of our prospectus.

BTEC National Extended Diploma/BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma

D*D*D*

168

D*D*D

160

D*DD

152

DDD

144

DDM

128

AS Level and AS VCE

DMM

112

A B C D E

MMM

MMP

20 16 12 10 6

MPP 64 PPP 48

For further information about our courses please contact our Enquiries Team on 01782 294400.

HIGHER AND DEGREE APPRENTICESHIPS If you’re interested in combining practical, on-the-job training with studying for a university qualification, a degree or higher apprenticeship could be the answer.

Discover more about our Higher and Degree Apprenticeships

Higher and degree apprenticeships are fast becoming recognised as an exciting way to gain university level skills while earning a salary. They provide the opportunity to start a new career, supported by university learning – or gain new qualifications to help you progress in your current career. A higher apprenticeship typically takes two years to complete, while a degree apprenticeship normally takes three to four years. You can combine full-time employment with part-time study at university with your fees paid for.

VALUABLE CONNECTIONS Take either a higher or degree apprenticeship with us and you’ll divide your time between the workplace and university. All apprentices must be in suitable paid employment. Because you’ll be spending valuable time in work, learning practical skills, you’ll also be able to make valuable connections with people in your chosen industry or profession.

NO TUITION FEES Higher and degree apprenticeships are funded by a government agency. As there’s no tuition cost for you, your university learning experience will be debt-free.

WHO ARE APPRENTICESHIPS FOR? Higher and degree apprenticeships are suitable for college leavers and existing employees looking to progress in their chosen career. Each of our apprenticeships are designed in association with employers, so you can be safe in the knowledge that you’re gaining career-boosting practical skills alongside the academic knowledge demanded by your chosen industry or sector.

WHY STAFFORDSHIRE UNIVERSITY? This is an exciting time for higher and degree apprenticeships at Staffordshire University. We work with some of the country’s largest employers and we’re continually working to introduce an even wider choice of apprenticeships. So, whether you’re keen to enter the workplace quickly and earn a salary, or you want to progress further with your current employer, there’s every chance we’ve an apprenticeship that’s perfect for you.

Dig into our higher and degree apprenticeships opportunities

HIGHER AND DEGREE APPRENTICESHIPS

WHICH LEVEL IS FOR ME? Whether you study for a higher apprenticeship or a degree apprenticeship will depend on the apprenticeship you’re interested in. If you’re already employed, it will be determined by the needs of your employer. Higher apprenticeship - you’ll study at Levels 4 or 5 equivalent to a foundation degree and above. Degree apprenticeship - you’ll study for a full Bachelors degree (Level 6) or a full Masters degree (Level 7).

WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS? To be eligible for a higher or degree apprenticeship, all apprentices are required by the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) to have achieved and be able to provide evidence of the following before being accepted onto an apprenticeship programme: • Evidence of English GCSE (grade A-C or 9-4) or equivalent qualification eg. Level 2 functional skills. • Evidence of Maths GCSE (grade A-C or 9-4) or equivalent qualification eg. Level 2 functional skills.

Higher and degree apprenticeships will require a level 3 qualification, subject to school and level of standard. But don’t worry if you don’t meet these criteria our University is committed to diversity and inclusion and will consider applications from those with relevant experience on an individual basis. Typical entry requirements: • 5 GCSEs – Grade C or above equivalent in Maths and English. • 64-112 UCAS points from relevant level 3 qualifications, eg. A levels/BTEC. Evidence of significant relevant previous learning or experience may be considered on an individual basis. • Must have a contract of employment to cover you for the duration of the apprenticeship for a minimum of 30 hours a week.

To find an organisation that is offering the kind of apprenticeship you’re looking for, visit the government’s apprenticeship website: www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship

“I would definitely recommend the apprentice scheme, by Staffordshire Business School, especially for those in full-time work. It has been a great experience and a real benefit to my role - the tutors have been brilliant and the performance review helps to give me the confidence that what I am doing is right.” ZOE HAYES Operations/Departmental Manager Apprentice - University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust

OUR APPRENTICESHIPS HR CONSULTANT/PARTNER APPRENTICESHIP – LEVEL 5 On this Apprenticeship you will gain HR expertise to provide and lead the delivery of solutions to business challenges, together with tailored advice to the business in a number of HR areas, typically to mid-level and senior managers.

OPERATIONS/DEPARTMENTAL MANAGER APPRENTICESHIP – LEVEL 5 This apprenticeship will ensure that you are well-equipped for a role as an Operations or Departmental Manager, focusing on areas such as strategic planning, managing projects, leading and managing teams, financial and resource management and supporting people through coaching & mentoring.

CHARTERED MANAGER DEGREE APPRENTICESHIP – LEVEL 6 Designed in collaboration with the Chartered Management Institute, and regional and national employers, this Degree Apprenticeship will provide you with the knowledge and skills you will need to become a confident management professional.

DIGITAL MARKETER INTEGRATED DEGREE APPRENTICESHIP - LEVEL 6 The Digital Marketer Degree Apprenticeship is designed to provide a route for people working in the fields of digital marketing, to access a degree level qualification. It focusses on the areas of customer acquisition, customer engagement and customer retention.

SENIOR LEADER APPRENTICESHIP – LEVEL 7 The Staffordshire MBA is delivered by academics and practitioners with relevant research expertise and industry experience. Having been designed for experienced practitioners, our MBA is based on the core competencies of Strategic Agility, Organisational Agility, Customer Focus, Drive for Results, and Career Ambition.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

SUBJECT TO APPROVAL/VALIDATION We’re always striving to deliver the most current and relevant degrees, both by creating new courses and regularly reviewing our current offering. Each time we make changes, the course goes through a rigorous approval process to ensure that it’s the perfect fit for our students, employers and other relevant stakeholders. Some of the courses inside this prospectus are marked as ‘subject to approval’ or ‘subject to validation’, but don’t worry, this just means some of the details of the course haven’t been finalised yet. As soon as the new course is approved and validated, up-to-date information will be provided on the online course pages at www.staffs.ac.uk/courses If you have been offered a place and there is a significant change to the course, or for any reason, the course doesn’t run - we will contact you immediately and fully support you in finding the best suitable alternative. At the time of printing in April 2021, the courses listed in this prospectus represent those we intend to offer for the 2022 academic year. Very occasionally, however, we need to make changes to our courses, including their content and the way in which they are delivered. In some instances, courses can be discontinued or combined with other courses. Reasons for withdrawing courses can include insufficient student numbers and courses not receiving the necessary accreditation or approval. Changes to course information may include operational and academic reasons. If circumstances beyond our control mean we cannot provide particular educational services, all reasonable steps will be taken to minimise any disruption to those services. However, the University will have no liability for any loss or damage suffered by any prospect or student as a result.

As a prospective student of Staffordshire University, it’s your responsibility to ensure you have fully reviewed up-todate course information before you apply, and that your chosen course fully meets your requirements. You should also check the course still meets your requirements before accepting an offer to study with us. Student satisfaction scores have been provided by Unistats and are correct at the time of going to print. For more information, visit: discoveruni.gov.uk If we discontinue a course or programme and you’re not happy with the alternative offered, or if a programme is changed and you’re not happy with the changes, you’ll be given the opportunity to withdraw from the programme. Up-to-date course information can be found on our website (www.staffs.ac.uk), or by calling us on 01782 294400. If you’re offered a place at Staffordshire University, your offer will be subject to the University’s Terms and Conditions of Offer. If you become a student of Staffordshire University, you will enter a contract with us and be bound by our rules and regulations. These, too, may vary from time to time (www.staffs.ac.uk/ rulesandregs) Employability statistics at course level are calculated by Staffordshire University from overall University statistics from the annual DLHE survey.

OUR COURSES At Staffordshire Business School we currently offer four bespoke undergraduate courses and one Foundation Degree, designed specifically to launch your career in certain business sectors.

CONNECTED CURRICULUM Our portfolio mimics the fluidity and ever-changing world of business, that’s just one of the reasons that all of our undergraduate degrees share the same first year module structure. As an advantage to

your future in higher education, it’s important to note that if your ambitions or interests change during your first year, there is an option to transfer to another business course that will better fit your end goals.

UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES (IMMERSIVE LEARNING) BA (HONS) FINANCE AND BUSINESS ENTERPRISE

BA (HONS) BUSINESS MANAGEMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY

BA (HONS) BUSINESS INNOVATION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP

BA (HONS) DIGITAL AND SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING

FOUNDATION YEAR STUDY

OPTIONAL MODULES

FOUNDATION DEGREES (TRADITIONAL LEARNING) Fda VISITOR ATTRACTION AND RESORT MANAGEMENT

58 39

BA (HONS) FINANCE AND BUSINESS ENTERPRISE Get your career in order with a degree in finance and business enterprise. WELCOME Welcome to the future of accounting and finance. With our brand-new course, you’ll go one step further than a traditional accounting and finance degree, taking expertise on taxation and financial capital management to a 21st century level. You will gain a deeper understanding of the crucial role of finance in organisational decision making and the pursuit of competitive advantage, giving you the edge on the competition in your future career and ensuring you’re able to hit-the-ground-running when you graduate. We are constantly staying ahead of the game in researching and developing new teaching around the latest in the financial industries, including sustainable accounting and financial technologies. We strive to teach the up-todate specialised software and algorithms that are utilised to help companies, business owners and consumers alike to better manage their financial operations, processes and lives.

At Staffordshire Business School we provide a streamlined teaching method, allowing you to focus on one module at a time. To allow true immersion in each stage of your learning, you will study one topic over a five-week period and receive your provisional results before starting the next module. Our approach focuses on individual skills and will develop your expertise as an independent learner and problem solver, preparing you for a fast-paced, focused career in finance and business. CAREERS Finance and business enterprise professionals are essential to the running of any modern or traditional business. Graduates from finance-based courses at Staffordshire Business School have gone on to work for companies such as KPMG, Mazars, Royal Bank of Scotland, and the NHS. Degrees in finance and business enterprise courses also set a solid grounding if you wish to start your own business or explore further study.

AWARD

UCAS CODE

Typical UCAS tariff point offer

DURATION

BA (Hons)

NN66

112

3 years

BA (Hons) with a foundation year

NN67

4 years

BA (Hons) two-year accelerated

NN69

120

2 years

BA (Hons) with a placement year

NN68

112

4 years

BA (HONS) FINANCE AND BUSINESS ENTERPRISE

CONNECTED CURRICULUM During a typical 3-year degree, you will start developing your expertise with a range of modules focused around the broader aspects of business. You will study the importance of innovation in the modern world, with a strong focus on the implementation of data and digital technologies, and the global challenges and opportunities that have opened up in the current economic and political climate. You will also develop a detailed foundation in risk and return, portfolio theory and basic budgeting, alongside social enterprise and modern entrepreneurship and business and government roles in providing a sustainable planet for future generations. Your second year will build on your strongly developed business knowledge from the first, with you delving into your specialist interest in finance and business enterprise. Module-by-module, you’ll study the importance of finance and value creation, traditional and non-traditional methods and considerations around taxation for competitive advantage, and the 21st century methods and agendas of sustainable accounting. You will also study the importance

of safeguarding assets in a module focused on audit and forensic accounting, and the financial decisions and legal and financial structuring involved with entrepreneurial finance. Your third year will firmly solidify your expert status in finance and business enterprise. You will study the ins and outs of financial narration and reporting, that are critical management and regulatory tools. You’ll start to think bigger and more complex in the world of corporate finance, exploring risk and diversification in large scale budgeting and investments. You will also tackle the newage methods of financial technologies and digitisation, futureproofing you for the coming years in modern accounting, right before you graduate. In your final year you’ll also have the chance to go out into the real world and begin to develop your future enterprise in our New Venture Creation module, or work alongside other business students to identify and address a contemporary issue faced by a real organisation in an applied consultancy project.

We offer a foundation year with this degree, for more information please see page 56.

MODULES* YEAR ONE The Future of Work Data and Decision Making Global Challenges and Opportunities Risk and Reward Social Enterprise The Balance of Power

YEAR TWO Finance and Value Creation Taxation for Competitive Advantage Sustainability Accounting Audit and Forensic Accounting Entrepreneurial Finance

YEAR THREE Financial Narrative and Reporting Corporate Finance Fintech & Digitisation New Venture Creation Entrepreneurial Finance or Consultancy Project (40 credits)

During your study, you will also have the opportunity to select from a range of optional modules, for more information see page 57. *This module list is indicative and based on a typical 3-year degree. For an up-to-date module list please refer to website.

“THE COURSE IS CONTINUALLY LOOKING FOR THINGS TO HELP ENHANCE YOUR CV, SUCH AS EXTRA CERTIFICATIONS IN MICROSOFT OFFICE PROGRAMS.”

MICHAEL BROWN STAFFORDSHIRE BUSINESS SCHOOL ALUMNI One of the best things about being at staffs is that the lecturers are so friendly and always make time to help you if you need it. They are very quick to respond to queries via email too, which helps massively, especially during independent study or revision times. The course is continually looking for things to help enhance your CV, such as extra certifications in Microsoft Office programs. 43

BA (HONS) BUSINESS MANAGEMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY Become the boss of your own future with a degree in business management and sustainability. WELCOME You’ve arrived at the next level of business management. Whether you want to climb the ladder in the corporate world or get the tools you need to lead the way in your own business endeavours, you’re in the right place. With our specially developed course, you will challenge the traditional interpretations of enterprise and open your mind to a broad range of contemporary themes in business. Sustainability is the goal of the future in business and finance, and in our course, you will develop your knowledge in this area to an expert level to put you at the forefront of the most important consideration in industry. Our emphasis on ethical business and sustainability will position you to create a long-lasting value for your future organisations and you will learn the practical skills needed to become a responsible business leader. We are offering a new way to become an all-round expert in business that brings together critical aspects of marketing, accounting and digital innovation and combines them with traditional elements of business and leadership.

With us, you will be taught more than just theoretical strategies and business implementation techniques, you’ll also gain practical knowledge and an insight into some of the most widely used digital software, making you an invaluable asset in industry. At Staffordshire Business School, we provide a streamlined teaching method, allowing you to focus on one module at a time. To allow true immersion in each stage of your learning, you will study one topic over a five-week period and receive your provisional results before starting the next module. Our approach focuses on individual skills and will develop your expertise as an independent learner and problem solver, preparing you for a fast-paced, focused career in business. CAREERS A qualification in business offers a wide range of career options in general management and acts as a solid basis for professional qualifications from the Chartered Management Institute or the Institute of Leadership and Management. In recent years, graduates from our business

AWARD

UCAS CODE

Typical UCAS tariff point offer

DURATION

BA (Hons)

N243

112

3 years

BA (Hons) with a foundation year

N244

4 years

BA (Hons) two-year accelerated

N249

120

2 years

BA (Hons) with a placement year

N246

112

4 years

BA (HONS) BUSINESS MANAGEMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY

courses have entered retail, insurance, banking, marketing, human management and operations management in the public and private sectors. Many have also set up and thrived in their own businesses. CONNECTED CURRICULUM During a typical 3-year degree, you will start developing your expertise with a range of modules focused around the broader aspects of business. You will study the importance of innovation in the modern world, with a strong focus on the implementation of data and digital technologies, and the global challenges and opportunities that have opened up in the current economic and political climate. You will also develop a detailed foundation in risk and return, portfolio theory and basic budgeting, alongside social enterprise and modern entrepreneurship and business and government roles in providing a sustainable planet for future generations.

You’ll also learn to open your mind to the new-age ideas surrounding business creativity, innovation, and value building, exploring the boundaries that need to be broken for future growth within organisations. Your third year will see you developing your expertise in leadership strategy and social impact. You will elevate your knowledge to an understanding of the implications of key business decisions and theories behind innovation change management models in the 21st century. You’ll also start to think bigger and more complex in the world of corporate finance, exploring risk and diversification in large scale budgeting and investments. In your final year you’ll also work alongside other business students to identify and address a contemporary issue faced by a real organisation in a consultancy project.

Your second year will build on your strongly developed business knowledge from the first, with you delving into your specialist interest in business management and sustainability. Module-by-module, you’ll study the importance of the response to governance and climate change in modern industry, and the perception of value chains in sustainable business development.

We offer a foundation year with this degree, for more information please see page 56.

MODULES* YEAR ONE The Future of Work Data and Decision Making Global Challenges and Opportunities Risk and Reward Social Enterprise The Balance of Power

YEAR TWO The Business of Doing Good Governance and Climate Change Sustainable Business Development Business Creativity and Innovation

YEAR THREE Leadership Strategy and Social Impact Innovative Change Management Consultancy Project (40 credits)

“THE THEORIES WE LEARN, PRACTICE, AND APPLY TO ASSIGNMENTS CAN BE SIMILARLY APPLIED TO REAL-LIFE BUSINESS SITUATIONS. A STAFFORDSHIRE BUSINESS SCHOOL DEGREE IS YOUR COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE!” JACK TORDOFF STAFFORDSHIRE BUSINESS SCHOOL ALUMNI I have experienced first-hand just how relevant a Business Management degree from Staffordshire University can be. The theories we learn, practice, and apply to assignments can be similarly applied to real-life business situations. As part of this course, I completed a 12 month Industrial Placement with Aldi. Throughout the Placement I had the opportunity to lead various projects - looking at real business issues – where the models and approaches taught at Staffs proved to be instrumental in promptly understanding the situation and assessing the appropriate direction to take to find the most effective solution. A Staffordshire Business School degree is your competitive advantage! 47

BA (HONS) BUSINESS INNOVATION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP Discover the best ways to put your future enterprises ahead of the competition with a degree in business innovation and entrepreneurship. WELCOME Entrepreneurship is one of the most challenging and rewarding career choices you can make, and we’re here to give you the tools to give you the best chance of success when going out on your own. In our course we will develop your ability to think creatively about business development, putting innovation and leadership at the heart of your future decisions in business. We will give you the skills you need to survive and thrive in your future career, improving your entrepreneurial mindset to a level where you can gain a business edge when you graduate. Our emphasis on ethical business models and sustainability will position you to create long-lasting value for your organisation and you will learn the practical skills needed to venture out on your own. At Staffordshire Business School, we provide a streamlined teaching method, allowing you to focus on one module

at a time. To allow true immersion in each stage of your learning, you will study one topic over a five-week period and receive your provisional results before starting the next module. Our approach focuses on individual skills and will develop your expertise as an independent learner and problem solver, preparing you for a fast-paced, focused career in business. CAREERS A degree in business innovation and entrepreneurship can set you up for a career in any professional business environment. As well as having the tools you need to set up a business in your chosen sector, you’ll also the skills and innovative mindset to flourish in the corporate world. Many of our graduates have gone on to start their own successful businesses, work in larger companies, or continued on to postgraduate level education to further sharpen their expertise.

AWARD

UCAS CODE

Typical UCAS tariff point offer

DURATION

BA (Hons)

N242

112

3 years

BA (Hons) with a foundation year

N245

4 years

BA (Hons) with a placement year

N247

112

4 years

BA (HONS) BUSINESS INNOVATION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP

CONNECTED CURRICULUM During a typical 3-year degree, you will start developing your expertise with a range of modules focused around the broader aspects of business. You will study the importance of innovation in the modern world, with a strong focus on the implementation of data and digital technologies, and the global challenges and opportunities that have opened up in the current economic and political climate. You will also develop a detailed foundation in risk and return, portfolio theory and basic budgeting, alongside social enterprise and modern entrepreneurship and business and government roles in providing a sustainable planet for future generations. Your second year will build on your strongly developed business knowledge from the first, with you delving into your specialist interest in business innovation and entrepreneurship. Module-by-module, you’ll study critical developments in cultural entrepreneurship, giving you the skills to harness diversity and the wider community in your

business. You’ll also study the new-age developments in intrapreneurship in already established businesses and have the opportunity to utilise professional simulation tools to explore functional dynamics and execute business strategies in different sectors. You will become an expert in key drivers in 21st century business, covering value chains in sustainable business development, and learn how to set your future apart from the rest in our module tailored towards business creativity and innovation. Your third year will see you developing your expertise in entrepreneurial strategy, covering the concepts that will help you identify, explore and exploit the opportunities that will be at your fingertips as a business owner. In your final year you’ll also have the unique opportunity to start putting your theories into practice in a module dedicated to you laying the foundations of your own business, or you have the opportunity to work alongside other business students to identify and address a contemporary issue faced by a real organisation in an applied consultancy project.

We offer a foundation year with this degree, for more information please see page 56.

MODULES* YEAR ONE The Future of Work Data and Decision Making Global Challenges and Opportunities Risk and Reward Social Enterprise The Balance of Power

YEAR TWO Entrepreneurship and Culture Intrapreneurship Enterprise in Practice Sustainable Business Development Business Creativity and Innovation

YEAR THREE Entrepreneurial Strategy Innovative Change Management New Venture Creation or Consultancy Project

“JOINING STAFFORDSHIRE UNIVERSITY BUSINESS SCHOOL HAS TURNED OUT TO BE THE BEST DECISION I’VE MADE IN RELATION TO MY CAREER AND FUTURE PROSPECTS.”

CRAIG HOLDCROFT STAFFORDSHIRE BUSINESS SCHOOL ALUMNI Joining Staffordshire University Business School has turned out to be the best decision I’ve made in relation to my career and future prospects. The team at the business school have been amazing and continue to offer me all of the encouragement I could ever want to aim towards a first class degree. Something I couldn’t have even imagined a year before in the world of sales management. 51

BA (HONS) DIGITAL AND SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING Get the edge on the competition in a fast-paced career with a modern degree in digital and social media marketing. WELCOME Digital and social media marketing is changing the world, influencing consumers and decision making both consciously and unconsciously. Put yourself at the forefront of this rapidly growing industry as it leaves traditional marketing methods in its wake. Our specially designed course will give you the opportunity to innovate and develop creative solutions for digital marketing challenges, whether for a start-up, a small independent business, or as part of a wider team at a corporate level. You will learn techniques to corner markets using the latest software, data analytical tools and strategies proven to yield results. At Staffordshire Business School, we combine the theoretical side of traditional marketing with the technology, analytics and customer targeting that goes hand-in-hand with the world of digital marketing. With us, you’ll become an expert in social media platforms, enabling you to not only solve problems within a marketing setting, but identify strengths and weaknesses in business.

Under our experienced academics, you’ll be provided with networking opportunities and live briefs to add experience to the plethora of practical and theoretical skills you’ll learn along the way. At Staffordshire Business School, we provide a streamlined teaching method, allowing you to focus on one module at a time. To allow true immersion in each stage of your learning, you will study one topic over a five-week period and receive your provisional results before starting the next module. Our approach focuses on individual skills and will develop your expertise as an independent learner and problem solver, preparing you for a fast-paced, focused career in business. CAREERS Today’s successful organisations need to promote their products and services through digital media, and when you graduate, you’ll not only have a deep theoretical understanding of online and offline marketing, but practical

AWARD

UCAS CODE

Typical UCAS tariff point offer

DURATION

BA (Hons)

N1NA

112

3 years

BA (Hons) with a foundation year

N1NB

4 years

BA (Hons) with a placement year

N1NC

112

4 years

BA (HONS) DIGITAL AND SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING

experience in implementing strategies and campaigns. You will be suited to a career in digital marketing upon graduation in roles including digital strategist, digital marketing manager, communications manager, social media manager and much more. CONNECTED CURRICULUM During a typical 3-year degree, you will start developing your expertise with a range of modules focused around the broader aspects of business. You will study the importance of innovation in the modern world, with a strong focus on the implementation of data and digital technologies, and the global challenges and opportunities that have opened up in the current economic and political climate. You will also develop a detailed foundation in risk and return, portfolio theory and basic budgeting, alongside social enterprise and modern entrepreneurship and business and government roles in providing a sustainable planet for future generations. Your second year will build on your strongly developed business knowledge from the first, with you delving into your specialist interest in digital and social media

marketing. Module-by-module, you’ll study aspects of marketing, data analysis and strategy than will build your expertise as an all-round modern marketeer. We will give the knowledge to be able to plan effective strategies that are key to success in digital marketing. We will instil the importance of data analysis and visualisation, allowing you to become competent in the tracking and decision making that is involved with data analysis within digital marketing. You will also be introduced to the creative processes of social media, with a choice to get creative in digital content creation and customer experience module, or strategically focused modules in sustainable business development and business creativity and innovation. Your third year will focus partly on building your understanding of ethics in marketing, taking into account emerging ethical issues by modern marketing, while exploring the role of socially responsible digital marketing. You will also have the choice whether to study a module focused on innovative change management, or scenario planning around the risks of corporate reputation as influenced by digital marketing. In your final year you’ll also have the chance address a contemporary issue faced by a real organisation in a consultancy project.

We offer a foundation year with this degree, for more information please see page 56.

MODULES* YEAR ONE The Future of Work Data and Decision Making Global Challenges and Opportunities Risk and Reward Social Enterprise The Balance of Power

YEAR TWO Digital Marketing Strategy Data Analysis and Visualisation Social Media Strategy (elective choice for other awards) Digital Content Creation Digital Customer Experience

YEAR THREE Ethics in Marketing Consultancy Project (40 credits) Corporate Reputation

“THEY’RE JUST SECOND TO NONE, THE SUPPORT AND EVERYTHING THAT THEY PROVIDE YOU WITH REALLY SHAPES YOU TO BE INDUSTRY READY AND READY FOR THE WORLD OF WORK.”

JESS OLIVER STAFFORDSHIRE BUSINESS SCHOOL ALUMNI I would absolutely recommend being a student of Staffordshire Business School. They’re just second to none, the support and everything that they provide you with really shapes you to be industry ready and ready for the world of work. I would recommend it to any student any prospective student who’s looking and to be enrolled in one of these courses you will not regret it. 55

FOUNDATION YEAR STUDY

All the courses at Staffordshire Business School are available to study with a foundation year. Our foundation years are connected across all courses, offer an excellent base knowledge that acts as a stepping stone into degree level study, and extend your total study time to four years. A foundation year is ideal for you if you didn’t quite get the grades required to go straight into degree-level study, or you want to refresh your business knowledge to make sure you get the best from your degree. Our foundation year hosts a variety on modules that focus on business performance, people management, communication and business environments. It also culminates in a larger scale business simulation project, in which you’ll put your business prowess to the test, using simulation tools to explore the dynamics of modern enterprise.

FOUNDATION YEAR MODULES* YEAR ONE Communication in the Digital Age Managing People for Planet and Profit Business Performance External Business Environments Business Simulation Project

*This module list is indicative and based on a typical 3-year degree. For an up-to-date module list please refer to website.

OPTIONAL MODULES

During your studies at Staffordshire Business School you will have the opportunity to select from a range of optional modules (up to two per year depending on your course). Our optional modules are constantly changing to align with business and industry needs to ensure that you get the best and most relevant skills to match your career ambitions and allow you to hit-the-ground-running when you graduate. These credit-bearing optional modules will compliment your compulsory modules, further developing your expertise in particular subjects, or giving you a broader knowledge to bolster your professional profile when you graduate. Below is a list of some of the types of optional modules you might have the opportunity to study during your time at Staffordshire Business School.

OPTIONAL MODULES* YEAR ONE Enterprise in Practice (core for BIE)

Leading for Organisational Impact

Social Media Strategy (core for DSSM)

PRINCE2 Agile

FinTech and Digitisation (core for BFE)

Psychology in Business

Entrepreneurial Finance (core for BFE and BIE)

AI and Big Data

Web Development and Design

Work Placement

*This indicative list of possible optional module courses is subject to change.

VISITOR ATTRACTION AND RESORT MANAGEMENT Grab the chance to become an expert on a fast-evolving industry. WELCOME Do you want to be a part of a team that creates lifechanging experiences for millions of people across the country? Our Visitor Attraction and Resort Management foundation degree puts you in the driving seat in an industry that is adapting to new and challenging global events. On our unique course, you will not only benefit from the knowledge of expert academics within the University, you’ll be guaranteed a 20-week paid placement in retail, hotel

and park operations with Alton Towers Resort, part of the Merlin Entertainment group. This combination of industry pioneering academic delivery and real-world practical experience will give you the skills, contacts and expertise you need to launch a career when you finish studying. As well as gaining a foundation degree In Visitor Attraction and Resort Management, you graduate with the chance to top up your qualification to a BA (Hons) degree, with just an extra years study.

AWARD

UCAS CODE

Typical UCAS tariff point offer

DURATION

FdA

N834

2 years

VISITOR ATTRACTION AND RESORT MANAGEMENT

CAREERS Students will have the opportunity to apply for career vacancies within Alton Towers and the wider Merlin group following successful completion of the programme.

visitor attraction and resort management. You will also start your employment at Alton Towers Resort, completing half of your allocated 20-week placement, in roles that best suit your career aspirations and the needs of the industry.

There are many roles in this sector, which includes museums, galleries, gardens, historic properties, country parks, steam railways and theme parks. Jobs are available for full-time, part-time and seasonal staff, and roles vary from operations manager to human resources coordinator.

In your second year you will develop the expertise you have started to gain through the experience and study within the first year. You will tackle the fields of leadership and organisational change management, the art of marketing and communications, and become fluent in the current issues in the visitor attraction and resort management industry. You will also be exposed the higher-level aspects of the industry, including strategic management and issues surrounding legal liability. In the second year, you’ll gain more practical experience in the industry as well, completing the second half of your paid placement at Alton Towers Resort, at a minimum of Team Leader level.

THE EXPERIENCE In your first year of study you will be introduced the management side of visitor attractions in a modern environment. You will study modules in hospitality, conference and hotel management, as well as in introduction to human resource management, and insights to the customer experience and the operational side of

We offer a foundation year with this degree, for more information please see page 56.

MODULES YEAR ONE An Introduction to Human Resource Management Conference and Events Management Hospitality and Hotel Management Managing the Customer Experience Placement 1 Professional Skills in the Workplace Visitor Attraction and Resort Business Environment Visitor Attraction and Resort Management Operations

YEAR TWO Business Development and Sales Management Current Issues in Visitor Attraction and Resort Management Finance and Revenue Management in the Leisure Industry Leadership and Organisational Change Management Marketing and Digital Communications Placement 2 Strategic Visitor Attraction and Resort Management Understanding Legal Liability in Visitor Attraction and Resort Management

“IT ALLOWS YOU TO GAIN EXPERIENCE IN A VARIETY OF DEPARTMENTS ACROSS ALTON TOWERS RESORT AND IMPLEMENT YOUR ACADEMIC KNOWLEDGE INTO THE VISITOR ATTRACTION INDUSTRY.”

CHARLOTTE HALL STAFFORDSHIRE BUSINESS SCHOOL ALUMNI The Visitor Attraction Resort Management course at Staffordshire University is a great course because it allows you to gain experience in a variety of departments across Alton Towers Resort and implement your academic knowledge into the Visitor Attraction industry.

NOTES

OPEN DAYS An open day is the perfect way for you to find out everything you need to know about Staffordshire Business School, explore our facilities and meet the team.

SATURDAY 12 JUNE 2021 THURSDAY 12 AUGUST 2021 SATURDAY 14 AUGUST 2021 TBC SEPTEMBER 2021

Book your place at staffs.ac.uk/evolving-business

Find out how to book an Open Day

TOP 15

FOR SOCIAL INCLUSION The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2021

TOP 15

FOR TEACHING QUALITY The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2021

SHORTLISTED FOR

UNIVERSITY OF THE YEAR Times Higher Education Awards 2020

Staffordshire Business School holds Small Business Charter accreditation Staffordshire Business School awarded PRME Champion status

Find us on: www.staffs.ac.uk/socialmedia

101971 04.2021

For more detailed information on courses or studying at Staffordshire Business School visit: www.staffs.ac.uk/undergraduate

Staffordshire Business School – 2021 Course Guide

Articles inside

Important Information

Higher And Degree Apprenticeships

The Cost Of Success

Working While You Study

UCAS Points And What They Mean

Your Future Careers

Work Hard Play Hard

Student Support Networks

The Students’ Union

Part Of A Great University

Ways To Join Us

Application Journey

Making Business Your Home

The Heart Of Business

Welcome To Staffordshire Business School

Our Unique Learning Experience