RGU 2013 PG ACCOUNTING & FINANCE

Accounting and finance it all adds up POSTGRADUATE COURSES IN ACCOUNTING AND FINANCE SEPTEMBER 2013 AND JANUARY 2014

A TOP-RATED UNIVERSITY FOR EMPLOYABILITY

WE've invested over ÂŁ120 Million in our amazing campus development www.rgu.ac.uk/newbuild

Our landmark tower houses our library, located in our new building, Riverside East.

A TOP-RATED UNIVERSITY FOR EMPLOYABILITY 96% of our postgraduatE STUDENTS are in work or further study six months after graduating.

(HESA 2011)

FULL COURSE LISTING ABERDEEN BUSINESS SCHOOL ACCOUNTING AND FINANCE Accounting and Finance Financial Management Oil and Gas Accounting Strategic Accounting (with CIMA)

Communication, Marketing and Media Corporate Communication and Public Affairs Fashion Management International Marketing Management International Tourism and Hospitality Management Journalism

Computing Information and Network Security Information Engineering Information Engineering with Network Management IT for the Oil and Gas Industry IT Management Software Technology Software Technology with Network Management

Engineering Asset Integrity Management Communications and Computer Network Engineering Drilling and Well Engineering Energy and Sustainability

Information Management

Offshore Renewables

Graduate Certificate Information Studies

Oil and Gas Engineering

Information and Library Studies

Petroleum Production Engineering

Information Management

Subsea Engineering

MBA Information Management

GRAY’S SCHOOL OF ART

Law

Fine Art*

Certificate Mediation

Design*

Construction Law and Arbitration Diploma in Professional Legal Practice Employment Law and Practice International Commercial Law Oil and Gas Law

Management Graduate Certificate Management Studies Graduate Certificate Project Management Business Management (BA) Energy Management Health, Safety and Risk Management Human Resource Management International Business

FACULTY OF HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE Applied Social Studies Corporate Social Responsibility and Energy Energy and Sustainability Social Work

Health Sciences Clinical Biomechanics Health Promotion and Public Health* Physiotherapy (pre-registration) Radiographic Studies (DipHE) Sports Biomechanics

International Tourism and Hospitality Management

Nursing and Midwifery

Leadership & Management

Advanced Clinical Practice

Management

Clinical Practice

Master of Business Administration

Advanced District Nursing*

Master of Public Administration

Nursing (Nurse-led Practice)

MBA Information Management

Occupational Health Practice*

MBA Oil and Gas Management

Public Health Nursing*

Project Management Purchasing and Supply Chain Management Quality Management

FACULTY OF DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY Architecture and Built Environment Architectural Studies Commercial Practice for the Energy Sectors Construction Project Management Design Management Energy and Sustainability

Pharmacy and Life Sciences Advanced Pharmacy Practice Clinical Pharmacy Practice (Hospital/Community) Instrumental Analytical Science DNA Analysis, Proteomics and Metabolomics Instrumental Analytical Science Drug Analysis and Toxicology Instrumental Analytical Science Environmental Analysis Instrumental Analytical Science Oilfield Chemicals Overseas Pharmacists Assessment Programme

Graduate Diploma in Surveying MArch part 2 Property Development

*Subject to validation

CONTENTS INTRODUCTION Welcome Why study A Postgraduate course?

Aberdeen Business School Our department staff YOUR Career options Careers & Employment centre Professional Development After you leave

3 4 7 11 13 14 16 18 21

Courses OUR COURSES Module glossary

22 32

FURTHER INFORMATION How to apply FEES AND FUNDING Research Student support ACCOMMODATION LOCATION Index

39 40 42 44 46 48 50

NEW COURSES COMING SOON! Under development and planned for 2014/2015 Digital Marketing Organisational Learning Offshore Oil and Gas Engineering Visualisation in Architecture and Built Environment Discover more at www.rgu.ac.uk/pipeline

ACCOUNTING AND FINANCE

AROUND 1,100 CANDIDATES FROM OVER 90 COUNTRIES JOIN OUR POSTGRADUATE PROGRAMMES EACH YEAR. OUR COURSES ADD REAL VALUE IN THE LABOUR MARKET AND ALLOW YOU TO DIFFERENTIATE YOURSELF. OUR GRADUATES FIND OUR PROGRAMMES CHALLENGING, INVIGORATING AND ENJOYABLE.

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WELCOME FROM THE DEAN OF ABERDEEN BUSINESS SCHOOL

The decision to undertake further study is a major one. Choosing the right programme that fits with your educational and career development aims is very important. This decision will have potential to influence your future professional career and your ability to perform in that career. Aberdeen Business School has an excellent reputation in the higher education sector – Robert Gordon University continues to be rated top modern university in Scotland and the UK. At Aberdeen Business School we have one of the strongest portfolios of quality courses. Our courses are accredited by the Association of MBAs (AMBA), Chartered Institute of Personnel Development (CIPD) and The Institute of Export.

Reflecting our vocational strength we are accredited by and have links to The Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR), the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP), Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb), and The Chartered Institute of Purchasing & Supply (CIPS).

It is for this reason that around 1,100 candidates from over 90 countries join our postgraduate programmes each year. Our courses add real value in the labour market and allow you to differentiate yourself. Our graduates find our programmes challenging, but also invigorating and enjoyable. Whether you are a recent graduate wishing to develop a career path or whether you are an experienced candidate returning to study, there is a course for you.

Professor Rita Marcella Dean, Aberdeen Business School

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BETTER EMPLOYABILITY? BETTER STUDY AT RGU. Whether you have recently graduated, want professional accreditation, are looking to retrain or develop your career – whatever your reasons for postgraduate study – we offer a wide range of courses with flexible study modes including online, part-time or full-time to fit around your needs.

We are a top-rated university for employability with an impressive 96% employment rate, giving you that crucial competitive edge within a crowded jobs market.

We produce high-calibre graduates with highly desirable skills who are snapped up by recruiters and head-hunted by the best in the business. So be prepared to improve and succeed! www.rgu.ac.uk/better WHY STUDY A POSTGRADUATE DEGREE AT ROBERT GORDON UNIVERSITY?

An inspirational environment The £120 million campus development includes our stunning new building, Riverside East. Find out more at www.rgu.ac.uk/newbuild Research Our research success is just as impressive, with 70% of our research receiving international recognition in the 2008 Research Assessment Exercise.

Economic effects Pressure on the jobs market means graduates now face the difficult process of job hunting within a very competitive environment. This has created the perfect opportunity to undertake a postgraduate degree.

Building your brand Developing your knowledge demonstrates a high level of dedication to prospective employers. Recruiters are also keen to see transferable skills gained through further study.

Engaging with employers We work closely with employers at every stage to ensure our courses prepare you for the professional world; from course development and accreditation to guest speakers and placements.

Continuing Professional Development Lifelong learning is now considered to be an integral part of your own personal development, allowing you to keep abreast of innovations within your own profession.

A commitment to students Our student-centric approach and reputation means that students invest in us time and again to assist them on their way to their chosen career.

Planning a new career Planning a change of direction into a new career can be an exciting but challenging process. Some career changes will be relatively easy to achieve and others may require acquiring new skills and knowledge.

Track record 96% of our postgraduates are in work or further study 6 months after graduating (HESA 2011) Named Best Modern University in the UK in The Times Good University Guide 2012 Awarded Scottish University of the Year in The Sunday Times University Guide 2011

POSTGRADUATE OPEN EVENINGS

These events give you the opportunity to speak directly with Course Leaders, see the campus and our facilities and ask any questions you may have regarding finance or your application.

For more information on forthcoming Open Evenings visit www.rgu.ac.uk/openevening

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Placements Employers value work experience. It shows that you have industry experience to complement your degree and demonstrates an added commitment to the sector. They also give you the opportunity to sample prospective roles whilst building up business contacts to use in your future career.

PRESSURE ON THE JOBS MARKET MEANS GRADUATES NOW FACE THE DIFFICULT PROCESS OF JOB HUNTING WITHIN A VERY COMPETITIVE ENVIRONMENT. THIS HAS CREATED THE PERFECT OPPORTUNITY TO UNDERTAKE FURTHER TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE THROUGH A POSTGRADUATE DEGREE.

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ABERDEEN BUSINESS SCHOOL REPUTATION

ACCREDITATION

Aberdeen Business School (ABS) is one of the leading providers of management and professional business education in Scotland.

The Association of Business Schools (ABS) We are a member of the professional body which represents the leading business schools of UK universities.

The achievements and continuing success of our graduates in their careers is a true mark of the high quality and recognition given to the postgraduate and undergraduate programmes delivered at the School.

As one of the leading providers of management and professional education in Scotland, Aberdeen Business School has established links with industry, commerce and the public sector.

The Association of MBAs (AMBA) Accredited by the AMBA, we are one of only a handful of institutions worldwide to be accredited in respect of every form of the MBA. The Financial Times 2007 lists our e-MBA as one of the Top 32 online and distance learning MBAs available globally.

This enables us to design practical, innovative courses which offer students an exceptional learning experience. Our reputation is built on providing employers with professional individuals who have the best technical and personal skills and fully prepares our graduates for their chosen career.

STRONG INDUSTRY LINKS ABS has a long and well established history of providing placements for our students and has fostered strong links with the business community, both locally and nationally. Placements are an important part of the majority of our courses at undergraduate level and a number at postgraduate.

We have a dedicated Placement Office which sources placements for our students, as well as providing assistance with CVs and interview techniques.

Placements are an invaluable part of what we do at ABS and allow our students to be ‘job-ready’ upon graduating.

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OUR COURSES To ensure we provide courses to the highest academic standard and relevant to your chosen professional field, we continue to build on our strong links with the professional business community both nationally and internationally. Therefore, graduates from our accredited and approved courses can be confident that they hold a nationally and internationally recognised award which will open doors and enhance their career opportunities.

Completing an accredited course will allow you to become a member of the issuing professional body.

CAREER PROSPECTS Our relentless focus on professional education means our graduates are not just ready to work, but are also equipped to make an enduring and valuable contribution to industry and the professions on a regional, national and global scale. We are extremely proud of our graduate record at ABS and believe it is our inspirational teaching and practical courses that make our graduates such desirable candidates.

STAFF We’re proud of our teaching staff; proud of their quality and academic achievements as well as the practical experience they have in their area. Our professors, lecturers and tutors combine first-class qualifications with time spent in business or industry.

They offer insight from both worlds – the theoretical and practical – to help inspire you. Aberdeen Business School is split into five departments: Accounting and Finance; Management; Communication, Marketing and Media; Law and Information Management.

Our research institute, IMaGeS (Institute for Management, Governance and Society) has three themes: Business & Enterprise; Information & Communication; and Governance & Society.

Associated with the Institute, we have research centres in Entrepreneurship, Public Policy, International Labour Markets and Transport Policy.

For more information please visit: www.rgu.ac.uk/research/images GLOBAL COMMUNITY You will join a truly international student population, and have the opportunity to meet, study and socialise with people from many backgrounds and cultures.

For our international students, this interaction also helps to improve English language skills and whilst studying in Aberdeen you will also have the chance to find out about Scotland and the culture of this unique 8 A CLEAR FUTURE

area of the UK. ABS is also an internationally focused business school, we rank joint 13th in Western Europe’s ‘Excellent Business Schools’ – the 3 Palmes category of eduniversal.com.

FACILITIES Our students benefit from a range of facilities housed within Aberdeen Business School. Our spacious lecture theatres are equipped with the latest teaching facilities, including Personal Response System (PRS) technology. PRS allows for an interactive teaching experience between students and lecturers. The PRS system allows staff to introduce quizzes and polls into the lecture which we believe gives our students a fuller learning experience and helps them to understand their subjects in greater detail. We are also in the process of introducing One Touch technology which allows lectures to be recorded live, a feature that will be a huge benefit to our distance-learning students. To take a virtual tour of our facilities visit: www.rgu.ac.uk/virtualtours Moot Court Law students benefit from our Moot Court.

The purpose-built courtroom is fitted with recording equipment for filming assessments and debates, meaning our students have the chance to put Law theory into practice.

TV studio and radio station Our television studio and radio station have been designed to give our communication and media students the opportunity to work with industry-standard equipment. This prior knowledge is invaluable when forging a career in the media.

Library The library is home to a huge number of books, journals, e-learning materials, DVDs, research and exam papers, all available for our students to use during their studies.

LOCATION Located within the Garthdee campus, on the banks of the River Dee in the south-side of the city, Aberdeen Business School’s setting is both inspiring and contemporary, themes that are reflected in all of our courses delivered at the school. Ten minutes from the city centre, the campus is accessible and inviting.

The lush parkland campus on the banks of the river makes it an ideal setting for your studies.

For more information on ABS, visit: www.rgu.ac.uk/aberdeenbusinessschool

OUR RELENTLESS FOCUS ON PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION MEANS OUR GRADUATES ARE NOT JUST READY TO WORK, BUT ARE ALSO EQUIPPED TO MAKE AN ENDURING AND VALUABLE CONTRIBUTION TO INDUSTRY AND THE PROFESSIONS ON A REGIONAL, NATIONAL AND GLOBAL SCALE.

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OUR DEPARTMENT “Within the department our focus is on delivering high-quality theoretical and applied accounting and finance education.

Our students benefit from the opportunity to develop the appropriate skills to become effective practitioners and researchers in their chosen area of accounting and finance, including oil and gas.

Our department has an excellent reputation for providing high-quality education and this is underpinned and informed by research and corporate engagement.

The vision for our programme of courses is to ensure we equip our graduates for career progression. Central to this is a mutual understanding that students must be ready to meet the challenges and opportunities of a changing economic and business environment.

Our courses are continuously developing and we are dedicated to providing our students with the best possible learning experience.

We look forward to welcoming you onto one of our courses and wish you every success in the future.�

Elizabeth Gammie Head of Department ACCREDITATION

Accounting and Finance is one of five departments within Aberdeen Business School. The department offers a range of specialist accounting and finance courses at both undergraduate and postgraduate level.

Our portfolio of postgraduate courses provides MSc level courses that will further develop your theoretical and applied accounting and finance skills.

These aim to provide you with the skills necessary to develop your career to the most senior level roles within an accounting or finance environment in a variety of sectors.

The department is internationally recognised for its research output and is consistently rated by students as having excellent teachers and tutors. Staff are drawn from a range of pure research and commercial business backgrounds. Several members are, for example, members of the UK and global professional accounting bodies and nationally recognised for their participation at senior level in bodies such as CIMA and ICAS. Research plays a vital role in underpinning all levels of teaching and the curriculum. Our students are made aware of the research being undertaken through access to published output and invitation to research seminars.

Students have the opportunity to have their dissertation supervised by an active researcher.

Industry Links The Accounting and Finance department has strong links within industry, the public sector and professional bodies which ensure courses are practical, highly relevant and underpinned by applied research.

The department has broad experience of providing research and corporate programmes to both industry and the accounting profession.

EXTERNAL SPEAKERS Practitioners are regularly involved in the delivery of key modules within each course. They participate in a number of ways from holding guest lectures to providing topical issues to be covered throughout the course.

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FACILITIES

Research

The University buildings at the Garthdee campus provide high-quality teaching and learning environments, as well as providing excellent library, IT and other learning facilities.

In the 2008 UK Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) the Department achieved recognition for their excellent research with 70% being of international standard.

The department was one of only 14 departments in the UK to submit in this specialist area. This research rating further consolidates the reputation of the department which is renowned for its teaching capability and demonstrates that the department is a key player in the accounting and finance academic community.

Facilities of the library include: • Vast range of books and journals plus fast access to databases, ebooks and other online resources • Quiet study areas • Meeting rooms for group work • IT and printing facilities • Wireless internet access OUR PHILOSOPHY We strive to provide dynamic courses with a strong vocational focus. To support this, delivery and development of course content is informed through our relationships with relevant industries at several levels. It is our belief that students should be employable immediately upon graduating and then continue to develop and learn throughout their working lives.

Research is central to the vision of the University and, consistent with this, a thriving research culture has been developed within the Accounting and Finance department. The department has achieved significant success in terms of publications in internationally ranked refereed journals and has hosted a number of conferences.

The department undertakes research in a range of areas, with a particular focus in accounting on the areas of Accounting Education and Critical Accounting.

In Finance the range of areas covered include capital structure, dividend policy, financial market efficiency, sustainable growth models and financial forecasting.

Oil and Gas Accounting is a developing area of research strength for the department, which was further enhanced with the appointment of Professor Alex Russell (the Chair of the Oil Industry Finance Association – the body who sets Standard Oil Accounting Procedures for the North Sea oil industry) in 2010.

The department also has a thriving PhD community and enquiries from potential students are welcomed.

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STAFF PROFESSOR ELIZABETH GAMMIE

ALEX MACKAY

Head of Department of Accounting and Finance

Course Leader, Accounting and Finance

Professor Gammie is a very experienced academic who is a well respected accountancy researcher as well as being responsible for course development and delivery of high-quality accountancy education.

She joined the University in 1988 after qualifying as a chartered accountant with Ernst and Whinney. She has undertaken significant programme development, designing courses at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. She has published extensively in the areas of professional accounting education and gender and she sits on the Editorial Boards of several journals. Elizabeth is actively involved with professional accounting organisations and currently sits on the Technical Policy Board, the TPE Examination Board and Council of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland and the Expert Review Group of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants.

Alex joined the University in 1994. He is a member of the Chartered Institute of Public Financial Accounting and has a background of working in senior financial and accounting posts in both the health and education sector. He contributes to a number of postgraduate courses and is responsible for all three accounting and finance degrees: MSc Oil and Gas Accounting, MSc Accounting and Finance, and the MSc in Financial Management. Alex is also involved in a number of activities relating to the School’s international postgraduate students, including overseas recruitment and organising social activities.

KAREN LUND

Course Leader, Oil and Gas Accounting Karen joined the University in 2008 after having established herself in the accounting profession.

She trained as a chartered accountant with Deloitte and after several years’ experience in accounting practice, moved into the oil and gas industry. Karen has gained extensive experience in a variety of audit, accounting and senior financial controller roles in several international locations within large organisations such as Transocean and BP plc. She has previously been involved with the Student Education Committee of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland.

She teaches on our undergraduate, postgraduate and MBA programmes.

DR FAROOQ AHMAD

Course Leader, Financial Management Farooq joined the University in 2005 after completing his PhD in Finance from the University of Stirling.

His main research area is gilt market, fixed income securities and financial markets efficiency analysis.

He specialises in undergraduate and postgraduate teaching of Finance Theory, Corporate Financial Management and International Finance. Farooq has previously worked as Lecturer and Assistant Professor of Finance at the Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, and as Post Doctoral Research Fellow at the Research Department of the State Bank of Pakistan.

Brenda Paver

Course Leader, MSc Strategic Accounting (with CIMA) and BA Accounting (with CIMA Advanced Diploma) Brenda joined the university in 2000 and teaches both at undergraduate and postgraduate level, with a particular interest in Management Accounting. She trained as a Chartered Accountant with Coopers and Lybrand, spending time in insolvency and audit working for a diverse range of clients. Her subsequent move from practice into industry gave her experience of both financial and management accounting at divisional and head office level. Brenda is involved with developing the online distance learning Accounting with CIMA programme at Undergraduate and Postgraduate level.

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YOUR CAREER OPTIONS Knowledge of finance or accounting and the relevant skills which you have developed are useful in a huge range of sectors. Opportunities are widely available within accountancy firms, investment banks, high street banks, insurance companies, building societies, management consultancies and public sector employers. The most prominent graduate recruiters are the very large multinational accountancy firms.

They use large-scale recruitment campaigns to attract the most promising graduates.

Chartered Accountant

Management Accountant

Chartered accountants provide trustworthy information about financial records. This might involve financial reporting, taxation, auditing, forensic accounting, corporate finance, business recovery and insolvency, or accounting systems and processes. Generally, they play a strategic role by providing professional advice, aiming to maximise profitability on behalf of their client or employer. They work in many different settings, including public-practice firms, industry and commerce, as well as in the not-for-profit and public sectors.

A chartered management accountant applies the principles of accounting to provide the financial information necessary for the planning and financial protection of organisations in the public and private sectors. They establish and maintain financial policies and management information systems, as well as liaise with management colleagues on all aspects of finance.

The role combines accounting skills with business management skills. Chartered management accountants look to the future (rather than the past, as in auditing).

They analyse the performance of a business and advise on how to pre-empt problems, adapt to changing circumstances and improve value.

Operational Investment Banker The operations division of an investment bank is often described as the ‘engine room’ of the organisation.

Operations (also known as ‘back office’, and sometimes ‘middle office’) provide support to the client-facing departments, such as trading, corporate finance, and corporate banking (which are sometimes known as the ‘front office’). The front office generates business for the bank, and operations ensures that the business is administered in an efficient, controlled, risk-free and timely manner.

Financial Advisor Financial advisers provide clients with advice on financial matters, making recommendations on ways to best utilise their money. The role involves advising clients on products and services available, ensuring they are aware of and understand those that best meet their needs, and then securing a sale.

Stockbroker Stockbrokers invest in bond and equity securities and various financial products on behalf of institutional, corporate and private clients. They make recommendations on buying and selling stocks based on their interpretation of financial market information provided by analysts.

When providing services for private investors, they are known as private-client stockbrokers, investment managers or wealth managers. Stockbrokers also work within financial institutions such as stockbroking and investment management companies.

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WANT TO KNOW MORE? This is just a small selection of career opportunities available. Find out more by reading our course details from pages 22 through to 36.

Corporate Treasurer

Financial Risk Analyst

Corporate treasurers play a vital role in improving and maintaining the financial standing of a wide range of companies. They are often responsible for determining financial strategy and policy, arranging the appropriate funding and managing financial risks in the organisation.

Financial risk analysts identify and analyse the areas of potential risk threatening the assets, earning capacity or success of organisations in the industrial, commercial or public sector. They are sometimes called risk managers. They have the responsibility of predicting change, forecasting cost to the organisation and predicting future trends.

Investment Analyst An investment analyst undertakes research to provide ideas and information to fund managers. The analysts provide information which enables fund managers to make decisions relating to the investment portfolios they manage.

Pensions Consultant Pensions consultants offer pensions services and solutions to companies and organisations. The creation and development of this career reflects recent changes in pensions legislation and management, with the result that organisations are increasingly using third-party organisations to manage pensions provision to their staff.

The role of the pensions consultant will, therefore, continue to develop in importance within the pensions industry.

Financial Controller Finance controllers have knowledge of all aspects of a company’s finances. For example, the finance controller does job tasks such as preparation of financial statements, budget reports, forecasts, cost analysis reports, profit or loss statements, recommendations for spending or cost cuts, SEC reports, and supervision of other accountants in the company. Also, the finance controller makes certain that the financial books are prepared accurately, that all aspects of the company’s finances are properly documented, that any money that is due to the company is collected, and makes sure that any company expenses are paid.

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CAREERs & EMPLOYABILITY Centre We are on hand to help you reach informed decisions regarding your future career, to assist you in achieving your goals and to provide a framework enabling you to cope with subsequent careers decisions.

CV and Application Forms Support

Employer On-Campus Presentations

We support you in understanding how to sell your skills and experiences to employers both in the UK and beyond, ensuring that the information is tailored to the position and sector you are applying to.

Employers are keen to speak to our students directly, to facilitate this we arrange on-campus recruitment and applications skills presentations where employers can raise the profile of their company and provide more information on the opportunities that they have as well as the benefits of working for that company and a chance for you to ask questions.

Interview Preparation Within the Careers & Employability Centre we support you in understanding what is expected of you, and the types of questions you may be asked and how to respond professionally. We also offer mock interview sessions.

Where are the opportunities?

The Graduate Job market can be very daunting, knowing where to look for opportunities and understanding closing dates. We support you by identifying resources (both online and paper, UK and globally) that you can access as well as advertising opportunities through JOBSHOP.

On-Course Delivery Each Careers Consultant is assigned a caseload, and they liaise closely with Course Leaders to tailor on– course careers input to ensure that you are given the most up-to-date careers information relevant to your degree area.

Online Resources Our website, as well as course specific Campus Moodle pages, has been created to convey career specific information to you. We have also recently launched our online employability module ‘Preparing to Succeed’.

Part-Time Work We understand the need to work part-time in order to help finance your studies, enhance your work experience and document your skills. We arrange a part-time Jobs Fair in the first week of teaching in September and provide you access to our online part-time Jobs Portal.

Careers Fairs We organise two large scale Careers Fairs per year, The RGU Careers Fair in October and the North of Scotland Graduate Careers Fair in Spring. These fairs provide you with the opportunity to speak to graduate recruiters and understand more about their opportunities and the recruitment process before applying for vacancies.

Weekly Workshops In conjunction with key events, we deliver tailored presentations and workshops on areas such as securing part time work, how to complete application forms and the importance of networking to support you in your search for graduate employment. These workshops are open to all students.

Campus Moodle You can also access our services through the website or Campus Moodle. You can also submit questions by email, or request a phone or Skype interview.

For more information visit www.rgu.ac.uk/careers

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PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT For individuals looking for Continuing Professional Development, we offer a diverse range of accredited postgraduate courses and study options to suit your needs.

If you are an employer interested in training and development for your workforce our Business Services team will work with you to identify your organisation’s requirements.

CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT (CPD) It is important to manage your own career and personal development is the key in achieving this.

What is CPD about?

Professional development is now a fundamental part of our working lives. It allows you to: • Formalise your experience • Keep up to date professionally • Develop your existing skills and knowledge • Make a successful career move • Gain accreditation from a professional body Professional Development at RGU Managing your career to ensure you have the up-todate skills required by employers is essential in today’s increasingly competitive job market. All our modules are delivered through online distance learning, providing the flexibility to study whenever and wherever suits you. You can: • Try stand alone tasters allow you to try out a new subject and the experience of studying online • Access flexible, relevant learning to enable you to manage your career more effectively • Study one or more modules to develop your knowledge or support a change of specialism Should you decide to work towards a graduate or postgraduate award up to a full Masters degree you may be able to transfer the credits accumulated. Many of our modules are accredited by professional bodies.

For further information visit www.rgu.ac.uk/profdev

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Aberdeen Business School has always been at the forefront in responding to the growing need for Continuing Professional Development (CPD). The School offers a variety of ways of studying (part-time, open and online) which help to meet the variety of CPD needs of those who are already in employment.

Most of the modules on our postgraduate courses can be taken on a free-standing basis and may contribute to your own Continuing Professional Development (CPD).

Since these modules form part of an assessed learning programme they provide you with an accredited qualification as well as giving you up-to-date knowledge in the subject area of your choice.

• Accounting & Finance/Business Administration/ Law/Marketing Project Management/Construction Law & Arbitration module • LLM Oil & Gas Law Modules • Info Management/HR Management/ Communications & Media • Public Policy For more information on CPD opportunities at Aberdeen Business School please contact us E: ABSpostgrad@rgu.ac.uk

Business Services

• Subsea Engineering (Energy Institute accredited)

We work with UK and overseas organisations and governments to provide accredited and customised learning and development solutions.

• Petroleum Production Engineering (Energy Institute accredited)

What we can do for you We spend time with clients to understand their specific needs and objectives to identify training and competency gaps:

• Asset Integrity Management (Energy Institute accredited) • Purchasing and Supply Chain Management (CIPS accredited) • Health, Safety and Risk Management

• Industry-relevant, award-bearing educational programmes, from graduate certificates to Masters programmes and MBAs.

• Commercial Practice for the Energy Sectors

• Training customised to meet specific business requirements; from short courses to in-depth programmes.

• Occupational Health Practice

• Consultancy interventions such as Training Needs Analyses and Innovation Audits, Contract Research, Business Simulation exercises and maintenance of a productive and healthy workforce and environment.

• Competency and Capability Assurance: partnering with you to bridge competency and skills gaps .

With access to a wide range of both University and industry experts, we can provide programmes either directly from our existing courses or developed from our expertise within the following specialist areas: • Management • Law • Engineering • Accounting and Finance • Computing • Health To ensure our programmes are fit for purpose, we have developed courses in conjunction with industry through specialist expertise within the Engineering School’s Energy Centre, Aberdeen Business School and the Faculty of Health and Social Care to meet market requirements. Courses relevant to the Oil and Gas industry include : • Energy Management • Project Management (APM, PMI accredited) • Quality Management (CQI accredited) • MBA and MBA Oil & Gas Management (AMBA accredited) • Oil and Gas Accounting • Oil and Gas Law (CIArb accredited) • Offshore Renewables

• Corporate Social Responsibility with Energy • Health Improvement and Health Promotion Industry links The University’s strength lies in working directly with industry to understand its needs and objectives, which in turn shapes the courses we deliver. Based in the European capital for Oil & Gas technology and expertise gives us a significant advantage and ability to engage at high level with international and national oil and service companies such as Shell, Chevron, Sonatrach in Algeria, PdVSA in Venezuela and PetroChina. We also work closely with national and local industry bodies such as UKTI, IMechE, Subsea UK and the Energy Institute.

Flexibility We can deliver training in Aberdeen, via Online Distance Learning (ODL) or through blended learning (ODL supported by in-country teaching) allowing you flexibility where operational demands and geographic spread can restrict traditional learning routes.

Customisation Our flexibility and ability to customise programmes are key factors for us in providing development programmes that will help your organisation to maximise the potential of your workforce.

HOW TO CONTACT US business@rgu.ac.uk T: +44 (0)1224 263320 Head of New Business Debbie Miller business@rgu.ac.uk T +44 (0) 1224 263171 Mobile: +44 (0)7920 818938 Business Development Manager Greg Sloan g.sloan@rgu.ac.uk T: +44 (0)1224 263332

• Oil and Gas Engineering (Energy Institute accredited) • Drilling and Well Engineering (Energy Institute accredited) 19

ACCOUNTING AND FINANCE

AS AN ALUMNUS YOU ENJOY LIFELONG CONNECTIONS WITH OTHER ALUMNI AND THE UNIVERSITY. THE ALUMNI MAGAZINE AND RECENT INITIATIVES LIKE BUSINESS NETWORKING ON ‘LINKEDIN’ AND EMAIL FOR LIFE, HAVE DRAWN OUR COMMUNITY CLOSER. IT’S GREAT TO SEE SUCH INNOVATIVE INITIATIVES DEVELOPED BY THE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION, OPENING UP OPPORTUNITIES TO GET MORE INVOLVED. SACHIN RAJSHEKHAR SAMSON, REGIONAL MANAGER AT ZENITH SOFTWARE, MELBOURNE

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AFTER YOU LEAVE University life doesn’t end after graduation. Our Alumni Association supports our worldwide community of over 70,000 graduates. We keep our graduates in touch with the University and each other, with a range of exclusive benefits and services.

BENEFITS AND SERVICES FOR ALUMNI Connect and Nexus Online Alumni magazine and bi-monthly electronic bulletin keeping you up to date.

Careers support Giving you access to a range of services available from the Robert Gordon University Careers & Employability Centre.

Email for life You will never need to change your email address again.

All alumni are eligible to receive a free University email account for life.

Find a friend service Helping you keep in touch with former classmates and link up with other graduates living in your area.

Alumni loyalty discount Providing 15% off postgraduate course fees to graduates of Robert Gordon University with an undergraduate degree.

Lifelong learning Providing information and advice on a wide range of postgraduate and CPD courses.

Alumni Privilege Card Providing you with a host of discounts and special offers.

Alumni groups The University has a number of alumni groups and virtual communities around the globe.

Volunteering Enhance our students’ learning experience and boost your CV by participating in our alumni volunteering programme.

There are many ways you can get involved including: providing a career profile or testimonial; using your industry expertise to talk to students and support student projects; offering student placements; joining our international alumni ambassador scheme; assisting with student recruitment and establishing an alumni group.

The Alumni Fund You can help our students to learn, create and innovate by donating to the Alumni Fund.

For more information on all the services on offer, please visit www.rgu.ac.uk/alumni

Events and reunions Including masterclasses, exhibitions, open days and alumni receptions, both at home and overseas.

As well as providing an opportunity to catch up with former classmates, alumni events are the perfect chance to expand your social and business networks, opening up new opportunities.

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COURSE DETAILS

ABOUT OUR COURSES ACCOUNTING AND FINANCE University Preparation Courses

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Accounting and Finance

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Financial Management

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Oil and Gas Accounting

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Strategic Accounting with CIMA

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Module Glossary

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OUR UNIVERSITY PREPARATION COURSES Our Pre-Session English Language Programme will help you overcome the challenges of studying at a UK university; ensuring that you have the academic language and study skills needed to confidently participate in lectures, write assignments and, ultimately, succeed in your course.

Pre-Session English Programme The summer Pre-Session English Language Programme (PSP) is for students who want to study at Robert Gordon University but who have not yet reached the required level in English language.

The focus of the PSP is helping you to cope with the demands of studying at a UK university, and living in an English-speaking environment. The syllabus combines grammar, writing, communication, listening and reading skills.

The PSP is offered as two modules of five or six weeks.

Each module consists of approximately 100 hours of lessons (20 hours in class per week).

Module one has been developed for students who currently have an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 5.5 overall or higher.

Module two has been developed for students who currently have an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 6.0 overall or higher.

You can study each module or just module two, depending on your ability.

There is no need for you to re-sit an IELTS exam during the programme as you will be continuously assessed and will take mid-course and end-of-course tests.

These tests are made up of various academic English language related tasks and will enable you to get to the level of English you need to confidently study on one of our undergraduate and postgraduate full-time courses.

For an up-to-date list of PSP dates and further information relating to this service, please visit:

Robert Gordon University’s Pathway College The International College at Robert Gordon University (ICRGU) If you are an international student and unable to access Robert Gordon University directly, the International College at Robert Gordon University (ICRGU) could be an excellent option for you.

ICRGU is based in the heart of the spectacular Garthdee campus and offers entry to pathways that lead to Robert Gordon University degree awards.

From the very start of your time at ICRGU, you are a student at Robert Gordon University. However, you will learn in smaller and more personalised classes, study with international students from all over the world and have access to the dedicated academic and student support services in the college. As an ICRGU student you are also able to make use of the University facilities, including computer suites, the libraries and a fantastic sports centre.

ICRGU offers you entry to undergraduate and postgraduate pathways, the flexibility of up to three start dates per year, and a range of subject options including Business, Management and Accounting, Engineering and Computing.

For full information regarding pathways available, entry criteria and course fees, visit: www.rgu.ac.uk/icrgu E info@ic.rgu.ac.uk T +44 (0) 1224 263570

www.rgu.ac.uk/elr

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COURSE DETAILS

ACCOUNTING AND FINANCE MSc YOU WILL LEARN TO: >> Develop quantitative skills for financial analysis >> Consolidate and further develop analytical, financial accounting and management accounting skills >> Critically evaluate underlying theories >> Develop and apply a range of research methodologies >> Analyse corporate financial management practices >> Understand the concepts and practices in the management of investors wealth >> Analyse derivative instruments and alternative investments >> Apply financial, quantitative and research skills in a critical investigation and evaluation of professional concern in the field of accounting or financial management

COURSE CONTENT: >> Financial Reporting Issues and Applications >> Management Accounting Decision Making and Control >> Financial Theory >> Quantitative Methods for Finance >> Research Methods >> Corporate Financial Management >> Dissertation Choose one from: >> Alternative Investments >> Portfolio and Wealth Management Choose one from: >> Financial Accounting for Groups and Companies >> Management Accounting Issues and Applications

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PROGRAMME OVERVIEW This course is designed to further develop theoretical and practical accounting and finance skills. Its overarching aim is to encourage independent thinking and an ability to deal with the complexity of accounting and finance challenges facing organisations, either domestically or internationally. Successful completion of the course will provide you with the skills necessary to enhance your career to senior level roles in the accounting sector, within banking and financial institutions, or in the field of corporate finance.

The content has been developed with a vocational focus, to enable the effective management of accounting and finance challenges facing organisations, either at home or internationally. Aberdeen Business School has introduced two modules to its MSc Accounting and Finance course; Alternative Investments and Portfolio and Wealth Management. This change aims to keep our syllabus in line with the latest developments in finance and to equip our graduates with the skills required at the workplace.

This course will enable you to develop and broaden your knowledge, theory and professional accounting and finance skills, whilst providing an opportunity to specialise according to your particular career aspirations.

The compulsory modules provide important core content in helping you develop a range of advanced accounting, financial, quantitative theory and practical skills for application in the general corporate financial environment. You will then be able to tailor your studies to your future career interest in areas such as alternative investments, portfolio and wealth management, financial accounting for groups and companies and management accounting issues and applications.

You can further specialise through your Masters’ dissertation.

You will learn through a mixture of case studies, simulations, guest seminars, lectures, tutorials, computer labs, video presentations, group work and individual activity. You will also gain practical skills in analysis, synthesis, evaluation and problem solving, through active simulation assignments and group discussions in seminars and tutorials, culminating in the dissertation. Our approach makes extensive use of our virtual learning environment Campus Moodle, providing you with access to a number of tools, including discussion forums with fellow students and staff, ebook resources, financial databases and investment simulations.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND This course is suitable for those who have an undergraduate degree at Honours level in either Accounting or Accounting and Finance. Applicants with qualifications from approved professional accountancy bodies such as ACCA and CIMA will also be considered.

BENEFITS TO YOU The course is recognised by the following bodies: the Chartered Institute of Management Accountant (CIMA), the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) and the Association of International Accountants (AIA). On successful completion of the MSc a graduate may be eligible for exemption from one or more modules of the body’s professional qualification syllabus.

Application for exemptions will be assessed by the relevant professional body on a case by case basis and will take account of the detailed modules studied at MSc level together with the graduate’s prior first degree studies and any appropriate career experience.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES Graduates will be able to demonstrate the knowledge, skills and experience gained through the course to future employers. This will enable you to pursue careers in a variety of relevant areas such as: • Financial Accounting • Management Accounting • International Financial Management • Risk Management • Fund Management

KEY DETAILS STUDY OPTIONS Full-time START DATES September COURSE DURATION Full-time 1 year FUNDING Available, visit www.rgu.ac.uk/scholarships FINAL AWARD MSc EXIT AWARD PgCert/PgDip COURSE LEADER Alex Mackay Mscaccfin@rgu.ac.uk T +44 (0)1224 263817 ACCREDITATION

BENEFITS TO ORGANISATIONS This course has been designed to develop knowledge and skills required to enable graduates to go on to make a valuable contribution within an organisation. Students will develop a sound and comprehensive knowledge of the fundamental principles and theories of accounting and finance and the ability to apply these in practice. The dynamic mix of analytical, financial and quantitative skills which students gain is relevant to a diverse range of employment scenarios.

FEES and further information Please visit www.rgu.ac.uk/mscaccounting APPLY ONLINE WWW.RGU.AC.UK/APPLYONLINE

My experience at the University and on this course has provided me with a great opportunity to develop my finance and accounting skills along with other managerial skills required to excel in the business world today.

Ali Janoo, MSc Accounting and Finance

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COURSE DETAILS

Financial Management

PROGRAMME OVERVIEW

MSc

The economic activity over the past couple of years has given rise to a requirement for specific knowledge and understanding of the concepts and determinants of financial value and risk exposures which are now key to successfully managing and steering business organisations through this difficult environment.

YOU WILL LEARN TO:

Aberdeen Business School has revised the structure of its MSc Financial Management course. The main objective behind these changes is to keep our syllabus in line with the latest developments in finance and to equip our graduates with the skills required at the workplace. We aim to cover a substantial proportion of Certified Financial Analyst (CFA) syllabus to our graduates who wish to progress to this globally recognised professional qualification. In this regard, two new modules in Portfolio Management and Wealth Planning and Alternative Investments will be offered along with revised contents in the six existing modules.

>> Analyse financial information and financial markets >> Develop quantitative skills for financial analysis >> Consolidate analytical, financial and quantitative skills >> Understand underlying theories >> Analyse financial management practices >> Evaluate and manage financial opportunities and risks >> Understand the concepts and practices in the management of investor wealth. >> Analyse derivative instruments and alternative investments. >> Undertake a critical investigation and evaluation of an approved topic of professional concern in the field of financial management, and to present findings and conclusions as a piece of independent research

COURSE CONTENT: >> Financial Information and Decision Making >> Finance Theory >> Financial Institutions and Markets >> Quantitative Methods for Finance >> Alternative Investment >> Portfolio and Wealth Management >> Corporate Financial Management >> Research Methods

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The course offers specialist knowledge in the areas of corporate finance, banking, fund management and treasury, enabling you to go on to work in areas such as finance and banking, financial trading and broking, risk management or commercial finance.

You will develop analytical skills through evaluating theory and implementing procedures within the corporate sector and financial institutions. The course focus is to provide you with specialised expertise and knowledge of the financial management sector, an understanding of the nature of financial risk exposures in companies and financial institutions, the impact of these on the financial value of commercial organisations, and the techniques that can be applied to mitigate the effect of these risks.

You will be taught through a mixture of case studies, simulations, guest seminars, lectures, tutorials, computer labs, video presentations, group work and individual activity. You will also gain practical skills in analysis, synthesis, evaluation and problem solving through active simulation assignments and group discussions in seminars and tutorials culminating in the dissertation.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND This course is suitable for those who have an undergraduate degree in any subject who are looking to build a career within financial management in companies and financial institutions.

It is also designed for existing practitioners in junior and middle level management within commercial organisations and seeking career progression or a change in career path.

BENEFITS TO YOU As well as the recent module changes, providing substantial coverage of the Certified Financial Analyst (CFA) syllabus, the course is also recognised by the following bodies: the Association of Corporate Treasurers; the Institute of Bankers; the Securities and Investment Institute; the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants; the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants; and the Association of International Accountants. On successful completion of the MSc a graduate may be eligible for exemption from one or more modules of the body’s professional qualification syllabus. Application for exemptions will be assessed by the relevant professional body on a case by case basis and will take account of the detailed modules studied at MSc level together with the graduate’s prior first degree studies and any appropriate career experience. In addition to specific subject knowledge, you will acquire additional skills allowing you to integrate fully in to a commercial work environment. These will include abilities in written and verbal communication, time management, team working and critical analysis.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES This course will enable our graduates to progress to qualifications with the Certified Financial Analyst (CFA). For practising accountants, this course will allow you to specialise within the industry, opening up a wide variety of career development opportunities within a number of different contexts; for example, accounting, finance, audit or economics. For those who are new to financial management, this course will allow you to develop the practical skills, knowledge and understanding required to enter into, and develop your career within the profession. Employment opportunities exist within commercial companies, wholesale and retail, domestic and international banks, accountancy and consultancy firms and fund management and investment institutions as brokers, dealers, analysts and compliance staff.

BENEFITS TO ORGANISATIONS

KEY DETAILS STUDY OPTIONS Full-time START DATES September COURSE DURATION Full-time 1 year FUNDING Available, visit www.rgu.ac.uk/scholarships FINAL AWARD MSc EXIT AWARD PgCert/PgDip COURSE LEADER Dr Farooq Ahmad f.ahmad@rgu.ac.uk T +44 (0)1224 263422 ACCREDITATION

FEES and further information Please visit www.rgu.ac.uk/ financialmanagement APPLY ONLINE WWW.RGU.AC.UK/APPLYONLINE

Graduates will have the knowledge and skills to make an immediate, valuable and effective contribution within their organisation. They will bring a wide range of technical knowledge and expertise plus analytical, presentation and resource management skills to an employer. The sophisticated analytical, financial and quantitative skills gained are relevant to a diverse range of employment scenarios.

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COURSE DETAILS

OIL AND GAS ACCOUNTING MSc

PROGRAMME OVERVIEW In collaboration with industry, this unique course has been developed in response to the increasing need for specialist accounting professionals who understand the complexities of accounting for upstream oil and gas activity.

Upstream exploration and production activities are unique and complex. This has resulted in the requirement for specialist accounting practices, rules and standards which apply to the financial accounting, reporting and management of upstream oil and gas operations.

YOU WILL LEARN TO: >> Develop an understanding of the nature and function of companies and other organisations involved in financial, commercial and contractual activities in the North Sea and the global oil and gas industry >> Critically evaluate the reporting practices of international upstream oil and gas exploration and production companies >> Recognise the key issues in accounting for joint venture operations >> Develop a structured methodology for conducting joint venture and multi-venture audits >> Utilise petroleum economics in field development and life incremental projects >> Review and interpret key industry financial ratios and develop key performance indicators >> Identify the challenges of corporate financial management

COURSE CONTENT: >> International Oil and Gas Accounting >> Oil and Gas Management >> Financial Information and Decision Making >> Petroleum Economics and Asset Management >> Oil and Gas Management Accounting >> Corporate Financial Management >> Quantitative Methods for Finance >> Research Methods >> Dissertation

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The course tackles a full spectrum of topics and offers a dynamic mix of the theoretical and practical elements required for effective financial management within the oil and gas industry. This will enable you to develop a critical awareness of the key issues in international accounting for upstream oil and gas exploration and production activity.

You will be taught by academics with relevant industry experience and through a mixture of case studies, lectures, tutorials, computer labs, video footage, group work and individual activity.

You will also take part in an oil and gas simulation, developing practical skills in problem solving and group work as you explore and produce an offshore field. You will gain an effective insight into the risks and challenges of petroleum exploration and understand the complexities of upstream operations. In addition, guest lectures from industry practitioners provide valuable insights on current issues and practical application.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND This course is suitable for those who have an undergraduate degree in any subject who are looking to enter into and build a career within the energy industry. It is also designed for existing practitioners who would like to gain specialist knowledge and practical oil and gas skills relating to the oil and gas industry.

BENEFITS TO YOU Based in the oil & gas capital of Europe, we have the advantage of tapping into industry expertise through strong links with national companies such as Shell, Chevron, Sonatrach in Algeria, PDVSA in Venezuela, PetroChina, and Sonangol in Angola. We work closely with national and local industry bodies such as UKTI, IMechE, Subsea UK and the Energy Institute.

Our close relationship with the Oil Industry Finance Association (OIFA), the professional body that represents the accounting and finance interests of the North Sea oil industry, allows us to provide you with up-to-date specialist content. This ensures that students are aware of current issues which are integrated into the course content.

The course is accredited by the Energy Institute. This accreditation is recognition of the high level of energy content, quality training and academic expertise provided by on this course. The course is also recognised by The Association of International Accountants (AIA).

On successful completion of the MSc a graduate may be eligible for exemption from one or more modules of the body’s professional qualification syllabus. Application for exemptions will be assessed by the AIA on a case by case basis and will take account of the detailed modules studied at MSc level together with the graduate’s prior first degree studies and any appropriate career experience.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES A postgraduate qualification in Oil and Gas Accounting will provide you with extensive opportunities for a career with local, national and international companies.

This unique course will allow you to pursue a variety of roles and careers in the oil and gas industry within, for example, oil and gas companies, government departments or regulatory bodies, consulting and research companies. There is a wide range of opportunities leading on from the broad range of professional, technical and subject-specific skills covered within the course.

There are a number of roles addressing the different aspects of oil and gas finance, accounting, audit, economics, financial analysis, benchmarking and intelligence.

BENEFITS TO ORGANISATIONS This course has been designed to develop knowledge and skills required to make an immediate, valuable and effective contribution within your organisation. You will develop a sound and comprehensive knowledge of the fundamental principles and theories of the various aspects of accounting, finance and economics within the oil and gas industry. The sophisticated analytical, financial and quantitative skills which you will gain are relevant to a diverse range of employment scenarios in the oil and gas industry.

KEY DETAILS STUDY OPTIONS Full-time START DATES September COURSE DURATION Full-time 1 year FUNDING Available, visit www.rgu.ac.uk/scholarships FINAL AWARD MSc EXIT AWARD PgCert/PgDip COURSE LEADER Karen Lund k.m.lund@rgu.ac.uk T +44 (0)1224 263928 ACCREDITATION

FEES and further information Please visit www.rgu.ac.uk/ oilandgasaccounting

As a tax consultant, I needed a course that would enhance My understanding of the activities of the Oil and Gas industry and also provide me with insights into the operations of the oil companies. I am glad to have chosen the MSC Oil and Accounting course and in no other place than Aberdeen, the world’s Oil capital. I now not only have a good grasp of the accounting issues in the industry but also a greater understanding of the intricacies of the operations of the oil companies.

APPLY ONLINE WWW.RGU.AC.UK/APPLYONLINE

Bernard Sanya MSC Oil and Gas Accounting

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COURSE DETAILS

Strategic Accounting (with CIMA) MSc

PROGRAMME OVERVIEW This unique Masters Course is designed to give students who have already embarked on their CIMA qualification the chance to complete their CIMA exams whilst also studying for a postgraduate qualification and forms part of our recently launched CIMA related degree programme.

>> This online course will enable you to enhance your accounting and non-technical skills and provides a unique opportunity to gain two qualifications at the same time.

The course is delivered online via our well established and highly interactive virtual learning environment. You will benefit from being part of a group of learners with the invaluable opportunity of participating in active learning within a supportive online community setting. The online campus environment provides students with user friendly material, delivered using up-to-date web technology and tools and you will be extensively supported throughout your studies by our team of experienced tutors and lecturers. The support given to our online students is key to your success and you will participate regularly in live virtual tutorials, online chat sessions and group learning through discussion forums.

>> Applicants will already have the CIMA Advanced Diploma in Management Accounting which, combined with a Masters from Aberdeen Business School and the full CIMA exam qualification, will provide you with a real competitive edge.

The course has been designed to enable you to gain the skills necessary to succeed further in the field of Accounting. By studying the remaining CIMA examinations – strategic level and case-study – you will be well equipped to advance your professional career to a higher level. At the same time, you will gain valuable critical thinking and analytical skills through your participation in the remaining modules - Research Methods, Business Enterprise and Dissertation.

YOU WILL LEARN TO:

COURSE CONTENT: >> Research Methods >> Business Environment >> Performance Strategy >> Enterprise Strategy >> Finance Strategy >> Dissertation >> Professional Case Study

As an online distance learning student you will also have access to our wide range of support services – ranging from our extensive virtual library, where you will access books, journals and databases relevant to your subject, to our careers service and study support unit.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND Applicants should hold the CIMA Advanced Diploma in Management Accounting. In addition students should have an undergraduate degree or relevant management level work experience.

Students who are CIMA exam qualified (and therefore already hold strategic level CIMA and the case study) can study for the Masters through our one year top-up route.

BENEFITS TO YOU The MSc Strategic Accounting will enable you to gain the essential strategic and professional accounting skills required to progress your career to the next level. By combining an MSc with the remaining elements of the CIMA qualification you will equip yourself to succeed in an increasingly competitive job market.

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CAREER OPPORTUNITIES The course will enable you to develop transferable skills which will benefit your current role or enable you to advance to a management accounting position in industry.

KEY DETAILS STUDY OPTIONS Online Distance Learning (ODL)

The CIMA syllabus is designed to prepare you for a career in business and focuses on strategic advice, risk management and decision making. Combined with the University’s student-centric, practical approach to learning and strong links with industry, this course will enable graduates to go on to successful careers in a variety of industries and add value to current positions.

START DATES September

BENEFITS TO ORGANISATIONS

FUNDING Available, visit www.rgu.ac.uk/scholarships

CIMA is the largest global professional body for management accountants. With more than 203,000 members and students in over 173 countries, they work at the heart of business. This course will enable employees to add value to an organisation through their ability to provide a higher level of strategic advice and manage risk more effectively.

COURSE DURATION ODL 2 years ODL (top-up) 1 year

FINAL AWARD MSc and CIMA exam qualified status EXIT AWARD PgCert/PgDip COURSE LEADER Brenda Paver MScAccCIMA@rgu.ac.uk T +44 (0)1224 263208 recognised by

FEES and further information Please visit www.rgu.ac.uk/ mscaccountingcima APPLY ONLINE WWW.RGU.AC.UK/APPLYONLINE

If flexibility and great course content are important to you, then RGU is the perfect option.

One of the biggest risks in selecting an online course is the credibility of the school.

RGU has proven to be more than great and it is accessible from anywhere in the world.

Dave DaCosta , DISTANCE LEARNING STUDENT

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MODULE GLOSSARY 32 A CLEAR FUTURE

A-Z GLOSSARY OF MODULES All modules covered within your course are listed on each of the course pages. The contents of the modules are summarised below.

Alternative Investments This module is designed to provide students with a working knowledge of the analysis of derivative instruments and alternative investments. Firstly, it introduces the fundamental concept of derivatives, the nature and status of the derivatives markets.

Secondly, it examines the structure, pricing, settlement, risk and performance of forwards, futures, options and swaps as well as the applications of these derivatives instruments in risk management.

Finally, it examines the nature, valuation, risk and return of certain alternative investments such as commodities, real estate and mutual funds.

Business Environment This module will provide you with the means to analyse, interpret and make sense of the remote and competitive business environment in the context of international and global perspectives. On completion of the module you will be able to use evidence based techniques to provide a narrative description of the remote and competitive environment; identify, describe and critically evaluate the impact that globalisation may have on 21st century business practice and performance; and describe the observable changes in the environment and critically evaluate the impact and consequences on organisations and the individual.

Corporate Financial Management This module provides you with both the theoretical underpinning and the analytical skills required to effectively evaluate corporate financial management decisions.

The content of this module will normally cover the following issues: firms’ risk profiling; estimation of firms’ weighted average cost of capital; optimal capital structure; firm value models; shareholder value analysis; firm’s payout policy; the theory and practice of capital investments; corporate bonds; risk management; corporate restructuring; and sustainable growth frameworks.

Dissertation The dissertation is a piece of supervised, independent in-depth research into a specific area or issue of professional interest. You will apply the full range of associated research skills required to produce a dissertation. This module will demonstrate skills of analysis, critical evaluation, reflection, problem solving, logical argument and communication.

Enterprise Strategy This module will develop the knowledge and skills used in designing and implementing contemporary strategy effectively. You will learn how to interact with the business environment; evaluate the process of strategy development; implement strategy effectively; and manage strategic change effectively in support of strategy implementation.

Finance Theory This module will further develop your ability to critically assess the theories and principles of finance and develop these theories to analyse the behaviour of financial markets and institutions.

The content of this module will normally cover: efficient market theory; capital structure theory; agency theory; risk and return; portfolio theory; CAPM; arbitrage pricing theory; dividend policy; corporate control; and derivative pricing.

Finance Strategy The aim of this module is to enable you to design and manage an organisation’s financial strategy, in the context of contributing to achieving the organisations objectives and within its external constraints. On completion of this module, you are expected to be able to: discuss potential strategic financial objectives, and the relationships among and constraints on the elements of financial strategy; evaluate the financial strategies and objectives of an organisation and the extent of their attainment; evaluate the financing requirements of an organisation and strategies for meeting those requirements; discuss the treasury function; and evaluate investment choices, opportunities for merger, acquisition and divestment and the procedures for investment projects.

Financial Accounting for Groups and Companies This module will further develop your knowledge, understanding and awareness of the technical skills and concepts relating to financial accounting for groups and companies and to develop the ability to respond effectively and critically to contentious issues and change.

The content of this module will normally cover the following: consolidation and group financial statements; intangible assets; foreign currency; and earnings per share.

Financial Information and Decision Making This module will further develop your ability to identify and evaluate the nature, context and format of the relevant financial information of companies and to analyse such information with respect to appropriate decision making.

Financial Institutions and Markets This module will enhance your knowledge, understanding and awareness of the nature and structure of the financial markets and institutions and evaluate their role in the financial operations of companies.

The module will normally cover the following topics: overview of financial system; monetary theory and practice; banking sector; non bank sector; money & parallel markets; equity & bond markets; foreign exchange and eurocurrency markets; futures & options markets; swap market; central banking and monetary policy; regulation of financial system; source of information; reading the financial press; and Emu & Euro.

Financial Reporting Issues and Applications This module will enhance your knowledge, understanding and awareness of the technical skills and concepts underpinning financial reporting and to further develop the ability to respond effectively and critically to contentious issues and change.

The content of this module is expected to change over time to reflect current developments in financial accounting practice and regulation but currently includes: reporting the substance of transaction; deferred tax; pensions; financial instruments; corporate governance; personal investment; and current issues in financial accounting and reporting.

The content of this module will normally include the following topics: structure and content of income, balance sheet and cash flow statement, noting difference of focus in operation of business income and asset measurement; the financial reporting environment, relevance of profit levels, assets, liabilities, net book value and cash flows plus balances to performance of business; key drivers of revenues, costs, expenses, interest and tax plus fixes assets, net current assets and long-term debt plus operational, investment, financing cash flows; ratio and Dupont analysis, z-scores, value added and sustainable growth; and stock market data.

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MODULE GLOSSARY

International Oil and Gas Accounting This module provides you with the skills and knowledge to understand and critically evaluate the reporting practices of international upstream oil and gas exploration and production companies.

The content of this module will normally cover the following: introduction to oil and gas accounting; brief history of the development of the worldwide accounting regulatory framework within which international oil companies operate; different phases of activity for an exploration and production (E&P) oil company and related accounting treatments in each phase; full cost and successful efforts methods; reserve recognition accounting; specific risks facing E&P companies on the reporting of activities; international accounting standards; issues facing the international accounting standards board in setting a comprehensive accounting standard for the oil industry; work of the oil industry finance association; latest developments in the accounting area and reference to research papers; and analysis of published financial statements of oil companies.

Management Accounting Decision Making and Control To develop advanced knowledge and understanding of management accounting together with the ability to critically evaluate management accounting as a vehicle for decision making and control.

The content of this module will normally cover: • Costing: standard costing – including advanced sales, mix and yield variances • Budgeting: incremental, zero-based costing, advanced flexible budgeting and activity-based budgeting, behavioural aspects • Pricing: target costing, pricing policy and output decisions • Divisional performance: divisionalisation, performance measurement and return on investment, residual inventory management income and transfer pricing

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Management Accounting Issues and Applications This module will develop your appreciation and critical appraisal of current developments and research areas and further knowledge and understanding of mathematical applications within management accounting.

The content of this module will normally cover the following issues regarding developments in management accounting: activity-based costing; strategic management accounting; advanced manufacturing technologies; justin-time; total quality management; current research areas; mathematical applications: linear programming; simulation; forecasting; linear regression and correlation; decision trees, sensitivity and risk.

Oil and Gas Management This module introduces you to the nature and function of companies and other organisations involved in financial, commercial and contractual activities in the North Sea and worldwide oil and gas industries.

The content of this module will normally cover the following: the life cycle of an oil field, from before discovery, through development to abandonment; the role of the various organisations involved in the oil industry – governments, oil companies, service companies regulators and external (i.e. non-oil) bodies; the concept of the operator and how they discharge their legal and commercial obligations; examine joint operating agreements, legal arrangements, etc; contractual relationships; the basics of marketing, market segmentation and supplier selection, negotiations, price setting, the sales process; petroleum taxation, including various international taxation regimes; review the risks encountered by the industry, including the effects of oil price valuations, political risk, exploration risk, construction risk, operating risk, etc.; and techniques used to assess technical and financial risks.

Oil and Gas Management Accounting This module introduces you to the nature and function of management accounting within an oil and gas organisation.

The content of this module will normally cover the following: joint venture agreements and accounting procedures; operating expenditure (100% operator vs. JV costs); budgeting techniques; billing; reporting; capital expenditure (criteria and policies, control, monitoring and reporting, DD&A); auditing in the oil and gas industry (MVACs, JV audits, SOAP 2); and performance measurement (performance contracts, typical KPIs, divisional management).

Performance Strategy This module will consider the financial and non financial risks faced by an organisation and how those risks can be managed and controlled. You will learn how to evaluate control systems for organisational activities and resources; evaluate types of risk, risk management strategies, internal controls, and governance and ethical issues facing an organisation; discuss the importance of management review of controls, corporate governance and ethical issues facing an organisation and evaluate the process and purposes of audit in the context of internal control systems; evaluate financial risks facing an organisation and alternative risk management tools; and evaluate the benefits and risks associated with information related systems.

Petroleum Economics and Asset Management This module provides you with a working understanding of the role of petroleum economics in field development as well as through life incremental projects. The module examines these economic studies in the context of modern asset management based organisation for oil and gas facilities where multi-discipline processes are typically deployed.

The content of this module will normally cover the following issues: exploration and appraisal economics; field development options – generation and evaluation; operational economics; late field life economics; generation and modelling cash flows; economic and risk indicators; risk management and strategy; and interface with technical, commercial and financial disciplines.

Portfolio Investment and Wealth Management This module is designed to provide students with an understanding of the concepts and practices in the management of investor wealth. It examines topics such as: asset allocation, portfolio construction and revision, tax efficiency, risk management, fixed income portfolios, pension plans and performance review. It will also focus on the investment constraints of liquidity, time horizon, legal and regulatory issues and investor’s unique needs and preferences. Academic lecture and tutorial sessions will be complemented by guest presentations from portfolio and wealth management professionals.

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MODULE GLOSSARY 36 A CLEAR FUTURE

Professional Case Study The aim of this module is to equip you with the skills necessary to apply your strategic management accounting knowledge to a business context with a view to making appropriate business decisions and recommendations. On completion of this module you will be expected to be able to: apply sound technical knowledge in a practical and analytical manner to solve complex problems; formulate realistic recommendations in a multi-problem situation; and effectively present and communicate information.

Quantitative Methods for Finance This module provides you with the quantitative skills required to effectively analyse financial problems.

The content of this module will normally cover the following issues: present value, future value and interest rate mathematics; data presentation and descriptive statistics; probability distributions and asset returns; statistical inference techniques; ANOVA; MANOVA; regression analysis; basic time series analysis; co-integration; GARCH models etc.; principal components and factor analysis; discriminant analysis and logistic regression.

Research Methods To provide the student with an ability to identify and utilise appropriate strategies and techniques for the purpose of individual investigations and research in professional development and practice.

The content of this module will normally cover the following issues: research in a professional context, in support of planning, decision making and policy analysis; the impact of research; research principles (e.g. validity, reliability, generalisability); qualitative and quantitative approaches and rationale (e.g. case studies, action research, surveys, experimental and quasi-experimental design) and data collection techniques (e.g. questionnaire, observation and interview design); data management, analysis, interpretation and presentation (e.g. data recording and preparation, the application of statistical techniques, coding, categorising and pattern seeking in qualitative data, tabulation and graphing); and research writing, publishing and dissemination.

Our department has an excellent reputation for providing high-quality education and this is underpinned and informed by research and corporate engagement. The vision for our portfolio of courses is to ensure we equip our graduates for career progression.

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FURTHER INFORMATION CONTENTS How to apply

39

Fees and funding

40

Research

42

Student support

44

Accommodation

46

Location

48

38 A CLEAR FUTURE

HOW TO APPLY The quickest and most efficient method of applying for any postgraduate course* at Robert Gordon University is to apply online at www.rgu.ac.uk/applyonline

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

APPLY ONLINE

Most postgraduate courses in this guide are suitable for those who possess a UK undergraduate Honours degree. Other qualifications and appropriate experience may be considered with entry and is subject to the University’s judgement.

Applications for all postgraduate courses* are made online at www.rgu.ac.uk/applyonline

Applicants whose first language is not English should normally have an IELTS overall score of 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component. Alternative English language qualifications may be accepted for entry.

Find out more information on our website at www.rgu.ac.uk/english-requirements Certain courses may have additional conditions for entry. Please ensure you check the individual course information pages for full details of what is required.

If you go to the course you’re interested in applying for in this brochure, and type in the unique web address listed under the ‘Fees and further information’ section, this will take you to the individual course page on our website.

‘Apply Online’ is quick and easy to use, allowing you to complete pages in any order, and you may save your progress and come back to the form as many times as you like.

Supporting documents (certificates, academic transcripts, references and CV) are required to be uploaded at the time of application so please ensure you have these available.

International students You can apply directly via our online application service or via one of our approved agents worldwide. Our local representatives will be able to advise you on our range of courses and assist you with your visa application.

All international students looking to travel to and study within the UK are required to have a tier 4 visa.

For information relating to visits, visa requirements, funding or for a full list of our country representatives, visit www.rgu.ac.uk/international Contact details Our Postgraduate Admissions Office are happy to answer any queries you may have relating to your application.

PGOffice@rgu.ac.uk Tel: +44 (0)1224 262132

*EXCEPTIONS TO APPLY ONLINE: The following courses should be applied for via UCAS (www.ucas.com) instead: MSc Social Work M Architecture (part 2) 39

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FEES AND FUNDING Postgraduate students will normally make their own arrangements for payment of fees.

However, there are a number of funding and scholarships options open to UK/EU and international students. All fees are listed on individual course pages on our website.

FUNDING For enquiries regarding fee payment options, contact Student Finance on +44 (0)1224 262664 or email studentfinance@rgu.ac.uk 15% Alumni Loyalty Discount We offer our alumni a 15% loyalty discount on the University’s postgraduate course fees. The discount applies to both home and overseas alumni (holders of undergraduate degrees from Robert Gordon University) who commence postgraduate study at the University.

It can only be applied to tuition fees and cannot be used to cover any other programme-related expenses (e.g. residential costs, materials or membership fees).

For further information visit www.rgu.ac.uk/discount Postgraduate Students Allowance Scheme (PSAS) Postgraduate funding is in the form of a Postgraduate Tuition Fee Loan (PTFL). This was formerly known as the Postgraduate Students Allowance Scheme (PSAS).

It is run by the Student Awards Agency for Scotland (SAAS).

Eligible (Scottish domiciled and EU) full-time students who have accepted a postgraduate place on a course can apply directly to the SAAS for a loan to cover up to £3,400 towards their tuition fees. Part-time students in this category can apply for up to £1,700 towards their tuition fees.

Further information can be found at www.rgu.ac.uk/pgfees The application form is available to download from SAAS website. You should monitor the SAAS website for updates. www.saas.gov.uk Non-payment of fees The University’s current sanction for non-payment of tuition fees is to withhold the conferment of awards to students who are in debt to the University.

40 A CLEAR FUTURE

Individual Learning Accounts (ILA 500) Scottish domiciled students studying a part-time/ distance learning postgraduate course at the University who earn less than £22,000 pa, may be entitled to apply for an ILA (Individual Learning Account) of up to £500.

Terms and conditions of these grants are reviewed annually, therefore students are advised to visit www.ilascotland.org.uk to check for availability.

SCHOLARSHIPS RGU: SPORT scholarship RGU: SPORT aims to assist with the development and promotion of sporting excellence in students and alumni of Robert Gordon University.

In support of this, there are a number of sports scholarships offered to promising sports men and women to support them in developing their talents and succeeding in their chosen sporting field whilst undertaking academic study. These are designed to help students in every aspect of their pursuit of sporting excellence and are not primarily concerned with offering financial assistance to recipients, but will be tailored to meet individual needs on a case by case basis.

Scholarships are offered on an annual basis to athletes who are at, or close to, national standard in their given sport. Financial assistance is awarded to support travel, training, equipment and competition expenses accrued during the academic year.

For further information visit: www.rgu.ac.uk/scholarships

Carnegie-Cameron Taught Postgraduate Bursaries Offered to Scottish students undertaking either a one year, full-time or two year, part-time taught postgraduate degree in any subject offered by the University.

The awards are reviewed annually and will be automatically deducted from tuition fees. Bursaries will be awarded on the basis of an overall assessment of the merit and promise of the candidate, including their financial circumstances.

Scotland’s Saltire Scholarships The British Council and Scottish Government run Scotland’s Saltire Scholarships scheme.

There are a total of 200 awards made under this scheme to students applying from Canada, China, India and USA. The awards are open to students who are pursuing a taught one year Masters degree at a Scottish university.

Those who are successful will be offered a scholarship totalling £2,000. Students from the above countries can apply for the scholarship when they hold a conditional offer or an unconditional offer from the respective Scottish institutions.

You can find out about other sources of funding for international students from the British Council’s database www.britishcouncil.org

MY SPORTS SCHOLARsHIP WAS TAILORMADE. IT INCLUDED SPORTS COACHING, CONDITIONING ADVICE AND PHYSIOLOGICAL TESTING, AS WELL AS EXPERT ADVICE ON NUTRITION AND SPORTS SCIENCE. GOLD MEDALLIST SWIMMER, HANNAH MILEY RGU: SPORT SCHOLARSHIP

Course-specific Scholarships and Funding We have only listed a small portion of scholarships and funding options on this page.

We have a much wider list of course-specific scholarships and funding on our website. These include Merit, MBA, Talisman and Opito scholarships. As this information is regularly reviewed and updated, we recommend you check individual course pages on our site to access and check this information.

To access the full list available for an individual course, go to the course you’re interested in this brochure and you’ll find the unique web address in the right hand panel under the ‘Fees and further information’ section.

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RESEARCH The focus at Robert Gordon University is on applied research. An integral part of our purpose is to build a research base of staff and students who undertake highly relevant leading-edge research that advances knowledge and provides tangible benefits to the wider economy and society.

Our success in the Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) has led to substantial research grant income and corresponding significant increases in research project funding from the Research Councils, Technology Strategy Board, European Union, industry, charities and other external research funding bodies.

IMaGeS INSTITUTE FOR MANAGEMENT, GOVERNANCE AND SOCIETY RESEARCH (IMaGeS)

The Institute for Management, Governance and Society (IMaGeS) builds on research recognised in RAE 2008 as internationally excellent or world-leading within business and management, accounting and finance, public policy, information management and law.

Business & Enterprise Governance & Society Information & Communication The rich multidisciplinary research environment of IMaGeS enables the development of new perspectives and approaches to challenges in society. Our research and knowledge exchange activities are focused around three themes:

Information & Communication: Information literacy, communication, knowledge management, new media, librarianship, publishing, information management The work of our doctoral candidates adds richness and diversity across all three themes with particular clusters of activity focussed in areas such as entrepreneurship, oil and gas, African contexts, information literacy, and environmental issues.

Our research and knowledge exchange activities are underpinned by the core values of scientific integrity, transparency, fairness, collaboration, openness to ideas and real social and economic impact. We work closely with industries, professions and government to extend the reach and impact of our research, empowering enterprise, business development, management and governance within a global knowledge society.

Director: Professor Dorothy Williams E: d.williams@rgu.ac.uk T: +44 (0)1224 263905 www.rgu.ac.uk/research/images Graduate School We offer three Doctoral degrees combining taught elements with practice focused research: • Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) • Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) • Doctor of Information Science (DInfSci) You will undertake a PgCert in Research Methods as part of your training and also have access to specialist classes across Scotland as part of our membership of the Scottish Graduate School, a partnership between 11 Scottish universities committed to the training and development of social science students.

Business & Enterprise: Entrepreneurship, marketing, organisational studies, economics and accountancy, environment

Our Doctoral candidates are engaged in research that spans the social sciences as well as the globe. This body of work brings a richness, diversity and depth to all three of our themes. Over the past few years a number of clusters of research students have begun to develop around Entrepreneurship, Oil and Gas, African contexts, Information Literacy and Environmental issues.

Governance & Society: Law, politics and public policy, accounting and finance, transport policy, energy policy

Graduate School Leader: Dr Seonaidh McDonald E: s.mcdonald@rgu.ac.uk www.rgu.ac.uk/images

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STUDENT SUPPORT STUDENT HELP POINT

CHILDCARE

The University’s Student Help Point should be your first point of call for all your queries and questions about student life.

The Treehouse Early Care and Education Centre, managed by Bright Horizons Family Solutions, is situated on our Garthdee campus. This purpose-built facility provides the highest quality care and education for babies and children of three months to five years of age. For more information, visit: www.rgu.ac.uk/nurseryfacilities

You can pay…

Tuition fees, accommodation instalments, emergency loan repayments, graduation fees.

You can request…

Student status letters, including letters for a bank account and council tax purposes.

You can browse info on…

Careers, student finance, prospectuses, health, local info, what’s on.

And lots more…

We issue replacement ID cards, and sell the Monday to Friday First Bus pass, Stagecoach Unirider bus pass, and Study Skills handbook. Also check out our reference library covering local info, maps, health and finance.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ADVICE, VISA AND IMMIGRATION CENTRE The International Student Advice, Visa and Immigration Centre provides international students with a wide range of support and advice which includes: • advice on extending/renewing Tier 4 student visa/ leave to remain • producing Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) to support students’ visa extension applications

CAREERS & EMPLOYABILITY CENTRE

• advice on working during your studies

The Careers & Employability Centre supports students and recent graduates to make informed decisions regarding their career and to assist them in achieving their career.

• organising a ‘meet and greet’ service on arrival at Aberdeen Airport and conducting orientation presentations during enrolment

The Centre is quality assured by the matrix quality standard for information, advice and guidance services.

The following services are on offer and students are actively encouraged to make full use of these: Bookable appointments and daily drop-in advice sessions; careers information; weekly workshops covering the full range of career planning and job search topics; JOBSHOP, your online opportunities database on course career management programmes, employer events and careers fairs.

For further information on our services, visit: www.rgu.ac.uk/careers

• organising Police Registration and Health Screening on campus • offering other general information affecting international students on issues including safety, transport, council tax, etc.

The Service also plays an important role in ensuring that the University complies with its Highly Trusted Sponsor Licence as part of Tier 4 of the Points Based System.

For more information on the service please visit www.rgu.ac.uk/international or email isa@rgu.ac.uk COUNSELLING AND WELLBEING SERVICE Supports and advises you on a wide range of pastoral and emotional issues to enable you to get the most out of your studies. Further information can be found at www.rgu.ac.uk/counselling

WWW.RGU.AC.UK/STUDENTSERVICES

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STUDY SKILLS AND ACCESS UNIT

Disability and Dyslexia Support

The Study Skills and Access Unit offers you confidential advice, support and guidance with a range of academic study skills, including:

The Disability and Dyslexia Centre supports disabled students to realise their academic potential by working with academic colleagues to improve the teaching and learning environment. It is validated by the Scottish Government to undertake Needs Assessments.

• Academic Writing and Critical Thinking • Exam Preparation and Revision • Maths, Statistics and Numeracy Skills • English Language (for International Students) • Study Skills (time management, presentation skills etc) • Basic IT Skills We tailor our service to suit you – you can arrange appointments on an individual or small group basis, and appointments can be face-to-face, via email or telephone.

We support individuals with physical and sensory impairments, health conditions, dyslexia or other specific learning differences, and those with short- or longterm support needs. The service employs a dedicated Enabling Technologist who provides advice and support in the use of assistive and enabling technology, and an Educational Psychologist.

For further information about the specific support we offer, please contact the Disability and Dyslexia Service on +44 (0)1224 262103 or email disability@rgu.ac.uk

Contact us at studyskills@rgu.ac.uk or visit www.rgu.ac.uk/studysupport for more information.

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LOOKING FOR A PLACE TO STAY? Aberdeen is a truly student-focused city, where you will meet people from all over the world. That’s one reason why studying at Robert Gordon University is such a rewarding experience.

Our accommodation Robert Gordon University has various purpose-built accommodation developments situated in the city and at the Garthdee campus. The flats are well equipped, and some of the accommodation is en-suite, whilst the remainder has shared washing and toilet facilities.

The rent you pay generally includes 24/7 high-speed internet access, all utilities, and personal contents insurance. The rent rates for session 2013/14 range from £92 to £135 per week. You can have a look at the most up-to-date information on our website: www.rgu.ac.uk/accommodation or you can call us on +44 (0)1224 262130 or email accommodation@rgu.ac.uk Applications Application for University accommodation normally opens around late April and is made online at www.rgu.ac.uk/roomonline To apply you must live outwith the Aberdeen area and have accepted an unconditional or conditional offer or have an insurance offer.

Private sector accommodation See our website under ‘Alternative Accommodation’ for links to www.rgustudentpad.co.uk and other advertising sites for private flats/rooms. Prices in the private sector start at around £80 per week (excluding bills).

Adapted accommodation Our Student Accommodation Service has a number of adapted flats. If you have specific requirements for adaptations or equipment, you should contact the Accommodation Services directly to discuss your requirements on +44 (0)1224 262130 Need more information?

For the most up-to-date information about accommodation, go to our website or contact us direct. We would be delighted to help and look forward to welcoming you to Aberdeen. www.rgu.ac.uk/accommodation 46 A CLEAR FUTURE

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ABERDEEN CITY MAP

25

48 A CLEAR FUTURE

OUR riverside CAMPUS

Aberdeen

EDINBURGH

DUBLIN

CARDIFF

London

Garthdee campus map

LIBRARY

STUDENT HELP POINT

Our beautiful Garthdee campus sits on the banks of the River Dee. A regular bus service connects the campus with Aberdeen city centre.

For further information on transport links, go to www.rgu.ac.uk/transport

SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING SCHOOL OF COMPUTING SCIENCE & DIGITAL MEDIA SCHOOL OF PHARMACY & LIFE SCIENCES

Sat Nav Postcodes Gray’s School of Art The Scott Sutherland School of Architecture and Built Environment Aberdeen Business School Faculty of Health and Social Care Engineering, Computing, Pharmacy and Life Sciences

AB10 7QD AB10 7QB AB10 7QE AB10 7QG AB10 7QQ

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INDEX Accommodation

46

Accounting and Finance

24

Aberdeen Business School

7

After you leave

21

Career options

14

Careers & Employability Centre

16

Fees and funding

40

Financial Management

26

How to apply

39

Location

48

Module glossary

32

Oil and Gas Accounting

28

Our campus

49

Our city

48

Our courses

22

Our department

11

Professional Development

18

Research

42

Staff

13

Student support

44

Welcome

3

Why study a postgraduate course?

4

50 A CLEAR FUTURE

Robert Gordon University is in Aberdeen, one of Scotland’s liveliest and most dynamic cities.

Aberdeen is easy to reach by road, rail or air. Study takes place at the Garthdee campus on the River Dee. Garthdee is located at the southside of the city, approximately three miles from the centre of Aberdeen.

DISCLAIMER This guide is intended as a guide for applicants for courses delivered by Robert Gordon University. In compiling it, the University has taken every care to be as accurate as possible, and the information in this guide is correct at the time of going to print, but the guide must be read as subject to change at any time and without notice.

The University undertakes to make every reasonable effort to provide the teaching and academic facilities necessary for applicants’ programmes of study. However, the University reserves the right, if such action is considered to be necessary, to make variations to fees and/or to vary the content or delivery method of any course at any time. In addition, the University may, at its sole discretion, discontinue or amalgamate any course(s). In these rare cases, the University will notify applicants as soon as possible and reasonable steps will be taken to provide a suitable alternative to a discontinued course.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES No discrimination is made on the grounds of age; disability; gender reassignment; pregnancy and maternity; race; religion and belief; sex or sexual orientation when considering applications for places on courses. All members of the University are responsible for helping to ensure that you do not suffer any form of harassment and that you are encouraged and supported in any legitimate complaint.

CREDITS Photography by Ray Smith Photography and Martin Parker at Robert Gordon University.

Robert Gordon University, a Scottish charity registered under charity number SC013781.

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CONTACT US T: +44 (0)1224 262132 E: pgoffice@rgu.ac.uk

www.rgu.ac.uk/better

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