Leaders in Distance Learning

Professional Diploma in Management

Course Synopsis

The Diploma in Business Management can prepare the student for taking up a new management role. It is also ideal for those who would like to develop and hone their skills within an existing management role. It provides detailed learning on a range of relevant management topics, combining theoretical background with the practical tools, interpersonal techniques and communication formats needed for everyday managers. The course examines changes in management practice against the context of the changes in the UK and global economy, and will be of particular interest to those needing to practice management skills on a day-to-day basis. Throughout, the student is encouraged to use the ideas both in the context of their own experience and through a case study.

Course Content

1. What is management

   This module will introduce the student to modern concepts of leadership and management skills, and how these can change within context. It will examine the way groups develop, and the management role in this process. The module concludes with the first of a range of guidelines in practical management skills, looking at effective delegation.

2. The individual as manager

   Focuses on some essential core skills for a manager, with tips and techniques for successful time-management, goal-setting, problem-solving, effective meetings, interviewing and giving or receiving feedback. A range of tools are explored, including mind-maps, SWOT analysis and force field analysis.

3. Structure and environment

   An examination of different features and types of organisational structure and the various environments within which organisations operate. This module assesses recent trends such as outsourcing, and the move towards the use of peripheral workers in the UK workforce, and also looks at how to analyse the effects of environment to anticipate organisational change.

4. Managing processes

   Considers the internal features of an organisation, including planning and strategy, costs and budgets and the benefits of understanding the processes of a business. Practical advice is provided on facilitation of workshops, in the context of process improvement.

5. Managing projects

   The module asks 'What is a project', providing a step-by-step breakdown of the key phases for managing projects successfully. It provides advice on financing projects, and on risk assessment. The 'softer' side of project management is dealt with, providing guidance on understanding team roles and effective brainstorming for group problem-solving.

6. Managing people

   Assessing key skills and knowledge required at each stage of the working life-cycle, along with an overview of employer responsibility and key legislation.

7. Managing diversity

   Exploring the increasingly diverse UK workforce and the business case for managing by diversity principles. Key legislation will be examined, including discrimination, human rights and harassment and bullying. Issues around work/life balance are discussed, and the theme of managing a diverse group expanded with an introduction to individual learning styles.

8. Managing change

   Reviewing types of organisational change, managing the change process, dealing with individual resistance and cultural issues. Practical guidance will be given around the use of coaching and mentoring, as a method to facilitate change through development.

9. Quality and measurement

   The use of targets, performance indicators, service level agreements and benchmarking is considered, along with a review of popular quality management systems. Practical advice is provided on negotiation skills.

10. Ethics and corporate social responsibility

    Examining recent trends in corporate governance, environmental issues, business ethics and social responsibility. Practical advice is provided with tips and guidance on making presentations. Finally, the student is taken through a review of the course to reflect on their learning, and to help them set career goals for their next steps.

Entry Requirements

Basic English reading and writing skills, as full tutor support is given.

Study Hours

Approximately 37 hours per unit

Assessment Method

At the end of each Unit you will need to complete a tutor marked assessment (TMA) and after completing all units, a final extended essay. On completion of TMA work you will then sit the online examination. All parts of this course, including the online examination, can be done in your location and no attendance is required.

All TMA work is emailed to the tutor department and you will receive your results and feedback (if required) by return email.

Please note that you can enrol on this course at anytime.

Further Information

On successful completion of this course, you can apply to join The Institute of Management Specialists

Online Enrolment

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