The module aims to provide students with a basic understanding of some of the core elements within this field. The module will in particular concentrate on the specific areas of Banking, Finance, Management and Accounting and will give students an opportunity to apply theoretical concepts to key organisations, companies and institutions. The module will enable students to develop their analytical skills as well as aid them in developing their practical knowledge of this dynamic sector. The module draws extensively on the critical analysis of case-studies which students are introduced to during the seminar sessions. These are furthermore used to promote the development of group tasks and small scale research projects.

Module Aims

1. To ensure that students obtain a broad understanding of basic business concepts and terminology
2. To enable students to develop their analytical skills by applying theory to practice within the four areas
3. To give students the opportunity to engage actively and critically with case-studies, balance sheets and other practical elements
4. To take an active part in group discussions and contribute to small scale group tasks
5. To provide opportunities for discussions of the taught material and enable students to engage with research tasks and projects

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of the module a student will be expected to be able to demonstrate:

1. An ability to couple key theoretical concepts to practical application
2. An appreciation of how the areas of Banking, Finance, Management and Accounting are linked
3. An ability to undertake a basic analysis and justification of common conceptual and practical issues related to the areas of Banking, Finance, Management and Accounting.
4. An ability to communicate ideas efficiently in written form.

Syllabus

Accounting
Income statements
Balance sheets
Ratios
Accounting Regulations

Management
Motivation. Theory
Leadership styles
Work culture
Recruitment and selection

Banking

Introduction to banking and money markets
The role of different types of banks
Banking functions
Banking case studies

Finance
Sources of finance
Short-term finance
Long-term finance
Investment companies
Organisations and financing options

Summer Term
Revision classes

Assessment

A 90-minute in-class test in week 21 (30%).
A 90-minute in-class test in week 29 (30%).
A 1,500 word assignment (40%). Assignment handed in during week 37.

A final exam of three hours will consist of essay type questions and financial calculations.

Non-assessed coursework

Students will be required to submit a formative mini-essay during the term. This will not be graded, but feedback and guidance will be given as to how this could be improved in the future. The purpose of the formative assessment is to ensure that students become familiar with academic writing.

50% coursework and 50% exam
Pass mark: 40%