MSc Business Management modules

Total of 180 credits

7A002 Small Scale Farming and Local Food Supply

Led by Jonathan Code, this module examines the role of small-scale farming in sustainable food systems. Topics include policy, agroecological initiatives, economics, and ethics. Students engage with case studies and local food innovators. Assessment includes a 1500-word case study and a 2000-word policy brief. The module supports critical evaluation of farming scale, sustainability, and food security across diverse contexts.

7A005 Climate Change and Sustainability 

Led by Emmanuel Zuza, this module addresses the causes, consequences, and solutions to climate change, focusing on sustainability and adaptation strategies. Students critically evaluate mitigation approaches and design multidisciplinary responses. Assessment is a 3000-word essay (100%), testing critical analysis and argumentation. Weekly online lectures and seminars support student-led discussions and collaborative learning.

7A009 Organic and Regenerative Systems

Led by Jonathan Code, this module explores the principles and practices of organic and regenerative agriculture in addressing food sovereignty, climate change, and environmental degradation. Students engage in lectures, seminars, and farm visits. Assessment is a 3000-word report (100%) synthesizing learning and proposing pathways for transitioning to sustainable food systems. The module emphasizes systems thinking, peer learning, and policy analysis.

7A014 Integrated Agricultural Systems

Led by Karen Rial-Lovera, this module explores temperate and tropical farming systems, including agroforestry and aquaponics. Students critically evaluate crop, livestock, and mixed enterprises under social, economic, and environmental pressures. Assessment includes a group case study report (70%) and a 5-minute individual presentation (30%). Learning is delivered through blended formats including seminars, farm walks, and group discussions.

7B001 Farm Business and Enterprise Management 

Led by Ian Evans, this module equips students to evaluate and plan profitable, sustainable farm businesses. Topics include financial performance, benchmarking, and diversification. Assessment includes a 3000-word group Farm Business Plan (50%) and a problem sheet (50%). Learning is delivered through pre-recorded lectures and in-person seminars, with a focus on applying ELMS to commercial farm scenarios.

7B003 Financial Management 

Led by Ayodeji Owoeye, this module develops financial decision-making skills across sectors. Students explore investment strategies, financial instruments, risk management, and performance analysis. Assessment includes a 15-minute individual presentation (40%) and a 2500-word case study essay (60%). Teaching combines lectures, seminars, and interactive online resources to foster critical evaluation and practical application.

7B004 Marketing Strategy

Led by Beverley Hill, this module explores strategic marketing frameworks, brand management, and consumer behaviour. Students critically assess traditional and postmodern marketing approaches. Assessment includes a 2000-word marketing report (70%) and a 1000-word theoretical critique essay (30%). Learning is case-based and interactive, blending online materials with face-to-face teaching to develop analytical and decision-making
skills.

7B005 Leadership and Personal Development

Led by Ian Evans, this module develops leadership capabilities through critical engagement with leadership theories and ethical practices. Students reflect on personal and team skills in complex organisational contexts. Assessment includes two reflective pieces: 1000 words (25%) and 2000 words (75%). Learning is delivered through case-based discussions and blended teaching strategies.

7B006 Sustainable Business Strategy

Led by Tosin Lagoke, this module explores strategic business models with a focus on sustainability, CSR, and competitive advantage. Students analyse internal and external environments, evaluate strategic options, and integrate sustainability into operations. Assessment is a 3000-word report (100%) on development options for a real organisation. Learning includes seminars, case studies, and online resources.

7B007 Entrepreneurship and Business Planning

Led by Ian Evans, this module explores the entrepreneurial process from opportunity recognition to business planning and pitching. Students examine SME start-up strategies, financial forecasting, legal structures, and sustainable growth. Assessment information is yet to be ratified.

7M001A Research Skills

Led by Atenchong Talleh Nkobou, this module develops core research competencies for postgraduate study and professional practice. Students explore research philosophy, design, data analysis, and ethics, preparing for dissertation work. Assessment includes a 1000-word self-reflection (30%) and a 2000-word research proposal (70%). Teaching combines seminars and online learning to foster critical thinking and enquiry-based learning.

7M002B Dissertation

Led by Atenchong Talleh Nkobou, this summer variant of the dissertation module mirrors the autumn version. Students conduct independent research, applying problem-solving and analytical skills developed throughout their programme. Assessment is a 12,000–15,000 word dissertation (100%),