Stage 4
Management experience and completion of two work based reports.
All modules, projects and reports are compulsory. This overlapping programme design means that modules completed at each stage may be credited towards subsequent stages.

The Standard to be attained by candidates for the joint Masters Degree shall jointly satisfy the standard (of knowledge skill and competence to be attained) for the Masters Degree at level 9 under the National Framework of Qualifications in Ireland and the Masters Degree at Level M under the England, Wales and Northern Ireland Framework for Higher Education Qualifcations).

Who validates the programmes?
The Professional Certificate is validated by by Nottingham Trent University in the UK. The Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma and the Masters programmes are jointly awarded by Nottingham Trent University and HETAC.

Upon successful completion of the MBA programme, students will graduate with one award. However, students can exit from the programme at any stage, and will graduate with the award for the final stage they have successfully completed only.
Our approach to teaching, learning and assessment
Every class is an opportunity to explore, to learn and to question. We believe in an interactive teaching style that encourages students to make significant contributions and presentations in class. This promotes the exchange of ideas as well as building confidence. International case studies form the basis of group discussions in tutorials and individual/group assignments.

Bearing in mind the ongoing dynamic nature of the international business environment, we introduce and analyse the latest research and industry developments. This information is particularly useful for group assignments, presentations and independent research projects.

Assessment for the Professional Certificate, Postgraduate Certificate and Postgraduate Diploma is based on ongoing coursework and on final examination performance.

The Research Dissertation for the MSc is assessed on the content, approach and presentation, as well as the student’s ability to meet the required deadlines and specifications.

For the MBA you will be assessed on your managerial ability and the application of your skills and knowledge in the workplace, as demonstrated in your two Management Reports.


What is the teaching schedule?
Full-time students normally attend classes five days a week, Monday-Friday, between 9am and 6pm. The part-time programme is evening based, with classes between 6.30pm and 9.30pm on two or three evenings per week, Monday-Thursday. Additional tutorials for both full-time and part-time students are held at the weekend, when required. Timetables are available on programme commencement. There are two 12-week semesters per year: September - December and February - May. Examinations are held in January and May. Completion of MSc and MBA projects will take place throughout the year.


Students of the Graduate Business School typically possess the following qualities:

• A potential to grow and an ability to continue the life long learning experience.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Innovative, critical and creative thinking ability.
• Ability to work autonomously, collaboratively and assume leadership responsibility.
• A proactive approach and the ambition to succeed.
   

Our courses are comprehensive and rigorous. You must be prepared for challenges that require flexibility and adaptability, teamwork and continuous innovation.


What will you gain by completing one of our programmes?

• The capability to perform multiple roles in an organisation.
• An understanding of the total business enterprise and how it functions.
• The ability to express ideas clearly, concisely, and logically.
• The development of insight and experience, gained through critical thinking and teamwork.
• The ability to competently set goals, to plan, implement and manage change.
   

Careers
No matter which programme you pursue in the Graduate Business School you will be well prepared for numerous specialist and general roles in international business management:

• Consulting
• IT/Telecomms Services
• Investment Banking
• Finance
• Retail Industry
• Marketing
• Accounting
• Operations
• Manufacturing
• HR Management
• Entrepreneur
   

Programme Entry Requirements
Applicants to the Graduate Business School must meet the following requirements:


Business Graduates
For entry to our postgraduate courses we require a minimum of 2.1(GPA 3.00) in a Bachelor’s Degree in business or a related discipline from a recognised tertiary institution (supporting documentation required).

Non-Business Graduates
Entry to the PGCert/PGDip/MSc/MBA for non-business graduates, with a GPA of 3.00, requires a score of 550 or higher in the GMAT or GPA of 2.50 or higher in the GCD Professional Certificate or substantial work experience in a related area.

English Language Proficiency
For non-native English speakers: IELTS (6.5), TOEFL 550 (paper) / 232 (computer) with TWE (5.0), TOEIC (730) or Cambridge CPE (A, B or C).

Satisfactory performance at interview, if applicable.

Application forms needs to be supported by two official GBS Reference Forms completed by individuals able to assess the student’s suitability for their chosen programme. At least one of the referees should be someone in a position to judge the student’s academic ability and, where possible, the other should be someone who is able to assess the student’s practical management qualities.

* Applications for the GBS course will only be accepted on the GBS Application Form and associated reference forms.