Lifelong Learning

Bachelor of Business (Honours)

Course Details

Course Code	LY_BBSLL_B
Level	8
Duration	3 years
Credits	240
Method of Delivery	Blended
Campus Locations	Donegal – Letterkenny
Mode of Delivery	Part Time

How to Apply

Course Overview

This degree programme has been specifically designed to suit mature learners. It provides the opportunity for those who would like to get back to education and achieve a degree in business but can’t attend a fulltime course.

Advanced entry to Year 2 or Year 3 is available for existing Higher Certificate/Diploma/HND in Business Holders.

This programme will provide returning learners with a very positive and stimulating learning experience. An integral part of the programme is the focus towards applied and work based learning and learners will be equipped with a diverse and flexible range of skills and professional competencies suited to the modern world of business and enterprise.

This part-time degree meets the registration requirements set down in the Teaching Council Regulations in respect of the curricular subject of ‘Business’. Students are advised to contact the Teaching Council directly to confirm.

Course Details

Year 1

Semester	Module Details	Credits	Mandatory / Elective
1	Learner Development & Study Skills This module acts as a corner stone for developing the learners' key skills. It aims to develop the learners' reading and writing, learning, critical thinking, presenting, inter personal and analysis skills for successful learning. This module teaches learners basic learning skills for their transition into higher education. It assists students to become effective communicators Learning Outcomes 1. Describe their personal learning style 2. Through the use of a range of ICT tools, demonstrate high standards of written and oral communication skills in the context of their own discipline of study 3. Engage in active research and assess the appropriateness and credibility of sources of information 4. Acknowledge and reference sources in the required manner 5. Engage in active research and assess the appropriateness and credibility of sources of information and acknowledge and reference such sources in the required manner 6. Prepare and deliver a presentation to peers 7. Develop group based learning skills 8. Give and receive feedback, reflecting on personal and peer work	10	Mandatory
1	Management Principles The aim of this module is to introduce learners to the basic principles and ideologies of management. It aims to develop the learners skills in examining the planning, organising, leadership and control functions associated with management across all organisations. It focuses primarily on managing the enterprise Learning Outcomes 1. Discuss key management functions and approaches to management 2. Describe the various environmental factors impacting management practice 3. Explain the importance of decision making and planning processes in strategy development within an organisation 4. Identify the key aspects of organisational design 5. Describe the various leadership approaches and styles that a manager may adopt 6. Advise on the importance of control within an organisation 7. Discuss the current issues in management practices 8. Identify the skills required in modern management	10	Mandatory
1	Personal Finance The purpose of this module is to provide learners with an understanding of the nature and scope of personal financial planning. It will allow learners to apply techniques to aid financial decision making for an individual and household. This module will involve the application of knowledge and skills to help identify financial goals and how to potentially fulfil these goals within an individuals financial constraints Learning Outcomes 1. Assess risk and reward with regard to saving and investing 2. Identify the key issues when borrowing money and managing debt 3. Select appropriate methods to protect income e.g. Life cover, serious illness, income protection 4. Assess the various methods of saving for retirement i.e. pension planning 5. Describe and assess common social welfare benefits 6. Assess the impact of taxation on the financial position of individuals and households i.e. income tax, capital gains tax and inheritance tax	05	Mandatory
1	Computer Applications For Business This module will provide the learner with practical knowledge of computer applications that are used today in the business environment as well as providing a basic theoretical overview of the components of a PC Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the basic components of a PC. 2. Discuss the implications and importance of IT in todays business environment 3. Demonstrate effective use of a word processing package to create and maintain business documents 4. Construct professional presentations using presentation software 5. Construct and use a spreadsheet application to carry out basic spreadsheet functionality	05	Mandatory
2	Manual & Computerised Accounts The key objective of this module is to provide the learners with knowledge of manual and computerised accounts. It is intended to give an overview of the accounting concepts and principles of accounting and the technical competency in the area of double entry accounting and preparation of trial balance. It will also give the learners practical experience of effectively using accounting software commonly used in the business world. Learners will reach a level of proficiency in the use of accounting software that will render them effective in the workplace. Learning Outcomes 1. Outline the different types of business entity and the role of financial accounting in an organisation 2. Use the double entry system of bookkeeping to manually prepare a trial balance 3. Utilise the basis set up, layout and common functionality of the accounting package 4. Demonstrate an understanding of double entry bookkeeping and the competence to apply this understanding using an integrated accounts package 5. Generate accurate and relevant reports in a timely manner 6. Demonstrate an understanding of the housekeeping and error correction procedures operated within the accounting package	10	Mandatory
2	Managerial Behaviour & Effectiveness The aim of this module is to introduce learners to the various behavioural aspects of the organisational setting and how these can be managed effectively. An understanding of the behaviour of individuals and groups within the organisational setting and emergent issues pertaining to both is an essential role of modern managers. Learning Outcomes 1. Discuss the factors that are shaping modern management and describe the skills necessary to manage individuals and groups in the modern organisation 2. Explain what is organisational culture and the psychological contract 3. Describe the various factors impacting the behaviour of individuals in the organisational setting 4. Evaluate how effective delegation occurs in the organisational setting 5. Differentiate between groups and teams in the workplace and explain how groups can be developed into effective teams 6. Explain the process by which managers identify and select competent employees 7. Describe the relationship between employee reward and performance in the workplace 8. Explain how managers can effectively manage the processes of change and innovation in the workplace	10	Mandatory
2	Foundations of Economics This module considers how people and organisations make decisions in an effort to get the maximum return from their scarce or limited resources. Learners are introduced firstly to the basic principles of microeconomics which deals with decision making at the individual level, particularly in relation to demand and supply and secondly, macroeconomics, which considers the aggregate situation or the economy as a whole and related issues eg government fiscal policy, money and banking, unemployment and inflation. Emphasis is placed on practical application eg relating the market model to real life situations, researching and forecasting the macroeconomy etc. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the link between scarcity of resources and economic decision making by the various individuals/groups eg households, firms, governments etc 2. Explain and illustrate basic microeconomic and macroeconomic models 3. Describe the operations of the macroeconomy 4. Compile and interpret macroeconomic indicators of economic performance 5. Apply economic models to real life situations 6. Describe the role and influence of economic policy and environmental economics	10	Mandatory

Year 2

Semester	Module Details	Credits	Mandatory / Elective
1	Marketing: Theory & Practice The aim of this module is to provide learners with an understanding of core marketing theories and concepts. The module aims to facilitate the application of these theories and concepts to marketing in practice. This will be achieved with the use of academic readings, case materials, class discussions and marketing based business scenarios. Learning Outcomes 1. Discuss the major trends and forces affecting marketing and the extent to which companies must develop insights and adapt to the changing environment 2. Illustrate the role of marketing in creating value for customers and in capturing value from customers in return 3. Explain the importance of accessing and managing marketing information to gain customer insights 4. Examine consumer and business buying behaviour, and the customer experience 5. Assess customer value driven marketing strategies and integrated marketing mix elements 6. Examine the complex nature of marketing in a global market context	10	Mandatory
1	Information Systems For Business This module introduces learners to information systems and data management. It investigates how information and decision support systems can support and enhance improved business performance. Business systems concepts, business processes and business systems are covered but with relevance to real life organisations. System security and control surrounding these technologies and the ethical, social and political issues arising from information systems are also scrutinised and discussed. Learners will study how to apply tools and construct models relevant to the development of information systems. Learning Outcomes 1. Explain the importance of information within the organisation and the need for computerised support of managerial decision making 2. Examine how organisations make decisions in a technologically mediated environment 3. Evaluate and discuss contemporary and emerging trends in technology 4. Practically select and apply management theory and concepts to real-world business cases 5. Identify and discuss the ethical, social, and political issues raised by the use of information systems. 6. Classify, select and apply suitable tools to support personal and business productivity in a digitally supported environment 7. Apply spread sheet tools such as formulas, functions, lookups and data modelling to improve business & management decision-making 8. Work effectively as an individual and in teams/groups and engage in group discussion & presentation of study & research findings	10	Mandatory
1	Operations & Supply Chain Management This module integrates an understanding of both operations and supply chain management and aims to equip students with a knowledge of the strategic and operational processes that transform inputs into value-added outputs. The module covers key concepts, tools, and techniques in operations management and its role in a range of industries. Students will also learn to analyse supply chains from a strategic, tactical and operational perspective. Learning Outcomes 1. Explain and critique the strategic importance of operations and supply chain management in a competitive business environment. 2. Identify the operational challenges involved in identifying , acquiring and managing the various resources which are required in both manufacturing and service industries. 3. Evaluate the role that quantitative and qualitative operations management techniques can play as decision making tools, as well as their limitations 4. Analyse and discuss the interaction between operations and supply chain management and other functional areas of business 5. Synthesise and critically evaluate the role of supply chain dynamics, lean and agile supply chains and supply chain integration 6. Evaluate the quality processes involved in different operations and supply chain management systems, with a particular focus upon Total Quality Management. 7. Discuss effective Change Management and Continuous Improvement systems.	10	Mandatory
2	Business Law & Regulatory Environment The aims of this module are to: Introduce the learner to the Irish and European Legal Systems. Introduce the learner to the necessary components required to create a legally binding contract. Examine the legal principles that underpin employment law and consumer law. Examine relevant legislation including the Companies Act 2014 Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the structure and jurisdiction of the Irish and European legal systems 2. Identify the key elements of a contract with reference to business scenarios 3. Summarise relevant points of employment law and consumer law within a business context 4. Explain the concept of a limited liability company and other forms of business entity 5. Describe the role and function of a range of regulatory bodies. 6. Examine the nature and consequences of both company and personal insolvency	10	Mandatory
2	Financial Management The aim of this module is to develop knowledge and understanding of financial statements, understand the way organisations finance their operations, plan and control cash flows, optimise their use of working capital, and allocate resources to capital expenditure projects. Learning Outcomes 1. Identify and evaluate the financial statements of a company 2. Calculate key ratios from financial statements and interpret their significance 3. Critically evaluate the main financial management decisions of an organisation 4. Appraise financing options for a company, including sources of equity and debt finance 5. Critically appraise organisation objectives 6. Explain the main terminology and concepts used in financial management and apply these concepts to decision making in organisations 7. Critically evaluate working capital needs and funding strategies	10	Mandatory
2	Ethics, Social Responsibility & Sustainable Development This module aims to explore ethics, social responsibility and sustainability from a multidisciplinary and multi‐stakeholder perspective. It reviews theories and practice of corporate ethics, responsibility, and sustainability and illustrates how they apply to various complex business, development, and policy situations in the evolving global business landscape. It will develop in the learners the ability to create a framework by which to apply ethics to decision making and will also instil in the learner the importance of the consideration of ethics, social responsibility and sustainability principles in social entrepreneurship. Learning Outcomes 1. Identify the principles and concepts of business ethics from a personal, organisational and social entrepreneurship perspective 2. Examine the assumptions, goals, principles and values that the individual brings to complex business decisions that raise social and ethical issues 3. Distinguish between the concepts of social responsibility, integrity, and business ethics 4. Analyse the influence of corporate culture on business ethics in the workplace 5. Demonstrate the need for developing ethical frameworks, ethical standards, codes of ethics and ethical practices in organisations and businesses 6. Comment on social responsibility statements, evaluate and apply sustainability principles and assess the global challenges that involve corporate social responsibility	10	Mandatory

Year 3

Semester	Module Details	Credits	Mandatory / Elective
1	Professional Development This module is designed to promote and facilitate professional development of the learner and to prepare the learner for work in the business environment. Learners will be provided with the skills required to identify their current skills profile and future learning and training needs to help prepare them to enter the business world with confidence, a well-rounded skillset, and a clear understanding of their career objectives. Learning Outcomes 1. Undertake a critical audit of skills and capabilities in relation to employability 2. Critically reflect on own learning and skills needs 3. Articulate a coherent strategy for closing the skills/capabilities gap 4. Employ the appropriate behaviours for effective relationship management 5. Integrate personal and professional skills in order to enhance performance in the learners specific work placement 6. Identify professional development needs and create an appropriate personal development plan	05	Mandatory
1	Work Based Learning Placement This module is designed to provide the learner with the opportunity to apply knowledge, skills and competencies acquired from study to a real business environment. During the placement, learners will be expected to make significant contributions towards the running of the business as well as providing relevant input towards management decision-making. Learning Outcomes 1. Participate fully under supervision in the day-to-day operations of the work 2. Exercise appropriate judgement in a number of business functions 3. Contribute effectively to the business, working at a level commensurate with full-time employment 4. Discharge the duties and responsibilities assigned by the employer 5. Relate positively to co-workers and managers 6. Employ theory and knowledge gained in a formal classroom setting to the workplace 7. Formulate alternative strategies that the work placement organisation could employ so as to improve their overall business performance 8. Compile and present a work placement portfolio which describes roles and responsibilities during the work placement as well as reflecting on learning achieved	25	Mandatory
2	Digital Enterprise For Management This course explores how digital technologies are transforming businesses. It covers key topics such as e-Business, e-Commerce, m-Commerce, Knowledge Management, Business Intelligence, and Enterprise Systems. Students will learn about big data analytics, cloud computing, strategic information systems, and the role of digital business. The course also addresses how Information Systems provide a competitive advantage and how digital tools impact business investment, productivity, and decision-making in the digital economy. Learning Outcomes 1. Evaluate and assess data management, architectures and data mining for business and management 2. Differentiate management decision-making models and behaviours 3. Differentiate and evaluate the application of support systems concepts to management 4. Evaluate and assess the application of group based support systems concepts to management 5. Develop and assess the application of support system concepts and IT productivity tools to management decision making problems 6. Differentiate and evaluate a range of advanced enterprise support systems 7. Analyse and appraise the strategic advantage of advanced information systems	10	Mandatory
2	Human Resource Management This module addresses how Human Resource Management and business strategy connect and the implications for managing people at work. The module provides learners with insight into the practice of attracting, retaining, managing and rewarding talent, measuring performance, developing and engaging employees. Learners will examine current issues and developments in HRM in a changing world of work. Learning Outcomes 1. Discuss the role of HRM in aligning people management and business strategy 2. Appraise the nature of HRM and the emerging issues in a changing world of work 3. Evaluate the challenges and opportunities pertaining to the acquisition, retention and management of talent in the workplace 4. Appraise the techniques utilised to consider the performance of employees 5. Examine the design of effective reward structures 6. Determine theories and concepts relevant to developing talent in organisations 7. Assess techniques used to progress employee engagement 8. Evaluate the issues that underpin the employee experience and the employment relationship	10	Mandatory
2	Research Methods This module enhances participants' knowledge and understanding of research methodologies by examining various approaches and their appropriateness for writing a research proposal. Learners will critically analyse the theoretical assumptions underlying different approaches and methods, developing arguments to justify their methodological choices for a given study. The module focuses on equipping students with the necessary knowledge to successfully complete a research project. Learning Outcomes 1. Develop a research proposal that will serve as the starting point for their research project 2. Evaluate relevant literature and other sources, using these to inform and develop the Proposal 3. Evaluate the main research methodologies 4. Select and justify appropriate research approaches and methods 5. Discuss ethical issues relevant to the learners research	10	Mandatory

Year 4

Semester	Module Details	Credits	Mandatory / Elective
1	Business Strategy Understanding strategy is a critical element in modern business. Businesses need to regularly review and adopt their strategy to respond to customer and economic challenges in the context of the prevailing economic environment. This module aims to provide the learners with the how, what and why of strategy development and to provide them with the ability to understand the different types of strategy pursued by organisations at various stages in the product/market lifecycle. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe and discuss strategy terminology 2. Use strategic tools and frameworks to assess and evaluate case studies and propose strategy options 3. Comment critically on a variety of concepts, models and techniques that underpin strategic management 4. Explain the context in which strategic decision-making takes place and describe the process by which strategic decisions are made in theory and practice 5. Examine the key tasks and typical issues that are associated with the implementation of a firms strategy 6. Comment on the ethical and social responsibility considerations to be borne in mind whilst developing strategy 7. Work individually and in groups to enhance overall learning and knowledge in the area of strategic management	10	Mandatory
1	Entrepreneurship & Innovation Management This module describes the challenges individuals and firms face pursuing entrepreneurship and innovation. The key aim of this module is to provide the learner with a comprehensive knowledge of the concepts, theories and practices of managing entrepreneurship and innovation. This module is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and mindset required to successfully create, manage, and grow entrepreneurial ventures and to foster innovation within organisations. Learning Outcomes 1. Discuss the role of entrepreneurship and innovation in the economy 2. Appraise and evaluate the characteristics and influence of the various categories of entrepreneur 3. Evaluate key processes, concepts, theories and practices with respect to entrepreneurship and innovation and the different approaches to creativity 4. Develop a critical awareness of the role of entrepreneurship and innovation as a key source of competitive advantage and growth 5. Prepare and communicate a feasibility plan with respect to a new business idea 6. Describe the elements of a business plan 7. Work on own initiative and as part of a team in order to enhance overall learning 8. Critique current issues in entrepreneurshp and innovation	10	Mandatory
1	Leadership & Managing Change This module will focus on individual, team, and organizational leadership and will provide learners with the foundation for examining and developing their own individual leadership style. Learners will explore various models of change and develop skills that will enable them become more effective agents for change within organisations. Learning Outcomes 1. Discuss the main leadership approaches 2. Critically evaluate the differences between leadership and management, and develop an understanding and appreciation for leadership attributes, skills and principles 3. Evaluate the learners own leadership style through the use of the EQ Survey Instrument and assess ones own leadership attributes, including ones authentic self. 4. Classify and categorise organisational change 5. Discuss key theories, concepts and approaches to managing and leading organisational change 6. Appraise the challenging nature of managing organisational change 7. Suggest options available to address the barriers and challenges of successfully implementing organisational change 8. Evaluate various change management models.	10	Mandatory
2	Applied Research Project The applied research project provides participants with an opportunity to apply the concepts, methods and techniques that have been studied in the research methods module. The learner will demonstrate that they understand issues relating to the design, planning, writing of a level eight dissertation. The research project should be on a topic that fits with the philosophy of the BBS programme and maps to the graduate career ambitions. Learning Outcomes 1. Write, present and defend their research approach, analysis and conclusions/recommendations. 2. Construct a literature review in a specified sub-field of business and to draw material into a collective whole. 3. Source and evaluate multiple sources of business data and realise the limits and appropriate uses of such data. 4. Use appropriate methodological techniques to conduct primary and secondary research. 5. Present material that articulates ideas, insights and analysis.	30	Mandatory

Examination and Assessment

This programme is assessed through a blend of continuous assessment and final exams.

On-Campus Attendance Requirement

Delivery is blended with classes on campus in Letterkenny on a Monday evening from 6-10pm, and online classes on a Wednesday evening from 6-9pm.

Download a prospectus

Undergraduate Prospectus Online, Flexible & Professional Development Prospectus

Entry Requirements

Over 21 years by 1 January in the proposed year of entry and the successful completion of at least 5 subjects in the Irish Leaving Certificate (or an equivalent international exam). Maths and either English or Irish are required. Candidates who do not meet the above entry requirement may be admitted to the programme on the grounds of mature years (Over 23 by 1st January in the proposed year of entry), if they have attained appropriate experience and attainment thresholds deemed equivalent.

Fees

Total Fees EU: €9600

Further information on fees

Careers

Graduate careers typically include roles in Business Development, Management Consultancy, Marketing & Advertising, Operations, Self-Employment, and Talent Management.