2020 Postgraduate Prospectus THINGS HAPPEN MAKING HERE’S FOR HERE’S

ASTON UNIVERSITY BIRMINGHAM UK POSTGRADUATE PROSPECTUS 2020 HERE IS Welcome to Aston University THE ASTON A stimulating and enjoyable place to study. We pride ourselves on providing a modern, supportive and MASTERS multicultural environment and we are committed to giving you the opportunity to achieve your full potential. We are known as an enterprising university and our students work with real life projects, create start-up businesses and undertake placements and internships in industry, the professions or the public sector. This is a great springboard for successful careers in an international world of work.

Professor Alec Cameron Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive

Any questions? +44 (0)121 204 4910 [email protected]

3 HERE IS ASTON

CONTENTS

06 A university for enterprise 08 Our reputation 10 Our UK location 12 Discover Birmingham 14 Our campus 16 Accommodation 18 Your career 20 Welcoming international students 24 Entry requirements 25 Programme contents

26 Aston Business School

44 School of Engineering & Applied Science 54 School of Life & Health Sciences 66 School of Languages & Social Sciences

74 How to apply

As a postgraduate student at Aston University you will be part of a multicultural, international campus community where you A UNIVERSITY benefit from high quality teaching and work with researchers SINCE 1966 who are making a real impact on society.

4 5 A UNIVERSITY FOR ENTERPRISE

Our students develop an entrepreneurial mind-set, enabling them to start their own companies, join fast growing SMEs and innovate within multinational organisations. Our graduates are highly sought after, because of their practical skills and ability to apply knowledge. They are supported by inspirational teachers with real world, industry experience.

We are hands on, known for being the first university to introduce the undergraduate placement year. We promote learning by doing, giving our students the opportunity to gain valuable experience, through projects, placements, internships and consultancy.

We are connected to business and industry through our relationships with thousands of companies of all shapes and sizes. Based in Birmingham city centre our strategic location gives our students exposure to these companies, many of which regularly visit us on campus.

Enterprising Graduates Inspirational Teachers Nick Holzherr is founder and CEO of Whisk.com a smart Muhammad Al Mahameed helps Syrian refugees become grocery shopping list tool. entrepreneurs. Through his project, which teaches aspiring He first pitched the business entrepreneurs how to write a business plan and then idea to Lord Sugar on BBC supports them into acting upon it, he has helped Syrian One’s The Apprentice, before refugees both in the UK and world-wide, to successfully securing private investment. start and grow their own businesses. In 2019 Nick spoke at a showcase event organised by The project is inspired by my teaching BSEEN which supports Aston experience at Aston, providing an interactive students and graduates to learning environment to the learners and launch start-up businesses. allowing them to use their passion and courage to excel in their chosen business.”

6 7 OUR REPUTATION

Founded in 1895 and a University since 1966, Aston is a long established research-led university known for its world-class teaching quality and strong links to industry, government and commerce.

Aston Business School of School of School of Life and Aston Medical School Languages and Engineering and Health Sciences School Among the top 1% of business Social Sciences Applied Science Aston University’s School Aston Medical School opened for schools worldwide with triple A new world leading centre of Aston holds the Athena Swann of Pharmacy was honoured postgraduate research students accreditation from AMBA, excellence in forensic linguistics Silver Award in recognition of with a Regius Professorship in October 2015 while the first AACSB and EQUIS and one of research and practice has been advancement and promotion – one of just 12 universities MBChB undergraduate cohort the first UK business schools established at Aston University. of gender equality in SET with reputations for research started in September 2018. awarded the Small Business The Aston Institute for Forensic subjects. excellence to receive the Charter in recognition of Linguistics, which is being prestigious award as part of We deliver two unique two- ongoing work to support small backed with UK government celebrations for HM the Queen’s year Erasmus Mundus Joint businesses, the local economy investment, will include the 90th birthday in 2017. Master Degree programmes and student entrepreneurship. creation of a pioneering in photonics and 5G wireless forensic linguistics resource, Aston is ranked in the top 100 technologies and photonic named the Forensic Linguistic universities in the world by QS integration for communication, Databank. This databank World University Rankings 2019 sensing and switching. for business and management will be a global precedent, studies. providing a permanent, controlled access repository for Aston is ranked in the global malicious communication data, top 60 by the FT Masters in investigative interview data and Finance. Students learn by forensic evidence validation doing in our dedicated Reuters data for both speech and text. Trading Room.

ASTON IS RANKED IN THE TOP 10 UK UNIVERSITIES TOP by the People and Planet University League 2019, the only TRIPLE ACCREDITED 10 comprehensive and independent league table of UK BUSINESS SCHOOL universities ranked by environmental and ethical performance.

8 9 OUR UK LOCATION IN THE HEART OF BIRMINGHAM

12 Birmingham 14 10 Birmingham International Airport 1 is a 10 minute train journey to 13 15 and from the city centre. 2

London Birmingham city centre 3

7 9 4 6 8 11 5

16

Our campus

1 Aston University Main 10 Five-a-side sports pitch 14 Sack of Potatoes pub Building and reception 11 Sports pitch 15 Gosta Green pub 2 Aston Business School 12 European Bioenergy 16 Aston University nursery 3 Library Research Institute and pre-school 4 Students’ Union (EBRI) 5 Aston Brain Centre 13 Shops on campus Student 6 Vision Sciences - Tesco Express accommodation 7 Aston Medical School - Costa Coffee 8 Sir Doug Ellis - Ryman Stationery Woodcock Sports - Greggs Centre and pool - Wok & Go 9 Martin Luther King Multi-Faith Centre

10 11 THE UK’S DISCOVER SECOND BIRMINGHAM LARGEST Photo: view from Aston University CITY

01 02 03 04 With our campus based in the cosmopolitan city centre of Birmingham it’s just a 10 minute walk to reach all the facilities you would expect in a modern city such as excellent rail, bus and metro links, world class shopping centres and entertainment venues. As the UK’s second largest city, Birmingham is culturally diverse and rich in history, so you will be sure to find something to suit your tastes and interests.

05 06 07 08 Being at the centre of the UK means travelling to and from Birmingham is easy. Our international airport serves over 100 direct routes, our motorway system Aston University is proud links us to the north and south of the country with ease and we have three train stations in the city centre to be the Official UK including Birmingham New Street from which you can University Partner of travel to London in less than 90 minutes. Aston Villa Football Club From street food at the award winning Digbeth Dining Club to fine dining at Michelin starred restaurants, and cuisine from across the globe, Birmingham is fast 09 10 11 12 becoming a food tourist hotspot. 1 Digbeth street art 2 Grand Central You’ll find everything you need from high-street chains, 3 Bullring shopping centre designer shops, independent and vintage boutiques, 4 Brindley Place as well as a large variety of food stores, markets and 5 Town Hall Birmingham international grocers. 6 Library of Birmingham 7 The Mailbox shopping centre There’s a wide range of museums, galleries and 8 Birmingham city centre heritage sites to enjoy all year round. 9 Chinese quarter Over 8,000 acres of parks and open spaces offer 10 Cadbury World 11 Edgbaston cricket ground plenty of places to relax or play sport outdoors. City locations shown opposite 12 Birmingham canal network

12 13 OUR CAMPUS

As an Aston student you get the best of both worlds: a green, well-equipped, friendly campus in the centre of a vibrant city. With our entire social, support and academic facilities based on campus you’ll never have far to go.

With modern on campus accommodation and the city of Birmingham on your doorstep there are a wide range of housing options to suit all tastes and budgets.

Campus facilities include: Library: open seven days a week, (24 hour opening during exam periods) Health and welfare services including dental, optician and counselling services The Martin Luther King Multi-Faith Centre 24 hour on-site security Sports centre with sports halls, a 110-station gym and swimming pool Extensive IT facilities, some with 24 hour access General store, bookshop, computer shop, supermarket and 24 hour cash points WiFi internet access available across campus. Those studying via distance learning will have access to our Virtual Learning Environment, extensive digital library catalogue and study support via email, phone and Skype*.

*Communication channels vary for individual services

14 15 Accommodation is on ACCOMMODATION Aston’s city centre campus and everything is within walking distance. Rooms on campus have either been built within the last four years, or have recently been refurbished. All accommodation Facilities is ensuite and has access to high speed internet. Bedroom complete with study space We guarantee a room offer to all international applicants All utility bills included who accept their offer and pay their deposit before the Free high speed accommodation deadline. internet Details of the accommodation Private bathroom offer and deadline will be facilities available in your offer letter and on our website. Onsite safety For further information, including Laundry rents, see: aston.ac.uk/accommodation

TOP10 Accommodation WhatUni Student Choice Awards 2019

16 17 YOUR CAREER

Alana Matos MSc Entrepreneurship

UX Designer The Economist, London

The opportunity to work at The Economist came about following an Aston networking event, organised by Enactus one of the student societies. As a part of my studies, I joined TEDx and Enactus. Through TEDx, I was You will have opportunities to develop skills High quality careers guidance, education able to continue building on my skills and experiences to match your career and information services are delivered in design as I was their lead creative ambitions. Studying industry-relevant courses through individual appointments, group sessions and online tutorials. We bring on the team, and developed their as part of an international student body means students and employers together for on- branding for the year. That allowed me you can develop the knowledge and skills campus employer presentations, interviews to continue growing in the field, despite demanded by global and local employers. and recruitment fairs. the fact that my degree at Aston was actually in business and not design.

It is because of TEDx and Enactus that I was connected to a mentor, who ultimately referred Over 200 employers come onto campus me to The Economist and championed me within the company. Being an Economist reader, I was each year to meet our students, including…. really excited to meet him and expressed how much I love the brand, asked him about his job, etc. He asked me whether I was looking for 3M // Accenture // Aldi // Armed Forces // AXA // BAE Systems // opportunities for next year, and I mentioned my Balfour Beatty // Barclays // Bentley // BMW // Boots // BT // background in UX Design. He told me that a few roles were opening up and the very next day he Capgemini // Caterpillar // Co-op // Corus // Deloitte // E.ON // messaged me on LinkedIn asking for my CV. The design and product team in London invited Ernst & Young // ExonMobil // Fujitsu // GlaxoSmithKline // me down to an interview with the Lead Designer Harrods // HP // HM Revenue and Customs // HSBC // IBM // and VP of Product. About 30 minutes after our meeting, they had emailed me offering the role! Intel // Jaguar Land Rover // Mondelez // KPMG // L’Oreal // All of this, and I never actually filled out a job Lloyds Banking Group // Marks & Spencer // Microsoft // Morgan application– it was a direct connection of someone whom I would have never met if I had Stanley // NHS // PriceWaterhouseCoopers // P&G // Rolls-Royce // not gone to Aston and got involved in student Sainsbury’s // Santander // Tesco // Unilever // Vision Express societies.”

18 19 WELCOMING INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

over 10,000 students Campus community Accommodation Welfare and support full-time from over 130 Aston has a diverse student Accommodation on campus The University’s extensive students countries population of over 10,000 means easy access to facilities welfare and support services full-time students from over and no travel costs. All rooms for all students are accessible 10,000 130 130 countries. Most of our are single occupancy, ensuite through The Hub, which is international students choose and self-catering. We are centrally located in the front of Aston has long been a popular destination for to live on campus so that sensitive to individual student our main building. From here they can benefit from living needs and our Residence you can access the following international students. You will learn in a friendly and studying in a campus Tutors will support you if you support services: environment right in the city need any help. and diverse community in the centre of Birmingham, Advice Zone centre of Birmingham. We guarantee a room offer Counselling Service a vibrant and multicultural city. Birmingham has a There are a number of to all international applicants rich international heritage and we welcome people international student societies who accept their offer and Enabling Team at Aston including the African pay their deposit before the from all countries to be part of our city. Caribbean Society, Asian accommodation deadline. International Student Advisers (for free advice on Birmingham is home to 187 different nationalities and celebrates a wide range of major festivals from Society, Sikh Society, Chinese Details of the accommodation Student Scholar Association offer and deadline will be a range of issues including Vaisakhi to Eid to Chinese New Year. Aston is a welcoming and safe place to live and study, and we immigration and visa are proud that our university is open to students from around the world. and the Hong Kong Society. available in your offer letter and on our website. renewal). Additional support is also offered via: www2.aston.ac.uk/scholarships Students’ Union Advice Scholarships available and Representation Martin Luther King Multi- Faith Centre

20 21 aim to enable our applicants expressing your ideas English language entry Aston Welcome Week assist you with practical Scholarships requirements to reach our required levels and opinions in seminar arrangements such as of English and help them to discussions Aston University holds an shopping for food and Aston offers a large number To be accepted onto our become more confident about International Orientation Week, other necessities such as of scholarships to support programmes, you must be developing your studying in English in the UK. followed by a Freshers’ Week opening a bank account academically talented able to satisfy the University’s presentation skills for all new students, designed international students. If English language requirements. You can gain the relevant to help you settle in and adjust introduce you to the you meet our criteria you language and academic skills improving your The level required will depend pronunciation of English to student life. services provided by the will be encouraged to apply on the programme you are necessary for success on your Students’ Union including for a scholarship. If you are applying for. future course by attending one developing your Second and final year students clubs and societies, offered a scholarship you of our pre-sessional English grammatical accuracy and called ‘Aston Aunties’ will help student sports clubs and We strive to make your must accept your place to courses. The length of course range of structures you throughout these two sports provision secure your award. application process as easy required will be detailed in your weeks. The Aunties provide a as possible, however in all offer letter. extending your general, friendly face and help guide introduce you to the cases we reserve the right to academic and subject- you around campus, show academic system at Aston request an English language 28, 18, 9 and 5 week specific vocabulary you the sights and answer any University, study methods Aston Job Shop programmes are available qualification and/or conduct an questions. and approaches to Aston University’s Job Shop before the beginning of your developing your research interview. learning can help you find part time course. skills. Welcome Week will also: introduce you to cross work to support you during For more information on During your pre-sessional help you adapt to a new cultural communication your studies. our pre-sessional English Pre-sessional Programmes programme you will focus on: culture, language, food, and basic presentation programme please visit our in English for Academic the British climate and skills through workshops Purposes developing your academic website. your surroundings at Aston writing skills and group interaction. For applicants whose English University falls short of our minimum entry practising effective reading introduce you to the requirements we provide a strategies University and its services range of pre-sessional English understanding academic Language programmes which help you meet other lectures and taking notes international students

22 23 ENTRY PROGRAMME REQUIREMENTS CONTENTS

ASTON BUSINESS SCHOOL...... 26 SCHOOL OF LIFE & HEALTH SCIENCES...... 54 Standard entry Entry requirements Executive DBA...... 29 PhD...... 29 MSc Cognitive Neuroscience...... 56 requirements for international The Aston MBA...... 30 MSc Health Psychology...... 57 students MSc Accounting and Finance...... 32 Optometry/ Ophthalmic Science...... 58 MSc Business Analytics...... 32 PgDip/MSc for Overseas Pharmacists...... 59 One of the following: An official academic transcript, with an official MSc Business Economics and Finance...... 33 MSc Drug Delivery...... 60 English translation, of your university grades to MSc Business and Management...... 33 MSc Pharmaceutical Sciences...... 60 a good UK honours degree (minimum date. MSc Business Psychology...... 34 MSc Pharmacokinetics...... 61 lower second class) MSc Entrepreneurship...... 34 MSc Regenerative Medicines Manufacturing...... 62 Students whose native language is not English equivalent overseas degree recognised MSc Enterprise Development...... 35 MSc Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine...... 62 will also need to satisfy our English language by Aston University. MSc Finance...... 35 MRes Biosciences...... 63 requirements. The level will depend on the MSc Global Operations and Service Management...... 36 MSc Biosciences for Industry...... 63 As well as: programme you are applying to. MSc Human Resource Management...... 36 Top-up modules in Biomedical Science...... 64 two professional references – at least one Pre-sessional English language programmes MSc Information Systems and Business Analysis...... 37 PhD...... 64 must be from an academic referee are available for good applicants whose English MSc International Accounting and Finance...... 37 Continuing Professional Development...... 65 qualification falls just short of these requirements. MSc International Business...... 38 an official academic transcript of your MSc Investment Analysis...... 38 university grades to date For more information about qualifications view LLM International Commercial Law...... 39 SCHOOL OF LANGUAGES our Aston in your country webpage available a completed application form. MSc Strategy and International Business...... 39 & SOCIAL SCIENCES...... 66 from www.aston.ac.uk/international MSc Strategic Marketing Management...... 40 MSc Work Psychology and Business...... 40 Double MA in Europe and the World...... 68 Additional entry requirements MSc Crisis and Disaster Management...... 41 Joint MA in Multilevel Governance and International Where a programme has additional entry MSc Research in the Social Sciences (Management).....41 Relations...... 68 requirements, above those listed above, these Online MBA...... 42 MSc Research in the Social Sciences are detailed in the course information in this Online MSc Business and Management...... 42 (Management)...... 69 prospectus. Online MSc Business Analytics...... 43 MA in International Relations and Global Online MSc International Accounting and Finance...... 43 Governance...... 70 Applicants with extensive work experience MSc Research in the Social Sciences We recognise the value of extensive (International Politics)...... 70 professional experience. If you do not have the SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING Double Masters in Governance and International academic qualifications, but have extensive and & SOCIAL SCIENCE...... 44 Politics...... 71 relevant professional experience and a proven MA Forensic Linguistics...... 71 ability to succeed, we would welcome your MSc Artificial Intelligence...... 46 MA in Teaching English to Speakers of Other application. MSc Computer Science...... 46 Languages (TESOL)...... 72 MSc Engineering Management...... 47 MA in TESOL and Translation Studies...... 72 Alternative qualifications MSc Supply Chain Management...... 47 MA in Translating for Business and International The information contained on our website MSc Mechanical Engineering...... 48 Institutions...... 73 details the typical entry requirements for MSc Data Analytics...... 49 PhD...... 73 your course. Applicants with alternative MSc Communication Systems and Wireless qualifications may wish to enquire with the Networking...... 49 relevant admissions teams prior to application MSc Smart Telecom and Sensing Networks...... 50 whether or not their qualifications are deemed MSc Photonic Integrated Circuits, Sensors and acceptable. For less commonly encountered Networks...... 51 qualifications this will be judged on a case-by- Research Degrees...... 52 case basis in consultation with the academic MSc by Research...... 52 admissions tutor. PhD...... 53

24 25 Aston For full details of entry requirements for each Business course please visit the course page on our website: School www.aston.ac.uk/abs

Aston Business School is Learn Business. Do Business. The Aston Global Advantage among Europe’s largest Our postgraduate portfolio The Aston Global Advantage is business schools, with has been designed in close our professional development approximately 3,000 partnership with business programme that runs throughout students. It has been and industry, giving you an all MSc programmes at Aston conducting pioneering ideal platform from which to Business School. Focusing on research into modern build your future career. Our professional development and employability, this integrated business and management course structures enable you to gain the skillsets needed to module gives you the opportunity issues for over 60 years, succeed in today’s competitive to identify, develop and apply the making it one of the longest workplace, such as negotiation, key transferrable skills you will established, research-based communication, leadership, gain throughout the year. As you business schools in the UK. teamwork and innovative thinking. work through this compulsory It is skills such as these that keep module you will: Aston Business School is one of our graduates highly sought after just 1% of business schools in > Build a skills portfolio which by some of the world’s leading allows you to showcase the world to hold AACSB, EQUIS organisations. and AMBA accreditations - three the competencies you have of the most recognised and To put these skills into practice acquired during your studies, prestigious accreditation bodies we believe that our students competencies that are highly desirable to employers in the world. deserve the very best of opportunities to experience the worldwide. We have also been recognised as real business environment, with > Take part in a range of skills a leading international business live projects and internships to workshops and simulations. school by featuring in the World prepare you for the real world. Top 100 Universities for Business > Develop an entrepreneurial and Management Studies. (QS Each of our students will have mind-set and learn about World University Rankings 2019). at least one module which is effective commercialisation of partnered with a business where a product. they will work on a real business issue set by that business. > At the end of your course you will have the option to do a Aston Law School is part of Aston work placement, set up your Business School and delivers own business, study abroad our highly respected LLM in or do a business simulation. International Commercial Law.

26 Aston Business School T +44 (0)121 204 4910 E [email protected] W www.aston.ac.uk/abs Aston Business School 27 Executive DBA PhD

Study abroad opportunities Double Degrees Programme overview Programme overview Our PhD programme is designed to train doctoral We have long-established There’s even the chance to spend The Aston AMBA-accredited Executive DBA is a professional doctoral degree, the highest level of students for successful careers in academia or partnership agreements with an entire year overseas with one industry. many business and management of our partner institutions and business research qualification available. It offers a schools across the world, who gain an additional qualification, distinctive opportunity to work with world-leading Research strengths offer the same high standards thanks to our double degree academics to advance research to continually Our research strengths are embedded in our of teaching quality. These programme. The cost of your progress thought on how to develop effective academic departments: agreements provide you with second year of study is 50 per organisations. To succeed, participants must show > Accounting the option to spend some of cent of the fee that you pay that they can transform practice with the knowledge > Economics, Finance and Entrepreneurship your study time with one of our for your MSc studies at Aston they have created. Participants discover how to turn > Law partner institutions to gain further Business School. complex ideas into actions and become recognised > Marketing and Strategy academic credentials in addition as thought leaders in their field. > Operations and Information Management to your Aston degree course. Programme structure > Work and Organisational Psychology You can study abroad after the The Executive DBA is a part-time distance learning You are strongly advised to explore these academic end of your taught programme. course which can be completed in four years. Actual department web pages before applying. Please Opportunities range from a four- completion may vary depending on circumstances. also visit our PhD web pages for any potential PhD week summer school to a full > Year 1 (up to two maximum): Research Methods funding opportunities. semester exchange. Course > Year 2 Qualifying Report Programme content All programmes are taught in > Years 3-4 (up to six years maximum): Individual English and are tuition-free: they In year 1 you will undertake four ESRC approved research project and submission of thesis/ taught Research Methods modules designed to are based on reciprocal exchange portfolio agreements and although you will provide you with the necessary skills to successfully need to take care of your travel complete your PhD and to develop as a well-rounded and living expenses, you will not researcher. In year 2 you will typically concentrate Additional entry requirements on data collection and analysis. Year 3 is typically a need to pay any tuition fees to the For direct enrolment onto the Executive DBA partner institutions. you must have: an MBA, MSc or an MA degree writing up year, where you will spend most of your in business or management (or an equivalent time developing your thesis. professional qualification) and a minimum of five years’ experience in a senior role. There are Research environment additional entry requirements for students whose We have an exciting and vibrant research environment first language is not English. that enables you to engage in various research events Design your own degree and seminars. There is also a dedicated research Areas of study Flexible Degrees society which organises social and academic events. Our new MSc suit of programmes Academic departments also run research seminars offers you the opportunity to design Strategy MSc Entrepreneurship and Analytics where students are encouraged to present their your degree to suit your personal research and get feedback from colleagues. In and professional career aspirations. Leadership MSc Leadership and Entrepreneurship addition, our Summer School in Advanced Research The programme enables you to Methods offers additional training opportunities. MSc Leadership and Analytics identify the areas that you need to Marketing develop further to be successful as Analytics MSc Marketing and Analytics a business leader, and to tailor your study to build a qualification that Entrepreneurship MSc Marketing and Entrepreneurship Additional entry requirements ensures you gain the appropriate Undergraduate degree - 2:1 or above (or skills and knowledge to realise your MSc Marketing and Leadership equivalent). Masters degree - 65% overall average (with dissertation element). Two ambitions. You can create your MSc Marketing and Strategy academic references. IELTS - 6.5 (Reading own degree by choosing two areas and Writing 6.5, Listening and Speaking 6.0). of study and combining them to MSc Strategy and Analytics TOEFL - 93 (Reading 23, Writing 26, Listening produce the degree that you want 19, Speaking 19). to study. MSc Strategy and Entrepreneurship

Choose two areas of study from the MSc Strategy and Leadership list shown and then match them to following degrees and apply. It is as simple as that. Each degree programme concludes with a business project which will give you the opportunity to analyse a business problem and apply the tools that you have learnt during your degree.

28 Aston Business School Aston Business School 29 The Aston MBA

The Aston MBA is an extensive programme which immerses you into the principles of strategic thinking in a business context and prepares you for a career at the forefront of business. The Aston Edge The Aston Edge is a personal leadership development Select from one of Aston’s range of MBA programmes to suit your professional commitments. You’ll programme which runs throughout the MBA core experience a dynamic, real-life, learning development experience, allowing you to accelerate your curriculum to develop your professional skills to help you Aston is part of an career with a positive, dynamic, and forward-thinking strategic mindset. to become a better performer, achieve your goals, and elite group of Business equip you with the skills to respond to the big challenges that lie ahead in your future. Schools worldwide with Mode Duration Attendance Start date triple accreditation from Full Time 12 months On campus September You will develop key skills such as negotiating, managing AACSB, EQUIS and AMBA staff expertise, acting with confidence, to lead, inspire and Executive 24 months Online study combined with intensive September, January, influence. You’ll develop a leadership and entrepreneurial study weekends on campus April, July mindset in everything you do. Executive 24 months Online study combined with intensive September, January, Apprenticeship* study weekends on campus April, July The Aston Edge is delivered through a series of dynamic, engaging leadership workshops and seminars with high Online 24 months 100% Online September, November, profile key speakers and guests to drive your strategic January, March, May, July thinking and respond to real world business challenges.

* There are currently three > The Executive Apprenticeship MBA For more information visit Executive Apprenticeship options: > The Executive Apprenticeship Management of Manufacturing MBA www.aston.ac.uk/mba > Healthcare Management MBA

Entry requirements More than an MBA To be eligible to study the Aston MBA (all routes), you will > Business principles into practice: You will learn need: by putting business principles into practice, solving > a good UK honours degree real-world business challenges. You will engage in live > an equivalent overseas degree recognised by Aston consultancy projects, engaging with high level brands, University workshops, speaker sessions, and live projects. Your > a degree-level professional qualification final module is a flexible self-directed activity which you Parveen Rai > at least three years’ relevant work experience post- will negotiate with your programme director. COURSE: graduation. > Assessment: You will be assessed by simulated and MBA (2019) live project activity as you demonstrate your innovative We accept applications from candidates with extensive and strategic thinking. Your final module is a flexible DESTINATION: work experience who have not completed a graduate CEO at Rai Property module with a key leadership focus, negotiated by you. qualification. You will initially be enrolled as a Certificate Investment > You will develop key professional student and attend all the same classes as MBA students. The Aston Edge: Non-Executive Director at development skills through The Aston Edge, our Coventry and Warwickshire Provided you pass your first six modules, you will transfer personal leadership development programme which Local Enterprise Partnership to the MBA at no additional cost. There are additional runs throughout the MBA. entry requirements for international students. Please see >  A range of events and activities will our website www.aston.ac.uk/mba. Networking: Aston shaped my personal enable you to grow your networks to build professional and professional profile. business relationships. Thanks to the connections Join the ranks > Mentor support: To support your learning you will of the Business School I Aston Business School is consistently recognised by the have the opportunity to be partnered with an Aston was invited to the House of world’s most prominent rankings as being at the forefront MBA graduate mentor for study support – a key Lords to consult on a draft of business education sounding board for your studies. agenda while I was studying. > Triple accredited - Aston is part of an elite group of > Career support: Receive comprehensive career The Aston MBA has many Business Schools worldwide with triple accreditation management support from Aston’s dedicated MBA merits. To name a few, the from AMBA, AACSB and EQUIS. careers consultant. cultural diversity was amazing, > The Aston MBA is one of the world’s top MBAs (Tier 1) the dedicated study areas, Core content Optional content in CEO Magazine Global MBA Ranking 2019. > Strategic management > E-business Strategy the hundreds of real-life > Our Online MBA is ranked 12th in the world by CEO > Leadership > International Business case studies we worked on Magazine and top 20 in the world by QS Distance > Marketing > International Finance and the very friendly and Online MBA Rankings 2019. > Accounting > International Marketing approachable academic staff, > Business and Management studies at Aston are > Operations Management Management which you will never find ranked in the world’s top 100 in the QS World > Entrepreneurship > Advanced Strategy anywhere else in the UK.” University Rankings 2019. Your final module is a professional flexible module with a leadership focus – self-defined and negotiated by you. 30 Aston Business School Aston Business School 31 MSc Accounting and MSc Business Analytics MSc Business Economics MSc Business and Finance Also available Online and Finance Management Also available Online Programme overview Programme overview Programme overview Designed for graduates from any discipline, this Modern businesses in the UK and worldwide have a You will gain detailed knowledge of economics Programme overview programme provides a solid understanding of great need for professionals with analytical planning and finance subjects and develop familiarity with You’ll acquire the business skills sought after by accounting and finance principles and their joint and big data analysis skills. This course will equip you key theories that aid in understanding real world graduate employers worldwide, including interpreting role. You will learn how organisations use financial with the quantitative skills needed to understand and issues. You will gain a wide range of practical and financial statements, developing marketing and information for decision-making, performance engage with complex data, as well as the analytical transferable skills, including quantitative methods, pricing strategies and understanding strategy and evaluation and financial reporting purposes in different tools to drive business advantage. You will deepen which are in high demand by employers. innovation processes. This course is suitable for contexts including businesses and public sector your knowledge of business analytics, web analytics, graduates of all disciplines, giving you a broad organisations. data mining and management. Core modules knowledge of business management. > Econometrics 1 Core modules Core modules > Econometrics 2 Core modules > Financial Accounting and Reporting > Descriptive Analytics > Advanced Quantitative Methods > Accounting for Non-Financial Managers > Management Accounting > Effective Management Consultancy > Economics of Governance and Organisations > Applied Research Methods > Contemporary Issues in Financial Reporting > Decision Models > Microeconomics > Marketing Management > Strategic Management Accounting > Performance Analytics > Quantitative Methods for Finance > Strategic Management > Sustainability Accounting and Accountability > Data Mining and Web Analytics > Ethics in Academic Practice > People and World Organisations > Business Finance > Software for Analytics > The Aston Global Advantage > Operations Management > Financial Analysis > Ethics in Academic Practice > Business Project/Dissertation > The Aston Global Advantage > Ethics in Academic Practice > The Aston Global Advantage > Ethics in Academic Practice > The Aston Global Advantage > Business Project/Dissertation Elective modules > Business Project/Dissertation > Business Project/Dissertation > Entrepreneurial Strategies > Entrepreneurship and Innovation in Emerging Elective modules Elective modules Elective modules Economies You will choose a particular pathway from a number > Fundamentals of Audit and Taxation > Business Analytics in Practice > International Finance of options including International Business, Finance, > Islamic Accounting and Finance > Digital Marketing > Investment Banking Governance, Marketing and Organisational Behaviour. > Corporate Governance, Regulation and > Financial Econometrics > Strategic Management Compliance > Big Data for Decision Making > Valuation of Investments > International Finance > Advanced Spreadsheets and Databases > Business Finance Why choose this course? > Research Design, Practice and Ethics > Simulation for Managerial Decision Making Optional modules enable you to tailor the course to shape your needs. The skills you gain on a > Services Innovation Professional accreditation business and management masters will allow Why choose this course? MSc in Accounting and Finance is accredited by you to start contributing to your employer’s You will learn from leading academics who are at organisation immediately. Aston Business School the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants Why choose this course? the forefront of their research area and regularly There is a high employer demand for is ranked by QS in the top 100 in the world for (ACCA) and the Chartered Institute of Management interact with policymakers and businesses to Business and Management. (2019) Accountants (CIMA). Successful completion of this graduates of this course. You will improve your advise them on key decision making matters. employability potential by gaining the expertise course leads to exemptions from these professional This course is ranked 6th in the UK in the needed to analyse big data, improve decision- Eduniversal Best Masters Ranking 2018. Career prospects accounting bodies. You will still need to secure making and help companies gain a competitive Our graduates have secured employment in a professional training and complete further exams in advantage. This course is ranked 3rd in the UK wide range of roles such as Brand Activation order to become fully qualified in accountancy, but in the Eduniversal Best Masters Ranking 2018. Additional entry requirements Executives; Communications and Training these exemptions demonstrate to future employers Some fundamental knowledge of economics Executives; Management Consultants and (successfully completed 10 ECTS credits, the your commitment and potential to complete sector Senior Business Analysts. This has involved Additional entry requirements equivalent of two standard undergraduate working for organisations including Unilever qualifications. You must be able to demonstrate strong modules). quantitative skills. (United Arab Emirates); Tesco (UK); Deloitte (India) and Lloyds TSB (UK.). Why choose this course? Career prospects Employment prospects are good and with Career prospects This course will prepare you for a career in the global markets continuing to be in financial This course will prepare you for a range of financial sector, for example as an economic or turmoil organisations need to be able to report specialist careers in data analytics, such as a financial analyst. accurately, analyse and understand the financial consultant, data analyst, manager or business situation at all times. analyst.

Career prospects Our graduates have secured employment in a wider range of roles such as Accountants, Analysts and Risk Consultants. This has involved working for organisations including EY (China); Deutsche Bank (London) and KPMG (Russia and CIS).

32 Aston Business School Aston Business School 33 MSc Business Psychology MSc Entrepreneurship MSc Enterprise MSc Finance

Programme overview Programme overview Development Programme overview This course is an ideal introduction to human Learn to think like an entrepreneur, and develop an Also available Online This course will develop your knowledge and behaviour in the workplace. Gain an understanding understanding of the global business environment. understanding of financial markets and how they impact of what makes individuals thrive at work, learn how Enterprise skills are highly valuable outside of new Programme overview on decision-making. Studying MSc Finance at Aston to improve organisational performance, and how to venture start-ups, as employers are increasingly This innovative course is ideal if you want to provides you with access to the most innovative tools make the workplace a happier environment. looking to hire employees with an entrepreneurial develop your management, entrepreneurship, and available, including the dedicated Bloomberg Trading mindset. You’ll gain analytical and strategic skills to innovation skills.There are no lectures or exams; this Room and market trading simulations, to give you the Core modules enable you to set up and manage new enterprises programme puts application and experience at its experience and confidence you need to succeed in the > Organisational Development within a national and international context, and the core. You will undertake live business challenges in finance industry. The MSc Finance is also recognised by > Learning and Talent Development knowledge required for developing innovation-based a team, putting entrepreneurship and management CFA which means that studying this course will position > Assessment, Performance and Reward business strategies. principles into practice. You will learn how to generate you well to obtain the Chartered Financial Analyst® > Organisational Behaviour ideas, develop new product/service ideas and bring designation, which has become the most prestigious > Strategy, Change and Leadership Core modules them to market. Most importantly, you will learn investment credential in the world. > Research Methods > International Entrepreneurship the importance of building your enterprise around > Business Project/Dissertation > Business Venturing customer value. Core modules > The Aston Global Advantage > Entrepreneurship and Innovation in Emerging > Advanced Corporate Finance Economies Core modules > Derivatives Elective modules > Ethics in Academic Practice > Enterprise Creation > Fixed Income Securities Choose two: > International Business > Creating and Leading High Performance Teams > Quantitative Methods for Finance > Employee Relations in Context > Entrepreneurial Strategies > Applied Research > Financial Econometrics > Careers and Counselling > The Aston Global Advantage > Innovation and Entrepreneurship > Finance Theory > Employee Relations and Counselling > Business Project/Dissertation > Enterprise Management and Growth > Trading in Securities Markets > Strategic and International Human Resource > Leading High Performance Teams > Ethics in Academic Practice Management Elective modules > Corporate Social Responsibility Challenge > The Aston Global Advantage > Marketing Management > Strategic Business Sustainability > Business Project/Dissertation > Operations Management > International Marketing Management > Strategic Management > Strategic Global Outsourcing and Offshoring Elective modules > Management of Innovation Why choose this course? > Operations Management If you like learning through application and > Trading Techniques > Economic Environment of Business > Strategic Management practice, this is the course for you. You will > International Finance Professional accreditation > Management Consulting learn how to set up and manage a business by > Investment Banking MSc Business Psychology is accredited by the > Intellectual Property Strategy and Management actually setting up and managing a business. There will be no exam stress to distract you. Association for Business Psychology and students > Business Finance > Accounting for Non-financial Managers All of your assessment will be authentic Why choose this course? on this course are eligible for student membership and developmental. You will be assessed while they study. The programme is NOT accredited > People and World Organisations Our facilities allow you to experience real life > Marketing Management through business/product proposals, personal situations with access to a Trading Room facility by the BPS and graduates would not be eligible reflections, marketing plans and real life market > Management of Innovation and asset market trading simulations. Entry into for registration with the HCPC as a practitioner research, all of which are crucial skills for the > Economic Environment of Business our CFA University Affiliated Program signals to psychologist. modern professional. This is one of the only potential employers that the Aston curriculum courses of its type in the country. It is different – is closely tied to professional practice and is are you? well-suited to preparing students to sit for the Why choose this course? Why choose this course? CFA examinations. Further, students are eligible Get consultancy experience on a live business Develop a career either as a general manager Career prospects to receive a number of scholarships for the CFA or as an organisational consultant, or take a first dissertation project. Access BSEEN (Birmingham This programme would be ideal for anyone Program each year. step towards an academic or research-based Skills for Enterprise and Employability Network): wishing to set up their own business or social a business incubator located on campus, career. enterprise. It also provides an excellent route to Additional entry requirements offering tailored business support, workshops management and leadership. A good level of quantitative and analytical skills and enterprise events throughout the academic Additional Entry Requirements gained from a degree in finance or economics Applicants should ideally have an undergraduate year. This course is ranked 5th in the UK in the (we will also consider an upper second class degree which contains psychology, social Eduniversal Best Masters Ranking 2018. degree In mathematics, statistics, computing, sciences or business related subjects. engineering or the sciences). Career prospects This course will prepare you to be an Career prospects entrepreneurial employee in today’s dynamic Career prospects Our graduates have secured employment in a Our graduates have secured employment corporate environment. Recent graduates wide range of roles such as Administrative and in a wide range of roles such as Analysts, have set up their own businesses in a variety Diplomatic Officers, Business Development Consultants and Investment Risk Officers. This of sectors including: Marketing, Energy, Managers, Human Resource Advisors and has involved working for organisations including Manufacturing and Insurance Services. Human Resource Partners. This has involved Goldman Sachs (UK), EY (France) and BNP working for organisations including the Ministry Paribas (Luxembourg). of Human Resources (Malaysia), Prodos Ltd (Nigeria), Transport for London (UK) and Ford Motor Company.

34 Aston Business School Aston Business School 35 MSc Global Operations MSc Human Resource MSc Information Systems MSc International and Service Management Management and Business Analysis Accounting and Finance Also available Online Programme overview Programme overview Programme overview This course will provide you with a key knowledge Learn the complex yet subtle art of managing people Ranked 3rd in the UK by Eduniversal Best Masters Programme overview of advanced operations management at a global in organisations, and develop skills for analysis and 2018 this specialist course prepares you for a range You will learn how to critically understand accounting within level. You will develop knowledge of the latest global, in-depth policy formation as well as the broader of careers in information systems consultancy, international business. You will build on the accounting economic, environmental and social challenges and discipline of management. This course is fully business analysis and management. You’ll gain the and finance knowledge gained during your undergraduate strategic management operations, and become accredited by the largest internationally recognised technical skills to develop and manage systems degree to take on a senior management role within a critically aware of key issues such as sustainability, HR professional body, the Chartered Institute of alongside a practical understanding of project global organisation. You will focus on the application of globalisation, digitisation, advanced manufacturing Personnel and Development (CIPD), and will provide management and consultancy. knowledge to real world situations. This course has a strong services, and the impact of emerging technologies. you with the ideal qualification for developing your international orientation and includes the opportunity to You will learn how to apply theories and techniques of career in HR. Core modules work abroad as part of your degree. operations management in diverse socio-economic > Foundation in Business Systems contexts, industrial sectors, and cultural environments. Core modules > Developing Business Systems Workshop Core modules > Organisational Behaviour > Managing Projects > International Business Finance Core modules > Strategic and International HRM > Applied Research Methods > Strategic Management Accounting > International Operations Strategy > Assessment, Performance and Reward > The Consultants Toolbox > International Business > Managing Multi-organisational Enterprises and > Learning and Talent Development > Business Project > Sustainability Accounting and Accountability Enterprise Systems > Employee Relations in Context > Ethics in Academic Practice > International Context of Corporate Reporting > Managing Projects > Employment Law > The Aston Global Advantage > International Taxation and Accounting > Management of Innovation > Research Methods > Business Project/Dissertation > Ethics in Academic Practice > Operations Management > Managing and Interpreting Financial Information > The Aston Global Advantage > Applied Research Methods > Ethics in Academic Practice Elective modules > Business Project/Dissertation > Advanced Spreadsheets and Databases > Business Project > The Aston Global Advantage Elective modules > The Aston Global Advantage > Business Project/Dissertation > Simulation for Managerial Decision Making > Enterprise Resource Planning > Financial Analysis > Business Project/Dissertation > Current Issues in Global Audit and Assurance Elective modules > Data Mining and Web Analytics > Risk Management Elective modules > Strategy, Change and Leadership > Strategic Global Outsourcing and Offshoring > Islamic Accounting and Finance (choose two from optional modules below) > HR analytics > Data Mining and Web Analytics > Corporate Governance, Regulation and Compliance > Enterprise Resource Planning > Effective Management Consultancy > Strategic Global Outsourcing and Offshoring > Big Data Professional accreditation > Entrepreneurship and Innovation in Emerging Economies > Service Operations Management This course is fully accredited by the Chartered > Data Mining and Web Analytics > Sustainable Operations Management Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD). Why choose this course? Information systems are the foundation of > International Business Strategy > Industrial Service Innovation > Performance Audit > Simulation for Managerial Decision Making business and their operations. This course will Why choose this course? give you the technical, organisational and people > Research Design, Practice and Ethics > Services Marketing This course enables you to gain Associate skills that international employers want across a > Digital Marketing membership of the Chartered Institute of range of sectors. > Intellectual Property Strategy Personnel and Development (CIPD) after Why choose this course? > Fundamentals of Occupational Health and Safety successfully completing the course. If there is Career prospects Several modules are accredited by the Association sufficient demand from students you may also This course will prepare you for a range of of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) and the be offered a chance to undertake Occupational specialist careers in consultancy and business Chartered Institute of Management Accountants Why choose this course? Test User (OTU) training and gain a certificate analysis, and is also a suitable first step if you (CIMA). This means you will benefit from exemptions, With increasing complexities in global trade which is an accredited qualification by the British want to pursue a research or academic career. which reduces the amount of ACCA or CIMA due to factors such as Brexit and US-China Psychological Society (BPS) in psychological Our graduates have secured employment in a trade disputes, and the importance of professional training and exams you’ll need to take testing. There will, however, be an additional wide range of roles such as Business Analysts, to become a fully qualified accountant once in emerging markets, businesses are now seeking cost for this qualification. Data Analysts, Information Systems Graduate employment. This course is ranked 5th in the UK in professionals that have strategic product, Trainees and Junior Consultants. This has service and data management capabilities. In the Eduniversal Best Masters Ranking 2018. Career prospects involved working for organisations including this course you will develop these capabilities by Our graduates have secured employment in JCDecaux (UAE), Scope International (India), learning from academics who are at the forefront a wide range of roles such as HR Executives, Roland Berger (Nigeria), Harman International Career prospects Our graduates have secured employment in of these research areas and who regularly HR Assistant Managers, Regional HR Business (China), Xtremax (Indonesia), Jhpiego (Kenya), a wide range of roles such as Tax Associates, interact with businesses and policymakers. Partners and Personnel Managers. This has Jaguar Land Rover, Microsoft and Santandar (UK). Trainee Accountants and Accounting Analysts, for involved working for organisations including organisations including PwC, Capitax Financial Ltd Career prospects KPMG (India), Lloyds Banking Group (UK), and IBM. You will be qualified to join global firms in both Amazon Logistics (UK) and Tesco (UK). manufacturing and service sectors as well as run your own global business. Many former students at Aston who specialised in global operations have secured jobs in firms such as Jaguar Land Rover, Rolls Royce, Wincanton, PwC IBM, Goldman Sachs amongst others.

36 Aston Business School Aston Business School 37 MSc International MSc Investment Analysis LLM International MSc Strategy and

Business Programme overview Commercial Law International Business This course is recognised as an affiliated degree by Programme overview the CFA Institute and was ranked 14th in the UK Programme overview Programme overview Today’s business professionals operate in a global in the Financial Times Masters in Finance rankings This varied and stimulating course is open to Ranked 4th in the UK in the Eduniversal Best marketplace with organisations needing to learn 2018. Discover how to undertake security valuation graduates in law and other academic backgrounds. Masters ranking 2018 this course will give you the important cultural differences if they are going to and portfolio management by studying equity, debt If you didn’t study law at undergraduate level, this understanding of strategy needed to excel in a succeed across international borders. This course and derivative markets in domestic and international degree will help you gain an understanding of how management consulting, strategy or international will give you cultural awareness and problem solving sectors, and learn about the key techniques used by law and business intersect within a global context. management career. You will acquire the knowledge skills. The wide range of elective modules will enable financial traders. This course has a strong focus on For those with law qualifications, this course gives and skills needed to analyse companies’ strategic you to develop skills in a specific business function the practical application of finance within a trading you the opportunity to develop advanced legal situations and solve complex strategic problems. You linked to international business or pursue related or corporate setting. Your studies will culminate knowledge and a broad range of business skills. will also develop your ability to assess and develop areas such as entrepreneurship and business in a financial analyst evaluation of a UK listed Globalisation has made international commercial law business strategies and operational plans, in a sustainability. company for your final project. During the summer increasingly significant. We examine the basis of the national, international and cross cultural context whilst term you will also have the opportunity to attend a relationship between law and business within this working on live business projects. Core modules workshop designed to help students taking the CFA® context. Core modules > International Business (Chartered Financial Analyst) Level I examination. Core modules > Strategic Management > Advanced Topics in International Business Core modules > Law and Business in a Global Context > Advanced Topics in Strategy > Strategic Management > Valuation of Investments (A) > Dissertation > International Business Strategy > Economic Environment of Business > Valuation of Investments (B) > International Business > Ethics in Academic Practice > Quantitative Methods for Finance Elective modules > Ethics in Academic Practice > The Aston Global Advantage > Competition Law and Policy > Trading Techniques > The Aston Global Advantage > Business Project/Dissertation > Banking and Financial Services Regulation > Security Analysis > Business Project/Dissertation > International Insolvency and Restructuring Elective modules > Investment Management > Legal Risk Management Elective modules Choose four modules (subject to pre-requisites and > Business Finance > Internet Law > Management Consulting restrictions on some combinations): > International Finance > Corporate Governance Regulation and > Intellectual Property Strategy and Management > Intellectual Property Strategy and Management > Ethics in Academic Practice Compliance > Business Finance > Business Finance > The Aston Global Advantage > Intellectual Property Strategy and Management > International Finance > International Finance > Business Project/Dissertation > Strategic Business Sustainability > Accounting for Non-Financial Managers Professional accreditation: Elective business modules: > People and World Organisations > Strategic Business Sustainability > Employee Relations in Context You will have the opportunity to attend preparation > Marketing Management > People and World Organisations > Employment Law and revision classes for the Chartered Financial > International Marketing Management > Marketing Management > Economic Environment of Business Analyst (CFA) Level One course. You will also have > Strategic Global Outsourcing and Offshoring > International Marketing Management > International Business Strategy the opportunity to complete the Bloomsberg Market > Entrepreneurial Strategies > Strategic Global Outsourcing and Offshoring > Strategic Global Outsourcing and Offshoring Concepts Certification - an industry recognised > Management of Innovation > Operations Management > Business Finance qualification. > Advanced Topics in International Business > CSR, Sustainable Development and Public Policy > International Finance > Economic Environment of Business > Entrepreneurial Strategies > Global Business Ethics > International Business Strategy Why choose this course? > Entrepreneurial and Innovation in Emerging Practice your skills with a dedicated Bloomberg Why choose this course? Economies Trading Room facility. You can get ahead Why choose this course The unique combination of strategy, of the competition by practising in a life-like The course is delivered in partnership by our management consulting and international environment and gaining hands-on experience Law School and Business School. This means business in this course will provide you with Why choose this course? with Bloomberg’s database. This course is you will get the best of both worlds, benefitting a solid foundation for a career in strategy, This course is ranked 4th in the UK in the ranked 5th in the UK in the Eduniversal Best from a first-class law and business education. management consulting or International Eduniversal Best Masters Ranking 2018. Masters Ranking 2018. management. Career prospects This course will prepare you for a successful Career prospects Additional entry requirements Career prospects Our graduates have secured employment Demonstrable quantitative and analytical skills, career in a range of legal roles, such as a Our graduates have secured employment in a as Assistant Advisors, Marketing Specialists, having studied some finance, economics or solicitor, barrister, company secretary, in-house wide range of roles such as Business Process Relationship Marketing Professionals and Senior other quantitative modules at undergraduate counsel or legal advisor. It will also develop Analysts, Consultants, Senior Analysts and Analysts. Employers include Ernst & Young, level. your understanding of business and equip you Transformation Consultants. This has involved Bosch (China), IBM (India) and Deutsche Bank with a range of transferable skills to enhance working for organisations including Jaguar Land your employability. Our graduates have been (UK). Career prospects Rover, Hyundai, Deloitte (Spain) Deutsche Bank This course provides you with the knowledge, successful in securing positions with prestigious (UK) and Cap Gemini Consulting (Germany). understanding and skills needed for a career in international companies and at leading the financial, insurance and corporate sectors. consultancy firms. Recent graduate positions include: Auditor, PricewaterhouseCoopers (Italy); Financial Analyst, Deutsche Bank (UK); Investment Manager, Bank of China (China), CRM, Volkswagen.

38 Aston Business School Aston Business School 39 MSc Strategic Marketing MSc Work Psychology MSc Crisis and Disaster MSc Research in Management and Business Management the Social Sciences

Programme overview Programme overview Programme Overview (Management) Effective business leaders need to understand marketing This course allows you to consider practical, real-world This course brings together the areas of crisis from a strategic perspective. This course advances your organisational and business issues, combined with management, disaster management, and risk Programme Overview understanding of marketing processes and procedures, the academic and scientific rigour of occupational management to provide an understanding of the This postgraduate taught programme brings including marketing research, marketing planning, psychology as an applied science. It is the first impact that such events may have on businesses, together broad-based training in social science marketing communications and brand portfolio building. step for students to progress to become Chartered environment, and society as a whole as well as and business research methods and advanced A selection of specialist marketing modules enables you Occupational Psychologists. current approaches to manage crises and disasters. discipline specific development within the business to focus on what is right for your career. Core modules This course will equip you with the critical knowledge and management field of your choice. As such, it Core modules > Organisational Behaviour about the management of disasters and crises will equip you with the critical knowledge and skills in different contexts. It will provide you with the required for effective social scientific research, > Marketing Management > Learning and Talent Development research, knowledge and skills to investigate issues while providing you with the opportunity to engage, > Marketing Research > Workplace Design and Health > Marketing Strategy > Research Methods in Human Resource Management in this field, and to device strategies and solutions for through advanced research, with business and > Analysis for Dissertation Research and Business and Organisational Behaviour governments, business and NGOs. This includes a management practice. broad range of analytical, communication, and IT skills > Ethics in Academic Practice > Assessment Performance and Reward Core modules > Strategy, Change and Leadership to contribute to organisations dealing with disasters > MSc Dissertation > Philosophy of Research in the Social Sciences > Careers and Counselling and crises, and to develop capabilities to augment > The Aston Global Advantage > Research Strategy, Design and Practice > Business Project/Dissertation > Ethics in Academic Practice decision-making. The programme has a set of core > The Aston Global Advantage modules that will equip you with the fundamental skills > Qualitative Research in the Social Sciences Elective modules > Business Project/Dissertation and then you select one of two specialisation streams: > Quantitative Research in the Social Sciences (select four modules) Humanitarian Stream or Business Crises. > Econometrics 2 > Intellectual Property Strategy and Management Elective modules > Effective Management Consultancy Choose one: Core modules > Accounting for Non-Financial Managers Elective modules > Strategic Business Sustainability > Accounting for Non-Financial Managers > An Introduction to Crisis Management > Any two 15 Credit Discipline Specific Modules > Marketing Channels and Strategic Salesforce > Strategic Business Sustainability > Crisis Management and Decision-making from Aston Business School’s Taught Masters Management > Strategic and International Human Resource > Ethics in a Crisis > Integrated Marketing Communictions Management > Crises Technology and Analytics Programmes (subject to timetabling and > Consumer Behaviour > Marketing Management > Applied Research availability) > Strategic Brand Management > Operations Management > Simulation for Managerial Decision Making Dissertation > Strategic Management > Services Marketing > The Aston Global Advantage All participants will be required to carry out a piece > Management of Innovation > International Marketing Management > Business Project/Dissertation of academic research in their discipline of choice. > Economic Environment of Business > Digital Marketing This research will be supported by a supervisor and > Strategic Management Elective modules Professional accreditation > Humanitarian Stream will culminate in a 15,000 words thesis. Non-marketing modules This course is British Psychological Society (BPS) > Humanitarian Supply Chain Management (select up to two modules) accredited, and completion leads to the academic > Non-state Actors, Human Rights and Crisis > Intellectual Property Strategy and Management basis for the BPS Chartered Occupational Psychology Management Why Choose this Programme? > Accounting for Non-Financial Managers qualification (QOccPsych). This programme is ideal for those individuals > Strategic Business Sustainability Business Crises Stream currently holding an undergraduate and/or > Strategic Management Advanced Tools and Techniques for Crisis postgraduate degree who want to follow a Why choose this course? Management Risk and Resilience Management research-related career in either the academic Professional accreditation Studying business alongside specialist work or non-academic sectors. The MSc Research Upon completion of this course, you will eligible for psychology modules will enable you to build your in the Social Sciences is also an ideal ‘stepping career as an occupational psychologist or in stone’ onto the Aston Business School PhD direct entry onto the Chartered Institute of Marketing other professional roles. Why choose this course? Programme, with graduates normally exempted (CIM) Diploma in Professional Marketing. Employment opportunites and career prospects from the PhD Programme training requirements Additional entry requirements are excellent. There is an increasing global in year 1. Why choose this course? BSc in Psychology (UK only), or a recognisable demand for businesses, communities and To become a well-rounded marketing professional, capable equivalent degree (overseas). Only undergraduate nations to increase their resilience to potential Career Prospects of working in a variety of sectors. This course is ranked 5th Psychology degrees which give the Graduate crises and disasters, particularly through using The knowledge and skills garnered from studying in the Eduniversal Best Masters Ranking 2018. Basis for Registration will allow students to the principles of crisis and disaster management, the MSc Research in the Social Sciences will progress to Chartered Occupational Psychologist. disaster preparedness, response and recovery equip you to pursue a range of careers, including planning. managerial, analytical and research roles Career prospects within private, public and non-governmental Our graduates have secured employment in a wide range Career prospects of roles including product and brand management, market Recent graduate positions include: Business Career Prospects organisations. This course also provides an research, market planning and product development, Psychologist (Recruitment and Assessment), Graduates from this programme may seek excellent route into further academic study, with marketing communications, media relations and direct Jaguar Land Rover; Learning and Development careers working in academia, business, students going on to complete doctoral research marketing. This has involved working for organisations Specialist, Network Rail; Occupational Health government and non-profit organisations in areas before pursuing an academic career. including Hyundai, Pepsico International (Cyprus), Merlin and Wellbeing Scientific Advisor NPower; such as emergency planning, disaster response, Entertainments (Austria), Tesco (UK) and L’Oréal. Occupational Psychologist, NHS; Research crisis communication, and risk management both Scientist, BAE Systems. in the UK and overseas.

40 Aston Business School Aston Business School 41 Online courses Aston University Online is flexible. The 100 per cent online postgraduate degree programmes are designed for learners looking to advance their education while maintaining a professional life. Course materials and a support network are built into the virtual learning environment. You’ll be guided through structured modules and assessed in a variety of ways, including group assignments, individual projects, as well as written and oral examinations. A Student Support Advisor will work with you every step of the way to ensure you always have the support you need. You remain a student and a professional, so what you learn today can be applied tomorrow in real-world situations.

For more information please visit studyonline.aston.ac.uk

MBA MSc Business and MSc Business Analytics MSc International

Programme overview Management Programme overview Accounting and Finance The Aston Online MBA is an advanced business Being able to demonstrate a range of transferable degree that is designed for working professionals who Programme overview skills is crucial for enhancing your employability and Programme overview want the highly ranked and triple accredited Aston This course features a versatile business curriculum for a successful career in business analytics. This This course builds upon your existing expertise in Business School experience in a flexible and personal focused on developing highly competent course will not only support you in developing these accounting and finance to help further your career online format. It’s a comprehensive online MBA professionals and managers. Open to students but also in developing the analytical skills essential and cement your credibility. We expect graduates programme for ambitious professionals who are ready from all disciplines and academic backgrounds, for analysing and presenting business data, key to a of the programme to progress toward senior to take the next step, gain the ability to think like a the programme refines business competencies businesses’ decision making processes. management roles in their organisations. leader, make decisions and execute what they’ve while introducing essential management principles learned in the real-world. and techniques. Graduates gain a wide range of Core modules Core modules skills including interpreting financial statements, > Descriptive Analytics > International Business Finance Core modules developing marketing and pricing strategies, as well > Effective Management Consultancy > Sustainability Accounting and Accountability > Measuring and Enhancing Financial as understanding strategies in tandem with innovation > Decision Models > Corporate Governance, Regulation & Compliance Performance processes. > Performance Analytics > Global Business Ethics > Creating and Delivering Customer Value > Data Mining and Web Analytics > Strategic Management Accounting > Crafting Organisational Strategy Core modules > Software for Analytics > International Business > The Global Economic Environment > Accounting for Non-Financial Managers > Business Analytics in Practice > The Economic Environment of Business > Designing and Managing Operations, Systems > Marketing > Big Data for Decision Making > The International Context of Corporate Reporting and Processes > Strategic Management and Assurance > Leading Complex Organisations > The Economic Environment of Business > International Accounting and Finance Project > Dissertation/Project > Operations Management > Organisational Behaviour Pathways > Dissertation/Project > Finance > Entrepreneurship Pathways > Global Business > Finance > Organisational Development > Entrepreneurship > Global Business > Organisational Development

42 Aston Business School Aston Business School 43 School of For full details of entry requirements for each Engineering course please visit the course page on our website: & Applied Science www.aston.ac.uk/eas

The School of Engineering Quality What makes us stand out? and Applied Science has We’re very proud to say that many a long tradition of quality of our courses have received Research teaching, and a reputation professional accreditation from Internationally known for exciting for internationally-known, the relevant subject organisation, research projects, Aston is host to cutting-edge research. which means that our courses world-leading research institutes have undergone a strict quality in photonic technologies, We offer a range of inspiring, assurance process. Our students professionally-relevant courses bioenergy, materials and urban can feel confident that they are technologies for the environment. which will prepare you for a studying at a university at which successful and rewarding career. recognised industry standards Industry By choosing postgraduate study are being met. with us, you will be exposed to The School of Engineering and new ways of thinking and gain a In 2017 Aston University Applied Science has strong competitive edge in the exciting received a Gold award, the connections with industry world of engineering and applied highest possible accolade, in leaders in the world of science, science. the Government’s new Teaching engineering and technology. Excellence Framework (TEF). There is a great breadth of The same year, the School of The School’s Industrial Advisory academic expertise in the school, Engineering and Applied Science Board consists of leaders from with staff broadly categorised received the Athena SWAN Silver across relevant industry sectors, into the following subject areas: Award for the second time. This who are actively involved with the computer science, electronic award recognises our progress development of the School and engineering, engineering systems in addressing gender and other our programme portfolio. and management, mechanical inequalities in academia. engineering and product design, Accreditations as well as chemical engineering Many of our courses are accredited and applied chemistry, and by world-leading organisational mathematics. bodies such as the Institution of We are always investing in people Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), and facilities, such as state-of- Institution of Engineering and the-art laboratories, so that we Technology (IET), and the Chartered can continue to deliver the best Management Institute (CMI). to our students. We want you to

achieve your full potential.

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44 Engineering & Applied Science T +44 (0)121 204 4910 E [email protected] W www.aston.ac.uk/eas Engineering & Applied Science 45 MSc Artificial Intelligence MSc Computer Science MSc Engineering MSc Supply Chain Programme overview Programme overview Management Management This course will enable you to develop a systematic For graduates of any discipline. This conversion understanding of the Artificial Intelligence domain masters course offers an opportunity for non- Programme overview Programme overview and the associated research and professional skills computing graduates to become an industry The Engineering Management MSc provides you with This course is delivered through a collaboration necessary in practice. Through a variety of interactive accredited professional and respond to the a knowledge and understanding of the principles between the School of Engineering and Applied lectures, tutorials, hands-on practical sessions and computing challenges of the business world. underlying the strategic management of engineering Sciences and Aston Business School which makes projects, you will prepare for the future challenges of AI. Boost your career and access roles in a rapidly and technology businesses. Addressing the full range this course distinctive. You will receive a broad The programme is very practical and features growing industry with an MSc qualification in a of management knowledge and skills needed for a knowledge from academics across both schools strong connections with industry. Collaboration with highly in-demand skill set. Gain the theoretical successful career, this course is designed for those who work closely with business and industry. You companies within our Industry Club takes place via underpinning needed to support sound analysis, with an undergraduate degree in a technical subject will develop knowledge and understanding of the guest lectures, field trips, showcases and industrial design and delivery of technology solutions, who aspire to a managerial career. theoretical and applied perspectives of supply chain and develop a systematic understanding of the management and logistics, along with specific areas MSc dissertations. The teaching team consists Core modules of academics who are internationally well-known software development process, and the associated of supply chain management by studying specialist professional skills necessary in practice. > Strategic Management and Finance modules. These areas include: relationships, researchers in both theory and applications of AI, > Project Management regularly publishing in prestigious journals and partnering, ERP, simulation, purchasing, contracts, Core modules > Human Resources and Change Management planning and optimisation. presenting at major conferences in this field. > Foundations of Object-Oriented Software > Customer Engagement in an Engineering Core modules Development Enterprise Core modules > AI: Vision and Reality > Team Project > Research Methods > Simulation for Managerial Decision Making > Machine Learning > Software Engineering > New Product Development > Operational Effectiveness, Lean and Agile > Mathematics for AI > Human Computer Interaction > Management in Engineering Enterprises Manufacturing > Multi-Agent Systems and Strategic Decision > Database Systems > Operational Effectiveness, Lean and Agile > Human Resources and Change Management Making > Dissertation Manufacturing > Strategic Management and Finance > Research Methods and Professional Practice > Dissertation > Supply Chain Management Elective modules > Supply Management > Dissertation > Data Structures and Algorithms Professional accreditation > Logistics and Transportation > Software Project Management Elective modules Professional accreditation by the Chartered > Research Methods > Information Security > Computational Intelligence Management Institute acknowledges that the > Dissertation > Deep Learning > Reliability in Software Engineering Programme meets the rigorous demands of high > Robotics and Autonomous Systems > Data Mining quality management education that is globally Professional accreditation > Data Mining *Optional modules will be subject to staff availability, recognised. This course is accredited by the Chartered Institute and minimum number of students. of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) and the Chartered Management Institute (CMI). On successful Why choose this course Why choose this course? completion of the degree, you will also be awarded a Strong international content will teach you Study a cohesive, tailored programme designed Why choose this course? CMI Diploma in Management. in collaboration with Industry that allows you Computer Science at Aston is ranked in the Top about industry abroad and enhance your global to develop both theoretical foundations and 10 in the UK (Guardian University Guide 2017). employability. Aston Business School is in the 1% of business essential practical experience in AI. You will also Get professional experience, and a wide schools globally with triple accreditation from the have access to our Industry Club, which helps to perspective on IT and business through Career prospects leading accreditation bodies in the UK, Europe and connect you to employers and organisations. employment at collaborating host companies, or This programme is perfect for those seeking a USA, AMBA, AACSB and EQUIS. the Aston student-run software company. career in the Engineering and Manufacturing sectors, particularly those who aspire to senior Additional entry requirements A bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or Additional entry requirements management positions. Project management Why choose this course? a related discipline. Evidence of knowledge A bachelor’s degree in a non-Computing roles are a common first destination. This programme is suitable if you are seeking a of mathematics and programming should be subject, and GCSE Maths Grade B/6 and Previous graduates have secured engineering career in the supply chain management sector, provided when the degree is not in Computer above or equivalent. Successful applicants will management roles at organisations such as particularly if you aspire to senior management Science. commence their study in mid-August 2020. Rolls-Royce plc, Nestlé, Caterpillar, Ericsson and positions. Department of Civil Aviation. Career prospects Career prospects Career prospects This MSc programme will enable graduates to This programme will equip you for a leadership Recent graduates have gone on to secure take on prestigious PhD positions, in addition role within the computer science industry. roles such as Supply Chain Analyst, Assistant to embarking on industry careers, such as: AI Purchasing Manager, Corporate and Planning Architect, AI Technology Engineer, AI Software Strategist, Quality Controller, Planning Executive, Engineer and Scientific Programmer. Procurement & Logistics Expeditor, Junior Resources Manager and Content Operations Executive. They work at some of the major companies in the industry, including Nissan, Students without a computer science background Accenture, Royal Mail, Royal Air Force, and should consider the MSc Computer Science Singapore Airlines Cargo. conversion masters course.

46 Engineering & Applied Science Engineering & Applied Science 47 MSc Mechanical MSc Data Analytics MSc Communication

Engineering Programme overview Systems and Wireless This programme provides students with an in- Programme overview depth and high level of scientific knowledge and Networking This course aims to develop students’ performance understanding of data science that is applicable to prediction skills required in the modern engineering industry. The course is designed as a combination of Programme overview environment, especially design, performance tutorial-based learning and self-directed study, and This course is designed to address the rapidly estimation and optimisation processes. It gives you’ll have the option to focus on specific areas of increasing demand for qualified engineers and students the opportunity to apply state-of-the-art interest through your choice of a research project. In managers with well-equipped knowledge in modern methods to industrially-relevant products, and to the programme you will create and implement data communication systems and wireless networks. explore the process of design and development and analytics algorithms using advanced computational You will focus on a wide range of subjects from the value of the design and evaluation cycle. This skills and review the success of these algorithms. fundamental information and communications programme is designed for engineering and science You’ll undertake the critical analysis and evaluation technology (ICT) to contemporary developments in graduates, providing a wide exploration of new and of the methodology and techniques related to data the wireless and mobile industries. You will develop advanced technologies. science. the knowledge and skills needed to equip you for an intellectually challenging career as a qualified engineer. Core modules Core modules > Sustainable Energy > Statistical Machine Learning Core modules > Design Studio > Algorithmic and Computional Mathematics > Telecommunications Networks and Quality of > Research Project > Understanding Data Service > Probabilistic Modelling > Radio Systems and Personal Communications Elective modules Networks > Project Management AND/OR New Product > Data Science Programming > Artificial Neural Networks > Digital Communication and Information Theory Introduction Processes > Pervasive and Mobile Communication Networks > Water Treatment Technologies AND/OR Practical > Network Science > Specialist Research Skills and Techniques > Project Management Numerical Methods > MSc Dissertation > Computational Fluid Dynamics and Applications > Research Project > CAD Principles and Materials Selection Elective modules > Advanced Computer Aided Design (ADVCAD) > Mobile Data Networks Why choose this course? > Finite Element Analysis: Theory and Application With self-directed study, you’ll have an excellent > Broadband Wireless Networks > Optical Communications Systems Professional accreditation opportunity to develop independent research skills. You’ll be supervised by experienced > Internet of Things The MSc Mechanical Engineering is accredited by staff from the field, who have managed similar the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) for courses over the years for both academia Professional accreditation the purpose of meeting the additional educational and industry. The Netlab machine learning Postgraduate programmes in Electrical and Electronic requirements of Chartered Engineer (CEng). software package has been developed at Engineering have previously been accredited by Aston - as well as known visual informatics The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET). Abdallah El Hayek methods - demonstrating our excellence in the Accreditation for this newly revised course is pending. mathematics arena. Why choose this course? Get free student membership throughout your studies. Impressive accreditation, a worldwide reputation Course MSc Mechanical Engineering and staff who can pass on the benefit of genuine Career prospects commercial experience will enhance your A high level of expertise in an in-demand prospects and progression. The module choices on my course suit area will enhance your global employability Why choose this course? my chosen career perfectly. The staff are Move into the high-demand area of prospects, or alternatively prepare you for further communication systems and wireless Additional entry requirements all very friendly, which makes me feel independent study with a PhD. networking. Gain the skills needed to be part First or second class UK Honours Degree in right at home! Meeting new people is of a rapidly developing industry with fast-paced engineering, physical science, mathematics or a made very easy. The range of different exciting developments. Access a wide range of related subject. activities the university holds through the dedicated facilities and specialist laboratories. week is definitely the highlight of my stay Access the facilities of the world-renowned Career prospects here so far.” innovative research institute, the Aston Institute Practical engineering modelling, research and of Photonic Technologies. project management skills will help your career progression in industries where computer-based Additional entry requirements technology is required including manufacturing, A first or good second class Honours Degree in R&D, science, IT, design and academia. Recent a relevant engineering field, science or closely graduates have been employed in a range of related discipline jobs including: product development with a manufacturer of domestic heating products and computer aided design with a manufacturer of Career prospects military/surveillance equipment. Our students have worked with organisations including: BlackBerry, BT, BAE, Daconi, Jaguar Land Rover.

48 Engineering & Applied Science Engineering & Applied Science 49 MSc Smart Telecom and Sensing Networks MSc Photonic Integrated Circuits, Sensors and Networks (SMARTNET) (PIXNET)

Programme overview Why choose this course? Programme overview Why choose this course? Study one of engineering’s key multidisciplinary Study a crucial field in the evolution of SMARTNET is a unique two-year Erasmus Mundus areas of the future. Develop the skills and PIXNET is a two-year Erasmus Mundus Joint Master information and communication devices. Joint Master Degree programme supported by knowledge to contribute to the development Degree programme supported by European Union Receive high-quality training, specialising European Union funding. You will receive training of a 5G network infrastructure. As part of the funding. You will receive high-quality training in in photonic integration for communication, in the interdisciplinary fields of photonics and 5G Erasmus Mundus programme, graduate with photonic integration for communication, sensing and sensing and switching. As part of the Erasmus wireless technologies for data communication, two full MSc qualifications. Benefit from close switching. Offered by a consortium of universities, Mundus programme, graduate with two sensing and data processing. Offered jointly by relationships with 17 industrial partners. you’ll benefit from distinctive and complementary full MSc qualifications. Benefit from close three universities, you’ll benefit from distinctive and academic qualities, and strong educational and relationships with key industrial partners. The complementary academic qualities, and strong Additional entry requirements research environments. Alternatively, a non-Erasmus, strong involvement of industrial partners in the programme will offer you the opportunity educational and research environments. A bachelor’s degree in telecommunications, Aston University only, PIXNET training pathway is electronics, electrical engineering, computer to bridge the gap between your academic Alternatively, we offer a non-Erasmus, Aston available, leading to a standard MSc qualification science, physics, mathematics or similar. knowledge and practical application. You will be University only, SMARTNET training pathway leading (180 credits). Both programmes are aimed at training encouraged to carry out a number of industrial to a standard MSc qualification (180 credits). On students to design, realise and assess innovative Career prospects visits to enhance your MSc project. both programmes, you will study a range of subjects You will benefit from the strong involvement integrated devices based on photonic technologies. highly relevant to both industry and society including of industrial partners in the programme and The Erasmus programme is an interdisciplinary, Additional entry requirements optical and wireless networks, sensing networks, will be encouraged to carry out a number of multinational initiative to train telecommunication A previous qualification in electrical engineering, 5G technologies, photonics networks and big data industrial visits to enhance your MSc project. and electrical engineers to investigate the adoption electronics, telecommunication engineering, methods. On completion, you will be a telecommunication of Photonic Integrated Circuits (PIC) as the physics or a related discipline. engineer with a broad and interdisciplinary central element in the evolution of information and Core modules background, and a global vision of your communication devices. Career prospects As a student of the collaborative SMARTNET field, who will be able to move ideas from Both programmes will equip you not only programme, you will be able to choose to follow one basic science to application and thrive on Core modules with the theoretical knowledge but also the collaboration. Potential demand from industry for transferable skills in related disciplines that will of six pathways: Specialisms > 5G Broadband Infrastructures a workforce with these skills is enormous. As a student of the collaborative PIXNET programme, give you the potential to play a leading role in the evolution of integrated photonics as a key > Advanced 5G Network Architectures you will be able to choose to follow one of the technology for the future development of many > Energy Efficient Smart Networks following pathways: modern industries, including ICT, biomedical > High Capacity 5G Network Systems > Optical switching technologies industries, sensing and the aerospace industry. > Connectivity Technologies for Smart Network > Optical transceiver technologies Graduates from similar previous programmes Systems > Design of Photonic integrated devices have gone into senior level roles in industry or > Big Data Analytics and 5G > Photonic integrated devices manufacturing onto PhD study in European institutions. > Theory and techniques for photonic integrated devices

For full details of the Erasmus funded 2 year For full details of the Erasmus funded 2 year programme, visit: smartnet.astonphotonics.uk/ programme, visit: pixnet.santannapisa.it

50 Engineering & Applied Science Engineering & Applied Science 51 Research Degrees MSc by Research PhD If you would like to pursue a rewarding postgraduate research degree that matches your interests and Programme overview Programme overview prepares you with high-level knowledge and skills, The MSc by Research is a one year full-time, or two Our PhD programme is designed to train Doctoral Aston is the right choice. year part-time, thesis based research degree for students who aspire to become future academics or students looking for a research programme, but who professional industry researchers. Research within the School of may not be ready or able to commit to the three years Engineering and Applied Science of study required by a traditional PhD programme. Programme content (including any focusses on four strategic themes: research methods courses) Programme content (including any At the start of your PhD you undertake the Research > Communications and Sensing Methods module which is designed to provide > Health technologies (biomedical engineering, research methods courses) As part of the MSc by Research, students complete you with an introduction to the skills necessary biomimetic materials, bioinformatics) the following training: to successfully complete your research, and help > Bioenergy and Sustainability develop you as a well-rounded researcher. You will > Understanding complex systems (physical, > Research Skills and Professional Development - a then focus on the initial research reading around your statistical/probabilistic, and knowledge generic research skills module. project subject, before focusing on data collection engineering) > Specialist Research Skills and Techniques - this or experimental research and analysis (depending module is individually tailored to help students on the project and whether this is laboratory based Each of these represents major challenges develop the specialist (i.e. subject and discipline nor not). Finally, you will write up your research and and opportunities at an international level. By specific) research knowledge and skills necessary develop your thesis ready for your viva voce, where focussing our efforts and working together with our for their project. you will defend your research outcome and project collaborators across the world, we are making an > Creation of an Individual Training Plan - to be hypothesis. important contribution to long-term solutions to a agreed with your supervisor at the outset and number of critical problems affecting societies and updated at the three monthly reviews. economies. Entry requirements MSc by Research students must submit a thesis for In addition, the School has established several You should have been awarded, or expect to examination; the thesis is the primary focus of this Research Institutes to strengthen its strategic achieve, a first or upper second class Honours degree. activities: degree or a Master’s degree in a relevant subject (or an equivalent qualification from an overseas > Aston Institute of Photonic Technologies institution). We also consider applicants who have > Aston Institute of Materials Research substantial and significant work experience in a > Aston Logistics and Systems Institute relevant field. TOEFL IBT: 93 (23 in Writing, 19 > Aston Institute of Urban Technology and the in Speaking, 18 in Reading and 19 in Listening). Environment IELTS: 6.5 (6.0 in Writing Speaking, Reading and > European Bioenergy Research Institute Listening). Pearsons English language test: 63 > Systems Analytics Research Institute with no less than 57 in each band.

We have an exciting and vibrant research environment that enables you as a research degree student to engage in various research events and Alina Patelli seminars. There is also a dedicated research society, which organises social and academic events. Course PhD Computer Science

I was exposed to a vibrant, enthusiastic research community with ties throughout the university and beyond. This fostered my passion for artificial intelligence and provided me with the experience and new skills needed to develop into an independent young investigator.”

52 Engineering & Applied Science Engineering & Applied Science 53 School of For full details of entry requirements for each Life & Health course please visit the course page on our website: Sciences www.aston.ac.uk/lhs

Our ethos is to produce Careers: graduates who can make 94% of our research We regularly review our courses is World Leading a real difference to the to ensure that we produce fresh, communities they serve in industry informed curricula or Internationally both the UK and across the that will prepare you for the job Excellent (3*/4*) world. market or further study. So it’s in the most recent not surprising that our graduates Research Excellence We are acknowledged as one go on to develop their careers in Framework of the leading centres of health industry, in organisations like the REF 2014 sciences within the UK with NHS or continue their research an outstanding reputation for at a range of world-leading teaching and research. The universities. Top 200 in the world integration of this research into 2019 QS Graduate our courses and teaching gives Facilities: Employability Rankings our students a distinct advantage Each of our subject areas includes in having access to the latest a range of facilities available for trends, thinking, issues and student use. This includes: research in their particular field of study. lecture and seminar spaces with modern audio-visual There is a huge breadth of equipment academic expertise within the well-equipped and modern School and a range of courses student, project and research at postgraduate taught, research laboratories and continuing professional state-of-the-art equipment development levels. across all course areas We pride ourselves on providing on-site public optometry and a modern, supportive and audiology clinics. multicultural environment and we Funding: are committed to giving you the opportunity to achieve your full Each year Aston offers a range potential. of scholarships to talented postgraduate students. You can find up to date details at www.aston.ac.uk/scholarships

54 Life & Health Sciences T +44 (0)121 204 4910 E [email protected] W www.aston.ac.uk/lhs Life & Health Sciences 55 MSc Cognitive MSc Health Psychology Neuroscience Part-time online also available Programme overview Why choose this course? Programme overview Explore the complexities of psychological health > Accredited by the British Psychological Unique in its emphasis on specialist training in with this innovative course. Gain an in-depth Society (Stage 1 Professional Training in cognitive neuroscience, coupled with transferable Health Psychology) and commended for the understanding of mental, emotional and social support provided to students. research skills for career and professional factors and theory underpinning health psychology. In > Choose to study full-time on campus or development, this course will see you study specialist preparation for a career as a health psychologist you’ll part-time via distance learning. modules that combine theory and practice. It is learn to apply your knowledge within multicultural and > Programme staff are internationally especially recommended to those who want to multidisciplinary settings as well as developing your recognised researchers in their fields and specialise in the area of cognitive neuroscience, get understanding of advanced research methodology work with a number of NHS clinics and other a feel for research before embarking on a PhD or and analysis of qualitative and quantitative data to health related organisations. to enhance your CV by studying a research-related carry out independent work of publishable standard. > Use purpose-built psychology labs, including masters qualification. > 12 months full-time on-campus a focus group room, driving simulator and cubicles equipped for cognitive, behavioural > 18 months (up to a maximum of 3 years) part-time Core modules and physiological testing. online. > Introduction into Cognitive Neuroscience /  Professional Development Core modules Entry requirements Minimum of a upper second class honours > Mini-project in Cognitive Neuroscience > Advanced Research Methods in Health degree (2:1) that confers eligibility for Graduate > Advanced Statistical Analysis Psychology Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) of the > Advanced Methods in Cognitive Neuroscience > Health Behaviours and Behaviour Change British Psychological Society (BPS). Students > Advanced EEG and MEG Methods in Cognitive Interventions who have a psychology degree with an Neuroscience > Health Inequalities and Public Health equivalent grade of a 2.1 or above from a non > Research Project. > Psychobiology of Illness and Long-term UK institution but do not have GBC will be Conditions advised to apply to the BPS for recognition of > Research Project. their degree and confirmation of eligibility for Why choose this course? GBC. This will be a requirement of securing a > Use state-of-the-art facilities including the Professional accreditation place on the course. Aston Brain Centre and psychophysical This course is accredited as Stage 1 training in Health laboratories. Psychology by the British Psychological Society Career prospects > Study at a school ranked 5th out of 97 UK (BPS). In order to become a Chartered Psychologist This course will prepare you for membership higher education institutions for Research in with the BPS or a registered Health Psychologist of the BPS Division of Health Psychology and Allied Health Professions and Studies in the towards further training and employment in with the Health and Care Professions Council most recent REF (2014). health psychology. Upon successful completion (HCPC), students must complete Stage 1 and of this course, you can apply for posts as a Stage 2 training. Further details of how to become a research assistant or assistant psychologist Entry requirements Minimum of a upper second class honours Chartered Psychologist are available from the BPS. working in a range of chronic health or health degree (2:1) in psychology or a related field such Jaspreet Kalsi promotion fields. Recent graduates have as biology. gone on to secure roles within a variety of Course organisations like the NHS, private clinics, MSc Health Psychology charities and educational institutes, recent Career prospects roles include: Assistant Psychologist, Health Our graduates have taken on roles including: Psychologist, Children & Young Person’s Further studies, for example completing a PhD Destination Therapeutic Support Worker, Counselling at universities such as Aston, Cardiff, Derby, ABA Tutor, ABAble Ltd Therapist, PhD student. Liverpool, Sussex and Warwick. Research and clinical roles such as research assistant, data Studying at Aston not only enhanced my analyst, clinical researcher and trainee clinical existing skills and qualities, but it also physiologist/ neurophysiologist within the NHS. played a significant role in developing Educational roles within secondary education or my career. Aston is not only dedicated as educational consultants. to supporting their students in their academic studies, but they are also passionate about producing well- rounded, employable graduates.”

56 Life & Health Sciences Life & Health Sciences 57 Optometry/ Ophthalmic Science (PgCert, PgDip, MSc and Professional Doctorate) PgDip/MSc for Overseas Pharmacists (OSPAP)

Programme overview Why choose this course? Programme overview Why choose this course? The Overseas Pharmacist Assessment Programme > Accredited by the General Pharmaceutical > Flexibility to gain a postgraduate certificate, Council (GPhC). This unique series of qualifications have been designed (OSPAP) is available to those who hold a pharmacy to enable eye care professionals in practice to enhance diploma, masters or doctoral qualification > Top 20 in the UK (Pharmacology & that fits in with your work and personal life. qualification gained overseas (outside of the EEA) and their knowledge and critical awareness of current Pharmacy, 2020 Complete University Guide). > Select the modules most relevant to your are registered, or eligible to register, as pharmacists > Access to modern facilities including: issues, and to be at the forefront of the academic professional practice and area of interest. in their country of qualification. It focuses on new pharmacy practise and clinical skills discipline through taught and research elements. developments in key pharmaceutical sciences, clinical suite, patient simulators and a range of laboratories. Course details Entry requirements pharmacy and pharmacy practice together with the By enrolling on our innovative postgraduate Flexible A good honours degree (usually 2:1 or above) study of health service delivery and pharmacy law Framework you’ll have the option of taking each of from a recognised university in an ophthalmic or and ethics within the UK. Entry requirements biomedical field. A pharmacy degree that enables you to register the stages of the course in order: PgCert, PgDip, MSc > 9 months – Full-time Postgraduate Diploma > 12 months – Full-time MSc. as a pharmacist with the GPhC, please see the then DOptom/ DOphSc, or you could choose to enrol website for full details of the GPhC approval onto the framework and exit the course at any of the Additional entry requirements 2 years of professional qualification. Core modules process. This course is subject to fitness to stages. The number of taught elements taken at any Minimum of an upper second class honours (2:1) Topics covered throughout the PgDip/MSc include practice regulations and you will be required one time is flexible and can be accumulated over a for those applying for the MSc/Doctorate. the relevant elements of law, ethics, policy, practice, to undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. period of up-to six years for those that complete the Must be an optometrist or working within and clinical pharmacy. Students completing the MSc DOptom/ DOphSc. This system has been created to optometry or ophthalmology. will also undertake a research desertion project. enable you to be flexible with your level of commitment > Recognised Prior Learning can be applied Please visist the website for full details. Career prospects from the outset so you can combine study with your for if you have completed any further Our OSPAP course has an excellent track current work and personal commitments. postgraduate courses /qualifications; Max 60 Professional accreditation record of students obtaining and successfully RPL for Doctorate and max 40 RPL for MSc. Successful completion of the course will allow you completing the pre-registration training. > PgCert Optometry - 60 taught credits to undertake a pre-registration placement in the UK, > PgDip Optometry - 120 taught credits Career prospects before applying to register as a Pharmacist with the The Flexible Framework aims to enhance the > MSc Optometry/ Ophthalmic Science - 120 taught General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC). Please note career prospects for practitioners who cannot and 60 dissertation credits undertake full-time study. With professional the university is not responsible for the provision of > Doctor of Optometry/ Ophthalmic Science - 180 development at its heart, studying at Aston will a pre-registration training place nor preparation for credits and successful completion of a substantial provide you with the opportunity to undertake professional qualifying examinations. personal research project. practice based research and boost your experience in various fields of optometry and The only prerequisite is that the core Research ophthalmic science, providing you with greater Methods modules are completed before research future career opportunities upon completion. projects are commenced. All study is entirely distance learning based available through a virtual learning platform.

Each taught module is worth 20 credits. The modules that you can choose from include*:

> Advanced Contact Lenses Natalia Hulme > Glaucoma Course > Nutrition and the Eye OSPAP > Refractive Surgery > Retinal and Macular Disorders Destination > Myopia Pre-registration Pharmacist, Boots > Advanced Research Methods > Basic Research Methods > Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics Aston had everything I needed to > Prescribing for Disorders of the Eye get through this intensive course: > General Ocular Therapeutics modern and sophisticated > Investigative Ophthalmic Science facilities, convenient student > Accommodation and Presbyopia. accommodation and, importantly, highly professional and dedicated *Correct at time of printing, subject to change. teaching staff.”

58 Life & Health Sciences Life & Health Sciences 59 MSc Drug Delivery MSc Pharmaceutical MSc Pharmacokinetics

Programme overview Sciences Programme overview Designed to provide you with a comprehensive Pharmacokinetics is a key aspect of drug safety, overview of the drug development process from Programme overview investigating the fate of a drug in the body, how the concept to market, including hands-on experience of You will gain the skills and knowledge required as substance is absorbed, distributed, metabolised and pharmaceutical formulation and drug delivery. a pharmaceutical scientist - the ability to provide eliminated. At Aston you’ll develop your skills and You’ll gain a thorough understanding and awareness effective pharmaceutical formulation strategies for knowledge in the application of pharmacokinetics to of this specialist pharmaceutical sciences area, current and future drug therapies and medicinal the design and optimisation of new therapeutics. With the research methods required to complete a final products. an emphasis on describing mechanistic approaches supervised research project and an overview of the to assessing and predicting the pharmacokinetics of drug discovery process. Core modules* drugs throughout the drug development process, you > Chemotherapy and Selective Toxicity will encounter a broad range of experiences in the Core modules* > Drug Dosage Form and Design application of pharmacokinetics from early discovery > Chemotherapy and Selective Toxicity > Drug Discovery and development, through to market authorisation > Drug Dosage Form and Design > Principles of Product Analysis and Validation and clinical applications. > Drug Discovery > General Pharmacology > Principles of Product Analysis and Validation > Research Methods: Professional Development & Core modules* > Drug Delivery and Targeting Communication Skills > Chemotherapy and Selective Toxicity > Research Methods: Professional Development > Research Project. > Drug Dosage Form and Design and Communication Skills > Drug Discovery > Research Literature Review > Pharmacokinetics > Research Project. Why study Pharmacy MSc programmes > Principles of Product Analysis and Validation at Aston > Research Methods: Professional Development and Communication Skills Why study Pharmacy MSc programmes > Aston Pharmacy School is the first and > Research Project. at Aston only institution to be awarded a prestigious Regius Professorship in Pharmacy by HM > Aston Pharmacy School is the first and the Queen. Why study Pharmacy MSc programmes only institution to be awarded a prestigious > Top 10 in the UK for research quality at Aston Regius Professorship in Pharmacy by HM (Pharmacology & Pharmacy, Complete the Queen. University Guide, 2020). > Aston Pharmacy School is the first and > Top 10 in the UK for research quality > Access to extensive facilities and research only institution to be awarded a prestigious (Pharmacology & Pharmacy, Complete active experts from a wide range of Regius Professorship in Pharmacy by HM University Guide, 2020). specialisms and fields. the Queen. > Access to extensive facilities and research > Top 10 in the UK for research quality active experts from a wide range of Entry requirements (Pharmacology & Pharmacy, Complete specialisms and fields. Minimum lower second class honours degree University Guide, 2020). (2:2) in one of the following subjects or a related > Access to extensive facilities and research Entry requirements field: pharmacy, pharmaceutical science, active experts from a wide range of Minimum lower second class honours degree pharmacology, physiology, physical science, specialisms and fields. (2:2) in one of the following subjects or a related biochemistry, biotechnology, chemistry, chemical field: pharmacy, pharmaceutical science, engineering, genetics, materials science or Entry requirements pharmacology, physiology, physical science, medicine. Minimum lower second class honours degree biochemistry, biotechnology, chemistry, chemical (2:2) in one of the following subjects or a related engineering, genetics, materials science or Career prospects field: pharmacy, pharmaceutical science, medicine. Our suite of Pharmacy MSc programmes will pharmacology, physiology, physical science, prepare you for pursuing a career in various biochemistry, biotechnology, chemistry, chemical Career prospects disciplines in the pharmaceutical industry engineering, genetics, materials science or Our suite of Pharmacy MSc programmes will including: analytical sciences, formulation medicine. prepare you for pursuing a career in various development, project management, regulatory disciplines in the pharmaceutical industry affairs, scientific writing and further studies Career prospects including: analytical sciences, formulation and research, such as a PhD. Recent Our suite of Pharmacy MSc programmes will development, project management, regulatory graduate employers include: AstraZeneca, 3M, prepare you for pursuing a career in various affairs, scientific writing and further studies Ministry of Health (Malaysia), GSK and Aesica disciplines in the pharmaceutical industry and research, such as a PhD. Recent Pharmaceuticals Ltd. including: analytical sciences, formulation graduate employers include: AstraZeneca, 3M, development, project management, regulatory Ministry of Health (Malaysia), GSK and Aesica affairs, scientific writing and further studies Pharmaceuticals Ltd. and research, such as a PhD. Recent graduate employers include: AstraZeneca, 3M, Ministry of Health (Malaysia), GSK and Aesica *As part of an ongoing commitment to ensure our Pharmaceuticals Ltd. programmes are at the forefront of pharmacy education, modules listed are subject to change for 2020. Please visit the website for the most up to date information.

60 Life & Health Sciences Life & Health Sciences 61 MSc Regenerative MSc Stem Cells and MRes Biosciences MSc Biosciences for * Medicines Manufacturing Regenerative Medicine Programme overview Industry This course has been designed specifically for Programme overview Programme overview students who wish to develop their skills as a Programme overview Examine regenerative medicines and other cell Develop an informed and critical appreciation of scientific researcher. You’ll receive extensive training This exciting course has been designed to train and gene therapies that sit under the umbrella of recent scientific developments in stem cell biology, and spend a large proportion of your time conducting the next generation of skilled professionals that advanced therapy medicinal products (ATMPs). On this its clinical and industrial application, as well as a research in laboratories, honing your skills to prepare are required in the fast-growing Biotechnology programme shaped and informed by industry you’ll practical skill set which is highly suitable for those you for a future career as a bioscience researcher. industry in the UK, which has been declared as the gain knowledge of fundamental biological science interested in further research and learning, e.g. PhD strongest in Europe by the BioIndustry Association. as well as the wider commercial considerations for studies. You’ll gain a high level of scientific knowledge The main focus of the programme is an extended You will gain knowledge of the scientific and translating these products from lab bench into clinic, and understanding - from the molecular to the whole research project, which takes up much of the year, engineering principles behind manufacturing of including typical industrial manufacturing processes system level and have the opportunity to study under here you will gain direct experience of working therapeutic molecules, and you will be able to and regulatory considerations. This will create a strong leading experts in the field of stem cell biology. within the collaborative environment of a modern develop an understanding of the applications in foundation for a career in industry or academia either in current state-of-the-art technologies in industry. Core modules biosciences research laboratory alongside research research and development or in business development. active staff from a range of specialist bioscience > Essential Laboratory Skills Core modules fields. In addition to the 120 credit extended Core modules > Laboratory Competency Assessment > Laboratory Competency Training research project, you will also study a series of 15 > Essential Laboratory Skills > Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology > Advanced Laboratory Skills credit modules that will assist in the development > Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology > Applied Biotechnology > Professional Development and Research of essential skills for planning, implementing and > Applied Biotechnology > Stem Cell Biology and Cellular Differentiation Communication Skills communicating research. > Manufacturing Regenerative Medicines: From Lab > Tissue Regeneration > Cell and Molecular Biology Bench to Industry > Ageing and Regenerative Medicine > Applied Biotechnology > Advanced Materials, Devices and Manufacturing > Professional Development and Research Core modules > Cell Factories and their Industrial Applications Processes for Regenerative Medicine Communication Skills > Research Competency Assessment > Purification Strategies of Industrially > Design and Manufacture of Regenerative > Research Project. > Essential Laboratory Skills Manufactured Biomolecules Medicine Products > Professional Development and Research > Manufacturing of Monoclonal Antibodies > Laboratory Competency Assessment Communication Skills > Research project. > Professional Development and Research Why choose this course? > Postgraduate Research Skills Communication Skills > Combination of theoretical and practical > Research Project. > Research Project. modules to provide a comprehensive Why choose this course? curriculum in stem cell biology and > Gain essential knowledge that has regenerative medicine. been highlighted by Biotechnology and > Research in Allied Health Professions and Why choose this course? Why choose this course? Pharmaceutical industry experts as > Gain industry-relevant skills for Studies ranked 5th out of 97 UK higher > Extensive, hands-on research experience fundamental for the graduates they are manufacturing advanced therapies including education institutions (REF 2014). through the completion of an extended seeking to employ in their production cell therapies such as stem cells and CAR-T > Top 20 in the UK for research (Biological dissertation research project. and R&D departments, such as protein cells, along with tissue engineered products. Sciences, Sunday Times Good University > Development of essential postgraduate purification and analysis, design and > Research in Allied Health Professions and Guide, 2019). research skills. regulatory science. Studies ranked 5th out of 97 UK higher > Research in Allied Health Professions and > Develop your transferrable skills, education institutions (REF, 2014). Entry requirements Studies ranked 5th out of 97 UK higher communication skills, and mathematics > Top 20 in the UK for research (Biological Minimum lower second class honours degree education institutions (REF 2014). abilities, including statistics. Sciences, Sunday Times Good University (2:2 with an overall average of 55% or above) in Guide, 2019). a biological, biomedical or biochemistry based Entry requirements Entry requirements subject. Minimum of an upper second-class honours Minimum lower second class honours degree degree (2:1) in a biological, biomedical or (2:2 with an overall average of 55% or above Entry requirements Minimum lower second class honours degree Career prospects biochemistry-based subject. in a biological, biochemistry, biotechnology or (2:2 with an overall average of 55% or above) in Graduates from this course are prepared for a engineering based subject. a biological, biomedical or biochemisty based research-focussed role in industry, including the Career prospects subject. developing clinical field of stem cell therapies Graduates from this course are prepared for Career prospects of regenerative medicine, or academia. Recent research-focused roles in industry or academia, The number of innovative world-leading graduates have gone on to secure roles in as well as further postgraduate PhD-level biotechnology companies in the UK is Career prospects further research, in the form of a PhD or Graduates from this course will be prepared for training. continuously increasing. Graduates from this research assistant, or undertaken careers in the a research focused role in industry, including the course will have the suitable knowledge and commercial and clinical sectors. developing clinical field of stem cell therapies expertise to drive the sector to successful of regenerative medicine, or academia. You outcomes from research-focused roles in can therefore expect to apply for roles in industry, but also in academia. further research, in the form of a PhD or research assistant, or undertake a career in the *Subject to amends and final approval. commercial or clinical sector.

62 Life & Health Sciences Life & Health Sciences 63 Top-up modules in PhD Continuing Professional Development

Biomedical Science Overview Overview Subject areas We offer an extensive range of exciting research We offer a range of flexible professional learning > Audiology Overview opportunities through our suite of PhD programmes. opportunities for those looking to develop > Biomedical Sciences We offer a range of accredited top-up modules As a research student at Aston, you will make a their career and enhance their knowledge and > Neurophysiology and Neurosensory Sciences from our BSc Biomedical Sciences (Hons) degree tangible and original contribution to knowledge in your skills. Our qualifications are recognised by the > Optometry for science graduates who have a non-accredited chosen specialist area and develop your research and professions / industry and are regularly reviewed > Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science honours degree and wish to pursue a career as a professional capacities to the highest level. There are a by relevant professional experts. Many are also > Psychology biomedical scientist. These modules will allow you to range of research projects available to highly motivated accredited by appropriate professional bodies. obtain the academic competences that are required students in fields including: to apply to the Health Care and Professions Council Find out more (HCPC) for registration as a Biomedical Scientist. All Course types Find full details including course listings, entry > Applied Health requirements and fees at www.aston.ac.uk/lhscpd modules are available via on-campus attendance and - varying from skills workshops > Basic and Applied Neurosciences Short Courses most are available by distance learning. to blended learning programmes involving > Molecular Biomedical Research distance learning, these courses are non-credit > Cell and Tissue Biomedical Research Core modules bearing. > Applied Molecular Biology > Ophthalmic Research. > Cell Biology Standalone Modules - credit bearing modules > Cellular Pathology In addition to already established projects we also which may be taken alone or alongside other > Clinical Microbiology welcome you to submit your own relevant research modules. > Haematology & Transfusion Science proposal. > Human Physiology Graduate Diploma - an undergraduate level > Immunology Research environment qualification for those that have already obtained > Medical Biochemistry By studying a postgraduate research qualification at a degree. Aston you will become part of an exciting and vibrant > Microbiology**. - courses research environment, one that will enable you to work Professional Accreditation **Not available via distance learning. delivered by Aston University to prepare you alongside leaders in their field, and engage in various for professional examinations, such as those Professional accreditation events and seminars. You will also have the opportunity required to join the GOC Therapeutics Register All modules are accredited by the Institute of Biomedical to join our dedicated research society which organises for Independent Prescribing. Science (IBMS). a range of social and academic events. Postgraduate Certificate - known as Why choose this course? a PgCert, this is a 60 credit masters level > Modules accredited by the Institute of Entry requirements qualification. Biomedical Science. First or upper second class honours (2:1) > Study on campus or via distance learning. honours degree in a relevant subject, or have an Postgraduate Diploma - known as a PgDip, > Ideal for those who wish to register as a MSc and/or similar award or experience deemed this is a 120 credit masters level qualification. Biomedical Scientist but currently hold a to provide evidence of research potential. Non- non-accredited degree. native English language speakers will need to Master of Science – known as an MSc, this is > Top 25 in the UK for Biological Sciences meet minimum English language requirements. a 180 credit masters level qualification, typically (Sunday Times University Guide, 2019). involving a research project or dissertation. - this substantial Entry requirements Find out more Professional Doctorate A non-accredited undergraduate degree in Full details of all of our postgraduate research course will enable you to be at the forefront of Biomedical Science or a related field such as opportunities including entry requirements, fees and your academic discipline through taught and biology or biochemistry. Before applying to study funding at www.aston.ac.uk/lhsphd research elements. any of these top up modules. Students will need to contact the IBMS to have their current non-accredited degree assessed for eligibility to ‘top-up’ and for confirmation on which modules will be required.

Career prospects Top-up modules offer you the opportunity to enhance your knowledge and skills in order to develop your career. These modules will allow you to obtain the academic competences that are required to apply to the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) for Registration as a Biomedical Scientist.

64 Life & Health Sciences Life & Health Sciences 65 School of For full details of entry requirements for each Languages course please visit the course page on our website: & Social Sciences www.aston.ac.uk/lss

The School of Languages Since then, the School has grown Quality rapidly in student numbers and and Social Sciences is one of The School of Languages and only a handful of academic in its academic coverage and now comprises four academic Social Science has 100% of units in the UK to span both departments: English, Languages its REF submission for Modern the Humanities and Social and Translation Studies, Politics Languages and Linguistics Sciences. In doing so, it and International Relations as well rated at 4* or 3* for research draws on a particularly rich as Sociology and Policy. environment, ranking Aston and distinguished tradition joint 1st in the UK. Our belief is Our distinctive combination that research should always be of teaching, scholarship and of subjects gives a unique practical, relevant and feedback research. perspective on language and into your education. By always society, both in their own context During the 1970s and 1980s, focusing on the latest and most and in relation to each other. the Department of Modern impactful research, we produce fresh and industry informed Languages (French, German, The School of Languages and curricula that prepare you for the Linguistics), as it was then known, Social Sciences is a closely job market. was one of the UK’s pioneers integrated, innovative, multilingual of the study of language in and multidisciplinary School with contemporary society. In 1995, an international outlook. Our reflecting the growing interest degree programmes combine a in and awareness of Europe, it rigorous disciplinary grounding became the School of Languages with a cross-disciplinary, practical and European Studies. In 2004, and issue-focused perspective. we adopted our current title.

66 Languages & Social Sciences T +44 (0)121 204 4910 E [email protected] W www.aston.ac.uk/lss Languages & Social Sciences 67 Double MA in Europe and Joint MA in Multilevel MSc Research in the World Governance and the Social Sciences Studying at Aston University and Sciences Po Lille International Relations (Management) Programme overview With integrated professional training This innovative, 2-year masters programme taught in Studying at Aston University and Sciences Po Rennes Programme Overview Birmingham and in Lille offers you a globally-oriented This postgraduate taught programme brings understanding of European and international affairs. Programme overview together broad-based training in social science Enjoy a multicultural teaching environment, spending You will develop an excellent understanding of and business research methods and advanced your first year at Aston University and second year at multilevel governance and international relations by discipline specific development within the business Sciences Po Lille, France. The second semester of studying at Aston University and at Sciences Po, in and management field of your choice. As such, it Year 2 consists of an internship. Rennes (L’Institut d’Etudes Politiques). will equip you with the critical knowledge and skills Core modules required for effective social scientific research, Core modules while providing you with the opportunity to engage, > Rethinking European integration The modules on offer, and the content of the modules > EU as a Global Actor through advanced research, with business and is subject to change. management practice. Elective modules > Rethinking European integration > International Relations Theory > Governance of the Global Problems Core modules > Leaders and Leadership in a European and Global Philosophy of Research in the Social Sciences Elective modules Research Strategy, Design & Practice Context > Leaders and Leadership in a European and Global > IR and East-Asia Qualitative Research in the Social Sciences Context Quantitative Research in the Social Sciences > Religion and Politics > IR and East-Asia > Media and Political Communication Econometrics 2 > Religion and Politics Effective Management Consultancy > Rogue States > Governance of Global Problems > Governance of Global Problems > Critical Approaches to Security Studies Elective modules > Interest Groups and Lobbying in the multilevel > EU Law and Policy-Making Any TWO 15 Credit Discipline Specific Modules context > Concepts and Strategies for Qualitative Social from the ABS Taught Masters Programmes (subject > Critical Approaches to Security Studies Science to timetabling and availability) > International Political Economy > Post-Migration Europe > EU Law and Policy-Making > Negotiation skills: EuroSim and Model UN Dissertation > Post-Migration Europe > Policy Evaluation All participants will be required to carry out a piece > Negotiation skills: EuroSim and Model UN of academic research in their discipline of choice. > Changing China: People’s Republic in the 21st This research will be supported by a supervisor and Century will culminate in a 15,000 words thesis. Why choose this course? > Post-Migration Europe This programme will challenge you to engage fully with study opportunities in both learning institutions, developing life-long skills and Why Choose this Programme? Why choose this course? open up new professional opportunities. You This programme is ideal for those individuals Offering a unique, international perspective on will also have the opportunity to undertake Janina Lang currently holding an undergraduate and/or Europe’s and Asia’s role in global perspective, a related internship. Modules are relevant postgraduate degree who want to follow a this course also gives students the experience Course and contemporary, exploring today’s political MA Governance and International research-related career in either the academic or of living and studying in two different countries, situations. You will also become an active non-academic sectors. The MSc Research in the Relations with the opportunities for personal growth this member of the Aston Centre for Europe - a Social Sciences is also an ideal ‘stepping stone’ entails. Modules are relevant and contemporary, thriving research hub which organises debates, onto the Aston Business School PhD Programme, exploring today’s political situations. You will also study visits, conferences and seminars on I loved how the teachers treated us on with graduates normally exempted from the PhD become an active member of the Aston Centre current international issues. an eye-to-eye-level and not just as some Programme training requirements in year 1. for Europe - a thriving research hub which students who keep them from their organises debates, study visits, conferences and Career prospects research. Aston offered a lot of hands- Career Prospects seminars on current international issues. Pursue further postgraduate research, or a on experience in politics. I went with The knowledge and skills garnered from studying successful career in the public and private Aston EuroSim to New York, attended the MSc Research in the Social Sciences Career prospects sector. Typical careers include: employment a conference in Berlin, and visited will equip you to pursue a range of careers, Gain the knowledge, analytical and transferable in international organisations (EU, WTO, UN during a field trip all major EU bodies in including managerial, analytical and research skills to pursue further postgraduate research etc), research in policy-oriented domestic or Brussels.” roles within private, public and non-governmental or a successful career in the public and private international think tanks, careers in regional and organisations. This course also provides an sector. Typical careers include: employment local government administration, and further excellent route into further academic study, with in international organisations (EU, WTO, UN postgraduate research at PhD level, journalism. students going on to complete doctoral research etc), research in policy-oriented domestic or before pursuing an academic career. international think tanks, careers in government administration, further postgraduate research at PhD level journalism and international marketing or business.

68 Languages & Social Sciences Languages & Social Sciences 69 MA in International MSc Research in Double Masters in MA Forensic Linguistics

Relations and Global the Social Sciences Governance and Programme overview This programme provides a thorough grounding in

Governance (International Politics) International Politics the broad spectrum of forensic linguistics. We see Studying at Aston University and Otto-Friedrich- the discipline as including the study of the language Programme overview Programme Overview Universität, Bamberg of the law, providing investigative assistance and This cutting-edge Masters programme, delivered This postgraduate taught programme brings then possibly evidence to the Courts, and also over one full academic year, will broaden your together broad-based training in social science Programme overview incorporating knowledge of the sister discipline of global perspectives on issues of governance and research methods and advanced discipline specific You will develop a deep understanding of issues of forensic speech science. Students will therefore learn contemporary international relations. You can choose development within the field of international politics. contemporary research in the field of governance about legal and forensic contexts, about linguistic from a wide range of elective modules and pathways As such, it will equip you with the critical knowledge and international politics, whilst benefitting from the insights and methods of analysis and about how the focusing on Europe, Asia or the global perspective. and skills required for effective social scientific combined expertise of teaching staff in two institutions: two can be brought together in the application of Develop wide-ranging insights into political behaviour research, while providing you with the opportunity to first year at Aston University, second year at Bamberg language description to these contexts. Strong links and skills in the critical analysis of contemporary engage, through advanced research, with the field of University. Tailor the programme to your needs and with police and other end users and the fact that the political issues. This programme is ideally suited to international politics. choose from a range of pathways focusing on Europe, teaching staff includes practitioner forensic linguists, internationally oriented careers in the public or private Asia or global perspectives. give you unique access to real world data for student sector. Core modules learning and research work. > Philosophy of Research in the Social Sciences Core modules Core modules > Research Strategy, Design and Practice > International Relations Theory Core modules > International Relations Theory > Qualitative Research in the Social Sciences > Governance of Global Problems > Linguistics in legal contexts > Governance of Global Problems > Quantitative Research in the Social Sciences > Analysing written and spoken discourse > International Relations Theory Elective modules > Research methods for forensic linguistics > Rethinking European integration Elective modules > EU as a Global Actor > Language as evidence > Leaders and Leadership in a European and Global > Rethinking European integration > Forensic speech science Context > Leaders and Leadership in a European and Elective modules > Practical applications in forensic linguistics > Any TWO 15 Credit Discipline Specific Modules > IR and East-Asia Global > Dissertation > IR and East-Asia from our Languages and Social Sciences > Religion and Politics > Religion and Politics postgraduate level modules in international politics > EU as a Global Actor > Media and Political Communication > EU as a Global Actor (subject to timetabling and availability) Why choose this course? > Media and Political Communication > Rogue States Choose this course if you are interested in how > Rogue States Dissertation > Interest Groups and Lobbying in the multilevel context the analysis of language can assist in the delivery > Interest Groups and Lobbying in the multilevel All participants will be required to carry out a piece of > Critical Approaches to Security Studies of justice. context academic research in their discipline of choice. This > International Political Economy > EU Law and Policy-Making Aston University in Birmingham has been > Critical Approaches to Security Studies research will be supported by a supervisor and will > Post-Migration Europe awarded a £5.5 million grant by Research > International Political Economy culminate in a 15,000 words thesis. > Negotiation skills: EuroSim and Model UN England to create a world-leading centre of > Concepts and Strategies for Social Data Analysis > Policy Evaluation excellence in forensic linguistics research and > Post-Migration Europe > Changing China: People’s Republic in the 21st Century practice. Aston University will itself be investing > Negotiation skills: EuroSim and Model UN Why Choose this Programme? £500,000 in the new Institute. The new Aston > Policy Evaluation This programme is ideal for those individuals Institute for Forensic Linguistics, which is being > Changing China: People’s Republic in the 21st currently holding an undergraduate and/or backed with government investment through postgraduate degree who want to follow a Century Affairs in Europe Why choose this course? the modern industrial strategy, will include the research-related career in either the academic or Offering a unique, international perspective on the creation of a pioneering forensic linguistics non-academic sectors. The MSc Research in the concept of governance, this course also gives resource, named the Forensic Linguistic Social Sciences is also an ideal ‘stepping stone’ students the experience of living and studying in Databank. This databank will be a global Why choose this course? onto the Aston School of Languages and Social two different countries, with the opportunities for precedent, providing a permanent, controlled Enjoy active membership of the Aston Centre Sciences PhD Programme, with graduates personal growth this entails. Modules are relevant access repository for malicious communication for Europe, -a thriving research hub which normally exempted from the PhD Programme and contemporary, exploring today’s political data, investigative interview data and forensic organises debates, study visits, conferences and training requirements in year 1. situations. You will also become an active member evidence validation data for both speech and seminars on current international issues - and of the Aston Centre for Europe - a thriving research text. Research projects use of this data will have the opportunity to take part in a week long Career Prospects hub - and have the opportunity to take part in a validate methods for forensic analysis, further the study trip to visit the EU institutions and related The knowledge and skills garnered from studying week-long study trip to visit the EU institutions and effectiveness of interviewing techniques used by organisation in Brussels. the MSc Research in the Social Sciences will related organisations in Brussels. British police, and help tackle internet crime and equip you to pursue a range of careers, including abuse on behalf of law enforcement beneficiaries Career prospects managerial, analytical and research roles Career prospects like the National Crime Agency. Gain the skills to pursue further postgraduate within private, public and non-governmental Gain the knowledge, analytical and transferable skills to pursue further postgraduate research research or a successful career in the public and organisations. This course also provides an Career prospects private sectors. Careers pursued by our students excellent route into further academic study, with or a successful career in the public and private While there is no well-trodden professional route include: international organisations (EU, WTO, students going on to complete doctoral research sector. The careers pursued by our students vary for forensic linguists, past students have moved UN etc.), research in domestic or international before pursuing an academic career. greatly, but typical careers include: employment on to jobs with the police and security services, think tanks, careers in government, journalism, in international organisations (EU, WTO, UN etc), and into careers in research. The course is also international marketing or business. research in policy-oriented domestic or international an excellent foundation for studies at PhD level. think tanks, careers in government administration, further postgraduate research at PhD level, journalism and international marketing or business. 70 Languages & Social Sciences Languages & Social Sciences 71 MA in Teaching English MA in TESOL and MA in Translating PhD

to Speakers of Other Translation Studies for Business and Programme overview Our PhD programme is designed to train Doctoral Languages (TESOL) Programme overview International Institutions students who aspire to become future academics or You will acquire additional expertise in translation professional industry researchers. Programme overview theory and skills to pursue a career in TESOL. The Programme overview Designed for those who would like to obtain a course is designed for those who have little or no This innovative programme - offering specialist Research strengths substantial postgraduate qualification in the field of teaching experience, and builds on our extensive coaching in translation from Arabic, Chinese, Our research strengths are embedded in our TESOL, you will have the opportunity for in-depth experience and highly successful distance learning Portuguese, French, Spanish or German - prepares academic departments: investigations into language pedagogy and theory of Masters programmes in TESOL. you for a professional career in the global language > English > Languages and Translation Studies language use. Suitable for experienced teachers as Core modules industry and for ongoing research. You will learn well as those with little classroom experience, this about the business of translation from professionals > Politics and International Relations > Theory and Practice of English Language Teaching programme helps you make informed decisions on working in the industry and gain practical, hands-on, > Sociology & Policy > The Translation Industry: Theoretical and Practical different aspects of TESOL. experience through our placement module, leaving You are strongly recommended to explore these Perspectives I before applying. > Translation Technology I: CAT Tools and Localisation you ready for the transition from freelance translator Core modules to company director. > Theory and Practice of English Language > Multilingual Specialised Translation Programme content (including any research methods courses) Teaching Elective modules Core modules > Language Awareness > The Translation Industry: Theoretical and Practical During year one of the programme (or years one and > Language and Literature in Education two for part time students) research students must > Research Methods > Language Contact and Multilingualism Perspectives > Translation Technology I: CAT Tools and complete our ESRC-accredited research methods > English Teaching Practice * (core if less than > English Teaching Practice Localisation training modules and work towards submission of the 2 years’ teaching experience; option for more > Teaching Young Learners > Multilingual Specialised Translation Qualifying Report examination. The Qualifying Report is experienced teachers) > Technology in Teaching and Learning > Business and Enterprise Skills for Translators between 6,000 and 10,000 words and is a summary > The Translation Industry: Theoretical and Practical Elective modules > Dissertation on the progress of a student’s research. Assessment Perspectives II > Analysing Discourse > Practical translation modules is conducted through a viva voce examination whose > Translation Technology II: Machine Translation, > Teaching Young Learners purpose is not only to ascertain a student’s academic Post-editing, Audiovisual Translation Practical translation modules: > Course and Materials Design potential but also to provide independent advice on a > Business and Enterprise Skills for Translators > Specialised Translation Practice: French – English > Language Contact and Multilingualism > Translating for International Institutions > Specialised Translation Practice: German - English student’s research. Students who are successful in the > Language and Literature in Education > Specialised Translation: French/German/Spanish > Specialised Translation Practice: Spanish - English Qualifying Report examination then follow the full PhD > Research Topics in TESOL <> English > Translation for Business: Arabic - English programme route through to submission of the final > Technology in Teaching and Learning > Translation for Business: Arabic/Chinese/ > Translation for Business: Chinese - English thesis. PhD students have three years full time or six > Communicating across Cultures Portuguese <> English > Translation for Business: Portuguese - English years part time from their research start date in which to (Please note that not all options will be offered every submit the thesis. year) Professional accreditation Elective modules Aston is a corporate member of the Institute of > Translating for International Institutions Research environment Professional accreditation Translation and Interpreting (ITI). > Translation Work Placement We have an exciting and vibrant research environment Credits may be awarded if you have the DELTA > Translation Technology II: Machine Translation, that enables you to engage in various research events diploma. Post-editing, Audiovisual Translation and seminars. There is also a dedicated research society which organises social and academic events. Why choose this course? Demand for translators and interpreters is Professional accreditation Why choose this course? increasing rapidly, as organisations become Aston University is a corporate member of the The programme modules represent a balance more globalised. You will learn the practical Institute of Translation and Interpreting (ITI) Entry requirements between pedagogy and linguistic theories, and professional skills of translation and gain > A Masters degree or an equivalent with an emphasis on linking theory with real-world experience through our placement qualification. A minimum of an overall merit practical classroom application. Teaching module. Practising tranlsators and industry Why choose this course? grade (or equivalent), with merit in the Demand for translators and interpreters is practice provides an introduction to all the representatives, and you will have the opportunity dissertation is normally required. increasing rapidly, as organisations become more practical issues involved in TESOL, while also to work towards Chartered Institute of Linguists’ > IELTS: 6.5 (minimum 6.5 in writing and globalised. Gain real-world experience through offering opportunities to experiment with new and TRADOS certification. Demand for teachers reading and minimum 6.0 in speaking and our placement module and benefit from guest approaches and to develop your teaching skills of English as a foreign language is also growing listening) lectures by practising translators and industry and professional expertise. The elective modules every day, as English becomes more used > TOEFL iBT: 93 (minimum 26 in writing, 22 in representatives. You may also work towards and the dissertation enable you to specialise in worldwide. By doing this Masters, you will obtain speaking, 19 in listening, 18 in reading) Chartered Institute of Linguists’ and TRADOS particular areas of interest. a substantial postgraduate qualification in the > Pearson Academic: 63 (minimum 63 in writing certification, equipping you to enter the dynamic field of TESOL. and speaking, and 57 in reading and listening) international translation market. Career prospects > Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English The MA TESOL is a substantial qualification Career prospects (CPE): Grade B which will enhance career options in the global Graduates have gone on to work as translators, Career prospects > Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English contexts of English language teaching, and technical editors and translation project Recent destinations for our graduates include (CAE): Grade A graduates of the programme are employed as managers for translation companies and software in-house or freelance translation, mainly working teachers in a wide range of educational settings, developers, both in the United Kingdom and for business, institutions and public service. Our both in the UK and internationally. abroad. Graduates of the TESOL programmes graduates also work as project managers for also work as teachers all over the world. translation agencies, technical editors and software developers, both in the UK and abroad.

72 Languages & Social Sciences Languages & Social Sciences 73 HOW TO APPLY Applying for a Masters is easy, just follow our five step guide

CHOOSE YOUR MASTERS 1 By the time you have got to this page, chances are you are pretty sure which course is right for you. If not, flick back through the brochure or browse our website www.aston.ac.uk for some inspiration. Don’t forget, our Admissions Team are on hand to answer any questions you might have and advise you on which course is most suitable for you. 2 COMPLETE YOUR APPLICATION After checking that you meet our entry requirements, complete the simple online application form which can be found from your chosen course page. 3 WE ASSESS YOUR APPLICATION We’ll take a look over your application to make sure that you HERE IS are suitable for the course. Don’t worry, if we have any further questions, we will send you an email. THE ASTON WE’LL BE IN TOUCH MASTERS 4 We’ll let you know whether your application has been successful. If we offer you a place, you will receive either a conditional or unconditional offer.

ACCEPT YOUR PLACE 5 You need to let us know that you are accepting your offer. All you need to do is follow the link in your offer email to send us your acceptance documents and pay your deposit as outlined in your offer email.

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GET IN TOUCH CHECK YOUR EMAILS SEE FOR YOURSELF If you need any advice or All contact will be made over We hold regular events to have a question about the email, so make sure that the give you a chance to visit application process, contact email address you use on campus as part of an open the Admissions Team by your application in the one event, meet our staff at fairs emailing [email protected] or that you use and check on a around the world, or through Content of this Prospectus phone +44 (0)121 204 4910. regular basis webinars and webchats The information contained in this Prospectus is relevant for applications to postgraduate programmes in the academic session September 2020 - June 2021. Whilst information in this prospectus is correct at the time of going to press (September 2019), Aston University does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness and information in this Prospectus may differ from information that is issued to applicants as part of an offer.

74 75 Aston University @astonuniversity If you require Birmingham /astonuniversity this document B4 7ET, UK in alternative @astonuniversity +44 (0)121 204 4910 formats, please www.aston.ac.uk astonuniversity contact us.