POSTGRADUATE/PROFESSIONAL/PART-TIME

PROSPECTUS SUPPLEMENT 2009

 01
Postgraduate/Professional/Part-time Prospectus Supplement 2009
Full and part-time courses including further education

Welcome
Birmingham City University
Your time as a student will almost certainly prove one of the
most exciting and challenging times of your life, so it’s important
you choose the university that’s right for you.

If you’re looking for a course that will enhance
your employability and develop your skills,
you’ve come to the right place. At Birmingham
City University our postgraduate, professional
and part-time courses have been designed to
make the most of the skills and experience
you have and help you achieve your goals
and ambitions.
As a modern university, we make sure
that our courses meet the needs and
requirements, not only of our students, but
also of industry so that when you qualify, you
are up to date with processes and procedures.
To enhance our offerings, we are constantly
updating and reviewing our courses, and to
reflect the changes we have made, we have
developed this supplementary prospectus
to fit in with the existing 2008 postgraduate,
professional and part-time one.
This supplement highlights courses that
have changed their content or their name, and
ones that are no longer running. We’ve also
including updated information on fees and
funding, but to save you reading through the
same information twice, we haven’t included
all information again, so you should use this
supplement in conjunction with the 2008
prospectus enclosed to make sure that you
find the information you are looking for.
To reflect the changes in our course provision
and position, we have changed the names of
our campuses.
City North Campus is the new name for
our main campus at Perry Barr, Edgbaston
Campus is the new name for the Health
campus, Millennium Point and Conservatoire
are now part of City Centre Campus.
The new names for our faculties are:
Faculty of Performance, Media and English;
Birmingham City Business School; Faculty
of Technology, Innovation and Development;
Faculty of Health; Birmingham Institute of Art
and Design; and Faculty of Education, Law
and Social Sciences.
If you would like any further information, you
will see contact information on the page of
your course. You can contact our course help
and advice centre, Choices, on 0121 331 5595
or by emailing choices@bcu.ac.uk,
or visit the website www.bcu.ac.uk
 Ways to find out more
02

This prospectus aims to give you the information you need to

help you choose a course and get a feel for the Birmingham City
University student experience. There are ways of finding out more
and you will probably want to come and visit our campuses and
speak to staff, students and advisers.

Advice, guidance and further information Opportunities to visit

The University’s course information and Open Days – open to all*
guidance centre, Choices, is here to help you • Friday 19 June 2009
find the best course for your career aspirations • Saturday 20 June 2009
and interests and give advice on: • Friday 2 October 2009
• Entry qualifications • Saturday 3 October 2009
• Application advice, including personal
statements Open days – for Clearing applicants*
• Access routes for mature students • Saturday 15 August 2009
• Accommodation • Wednesday 19 August 2009
• Childcare
• Welfare services *Please note: some dates are provisional at the
time of going to press and may be subject to change.
• Financial support
There are other opportunities to visit us.
Choices is based at City North Campus within
These include individual campus tours and
the Students’ Union building. Drop in for advice
subject-specific applicant visit days. You
or book an appointment for a more detailed
can find more details on all our open days
consultation.
at www.bcu.uk/opendays, or via our
Choices office.
T: 0121 331 5595
E: choices@bcu.ac.uk
W: www.bcu.ac.uk/choices

www.bcu.ac.uk/choices
Contents

03
Section 1 – Key information
Accommodation 07
Support – Your welfare first 08
(Funding, loans, grants, bursaries)
International – Students from overseas 09
(Tuition fees, bursaries, pre-sessional course costs)

Section 2 – Indexes
Course index (A-Z by subject area) 10

Section 3 – Courses
Acting and Theatre 16
Art, Design and Visual Communication 20
Business and Management 27
Computing, IT & Software Engineering 37
Criminology 55
Education and Teacher Training 57
Engineering 59
Environment 69
Fashion 71
Health and Social Care 73
Logistics 76
Media, Multimedia and New Media 79
Music 83
Radiography 86
Social Sciences 87

All courses described as being delivered by Birmingham City University include those provided or delivered by
the University and by companies within the Birmingham City University group of companies including UCE
Enterprise Ltd, Technology Innovation Centre and Technology Innovation Centre Commercial Ltd.
04

Birmingham City University

Ten great reasons to choose us
As you work your way through this prospectus you will discover
the story of Birmingham City University and the many great things
that will combine to give you an outstanding student experience.
We are a diverse, dynamic and supportive university with a
welcoming approach to all our students. Read on for an overview
of what makes Birmingham City University so special...

www.bcu.ac.uk

1. Enhanced career prospects
Becoming a postgraduate student will enable
you to pursue your interests and develop your
skills in a specialised area. You will achieve an
increased awareness of the latest trends in a
particular discipline and enhance your career
prospects considerably.
We offer postgraduate study in two main
categories: taught courses and research.
Taught courses normally involve formal
lectures and/or seminar programmes and
written examinations. Research is done through
independent exploration, analysis and the
preparation of a thesis under the supervision
of a specialist lecturer in your chosen subject.
2. Exciting city
The city of Birmingham is a fantastic place to
live and learn, with around 60,000 students
making it their ‘home from home’. Following its
dramatic transformation over recent years, it’s a
vibrant and dynamic city with social and cultural
activities to suit every taste and budget. Right at
the heart of the country, ‘the second city’ has an
unparalleled infrastructure. The strong business
and manufacturing economy will allow you
access to expertise and employment across
a vast range of sectors.
3. Fantastic campuses
We have outstanding facilities available across
our eight teaching sites, all within easy reach
of the city centre. On most of our campuses
you’ll also find bars, eateries, retail outlets and
nearby sports and recreational facilities. And the
University has ongoing plans to invest significant
sums in campus-based social facilities.
4. Significant investment
The University is committed to substantial
expansion, with £250m worth of investment in
new and improved facilities already underway. This
includes the creation of a major new city centre
campus in Birmingham’s Eastside district, near
Millennium Point, which will become the home
of the University’s creative arts programmes.
5. Outstanding resources and facilities
Ongoing investment in our teaching and learning
provision and ambitious plans for future
developments mean cutting-edge equipment,
resources and facilities second to none. Our
innovative approach to teaching and learning
is demonstrated with our online ‘virtual
learning environment’, clinical skills centres
and simulated learning facilities supporting
practice based learning.
6. Superb access to information
You can be assured of easy and open access to
an abundance of library and IT facilities, directly
supporting your learning requirements. Over
£3 million has recently been ploughed into our
libraries, subject-specific librarians help you
with your exact needs and you will also have
access to our digital library. Wireless networks
in most communal areas will get you online and
you even get free web access from your bedroom
if you decide to live in our halls.
Libraries and IT facilities are open during
evenings and weekends to fit around your
busy schedules.
7. Professionally relevant and
respected courses
Our strong links with industry and the professions
and established arrangements with professional
bodies ensure courses are current, relevant
and recognised by the professions. With many
courses offering work placement opportunities,
valuable professional experience gives you the
outstanding career prospects.
05
8. Established yet responsive
Although a relatively new university, our
long standing reputation for excellence in
professionally-relevant higher education dates
back to 1843 with the establishment of the first
Polytechnic Institute in Birmingham.
Our strong sense of history, combined with
our high ambitions for the future, reflects the
University’s unstinting commitment to providing
the very best student experience possible.
9. In-touch teaching
Our staff expertise is one of our most valuable
resources, with the majority still either practising
in their related fields or providing consultancy
to professional organisations. This ensures they
remain fully in touch with industry developments
and can continue to deliver relevant study
programmes. Our staff includes numerous
leading figures in fields from Art to Criminology
and Education to English, making this a truly
exciting and inspiring place to learn.
10. Research
Research, which is focused around five University-
funded Centres of Research Excellence, is
professionally relevant. Many research projects
are multi-disciplinary, drawing on expertise
from members of staff across the University
and enhance our excellent links with industry,
commerce and the professions.
 06
Section One Key Information

Section One - Key Information

Experience
The University and city
Birmingham City University is an exciting and vibrant place to
learn. With a heritage stretching back to the mid 19th Century,
we’re well-established and proud of our strong links with industry
and the professions. And with an ongoing multi-million pound
investment programme enhancing already outstanding facilities,
the University’s achievements continue to go from strength
to strength. Add to that our great location in the lively city of
Birmingham and you have a university that offers you the very
best of student experiences.

www.bcu.ac.uk
 07
Section One Key Information
Accommodation
Home from home
You will find full information about the range of accommodation offered
at Birmingham City University in the full prospectus. In addition to this,
accommodation is also available in Opal 1.

No. of rooms Bathroom Kitchen Furniture Facilities Price Opal 1 is a privately owned facility with 200
rooms for Birmingham City University students.
200 Ensuite Shared Either a Professionally- £94.52 Accommodation Services have a Liaison Officer
between 4-6 standard single staffed pool per week at the residence to ensure excellent standards of
people bed or a larger and leisure pastoral care. There is also a Student Assistant
bed (in deluxe centre, laundry, £3969.84 who will be able to offer support and assistance
rooms) with security office, annual fee if necessary. University Security Service liaises
under bed common closely with the management of Opal 1 and will
storage, study room with be on hand to assist in dealing with any serious
desk, study widescreen out of hours occurrences.
chair, desk satellite TV,
lamp, wardrobe, accommodation
curtains, office, limited
storage heater, car parking.
bookshelves.
 08
Section One Key Information
Support
Your welfare first
Making the transition to University
can be a big step at any age and
we have a number of services to
help support your welfare during
your time with us. We can also
provide you with advice on many
topics from childcare to careers.
Financial information PGCE students who will teach in
These are amendments to the fees and costs in primary schools
the 2008 prospectus. Students on this course will be eligible to
receive a TDAS Bursary of £6,000. If you are
PGCE students studying/intend to study on a PGCE course
Course fees will be a maximum of £3,175. You part-time please contact Student Finance.
will be eligible to take out a student fee loan to
cover these, as well as a student maintenance
loan (subject to previous study rules). You will
also be eligible for a Maintenance Grant of up
to £2,835. £1,260 is guaranteed, the remaining
£1,575 will be means-tested in the same way
as for undergraduate students.
PGCE students who will teach in
secondary schools
Additionally these students are eligible to
receive a TDAS bursary of £9,000 for trainees
in Mathematics, Science or English.
International

09
Students from Overseas

Section One Key Information

These are amendments to the tuition fees and also some entry
requirements. For additional information please check the 2008
prospectus or visit www.bcu.ac.uk/students/international

Tuition Fees The tuition fee includes all teaching and Course You have You need Tuition
examination costs, and membership of the IELTS IELTS Fees
BA (Hons) Acting £13,500
Graduate Diploma in Acting £13,500 Union of Students. 5 week pre-sessional 5.5 6.0 £870*
MA (Hons) Voice £13,500 6.0 6.5 £870*
English Language Requirements 6.5 7.0 £870*
BA (Hons) Community
All tuition, examinations and subject materials 10 week pre-sessional 5.0 6.0 £1740
and Applied Theatre £12,000
will be in English. Here are some more detailed
BA (Hons) Community 5.5 6.5 £1740*
qualification requirements for the IELTS and
and Applied Dance Theatre £12,000 6.0 7.0 £1740*
TOEFL courses.
PG Dip / MA (Hons) Musical Theatre £12,000 FCEAP - Full year 4.5 6.0 £6200
BA (Hons) Stage Management £12,000 Test FCEAP - 2nd semester 5.0 6.0 £3100
Birmingham Conservatoire UG & PG £12,500 International English Language
Master of Business Administration (MBA) £10,600 Testing Service (IELTS) *Includes tuition, accommodation, course material and
social activities.
Business School UG £8,800 Score/grade
Overall band of 6.0 or above for most courses.
Business School PG £9,400
• 6.5 for undergraduate Business top ups and
Birmingham Institute Business postgraduate courses
of Art and Design UG £8,800 • 7.0 for LLM Corporate and Business Law,
Birmingham Institute LLM International Human Rights and MA
of Art and Design PG £9,400 English Linguistics
Faculty of Education, Law,
Social Sciences UG £8,800 Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
Faculty of Education, Law, Score/grade
Social Sciences PG £9,400 • Paper based 550, computer based 213 for
most courses.
Faculty of Technology, Innovation
• Paper based 575, computer based 232 for
and Development UG £8,800
postgraduate Business courses.
Faculty of Technology, Innovation • Paper based 600, computer based 250
and Development PG £10,600 for LLM Corporate and Business Law, LLM
Faculty of Health UG £8,800 International Human Rights and MA
Faculty of Health PG £9,400 English Linguistics.
BTEC Foundation Diploma
in Art and Design £6,200 English Language Courses
BTEC National Diplomas Pre-sessional English Language courses
These amendments are to the cost of the
(Design Crafts, Fashion and Clothing,
pre-sessional English Language courses run
Three Dimensional Design) £6,200
at Birmingham City University to enable you
Foundation Certificate English to develop your English skills if you have
for Academic Purposes £6,200 narrowly missed the minimum English
Language requirements.
 10
Section Two Indexes

Section Two - Indexes

Course Index.
New.Amended.Deleted.
Subjects and A-Z

www.bcu.ac.uk
Course index
(A-Z by subject area)

11
Section Two Indexes: Subjects
Accountancy and Finance Business and Management
All courses in this section are the same as in the 2008 prospectus; This section includes amendments to existing courses as well as
please see pages 16 – 19. new courses.

Acting and Theatre Amended courses

Some courses in this section have been amended Innovation and Entrepreneurship CPS 27
Lean Operations CPS 28
Amended courses Management of Innovation and Change CPS 29
Acting PgDip/MA 16 Operations Management PgCert/PgDip/MSc 30
Physical Theatre PgDip 18 Project Management PgCert/PgDip/MSc 31
Professional Voice Practice PgDip/MA 19
New courses
Architecture International Human Resource Management PgCert/PgDip/MSc 32
All courses in this section are the same as in the 2008 prospectus; Management Information Systems CPS 33
please see pages 22 – 28. MBA (2 years part-time) 34
Project Management CPS 35
Quality Management PgCert/PgDip/MSc 36
Art, Design and Visual Communication
This section includes amendments to existing courses as well as
Computing, IT and Software Engineering
new courses.
This section includes amendments to existing courses as well as
new courses and highlights courses that have been discontinued.
Amended courses
Design Management PgCert/PgDip/MA 20
Amended courses
Automotive Calibration and Control PgCert/PgDip/MSc 37
New courses
Computer Networks and Security BSc 38
Arts and Project Management PgCert/PgDip/MA 21
Computing and Electronics BSc 39
Creative Self-development: 22
Data Communications CPS 40
Colour and Painting 22
Data Networks and Security PgCert/PgDip/MSc 41
Creative Printmaking and Watercolour 22
Information and Communication Technology BSc 42
Creative Craft Ceramics 22
Software Design and Networks BSc 43
Creative Techniques Figure Drawing and Painting 22
Software Development and Security PgCert/PgDip/MA 45
Traditional Photography 22
Digital Photography 22
New courses
Design and Visualisation PgCert/PgDip/MA 23
Computer Networks for Business BSc 46
Photography: Documentary Practice PgCert/PgDip/MA 24
Developing Systems Using Microsoft.net CPS 47
Queer Studies in Arts and Culture PgCert/PgDip/MA 25
Developing Systems Using Open Source CPS 48
Web Presence PgCert/PgDip/MA 26
e-Technologies CPS 49
Game Technologies CPS 50
Banking
All courses in this section are the same as in the 2008 prospectus; Network Administration CPS 51
please see pages 46 – 47.
 Course index
(A-Z by subject area)
12
Section Two Indexes: Subjects

Networking Technologies CPS 52 Mechanical Engineering BEng 65

Network Administration DPS 53 Mechanical Engineering PgCert/PgDip/MSc 66
Networking Technologies DPS 54 Product Lifecycle Management CPS 67
Telecommunications and Networks BEng 68
Deleted courses
Automotive Calibration and Control Research PgCert/PgDip/MSc Deleted courses
Data Networks and Security Research PgCert/PgDip/MSc Automotive Engineering Research PgDip/MSc
Software Development and Security Research PgCert/PgDip/MA Mechanical Engineering Research PgDip/MSc

Criminal Justice – now Criminology English

There have been several changes to course titles in Criminal Justice. Courses are running as per the 2008 prospectus, see pages 129 – 136,
with the exception of:
Amended courses
Criminal Justice/Criminal Justice and Criminology/Criminal Deleted course
Justice and Policing/Criminal Justice with Psychology English Literary Studies PgCert/PgDip/MA
are now:
Criminology/Criminology and Policing/Criminology and Security 55 Environment
Studies/Criminology and Sociology Courses are running as per the 2008 prospectus, see pages 137 – 140,
with the following exception:
Deleted courses
Criminal Justice Policy and Practice Amended course
Food Processing Systems CPS 69
Integrated Environmental Management 70
Education and Teacher Training
There are a couple of new courses in addition to the courses in the
Fashion
current prospectus.
There are a couple of new fashion courses in addition to the courses
in the 2008 prospectus on pages 141 – 145
New courses
Education MA 57 New Courses
Primary Education PGCE 58 Fashion Promotion PgCert/PgDip/MA 71
Fashion Styling PgCert/PgDip/MA 72
Engineering
This section includes amendments to existing courses and highlights Health and Social Care
Most courses are running as per the 2008 prospectus, see pages 146
courses that have been discontinued.
– 151 with the following exceptions:

Amended courses New courses

Aerospace Product Development BEng 59 Childcare PQ 73
Automotive Engineering BEng 60 Mental Health PgCert/PgDip/MA 74
Automotive Engineering PgCert/PgDip/MSc 61
Electronic Engineering BEng 62 Deleted courses
Management of Manufacturing Systems BEng 63 Health Studies/Health Studies (Health Development)/Health Studies
Manufacturing Systems CPS 64 (Health Policy and Management)
Course index
(A-Z by subject area)

13
Section Two Indexes: Subjects
Horology Media, Multimedia and New Media
All courses in this section are the same as in the 2008 prospectus; Most courses are running as per the 2008 prospectus, see pages
please see page 153. 189 – 197 with the following exceptions:

Amended courses
Housing Multimedia Design and Production CPS 79
All courses in this section are the same as in the 2008 prospectus; Sound Engineering and Production CPS 80
please see pages 154 – 158.
New courses
Digital Video Production CPS 81
Jewellery Media Production Management CPS 82
All courses in this section are the same as in the 2008 prospectus;
please see pages 159 – 161. Music
The following courses have been amended or discontinued. You will
find other Music courses in the 2008 prospectus on pages 199 – 206.
Landscape Architecture
All courses in this section are the same as in the 2008 prospectus; Amended courses
please see pages 162 – 164. Jazz Grad Dip 83
Music Mmus 84

Law New courses

Most courses are running as per the 2008 prospectus, see pages 165 Music (Specialist Performance) 85
– 174 with the following exceptions:
Deleted courses
Deleted courses: Musical Theatre (joint with BSA)
Legal Advice and Representation DPS
Nursing, Midwifery and ODP
Logistics All courses in this section are the same as in the 2008 prospectus;
This section includes amendments to existing courses as well as new please see pages 207 – 219.
courses and highlights courses that have been discontinued.

Amended courses Planning

Electronic Commerce PgCert/PgDip/MSc 76 All courses in this section are the same as in the 2008 prospectus;
Logistics PgCert/PgDip/MSc 77 please see pages 220 – 222.
Supply Chain Management PgCert/PgDip/MSc 78

Deleted courses Property and Construction Management

Electronic Commerce Research PgDip/MSc All courses in this section are the same as in the 2008 prospectus;
Logistics Research PgDip/MSc please see pages 223 – 238.
Supply Chain Management Research PgCert/PgDip/MSc

Marketing and PR Quality Assurance

All courses in this section are the same as in the 2008 prospectus; All courses in this section are the same as in the 2008 prospectus;
please see pages 184-188. please see page 239.
 Course index
(A-Z by subject area)
14
Section Two Indexes: Subjects

Radiography
All courses in this section are the same as in the 2008 prospectus;
please see pages 240 – 241, with the exception of:

Amended courses
Radiography PgCert/PgDip/MSc 86
– addition of Computed Tomography pathway

Social Sciences
Most courses in this section are the same as in the 2008 prospectus;
see pages 242 – 244, with the exception of:

New courses
Psychology BSc 87

Deleted courses
Sociology with Cultural Studies BA pathway has been discontinued
 15
Section Three Courses
Section Three - Course Information

Courses
Innovative learning
We have developed a great range of professionally relevant
courses to ensure you have the best chance of employment
success. Numerous courses on offer also give you exemptions
from professional qualifications. Many of our lecturers remain
as practitioners, building on their years of professional
experience, ensuring they are in touch with the demands
of the ‘real world’.

www.bcu.ac.uk
 Acting*
16
PgDip/MA
FULL-TIME 1 YEAR
BIRMINGHAM SCHOOL OF ACTING | MILLENNIUM POINT
Section Three Courses Acting and Theatre
Getting started - what will I need?
• An initial qualification at Honours level
usually in a complementary subject
i.e. Drama, Theatre Studies, English
Literature, etc.
• Prior experience that would facilitate the
successful completion of the course and
demonstrate at special interview your ability
to progress at the required rate.
Auditions are through a two stage process:
Initial Audition – you must prepare and
memorise two contrasting speeches from
different plays, no more than two minutes
long. One of which must have been written
in the last 20 years.
Recall Audition – lasts for a whole day
and consists of:
• An acting workshop, voice and
movement assessments
• The presentation of two speeches (one
from the Elizabethan/Jacobean period)
• A song
• A reading
Tell me more...
This is a course designed for those who wish
to pursue careers as professional actors.
During the course the focus is on learning
through performance, with the balance
progressing from technical skills to
performance. In the final term the emphasis
is on public live performance, radio and screen
skills and career management. The course has
professional accreditation from the National
Council for Drama Training (NCDT).
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
> Tariff score N/A
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
What will I study?
The course is an extremely intensive training
process that requires the highest level of
commitment. It is expected that you will work
and progress at a very high rate to ensure that
every opportunity is explored and exploited
to the fullest. It demands an enormous
amount of time, commitment and energy,
challenging you intellectually, physically and
emotionally. Our typical working day is long
(8:45am-6:00pm) and you will be expected to
complete preparation and research, as well
as learn lines between classes – with some
evenings and weekends used for rehearsals
and performance.
Although the academic year is longer at 36
weeks and the full days are parallel to the BA
(Honours), trying to achieve a similar outcome
in a shorter time adds to the pressure on you,
a pressure which can prove difficult for some.
It progresses from technical skills in the
first term to performance, career advice and
support in the third term. Also, in the final
term, a Showcase is presented in Birmingham
and London to invited agents, casting directors
and other professionals. A final performance is
delivered after Showcase in a well established
Birmingham theatre.
How is my work assessed?
As the course only teaches essential elements
you are required to attend all classes
– attendance is part of the assessment of a
module. All modules are taken into account
for the final differentiation of the award
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 7220
F: 0121 331 7221
E: yinka.isaac@bcu.ac.uk
W: www.bsa.bcu.ac.uk
– Distinction, Commendation and Pass –
to reflect the level of technical ability
achieved, as well as the assimilation of
these skills into performance.
Can I study further?
If you wish to further develop your acting
and related skills, you can apply to study
the Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip) Physical
Theatre* or the PgDip/MA Professional
Voice Practice*. There are also opportunities
within the University to study a Postgraduate
Certificate in Education (PGCE).
What are my employability prospects?
Our graduate destinations are outstanding and
our graduates go on to work in all areas of the
acting profession.
Recent graduates include: ASHLEY TAYLOR-
RHYS (2007) War Horse (Royal National
Theatre); AMY BOOTH-STEEL (2007) Velma in
Scooby Do (UK Tour) Genie in Aladdin (Swan
Theatre); LOUISE MARDENBOROUGH (2006)
Filth: The Mary Whitehouse Story (BBC TV),
Doctors (TV), The Snow Queen (Theatre Royal
Stratford East), CRAIG STORROD (2006) The
Fixer, Sound, The Bill (TV), Five Guys Named
Moe (The English Theatre Frankfurt), Romeo
and Juliet (Escapade Theatre), The Snow Queen
(The Theatre Royal Stratford East), DREW
WEBB (2006) Filth: The Mary Whitehouse Story
(BBC TV); CATHERINE TYLDESLEY (2006) It’s
Adam and Shelley, Iris in Lilies, Drop Dead
Gorgeous, Coronation Street, Sorted, Holby
City (TV) Miss Nightingale (Film); DANIEL
ANDERSON (2005) Fools Paradise (Nu Century
Arts), The Bill (TV), God is a DJ (Theatre
Things to note...
Summer Schools are offered for actors
and non-actors of all ages and levels
of experience and confidence.
Centre); NALINI CHETTY (2006) Yellow Moon
(Citizen Theatre Company and Broadway,
NY), Amid The Clouds (Battersea Arts
Centre); REBECCA MCQUILLAN (2005) Desire
Under The Elms (Citizen Theatre Company);
REMI WILSON (2004) Promises and Lies
(Birmingham REP), Playboy of The West Indies
(Almeida), William and Mary, Hyperdrive (TV)
As Remi Nicole she has had a hit single ‘Go
Mr Sunshine’ and recently released her debut
album on Island Records: I Don’t Know What
I Am (Music); HELEN GEORGE (2003) Hotel
Babylon, Hollyoaks (TV) High School Musical
(Disney Tour), The Woman In White (West
End); NIGEL BOYLE (2003) The Ken Campbell
Impo Show (The Inn on the Green), Sweet Love
Remembered (Shakespeare Globe), Casualty,
The Peep Show, All In The Game (TV); KIERON
HILL (2002) Appearing in The Histories,
directed by Michael Boyd at The Courtyard
Theatre (Royal Shakespeare Company);
DHAFFER L’ABIDINE (2002) Rise of the
Footsoldier, The Mark of Cain, The Children
of Men (Film) The Whistleblowers, Prince
of Poets, Thieves Like Us, Spooks, Dream
Team (TV); TOM LISTER (2001) Carl King in
Emmerdale, The Bill, Heartbeat (TV) Love’s
Mistress (Globe Theatre); JAMES DAFFERN
(2000) Where The Heart Is, Doctors, Holby
City, The Rotters Club (TV) Smirnoff, Tango,
Fiat Punto (Commercials); KATY LEEMING
(1999) Tess of the D’Urbervilles, La Cava, Les
Miserables (West End) Beyond The Barricade
(UK Tour) The Wizard of OZ (Birmingham
REP); LUKE MABLY (1998) Blue Murder, Who
Gets The Dog, Holby City, Dream Team (TV)
Save Angel Hope, The Prince and Me 2, Colour
Me Kubrick: A True…ish Story, Spirit Trap,
The Prince and Me, 28 Days Later (Film); JIMI
MISTRY (1996) Spooks, EastEnders (TV), Blood
Diamond, Partition, Ella Enchanted, The Guru,
My Kingdom, East is East (Film)
• END

*Subject to validation
 Physical Theatre*
18
PgDip
FULL-TIME 1 YEAR
BIRMINGHAM SCHOOL OF ACTING | MILLENNIUM POINT
Section Three Courses Acting and Theatre
Getting started - what will I need?
• An initial qualification at Honours level
usually in a complementary subject
i.e. Drama, Theatre Studies, English
Literature, etc.
• Prior experience that would facilitate the
successful completion of the course and
demonstrate at special interview your ability
to progress at the required rate.
Audition process (£30 non-refundable)
In order to gain a place on the course you will
be required to attend an audition at the school.
There is no need to prepare anything. The
audition will start at with a group warm up and
movement class, followed by an improvisation
session. Later there will be a short interview
where we can find out something about you
and why you want to be on the course. Just
as important, you will be able to ask us
about the course and what we do.
Tell me more...
This course offers advanced, intensive, practical
training for actors who wish to further their
skills in making work that is fully expressive
and creative. It has at its core three vital
elements in the creation of physical theatre:
movement analysis, voice and ensemble work.
You will learn to develop your own physical
technique and presence in order that you can
be as physically and vocally expressive as
possible. You will also expand on your ability to
work with others and to be creative with space
and flexible in time.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
What will I study?
The course consists of three core creative
skills classes:
Movement awareness
You will develop movement technique and body
awareness involving balance, co-ordination,
physical connection and articulation and
isolation. Other areas covered are elements
of Feldenkrais technique, mime and acrobatics.
Voice
Voice is an element in most of the work and
this class builds on the basic technique of
good vocal use, deepening the understanding
of the connection between voice and body.
Ensemble
This develops your creativity; working in space,
time and with fellow actors. Areas covered
are elements of Laban technique, contact
improvisation, group rhythm work, element
and animal work.
Running alongside these classes will be
extended laboratories in areas that may include:
• Full Mask
• Physical Storytelling
• Clown and Comedy
• Half Mask
• Character
• Text and Tragedy
The course is run and taught by experienced
professional physical theatre practitioners
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 7220
F: 0121 331 7221
E: yinka.isaac@bcu.ac.uk
W: www.bsa.bcu.ac.uk
who can help develop your own method and
approach to the work. You will be continually
asked to create and develop work and by the
end of the course will understand the nature
of collaborative and devised work and be
pro-active in your own.
How is my work assessed?
As the course only teaches essential elements
you are required to attend all classes
– attendance is part of the assessment of
a module. All modules are taken into account
for the final differentiation of the award
– Distinction, Commendation and Pass – to
reflect the level of technical ability achieved
as well as the assimilation of these skills
into performance.
Can I study further?
If you wish to further develop your acting
and related skills, you can apply to study the
Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip) Acting* or the
PgDip/MA Professional Voice Practice*. There are
also opportunities within the University to study
a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE).
What are my employability prospects?
This course offers a stimulating, practice-
based training that will prepare you for a
career within physical theatre practice.
Graduates will be skilled in technique and
accomplished in making and devising work
of a professional standard.
• END
*Subject to validation
Things to note...
Birmingham School of Acting uses
professional venues for all public
performances giving the School access
to a range of theatre spaces few drama
schools can match.
Professional Voice Practice*
PgDip/MA
FULL-TIME 1 YEAR OR PART-TIME 2 YEARS
BIRMINGHAM SCHOOL OF ACTING | MILLENNIUM POINT
Getting started - what will I need?
• Candidates will normally possess a first
degree, performance diploma or equivalent
qualification, usually in a complementary
subject i.e. Drama, Theatre Studies, English
Literature, etc.
• If you do not meet the above entry
requirements but possess an appropriate
level of performance skills and professional
experience, you will also be considered.
You may be asked to demonstrate at special
interview ability to progress at the
required rate.
Audition is through a two stage process –
audition and interview (£30 non-refundable).
For the audition, candidates are required to
prepare and present:
• A two minute speech in verse from an
Elizabethan/Jacobean play OR a musical
theatre song (accompaniment provided)
• A Shakespearean sonnet
• A piece of modern or contemporary verse
This programme must not last more than
five minutes. You need to be able to
demonstrate some sensitivity to, and
awareness of, the demands of speaking
text in a performance context.
The audition will be followed by an interview
with the Course Director.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
Tell me more...
The course was developed with the support of
the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) Voice
Department and will feature guest lectures
from a range of practitioners, including
renowned voice teachers and coaches
as well as laryngologists, speech therapists
and voice professionals working within the
medical profession.
It is likely to appeal to those who already have
an interest in and some knowledge of voice:
actors, drama graduates, teachers, speech
therapists, singers and musicians with a
particular interest in vocal music.
This course is intended for those who seek
specialised practice and study in voice and
speech. Whilst the foundation of the course
is rooted in the principles of healthy vocal
use, it will not focus on a particular system
or regime. It will concentrate on an approach
to working with language developed by Cicely
Berry at the RSC and you will have the
opportunity of working with members of
the RSC Voice Department. There are also
placement opportunities with the RSC.
What will I study?
This course provides an opportunity to study in
depth the theory and practice of working with
the voice. Sound theoretical underpinning is
provided by a study of anatomy and physiology,
phonology and voice pedagogy. Simultaneously,
you will develop your own vocal instrument
through a study of practical voice work,
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 7220
F: 0121 331 7221
E: yinka.isaac@bcu.ac.uk
W: www.bsa.bcu.ac.uk
19
Section Three Courses Acting and Theatre
practical work on text and singing. Your
teaching skills are developed through micro
teaching, teaching practice and/or professional
placements within local theatres (including the
RSC) and regional drama schools.
The course also develops independent research
skills, and in the final term of the course
Master’s students will produce a research
project/dissertation.
How is my work assessed?
As the course only teaches essential elements
you are required to attend all classes
– attendance is part of the assessment of a
module. All modules are taken into account
for the final differentiation of the award
– Distinction, Commendation and Pass –
to reflect the level of ability achieved.
Can I study further?
If you wish to further develop your acting
and related skills, you can apply to study
the Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip) Physical
Theatre* or the PgDip Acting*. There are
opportunities within the University to study a
Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE).
What are my employability prospects?
Graduate opportunities are wide ranging
and include voice teaching/coaching, private
practice, community work and education.
• END
*Subject to validation
Things to note...
You will be placed in an artistic environment
where, working with creative professionals,
you will be given the freedom to explore
your talent and learn to express yourself.
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
 Design Management
PgCert/PgDip/MA
20
FULL-TIME 1 YEAR | PART-TIME 2 YEARS
PART-TIME VIA LEARNING CONTRACT
BIAD | GOSTA GREEN
Section Three Courses Art, Design and Visual Communication
Getting started - what will I need?
• First or second class Honours degree in a
related subject, or equivalent qualifications
or experience.
• Background or proven interest in design and
design management.
• For overseas students English language
scored at 6.5 on the IELTS rating or 550 (213
computer) on TOEFL.
Tell me more...
This course attracts graduates, designers
and non-designers who want to enhance
their career prospects by gaining knowledge
and skills in design management. This is an
innovative and well-proven course that provides
the opportunity to collaborate with external
companies, organisations and those involved
in design. There is also the option to undertake
a six week placement.
Pathways
Building on the success of this master’s, four
pathways are now offered, you will choose your
pathway at the MA stage of the course.
Professional Practice
Insight into design practice enables you to
develop your strategic skills, learning how to
manage people and process.
Entrepreneurship & Innovation
You will explore the nature of entrepreneurship
and innovation and can develop a business plan
as your dissertation.
Sustainable Design Policy
You will research the relationship between design
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
and organisational policy and explore the role
of designers in achieving a sustainable future.
Service Design
This pathway creates the opportunity to explore
the specific role that design plays within the
design of services and the service sector.
What will I study?
The multi-disciplinary, professionally focused
curriculum explores design management
and its function within organisations. You will
tailor your work around your own particular
specialisation and study the design industry;
design policy; the strategic role of design
in business and marketing; and design
practice including project management,
law and finance.
The course team of established academics
and design professionals also places great
emphasis on the development of interpersonal
and professional communication skills.
The course offers:
• Collaboration with external organisations
involved in design at all three stages of the
programme, including an optional placement.
• Experience of working directly with designers,
providing insight into the crucial relationship
between designers and non-designers.
• The opportunity to reflect upon and develop
essential interpersonal, team-working,
motivational and influencing skills.
• The opportunity to tailor the programme
of study around your own particular area of
interest and career plan.
• Learning and networking opportunities
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 7856
F: 0121 331 5821
E: caroline.norman@bcu.ac.uk
W: www.biad.bcu.ac.uk
resulting from the integration of full-time,
part-time and learning contract students.
• The unique option for UK and EU students to
study part-time via a Learning Contract. This
requires only 15 days attendance and enables
practising designers and design managers
to develop their careers through work-based
learning, while remaining in employment. If
you study by Learning Contract, you will tailor
your programme of study around personal and
work related goals and gain credit towards
the Master’s for projects and time at work.
How is my work assessed?
The course provides continuous formative
assessment via group and individual tutorial
feedback. Summative assessment is based
upon a combination of individual seminars,
team presentations, industry-standard reports,
individual essays, team reports and briefings
plus the final dissertation.
Can I study further?
There are opportunities for design and design
policy research, as research assistants on
funded projects, or as research students
studying for an MPhil or PhD.
What are my employability prospects?
Career opportunities are found in design and
brand consultancies, in-house design and
marketing departments as designers, design
managers, project and account managers
and marketing communication managers and
buyers. Graduates have also become freelance
consultants, set up their own businesses and
pursued careers in research and teaching.
• END
Things to note...
BIAD has a strong tradition of arts
education, combined with excellent
facilities and expert teaching staff to
nurture and inspire your creative talents.
Arts and Project Management*
PgCert/PgDip/MA
FULL-TIME 1 YEAR | PART-TIME 2 YEARS
BIAD | GOSTA GREEN
Getting started - what will I need?
• First degree in a relevant subject, equivalent
qualifications or equivalent experience.
• The course welcomes applications from
mature students
Tell me more...
This Master’s (MA) is designed for those who
wish to pursue a career in arts management.
It will be of particular interest to graduates
from art and design; humanities; media and
performance; and business and management
subjects. The course is the only MA programme
of its kind in the region and has close links
with arts organisations, enabling valuable work
experience placements.
What will I study?
This broad-based programme is designed for
students who wish to pursue a career in arts
management. It focuses on the relationship and
interaction of artists and performers with the
public. In exhibitions, festivals, commissioned
work, art fairs and performance spaces,
contemporary arts in the public sphere are
mediated by arts managers and administrators.
Subject areas studied during the course include
management and administration; financial
planning and marketing; fundraising and bid
writing, in the context of the current cultural,
social and economic climate, as well as the
legal and logistical requirements.
Core modules include Arts Policy and
Planning, Financial and Time Management,
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
21
Section Three Courses Art, Design and Visual Communication
Contemporary Cultural Directions, and
Fundraising and Bid Writing. A key module in
the Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip) phase is the
placement with an arts organisation, project
or venue. This facilitates networking and helps
you to establish contacts with organisations
that are potential future employers. In the same
phase of the programme, you will choose an
optional module such as Modes and Methods
of Curatorial Practice, Creative Marketing or
Museums and Museology. At the MA stage you
will complete a major project or dissertation.
How is my work assessed?
Assessment methods are appropriate
to the learning outcomes of the modules.
They include written assignments, oral
presentations and projects.
Can I study further?
Successful graduates from the programme
could consider research degrees (MPhil
and PhD).
What are my employability prospects?
The course aims to equip students for posts
as managers or programmers of arts venues,
arts officers for local authorities and the Arts
Council, and fundraisers or bid writers for
arts organisations. Jobs might include Gallery
Administrator, Theatre Manager, Arts Officer,
Curator, Business Development Manager,
Festival Administrator or Events Manager.
• END
*Subject to approval
How can I get more info? Things to note...
T: 0121 331 5800 BIAD has strong links with industry to
F: 0121 331 7814 ensure courses remain highly relevant
E: enquiries@students.bcu.ac.uk to today’s creative sector.
W: www.biad.bcu.ac.uk
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
 Creative Self-development: Colour and Painting / Creative Printmaking and
Watercolour / Creative Craft Ceramics / Creative Techniques Figure Drawing
and Painting / Traditional Photography / Digital Photography
22
PART-TIME VARIOUS
Section Three Courses Art, Design and Visual Communication
BIAD | BOURNVILLE CENTRE FOR VISUAL ARTS
Getting started - what will I need?
Formal qualifications are not usually required
but you should be motivated and demonstrate
an interest in the subject you wish to pursue.
Whilst largely for adults with some experience,
there are also opportunities for beginners.
Tell me more...
Part of the University’s commitment to life-long
learning, these classes enable you to explore
your particular interest and build on existing
skills. The focus is on learning through creative
practice – for its own sake and without the
constraints of studying for an award.
What will I study?
Colour and Painting
The course offers both beginners and more
experienced artists the opportunity to develop
drawing and painting skills across a broad
range of styles and techniques. Expert tuition
from a practicing artist and excellent studio
facilities are integral to the course. The course
offers the opportunity to enhance acquired
skills and develop new techniques in an
informal atmosphere.
Creative Printmaking and Watercolour
The course introduces both beginners and
more experienced artists to printmaking and
water colour techniques. Expert tuition from a
practising artist and well resourced print facilities
are integral to the course. Students may develop
their expertise in either or both disciplines and
are encouraged to experiment technically with
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
both media. The course offers the opportunity
to enhance acquired skills and develop new
techniques in an informal atmosphere.
Creative Craft Ceramics
These courses are for beginners as well
as more experienced ceramicists and offer
the opportunity to learn skills in traditional
throwing and hand building as well as glazing
and firing. There are opportunities to work
both traditionally and in creative sculptural
ways. The courses are tutored by practicing
experienced ceramicists and have access to
high quality facilities for throwing, making,
glazing and firing. The courses are available
on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays during
term times and offer an informal learning
environment in which to develop at your
own pace.
Creative Techniques Figure Drawing and Painting
The course is for beginners and more
experienced artists, enabling you to explore
the use of a variety of media and techniques
in figure drawing. There are opportunities to
work traditionally and experimentally with
the figure. The course is tutored by practising
artists in pleasant, well equipped studios. The
atmosphere is informal with the chance to
develop at your own pace.
Traditional Photography
This course offers the opportunity to explore
and become proficient in the skills of traditional
photography. You will have the opportunity to
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 5775
F: 0121 331 5779
E: enquiries@students.bcu.ac.uk
W: www.biad.bcu.ac.uk
learn use of the camera, studio photography,
portraiture, urban landscapes, film processing
and photographic printing. You will be required
to produce your own work at all times, both at
college and in your own time. You will research
contemporary artists and photographers
and relate that to your work. During the
course there will be an option to look at some
elements of digital photography. This course
is suitable for both novices and students with
more subject experience.
Digital Photography
This course offers the opportunity to explore
and become proficient in the skills of digital
photography and the use of Photoshop. Course
content includes use of the camera, studio
photography, portraiture, urban landscapes,
capture of images, file transfer, digital
manipulation and printing. This course will
require you to produce your own work at all
times, both at college and in your own time.
You will research contemporary artists and
photographers and relate that to your own
work. This course is suitable for both novices
and students with more subject experience.
How is my work assessed?
These classes focus on the joy of creative
practice in the visual arts and there is no
formal assessment. You will be guided by
your tutor in continuously evaluating what
you create as a natural part of development
through learning.
CONT...
Things to note...
Open days are on 2 Dec 08, 13 Jan 09,
3 Feb 09, 3 march 09 and 21 April 09,
see www.biad.bcu.ac.uk for more info
Can I study further?
Whilst these classes are not intended as
preparatory, they may help you progress to
one of our undergraduate programmes.
What are my employability prospects?
Again, these classes are intended as learning
experiences in their own right but they may
enhance your employability by developing new
or existing skills.
• END
Design and Visualisation
PgCert/PgDip/MA
FULL-TIME 1 YEAR | PART-TIME 2 YEARS
BIAD | GOSTA GREEN
Getting started - what will I need?
• A first or upper second class Honours
• degree in a design related subject, equivalent
• qualifications or equivalent experience.
• For mature students, admission decisions
• will be based on your individual academic
• achievement, ability and potential, and the
• information presented in your application.
Tell me more...
The course is aimed at graduates and
professionals with a background in any area
of two or three dimensional design, whose
interests are in developing visualisation
skills at all stages of the design process. It
is anticipated that the applicant’s previous
experience will be diverse and subject areas
could be as wide ranging as architecture,
interior design, product design, furniture
design, theatre design, illustration, fine art
and visual communication.
What will I study?
This is a forty-five week course divided into
three, fifteen week trimesters. Each trimester
is divided into a ten week structured
programme followed by five weeks of
independent learning and reflection.
During the Postgraduate Certificate (PgCert)
stage you will study modules in Design Process,
Design Evolution, Digital Design Visualisation
and Analogue Design Visualisation, some of
which you will share with interior and product
design Master’s (MA) students.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
23
Section Three Courses Art, Design and Visual Communication
Digital Design Visualisation is a series of
fast-paced, short projects during which you
will experience and complete a comprehensive
series of digital visualisation techniques.
Analogue Design Visualisation is the
exploration of the potential of processes
that are not totally dependent on digital
technologies, including: evolutionary mock-
ups; scenario enactment; physical modelling;
two and three dimensional collage; and other
animation techniques.
The Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip) stage offers
options in post optimal design and considers
research methodologies that can then be
incorporated into the planning of your personal
project research. The module will be shared
with product design, interior design and design
management Master’s students, depending on
your chosen subject area. The personal project
will demonstrate your strengths in a chosen
range of visualisation techniques, and the
potential of those techniques to enhance the
effectiveness of an appropriate design process.
The taught elements of the PgCert and PgDip
stages combine to inform and provide new
analytical ideals to incorporate within the
personal project undertaken at Master’s stage.
The course encourages and includes industrial
collaboration and live projects. The personal
project will be appropriate to your first degree
experience and career ambitions and
chosen for its suitability to showcase your
visualisation skills.
CONT...
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 5800
F: 0121 331 7814
E: enquiries@students.bcu.ac.uk
W: www.biad bcu.ac.uk
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
 How is my work assessed?
Assessments will take place during individual/
group presentations at interim stages and at
the end of each module. Immediate verbal
24
feedback is given to students during the interim
stages and written feedback is given at the end
of each module.
Section Three Courses Art, Design and Visual Communication
Can I study further?
Successful students can further their study
in design research as research assistants
on funded projects, or as research students
studying for an MPhil or PhD.
What are my employability prospects?
Graduates from this course can use their
acquired knowledge and skills in a variety of
jobs including:
• Design practice: in-house and consultancy.
• Design entrepreneurship, self employment.
• 3D Design Visualisation in Interior Design,
Architecture, Product Design, 3D Virtual
Environments for games.
• Education: as teachers/lecturers of design
related topics.
• END
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
Photography: Documentary Practice*
PgCert/PgDip/MA
FULL-TIME 1 YEAR | PART-TIME 2 YEARS
BIAD | GOSTA GREEN
Getting started - what will I need?
Either a first or upper-second class Honours
degree in a related subject, equivalent
qualifications or experience. Interviews are
held throughout the year and potential
applicants are welcome to make an
appointment to visit the Faculty.
Tell me more...
The course is aimed at those who have
completed a first degree in photography and
have a keen interest in the broad umbrella of
documentary practice and wish to study the
subject in greater depth. Many students who
have studied with us at postgraduate level
have had experience in the industry and wish
to return to education to pursue more personal
lines of enquiry. The Department of Visual
Communication has a proven track record
in documentary photography in relation to
graduates and staff expertise. We are delighted
to be one of the very few institutes to benefit
from an education partnership with the world
renowned Magnum photo agency. This allows
you exclusive access to Magnum staff expertise
and resources, including potential internships.
What will I study?
It is a taught programme exploring approaches
in documentary practice during the Postgraduate
Certificate (PgCert). This follows with a
negotiated research project and a collaborative
module, in partnership with Birmingham
Central Library, during the Postgraduate
Diploma (PgDip), exploring it’s celebrated
photographic archive, which includes Bill
Brandt images and note books. The Master’s
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
(MA) stage concludes in a self-directed substantial
body of work. This combines academic rigour
with the maximum of creative flexibility.
Study is carried out through academic research
work, practical visual experimental work and
specific project work. This approach promotes
a wide variety of individually generated
investigations within the student group.
Study is supported by lectures, workshops,
tutorials, group seminars and the MA forum.
This facilitates a critical dialogue concerned
with practice and the evolving debates around
contemporary documentary photography.
Part-time attendance is one day per week.
In addition, you are expected to complete
eight hours directed study per week – this
can include research, theoretical, written or
practical work.
How is my work assessed?
Assessment is both formative and summative
and will involve presentation of work at each
award stage. The PgCert and PgDip stages
require written submissions to support the
practical outcomes.
What are my employability prospects?
Graduates from this course would be expected
to find work in the creative industries. Whilst
most may follow a career as a photographer,
others will find work in related fields including,
curation, publishing, arts management
and education.
• END * Subject to approval
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 5992
F: 0121 331 6020
E: nathan.tromano@bcu.ac.uk
W: www.biad.bcu.ac.uk
Queer Studies in Arts and Culture
PgCert/PgDip/MA
FULL-TIME 1 YEAR | PART-TIME 2 YEARS
BIAD | SCHOOL OF ART
Getting started - what will I need?
A first or second class Honours degree in a
related subject, equivalent qualifications or
professional/life experience.
Tell me more...
This is a new course unique in the UK. It is
designed to facilitate your desire to pursue
advanced level study by enabling you to
question your current arts based and/or
written practice in light of contemporary
debates in queer studies, and its impact on
creativity and the production and experience
of art, within an exciting and supportive
environment. It is anticipated that the course
will attract students from a wide range of
backgrounds, e.g. artists, writers, historians,
critics, theorists, curators, activists, educators,
health and community arts workers.
We are committed to life-long learning and the
School attracts a diverse range of applicants
from local, national and international
backgrounds and experience. All students are
taught by a number of specialist practitioners
and visiting artists, theorists and curators.
Full and part-time students have open access
to the Art-based Master’s Research Room
and all bookable facilities, equipment and
support at the School of Art in Margaret Street.
Full-time, practice-orientated students have
studio space on site, while part-time, practice-
orientated students are normally based in their
own studios/work spaces.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
What will I study?
The course consists of core and option modules
and is centred on the relationship between arts,
culture and theory. You decide on the balance
you wish to strike between all three. While
some modules are theory based, others require
you to determine the ratio between writing and
a negotiated arts-based practice, in relation to
contemporary culture and current debate.
Postgraduate Certificate (PgCert)
Subjectivity, Arts and Culture provides the
core element of your course and establishes
the basis for progression to PgDip. Research
Methodologies and Professional Practice
provide valuable support through briefings,
lectures, studio and theory seminars and
individual and group tutorials.
Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip)
Queer Strategies in Practice builds on the
work undertaken at PgCert and consists of
both a taught element and self directed study.
The seminar option enables you to develop an
appropriate context to form the base of your
Contextual Research Presentation. This can be
presented as an extended essay of 5,000 words
or an equivalent project. You will be supported
through briefings, lectures, studio and theory
seminars and individual and group tutorials.
Master’s
This stage of the course consists of the
development and resolution of a negotiated
project or equivalent dissertation. You will
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 5970
F: 0121 331 6970
E: henry.rogers@bcu.ac.uk
W: www.biadart.com
25
Section Three Courses Art, Design and Visual Communication
be supported through briefings and
individual tutorials.
How is my work assessed?
Assessment is determined by the extent to
which you have fulfilled the learning outcomes
of the module within each stage of the course.
Work submitted for assessment will include
both written and project-based work. In some
instances, art practice will be submitted.
Can I study further?
The School invites applications for MPhil and
PhD research (by thesis or split theory/practice)
within The Centre for Fine Art Research (CFAR).
What are my employability prospects?
It is anticipated that you will gain employment
across the full spectrum of arts, cultural,
social and educational opportunities, e.g.
artists, writers, historians, critics, theorists,
curators, activists, educators, health and
community arts workers. You might wish
to progress to higher degree research.
• END
Things to note...
We have an excellent range of facilities,
including installation and gallery spaces
and workshops for print, wood, steel,
plaster, photography and IT. We also have
significant links with the city’s galleries.
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
 Web Presence*
26
PgCert/PgDip/MA
FULL-TIME 1 YEAR | PART-TIME 2 YEARS
BIAD | GOSTA GREEN
Section Three Courses Art, Design and Visual Communication
Getting started - what will I need?
• First degree in a relevant subject, equivalent
qualifications or equivalent experience.
• The course welcomes applications from
mature students
Tell me more...
Companies and public bodies are increasingly
using internet technologies to develop new
ways to market and sell products and services,
with demand continuing to grow for people with
these skills. The course is designed to provide
you with relevant skills to be able to plan,
design and market an effective web presence in
relation to the needs of a business, profession,
public body or other organisation. Graduates
from a wide range of related subjects can be
considered for entry to the course, these could
include graphic design/visual communication,
marketing or business studies.
What will I study?
The programme covers the functional aspects
of website design, focusing on usability,
accessibility and information architecture.
You will explore approaches to visual design
in relation to business objectives to develop
articulate, visual strategies in support of
brand and corporate identities. The marketing
modules cover content strategies, search
engine optimisation, e-marketing strategies
and effectiveness monitoring.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
The course provides you with the opportunity course focuses on producing graduates with
to develop high-level skills in web design and skills demanded by industry today.
management by the negotiation of a practice-
based programme of learning grounded in How is my work assessed?
current theory, and supported by dynamic links Assessment methods are appropriate to
with industry. Learning opportunities are rich the learning outcomes of the modules.
and varied; in parallel with lectures, seminars They include written assignments, oral
and study visits, you are invited to negotiate presentations and projects.
innovative, flexible approaches to study in
support of your negotiated project pathway. Can I study further?
Successful graduates from the programme
Learning is supported by a range of specialist could go on to complete research degrees
staff with both academic and business facing (MPhil and PhD).
expertise. This synergy promotes authentic
individual enquiry in the context of current What are my employability prospects?
industry practices. The course aims to equip you for web based
roles within corporate entities, public bodies,
You will have use of a state of the art digital web design agencies and marketing/
visualisation hub, providing you with an advertising agencies.
exciting technical environment to support • END
practical project development. It includes:
high-definition video editing; motion capture; * Subject to approval
rapid prototyping; and the MILO motion control
system, the only one of its kind in a
UK university.
The course also benefits from the experience
gained by BIAD’s externally facing projects,
interfacing directly with businesses in both the
creative and ICT sectors. These close links with
companies such as Oakley Wilkinson Bryan
(Media, Advertising and PR) ensure that the
How can I get more info? Things to note...
T: 0121 331 5800 You will have use of a state-of-the-art
F: 0121 331 7814 digital visualisation hub.
E: enquiries@students.bcu.ac.uk
W: www.biad.bcu.ac.uk
Innovation and Entrepreneurship
CERTIFICATE IN PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
PART-TIME VARIABLE
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Getting started - what will I need?
Whilst there are no formal education entry
requirements for the course, a good general
education is necessary, particularly with
regard to literacy and numeracy. Mature
individuals with relevant experience may
also be eligible for entry following an
interview with the course director. Please
contact the tic on 0121 331 6400 to arrange
an informal discussion.
Tell me more...
The course consists of two core modules
covering Entrepreneurship and Innovation
of Technology-based Products and Services.
A further three optional modules (or equivalent)
must be studied to successfully complete the
course. These can be selected from:
• Introduction to Information Communications
Technology
• Career Preparation and Personal
Development
• Project Management
• Marketing for Extended Products
and Services
• Creative Thinking
• Introduction to Collaborative Technologies
• Double Project
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
Delivery of the course is flexible and tends to
be part-time or block delivery either during the
evening, weekend or outside normal term-time.
Duration is variable depending on the mode of
delivery. Typically, it will be one academic year
for a day-release student, but no more than five
years from enrolment.
Course modules are scheduled to enable you
to select those appropriate to your individual
needs, thus permitting the programme to be
studied in either a short or extended time scale.
Attendance may be on-site at tic, off-site at an
approved venue or in-company when required.
How is my work assessed?
A range of assessment methods is used
throughout the course including continuous
assessment, in-class tests, examinations,
laboratory exercises and project work. Using
these methods, your all-round ability will be
appraised, thus providing you with the best
opportunity to excel.
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 6400
F: 0121 331 5401
E: course.enquiries@tic.ac.uk
W: www.tic.ac.uk
27
Section Three Courses Business and Management
Can I study further?
The course provides an introduction to higher
level study and also provides progression
opportunities for further study/qualifications at
foundation and/or degree level.
What are my employability prospects?
Continuing professional development is
essential either for those in employment
or those seeking employment. The ongoing
advance of new technologies and associated
techniques makes the need to update skills
paramount in the quest for career progression.
• END
Things to note...
Almost all of our courses are now
supported by Moodle, the University’s
‘virtual learning environment’.
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
 Lean Operations
28
CERTIFICATE IN PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
PART-TIME 1 YEAR
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Section Three Courses Business and Management
Getting started - what will I need?
Whilst there are no formal education entry
requirements for the course, a good general
education is necessary, particularly with regard
to literacy and numeracy. Mature individuals
with relevant experience may also be eligible
for entry following an interview with the course
director. Please contact the tic on 0121 331
6400 to arrange an informal discussion.
Tell me more...
This course has been designed with flexibility,
enabling you to build a custom programme
of study around the techniques and
methodologies associated with lean thinking.
It aims to equip you with an understanding of
how the application of lean thinking and the
philosophy of continuous improvement can
influence economic, social and environmental
factors in the global economy.
What will I study?
The study programme provides a choice from a
variety of modules and involves the introduction
of computer-based support systems. The
course consists of one core module – World
Class Operations.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
A further four optional modules or equivalent
must be studied to successfully complete the
course. These can be selected from:
• Double Project
• Introduction to Product Lifecycle Management
• Knowledge Based Engineering
• Environmental Management
• Prescriptive Improvement Methodologies
• Enterprise Resource Planning
• Introduction to Quality
• Digital Tools for Projects
• Project Management
• Creative Thinking
• Introduction to Collaborative Technologies
• Introduction to Operations and Management
• Introduction to Information
Communications Technology
• Developing Human Resources A
How is my work assessed?
A range of assessment methods is used
throughout the course including continuous
assessment, in-class tests, examinations,
laboratory exercises and project work. Using
these methods, your all-round ability will be
appraised, thus providing you with the best
opportunity to excel.
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 6400
F: 0121 331 5401
E: course.enquiries@tic.ac.uk
W: www.tic.ac.uk
Can I study further?
The course provides an introduction to higher
level study and also provides progression
opportunities for further study/qualifications
at foundation and/or degree level.
What are my employability prospects?
Continuing professional development is
essential either for those in employment
or those seeking employment. The ongoing
advancement of new technologies and
associated techniques makes the need to
update skills paramount in the quest for
career progression.
• END
Things to note...
The tic uniquely integrates learning
programmes with solutions for business,
employing some 300 staff, with over a third
working directly on knowledge and technology
transfer programmes with industry.
Management of Innovation and Change
CERTIFICATE IN PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
PART-TIME VARIABLE
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Getting started - what will I need?
Whilst there are no formal education entry
requirements for the course, a good general
education is necessary, particularly with regard
to literacy and numeracy. Mature individuals
with relevant experience may also be eligible
for entry following an interview with the course
director. Please contact the tic on 0121 331
6400 to arrange an informal discussion.
Tell me more...
This course is particularly suited to those
who are working or would like to work in a
career where change management, teamwork,
ICT and communication skills are required.
The course will also benefit those who wish
to increase their understanding of the
principles of recruitment and selection
and project management.
What will I study?
The course comprises an industry-based
project as well as one full and one half core
module covering the following areas:
• Creative Thinking
• Single or Double Project
• Systematic Innovation
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
A further optional one and a half or two
and a half modules must also be studied to
successfully complete the course and may be
selected from the following:
• Digital Imaging and Desktop Publishing
• Introduction to Database Design
• Developing Human Resources
• Marketing for Extended Products
and Services
• Introduction to Collaborative Technologies
• Career Preparation and Personal
Development
• Project Management
Delivery of the course is flexible and tends to
be part-time or block delivery either during the
evening, weekend or outside normal term-time.
Duration is variable depending on the mode of
delivery. Typically, it will be one academic year
for a day-release student, but no more than
five years from enrolment. Course modules
are scheduled to enable you to select those
appropriate to your individual needs, thus
permitting the programme to be studied in
either a short or extended time scale.
Attendance may be on-site at tic, off-site at an
approved venue or in-company when required.
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 6400
F: 0121 331 5401
E: course.enquiries@tic.ac.uk
W: www.tic.ac.uk
29
Section Three Courses Business and Management
How is my work assessed?
A range of assessment methods is used
throughout the course including continuous
assessment, in-class tests, examinations,
laboratory exercises and project work. Using
these methods, your all-round ability will be
appraised, thus providing you with the best
opportunity to excel.
Can I study further?
The course provides an introduction to higher
level study and also provides progression
opportunities for further study/qualifications
at foundation and/or degree level.
What are my employability prospects?
Continuing professional development is
essential either for those in employment
or those seeking employment. The ongoing
advancement of new technologies and
associated techniques makes the need to
update skills paramount in the quest for
career progression.
• END
Things to note...
Among its 2,500 student population is
a substantial and growing number of
international students.
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
 Operations Management
30
PgCert/PgDip/MSc
PART-TIME 32 MONTHS
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Section Three Courses Business and Management
Getting started - what will I need?
See page 286 of the current prospectus for
standard entry requirements.
If you do not hold the standard entry
requirements you may be considered for
admission provided you can satisfy the course
director and relevant module tutors that your
qualifications and/or industrial experience
are sufficient.
Tell me more...
This advanced study of Operations Management
provides a programme that addresses the
impact of technological advancement in
processes and procedures on the people who
use them. The underpinning modules of project
and process management are complemented
by an introduction to resource management,
exploring the basic premise that managing
the human resource is integral to
organisational success.
What will I study?
The course consists of four major modules and
the Master’s (MSc) project.
The successful completion of two modules
leads to the award of Postgraduate Certificate
(PgCert). Completion of two further modules
leads to the award of Postgraduate Diploma
(PgDip) and the completion of the project leads
to the MSc.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
The four modules are as follows:
Resource Management:
• Developing Human Capability
• Developing Financial Capability
• Developing Technology Capability
Integrated Project and Process Management:
• Managing Projects
• Managing Operations
• Marketplace Positioning
Strategies to Optimise Commercial Success:
• Developing Business Strategy
• Designing the Organisation
• Innovation, Design and Wealth Creation
Technologies for the Extended Enterprise:
• Technology Frameworks
• Information Systems (MRP, ERP)
• System and Process Integration
Master’s project
The MSc project provides an opportunity
to apply knowledge gained during study to
a substantial problem. This will test your
ability to integrate and utilise skills learnt
on the course.
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 6400
F: 0121 331 5401
E: course.enquiries@tic.ac.uk
W: www.tic.ac.uk
How is my work assessed?
Project reports, record keeping and oral
presentations are used extensively for
assessment purposes as well as time-
constrained tests and other approaches
as appropriate.
Can I study further?
The tic can offer postgraduate research (MPhil
and PhD) programmes, details can be found at
www.bcu.ac.uk/courses and on page 252 of the
current prospectus.
What are my employability prospects?
Typical routes of employment that could lead
from this programme include:
• Manufacturing management
• Logistics
• Improvement project management
• END
Things to note...
You can speak to one of our course advisors
if you are unsure of the right course for you,
call 0121 331 5595 for more info.
Project Management
PgCert/PgDip/MSc
FULL-TIME 16/19 MONTHS | PART-TIME 32 MONTHS
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Getting started - what will I need?
See page 286 of the current prospectus for
standard entry requirements.
If you do not hold the standard entry
requirements you may be considered for
admission provided you can satisfy the course
director and relevant theme tutors that your
qualifications and/or industrial experience
are sufficient.
Tell me more...
Managers in successful organisations need to
understand the extended enterprise, including
smart procurement and project collaboration.
Drawing on the expertise and experience of
successful managers of industrial projects,
the course will ensure that you develop the
capability to engage in collaborative enterprise,
which is essential for organisational success.
What will I study?
The course consists of four major modules and
the Master’s (MSc) project.
The successful completion of two modules
leads to the award of Postgraduate Certificate
(PgCert). Completion of two further modules
lead to the award of Postgraduate Diploma
(PgDip) and the completion of the project leads
to the MSc.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
The four themes are:
Resource Management:
• Developing Human Capability
• Developing Financial Capability
• Developing Technology Capability
Integrated Project and Process Management:
• Managing Projects
• Managing Operations
• Marketplace Positioning
Strategies to Optimise Commercial Success:
• Developing Business Strategy
• Designing the Organisation
• Innovation, Design and Wealth Creation
Project Management Methods:
• Commercial and Contractual Issues
• Finance and Risk Management
• Prime Contracting and Project Collaboration
Master’s project
The MSc project provides an opportunity
to apply knowledge gained during study to
a substantial problem. This will test your
ability to integrate and utilise skills learnt
on the course.
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 6400
F: 0121 331 5401
E: course.enquiries@tic.ac.uk
W: www.tic.ac.uk
31
Section Three Courses Business and Management
How is my work assessed?
Project reports, record keeping and oral
presentations are used extensively for
assessment purposes as well as time-
constrained tests and other approaches
as appropriate.
Can I study further?
The tic can offer postgraduate research (MPhil
and PhD) programmes, details can be found at
www.bcu.ac.uk/courses and on page 252 of the
current prospectus.
What are my employability prospects?
Typical routes of employment that could lead
from this programme include:
• Project management
• Systems design
• Systems planning
• System integration
• END
Things to note...
tic is located at Millennium Point in the
heart of Birmingham City Centre. The
£114m development provides some of
the best resources in the county.
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
 International Human Resource Management
(Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development)
32
PgCert/PgDip/MSc
FULL-TIME 1 YEAR
BUSINESS SCHOOL | CITY NORTH CAMPUS
Section Three Courses Business and Management
Getting started - what will I need?
The programme is postgraduate and applicants
should be able to meet the University’s
requirements for postgraduate study.
This normally comprises a degree or
equivalent, but professional qualifications
could also be considered. If appropriate
qualifications are not held then related
work experience in management or human
resources could be considered by means of
the Accreditation of Prior and Experiental
Learning (APEL) procedure.
As far as is reasonably practical all applicants
will be invited to visit the University to hear
more about the course and have an interview.
This helps determine suitability for the course,
and to decide if this course meets your needs
Tell me more...
The Master’s (MSc) is designed to provide
you with a learning experience that develops
the knowledge and skills required by Human
Resource Management specialists who operate
in a highly competitive global context.
When fully approved by the Chartered Institute
of Personnel and Development (CIPD) the
programme provides an opportunity for CIPD
accreditation by means of an accelerated route
over one year of full-time study.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty or online at
www.business.bcu.ac.uk
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
What will I study?
Term one largely focuses on the CIPD’s
Leadership and Management Standards, which
covers managing resources and information;
understanding the contexts within which
organisations operate; and looking at the role
of HR in organisation success.
Term two covers the CIPD’s Specialist and
Generalist Professional Standards and includes
the International Personnel and Development
module to develop HR knowledge and
techniques in an international context. Other
modules include People Resourcing, Employee
Relations and a choice between Employee
Reward or Employment Law.
Term three is devoted to the Management
Report (within the CIPD’s Applied personnel
and development field) or an individual
Dissertation. A Research Methods module is
followed to help you undertake the two pieces
of applied research. In order to meet the CIPD
requirements for graduate membership you
must complete a Management Research Report
at the MSc stage. To do so you will need to
undertake a work-based project of six-weeks.
This should enable you to undertake research
into a ‘live’ HR issue within an organisation.
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 5200
F: 0121 331 6366
E: business.school@bcu.ac.uk
W: www.business.bcu.ac.uk
How is my work assessed?
In the Postgraduate Certificate and
Postgraduate Diploma stages each module
is assessed by means of a coursework
assignment and an exam. At the MSc stage the
Research Methods module is assessed by an
assignment and the Management Research
Report or Dissertation is assessed by a 10,000
word report.
Can I study further?
You will have the opportunity to progress to
further study on the part-time DBA research
degree programme at the Business School
(see page 253 in the current prospectus).
What are my employability prospects?
The CIPD is the preeminent HR professional
body in the UK, and graduate membership
is increasingly sought by employers when
appointing to specialist HR vacancies.
Increasingly the CIPD is developing a reputation
internationally and the course offers graduates
a wide range of careers in HR.
• END
Things to note...
The Business School has an
international focus with students
from over 70 countries.
Management Information Systems
CERTIFICATE IN PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
PART-TIME 1 YEAR
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Getting started - what will I need?
Whilst there are no formal educational entry
requirements for the course, a good level of
general education is necessary, particularly
with regard to literacy and numeracy. Mature
individuals with relevant experience, and
who may have had a lengthy break from study
might also be eligible for entry following an
interview with the course director. Please
contact the tic on 0121 331 6400 to arrange
an informal discussion.
Tell me more...
This course provides practical understanding,
knowledge and skills in management
information systems, which use databases as
the source of their data. It covers the design
and development aspects of databases,
the support of database systems as well as
business process modelling.
What will I study?
This course is aimed at those with an interest
in database development or database support
in a business context. It covers a wide range
of tools and technologies including Oracle,
Microsoft SQL Server, Structured Systems
Analysis and Design Methodology (SSADM),
Unified Modelling Language (UML) and
Management Information Systems.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
To achieve the Certificate in Professional
Studies (CPS) qualification, you will complete
the equivalent of five full modules from a range
of full and half-modules which you can choose
from to meet your specific individual needs.
These may include modules that cover business
process modelling, database design, database
development, database support, database
administration and Management Information
Systems such as Enterprise Resource Planning
(ERP), Customer Relationship Management
(CRM) and Material and Resources Planning
(MRP) systems.
This course has flexible delivery and content
options allowing you to study the modules that
are most appropriate to your individual needs.
The modules may be delivered during the day
or in the evenings and may be delivered as
short intensive courses or spread over a period
of time, allowing you to study when it is most
convenient to you. It is expected that you will
complete this course in 12 months, however,
this is not mandatory. You may take up to five
years to complete this course, giving additional
flexibility should your circumstances change.
How is my work assessed?
A range of assessment methods is used
throughout the course including continuous
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 6400
F: 0121 331 5401
E: course.enquiries@tic.ac.uk
W: www.tic.ac.uk
33
Section Three Courses Business and Management
assessment, in-class tests, examinations,
laboratory exercises and project work. Using
these methods, your all-round ability will be
appraised, thus providing you with the best
opportunity to excel.
Can I study further?
The course provides an introduction to higher
level study and also provides progression
opportunities for further study/qualifications
at foundation and/or degree level.
What are my employability prospects?
Continuing professional development is
essential either for those in employment
or those seeking employment. The ongoing
advancement of new technologies and
associated techniques makes the need to
update skills paramount in the quest for
career advancement.
• END
Things to note...
tic is an integrated centre for learning and
business support, with unique expertise in
the development of skills in both individuals
and across organisations.
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
 MBA (2 years part-time)
PgCert/PgDip/MBA
34
2 YEARS PART-TIME
BUSINESS SCHOOL | CITY NORTH CAMPUS
Section Three Courses Business and Management
Getting started - what will I need?
A degree or equivalent qualification. If you
do not have a degree you could still be
considered through our APEL procedure,
which looks for evidence of being able to
benefit and succeed on the programme
through your management experience.
Relevant work experience will also
be considered.
Tell me more...
The MBA aims to address the needs of
employers with the aspirations of future
managers with this two year fast
paced programme.
What will I study?
To gain the MBA you will need to complete the
Postgraduate Certificate (PgCert), Postgraduate
Diploma (PgDip) and Master’s (MA) awards.
The PgCert stage comprises five modules and
has a functional perspective. The course begins
with the Contextual Environment module to
understand how the external environment
impacts on organisations. Finance for
Managers covers the applications of financial
accounting needed by managers. These are
followed by the functional specialisms of
Operations Management and Human Resource
Management. Marketing Management
introduces the models and concepts used by
marketing specialists.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty or online at
www.business.bcu.ac.uk
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
The PgDip stage has a more strategic
perspective. Strategic Management provides
an understanding of the strategic management
process by looking at the models and
techniques needed to analyse and implement
strategy. International Management explores
the range of issues facing organisations in an
increasingly competitive global environment.
Business Innovation and Planning provides
insights into innovative business models
and entrepreneurship and Organisation
Dynamics and Change looks at the change
issues prompted by the needs of
managing strategically.
This stage also includes the Management
Research Methods module, which introduces a
range of methods and techniques for business
and management research in preparation for
the Dissertation at MA stage.
The MA stage comprises three modules plus
the Dissertation. Leadership and Management
Development explores the concepts and ideas
about effective leadership in organisations while
the Strategic Change Management module
looks at how strategies work within different
contexts. There is a choice for the third module,
depending on which pathway is chosen:
International Business or Leadership in Action.
The dissertation involves research of a
business or management issue chosen by you
and related to your choice of pathway. As an
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 5200
F: 0121 331 6366
E: business.school@bcu.ac.uk
W: www.business.bcu.ac.uk
individual topic this is self-managed with the
help of a dedicated tutor.
A Personal Development element will also
run throughout the programme to enable you
to gain the most from your personal learning.
Class sessions run on Mondays from 2.00pm to
8.30pm each week, and there are elements of
self-managed study through flexible learning.
How is my work assessed?
Assessments include a mixture of coursework
and exams, but these will be distributed
throughout the programme to avoid clustering
and provide you with the best possible
opportunity to manage these alongside your
other commitments. Tutor help and advice will
be available through face to face meetings,
telephone and email throughout your time on
the course.
Can I study further?
You will have the opportunity to progress
to further study on the research degree
programme at the Business School (see
page 253 in the current prospectus).
What are my employability prospects?
The MBA is relevant to the needs of both
public and private sector organisations and
encourages innovation, achievement and
intellectual rigour in understanding business
and management.
• END
Things to note...
The Business School is a member of
the Association of Business Schools
(ABS) and all our courses are designed
with ABS guidelines to ensure high
standards are maintained.
Project Management
CERTIFICATE IN PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
PART-TIME 1 YEAR
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Getting started - what will I need?
Whilst there are no formal educational entry
requirements for the course, a good level of
general education is necessary, particularly
with regard to literacy and numeracy. Mature
individuals with relevant experience, and who
may have had a lengthy break from study
might also be eligible for entry following an
interview with the course director. Please
contact the tic on 0121 331 6400 to arrange
an informal discussion.
Tell me more...
This course provides practical understanding,
knowledge and skills in project management
tools and techniques, as well as the business
processes associated with managing projects
such as financial analysis and
people management.
What will I study?
This course is aimed at people who manage
small projects and want to develop and
enhance their project management skills. It
covers a wide range of tools and technologies
including an overview of the Prince 2
methodology, Microsoft Project, managing
people and managing budgets.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
To achieve the Certificate in Professional
Studies (CPS) qualification, you will complete
the equivalent of five full modules. These may
include modules that cover project costing,
resource management, Prince 2 methodology
and Microsoft Project 2007, planning and
troubleshooting, monitoring and control.
This course has flexible delivery and content
options allowing you to study the modules that
are most appropriate to your individual needs.
The modules may be delivered during the day
or in the evenings and may be delivered as
short intensive courses or spread over a period
of time allowing you to study when it is most
convenient to you. It is expected that you will
complete this course in 12 months, however,
this is not mandatory. You may take up to five
years to complete this course, giving additional
flexibility should your circumstances change.
How is my work assessed?
A range of assessment methods is used
throughout the course including continuous
assessment, in-class tests, examinations,
laboratory exercises and project work. Using
these methods, your all-round ability will be
appraised, thus providing you with the best
opportunity to excel.
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 6400
F: 0121 331 5401
E: course.enquiries@tic.ac.uk
W: www.tic.ac.uk
35
Section Three Courses Business and Management
Can I study further?
The course provides an introduction to higher
level study and also provides progression
opportunities for further study/qualifications
at foundation and/or degree level.
What are my employability prospects?
Continuing professional development is
essential either for those in employment
or those seeking employment. The ongoing
advancement of new technologies and
associated techniques makes the need to
update skills paramount in the quest for
career advancement.
• END
Things to note...
tic provides cutting-edge resources
and specialised knowledge structures
to meet the needs of a rapidly developing
technology-based society.
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
 Quality Management
36
PgCert/PgDip/MSc
PART-TIME 32 MONTHS
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Section Three Courses Business and Management
Getting started - what will I need?
See page 286 of the current prospectus for
standard entry requirements.
If you do not hold the standard entry
requirements you may be considered for
admission provided you can satisfy the course
director and relevant module tutors that your
qualifications and/or industrial experience
are sufficient.
Tell me more...
To be successful, organisations must
continually add value for their customers,
employees, shareholders and all parties that
have a stake in an organisation’s impact on its
markets. To achieve this, managers and their
teams need to recognise, use and improve
their quality systems and processes for adding
value and preventing loss faster than their
competitors. This innovative course meets
that need.
What will I study?
The course consists of four major modules and
the Master’s (MSc) project.
The successful completion of two modules
leads to the award of Postgraduate Certificate
(PgCert). Completion of two further modules
leads to the award of Postgraduate Diploma
(PgDip) and the completion of the project leads
to the MSc.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
The four modules are: Can I study further?
Resource Management: The tic can offer postgraduate research (MPhil
• Developing Human Capability and PhD) programmes, details can be found at
• Developing Financial Capability www.bcu.ac.uk/courses and on page 252 of the
• Developing Technology Capability current prospectus.
Integrated Project and Process Management: What are my employability prospects?
• Managing Projects Typical routes of employment that could follow
• Managing Operations this programme include:
• Marketplace Positioning • Quality management
• Manufacturing management
Business Centred Quality: • Customer service
• Strategic Quality • Supply chain management
• Management by Fact • END
• The Human Factor
Customer Centred Quality:
• The Consumer and Rights
• Managing External Interfaces
• Quality by Design
Master’s project
The MSc project provides an opportunity
to apply knowledge gained during study to
a substantial problem. This will test your
ability to integrate and utilise skills learnt
on the course.
How is my work assessed?
Project reports, record keeping and oral
presentations are used extensively for
assessment purposes as well as
time-constrained tests and other
approaches as appropriate.
How can I get more info? Things to note...
T: 0121 331 5200 tic is a national centre for excellence
F: 0121 331 6366 for technology-based, lifelong learning
E: business.school@bcu.ac.uk and business solutions, with specialist
W: www.business.bcu.ac.uk technologies for individuals and businesses.
Automotive Calibration and Control
PgCert/PgDip/MSc
PART-TIME 32 MONTHS
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Getting started - what will I need?
See page 286 of the current prospectus for
standard entry requirements.
If you do not hold the standard entry
requirements you may be considered for
admission provided you can satisfy the course
director and relevant module tutors that your
qualifications and/or industrial experience
are sufficient.
Tell me more...
The course is developed to support engineers
working within the areas of powertrain and
vehicle calibration in the automotive sector. It
provides a rigorous grounding in the application
of engine and vehicle development methods
and advanced computer simulation techniques.
What will I study?
The course consists of four major modules and
the Master’s (MSc) project.
The successful completion of two modules
leads to the award of Postgraduate Certificate
(PgCert). Completion of two further modules
leads to the award of Postgraduate Diploma
(PgDip) and the completion of the project leads
to the MSc.
The four modules are:
Engine Calibration and Control including:
Engine System Simulation, Engine Calibration
Fundamentals and Integrated Engine Systems.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
37
Section Three Courses Computing, IT and Software Engineering
Engine Management Systems including: What are my employability prospects?
Engine Sub-system Simulation, Engine System Although you will be typically employed in the
Interfaces and Engine Calibration Techniques. automotive industry, studying part-time offers
enhanced opportunities that could include
Vehicle Control Systems including: areas such as:
ABS and Traction Control Systems, • Powertrain development engineers in the
Active Suspension Control and Automatic automotive industry
Transmission Systems. • Design and performance engineer
• Research associate at PhD level
Advanced Control Strategies including: • END
Applied Digital Control, State-space Methods
and Non-linear Design.
Master’s project
The MSc project provides an opportunity
to apply knowledge gained during study to
a substantial problem. This will test your
ability to integrate and utilise skills learnt
on the course.
How is my work assessed?
Project reports, record keeping and oral
presentations are used extensively for
assessment purposes as well as time-
constrained tests and other approaches
as appropriate.
Can I study further?
The University can offer postgraduate research
(MPhil and PhD) programmes, details can be
found at www.bcu.ac.uk/courses and on
page 252 of the current prospectus.
How can I get more info? Things to note...
T: 0121 331 5595 tic has a specialist advanced automotive
F: 0121 331 7994 powertrain test cell.
E: choices@bcu.ac.uk
W: www.bcu.ac.uk/courses
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
 Computer Networks and Security
BSc (HONOURS)
38
PART-TIME 3-5 YEARS
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Section Three Courses Computing, IT and Software Engineering
Getting started - what will I need?
Applicants will be expected to have successfully
completed at least one of the following or an
equivalent qualification:
• Five GCSEs/GCEs with at least two GCE
A2 Levels or an AVCE double award, with
Mathematics, English Language and a
Science subject to at least GCSE grade C.
• Edexcel National Certificate/Diploma in
Computing, Science, Technology, Engineering
or Business, with a significant merit profile.
Mathematics, English Language and a
Science subject to at least GCSE grade C.
• Degree Foundation Certificate, Access to
Higher Education qualification, or equivalent.
• Mature applicants able to demonstrate
proficiency in Mathematics and written
English will be considered for entry to
this course.
This course can also be studied on a full-time
basis and as a sandwich degree.
Tell me more...
The course has been designed to produce
graduates with the capability to design,
implement and evaluate identification, data
capture and communications networks and
associated security protocols. Attention to
security will put you in the intriguing, richly
interesting and legally rewarding world
of coding, protocols, attack and defence
scenarios, technology and innovation, to a
level that provides attractive career prospects.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
What will I study?
The content and structure of the course cover
a broad mix of theory, application and practice
and comprises five themes:
Communication Networks – forms the essential
focus for the course and the framework
within which the other components of course
structure relate and support. It progresses
from basic network principles to advanced
networking technologies and associated
security needs.
Security Systems Theory – provides the
foundations and practical skills required for
developing protocols and effective security
systems. The theme takes a systematic
approach to understanding the agents of fraud,
malice, errors and mischance that raise the
demand for security systems.
Programming for Networks – provides
the software engineering and associated
programming skills for developing and
evaluating network and
communication systems.
Security Technologies – provides the
foundations for understanding the advantages
and vulnerabilities of technologies that are
applied for security protection purposes.
Business Management – directs attention at
the business and enterprise considerations
and the skills required for building effective
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 5595
F: 0121 331 7994
E: choices@bcu.ac.uk
W: www.bcu.ac.uk/courses
network and communications systems from
the business perspective.
The tic is one of Cisco Systems’ leading
International Academies. You will benefit
from the integration of the Cisco e-Learning
curriculum into appropriate courses,
allowing you to gain additional recognised
professional qualifications.
This degree is available as a sandwich award,
which includes a one year placement in industry
or commerce. It is also accredited by the
Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).
How is my work assessed?
A range of assessment methods is used
throughout the course including continuous
assessment, in-class tests, examinations,
laboratory exercises and project work. Using
these methods, your all-round ability will
be appraised providing you with the best
opportunity to excel.
Can I study further?
The University has a range of postgraduate
(MSc, MPhil and PhD) programmes, details
can be found at www.bcu.ac.uk/courses and
on page 252 of the current prospectus.
What are my employability prospects?
Graduates are able to specify, design and
manage computer networks and associated
applications to meet a company’s individual
security and business objectives.
• END
Things to note...
As you will be studying at one of Cisco
Systems’ leading international academies,
you can also obtain recognised professional
qualifications alongside your degree.
Computing and Electronics
BSc (HONOURS)
PART-TIME 3-5 YEARS
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Getting started - what will I need?
Applicants will be expected to have successfully
completed at least one of the following or an
equivalent qualification:
• Five GCSEs/GCEs with at least two GCE
A2 Levels or an AVCE double award, with
Mathematics, English Language and a
Science subject to at least GCSE grade C.
• Edexcel National Certificate/Diploma in
Computing, Science, Technology, Engineering
or Business, with a significant merit profile.
Mathematics, English Language and a
Science subject to at least GCSE grade C.
• Degree Foundation Certificate, Access to
Higher Education qualification, or equivalent.
• Mature applicants able to demonstrate
proficiency in Mathematics and written
English will be considered for entry to
this course.
This course can also be studied on a full-time
basis and as a sandwich degree.
Tell me more...
This course integrates the disciplines of
software engineering and digital electronics
through the study of embedded systems,
network communications and business
management, providing a broad mix of theory,
application and practice.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
What will I study?
The course comprises five themes:
• Digital Electronics
• Software Engineering
• Embedded Systems
• Communication Networks
• Business Management
The Digital Electronics and Embedded Systems
themes provide you with an understanding of
electronic and embedded systems design for
consumer and commercial applications. This
forms an essential focus for the course and
the framework for the other components of
the course.
Software Engineering is a major theme in which
you are taught software engineering skills to
complement the Embedded Electronics theme,
whilst the Communication Networks theme
focuses on the design of network systems.
This latter theme also includes the Cisco
CCNA curriculum.
Finally, the Business Management theme
places the course content in the context of
the current needs of commerce and industry,
enabling you to develop a good understanding
of business practice and organisation.
The University is one of Cisco Systems’ leading
International Academies. You will benefit
from the integration of the Cisco e-Learning
curriculum into appropriate courses,
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 5595
F: 0121 331 7994
E: choices@bcu.ac.uk
W: www.bcu.ac.uk/courses
39
Section Three Courses Computing, IT and Software Engineering
allowing you to gain additional recognised
professional qualifications.
This degree is available as a sandwich award,
which includes a one year placement in industry
or commerce. It is also accredited by the
Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).
How is my work assessed?
A range of assessment methods is used
throughout the course including continuous
assessment, in-class tests, examinations,
laboratory exercises and project work. Using
these methods, your all-round ability will
be appraised providing you with the best
opportunity to excel.
Can I study further?
The University has a range of postgraduate
(MSc, MPhil and PhD) programmes, details
can be found at www.bcu.ac.uk/courses and
on page 252 of the current prospectus.
What are my employability prospects?
Graduates from this course will be able to
apply their skills to a range of different
situations and contexts in both software and
electronics. They will have skills and knowledge
to specify, design, develop, implement and
maintain the hardware and software ICT
systems and applications that support our
technological society.
• END
Things to note...
tic has gained further Microsoft Certified
Partner status in the field of ‘information
worker status’.
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
 Data Communications
CERTIFICATE IN PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
40
PART-TIME VARIABLE
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Section Three Courses Computing, IT and Software Engineering
Getting started - what will I need?
Whilst there are no formal education entry
requirements for the course, a good general
education is necessary, particularly with
regard to literacy and numeracy. Mature
individuals with relevant experience may
also be eligible for entry following an
interview with the course director. Please
contact the tic on 0121 331 6400 to arrange
an informal discussion.
Tell me more...
This course provides a practical understanding of
communications principles and communication
systems. This course will benefit individuals
wishing to re-skill or update their knowledge
relating to communications and networking.
What will I study?
The course comprises four modules and two
half modules selected from the following:
• IP Telephony and VOIP Fundamentals
(half module)
• Network Security Fundamentals
(half module)
• Small Office Home Office Networking
(half module)
• Fundamentals of Data Communications
• Fundamentals of Wireless Networks
• Voice and Data Cabling
• Digital Communications
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
Delivery of the course is flexible and tends to What are my employability prospects?
be part-time or block delivery either during the Continuing professional development is
evening, weekend or outside normal term-time. essential either for those in employment or
Duration is variable depending on the mode of those seeking employment. The advance of new
delivery. Typically, it will be one academic year technologies and associated techniques makes
for a day-release student but no more than five the need to update skills paramount in the
years from enrolment. quest for job advancement.
• END
Course modules are scheduled to enable you
to select those appropriate to your individual
needs, thus permitting the programme to be
studied in either a short or extended time scale.
Attendance may be on-site at the University,
off-site at an approved venue or in-company
when required.
How is my work assessed?
A range of assessment methods is used
throughout the course including continuous
assessment, in-class tests, examinations,
laboratory exercises and project work. Using
these methods, your all-round ability will be
appraised, thus providing you with the best
opportunity to excel.
Can I study further?
The course provides an introduction to higher
level study and also provides progression
opportunities for further study/qualifications
at foundation and/or degree level.
How can I get more info? Things to note...
T: 0121 331 5595 tic has forged powerful partnerships with
F: 0121 331 7994 leading global technology companies. This
E: choices@bcu.ac.uk ensures courses are vocationally focused
W: www.bcu.ac.uk/courses and up-to-date developing skills that are
of immediate benefit to the workplace.
Data Networks and Security
PgCert/PgDip/MSc
FULL-TIME 16/19 MONTHS | PART-TIME 32 MONTHS
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Getting started - what will I need?
See page 286 of the current prospectus for
standard entry requirements.
If you do not hold the standard entry
requirements you may be considered for
admission provided you can satisfy the course
director and relevant module tutors that your
qualifications and/or industrial experience
are sufficient.
Tell me more...
This advanced course in Data Networks and
Security is aimed at graduates, experienced
network professionals or software engineers who
wish to update their skills in secure networking.
The Cisco academy CCNP curriculum will be
undertaken as part of this course.
What will I study?
The course consists of four major modules and
the Master’s (MSc) project.
The successful completion of two modules
leads to the award of Postgraduate Certificate
(PgCert). Completion of two further modules
leads to the award of Postgraduate Diploma
(PgDip) and the completion of the project leads
to the MSc.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
The four modules are:
Design of Communications Systems I:
The module covers the design, configuration
and deployment of networking devices, routers
and switches, within Local Area Networks
(LANs) and Wide Area Networks (WANs).
Design of Communications Systems II:
This module is concerned with the design and
implementation of remote access networks and
multilayer switched networks.
Network Security Systems:
This provides the necessary knowledge and
hands-on experience in networking security
techniques, encryption techniques (DES, RSA,
hashing algorithms, etc.) as well as the design
and implementation of VPN systems.
Management of Network Services:
This module covers systems management,
network security techniques, network design
and modelling.
Master’s project
The MSc project provides an opportunity
to apply knowledge gained during study to
a substantial problem. This will test your
ability to integrate and utilise skills learnt
on the course.
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 5595
F: 0121 331 7994
E: choices@bcu.ac.uk
W: www.bcu.ac.uk/courses
41
Section Three Courses Computing, IT and Software Engineering
How is my work assessed?
Assessment can include practical work,
individual written coursework, group
presentations, viva voce, individual and
group reports and practical assessments
as well as closed and open book time-
constrained examinations.
Can I study further?
The University can offer postgraduate research
(MPhil and PhD) programmes, details can be
found at www.bcu.ac.uk/courses and on
page 252 of the current prospectus.
What are my employability prospects?
The MSc in Data Networks and Security will
provide you with the expertise and knowledge
required for the specification, design,
implementation and management of secure
communications systems.
Typical routes of employment that could lead
from this programme include:
• Network Designer
• Network Manager
• Network Security, Simulation and Management
• Data Network Engineer
• END
Things to note...
Almost all of our courses are supported
by Moodle, the University’s ‘virtual
learning environment’
 Information and Communications Technology
BSc (HONOURS)
42
PART-TIME 3-5 YEARS
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Section Three Courses Computing, IT and Software Engineering
Getting started - what will I need?
Applicants will be expected to have successfully
completed at least one of the following or an
equivalent qualification:
• Five GCSEs/GCEs with at least two GCE
A2 Levels or an AVCE double award, with
Mathematics, English Language and a
Science subject to at least GCSE grade C.
• Edexcel National Certificate/Diploma in
Computing, Science, Technology, Engineering
or Business, with a significant merit profile
with Mathematics, English Language and a
Science subject to at least GCSE grade C.
• Degree Foundation Certificate, Access to
Higher Education qualification, or equivalent.
• Mature applicants able to demonstrate
proficiency in Mathematics and written
English will be considered for entry to
this course.
This course can also be studied on a full-time
basis and as a sandwich degree.
Tell me more...
Information and Communications Technology
(ICT) continues to revolutionise almost every
aspect of global business and our own daily
lives, changing the way we work, communicate
and interact. This course has been designed
to develop knowledge and skills in information
transfer and data warehousing, network
communications technology and network
operating systems in a business context
relevant to the ICT industry.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
What will I study?
The course comprises five themes:
Network Operating Systems – provides
the knowledge and skills required to plan,
configure, deploy, support and manage
computer operating systems. Covers systems
from stand-alone to several thousand user
desktops and servers networked over large
geographical locations. This theme includes
the Microsoft MCSA curriculum.
Application Design – provides software skills
necessary to specify, write and implement
graphical user interfaces (GUI), using object-
oriented programming techniques. The theme
focuses on emerging technologies for web-
based services to facilitate interoperability
using platform independent hardware
and software.
Information Transfer Technologies – provides
an in-depth knowledge and understanding of
developing traditional business and web-
based robust applications. You will gain
an understanding of websites as a virtual
business, database systems and e-commerce
technology and strategy.
Communication Networks – focuses on the
design of network systems and includes the
Cisco CCNA curriculum. This theme progresses
from basic network principles to advanced
networking technologies and associated
security needs.
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 5595
F: 0121 331 7994
E: choices@bcu.ac.uk
W: www.bcu.ac.uk/courses
Business Management – acquaints you with the
importance of modern business organisation and
structure necessary to support and develop
innovative business strategies. The tic is one of
Cisco Systems’ leading International Academies.
You will benefit from the integration of the
Cisco e-Learning curriculum into appropriate
courses, allowing you to gain additional
recognised professional qualifications.
This degree is available as a sandwich award,
which includes a one year placement in industry
or commerce. It is also accredited by the
Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).
How is my work assessed?
A range of assessment methods is used
throughout the course including continuous
assessment, in-class tests, examinations,
laboratory exercises and project work. Using
these methods, your all-round ability will
be appraised providing you with the best
opportunity to excel.
Can I study further?
The University has a range of postgraduate
(MSc, MPhil and PhD) programmes, details
can be found at www.bcu.ac.uk/courses and
on page 252 of the current prospectus.
What are my employability prospects?
Graduates are able to specify, design
and manage ICT systems and associated
applications to meet a company’s
business objectives.
• END
Things to note...
Birmingham is a fabulous place to live
and study. See pages 264-265 in the
current prospectus for more information
on what is on offer.
Software Design and Networks
BSc (HONOURS)
PART-TIME 3-5 YEARS
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Getting started - what will I need?
Applicants will be expected to have successfully
completed at least one of the following or an
equivalent qualification:
• Five GCSEs/GCEs with at least two GCE
A2 Levels or an AVCE double award, with
Mathematics, English Language and a
Science subject to at least GCSE grade C.
• Edexcel National Certificate/Diploma in
Computing, Science, Technology, Engineering
or Business with a significant merit profile,
with Mathematics, English Language and a
Science subject to at least GCSE grade C.
• Degree Foundation Certificate, Access to
Higher Education qualification, or equivalent.
• Mature applicants able to demonstrate
proficiency in Mathematics and written
English will be considered for entry to
this course.
This course can also be studied on a full-time
basis and as a sandwich degree.
Tell me more...
This course has been designed to produce
multi-skilled professionals who can integrate
aspects of software technology and client/
server network communications in both
digital and traditional business environments.
The course incorporates software realisation,
including Windows programming, network
operating systems and network
communications.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
What will I study?
The course provides a broad mix of theory,
application and practical hands-on experience.
It comprises five themes:
Network Operating Systems – Develops the
skills required to plan, configure, deploy,
support and manage computer operating
systems, from stand-alone systems to
several thousand user desktops and servers,
networked over large geographical locations.
It also includes the Microsoft MSCA curriculum.
Software Engineering – introduces the
techniques necessary to develop applications
to a given specification and provides an
in-depth understanding of the software
development life-cycle.
Programming for Networks – provides in-depth
knowledge and understanding in developing
software to communicate across computer
networks. It also introduces the concept of
object-oriented programming using JAVA to
build platform independent applications.
Communications Networks – provides a focus
on the design of network systems and includes
the Cisco CCNA curriculum. It progresses
from basic network principles to advanced
networking technologies and associated
security needs.
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 5595
F: 0121 331 7994
E: choices@bcu.ac.uk
W: www.bcu.ac.uk/courses
43
Section Three Courses Computing, IT and Software Engineering
Business Management – acquaints you with
the business organisation and structure
necessary to support and develop innovative
business strategies.
The course also offers the opportunity to attain
the following professional qualifications:
• MCSA – Microsoft Certified
Systems Administrator
• CCNA – Cisco Certified Network Associate
• MCDST – Microsoft Certified Desktop
Support Technician
The tic is one of Cisco Systems’ leading
International Academies. You will benefit
from the integration of the Cisco e-Learning
curriculum into appropriate courses,
allowing you to gain additional recognised
professional qualifications.
This degree is available as a sandwich award,
which includes a one year placement in
industry or commerce. It is also accredited
by the Institution of Engineering and
Technology (IET).
How is my work assessed?
A range of assessment methods is used
throughout the course including continuous
assessment, in-class tests, examinations,
laboratory exercises and project work. Using
these methods, your all-round ability will
be appraised providing you with the best
opportunity to excel.
Things to note...
You can gain recognised professional
qualifications from Microsoft and Cisco
Systems alongside your degree.
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
 Can I study further?
The University has a range of postgraduate
programmes. See www.bcu.ac.uk /courses
44

What are my employability prospects?

Typical routes of employment that could lead
from this programme include:
Section Three Courses Computing, IT and Software Engineering

• Providing technical, software or applications

support or training.
• Providing network support and management.
• Specifying, designing or implementing
software systems or applications.
• IT professionals responsible for planning,
implementation, management and support
of PC operating systems.
• END

Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk

Software Development and Security
PgCert/PgDip/MSc
FULL-TIME 16/19 MONTHS | PART-TIME 32 MONTHS
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Getting started - what will I need?
See page 286 of the current prospectus for
standard entry requirements.
If you do not hold the standard entry
requirements you may be considered for
admission provided you can satisfy the course
director and relevant module tutors that your
qualifications and/or industrial experience
are sufficient.
Tell me more...
The course is aimed at graduates and
experienced software developers who wish
to gain theoretical and practical skills in
developing secure applications. Furthermore,
it introduces industry recognised certification
routes including the Microsoft and Sun
Microsystems curricula.
What will I study?
The course consists of four major modules
and the Master’s (MSc) project.
The successful completion of two modules
leads to the award of Postgraduate Certificate
(PgCert). Completion of two further modules
leads to the award of Postgraduate Diploma
(PgDip) and the completion of the project leads
to the MSc.
The four modules are:
Information Systems Development Techniques:
Topics of study include structured systems
development, data modelling and database
design and advanced database techniques.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
45
Section Three Courses Computing, IT and Software Engineering
Object Oriented Applications Development: What are my employability prospects?
Topics of study include techniques for object The course will provide you with the expertise
oriented analysis and design, object oriented and knowledge required for the specification,
programming, comparison of deployment design, implementation and maintenance of
platforms and software architectures. secure software applications.
Distributed Applications Development: Typical routes of employment are:
Topics of study include networked and remote • Application developer
application environments, client-server • Systems security specialist
application development and deployment • Software architect
strategies, web applications and web services. • Software engineer
• END
Building Secure Applications:
Topics of study include programming in
a secure manner, encryption, decryption,
hardware-based security and authentication.
Master’s project
The MSc project provides an opportunity
to apply knowledge gained during study to
a substantial problem. This will test your
ability to integrate and utilise skills learnt
on the course.
How is my work assessed?
Assessment includes practical work, individual
written coursework, individual and group
presentations, viva voce, individual and group
reports, practical assessments and open and
closed book time-constrained examinations.
Can I study further?
The University can offer postgraduate research
(MPhil and PhD) programmes, details can be
found at www.bcu.ac.uk/courses and on page
252 of the current prospectus.
How can I get more info? Things to note...
T: 0121 331 5595 tic and national training specialists QM&T,
F: 0121 331 7994 have been jointly awarded ‘Best Education
E: choices@bcu.ac.uk Centre’ by the Chartered Institute of Quality.
W: www.bcu.ac.uk/courses
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
 Computer Networks for Business
BSc (HONOURS)
46
PART-TIME 3-5 YEARS
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Section Three Courses Computing, IT and Software Engineering
Getting started - what will I need?
Applicants will be expected to have successfully
completed at least one of the following or an
equivalent qualification:
• Five GCSEs/GCEs with at least two GCE
A2 Levels or an AVCE double award, with
Mathematics, English Language and a
Science subject to at least GCSE grade C.
• Edexcel National Certificate/Diploma in
Computing, Science, Technology, Engineering
or Business, with a significant merit profile.
Mathematics, English Language and a
Science subject to at least GCSE grade C.
• Degree Foundation Certificate, Access to
Higher Education qualification, or equivalent.
• Mature applicants able to demonstrate
proficiency in Mathematics and written
English will be considered for entry to
this course.
This course can also be studied on a full time
basis and as a sandwich degree.
Tell me more...
New developments in the form of the internet
and new digital technologies are creating
enormous commercial opportunities, with
computer network systems and their associated
applications regarded as key components for
future business success. This course has been
created to produce graduates who are able to
specify, design and manage computer networks
and associated applications with the business
objectives of companies in mind.
What will I study?
The content and structure of the course covers
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
a broad mix of theory, application and practice
and comprises five themes:
Communication Networks – forms the essential
focus for the course and the framework within
which the other components of the course
structure relate and support. It focuses on the
design of network systems and includes the
Cisco CCNA curriculum.
Business Management – places the course in
context with the current needs of commerce
and industry. It also develops business
competence and provides an essential range of
core skills to enable you to become an effective
communicator and have a good understanding
of business practice and organisation.
e-Business Technologies – utilises modern
technologies that facilitate the flow of
information within an organisation and
to external clients and hence provide the
management team with essential information.
Information Transfer Technologies
– are essential features of any competitive
organisation in the modern technologically-
aware world and provide an understanding
of database applications and e-commerce
technology and strategy.
Programming for Networks – introduces the
.NET philosophy as a platform to position and
apply appropriate programming languages
to enable you to develop, evaluate and adapt
solutions for the provision of networked systems.
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 5595
F: 0121 331 7994
E: choices@bcu.ac.uk
W: www.bcu.ac.uk/courses
The tic is one of Cisco Systems’ leading
International Academies. You will benefit
from the integration of the Cisco e-Learning
curriculum into appropriate courses,
allowing you to gain additional recognised
professional qualifications.
This degree is available as a sandwich
award, which includes a one year placement
in industry or commerce. It is also accredited
by the Institution of Engineering and
Technology (IET).
How is my work assessed?
A range of assessment methods is used
throughout the course including continuous
assessment, in-class tests, examinations,
laboratory exercises and project work. Using
these methods, your all-round ability will
be appraised providing you with the best
opportunity to excel.
Can I study further?
The University has a range of postgraduate
(MSc, MPhil and PhD) programmes, details
can be found at www.bcu.ac.uk/courses and
on page 252 of the current prospectus.
What are my employability prospects?
Successful completion of the course will
provide you with the ability to specify,
design and manage computer networks and
associated applications to meet a company’s
individual security and business objectives.
• END
Things to note...
You can find out about our open days
by visiting www.tic.bcu.ac.uk
Developing Systems Using Microsoft.net
CERTIFICATE IN PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
PART-TIME 1 YEAR
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Getting started - what will I need?
Whilst there are no formal education entry
requirements for the course, a good general
education is necessary, particularly with regard
to literacy and numeracy. Mature individuals
with relevant experience may also be eligible
for entry following an interview with the course
director. Please contact the tic on 0121 331
6400 to arrange an informal discussion.
Tell me more...
This course provides you with the practical
understanding, knowledge and skills to design
and develop software applications using the
.NET framework. It is useful to both those with
little or no experience and developers looking
to acquire programming skills in VB.NET, ASP.
NET and XML.
What will I study?
The .NET framework has rapidly established
itself as a vital tool for developing windows and
web-based applications. The aim of the course
is to enable you to gain an understanding of
the fundamental principles, tools and methods
used in developing object-oriented software
applications using Microsoft .NET framework.
The course will provide you with a theoretical
knowledge and hands-on practical skills in
the design, development and testing of
software applications.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
A total of five optional modules or equivalent
must be studied to successfully complete the
course. These can be selected from:
• Introduction to UML
• Introduction to Web Services
• Introduction to XML
• Introduction to ASP.NET
• Introduction to VB.NET
• Introduction to Programming for Games
• Database Programming
• Cyber Security
• Further ASP.NET and XML
• Networking for Administrators
• Single Project
This course has flexible delivery and content
options allowing you to study the modules that
are most appropriate to you. The modules may
be delivered during the day or in the evenings
and may also be delivered as short
intensive courses.
How is my work assessed?
A range of assessment methods is used
throughout the course including continuous
assessment, in-class tests, examinations,
laboratory exercises and project work. Using
these methods, your all-round ability will be
appraised, thus providing you with the best
opportunity to excel.
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 6400
F: 0121 331 5401
E: course.enquiries@tic.ac.uk
W: www.tic.ac.uk
47
Section Three Courses Computing, IT and Software Engineering
Can I study further?
The course provides an introduction to higher
level study and also provides progression
opportunities for further study/qualifications
at foundation and/or degree level.
What are my employability prospects?
Continuing professional development is
essential either for those in employment
or those seeking employment. The ongoing
advancement of new technologies and
associated techniques makes the need to
update skills paramount in the quest for
career progression.
• END
Things to note...
tic uniquely integrates learning programmes
with solutions for business, employing
some 300 staff, with over a third working
directly on knowledge and technology
transfer programmes with industry.
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
 Developing Systems Using Open Source*
CERTIFICATE IN PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
48
PART-TIME 1 YEAR
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Section Three Courses Computing, IT and Software Engineering
Getting started - what will I need?
Whilst there are no formal educational entry
requirements for the course, a good level of
general education is necessary, particularly
with regard to literacy and numeracy. Mature
individuals with relevant experience, and who
may have had a lengthy break from study
might also be eligible for entry following an
interview with the course director. Please
contact the tic on 0121 331 6400 to arrange
an informal discussion.
Tell me more...
This course provides you with a practical
understanding, knowledge and skills to design
and develop platform independent software
applications. It is useful to both those with
little or no experience and developers looking
to acquire skills in the LAMP (Linux, Apache,
MySQL, PHP) technology stack.
What will I study?
Open Source technologies have made a
significant impact on reducing the costs of
developing and deploying software applications
for business, commerce and industry in the
21st Century. Open Source technology has
firmly established itself as a cost-effective
technology for developing desktop and
web-based applications.
The aim of the course is to enable you to
gain an understanding of the fundamental
principles, tools and methods used in
developing software applications using Open
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
Source technology such as Linux, Apache,
Java and MySQL among others. The course
will provide you with a theoretical knowledge
and hands-on practical skills in the design,
development of Open Source applications.
Indicative course content is as follows:
• Linux/Unix Operating System
• Object-oriented Programming Methodology
• Apache
• MySQL
• PHP/Pearl
• CGI
• Java Programming and J2EE
• AJAX
• Web Applications
• XML
• XML Schema, XSLT and XPath
• Soap, WSDL and UDDI
• Web Services
To achieve the CPS qualification, you will
complete the equivalent of five full modules
from a range of full and half-modules which
you can choose from to meet your specific
individual needs. This course has flexible
delivery and content options allowing you
to study the modules which are most
appropriate to your individual needs. The
modules may be delivered during the day
or in the evenings and may also be delivered
as short intensive courses.
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 6400
F: 0121 331 5401
E: course.enquiries@tic.ac.uk
W: www.tic.ac.uk
How is my work assessed?
A range of assessment methods is used
throughout the course including continuous
assessment, in-class tests, examinations,
laboratory exercises and project work. Using
these methods, your all-round ability will be
appraised, thus providing you with the best
opportunity to excel.
Can I study further?
The course provides an introduction to higher
level study and also provides progression
opportunities for further study/qualifications
at foundation and/or degree level.
What are my employability prospects?
Continuing professional development is
essential either for those in employment
or those seeking employment. The ongoing
advance of new technologies and associated
techniques makes the need to update
skills paramount in the quest for
career advancement.
• END
*Subject to validation
Things to note...
tic uniquely integrates learning programmes
with solutions for business, employing
some 300 staff, with over a third working
directly on knowledge and technology
transfer programmes with industry.
e-Technologies
CERTIFICATE IN PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
PART-TIME 1 YEAR
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Getting started - what will I need?
Whilst there are no formal education entry
requirements for the course, a good general
education is necessary, particularly with regard
to literacy and numeracy. Mature individuals
with relevant experience may also be eligible
for entry following an interview with the course
director. Please contact the tic on 0121 331
6400 to arrange an informal discussion.
Tell me more...
This course provides practical understanding,
knowledge and skills in a range of ICT areas
appropriate for knowledge or information
workers and those involved in the use the
Internet. It covers a wide range of areas,
including making the best use of the Internet and
how web-based applications support end users.
If you have an interest in e-technology or use
it as part of your work and want to develop
your expertise, this course is for you. Keeping
your skills up to date is becoming increasingly
important as technologies change and develop.
What will I study?
This course consists of one core half module
selected from:
• eApplications for Information Workers
• ePresence using Microsoft Technology
• ICT for eSociety
• Using eCommerce Solutions
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
A further four and a half optional modules
or equivalent must be studied to successfully
complete the course. These can be
selected from:
• Collaborative Technologies
• Introduction to Website Design and Production
• Operating Systems
• Sustainable ICT
• Technologies for eLearning
• Using eCommerce Solutions
• Introduction to ICT
• Single Project
The following modules can be taken if they
are not chosen as a core module:
• eApplications for Information Workers
• ePresence using Microsoft Technology
• ICT for eSociety
• Using eCommerce Solutions
The modules can be delivered during the day
or evening and as short, intensive courses or
spread over a period of time. This allows you
to study when it is most convenient for you. It
is expected that you will complete this course
in 12 months; however, this is not mandatory.
You may take up to five years to complete this
course, giving additional flexibility should your
circumstances change.
How is my work assessed?
A range of assessment methods is used
throughout the course including continuous
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 6400
F: 0121 331 5401
E: course.enquiries@tic.ac.uk
W: www.tic.ac.uk
49
Section Three Courses Computing, IT and Software Engineering
assessment, in-class tests, examinations,
laboratory exercises and project work. Using
these methods, your all-round ability will be
appraised, thus providing you with the best
opportunity to excel.
Can I study further?
The course provides an introduction to higher
level study and also provides progression
opportunities for further study/qualifications
at foundation and/or degree level.
What are my employability prospects?
Continuing professional development is
essential either for those in employment
or those seeking employment. The ongoing
advancement of new technologies and
associated techniques makes the need to
update skills paramount in the quest for
career progression.
• END
Things to note...
Among its 2,500 student population
is a substantial and growing number
of international students.
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
 Game Technologies
CERTIFICATE IN PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
50
PART-TIME 1 YEAR
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Section Three Courses Computing, IT and Software Engineering
Getting started - what will I need?
Whilst there are no formal education entry
requirements for the course, a good general
education is necessary, particularly with regard
to literacy and numeracy. Mature individuals
with relevant experience may also be eligible
for entry following an interview with the course
director. Please contact the tic on 0121 331
6400 to arrange an informal discussion.
Tell me more...
This course will give you the opportunity to
explore and work with a range of theoretical
concepts and practical technologies all of which
are involved in computer game programming,
game console and hardware system design.
You will learn how to generate game ideas,
how to programme games and provide you
with practical knowledge of electronics which
can be used to develop your own computer
game console.
What will I study?
The topics in this course are designed to cover
the fundamental knowledge and skills that are
required to develop theoretical game concepts,
practical computer games, their consoles and
associated hardware. An important aspect of
game development is an understanding of the
processes that are involved in their creation.
This course will encourage you to develop
these skills. Apart from acquiring theoretical
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
knowledge you will also be involved in practical
game development. This will include being
taught the basics of computer programming
before learning more advanced programming
skills which are essential for 2D and 3D
game development.
This course also provides the opportunity to
study other aspects of game development.
This might include an introduction to practical
electronics where you will design and create
your own game console. Alternatively you may
be interested in how games are being used to
teach and train either by using simulations,
educational or serious games. Overall this
course provides you with a range of skills,
technologies and experiences that can be
used to develop computer games and
game consoles.
This course consists of three core modules
– Games Development Theory, Introduction
to 2D Game Programming and Introduction
to Programming for Games. A further two
optional modules must be studied to
successfully complete the course. These
can be selected from:
• Developing 3D Games
• Fundamentals of Game Console Design 3
• Introduction to 3D Game Programming
with Microsoft XNA Game Studio
• Serious Games
• Single Project
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 6400
F: 0121 331 5401
E: course.enquiries@tic.ac.uk
W: www.tic.ac.uk
How is my work assessed?
A range of assessment methods is used
throughout the course including continuous
assessment, in-class tests, examinations,
laboratory exercises and project work. Using
these methods, your all-round ability will be
appraised, thus providing you with the best
opportunity to excel.
Can I study further?
The course provides an introduction to higher
level study and also provides progression
opportunities for further study/qualifications
at foundation and/or degree level.
What are my employability prospects?
Continuing professional development is
essential either for those in employment
or those seeking employment. The ongoing
advancement of new technologies and
associated techniques makes the need to
update skills paramount in the quest for
career progression.
• END
Things to note...
You can speak to one of our course
advisors if you are unsure of the right
course for you. Call 0121 331 5595 for
more information.
Network Administration
CERTIFICATE IN PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
PART-TIME 1 YEAR
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Getting started - what will I need?
Whilst there are no formal education entry
requirements for the course, a good general
education is necessary, particularly with regard
to literacy and numeracy. Mature individuals
with relevant experience may also be eligible
for entry following an interview with the course
director. Please contact the tic on 0121 331
6400 to arrange an informal discussion.
Tell me more...
This course provides practical understanding,
knowledge and skills in managing computers
in a network environment. It covers client
computer support and the management
of Windows-based severs and includes the
curriculum for the core exams of the
Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator
(MCSA) qualification.
What will I study?
Aimed primarily at those who currently work
in a business network support environment,
this course is particularly appropriate for
individuals who wish to update their skills for
career progression. It is also appropriate for
those who would like to move into a network
support role. It covers the support of client
computers and the administration of
Windows-based servers.
This course consists of one core module
selected from either Active Directory or
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
Network Infrastructure. A further four modules
or equivalent must be studied to successfully
complete the course. These can be
selected from:
• Active Directory
• Networking for Administrators
• Open Source Operating System
• Server Security
• Windows Client Operating System
• Windows Server Operating System
• Essentials of ICT support
This course has flexible delivery and content
options allowing you to study the modules that
are most appropriate to your individual needs.
The modules may be delivered during the day
or in the evenings and may be delivered as
short intensive courses or spread over a period
of time allowing you to study when it is most
convenient to you. It is expected that you will
complete this course in 12 months, however,
this is not mandatory.
You make take up to five years to complete this
course, giving additional flexibility should your
circumstances change.
How is my work assessed?
A range of assessment methods is used
throughout the course including continuous
assessment, in-class tests, examinations,
laboratory exercises and project work. Using
these methods, your all-round ability will be
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 6400
F: 0121 331 5401
E: course.enquiries@tic.ac.uk
W: www.tic.ac.uk
51
Section Three Courses Computing, IT and Software Engineering
appraised, thus providing you with the best
opportunity to excel.
Can I study further?
The course provides an introduction to higher
level study and also provides progression
opportunities for further study/qualifications
at foundation and/or degree level.
What are my employability prospects?
Continuing professional development is
essential either for those in employment
or those seeking employment. The ongoing
advancement of new technologies and
associated techniques makes the need to
update skills paramount in the quest for
career progression.
• END
Things to note...
tic is located at Millennium Point in the
heart of Birmingham city centre. This
£114m development provides some of the
best resources and facilities in the country.
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
 Networking Technologies

CERTIFICATE IN PROFESSIONAL STUDIES

52

PART-TIME VARIABLE
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Section Three Courses Computing, IT and Software Engineering

Getting started - what will I need?
Whilst there are no formal education entry
requirements for the course, a good general
education is necessary, particularly with regard
to literacy and numeracy. Mature individuals
with relevant experience may also be eligible
for entry following an interview with the course
director. Please contact the tic on 0121 331
6400 to arrange an informal discussion.
Tell me more...
Rapid developments in computer networking
have opened up enormous commercial
opportunities and increased the demand for
professionals who can plan and implement
computer networks. This course will equip
you with a range of knowledge and skills in
networking applications and prepare you for
the Cisco CCNA certification exam.
complete the course. These can be
studied from:
• Networking for Home and Small Businesses
• Working at a Small-to-Medium Business or ISP
• Introduction to Routing and Switching in
the Enterprise
• Designing and Supporting Customer Networks
• IT Essentials Hardware and Software
• Network Security Basics
• Open Source Operating System
• Essentials of ICT Support
These modules will provide necessary
foundations in allowing to plan and install home
and small business networks, troubleshoot and
recognise and mitigate security threats. You
will develop the knowledge and skills to enable
you to implement a LAN, WAN and VLAN for an
enterprise network design with basic security.
Can I study further?
The course provides an introduction to higher
level study and also provides progression
opportunities for further study/qualifications
at foundation and/or degree level.
What are my employability prospects?
Continuing professional development is
essential either for those in employment
or those seeking employment. The ongoing
advancement of new technologies and
associated techniques makes the need to
update skills paramount in the quest for
career progression.
• END

What will I study? How is my work assessed?

This course is a hands-on study of basic
networking technologies and principles, for
the home and small office.
A total of five optional modules or equivalent
must be studied in order to successfully
A range of assessment methods is used
throughout the course including continuous
assessment, in-class tests, examinations,
laboratory exercises and project work. Using
these methods, your all-round ability will be
appraised, thus providing you with the best
opportunity to excel.

How do I apply? How can I get more info? Things to note...

Direct to Faculty T: 0121 331 6400 tic is an integrated centre for learning
F: 0121 331 5401 and business support, with unique expertise
E: course.enquiries@tic.ac.uk in the development of skills in both individuals
W: www.tic.ac.uk and across entire organisations.

Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk

Network Administration
DIPLOMA IN PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
PART-TIME VARIABLE
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Getting started - what will I need?
Whilst there are no formal education entry
requirements for the course, a good general
education is necessary, particularly with regard
to literacy and numeracy. Mature individuals
with relevant experience may also be eligible
for entry following an interview with the course
director. Please contact the tic on 0121 331
6400 to arrange an informal discussion.
Tell me more...
This course provides an advanced
understanding, knowledge and skills in
managing computers in a business network
environment. It includes the curriculum for
the core exams of the Microsoft Certified
Systems Engineer (MCSE) qualification.
What will I study?
This course is aimed at people who work in a
business network support environment, who
wish to develop their technical skills to an
advanced level to progress their careers. It
is assumed that applicants will have already
achieved the technical knowledge, skills and
understanding of network administration
equivalent to the Microsoft Certified System
Administrator (MCSA) qualification. The course
covers advanced concepts of network design
and implementation.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
The course consists of one core module
selected from either:
• Enterprise Directory Design or
• Enterprise Infrastructure Design
A further four optional modules or equivalent
must be studied to successfully complete the
course. These can be studied from:
• Server Essentials
• Application Infrastructure
• Collaborative Technology Server
• Internet Security and Acceleration
• Mail Server
• Open Source Server Administration
This course has flexible delivery and content
options allowing you to study the modules that
are most appropriate to your individual needs.
The modules may be delivered during the day
or in the evenings and may be delivered as
short intensive courses or spread over a period
of time allowing you to study when it is most
convenient to you. It is expected that you will
complete this course in 12 months, however,
this is not mandatory. You make take up to five
years to complete this course, giving additional
flexibility should your circumstances change.
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 6400
F: 0121 331 5401
E: course.enquiries@tic.ac.uk
W: www.tic.ac.uk
53
Section Three Courses Computing, IT and Software Engineering
How is my work assessed?
A range of assessment methods is used
throughout the course including continuous
assessment, in-class tests, examinations,
laboratory exercises and project work. Using
these methods, your all-round ability will be
appraised, thus providing you with the best
opportunity to excel.
Can I study further?
The course provides an introduction to higher
level study and also provides progression
opportunities for further study/qualifications
at foundation and/or degree level.
What are my employability prospects?
Continuing professional development is
essential either for those in employment
or those seeking employment. The ongoing
advancement of new technologies and
associated techniques makes the need to
update skills paramount in the quest for
career progression.
• END
Things to note...
tic provides cutting-edge resources and
specialist knowledge structures to meet
the needs of a rapidly developing
technology-based society.
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
 Networking Technologies*
54
DIPLOMA IN PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
PART-TIME VARIABLE
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Section Three Courses Computing, IT and Software Engineering
Getting started - what will I need?
Whilst there are no formal education entry
requirements for the course, a good general
education is necessary, particularly with regard
to literacy and numeracy. Mature individuals
with relevant experience may also be eligible
for entry following an interview with the course
director. Please contact the tic on 0121 331
6400 to arrange an informal discussion.
Tell me more...
Advances and convergence of technology
in computer networking have opened up
enormous challenges in the commercial
and public sectors, with a demand for highly
qualified professionals, who can plan and
implement complex computer networks. The
course will equip you with a range of knowledge
and skills specifically designed at networking
applications and will be based on advanced
networking technologies.
What will I study?
This Diploma in Professional Studies (DPS)
combines a study of advanced networking
technologies and principles, for enterprise
networks, with a strong emphasis on a hands-
on approach to acquiring essential networking
skills for efficient and expandable networks.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
The course consists of five optional modules
selected from:
• Accessing the WAN
• Digital Home Technology Integrator Plus
• Fundamentals of Wireless Networks
• Internet Security and acceleration
• LAN Switching and Wireless
• Open Source Server
• Routing Protocols and Concepts
• Server Essentials
These modules will provide the necessary
knowledge to plan, install and troubleshoot
converged local and wide area networks. You
will develop the knowledge to enable you
to manage a network, as well as integrate
specialist broadband applications into a
network, such as voice, wireless and security.
How is my work assessed?
A range of assessment methods is used
throughout the course including continuous
assessment, in-class tests, examinations,
laboratory exercises and project work. Using
these methods, your all-round ability will be
appraised, thus providing you with the best
opportunity to excel.
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 6400
F: 0121 331 5401
E: course.enquiries@tic.ac.uk
W: www.tic.ac.uk
Can I study further?
The course provides an introduction to higher
level study and also provides progression
opportunities for further study/qualifications
at foundation and/or degree level.
What are my employability prospects?
Continuing professional development is
essential either for those in employment
or those seeking employment. The ongoing
advancement of new technologies and
associated techniques makes the need to
update skills paramount in the quest for
career progression.
• END
*Subject to validation
Things to note...
tic and national training specialists QM&T,
have been jointly awarded ‘Best Education
Centre’ by the Chartered Institute of Quality.
Criminology / Criminology and Policing /
Criminology and Security Studies / Criminology and Sociology
BA (HONOURS)
FULL-TIME 3 YEARS | PART-TIME 5 YEARS
EDUCATION, LAW AND SOCIAL SCIENCES | CITY NORTH CAMPUS
> Tariff 240
Getting started - what will I need?
• You will be expected to have successfully
completed a minimum of two subjects at
A2 Level, two 6 units or one 12 unit AVCE.
Remaining points can be made up with
AS qualifications.
• Applicants with BTEC National/Higher
National level qualifications or from Access
courses will be considered.
• Mature applicants with non-standard or
Access to Higher Education qualifications
are encouraged to apply.
• Entry at an advanced stage of the course with
credit for prior learning or experience may be
considered on an individual basis.
Tell me more...
These degrees are designed to offer in-depth
study of the Criminal Justice System (CJS) of
England and Wales. They highlight some of the
major political debates on law and order and
provide insight into some of the difficulties and
challenges faced by the main agencies
of criminology.
The courses are designed to equip you with a
range of academic and analytical skills, which
will be valuable in a wide range of careers.
They will also be of direct relevance if you wish
to establish a career within the CJS or pursue
further academic study at postgraduate level.
How do I apply?
Full-time
Criminology UCAS M900
Criminology and Policing UCAS ML94
Criminology and Security Studies UCAS LM9K
Criminology and Sociology UCAS LM39
You will have the opportunity to gain practical
insight through visits to prisons, courts and
police establishments. We are the only
institution in the UK to offer the combination
of Criminology and Policing as a degree.
What will I study?
The first stage of study is common whichever
route way is being followed; specialisation
takes place in the second and third years.
At all stages you will study a common core
of criminology subjects together with
specialist modules, relevant to the particular
routeway chosen.
Core subject areas common to all degrees
are Criminology Policy, Research Methods,
Managing Criminology, Theories of Rights,
American Criminology and a Dissertation.
Criminology
This programme provides an opportunity
for you to gain a broad understanding of
the operation of the CJS in England and
Wales, selecting modules to suit your
particular interests.
Criminology and Policing
Examines the way in which the police in
England and Wales operate and considers
some of the practical and theoretical issues
faced by modern police forces.
Part-time
Direct to Faculty
55
Section Three Courses Criminology
Modules specific to the Criminology and
Policing course include Policing the State,
Contemporary Issues in Policing, Managing
the Police and Comparative Policing.
Criminology and Security Studies
The Security Studies degree aims to
examine those key elements of insecurity
in the contemporary world, be it from visible,
radical, religious groups and terrorist
campaigns through to longer term issues
of insecurity created by declining resources
or a changing environment. The focus is not
solely on Britain and the security threats but
includes wider study of the underlying causes
of insecurity and various governmental and
group responses to it.
Criminology and Sociology
These two specialisms of social science overlap
in subjects like crime culture and the social
reasons behind the causes of crime. This
joint degree provides you with the opportunity
to combine a sociological perspective with
a theoretical approach to the operation of
criminal justice agencies. You will study the
links between social issues and the relationship
they have with crime.
You can also select optional modules from
a range of disciplines across the School
of Sciences.
CONT...
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 6600
F: 0121 331 6622
E: socialsciences@bcu.ac.uk
W: www.lhds.bcu.ac.uk
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
 You are encouraged to take an active interest
in the work of the various criminology agencies.
Opportunities exist for visits and voluntary
work and in certain circumstances academic
56

credit can be gained for voluntary work

undertaken. Current students are working in
a number of organisations including the Special
Section Three Courses Criminology

Constabulary, prison visiting, drug treatment

schemes, victim support and in bail/youth
hostels for young offenders.

We encourage those without relevant

experience in the sector to get involved with
some voluntary work whilst undertaking this
undergraduate programme. This can be done
for 4-8 hours per month depending upon who
you choose to do your work with, as it can
be negotiable.

How is my work assessed?

All courses are assessed through a combination of
coursework and examinations in all years, with a
dissertation requirement in year three.

Can I study further?

• MA Criminal Justice Policy and Practice
• MA Criminology
• MA Criminological Research
• MPhil or PhD research degrees

What are my employability prospects?

Part-time study in Criminology is often followed
by people who are already employed within
the CJS and who are intending to improve
their career prospects.

These courses are suitable if you wish to

embark on a criminal justice-related career,
including jobs in the police, Customs and
Excise, probation, youth justice, community
safety and the Prison Service as well as the
voluntary sector.

The course is especially suitable for serving

police officers and civilian support staff, customs
officers, prison officers and those working in the
Immigration and Nationality service.

Applied Social Science degrees also develop

skills that are appropriate to a range of careers
from teaching to retail management.
• END
Education
PgCert/PgDip/MA
PART-TIME VARIABLE
EDUCATION, LAW AND SOCIAL SCIENCES | CITY NORTH CAMPUS
Getting started - what will I need?
A degree, equivalent qualification, or professional
experience that equates to degree level is
required. All suitably qualified candidates
will normally be interviewed and selection
will be based on your ability to benefit from
and contribute to the course of study.
Exemption from some modules may be
granted for appropriate prior learning.
We welcome applications from mature students
and from members of communities traditionally
under-represented in higher education.
Tell me more...
This flexible part-time programme is intended
for those working in all education sectors,
from early years, to higher education. The
programme is also relevant to those in work-
based training environments or those with a
general interest in education.
The Master’s (MA) programme offers four
named routes designed to meet the needs of
teachers, lecturers and trainers. These are:
• PgCert/PgDip/MA in Education
• PgCert/PgDip/MA in Education Management
and Leadership
• PgCert/PgDip/MA in Higher Education
• PgCert/PgDip/MA in Research in
Education Practice
You will be able to discuss which route is most
suitable for your professional needs at the
interview stage.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
It will take you a period of two to seven years
to gain your MA qualification, depending upon
the time available to you to attend sessions
and to study.
What will I study?
The course provides a flexible and relevant
range of study in areas within the field of
education and training. It is designed to appeal
to teachers, lecturers and trainers who wish
to extend and enhance their professional
expertise in terms of knowledge, skills and
understanding. The course recognises that
professionals within the education and training
sector are increasingly being called upon to
operate at the analytical and intellectual level
required of MA level work.
The course provides you with a structure
enabling you to work towards the award of
MA through the accumulation of credits over
a period of up to seven years. A staged series
of interim awards helps to maintain a high
level of student motivation. The Postgraduate
Certificate (PgCert) is awarded after achieving
60 credits, the Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip)
is awarded after achieving a further 60 credits
and the MA is awarded after the achievement
of a 60 credit Dissertation, in addition to the
120 credits already gained at Stages 1 and
2. This provides a recognised professional
development qualification and a degree if you
do not have one.
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 7300
F: 0121 331 7316
E: education@bcu.ac.uk
W: www.bcu.ac.uk/education
57
Section Three Courses Education and Teacher Training
Modes of Study
There will be one programme of modules
running between October and January each
year and a further programme running between
February and June. Bespoke programmes can
be provided for groups. These may be offered
on or off-campus, subject to an appropriate
number of participants. Modules will be
delivered in a variety of ways: you will enrol
either on afternoon sessions, evening sessions,
individual programmes of study or intensive
study courses, some of which may be organised
through your institution or Local Authority.
Modules will include online learning support.
How is my work assessed?
Assessment is by coursework only.
Can I study further?
The Faculty has a thriving research programme
leading to MPhil and PhD. We welcome enquiries
from teachers, lecturers and others interested in
research in education policy and practice from
the early years to further and higher education
and lifelong learning.
What are my employability prospects?
This course affords the opportunity to
fulfil continuous professional development
requirements providing the opportunity for
career enhancement.
• END
Things to note...
The Faculty has a proactive attitude to
education policy and is progressive and
forward-thinking in its provision.
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
 Primary Education
PROFESSIONAL GRADUATE CERTIFICATE IN EDUCATION (PGCE) /
58
POSTGRADUATE CERTIFICATE IN EDUCATION (PGCE)*
PART-TIME 2 YEARS
EDUCATION, LAW AND SOCIAL SCIENCES | CITY NORTH CAMPUS
Section Three Courses Education and Teacher Training
Getting started - what will I need?
The usual entry qualifications include a good
degree from a UK higher education institution
or a recognised equivalent. You will need GCSE
grade C or above (or its equivalent) in English,
Mathematics and a Science subject at the point
of application. It is essential you have experience
of the primary classroom before applying.
In addition to this you will need to meet
the Training and Development Agency
(TDA) requirements for medical fitness and
successfully complete a criminal records
check via the Criminal Records Bureau
(CRB), through the Faculty.
You will be required to attend a selection
interview, lead a short group discussion and
take a written test to assess your standard
of English.
We welcome applications from mature students
and from members of communities traditionally
under-represented in higher education.
Tell me more...
This course prepares you to teach the
National Curriculum in primary schools
and to appreciate the wider professional role
of the teacher. There is the opportunity to
experience a range of urban and suburban
teaching environments and to consider
the varying needs of children. A personal
development programme ensures that you
develop awareness of your on-going needs
and strengths to carry into your early years
of teaching.
How do I apply?
Direct to GTTR
Course code: X103 F: 0121 331 7316
GTTR T: 0870 1122200
GTTR W: www.gttr.ac.uk
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
• Students highly rate the support they receive
from the Faculty and schools
• Proven record of very high standards and
excellent results
• Awarded Grade 1 by Ofsted in 2008 (Primary/
Early Years provision)
• TDA Category A provider of primary
teacher training
What will I study?
The course will run over two years split into six
terms and starts in September. It is anticipated
that the course will be taught over two days a
week, however teaching practices will be block
experiences of approximately five and eight
weeks respectively.
You will undertake one block teaching practice
in each year of the course, where you will
gain direct experience of teaching, as well as
observing experienced practitioners at work
in the classroom. Both block practices, along
with other short visits, are undertaken in West
Midlands’ primary schools. By the end of the
second practice you will have gained experience
of teaching approximately 80% of the timetable
in a supportive and guided context.
You will also undertake Teaching Studies,
which comprises a number of modules,
often workshop-based, covering professional
subject and age-range methodology, as well as
general pedagogical skills and all other major
educational issues.
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 7300
E: education@bcu.ac.uk
W: www.bcu.ac.uk/education
How is my work assessed?
Assessments are made through coursework,
teaching practice and the achievement of the
TDA Professional Standards for teachers,
including written work, school experiences,
online skills tests and evidence portfolios.
There is no written examination, but all parts
of the course must be satisfactorily completed
before the award of PGCE in Primary with
recommendation for Qualified Teacher Status
(QTS) can be made.
Can I study further?
The MA Education is a flexible part-time
programme intended for those working in
all education sectors, in work-based training
environments or those who may have a
general interest in education. Those gaining
the postgraduate qualification will be
entitled to enter our MA programme with
advanced standing.
What are my employability prospects?
This course allows you to progress your career
in the primary sector. Our graduates are highly
successful in finding teaching posts.
• END
* Subject to approval in 2008
Things to note...
We are one of only 10 institutions in the
country to achieve Grade One ‘outstanding’
for Secondary (05) and Primary (08) provision
in Ofsted inspections.
Aerospace Product Development
BEng (HONOURS)
PART-TIME 3-5 YEARS
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Getting started - what will I need?
Applicants will be expected to have successfully
completed at least one of the following or an
equivalent qualification:
• Five GCSEs/GCEs with at least two GCE
• A2 Levels or an AVCE double award, with
• Mathematics to at least AS Level. English
• Language and a Science subject to at least
• GCSE grade C.
• Edexcel National Certificate/Diploma in
• Engineering with a significant merit profile.
• Degree Foundation Certificate, Access to
• Higher Education qualification or equivalent
• in Engineering.
• Mature applicants able to demonstrate
• proficiency in Mathematics and written
• English will be considered for entry to
• this course.
This course can also be studied on a full time
basis and as a sandwich degree.
Tell me more...
This is a course for future high-flyers of
the aerospace industry, combining a range
of aerospace design, manufacture and
management principles. This broad mix will
enable successful graduates to operate at
the leading edge of engineering and work
effectively with a range of colleagues who
have different specialist considerations.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
What will I study?
The course is designed to produce professional
engineers who have been exposed to a
broad mix of engineering theory, application
and practice.
There are five themes on the course:
• Digital Content Management
• Aerospace Operations and Supply
Chain Management
• Stress Analysis
• Aerospace Engineering Design Management
• Project
The Aerospace Operations and Supply Chain
Management theme includes decision making
in operations management. Aerospace
Engineering Design Management and Digital
Content Management include methodologies
for the management of products and processes
throughout their life-cycles. The Project
theme will provide an essential range of core
skills to enable you to become an effective
communicator and have a good understanding
of business practice and organisation.
This degree is available as a sandwich award,
which includes a one year placement in
industry or commerce.
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 6400
F: 0121 331 5401
E: course.enquiries@tic.ac.uk
W: www.tic.ac.uk
59
Section Three Courses Engineering
How is my work assessed?
A range of assessment methods is used
throughout the course including continuous
assessment, in-class tests, examinations,
laboratory exercises and project work. Using
these methods, your all-round ability will
be appraised providing you with the best
opportunity to excel.
Can I study further?
The University has a range of postgraduate
(MSc, MPhil and PhD) programmes, details can
be found at www.bcu.ac.uk/courses
What are my employability prospects?
Aerospace engineers work in a variety of
industries and can therefore find jobs in
aerospace and automotive design, all types of
manufacturing, medical engineering, power
generation, sustainable engineering and sports
engineering. For more details of careers see
the Institution of Mechanical Engineering
website www.imeche.org.uk/education
• END
Things to note...
tic has been dynamic in responding to the
training needs of the automotive industry.
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
 Automotive Engineering
BEng (HONOURS) 
60
PART-TIME 3-5 YEARS
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Section Three Courses Engineering
Getting started - what will I need?
Applicants will be expected to have successfully
completed at least one of the following or an
equivalent qualification:
• Five GCSEs/GCEs with at least two GCE
A2 Levels or an AVCE double award, with
Mathematics to at least AS Level.
• English Language and a Science subject to
at least GCSE grade C.
• Edexcel National Certificate/Diploma in
Engineering with a significant merit profile.
• Degree Foundation Certificate, Access to
Higher Education qualification or equivalent
in Engineering.
• Mature applicants able to demonstrate
proficiency in Mathematics and written
English will be considered for entry to
this course.
This course can also be studied on a full time
basis and as a sandwich degree.
Tell me more...
The UK remains one of Europe’s leading
automotive centres for design, development
and manufacturing. This course is designed
to provide you with the technical knowledge,
analytical capability and practical design
skills required in this highly
competitive industry.
What will I study?
This broad-based course shares modules
with the BEng (Honours) Mechanical
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
Engineering course, with specialist modules
covering Vehicle Body/Chassis and Engine/
Drivetrain Systems. These are supported by
complementary modules focusing on Control
and Vehicle Electronic Systems, which reflect
the multi-skilled approach needed to apply
the latest technologies in the automotive and
related industries.
The course comprises five themes:
• Project
• Modelling and Simulation
• Vehicle Systems
• Stress Analysis
• Vehicle Engineering
The first and second years of the course give a
general foundation in mechanical engineering
and is common with the BEng (Honours)
Mechanical Engineering degree course.
The third year of the course provides a
fundamental awareness of automotive systems
(Electrical and Control Systems) and design
(Vehicle Component and Performance Analysis)
developing the course’s automotive identity.
Within the final two years, the Vehicle Systems
and Vehicle Engineering themes provide
detailed knowledge for the project modules.
The themes of Modelling and Simulation and
Stress Analysis provide support for the vehicle
themes and the project.
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 6400
F: 0121 331 5401
E: course.enquiries@tic.ac.uk
W: www.tic.ac.uk
This degree is available as a sandwich award,
which includes a one year placement in
industry or commerce. It is also accredited
by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers
(IMechE) and by the Institution of Engineering
and Technology (IET).
How is my work assessed?
A range of assessment methods is used
throughout the course including continuous
assessment, in-class tests, examinations,
laboratory exercises and project work. Using
these methods, your all-round ability will
be appraised providing you with the best
opportunity to excel.
Can I study further?
The University has a range of postgraduate
(MSc, MPhil and PhD) programmes, details
can be found at www.bcu.ac.uk/courses
What are my employability prospects?
Successful graduates will have excellent
career prospects, possessing the intellectual,
technical and personal qualities necessary
to apply new technologies to the solution of
automotive engineering problems.
• END
Things to note...
Almost all of our courses are now
supported by Moodle, the University’s
‘virtual learning environment’.
Automotive Engineering
PgCert/PgDip/MSc
FULL-TIME 16/19 MONTHS | PART-TIME 32 MONTHS
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Getting started - what will I need?
See page 286 of the current prospectus for
standard entry requirements.
If you do not hold the standard requirements,
you may be considered for admission provided
you can satisfy the course director and relevant
module tutors that your qualifications and/or
industrial experience are sufficient.
Tell me more...
The course focuses on the design aspects
of Automotive Engineering in respect of
powertrain, body and chassis, suspension
dynamics and noise, vibration and harshness
(NVH). The course is designed to produce
highly analytical automotive engineers through
advanced understanding of modern automotive
systems and processes.
What will I study?
The course consists of four major modules and
the Master’s (MSc) project.
The successful completion of two modules
leads to the award of Postgraduate Certificate
(PgCert). Completion of two further modules
lead to the award of Postgraduate Diploma
(PgDip) and the completion of the project leads
to the MSc.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
The four modules are:
Automotive Powertrain:
Engine System Design; Drivetrain System
Design; Powertrain Electronics and Control;
Engine Testing and Calibration; and Engine
Performance Simulation.
Simulation Techniques:
In-depth Studies of Finite Element Analysis;
Modelling of Rigid Body Motion; and Control
Systems Simulation.
Body Engineering:
Automotive Bodyshell Manufacture; Vehicle
and Suspension Dynamics; Vehicle Design;
Body Engineering; and Chassis Systems.
New Materials and Processes:
Advanced Material Science; Designing
with New Materials; and Modelling of
Manufacturing Processes.
Master’s project
This provides an opportunity to apply
knowledge gained during study to a substantial
problem. This will test your ability to integrate
and utilise skills learnt on the course.
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 6400
F: 0121 331 5401
E: course.enquiries@tic.ac.uk
W: www.tic.ac.uk
61
Section Three Courses Engineering
How is my work assessed?
Project reports, record keeping and oral
presentations are used extensively for
assessment purposes as well as time
constrained tests and other approaches
as appropriate.
Can I study further?
The University can offer postgraduate research
(MPhil and PhD) programmes, details can be
found at www.bcu.ac.uk/courses
What are my employability prospects?
Typical routes to employment that could lead
from this programme include:
• Development engineer
• Design and performance engineer
• Research associate at PhD level
• Project manager
• END
Things to note...
tic uniquely integrates learning programmes
with solutions for business, employing some
300 staff, with over a third working directly
on knowledge and technology transfer
programmes with industry.
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
 Electronic Engineering
BEng (HONOURS)
62
PART-TIME 3-5 YEARS
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Section Three Courses Engineering
Getting started - what will I need?
Applicants will be expected to have successfully
completed at least one of the following or an
equivalent qualification:
• Five GCSEs/GCEs with at least two GCE
A2 Levels or an AVCE double award, with
Mathematics to at least AS Level.
• English Language and a Science subject to
at least GCSE grade C.
• Edexcel National Certificate/Diploma in
Engineering with a significant merit profile.
• Degree Foundation Certificate, Access to
Higher Education qualification or equivalent
in Engineering.
• Mature applicants able to demonstrate
proficiency in Mathematics and written
English will be considered for entry to
this course.
This course can also be studied on a full-time
basis and as a sandwich degree.
Tell me more...
The development and application of electronic
and microelectronic systems underpins the
computer and communications technologies
that influence nearly every aspect of our
lives. This course combines a study of the
enabling technologies of electronics and
communications with applications relating
to design and development of real systems.
You will be versatile, technically literate and
creative, with the practical design skills
relevant to the specification, design,
simulation and test of electronic and
microelectronic systems.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
What will I study?
The course content has been structured to
facilitate the development of key technical
themes based on a firm foundation of electrical,
communications, electronic and programming
principles. Mathematics, Business and Project
Management support the technical themes.
The key technical themes are as follows:
Analogue Electronics – develops your ability to
design and analyse analogue electronic circuits.
It covers the building blocks of complex
analogue systems and extends this knowledge
to design and simulation tools.
Digital Electronics – develops your knowledge
and understanding of the tools, techniques
and devices required to design and implement
digital circuits. You will be introduced to the
use of modern Electronic Design Automation
(EDA) tools used for the design, simulation,
implementation and verification of digital
microelectronic systems.
Embedded Systems – provides a practical
understanding of the techniques and tools
used in the specification and design of
software and hardware for programmable
microelectronic systems.
Communications – develops the principles
of computer networks and communications
engineering and their application in a
practical context.
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 6400
F: 0121 331 5401
E: course.enquiries@tic.ac.uk
W: www.tic.ac.uk
This degree is available as a sandwich
award, which includes a one year placement
in industry or commerce. This course is
accredited by the Institution of Engineering
and Technology (IET) as satisfying the
academic requirements for Chartered
Engineer (CEng) status.
How is my work assessed?
A range of assessment methods is used
throughout the course including continuous
assessment, in-class tests, examinations,
laboratory exercises and project work. Using
these methods, your all-round ability will
be appraised providing you with the best
opportunity to excel.
Can I study further?
The University has a range of postgraduate
(MSc, MPhil and PhD) programmes, details
can be found at www.bcu.ac.uk/courses
What are my employability prospects?
Graduates will have a practical experience of
designing analogue and digital circuits and a
wider understanding of how they integrate with
programmable and microelectronic systems
in the overall design of intelligent electronic
systems. Graduates are likely to find career
opportunities in the specification, design
and testing and support of electronic and
microelectronic systems in a diverse range
of industries.
• END
Things to note...
tic is located at Millennium Point in the
heart of Birmingham City Centre. The
£114m development provides some of
the best resources in the country.
Management of Manufacturing Systems
BEng (HONOURS) 
PART-TIME 3-5 YEARS
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Getting started - what will I need?
Applicants will be expected to have successfully
completed at least one of the following or an
equivalent qualification:
• Five GCSEs/GCEs with at least two GCE
A2 Levels or an AVCE double award, with
Mathematics to at least AS Level.
• English Language and a Science subject to
at least GCSE grade C.
• Edexcel National Certificate/Diploma in
Engineering with a significant merit profile.
• Degree Foundation Certificate, Access to
Higher Education qualification or equivalent
in Engineering.
• Mature applicants able to demonstrate
proficiency in Mathematics and written
English will be considered for entry at
Foundation level.
This course can also be studied on a full-time
basis and as a sandwich degree.
Tell me more...
This degree course offers an exciting
programme of study that prepares you for
the rapidly developing area of manufacturing.
The course aims to develop engineers who
can apply the principles of systems
management, engineering and information
technology to solve operational problems
in industry and commerce.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
What will I study?
You will possess the intellectual, creative and
personal qualities required to implement
new and emerging technologies to solve
manufacturing problems. The course is based
on the synthesis and application of practical
knowledge through the study of the following
essential themes:
• World Class Manufacturing – includes total
quality management, quality engineering and
manufacturing services.
• Operations Management – includes
developing decision making in operations
management.
• Manufacturing Technology – includes
integrated manufacturing strategies and
technologies.
• Design Management – includes design
methodologies and management and
computer-based design tools.
• Business and Project Management
– encompasses project planning and the role
of the engineer in industry and the economy.
This degree is available as a sandwich award,
which includes a one year placement in industry
or commerce. It is also accredited by the
Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET)
as satisfying the BEng academic requirements
for Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 6400
F: 0121 331 5401
E: course.enquiries@tic.ac.uk
W: www.tic.ac.uk
63
Section Three Courses Engineering
How is my work assessed?
A range of assessment methods is used
throughout the course including continuous
assessment, in-class tests, examinations,
laboratory exercises and project work. Using
these methods, your all-round ability will
be appraised providing you with the best
opportunity to excel.
Can I study further?
The University has a range of postgraduate
(MSc, MPhil and PhD) programmes, details
can be found at www.bcu.ac.uk/courses
What are my employability prospects?
Typical routes of employment that could lead
from this programme include:
• Project engineer – whether in a design
scenario, production environment,
manufacturing engineering, commissioning
or operations management.
• Technical appointments in information
technology and manufacturing.
• Research and development and with
new technologies.
• Managerial posts including marketing
and sales.
• END
Things to note...
tic is an integrated centre for learning and
business support, with unique expertise in
the development of skills in both individuals
and across entire organisations.
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
 Manufacturing Systems
CERTIFICATE IN PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
64
Part-time variable
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Section Three Courses Engineering
Getting started - what will I need?
Whilst there are no formal education entry
requirements for the course, a good general
education is necessary, particularly with regard
to literacy and numeracy. Mature individuals
with relevant experience may also be eligible
for entry following an interview with the course
director. Please contact the tic on 0121 331
6400 to arrange an informal discussion.
Tell me more...
Manufacturing companies have seen major
changes to production processes in recent
years, driven primarily by the adoption of
advanced ICT. The applications of Computer
Aided Design (CAD), product data models
and virtual prototypes are key elements of
both product development and information
exchange. ICT and lean manufacturing have
become the tools by which communication
and performance up and down the supply chain
are advancing. Many companies are therefore
becoming aware of the shortage of personnel
who possess the necessary skills in these
new technologies.
What will I study?
This course is a programme of formal learning
and work-based application of principles and
practices of advanced operations management,
covering aspects such as how tools and
techniques are used to support production
planning, production control and process
improvement activities.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
A total of five optional modules or equivalent What are my employability prospects?
must be studied to successfully complete the Continuing professional development is
course. These can be selected from: essential either for those in employment
• Manufacturing Systems or those seeking employment. The ongoing
• Digital Tools for Projects advancement of new technologies and
• CNC Techniques and Methodologies associated techniques makes the need to
• Tool Design update skills paramount in the quest for
• Prescriptive Improvement Methodologies career progression.
• Knowledge-based Engineering • END
• Product Life Cycle Management
• World Class Manufacturing
• Introduction to Quality
• Double Project
Course modules are scheduled to enable you to
select modules appropriate to your individual
needs, thus permitting the programme to be
studied in either a short or extended time scale.
How is my work assessed?
A range of assessment methods is used
throughout the course including continuous
assessment, in-class tests, examinations,
laboratory exercises and project work. Using
these methods, your all-round ability will be
appraised, thus providing you with the best
opportunity to excel.
Can I study further?
The course provides an introduction to higher
level study and also provides progression
opportunities for further study/qualifications
at foundation and/or degree level.
How can I get more info? Things to note...
T: 0121 331 6400 tic provides cutting-edge resources and
F: 0121 331 5401 specialised knowledge structures to meet the
E: course.enquiries@tic.ac.uk needs of a rapidly developing technology-
W: www.tic.ac.uk based society.
Mechanical Engineering
BEng (HONOURS) 
PART-TIME 3-5 YEARS
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Getting started - what will I need?
Applicants will be expected to have successfully
completed at least one of the following or an
equivalent qualification:
• Five GCSEs/GCEs with at least two GCE
A2 Levels or an AVCE double award, with
Mathematics to at least AS Level.
• English Language and a Science subject to
at least GCSE grade C.
• Edexcel National Certificate/Diploma in
Engineering with a significant merit profile.
• Degree Foundation Certificate, Access to
Higher Education qualification or equivalent
in Engineering.
• Mature applicants able to demonstrate
proficiency in Mathematics and written
English will be considered for entry to
this course.
This course can also be studied on a full-time
basis and as a sandwich degree.
Tell me more...
The UK’s engineering sector has an annual
turnover in excess of £100 billion, with
high profile world-class capabilities in
aerospace, defence, automotive development
and motorsport. The course combines a
study of design, mechanical systems and
power/energy, together with complementary
studies in modelling, simulation, business
and professional studies. The application of
industry-standard computer applications for
analysis and design is central to the course
curriculum in areas such as design and
stress analysis.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
What will I study?
The course comprises five themes:
• Design Engineering
• Thermodynamics
• Stress Analysis
• Modelling and Simulation
• Business and Project Management
The Design Engineering theme covers from
design management and assurance through
to designing for usability, manufacturability
and, ultimately, for recycling at end-of-life. The
Thermodynamics theme includes the detailed
study of power transmission and generation
systems followed by an understanding of the
environmental impact, its management
and the associated legislation that arises from
the use of such systems. The Stress Analysis
theme provides an in depth knowledge of stress
analysis, finite element analysis and materials,
together with the principles of the mechanics
of solids. The Modelling and Simulation and
the Business and Project Management themes
provide an underpinning knowledge base for
the other themes and an individual project.
This degree is available as a sandwich award,
which includes a one year placement in
industry or commerce. It is also accredited
by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers
(IMechE) and by the Institution of Engineering
and Technology (IET).
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 6400
F: 0121 331 5401
E: course.enquiries@tic.ac.uk
W: www.tic.ac.uk
65
Section Three Courses Engineering
How is my work assessed?
A range of assessment methods is used
throughout the course including continuous
assessment, in-class tests, examinations,
laboratory exercises and project work. Using
these methods, your all-round ability will
be appraised providing you with the best
opportunity to excel.
Can I study further?
The University has a range of postgraduate
(MSc, MPhil and PhD) programmes, details
can be found at www.bcu.ac.uk/courses
What are my employability prospects?
Mechanical engineers work in a variety of
industries and can therefore find jobs in
aerospace and automotive design, all types
of manufacturing, medical engineering, power
generation, sustainable engineering and sports
engineering. For more details of careers see
the Institution of Mechanical Engineering
website at www.imeche.org.uk/education.
• END
Things to note...
tic is a national centre for excellence for
technology-based, lifelong learning and
business solutions, with specialist
technologies for individuals and businesses.
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
 Mechanical Engineering
PgCert/PgDip/MSc
66
Full-time 16/19 months | Part-time 32 months
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Section Three Courses Engineering
Getting started - what will I need?
See page 286 of the current prospectus for
standard entry requirements.
If you do not hold the standard requirements,
you may be considered for admission provided
you can satisfy the course director and relevant
module tutors that your qualifications and/or
industrial experience are sufficient.
Tell me more...
The course focuses on design and analysis
within the field of Mechanical Engineering,
embracing aspects of design, stress analysis
and dynamics and control. The course has
been developed to support engineers within the
design role by providing a rigorous grounding
in the application of advanced computer-based
modelling and simulation techniques.
What will I study?
The course consists of four major modules and
the Master’s (MSc) project.
The successful completion of two modules
leads to the award of Postgraduate Certificate
(PgCert). Completion of two further modules
leads to the award of Postgraduate Diploma
(PgDip) and the completion of the project
leads to the MSc.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
The four modules are:
Simulation Techniques:
In-depth Studies of Finite Element Analysis;
Modelling of Rigid Body Motion; and Control
Systems Simulation.
Computer Aided Design:
Computer Based Design Tools; Applied
Mechanics; Design Methodology;
and Management.
Dynamics Noise and Control:
Computer Modelling; and Simulation of Static
and Dynamic and Vibrating
Systems for the Optimisation of their Transient
and Steady-state Performance.
New Materials and Processes:
Advanced Material Science; Designing
with new Materials; and Modelling of
Manufacturing Processes.
Master’s project
The MSc project provides an opportunity to
apply knowledge gained during study to a
substantial problem. This will test your ability
to integrate and utilise skills learnt on
the course.
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 6400
F: 0121 331 5401
E: course.enquiries@tic.ac.uk
W: www.tic.ac.uk
How is my work assessed?
Project reports, record keeping and oral
presentations are used extensively for
assessment purposes as well as time
constrained tests and other approaches
as appropriate.
Can I study further?
The University can offer postgraduate research
(MPhil and PhD) programmes, details can be
found at www.tic.ac.uk/courses
What are my employability prospects?
Typical routes of employment that could lead
from this programme include:
• Development engineer for automotive,
aeronautical and offshore engineering
industries
• Design and performance engineer
• Research associate at PhD level
• Stress analyst
• END
Things to note...
Almost all of our courses are now
supported by Moodle, the University’s
‘virtual learning environment’.
Product Life Cycle Management
CERTIFICATE IN PROFESSIONAL STUDIES 
PART-TIME VARIABLE
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Getting started - what will I need?
Whilst there are no formal education entry
requirements for the course, a good general
education is necessary, particularly with regard
to literacy and numeracy. Mature individuals
with relevant experience may also be eligible
for entry following an interview with the course
director. Please contact the tic on 0121 331
6400 to arrange an informal discussion.
Tell me more...
Globalisation and climate change is driving
supply chains to focus not only on traditional
performance measures of cost, quality,
delivery and partnership but also on after
sales support, carbon footprints and recycling.
With Advance Product Life Cycle Management
(PLM) and Programme Management becoming
the tools by which new product development,
systems integration, workflow and supply
chain performance are advancing, there is an
increasing demand for personnel who possess
the necessary skills in these new technologies.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
What will I study?
This course is a programme of formal learning
and work-based application of PLM techniques
and technologies that are key capabilities
within organisations with an engineering
focus such as those in aerospace, automotive,
shipbuilding and power engineering.
The course comprises three core modules:
Introduction to PLM, Advanced PLM and
Customer Focus, Design and Risk Analysis and
the equivalent of two further modules that can
be elected from a range of full or half
modules including:
• World Class Operations
• Double Project
• Waste Management and Recycling
• Technologies for Sustainable Manufacture
• Technologies for Sustainable Products
• Quality Management Philosophy
and Leadership
• Knowledge Based Engineering
• Digital Tools for Projects
• Introduction to Collaborative Technologies
• Manufacturing Systems
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 6400
F: 0121 331 5401
E: course.enquiries@tic.ac.uk
W: www.tic.ac.uk
67
Section Three Courses Engineering
How is my work assessed?
A range of assessment methods is used
throughout the course including continuous
assessment, in-class tests, examinations,
laboratory exercises and project work. Using
these methods, your all-round ability will be
appraised, thus providing you with the best
opportunity to excel.
Can I study further?
The course provides an introduction to higher
level study and also provides progression
opportunities for further study/qualifications
at foundation and/or degree level.
What are my employability prospects?
Continuing professional development is
essential either for those in employment
or those seeking employment. The ongoing
advancement of new technologies and
associated techniques makes the need to
update skills paramount in the quest for
career progression.
• END
Things to note...
tic and national training specialists QM&T,
have been jointly awarded ‘Best Education
Centre’ by the Chartered Institute of Quality.
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
 Telecommunications and Networks
BEng (HONOURS)
68
PART-TIME 3-5 YEARS
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Section Three Courses Engineering
Getting started - what will I need?
Applicants will be expected to have successfully
completed at least one of the following or an
equivalent qualification:
• Five GCSEs/GCEs with at least two GCE
A2 Levels or an AVCE double award with
Mathematics to at least AS Level.
• English Language and a Science subject to
at least GCSE grade C.
• Edexcel National Certificate/Diploma in
Engineering with a significant merit profile.
• Degree Foundation Certificate, Access to
Higher Education qualification or equivalent
in Engineering.
• Mature applicants able to demonstrate
proficiency in Mathematics and written
English will be considered for entry to
this course.
This course can also be studied on a full-time
basis and as a sandwich degree.
Tell me more...
Telecommunications and communication
networks continue to experience rapid
technological development, pervading daily
life in applications such as mobile telephones
and wireless internet communications.
This course combines a study of
telecommunications and networks with
their creative applications relating to design,
development and management of information
carrying systems. You will be versatile,
technically literate and have the practical
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
design skills relevant to the specification,
design, simulation and test of communication
networks and associated systems.
What will I study?
The course comprises five themes:
• Digital Electronics – provides knowledge
and understanding of the tools, techniques
and devices required to design and implement
digital circuits.
• Telecommunications – provides the essentials
of signal transmission and processing for
modern communications networks.
• Communications Networks – incorporates
the Cisco Systems curriculum that adopts
a hands-on approach to the specification,
modelling, design, maintenance and
management of local and wide-area networks.
• This allows you to gain a detailed practical
knowledge of the technologies upon which
the internet is based.
• Embedded Systems – provides an
understanding of the specification and design
of software and hardware for programmable
microelectronic systems.
• Mathematics, Business and Project
Management support the core themes.
The University is one of Cisco Systems’
leading International Academies. You will
benefit from the integration of the Cisco
e-Learning curriculum into appropriate
courses, allowing you to gain additional
recognised professional qualifications.
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 6400
F: 0121 331 5401
E: course.enquiries@tic.ac.uk
W: www.tic.ac.uk
This degree is available as a sandwich award,
which includes a one year placement in
industry or commerce. It is also accredited by
the Institution of Engineering and Technology
(IET) as satisfying the academic requirements
for Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.
How is my work assessed?
A range of assessment methods is used
throughout the course including continuous
assessment, in-class tests, examinations,
laboratory exercises and project work. Using
these methods, your all-round ability will
be appraised providing you with the best
opportunity to excel.
Can I study further?
The University has a range of postgraduate
(MSc, MPhil and PhD) programmes, details
can be found at www.bcu.ac.uk/courses
What are my employability prospects?
Graduates are likely to pursue employment
opportunities in the field of specification,
design and management of communications
and telecommunication systems. You will have
the knowledge, skills and versatility to work in
a broad range of sectors including:
• Telecommunications
• Network planning and management
• Research and development
• END
Things to note...
You can find out about open days by
visiting www.tic.ac.uk
Food Processing Systems
CERTIFICATE IN PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
Part-time VARIABLE
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Getting started - what will I need?
Whilst there are no formal education entry
requirements for the course, a good general
education is necessary, particularly with regard
to literacy and numeracy. Mature individuals
with relevant experience may also be eligible
for entry following an interview with the course
director. Please contact the tic on 0121 331
6400 to arrange an informal discussion.
Tell me more...
This course provides the knowledge and skills
required to optimise the use of production
facilities and minimise environmental impact
and energy used in the food processing sector.
What will I study?
This course provides a practical understanding
of the issues facing the food processing
industry. It introduces technologies and
techniques necessary to address topics linked
to external legislative and internal economic
drivers. The course comprises three core
modules plus two optional modules selected
from the following:
Core modules:
• World Class Operations
• Quality Management for the Food Processing
Industry
• Industrial Water and Waste Water
Management or Energy Surveying
and Auditing
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
Optional modules include:
• Digital Tools for Projects
• Renewable Energy Sources
• Waste Management and Recycling
• Quality Systems and Auditing
• Prescriptive Improvement Methodologies
• Introduction to Information and
Communications Technology
• Introduction to Collaborative Technologies
Course modules are scheduled to enable you
to select those appropriate to your individual
needs, thus permitting the programme to be
studied in either a short or extended time scale.
Duration is variable depending on the mode of
delivery. Typically, it will be one academic year
for a day-release student but no more than five
years from enrolment.
The course is relevant if you are starting out
in your career, or moving industry but lack
the awareness of how the food industry varies
from other types of manufacturing. Businesses
will also benefit from offering this type of
programme to existing employees as they
benefit from building a specific knowledge base
in an area of their workforce.
How is my work assessed?
A range of assessment methods is used
throughout the course including continuous
assessment, in-class tests, examinations,
laboratory exercises and project work. Using
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 6400
F: 0121 331 5401
E: course.enquiries@tic.ac.uk
W: www.tic.ac.uk
69
Section Three Courses Environment
these methods, your all-round ability will be
appraised, thus providing you with the best
opportunity to excel.
Can I study further?
The course provides an introduction to higher
level study and also provides progression
opportunities for further study/qualifications
at foundation and/or degree level.
What are my employability prospects?
Continuing professional development is
essential either for those in employment
or those seeking employment. The ongoing
advancement of new technologies and
associated techniques makes the need to
update skills paramount in the quest for
career advancement.
• END
Things to note...
tic has forged powerful partnerships with
leading global technology companies. This
ensures courses are vocationally focused
and up-to-date, developing skills that are
of immediate benefit to the workplace.
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
 Integrated Environmental Management
MSc
70
Full-time 16/19 months | Part-time 32 months
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Section Three Courses Environment
Getting started - what will I need?
See page 286 of the current prospectus for
standard entry requirements.
If you do not hold the standard entry
requirements you may be considered for
admission provided you can satisfy the course
director and relevant module tutors that your
qualifications and/or industrial experience
are sufficient.
Tell me more...
Climate change is one of the major challenges
facing the world today. Organisations of
all types are striving to improve efficiency
and to reduce their energy costs and
overall environmental impact. There is a
growing demand for professionals skilled
in environmental management and the
implementation of carbon management and
sustainable development initiatives. This
multi-disciplinary course draws on expertise
from across the University to provide students
with the specialist knowledge needed to provide
practicable holistic solutions to complex
environmental problems.
The course is designed to facilitate part-
time study and to offer maximum flexibility
to students already engaged in challenging
careers. Project work undertaken during
the course is structured to improve the
performance of the companies they’re
employed by. Graduates from the course
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
are expected to have the theoretical and
practical knowledge needed to manage major
environmental projects.
What will I study?
The course consists of four major modules and
the Master’s (MSc) project.
The successful completion of two modules
leads to the award of Postgraduate Certificate
(PgCert). Completion of two further modules
lead to the award of Postgraduate Diploma
(PgDip) and the completion of the project leads
to the MSc.
The course aims to:
Develop an understanding of the major issues
relating to climate change, sustainable
development and the management of
environmental impact.
Develop a detailed knowledge of current
environmental policies and relevant legislation.
Develop expertise in techniques and
technologies related to energy, water and
waste management in the areas of business,
manufacturing processes and sustainable
buildings.
Develop the skills required to justify, plan,
implement and sustain environmental, energy
and carbon management programmes within
a variety of organisations.
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 6400
F: 0121 331 5401
E: course.enquiries@tic.ac.uk
W: www.tic.ac.uk
MSc Project
The MSc project provides an opportunity to
apply knowledge gained during study to a
substantial problem. This will test your ability
to integrate and utilise skills learnt on
the course.
How is my work assessed?
Project reports, record keeping and oral
presentations are used extensively for
assessment purposes as well as time-
constrained tests and other approaches
as appropriate.
Can I study further?
The tic can offer postgraduate research (MPhil
and PhD) programmes, details can be found at
www.tic.ac.uk
What are my employability prospects?
Typical routes of employment that could lead
from this programme include:
• Environmental consultancy
• Technology development and implementation
within industry
• Pollution control officers and inspectors for
the regulatory authorities (Local Authorities
and Environment Agency)
• END
Things to note...
tic has forged powerful partnerships with
leading global technology companies. This
ensures courses are vocationally focused
and up-to-date, developing skills that are
of immediate benefit to the workplace.
Fashion Promotion
PgCert/PgDip/MA
FULL-TIME 1 YEAR | PART-TIME 2 YEARS
BIAD | GOSTA GREEN 
Getting started - what will I need?
Although it is expected that the majority of
applicants for the course will have an arts,
media or humanities Honours degree, we
also welcome applicants with other educational
experiences and qualifications. Equally
welcome are applications from those with
professional rather than academic experience,
including mature candidates.
Tell me more...
The course is part of the Fashion Media
Master’s (MA) Programme within the School
of Fashion and Textiles. Primarily vocational
and practical, the course caters for those
with career interests in contemporary fashion
communication and the promotion of fashion
companies, goods, events and brands.  and contextual framework within which to
What will I study?
Each postgraduate stage takes fifteen weeks
full-time or thirty weeks part-time. During
all stages the majority of your study time
and effort is devoted to practical and
creative studies.
During the Postgraduate Certificate (PgCert)
emphasis is on your ability to conceive and
initiate promotional projects, then develop
creative strategies for their realisation. You
initially write a Personal Programme of Study
(POS), which outlines your study plans and
can be interdisciplinary in nature. You will also
maintain a diary and give a seminar.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
71
Section Three Courses Fashion
The Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip) stage Can I study further?
focuses on developing your ability to manage The School of Fashion and Textiles supports a
short promotional projects from conception wide range of fashion and textile related PhD
to realisation. You also write a strategic plan studies, including practice-based studies. 
relating to your remaining studies, personal
development and career ambitions. You are What are my employability prospects?
introduced to a range of research techniques Potential areas of employment and expertise
and resources. You can undertake work on exit are as follows: Fashion Marketing
placement or experience, or external activities and Promotion, Public Relations, Brand and
related to your POS. Product Management, Trend Analysis and
Forecasting, Service Development, Consultancy
For your MA you will undertake a single and Research.
major promotion project, that reflects your • END
POS, showcases your abilities and ideas and
is executed and managed in a professional
manner. You also write a reflective report
that encourages you to develop a critical
understand your practice. Finally, you present
an exhibition (or equivalent) that reflects your
studies and career goals. Your programme
will include a mixture of practical projects and
written work. 
How is my work assessed?
At the end of each stage you will present and
explain your practical work. Written reports are
required to conform to academic conventions
- other documentation can be more creative
in format. It is necessary to pass each
postgraduate stage before progressing to
the next. 
How can I get more info? Things to note...
T: 0121 331 5595 BIAD is the largest centre for art, design
F: 0121 331 7994 and media education outside London.
E: choices@bcu.ac.uk
W: www.bcu.ac.uk/courses
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
 Fashion Styling
PgCert/PgDip/MA
72
Full-time 1 year | Part-time 2 years
BIAD | GOSTA GREEN
Section Three Courses Fashion
Getting started - what will I need?
Although it is expected that the majority of
applicants for the course will have an arts,
media or humanities Honours degree, we
welcome applicants with other educational
experiences and qualifications. Equally
welcome are applications from those with
professional rather than academic experience,
including mature candidates.
Tell me more...
The course is part of the Fashion Media
Master’s (MA) Programme within the School
of Fashion and Textiles. Primarily vocational
and practical, the course caters for those
with career interests in contemporary fashion
styling, visualisation and communications.
What will I study?
Each postgraduate stage takes fifteen weeks
full-time or thirty weeks part-time. During
all stages the majority of your study time
and effort is devoted to practical and
creative studies.
During the Postgraduate Certificate (PgCert)
emphasis is on your ability to conceive and
initiate styling projects, then develop creative
strategies for their realisation. You initially
write a Personal Programme of Study (POS)
which outlines your study plans. Programmes
of Study can be interdisciplinary in nature. You
will also maintain a diary and give a seminar.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
The Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip) stage Can I study further?
focuses on developing your ability to manage The School of Fashion and Textiles supports a
short styling projects from conception to wide range of fashion and textile related PhD
realisation. You also write a strategic plan studies, including practice-based studies.
relating to your remaining studies, personal
development and career ambitions. You are What are my employability prospects?
introduced to a range of research techniques Potential areas of employment and expertise
and resources. You can undertake work on exit are as follows: Fashion Styling, Visual
placement or experience, or external activities Merchandising, Image Consultancy, Brand
related to your POS. Development, Events Management, Research,
Trend Analysis and Forecasting.
For your MA you will undertake a single • END
major styling project, that reflects your POS,
showcases your abilities and ideas and is
executed and managed in a professional
manner. You also write a reflective report
that encourages you to develop a critical
and contextual framework within which to
understand your practice. Finally, you present
an exhibition (or equivalent) that reflects your
studies and career goals. Your programme
will include a mixture of practical projects,
written work.
How is my work assessed?
At the end of each stage you will present and
explain your practical work. Written reports
are required to conform to academic
conventions - other documentation can be
more creative in format. It is necessary to
pass each postgraduate stage before
progressing to the next.
How can I get more info? Things to note...
T: 0121 331 5595 The Gosta Green campus is just five
F: 0121 331 7994 minutes walk from the city centre.
E: choices@bcu.ac.uk
W: www.bcu.ac.uk/courses
PQ Child Care Programme
BSc (Hons) CHILD CARE PRACTICE / BSc (Hons) CHILD CARE PRACTICE (SPECIALIST PRACTICE)
GRADUATE DIPLOMA CHILD CARE PRACTICE / GRADUATE DIPLOMA CHILD CARE PRACTICE (SPECIALIST PRACTICE)
HEALTH | CITY NORTH CAMPUS/EDGBASTON CAMPUS/CLINICAL PLACEMENTS
Getting started - what will I need?
BSc (Hons) Child Care Practice
The BSc (Hons) Child Care Practice programme
is for non graduates who have direct access to
professional child care practice opportunities,
for example health visitors, nursery nurses,
police and social work assistants, who want to
extend their skills, knowledge and competence
beyond the point of initial qualification. Students
are required to obtain 120 credits in order to be
awarded the BSc (Hons) Child Care Practice.
You will need:
• 240 credits in a relevant professional area,
including 120 at Level 5
• Sponsorship, or support, from your employer to
enable access child care practice opportunities
BSc (Hons) Child Care Practice
(Specialist Practice)
This course will be attractive to professionally
qualified social work practitioners who are
non graduates and who wish to obtain a
degree and recognition of their continuous
professional development.
The programme will enable registered social
work practitioners who hold a professional
qualification in social work to obtain the
BSc (Hons) Child Care Practice as well as
the General Social Care Council (GSCC) Post
Qualifying Award in Specialist Social Work.
You are required to obtain 120 credits in order
to be awarded the BSc (Hons)
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
You will need:
• 240 credits in a relevant professional area,
including 120 at Level 5
• Registration as a Social Worker with
the GSCC
• Professional social work qualification (other
than a degree e.g. Diploma in Social Work,
CQSW, CSS)
• Access to practice opportunities within the
field of child care
Graduate Diploma Child Care Practice
The Graduate Diploma Child Care Practice
programme will enable child care practitioners
from a variety of non social work specific
professional backgrounds, such as health
workers, teachers, child therapist or
counsellors, who are already graduates to
develop their knowledge and skills beyond the
point of qualification. Students are required to
obtain 120 credits in order to be awarded the
Graduate Diploma Child Care Practice.
You will need:
• 360 credits in a relevant professional area,
including 120 at Level 6
• Access to practice opportunities within the
field of child care
Graduate Diploma Child Care Practice
(Specialist Practice)
The Graduate Diploma Child Care Practice
(Specialist Practice) programme will enable
registered social work practitioners who
already hold a degree as a professional
qualification in social work to obtain the
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 5595
F: 0121 331 7994
E: choices@bcu.ac.uk
W: www.bcu.ac.uk/courses
73
Section Three Courses Health and Social Care
Graduate Diploma Child Care Practice as well
as the General Social Care Council (GSCC) Post
Qualifying Award in Specialist Social Work.
Students will be required to obtain 120 credits
to be awarded the Graduate Diploma Child Care
Practice (Specialist Practice).
You will need:
• 360 credits in a relevant professional area,
including 120 at Level 6
• Registration as a Social Worker with
the GSCC
• Professional Social Work qualification at
degree level
• Access to practice opportunities within the
field of child care
Tell me more...
The programmes respond to the government
agenda to enhance the children’s workforce and
to therefore place service users and practitioners
at the centre of policy implementation, for
example the Every Child Matters agenda.
The design of each of the programmes
acknowledges the importance of work-based
learning as a crucial element in enabling
practitioners to achieve standards required
within the child care field. Consequently, each
programme considers both theory and practice.
The programmes offered provide flexibility to
enable practitioners to enhance learning and
knowledge, to effect positive change within
practice, promote critical thinking about own
practice and enables you to extend your current
knowledge base through problem solving,
CONT...
Things to note...
The Faculty of Health has strong links
with NHS Trusts and other health and
social care partners.
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
 consideration of risk and protection and theories
of change and transition  
What will I study?
74
The course has been designed to be flexible
to enable practitioners to plan a programme
of study that will meet your professional and
Section Three Courses Health and Social Care
personal learning needs.
You can choose to study a degree or graduate
diploma (with or without specialist practice),
or you can simply pick modules that suit your
needs and the needs of your organisation.
Professional practice is seen as central to the
effective preparation in achieving competence.
The programme has been developed from the
premise that you are being prepared as a child
care specialist practitioner at a level beyond
initial registration recognising that:
• Skills, knowledge and values are transferable.
• Research evidence underpins and informs
effective specialist child care practice
through integration.
• You are actively involved in the delivery of
child care practice, working with children,
young people and their families.
• The Professional Code of Conduct/Ethics
applies to all practice interventions.
• Life long learning and continuing professional
development is essential for effective practice.
How is my work assessed?
Assessments have been designed to
incorporate practice issues to reflect work
based learning opportunities. Assessment is
undertaken via written assignments and an
open book exam in the case of Law and
Social Policy.
Feedback to you on your personal, professional
and academic development will be given to you
in a variety of ways:
Through personal development; in discussion
with your personal tutor you will plan
and record the identification of strengths,
challenges and opportunities.
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
Through tutorials with your personal tutor or
module co-ordinator.
During work-based learning you will provide
evidence for practice-based workbooks.
You will receive an electronic written
assessment feedback sheet for all assignments
with detailed comments identifying how you
have achieved the assessment grade and
indicating areas for development. This will
be done using the Faculty Degrees Scheme
assessment criteria for level 6 work.
What are my employability prospects?
The field of social work is broad and includes
working with individuals from a whole range
of backgrounds with differing experiences
as well as working in different settings. As
a social worker you will be required to work
with individuals and groups who are often
experiencing difficulty, who might be
vulnerable and therefore in need of support
and or protection.
Social work is a fast moving area of work. It
needs to change and adapt in order to ensure
its workforce can meet the demands of the
people who are in need. The PQ Child Care
degree prepares you for working within a
challenging environment and working with
professionals from other disciplines.
• END
Mental Health
PgCert/PgDip/MSc
 YEARS FULL TIME | PART-TIME
2
HEALTH | CITY NORTH CAMPUS
Getting started - what will I need?
Degree level qualification or the equivalent.
Practicing in the area of mental health.
Be qualified social workers, nurses,
occupational therapist, and psychologists
(Allied Health Professionals) who work in
mental health.
For principles for selection for entry onto the
programme please see www.bcu.ac.uk/health
or contact Robert Wu on 0121 331 5194 or
email Robert.wu@bcu.ac.uk
Tell me more...
The programme leading to the MSc Mental
Health places services users and carers at its
centre. It further promotes inter-professional
learning and working, which is reflected in
the content, development and delivery of
the course.
The Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip) in Mental
Health and the PgDip in Mental Health (Higher
Specialist Social Work) will prepare you to
undertake a specific role, of the Approved
Mental Health Professional (AMHP) under the
Mental Health Act 2007.
The programme has been developed in
collaboration with Birmingham City Council,
Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health
Trust and Service Carers and Users and it
incorporates inclusiveness ensuring the
principles of valuing diversity and equalities
are embedded in practice.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
What will I study? assessments will meet the learning outcomes
The content of the programme reflects the of the module.
requirements of the General Social Care
Council (GSCC) (2007), Department of Health Can I study further?

75
and the Mental Health Act 2007. Embedded Students who successfully complete the
within the content of the programme are the modules of study (100 credits at level 7)
key principles that are fundamental in ensuring required for an Approved Mental Health

Section Three Courses Health and Social Care

professionals have the relevant knowledge,
skills and values to work with users and carers
of mental health services.
A learner centred approach identifies
practitioner’s developmental needs in a specific
mental health practice role and promotes
work-based learning to integrate academic
and practice learning. This will enable you to
examine and develop intellectual and practical
skills while still being employed.
Successful completion of the first five
modules (100 credits) will enable you to apply
for registration with local authorities and
undertake the role of an Approved Mental
Health Professional under the Mental Health
Act 2007.
Professional will be eligible to receive a
Transcript. A Transcript is defined by the
GSCC as evidence that candidates have
successfully completed an Approved Mental
Health Professional training programme.
This transcript will enable students to apply
for Approved Mental Health Professional
status with Local Authorities.
Those students wishing to can continue onto
the PgDip Mental Health, the PgDip/Higher
Specialist Social Work Award in Mental Health
or onto the MSc Mental Health.
• END

Modules studied include Values in Mental

Health; Role of the Approved Mental Health
Professional; The Legal and Policy
Framework for Mental Health; Deprivation
of Liberty Safeguards; Specialist Practice
Areas; Research, Theory and Practice;
and the Dissertation.

You will also complete 45 days of assessed

practice in statutory mental health settings
within local authorities and Mental
Health Trusts. 

How is my work assessed?

Each module has its own self-contained
summative assessment requirements.
Summative assessments will take place
with academic and practice modules. The

How can I get more info?

T: 0121 331 5500
F: 0121 331 6360
E: health@bcu.ac.uk
W: www.bcu.ac.uk/health

Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk

 Electronic Commerce
PgCert/PgDip/MSc 
76
FULL-TIME 16/19 MONTHS | PART-TIME 32 MONTHS
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Section Three Courses Logistics
Getting started - what will I need?
See page 286 of the current prospectus for
standard entry requirements.
If you do not hold the standard entry
requirements you may be considered for
admission provided you can satisfy the course
director and relevant module tutors that your
qualifications and/or industrial experience
are sufficient.
Tell me more...
The exponential growth of the Internet has had
a significant impact on business practices and
is becoming increasingly important to modern
commerce. Internet commerce provides
companies with a new competitive arena with
a high growth rate.
What will I study?
The course consists of four major modules and
the Master’s (MSc) project.
The successful completion of two modules
leads to the award of Postgraduate Certificate
(PgCert). Completion of two further modules
leads to the award of Postgraduate Diploma
(PgDip) and the completion of the project leads
to the MSc.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
The four modules are: How is my work assessed?
• Integrated Project and Process Management: The main emphasis of the assessment 
• Managing Projects strategy is to highlight the need for effective
• Managing Operations  communication of thoughts and ideas within 
• Marketplace Positioning and Supply Chain a professional engineering environment. 
Integration
Accordingly, project reports, record keeping
Resource Management: and oral presentations are used extensively 
• Financial Management for assessment purposes as well as time-
• Human Resource Management constrained tests and other approaches 
• Information Technology Capability as appropriate.
Global Trade and Marketing:  Can I study further?
• Purchasing  The University can offer postgraduate research
• Trade Law for Logistics  (MPhil and PhD) programmes, details can be
• International Trade and Global Logistics  found at www.bcu.ac.uk/courses and on page
252 of the current prospectus.
e-Enabled Business Systems: 
• Merchandising Strategies  What are my employability prospects?
• Electronic Communication Typical routes to employment that could lead
• Web Site Design and Construction from this programme include:
• IT systems development
Master’s project • ICT
The MSc project provides an opportunity  • Communications
to apply knowledge gained during study to a • Marketing
substantial problem. This will test your ability • Technical sales
to integrate and utilise skills learnt on • END
the course.
How can I get more info? Things to note...
T: 0121 331 5595 tic has forged powerful partnerships with
F: 0121 331 7994 leading global technology companies. This
E: choices@bcu.ac.uk ensures courses are vocationally focused
W: www.bcu.ac.uk/courses and up-to-date, developing skills that are
of immediate benefit to the workplace.
Logistics
PgCert/PgDip/MSc
FULL-TIME 16/19 MONTHS | PART-TIME 32 MONTHS
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Getting started - what will I need?
See page 286 of the current prospectus for
standard entry requirements.
If you do not hold the standard entry  • Marketplace Positioning and Supply
requirements you may be considered for
admission provided you can satisfy the course
director and relevant module tutors that your
qualifications and/or industrial experience
are sufficient.
Tell me more...
There is a growing market requirement
for practitioners and managers with the
necessary skills to identify and provide
solutions to a wide range of logistical problems.
This course will provide you with the skills
demanded by industry and commerce to take
advantage of opportunities in this area.
What will I study?
The course consists of four major modules
and the Master’s (MSc) project.
The successful completion of two modules
leads to the award of Postgraduate Certificate
(PgCert). Completion of two further modules
leads to the award of Postgraduate Diploma
(PgDip) and the completion of the project
leads to the MSc.
How do I apply?
Full-time LLB UCAS M100
Part-time Direct to Faculty
77
Section Three Courses Logistics
The four modules are: How is my work assessed?
Integrated Project and Process Management: The main emphasis of the assessment strategy is
• Managing Projects to highlight the need for effective communication
• Managing Operations  of thoughts and ideas within a professional
engineering environment. 
Chain Integration
Accordingly, project reports, record keeping
Resource Management: and oral presentations are used extensively 
• Financial Management for assessment purposes as well as time-
• Human Resource Management constrained tests and other approaches 
• Information Technology Capability as appropriate.
Distribution and Materials Management: Can I study further?
• Distribution Systems The University can offer postgraduate
• Materials Management research (MPhil and PhD) programmes,
• Modelling the Supply Chain details can be found at www.bcu.ac.uk/courses
and on page 252 of the current prospectus.
Logistics Systems Management: 
• Logistics Systems Design What are my employability prospects?
• Freight Transport and Warehouse Operations  Typical routes to employment that could
• Retail Logistics lead from this programme include:
• Logistics Systems Software Applications • Logistics analyst
• Supply chain management
Master’s project • Warehousing and transportation
The MSc project provides an opportunity  • Purchasing
to apply knowledge gained during study to a • END
substantial problem. This will test your ability
to integrate and utilise skills learnt on
the course.
How can I get more info? Things to note...
T: 0121 331 5595 Birmingham is a fabulous place to live and
F: 0121 331 7994 study. See pages 264-265 in the current
E: choices@bcu.ac.uk prospectus for more information on what
W: www.bcu.ac.uk/courses is on offer.
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
 Supply Chain Management

PgCert/PgDip/MSc  
78

FULL-TIME 16/19 MONTHS | PART-TIME 32 MONTHS

TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Section Three Courses Logistics

Getting started - what will I need?
See page 286 of the current prospectus for
standard entry requirements.
If you do not hold the standard entry
requirements you may be considered for
admission provided you can satisfy the course
director and relevant module tutors that your
qualifications and/or industrial experience
are sufficient.
Tell me more...
There is a growing market requirement for
practitioners and managers with the necessary
skills to identify and provide solutions to a
wide range of logistical problems. This course
will provide you with the skills demanded by
industry and commerce to take advantage
of opportunities in this area.
What will I study?
The course consists of four major modules and
the Master’s (MSc) project.
The successful completion of two modules
leads to the award of Postgraduate Certificate
(PgCert). Completion of two further modules
leads to the award of Postgraduate Diploma
(PgDip) and the completion of the project
leads to the MSc.
The four modules are:
• Integrated Project and Process Management:
• Managing Projects
• Managing Operations  for effective communication of thoughts
• Marketplace Positioning and Supply
• Chain Integration
Resource Management:
• Financial Management
• Human Resource Management
• Information Technology Capability
Distribution and Materials Management:
• Distribution Systems
• Materials Management
• Modelling the Supply Chain
Strategic Planning for the Supply Chain:
• Supply Chain Strategy
• Pipeline Management and Control
• Finance and Strategy Management
Master’s project
The project provides an opportunity to apply
knowledge gained during study to a substantial
problem. This will test your ability to integrate
and utilise skills learnt on the course.
How is my work assessed?
The main emphasis of the
assessment strategy is to highlight the need
and ideas within a professional engineering
environment. Accordingly, project reports,
record keeping and oral presentations are
used extensively for assessment purposes
as well as time-constrained tests and other
approaches as appropriate.
Can I study further?
The tic can offer postgraduate research (MPhil
and PhD) programmes, details can be found at
www.bcu.ac.uk/courses and on page 252 of the
current prospectus.
What are my employability prospects?
Typical routes to employment that could lead
from this programme include:
• Supply chain planning
• Supply chain management
• Warehousing and transportation
• Purchasing
• Supplier development
• END

How do I apply? How can I get more info? Things to note...

Direct to Faculty T: 0121 331 5595 tic is an integrated centre for learning and
F: 0121 331 7994 business support, with unique expertise in
E: choices@bcu.ac.uk the development of skills in both individuals
W: www.bcu.ac.uk/courses and across organisations.

Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk

Multimedia Design and Production
CERTIFICATE IN PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
PART-TIME VARIABLE
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Getting started - what will I need?
Whilst there are no formal education entry
requirements for the course, a good general
education is necessary, particularly with regard
to literacy and numeracy. Mature individuals
with relevant experience may also be eligible
for entry following an interview with the course
director. Please contact the tic on 0121 331
6400 to arrange an informal discussion.
Tell me more...
This course is well suited to those who have
an interest in developing production and
design skills in a broad range of digital media
technologies. It focuses on the use of media
production tools and technologies – primarily
for the creation of digital media artefacts such
as websites, multimedia applications and
presentations, digital video, DVD, flash video
development, digital images and electronic
documents. These have numerous applications
within entertainment, education, commerce
and industry.
What will I study?
The course comprises ten half modules that
can be selected from a choice of seventeen.
Half modules are typically delivered over three
days, one day per week for three consecutive
weeks however delivery can be flexible, with
weekend and evening options available.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
79
Section Three Courses Media, Multimedia and New Media
Optional modules include: Can I study further?
• Desktop Publishing The course provides an introduction to higher
• DVD Authoring level study and also provides progression
• Digital Video Editing and Production opportunities for further study/qualifications
• Introduction to 3D Modelling at foundation and/or degree level.
• Motion Graphics and Video Effects
• Multimedia Scripting What are my employability prospects?
• Flash Video Development Continuing professional development is
• Introduction to MAX/MSP essential either for those in employment
• MAX/MSP with Jitter or those seeking employment. The ongoing
• Computer Animation advancement of new technologies and
associated techniques makes the need to
Course modules are scheduled to enable you update skills paramount in the quest for
to select those appropriate to your individual career advancement.
needs, thus permitting the programme to be • END
studied in either a short or extended time scale.
Duration is variable depending on the mode of
delivery. Typically, it will be one academic year
for a day-release student but no more than five
years from enrolment.
How is my work assessed?
A range of assessment methods is used
throughout the course including continuous
assessment, in-class tests, examinations,
laboratory exercises and project work. Using
these methods, your all-round ability will be
appraised, thus providing you with the best
opportunity to excel.
How can I get more info? Things to note...
T: 0121 331 5595 A new sound and television studio complex
F: 0121 331 7994 has recently been added to tic’s already
E: choices@bcu.ac.uk extensive media-technology resources.
W: www.bcu.ac.uk/courses
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
 Sound Engineering And Production
CERTIFICATE IN PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
80
PART-TIME VARIABLE
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Section Three Courses Media, Multimedia and New Media
Getting started - what will I need?
Whilst there are no formal education entry
requirements for the course, a good general
education is necessary, particularly with regard
to literacy and numeracy. Mature individuals
with relevant experience may also be eligible
for entry following an interview with the course
director. Please contact the tic on 0121 331
6400 to arrange an informal discussion.
Tell me more...
This course is suited to those who have
an interest in working with music/sound
technology. Sound engineering, sound
production and related technologies are areas
of substantial demand within the multimedia
market. The constant need for sound design,
combined with the reproduction of both live and
recorded sounds has created a requirement for
highly trained professionals with the necessary
knowledge to facilitate successful projects.
What will I study?
The content and structure of the course
reflects the overall philosophy of integrating
technological and creative aspects of sound
engineering, sound production, events
management, record production and the
music industry.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
There are six broad themes covering Sound Can I study further?
Production, Synthesis, Sound Engineering, The course provides an introduction to higher
Sound Recording, Home Studio Design and level study and also provides progression
Composition, Max/MSP, Jitter and DSP. opportunities for further study/qualifications at
foundation and/or degree level.
The course comprises thirteen half modules
of which you must study ten. Half modules are What are my employability prospects?
typically delivered over three days, one day a Continuing professional development is
week for three consecutive weeks; however essential either for those in employment
delivery can be flexible with weekend and or those seeking employment. The ongoing
evening options available. advancement of new technologies and
associated techniques makes the need to
Course modules are scheduled to enable you update skills paramount in the quest for
to select those appropriate to your individual career advancement.
needs, thus permitting the programme to be • END
studied in either a short or extended time scale.
Duration is variable depending on the mode of
delivery. Typically, it will be one academic year
for a day release student but no more than five
years from enrolment.
How is my work assessed?
A range of assessment methods is used
throughout the course including continuous
assessment, in-class tests, examinations,
laboratory exercises and project work. Using
these methods, your all-round ability will be
appraised, thus providing you with the best
opportunity to excel.
How can I get more info? Things to note...
T: 0121 331 5595 tic is located at Millennium Point in the
F: 0121 331 7994 heart of Birmingham City Centre. The
E: choices@bcu.ac.uk £114m development provides some of
W: www.bcu.ac.uk/courses the best resources in the country.
Digital Video Production
CERTIFICATE IN PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
PART-TIME 1 YEAR
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Getting started - what will I need?
Whilst there are no formal educational entry
requirements for the course, a good level of
general education is necessary, particularly
with regard to literacy and numeracy. Mature
individuals with relevant experience, and who
may have had a lengthy break from study
might also be eligible for entry following an
interview with the course director. Please
contact the tic on 0121 331 6400 to arrange
an informal discussion.
Tell me more...
This course aims to develop technical
knowledge and practical skills in digital
video production. It reflects the diverse range
of applications for digital video in modern
media, satisfying those wanting to learn video
production for the first time, as well as existing
video professionals looking to leverage and
diversify their skills.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
What will I study?
This course consists of five core half modules:
• Camera, Sound and Lights
• Digital Video Editing
• DVD Authoring
• Motion Graphics and Video Effects
• Production Planning and Scheduling
A further two and a half optional modules (or
equivalent) must be studied to successfully
complete the course. These can be
selected from:
• Commissioning Strategies and Funding
• Digital Video Editing and Production
• Documentary Production
• Flash Video Development
• Introduction to 3D modelling
• Introduction to Computer Animation
• Introduction to Multimedia Authoring
• Introduction to Sound Production
• Introduction to TV Studio Production
• Sound Recording for Media
• Writing for Media
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 5595
F: 0121 331 7994
E: choices@bcu.ac.uk
W: www.bcu.ac.uk/courses
81
Section Three Courses Media, Multimedia and New Media
How is my work assessed?
A range of assessment methods is used
throughout the course including continuous
assessment, in-class tests, examinations,
laboratory exercises and project work. Using
these methods, your all-round ability will be
appraised, thus providing you with the best
opportunity to excel.
Can I study further?
The course provides an introduction to higher
level study and also provides progression
opportunities for further study/qualifications
at foundation and/or degree level.
What are my employability prospects?
Continuing professional development is
essential either for those in employment
or those seeking employment. The ongoing
advancement of new technologies and
associated techniques makes the need to
update skills paramount in the quest for
career advancement.
• END
Things to note...
tic provides cutting-edge resources
and specialised knowledge structures
to meet the needs of a rapidly developing
technology-based society.
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
 Media Production Management
CERTIFICATE IN PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
82
PART-TIME 1 YEAR
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION CENTRE (TIC) | MILLENNIUM POINT
Section Three Courses Media, Multimedia and New Media
Getting started - what will I need?
Whilst there are no formal educational entry
requirements for the course, a good level of
general education is necessary, particularly
with regard to literacy and numeracy. Mature
individuals with relevant experience, and who
may have had a lengthy break from study might
also be eligible for entry following an interview
with the course director. Please contact the
tic on 0121 331 6400 to arrange an
informal discussion.
Tell me more...
Media projects are often complex undertakings,
combining a wide variety of different skills.
This course aims to support those working
in a variety of industries and settings, by
developing an understanding and practical
knowledge of managing and implementing
media production projects.
What will I study?
This course consists of two core half modules
– Media Project Management and Production
Planning and Scheduling. A further four
optional modules (or equivalent) must be
studied to successfully complete the course.
How do I apply?
Direct to Faculty
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
These can be selected from:
• Commissioning Strategies and Funding
• Creative Thinking
• Digital Video Editing and Production
• Event Management
• Human Computer Interaction
• Human Resources in Media
• Introduction to Web Design and Production
• Marketing for Media
• Media Asset Management
• Media Business Development
• Media Law
• Planning and Finance
• Writing for Media
How is my work assessed?
A range of assessment methods is used
throughout the course including continuous
assessment, in-class tests, examinations,
laboratory exercises and project work. Using
these methods, your all-round ability will be
appraised, thus providing you with the best
opportunity to excel.
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 5595
F: 0121 331 7994
E: choices@bcu.ac.uk
W: www.bcu.ac.uk/courses
Can I study further?
The course provides an introduction to higher
level study and also provides progression
opportunities for further study/qualifications
at foundation and/or degree level.
What are my employability prospects?
Continuing professional development is
essential either for those in employment
or those seeking employment. The ongoing
advancement of new technologies and
associated techniques makes the need to
update skills paramount in the quest for
career advancement.
• END
Things to note...
You can speak to one of our course
advisors if you are unsure of the right
course for you, call 0121 331 5595 for
more info.
Jazz
GradDip
FULL-TIME 1 YEAR | PART-TIME 2 YEARS
BIRMINGHAM CONSERVATOIRE | CITY CENTRE
Getting started - what will I need?
You should possess a good Bachelor’s degree
or equivalent. While it is not necessary to
demonstrate advanced skills in jazz, you
should be able to demonstrate at audition/on
your audition recording an appropriate level
of instrumental fluency, as well as evidence
of understanding common improvisatory
processes in jazz.
Head of Jazz – Jeremy Price
Course Director – Hans Koller
Visiting Artist in Residence - Dave Holland
Lecturers include – Liam Noble, Julian Siegel
and Mike Williams
Tell me more...
This one-year conversion course offers
intensive training in practical jazz skills for
graduates who have a strong interest in jazz but
have not received specialist jazz musicianship
training or one-to-one tuition in jazz
performance. Alongside the development of
solid generic musical and academic skills, you
will have participated in ensemble activities as
a jazz performer and may also have undertaken
some academic modules in jazz as part of your
previous study.
What will I study?
The course will help you develop skills for use
at a professional level through a combination
of specialist one-to-one tuition with a variety
of tutors (40 hours in total) plus small group
coaching, performance workshops, repertoire
classes and jazz musicianship.
How do I apply?
CUKAS institution code B34
CUKAS course code 410F/41OP
Individual tuition is available for frontline
instruments – trumpet, trombone and
saxophone, and for rhythm section – piano,
guitar, bass and drums. Other lead instruments
such as voice, flute and violin are available
by negotiation. You will be familiar with our
jazz tutors from gig listings and international
festivals – all are busy freelance performers.
A quick search on the web will show that many
are also recorded artists, band leaders and
commissioned writers.
Practical activities are underpinned by a
programme of academic work designed
to develop your contextual knowledge and
skills. Modules include composition, analysis,
contemporary issues and professional
development. You may also take part in the
broad programme of practical elective activities
offered at the Conservatoire, which includes
several world music ensembles, community
music, classical music, journalism, etc.
Large performing ensembles include our
Big Band and Jazz Orchestra and there are
frequent performance opportunities for
small groups in our lunchtime and evening
concert series. You will benefit from our close
relationship with Birmingham Jazz and its
Artistic Director, Tony Dudley-Evans, who
regularly provides our senior students with
feedback on their performances.
In addition to acting as a useful stand-alone
course for musicians wishing to develop their
professional skills, the Graduate Diploma in
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 5901
F: 0121 331 5906
E: conservatoire@bcu.ac.uk
W: www.conservatoire.bcu.ac.uk
83
Section Three Courses Music
Jazz offers ideal preparation for those wishing
to study jazz at postgraduate level.
How is my work assessed?
A variety of assessment methods is used,
including performances, seminars and essays.
Can I study further?
The Conservatoire’s postgraduate courses in
jazz include a Postgraduate Certificate in jazz
performance and a Postgraduate Diploma/
Master of Music programme, available in
either Jazz Performance or Jazz Composition.
Research degrees (MPhil or PhD) are
also available.
What are my employability prospects?
Today, careers in music are typically varied
and your career is most likely to draw upon
numerous aspects of the music business
rather than a single area. Typical areas
to pursue include performing, either as a
member of an established group or through
your own projects; teaching; publishing; or
events promotion. In particular, Jazz Education
(including teaching and the publishing of
educational material) is a growth area within
mainstream music education.
• END
Things to note...
The Conservatoire’s 2009 Open Days are
22 January and 19 June, both 10am – 4pm.
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
 Music
PgDip/MMus
84
FULL-TIME 1 YEAR | PART-TIME 2 YEARS
BIRMINGHAM CONSERVATOIRE | CITY CENTRE
Section Three Courses Music
Getting started - what will I need?
For the Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip), you
should normally possess at least a lower
second class Honours degree, with at least
60 per cent in your first study area.
For the Master of Music (MMus), you should
normally possess at least an upper second
class Honours degree, with at least 60 per
cent in your first study area.
You will also need to demonstrate at your
audition and/or interview that you possess
skills in your specialist area appropriate to
your chosen course.
Tell me more...
Designed for recent graduates and suitable
mature students, these two taught postgraduate
courses provide the opportunity for the further
specialised study of performance, composition,
jazz or community music at an advanced level,
or initial studies in musicology.
What will I study?
PgDip
The PgDip offers specialist study in four areas:
Performance, Composition, Music Technology,
and Jazz (the latter with either performance
or composition as principal study). Over the
duration of your course you will receive 40
hours of specialist tuition, which is normally
available on a one-to-one basis. In each area,
support lectures and seminars are
How do I apply?
CUKAS institution code B34
CUKAS course code 600 F/P; 800 F/P
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
provided in relevant academic studies. For
your convenience, core classes are normally
scheduled on one day in the week. Performance
classes and opportunities for student
composers are offered on a regular basis.
Underpinning first study and academic work is
a Professional Portfolio module. This takes the
form of tutorials that help to guide the design
of a programme of supporting activities in the
context of your career aspirations.
You may take part in the broad programme of
practical activities offered at the Conservatoire
and, normally, audition for places in orchestras,
choirs, bands and other activities alongside
undergraduate students. If you are a vocal
student, you will also undertake a specially
devised programme of support studies,
including languages and stagecraft. You will
negotiate your own programme of these
optional activities in the light of your individual
profile as a musician.
MMus
The MMus embraces the PgDip studies and
opportunities described above, with a fifth
possible area of specialism in Musicology,
which includes a significant element of
individual research. An additional MMus
study module offers a choice of four different
areas for further in-depth study. MMus
students also attend a taught programme on
Musical Aesthetics and Philosophy, as well as
research seminars.
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 5901
F: 0121 331 5906
E: conservatoire@bcu.ac.uk
W: www.conservatoire.bcu.ac.uk
How is my work assessed?
You will be assessed through a variety of
methods, including coursework, written
assignments and viva voce, according to your
area of concentration. Additionally, performers
(including jazz performers) undertake a recital,
composition students submit a final portfolio,
musicology students write a dissertation and
community music students undertake a
major project.
Can I study further?
Both courses are suitable as stand-alone
study or as preparation for our Advanced
Postgraduate Diploma in Music (Professional
Performance). The MMus is a fitting
preparation for a research degree programme.
What are my employability prospects?
Today, careers in music are typically varied
and your career is most likely to draw upon
numerous aspects of the music business
rather than a single area. Typical areas
to pursue include performing, either as a
member of an established group or through
your own projects; teaching; publishing; or
events promotion. In particular, Jazz Education
(including teaching and the publishing of
educational material) is a growth area within
mainstream music education.
• END
Things to note...
Don’t forget, applications for this
course are due 1 October in the year
prior to entry.
Music (Specialist Performance)
PgCert
FULL-TIME 1 YEAR
BIRMINGHAM CONSERVATOIRE | CITY CENTRE
Getting started - what will I need?
You should possess a good first (Bachelor’s)
degree. You will need to demonstrate at
audition that you possess appropriate skills in
your chosen specialist area. IELTS 5.5 / TOEFL
71 (iBT) or equivalent.
Tell me more...
This is an intensive new course offering one
year of focused study in performance or jazz
performance only.
What will I study?
Designed to sit between our successful part-
time Postgraduate Certificate (PgCert) (Music
Performance) and Postgraduate Diploma
(PgDip) courses, the PgCert (Specialist
Performance) is a full-time course offering
40 hours of individual specialist tuition
culminating in a substantial final performance,
but without the academic content of the PgDip.
The course is ideal for musicians performing
at PgCert level, who want to develop their
repertoire, technique and stamina.
As with all our postgraduate programmes,
alongside your individual tuition, you will
undertake a Professional Portfolio module:
a negotiated programme of activities which
support your first study, help you to build
a unique profile as a musician and help
to prepare you for professional life. Your
activities may be drawn from our extensive
How do I apply?
CUKAS institution code B34
CUKAS course code 501F
85
Section Three Courses Music
musicianship electives programme, ensemble
or specialist performance programmes. If you
are an international student, your Professional
Portfolio activities might include further tuition
in English language for academic purposes.
How is my work assessed?
Assessment will consist of a Preliminary
Performance exam in January, the submission
of the Professional Portfolio in May and a
50-minute recital in May/June.
Can I study further?
The PgCert (Specialist Performance) is suitable
as a stand-alone course, or as preparation
for further postgraduate study, including our
PgDip/MMus or Advanced PgDip in Music
(Professional Performance) and Advanced
PgDip courses.
What are my employability prospects?
Today, careers in music are typically varied,
drawing upon numerous aspects of the music
business rather than a single area. Typical
areas to pursue include performing, either as
a member of an established group or through
your own projects; teaching; composition or
arranging; publishing and events promotion.
• END
How can I get more info? Things to note...
T: 0121 331 5901 The Conservatoire holds international
F: 0121 331 5906 auditions in China, Taiwan, Kuala
E: conservatoire@bcu.ac.uk Lumpur and Singapore.
W: www.conservatoire.bcu.ac.uk
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
 Radiography

PgCert/PgDip/MSc 
86

PgCert PART-TIME 1 - 3 YEARS | PgDip PART-TIME 2 - 5 YEARS | MSc PART-TIME 3 - 6 YEARS

HEALTH | CITY NORTH CAMPUS
Section Three Courses Radiography

Getting started - what will I need? Postgraduate Certificate in

• You should possess a Diploma of
the College of Radiographers, BSc in
Diagnostic/Therapeutic Radiography or
equivalent qualification.
• You should be currently practising, with at
least two years’ post-qualification experience
as a radiographer. Candidates for the named
Postgraduate Certificate (PgCert) awards
must also have a clinical supervisor within
their own department who is willing to
support them through the course, together
with written approval from the Trust or
hospital employing them for clinical practice.
Computed Tomography
This pathway is offered to radiographers
who work in CT scanning and is a desired
qualification for radiographers who wish to
run or supervise CT scanning departments. It
is designed to support you in the development
of skills necessary to undertake such a role.
It is delivered over two-three day blocks for
a total of 17 days over a period of 12 months.
You will complete a record of clinical practice
and carry out work-based projects/
case studies.
• END

Tell me more...
The courses are designed to enable you
to evaluate the relationship between
technology, managerial responsibility
and policy. As increasing emphasis is
being placed on hospital-based research
to support evidence-based practice, the
courses also aim to enhance your abilities
to critically evaluate research findings to
benefit service provision.

How do I apply? How can I get more info? Things to note...

GM705C Advanced CT applications T: 0121 331 5595 Students are Birmingham City University
(double module) F: 0121 331 7994 are among the first in the country to use a
GM705D Advanced CT imaging science E: choices@bcu.ac.uk virtual reality system to learn how to treat
(double module) W: www.bcu.ac.uk/courses patients with cancer.

Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk

Psychology
BSc (HONOURS)
FULL-TIME 3 YEARS | PART-TIME 5 YEARS
EDUCATION, LAW AND SOCIAL SCIENCES | CITY NORTH CAMPUS
> Tariff score 280 (excluding Key Skills)
Getting started - what will I need?
For standard and equivalent entry requirements
see page 286 of the current prospectus.
You will also need at least four GCSEs including
English and Maths at grade C or above.
Mature applicants with non-standard or Access
to Higher Education course qualifications are
encouraged to apply.
Tell me more...
Psychology is the study of how individuals
behave, think, perceive and interact with the
world around them as well as the impact others
have can have on the individual. This course
will enable you to explore the prevention and
analysis of human behaviour from the many
perspectives within psychology and teach you
to reach valid possible conclusions.
What will I study?
Studying psychology with Birmingham City
University gives you the chance to benefit from
the expertise of specialist departments across
the whole university who have vast experience
in the field of psychology and are being brought
together in this single honours degree.
To tailor your degree you will be able to choose
optional modules within the areas of: Health
Psychology, Criminal and Forensic Psychology,
Business and Organisational Psychology, and
Research and Psychology.
How do I apply?
Full-time UCAS C800
Part-time Direct to Faculty
Typical modules include: Research Methods;
Historical and Conceptual Issues in Psychology;
Cognitive Psychology; Introduction to Abnormal
Psychology; Health Psychology; Developmental
Psychology; Qualitative Research Methods;
Criminal and Forensic Psychology; Individual
Differences; Quantitative Research Methods;
Counselling and Communication; Social
Psychology; Neuropsychology; Business
Psychology; and Occupational Psychology.
In your final year you will carry out independent
study into an area of psychology of your choice,
this is of particular benefit if you wish to go on
to further specialist postgraduate study. Staff
on the course will each be specialists within
one of the particular areas and will have links
with professions relating to all four areas.
Placement
You will have the option of undertaking work
experience during your final year. This will
equip you with relevant work experience in
your field of interest.
As well as options in Sociology and Psychology,
you have the opportunity to study modules
offered on other programmes within the
Faculty, such as Criminal Justice and English.
These options enable you to build up a profile of
subjects best suited to their personal interests.
How is my work assessed?
Assessment is through a variety of methods
including coursework and examinations with
a Dissertation requirement in the final stage.
How can I get more info?
T: 0121 331 5595
F: 0121 331 7994
E: choices@bcu.ac.uk
W: www.bcu.ac.uk/courses
87
Section Three Courses Social Sciences
All assessments will require you to use your
communication and research skills to
solve problems.
Can I study further?
You can progress to postgraduate courses in
related fields such as: MSc Counselling and
Psychotherapy, MA Criminology and MPhil
or PhD research degrees.
What are my employability prospects?
A Psychology degree opens up a range of
career opportunities for graduates. Within the
psychology field you can become a qualified
psychologist, leading to roles like clinical,
educational or forensic psychologist. This
degree will also equip you with transferable
skills that can lead to any number of careers,
from human resources and counselling
to teaching.
• END
Things to note...
Birmingham is a fabulous place to live
and study. See pages 264-265 in the
current prospectus for more information
on what is on offer.
Get more at www.bcu.ac.uk
Birmingham City University is the new name for the University of Central England in Birmingham (UCE Birmingham)