2010-2011 Postgraduate Programmes Handbook

Oscail
Online Postgraduate Programmes Handbook 2010/2011

Programme Structure
o Master of Science in Management of Operations Master of Science in Information Systems for Managers
o Master of Science in Internet Systems o Master of Science in Management for Sustainable

Development
Contents
Online Postgraduate Programmes Handbook.............................................. 1 Contents ........................................................................................... 2 Online Postgraduate Programmes ......................................................... 4 Introduction.................................................................................... 4 Online Distance Education................................................................. 4 Programme Development ................................................................. 4 Duration of Courses ......................................................................... 4 Academic Year ................................................................................ 5 Hours of Study ................................................................................ 5 Personal Computing Requirements ..................................................... 5 Online Tutorial Support .................................................................... 5 Reading ......................................................................................... 5 Assessment .................................................................................... 5 Completion of Assignment Cover Sheet...5 Late Submission .............................................................................. 5 Assignment Mark..8 Reviewing Assignment Marks.8 Supplemental Assignments.8 Repeating Assignments..8 Plagiarism9 Absence and Deferral...9 Leave of Absence10 Dissertation Regulations.10 e-Services .....................................................................................13 Student Support Services ................................................................15 Library Services .............................................................................17 Post Graduate Courses at Oscail, Dublin City University ..........................18 Management of Operations (MOPSA) ....................................................19 Awards available: ...........................................................................19 Programme Aims:...........................................................................19 Programme Outcomes:....................................................................19 Programme Structure, Content and Duration ......................................19 Programme Overview......................................................................20 Assessment and Awards ..................................................................21 Master of Science in Information Systems Strategy (MISS)......................23 Awards available: ...........................................................................23 Programme Aims ............................................................................23 Programme Outcomes .....................................................................23 Programme Structure, Content and Duration ......................................23 Programme Overview......................................................................25 Assessment and Awards ..................................................................26 Master of Science in Internet Systems (MSISA) .....................................26 Awards available: ...........................................................................27 Programme Aims ............................................................................27 Programme Outcomes .....................................................................27 Programme Structure, Content and Duration ......................................27 Programme Overview......................................................................29 Assessment and Awards ..................................................................30 Master of Science in Management for Sustainable Development (MSD) .....26 Awards available: ...........................................................................27 Programme Aims ............................................................................27
Programme Outcomes .....................................................................27 Programme Structure, Content and Duration ......................................27 Programme Overview......................................................................29 Assessment and Awards ..................................................................30 Appendices .......................................................................................30 Appendix 1 Module Syllabi ...............................................................32 Appendix 2 Election of Student to Programme Board ...........................39 Appendix 3 Harvard Referencing System............................................40
Online Postgraduate Programmes

Introduction
This handbook outlines rules and procedures for online postgraduate programmes presented by Oscail at Dublin City University. This first section covers general rules and procedures which apply to all programmes, while specific details for each programme are to be found in the relevant section dealing with that programme. The following post graduate programmes are offered by Oscail:
Master of Science in Management of Operations. Master of Science in Information Systems Strategy Master of Science in Internet Systems. Master of Science in Management for Sustainable Development
Online Distance Education

Oscail programmes are delivered through distance education, with a special emphasis on online methods. These methods are particularly suited to continuing professional development programmes. They enable participants to combine formal study with work and domestic commitments. They also enable participants to exercise a high degree of control over their study when, where and how the study is conducted. This means that Oscail programmes are particularly suited to mature students. Online distance education widens access by reducing or eliminating problems of timing and location often encountered by mature students. Oscails postgraduate programmes employ specially written course texts, supplemented by prescribed textbooks and access to web-based resources. Each programme module is assessed through a series of online exercises and written assignments. Each student who progresses to the final stage of the Masters programmes described in this handbook is required to submit a research dissertation.
Programme Development
Each online postgraduate programme is developed under the direction of a Programme Board, approved by the Academic Council of Dublin City University (DCU). Members of the Programme Board are drawn the writers of the course materials, tutors and dissertation supervisors and may also include representation from relevant professional bodies and from industry, as appropriate. The Chair of the Post Graduate Programmes Board is responsible for the academic direction of the programme in conjunction with the programme board. Course writers undertake the writing of course modules, assisted in this task by editors with specialist expertise in the design of distance education texts.
Duration of Courses
Normally students complete the taught element of a postgraduate programme over two years and may undertake the research element (i.e. the dissertation) from February to July of the second year. Students can also postpone registering for the dissertation until their third year, if they wish. In accordance with Academic Regulations, students are permitted four years of registration to complete the programme, subject to Programme Board approval. In such cases, the Programme Board may require a candidate to submit additional work in areas where the course content may have changed over the period.
Academic Year
The Academic Year at Oscail for 2010/2011 runs from September 2010 until the end of July 2010. There are no end-of-year examinations on the programme.
Hours of Study
For the taught element of a programme, students normally study for about fifteen to twenty hours per week for the duration of the academic year. However, this can vary considerably depending on students personal circumstances and prior knowledge.
Personal Computing Requirements

As the programmes are delivered online, students are required to provide for themselves a modern personal computer and associated software, with full Internet access through a service provider. This is needed to access course materials and to participate in course activities. A broadband connection is strongly recommended.
Online Tutorial Support

All students are registered on an online Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), currently Moodle. In Moodle, students can communicate with tutors and with fellow students in their tutorial group and participate in online group discussion forums. Tutors may suggest appropriate online (and offline) resources to supplement course texts. They may also input discussion items or online exercises. Except where privacy is an issue, all communication between students and online tutors takes place in the online group discussion forums. Students may also make use of online chat facilities. You should also make yourself fully aware of the universities code of conduct on the use of computing resources found at http://www.dcu.ie/info/regulations/computing.shtml.
Reading
Specially prepared course notes are available for each module, presented through Moodle. These may be read online or downloaded and printed out for offline access, if this is more convenient. The course notes replace the lecture in a traditional campusbased programme. In order to succeed in these programmes, students need to read beyond the course notes. For most modules, required reading is prescribed and students may be expected to purchase a prescribed text. In addition to the required reading, students will also find a list of recommended texts. While not essential, the recommended reading provides additional information or insights in relation to module topics. As is the norm for any post graduate student, you will also be expected from time to time to locate relevant sources yourself. A valuable resource in this regard is the DCU library which has a large e-resources section where full text journal articles are available online.
Assessment
Assessment of student academic performance is undertaken by the evaluation of assignments, which afford considerable scope for the development of knowledge and skills in the context of active learning. Taken across the programme as a whole, students will be expected to exercise a range of skills in researching, preparing and presenting course assignments. Assignments will demand information-seeking strategies and critical and analytical skills. Required modes of presentation will include analyses, reviews, reports, graphics, summaries, slide presentations, web postings and the use of various IT tools and applications. Some assignments require participation in online forums and reflective practice. Some assignments may also require you to work in a group.
While assignment results contribute to overall assessment for the course, their primary role is to develop critical skills and active learning and to provide an opportunity for students to receive feedback from their tutors. Assignment specifications are posted in the appropriate area within the VLE (Moodle) at least four weeks before their due date. In all modules students are required to complete three or four continuous assessment assignments. Further details on course specific assessment are included under the individual programme information. Students submit completed assignments to the dropbox facility of the VLE. The tutor assesses the assignments and then places feedback comments and a mark for each assignment in the dropbox within four weeks following the assignment deadline. It is a requirement that students make use of relevant PC tools in preparing their assignments, such as spreadsheets and word processors, including use of drawing, charting and presentation tools. Word-processing of assignments is a minimum requirement. To avoid compatibility problems, Microsoft Office tools (e.g. MS-Word and MS-Excel) are generally preferred. Students must submit all parts of an assignment at one time and not as partassignments on separate occasions, unless specifically required, and they must adhere to the submission deadlines specified in the course calendar. There is a standard protocol for naming assignments which must be strictly adhered to. The following format must be used: FirstnameLastnameModulecode_Assignmentnumber.doc For example, the first assignment from Joe Bloggs for Module OSC1 is: JoeBloggsOSC1_1.doc
Completion of Assignment Cover Sheet

The following information should be contained on a cover sheet accompanying each assignment: 1. Your student identification number. 2. Your name and full address. 3. The number of the assignment and the module to which it belongs. (You will find this information on the assignment specification.) 4. The date you are submitting the assignment this date should be the actual date you place the assignment in the dropbox. 5. Confirm that the work is your own by including the following statement: I certify that this assignment is my own work and I have not copied the work of any other student or individual and I have credited all my sources.
Late Submission
Assignments must be submitted by the specified submission due date. If contacted before the assignment due date a tutor has the discretion to grant a student permission to submit an assignment up to a week late. Students must request an extension (maximum one week) from their tutor prior to the submission date.
Any assignment submitted after the maximum extension deadline of one week must be submitted by post along with a letter giving the reasons for the assignment being late and supporting documentation. (For example a doctors certificate in the case of illness or a letter from an employer in the case of exceptional work commitments). It will not be possible to upload an assignment to Moodle more one week after the due date of the assignment. Late assignments will be marked and commented on by the tutor. The comments will be sent back to the student but not the mark. The letter and supporting documentation will be submitted to the next Programme Board Examination Review Committee (PBERC) and Progression and Awards Board (PAB). The PBERC will recommend to the PAB whether the assignment mark should be credited or not and the PAB will decide if the mark is to be credited. There is currently only one PAB for the postgraduate programmes, which is held in the autumn. Any late assignments submitted up until eight weeks before the summer PBERC will be considered at that PBERC. Any assignment submitted after this deadline and up to seven weeks before the autumn PAB will be considered at the autumn PAB. The final date for the submission of any assignment is seven weeks before the PAB. Submissions received beyond this deadline will not be accepted. It should be stressed that assignments submitted more than one week after the submission date will only be credited in truly exceptional circumstances. It is recommended that you discuss the circumstances surrounding the submission of assignments more than one week after the due date with the Student Advisors. If you wish to submit an assignment more than one week after its due date the assignment, a letter of explanation and verification documentation must be sent by post to: Late Assignments Programme Support, Oscail, Dublin City University, Dublin 9. Students should also obtain proof of postage for the late assignment. The only acceptable proof of postage is the official receipt available from An Post. It is the responsibility of the student to keep proof of postage and a copy of the assignment and all documentation. Please do not email assignments which you submitting more than one week after the due date to your tutor, as your tutor will not be able to mark it. The mark awarded by the summer PBERC will be deemed to be the mark for the first attempt at the module (unless a deferral has been granted). Therefore, where a student passes the module as a result of completing late assignments after eight weeks before the summer PBERC (or by passing the supplemental assignment), it is the mark awarded by the summer PBERC that will be deemed to be the first attempt mark and therefore used in the calculation of an award if that module mark is used (unless a deferral has been awarded). Tutors or other Oscail staff are not permitted under any circumstances to waive the above regulations in respect to the submission deadlines of assignments or any other form of continuous assessment.
Assignment Mark
Marks are awarded for each assignment submitted and make a contribution to the overall module mark according to the specific rules for the module concerned. A nonsubmitted assignment, or an assignment received more than one week after the due date, will normally be credited with a mark of zero, unless reinstated by the progression and award board. The assignment mark is calculated by averaging the assignment marks for each separate assignment required by the module. This average mark must be at least 40% in order to pass the module. All marks are provisional until approved at the progression and award board. This means that any mark received on line from your tutor may be subject to change by the external examiner for a cogent reason. Failure to submit an assignment will be classed as an attempt at that assignment unless a deferral has been granted. If the assignment is subsequently passed, the original assignment mark of 0 will be used to calculate the overall module mark.
Reviewing Assignment Marks

If a student wishes to request a review of the awarded mark for an assignment or to query any feedback comments made by the tutor, they must submit, within two weeks of receiving their results for the assignment, a completed Assignment Review Request Form to: Postgraduate Programme Support Assignment Review Request Form, Oscail, DCU, Dublin 9. The assignment will be reassessed by a tutor monitor for the subject. The tutor monitors decision is final. The Assignment Review Request Form is available on the Oscail website. APPEAL: Students have the right to appeal the decisions of a Progression and Award Board. Such appeals will be processed in accordance with the procedures detailed by Academic Council http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/regulations.shtml#14
Supplemental Assignments
A supplemental or re-sit assessment may be offered in an academic session to give students a second and separate opportunity to demonstrate that they have achieved the learning outcomes associated with a module. It does not require that a student repeats all the assessment components of the module; passed assessment component marks are carried forward. The maximum number of re-sit opportunities in any one academic session is one. The re-sit assessment may not be identical to the original assessment. Any re-sit opportunity must take place within the academic session and the results are recorded as an additional attempt. While the supplemental assignment must be passed, the mark used to calculate the module mark is the mark from the first attempt.
Repeating Assignments
A repeat attempt at a module requires that a student registers for that module (or its equivalent) in the next academic session. It also requires that a student repeats all the assessment components of the module; component marks from previous attempts are not carried forward. Students are only permitted to repeat a module once. Full fees must be paid to repeat a module.
Plagiarism
Plagiarism is a serious academic offence. This may involve copying another students work in part or in its entirety, or using substantial excerpts from other sources, such as textbooks, journal articles or the World Wide Web, without due acknowledgment of the source. Please note that, even if the assignment that you are undertaking would normally be carried out by taking material from a particular source (perhaps without due acknowledgement) this material must be attributed in academic work on this programme. For example, an assignment may require you to produce a presentation for management concerning a particular business issue. Though such a presentation in your workplace may not require that sources be fully referenced, your assignment must include complete and accurate references. The Harvard System is recommended for referencing. Searching the DCU library website for Citing & Referencing will give links to details on the Harvard System. Another useful source of information on referencing is Citing & Referencing: A Guide for Students which can be purchased at the Issue desk in the DCU library. A summary on the Harvard Referencing system is included as an appendix to this document. Where a tutor considers there is evidence of plagiarism in a students work, this will be reported to Oscail for appropriate disciplinary action in line with the universitys plagiarism policy. Software is now available to check whether students are plagiarising other peoples work. This software will be used on a random basis and also in the cases where plagiarism is suspected.
Absence and Deferral

Students should also make themselves aware of the difference between an absence and a deferral. Students who fail to submit an assignment for a module without informing Oscail will be given an Absent mark for that assignment, ie a mark of zero. This is also deemed to be an attempt at that assignment and includes the supplemental assignment, should one be offered, unless the Programme Board has recommended a deferral on foot of prior notified cogent reasons. Cogent reasons, including work commitments, must be backed up with supporting documentation, such as a letter from the students employer or a doctors certificate. It is essential that students who wish to defer make themselves aware of the conditions under which a deferral is allowed. Note: All fees are non-refundable. Students deferring a module will be liable for the full module fee at registration the following year. (Cases of serious financial hardship may be considered.) Students who register for modules and subsequently wish to discontinue their study of some, or all, of these modules, must submit a deferral request form (available on the Oscail website) and accompanying letter for permission to defer. The form should be sent to the Oscail Student Services Manager, giving their reasons for seeking a deferral. Such requests are considered by the Programme Board. All fees are nonrefundable and students deferring a module will have to pay the full module fee at registration the following year. Modules may normally be deferred once only; however, exceptional circumstances may be considered. If you are applying to defer a module for a second time, supporting documentation MUST accompany this application form. You will only be granted a deferral providing you are within the time limit allowed for the programme (currently four years of registration). Students who are not granted a deferral by the Programme Board (or who do not submit a request for deferral) will be deemed to have made an attempt at the module(s). The mark for the module will be calculated using the marks of the first
attempt. Additional deferral regulations are listed on the deferral form, available on the Oscail web site.
Leave of Absence
It is possible for students to take time out from their studies in a manner that is different to a deferral. A deferral is where a student has paid fees and wishes to defer modules for the remainder of that academic year. A leave of absence arises at the start of an academic year, where a student has not yet paid fees and wishes to take a year out. A Leave of Absence request will normally be granted by the Programme Board, provided that the student is within the time allowed for completion of their studies. On return to study full fees must be paid. Students may only take one years leave of absence. A Leave of Absence request must be submitted in writing to Programme Support for each year for which the leave of absence is requested. This Leave of Absence procedure will allow Oscail to keep track of students who are taking time out of their studies. It would also allow Oscail to inform the students of any major changes to the programme and the effect these would have on their completion of the programme.
Dissertation Regulations
Each student presenting for a Masters is required to produce a dissertation of approximately 20,000 words.
Nature of the Dissertation

The dissertation should be viewed as an opportunity to engage in independent research. It can be based on primary or secondary research compatible with coursework on the taught modules and in consultation with your dissertation supervisor. Primary research entails generating data not already available while secondary research involves drawing on material which is already available in published form.
Research Ethics
Students are obliged to comply with relevant research ethics, including the gaining of prior informed consent from research subjects. It is very important that you follow the research ethics guidelines outlined on the Oscail web site. Your research supervisor will also make you aware of the need to do so. Please refer to the document on Moodle for full details on Oscails Research Ethics Guidelines.
Purpose of Dissertation
The purpose of the dissertation is to enable students to develop their investigative and analytical skills and to undertake independent research under supervision. Students will be required to demonstrate competence in the critical study of their chosen topic and lucidity in the presentation of the results.
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Length of Dissertation
The required length of the dissertation is approximately 20,000 words. This limit must be observed in order to facilitate equitable assessment. Dissertations which substantially exceed 20,000 words may be penalised.
Time Required
The dissertation should be completed within one academic year. Students register for the dissertation for one academic year by paying the appropriate module fee. In the event that the dissertation cannot be completed within the year, students can register for a second year, and pay the full module fee. It is very important that if you are not going to submit your dissertation by the deadline then you must request a deferral and provide cogent reasons for seeking this deferral. Failure to do this will mean that you will have made an attempt at the dissertation module and you will be awarded a mark of 0 for that attempt. This mark of 0 will then be used to calculate your final award. If you are unsure about starting the dissertation, you are advised to request a leave of absence by completing the relevant form on the Oscail web site.
Structure
The following paragraphs outline general recommendations with respect to structure. However, each dissertation will be different and it is not always necessary to have correspondingly labelled sections. Introduction / Conceptualisation: In this section you formulate the research problem, set out your objectives, show how they relate to some theoretical framework and make a preliminary identification of information requirements. In other words: you present a concise initial statement of the what, the why and the how of your dissertation. Literature Review: This should provide a comprehensive summary and analysis of the critical literature on your chosen topic. Analytical sophistication in the process of information-gathering and synthesising is important here. Methodology: In the methodology section you describe the research procedure and methods and you discuss their rationale. Research/Analysis/Discussion/Reporting: The core of the dissertation is a presentation of research findings followed by discussion, analysis and evaluation of findings with respect to your research objectives. Conclusion: Summary of research findings, culminating in the final evaluation of your approach/argument/theoretical framework. Bibliography: This is a comprehensive list of books, essays, articles and websites consulted in the preparation of your dissertation. Layout must conform to the Harvard system of bibliographical reference. Searching the DCU library website for Citing & Referencing will give links to details on the Harvard System. Another useful source of information on referencing is Citing & Referencing: A Guide for Students which can be purchased at the Issue desk in the DCU library. A summary of the main requirements are included in Appendix 3 of this document.
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Assessment
Dissertations will be marked by two examiners an independent examiner (the first marker) and the dissertation supervisor (the second marker). An agreed mark will be presented to the Progression and Awards Board meeting. The criteria for assessing the dissertation include:
The structure, layout and presentation of the dissertation The scope, depth and quality of the literature review The appropriateness of the research methodology The extent to which the findings are original, comprehensive and in keeping with the original objectives
The Presentation of the Dissertation

The dissertation shall be word-processed and printed on one side only of good quality A4 size paper, one-and-a-half spaced, with a left-hand margin of not less than 40mm and all other margins not less than 20mm. Times New Roman 12 pt or equivalent is recommended. Pages must be numbered consecutively throughout the text, including those pages incorporating photographs or diagrams which are included as whole pages. Appendices should be named alphabetically, and each appendix consecutively but separately from the main text and from each other. paginated
Page numbers should be located centrally at the bottom of the page and about 10mm above the edge of the page. The dissertation shall contain a title page with the following information:
The full title of the dissertation, and subtitle, if any, and qualifications, if any, of the candidate. The qualification for which the work is presented. A dissertation submitted to Dublin City University in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of [Insert full degree title]. The name of the Supervisor. The name of the School/Faculty to which the candidate was attached, i.e. Oscail. The month and year of submission.
Immediately after the title page there shall be a single page containing the following declaration signed by the candidate: I hereby certify that this material, which I now submit for assessment on the programme of study leading to the award of [Insert full degree title] is entirely my own work and has not been taken from the work of others save and to the extent that such work has been cited and acknowledged within the text of my work
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Signed: _________________ (Candidate) Date:
Student Number: ______________
________________________
Please note: this declaration contains different wording to that used in the declaration that accompanies your assignments. This declaration shall be followed by the Table of Contents. The dissertation shall be accompanied by an abstract generally on a single page of not more than 300 words which should follow the Table of Contents. The abstract should be printed or typed in single spacing and should indicate the author and title of the thesis in the form of a heading.
Form in which the Dissertation is to be submitted

The candidate shall submit two soft bound printed copies of the dissertation in temporary binding to
Postgraduate Programme Support (Dissertation), Oscail, DCU, Dublin 9
An electronic copy must also be posted to the drop box on Moodle by the deadline. The copies in the soft bound format (eg spiral bound with a transparent cover) will be used for marking. Following the exam board, you will be asked to supply two hard bound copies professionally bound and in the correct colour. (Pantone Ref: 289). The bound copies shall have the following information on the front cover:
The title of the dissertation in at least 24pt (880mm) type. The initials and surname of the candidates. The award for which the dissertation is submitted. The year of submission.
The same information (excluding the title of the thesis) shall be printed in the same order in at least 24pt (80mm) type along the spine of the cover in such a way as to be easily legible. Oscail may place one copy of the dissertation in DCUs library and the second copy will be retained by Oscail.
e-Services
A number of e-Services are available to Oscail students. All students are issued with a computer username, e-mail address and password when they register for the first time. Students should familiarise themselves with DCUs Code of Conduct for users of DCUs computing resources. This is accessible through the website pages Student Information and through the Student Portals. Alternatively, it can be accessed at the address: http://www.dcu.ie/csd/regulations.html The Code of Conduct addresses what the University deems to be acceptable and unacceptable usage of the facilities and provides guidelines for good practice. In
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addition to general regulations and guidelines, it includes specific information on copyright, e-mail usage and Internet usage.
e-mail
All students are issued with a DCU e-mail account. You can access your e-mail account by going to the following web page: http://stumail.dcu.ie
You should then click on either of the following links: Web Mail Login You will be prompted for username and password in order to gain access to your e-mail account. There is provision within the e-mail system to change your password but this only applies to your e-mail account. You cannot change your password for access to Moodle or to your portal page (see below). Practically all contact between Oscail and students takes place via your DCU e-mail account. Students are asked to check their e-mail account at least twice a week; otherwise you may miss important information. Oscail will only communicate with students through their DCU e-mail accounts, or through Moodle, and will not communicate with any external e-mail address. If any student wants to receive e-mail correspondence at an address other than the DCU one, they must forward messages from their DCU address. Please note that it is an abuse of the e-mail to send denigrating or offensive messages about fellow students, tutors, members of Oscail staff or other DCU staff as such messages may cause offence to recipients. Disciplinary procedures may be applied to anybody doing so. If a student wishes to complain on any issue by e-mail then they should address it directly to the appropriate person at Oscail and not to the student body as a whole. Tutors also have DCU e-mail addresses. Students are required to contact tutors only at the email address provided by the tutor or through Moodle.
Portal Page
All students have password protected personal page, or portal page, containing personal information:
Name and address Modules registered for Tutor details for modules for which they are registered Tutorial group identifier (where applicable) Assignment marks for the current academic year Examination mark (after transcripts are issued)
To access these pages students must use the computer username and password provided. In addition, some downloadable files can be accessed via the portal pages.
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Moodle
Oscails online postgraduate programmes use a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) known as Moodle. The following are some of the major features of Moodle:
Course content delivered online. Course announcements. List of participants. Online discussion forums and chat rooms, for contact with tutors and fellow students. Online submission of course assignments.
In addition, the following information is available through Moodle.
Programme Handbooks Current assignments Programme timetables Assignment Regulations
You should regularly log into the Moodle system (three or four times a week) to keep in contact with your course.
DCU Online Library Support

DCU Library provides a range of online library services. See the Library's Home page for the services available at: http://www.dcu.ie/~library/index.html
The service of most relevance to distance education students is Accessing Databases and e-Journals from Home as this service allows registered students of DCU to access the full text of articles from a range of academic journals. For information on this service, please go to the following site: http://www.dcu.ie/~library/Eresources/databases-access.htm
This site will give you information on how to access the full-text online journals through the librarys e-resources. You will need your DCU computer username and password to use this service. If you are having any difficulty accessing the on-line journals please contact the library by email at library@dcu.ie or by telephone at 01-7005414.
Student Support Services

Distance Education is a flexible form of education, where the student has greater control over the timing and approach to study than is the case with conventional faceto-face education. However, students may run into difficulties in the absence of the support provided in conventional education. For example, they may have difficulties in understanding course content or in organising their time for study. In addition, distance students are generally adults with other work and domestic responsibilities and these can give rise to problems in relation to their studies. Oscail, recognising these difficulties, has developed a support system for its students which contain the following elements:
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Pre-enrolment advice Online tutorial support Contact groups Student Advisory service Evaluation and feedback mechanisms
Pre Enrolment Advice

All enquirers are provided with a pre-enrolment package comprising advice for applicants, programme details and an application form. Those requiring further information or advice are invited to contact the Student Advisors. (See details on the student advisory service below). Pre-enrolment counselling is provided either by telephone, or in Oscail, by appointment.
Online Tutorial Support

Students are allocated a tutor for each module undertaken. They communicate with tutors in an online learning environment, and they can also contact them by e-mail. The following are some of the functions of a tutor:
Assist students in developing their study skills Assess progress on the course, through assignments Provide feedback in the form of detailed written comments on assignments Help students with course-related problems
Online tutorial support takes a number of forms. In all forms, students are registered in an online learning environment (Moodle). In this environment, students can communicate with their tutor and with the other students in their tutorial group in online group discussion forums. Tutors may suggest appropriate online (and offline) resources. They may also input discussion items or online exercises. Except where privacy is an issue, all communication between students and online tutors takes place in the online group discussion forums in Moodle.
Contact Groups
Students are encouraged to form study groups with other students. These can be very useful in reducing isolation and in providing mutual support in relation to course requirements. You can contact other students through the class list available on your student portal, or through the Moodle virtual learning environment.
Student Advisory Service

When students experience problems with their studies, they are encouraged to call on their tutor in the first instance, particularly where there are problems in understanding the course itself. Where other difficulties arise for example through illness, work or domestic circumstances they can contact the Student Advisors at Oscail who offer an advisory service, either by e-mail, telephone, letter, or through personal meetings. Student Advisors can be contacted by telephone (01-7005924) or by e-mail at oscail.student@dcu.ie.
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Library Services
Library membership is conferred automatically on all registered students of Dublin City University, including part-time and distance education students. The library in Dublin City University holds books, newspapers, periodicals, video recordings, audio recordings and computer software packages. For up-to-date opening times and information on the services it provides, please consult the DCU Library web site at: http://www.library.dcu.ie/. Some library services are available online, such as online databases and journals, as described above in the section on Oscail e-services.
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Post Graduate Courses at Oscail, Dublin City University

Oscail has been offering postgraduate level education at a distance, since 1990. Our programmes are targeted at working professionals, who wish to achieve a deeper understanding in a specialist area and to provide a sound basis for their long-term career, without disruption to their career or other commitments. As a graduate from our programmes, you will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to reach senior managerial positions in your chosen specialist area. All modules are taught on line in a virtual classroom, Moodle, where you can interact with your fellow students and tutors through email, chat, skype, at whatever time suits you. Assessment is by continuous assessment only with no terminal examinations. This greatly increases the flexibility of the programme. Our current suite of programmes comprises three Masters of Science programmes: Masters Masters Masters Masters of of of of Science Science Science Science in in in in the Management of Operations Information Systems Strategy Internet Systems Management for Sustainable Development
The four programmes are structured in the same way and share a common first year. In year 2, you study a set of modules in your specialist area, completing your studies with a dissertation at the end of year 2. Normally, you will register for two modules (30 credits) in year 1 and for a further two modules at the start of year 2 (30 credits). You will register for the final stage of the programme (dissertation) in January of year 2.
COMMON MODULES (30 credits)
Year 1 Sep to May
Strategic Management: (15 credits) Business Support Systems (15 credits)
CORE MODULES (15 credits)

Three mandatory modules from chosen pathway
Year 2 Sep to May

Research Methods & Case Study (15 credits)
Research Methods II One Elective Case Study
Year 2 Feb to Aug
Dissertation (30 credits)
Figure 1 Overall Programme Structure
There are three exit points on each programme: at the end of year 1 (Graduate Certificate), on completion of the taught modules (Graduate Diploma) and on completion of the dissertation in addition to the taught modules (Masters of Science). You will graduate with one award only, the highest level at which you elect to terminate your studies.
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Management of Operations (MOPS)

Awards available:
Masters of Science on completion of 90 credits Graduate Diploma on completion of 60 credits Graduate Certificate on completion of 30 credits
Programme Aims:
The aim of this programme is to develop the knowledge and skills to enable you to function as business analysts and managers of operations in dynamic, technologyintensive manufacturing or services environments.
Programme Outcomes:
On completion of the programme, you will have a critical awareness of current problems and new insights associated with Operations Management in dynamic, high technology services or manufacturing environments. You will also have developed new skills in the area of business and be able to select from these, appropriate sets of tools to use in different business situations. It is anticipated that the programme will provide graduates of different disciplines with a unique opportunity to develop the hybrid, interdisciplinary knowledge and skills considered essential for modern business development and management. You will also develop the range of investigative and analytic skills and techniques required to equip you to assume managerial or senior roles within your organisations.
Programme Structure, Content and Duration

Year 1: The building block of each programme is the module. Two modules (OSC1 - 15 credits and OSC2 - 15 credits) are studied in year 1. If you wish to terminate your studies on completion of year 1, you will receive a Postgraduate Certificate in Strategic Systems Management. Year 2: In year 2, the first 15 credit module, OSC10, is essential to the Management of Operations programme. This module should be completed by the end of December of year 2. You will then complete a research proposal on a topic of relevance to the Management of Operations for submission by the end of January of year 2. Once the research proposal is approved, you will be appointed a dissertation supervisor. It is envisaged that you will complete the Research Methods and Case Study module (OSC3) by May of year 2. This module is a combination of common research methods sub module, a Management of Operations specific case study and one elective. It is anticipated that while you can choose any of the electives, it is recommended that you choose the elective that best fits with the Management of Operations. To conclude your studies for the MSc award, you must complete a dissertation of about 20,000 words in a topic compatible with the aims of the Management of Operations programme. The purpose of the dissertation is to enable you to develop your investigative and analytical skills and to plan, organise and carry out independent research under supervision. The dissertation is also an opportunity for you to investigate a problem or issue of importance to your organisation or of professional relevance to yourself. You will be required to demonstrate competence in the critical study of your chosen topic and lucidity in the presentation and communication of the results. You will already have completed two research methods modules as part of your Post Graduate diploma studies, which will provide you with the tools required to undertake this major piece of research. The final dissertation must be submitted for
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examination by the end of August of year 2. However, it is possible to defer submission of the dissertation to year 3 by seeking a deferral and paying the appropriate fee on return to study.
Figure 2 Management of Operations If you decide not to complete the dissertation, and have already completed the taught modules (60 credits), you may elect to graduate with the award of Graduate Diploma. The Postgraduate Certificate award in Strategic Systems Management provides you with a comprehensive foundation in managerial techniques to enable you to develop your professional skills from a business and IT/IS perspective. You will be exposed to a wide range of tools and techniques, including research methods, legal frameworks and informatics. In addition, due to the diverse elements of the programme, course texts, activities, online resources, and personal and group assignments, you will get an opportunity to take significant responsibility for individual and group work and you will be able demonstrate your ability to self educate and for continuous professional development. You will not only build on your own professional work experience, but you will also benefit from the experience of fellow learners, as participants come from a wide range of organisations, including the public, service, manufacturing or non governmental sectors. Remember, you will graduate with one award only, the highest level at which you elect to terminate your studies.
Programme Overview
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An overview of the modules and their credit value is provided in Table 1, while a schedule of assessment for the taught modules is provided in Table 2. All modules are assessed by continuous assessment only. Year 1 (Oct to May) Strategic Management Business Support Systems Year 2 (Oct to May) Management of Operations Research Methods and Case Study Year 2 (Feb to Jul) Project and Dissertation Table 1: Modules and Credits - MOPS Module Code OSC1 Module Title Strategic Management - Strategic Management - Managing Change - Project Management and Risk Assessment Business Support Systems - Legal Frameworks - Business and the Environment - Research Methods I Management of Operations - Management of Operations - Operations Strategy - Service Management Research Methods and Case Study - Research Methods II - Case Study - Elective Dissertation Continuous Assessment Format Average of three assignments, one for each sub module area 30 credits OSC10 OSC3 15 credits 15 credits CODE OSC1 OSC2 CREDITS 15 credits 15 credits
OSC2
Average of three assignments, one for each sub module area Average of three assignments, one for each sub module area Average of three assignments, one for each sub module area
OSC10
OSC3
OSC20
20,000 word dissertation
Table 2: Schedule of Assessment MOPS
Assessment and Awards

In accordance with University Academic Regulations, the programme leads to the award of the MSc in the Management of Operations. Students who do not complete the dissertation may be awarded a Graduate Diploma. Assessment procedures will be in accordance with the Marks and Standards for University Awards. (See http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/standards.shtml)
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Award of MSc in Management of Operations

To be eligible for the award of Master of Science in Management of Operations a student must have completed the Graduate Diploma (60 credits) and have passed the dissertation stage (30 credits). The final mark for the Masters award is a weighted average of the mark for the taught modules and that for the dissertation 70% of the average module mark in the four taught modules (defined above) and 30% of the mark awarded for the dissertation. The grade of classification is the precision mark based on the relevant, approved modules. Where the original precision mark is less than 40%, and the student subsequently successfully completes the requisite credits, the student will be awarded a Pass classification, irrespective of the final marks achieved. The MSc may be awarded with first or second class honours where appropriate. First Class Honours: Second Class Honours: Pass: 70%+ 60% 69% 40% 59%
The external examiner may require a student to attend an oral examination (viva voce).
Award of Graduate Diploma in Management of Operations

The Graduate Diploma is awarded to students who elect to terminate their studies or who have taken more than one years leave of absence without permission from Oscail, having passed the continuous assessment in each of the requisite modules of the programme (60 credits). The taught module contribution is the average module mark of the following four modules:
OSC1 Strategic Management OSC2 - Business Support Systems OSC10 Management of Operations OSC3 Research Methods and Case Study
The mark to be used to determine the grade of classification is the precision mark based on the relevant, approved modules. Where the original precision mark is less than 40%, and the student subsequently successfully completes the requisite credits, the student will be awarded a Pass classification, irrespective of the final marks achieved. The award may be made with credit where the final result is in the range 60% to 69%. The award may be made with distinction where the final result is in the range 70%+.
Re-entry to MSc Programme

If a student has graduated with a Graduate Diploma they may re-enter the programme to complete the Masters at a later stage. However, the student would then be required to surrender their Graduate Diploma parchment to the University prior to being awarded with a Masters award. They may also be required to submit an additional assignment to ensure currency of the qualification.
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Master of Science in Information Systems Strategy (MISS)

The MSc in Information Systems Strategy (MISS) programme developed from the Graduate Diploma/MSc in Management and Applications of IT in Accounting (MAIT) and from the MSc in the Management of Information Systems for Managers (MISM). The name changes reflect the way the programme has evolved from when it was originally designed in partnership with the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Ireland as a professional development opportunity for accountants and other financial professionals to one which is focused on information systems strategy and business solutions. The MISS title applies to those who are registering on the programme for the first time from 2008 onwards. It does not affect those who were already registered on the Management and Applications of IT in Accounting prior to 2005 or on the Management of Information Systems for Managers prior to 2008.
Awards available:
Programme Aims
Managers and business professionals to an increasing degree, require a range of competencies in Information Systems and Technologies (IS/IT). The aim of this programme is to provide you with these competencies, which include the knowledge and skills to enable you to manage more confidently in an environment where information systems both drive and serve business, to align Information Strategy with the overall business strategy and to contribute meaningfully to ongoing Information Strategy development.
Programme Outcomes
You will gain an understanding of the role of IS/IT in the processes of innovation, management and administration associated with modern organisations. You will also gain a critical awareness of current problems and new insights associated with the management of Information Systems in dynamic, high technology manufacturing or services environments. Finally, you will develop the range of investigative and analytic skills and techniques required to equip you to assume managerial or senior roles within your organisations.

Year 1 The building block of each programme is the module. Two modules (OSC1 - 15 credits and OSC2 - 15 credits) are studied in year 1. If you wish to terminate your studies on completion of year 1, you will receive a Postgraduate Certificate in Strategic Systems Management. Year 2 In year 2, the first 15 credit module, OSC11, is essential to the Management of Information Systems Strategy programme. This module should be completed by the end of December of year 2. You will then complete a research proposal on a topic of relevance to the Management of Information Systems Strategy for submission by the end of January of year 2. Once the research proposal is approved, a dissertation supervisor will be appointed to you. It is envisaged that you will complete the Research Methods and Case Study module by May of year 2. This module is a combination of common research methods sub module, a Management of Information
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Systems Strategy specific case study and an elective. It is anticipated that while you can choose any of the electives, it is recommended that you choose the elective that best fits with the Management of Information Systems Strategy. To conclude your studies for the MSc award, you must complete a dissertation of about 20,000 words in a topic compatible with the aims of the Management of Information Systems Strategy programme. The purpose of the dissertation is to enable you to develop your investigative and analytical skills and to plan, organise and carry out independent research under supervision. The dissertation is also an opportunity for you to investigate a problem or issue of importance to your organisation or of professional relevance to yourself. You will be required to demonstrate competence in the critical study of your chosen topic and lucidity in the presentation and communication of the results. You will already have completed two research methods modules as part of your Post Graduate diploma studies, which will provide you with the tools required to undertake this major piece of research. The final dissertation must be submitted for examination by the end of July of year 2. However, it is possible to defer submission of the dissertation to year 3 by seeking a deferral and paying the appropriate fee on return to study. If you decide not to complete the dissertation, and have already completed the taught modules (60 credits), you may elect to graduate with the award of Graduate Diploma.
Strategic Management: (15 credits) Strategic Management Managing Change Project Management & Risk Assessment Business Support Systems (15 credits) Legal Frameworks Business and the Environment Research methods I
MISS (15 credits) Decision Systems Strategy Strategic Technology Mgmt Systems Solutions
Research Methods and Case Study (15 credits) Research Methods II Core specific case study AND Choose 1 elective from the following Business Analysis and Informatics Soc context of info and internet systems Value Chain Management Enterprise systems
DISSERTATION (30 Credits)

Figure 3: Management of Information Systems Strategy The Postgraduate Certificate award in Strategic Systems Management provides you with a comprehensive foundation in managerial techniques to enable you to develop your professional skills from a business and IT/IS perspective. You will be exposed to a wide range of tools and techniques, including research methods, legal frameworks and informatics. In addition, due to the diverse elements of the programme, course texts, activities, online resources, and personal and group assignments, you will get an opportunity to take significant responsibility for individual and group work and you will be able demonstrate your ability to self educate and for continuous professional development. You will not only build on your own professional
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work experience, but you will also benefit from the experience of fellow learners, as participants come from a wide range of organisations. Remember, you will graduate with one award only, the highest level at which you elect to terminate your studies.
Programme Overview
An overview of the modules and their credit value is provided in Table 3, while a schedule of assessment for the taught modules is provided in Table 4. All modules are assessed by continuous assessment only. Year 1 (Oct to May) Strategic Management Business Support Systems Year 2 (Oct to May) Information Systems Strategy Research Methods and Case Study Year 2 (Feb to Jul) or Year 3 (Sep to May) Project and Dissertation Table 3: Modules and Credits - MISS Module Code OSC1 Module Title Strategic Management - Strategic Management - Managing Change - Project Management and Risk Assessment Business Support Systems - Legal Frameworks - Business and the Environment - Research Methods I Information Systems Strategy - Decision Systems Strategy - Strategic Technology Management - Systems Solutions Research Methods and Case Study - Research Methods II - Case Study - Elective Dissertation Continuous Assessment Format Average of three assignments, one for each sub module area 30 credits OSC11 OSC3 15 credits 15 credits CODE OSC1 OSC2 CREDITS 15 credits 15 credits
OSC2
Average of three assignments, one for each sub module area Average of three assignments, one for each sub module area
OSC11
OSC3
Average of three assignments, one for each sub module area
OSC20
Table 4: Schedule of Assessment MISS
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In accordance with University Academic Regulations, the programme leads to the award of the MSc in the Management of Information Systems Strategy. Students who do not complete the dissertation may be awarded a Graduate Diploma.
Award of MSc in Management of Information Systems Strategy

To be eligible for the award of Master of Science in Management of Information Systems Strategy, a student must have completed the Graduate Diploma (60 credits) and have passed the dissertation stage (30 credits). The external examiner may require a student to attend an oral examination (viva voce). The final mark for the Masters award is a weighted average of the mark for the taught modules and that for the dissertation 70% of the average module mark in the four taught modules (defined above) and 30% of the mark awarded for the dissertation. The grade of classification is the precision mark based on the relevant, approved modules. Where the original precision mark is less than 40%, and the student subsequently successfully completes the requisite credits, the student will be awarded a Pass classification, irrespective of the final marks achieved. The MSc may be awarded with first or second class honours where appropriate. First Class Honours: Second Class Honours: Pass: 70%+ 60% 69% 40% 59%
Award of Graduate Diploma in Management of Information Systems Strategy

OSC1 Strategic Management OSC2 - Business Support Systems OSC11 Information Systems Strategy OSC3 Research Methods and Case Study

If a student has graduated with a Graduate Diploma they may re-enter the programme to complete the Masters at a later stage. However, the student would then be required to surrender their Graduate Diploma parchment to the University prior to being awarded with a Masters award. They may also be required to submit an additional assignment to ensure currency of the qualification.
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Master of Science in Internet Systems (MSIS)

The Internet, and information systems built on it, present many new challenges to managers, IS researchers and IS educators. These challenges arise in the technical, legal, commercial, organisational and the broader societal domains. The Internet is literally transforming the way organisations structure themselves and do their business. The MSc in Internet Systems provides a timely, innovative, and unique response to the needs of Information Technology users and managers in contemporary Irish organisations. Our economic growth and competitiveness as a nation demands a welleducated and multi-skilled workforce; in particular, it demands a workforce capable of exploiting Internet Systems to give their organisations competitive advantage. For the experienced graduate, an inter-disciplinary programme of this kind is likely to be highly relevant and beneficial. The hybrid expertise and knowledge result from study and integration of such modules, embracing all these aspects of Internet Systems, are particularly relevant in the context of the future of Irish business.
Awards available:
Programme Aims
The overall aim of the programme is to develop your knowledge and skills so that you can manage and apply key Internet Systems strategies to your organisation. Specifically the programme will combine a comprehensive overview of the strategic applications and management of Internet Systems with an investigation of the underpinning technological principles, and how selected societal and commercial issues relate to the use of Internet Systems.
Programme Outcomes
On completion of the programme, you will also be able to understand, develop and manage emerging technologies in the networked society and have a critical awareness of current problems and new insights associated with Internet Systems in emerging technologies and in the networked society. You will also develop the range of investigative and analytic skills and techniques required to equip you to assume managerial or senior roles within your organisations.

Year 1 The building block of each programme is the module. Two modules (OSC1 - 15 credits and OSC2 - 15 credits) are studied in year 1. If you wish to terminate your studies on completion of year 1, you will receive a Postgraduate Certificate in Strategic Systems Management. Year 2 In year 2, the first 15 credit module, OSC12, is essential to the Management of Internet Systems programme. This module should be completed by the end of December of year 2. You will then complete a research proposal on a topic of relevance to the Management of Internet Systems for submission by the end of January of year 2. Once the research proposal is approved, a dissertation supervisor will be appointed to you. It is envisaged that you will complete the Research Methods and Case Study module by May of year 2. This module is a combination of common research methods sub module, a Management of Internet Systems specific case study
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and one elective from a range of modules currently on offer within the specific programmes. It is anticipated that while you can choose any of the electives, it is recommended that you choose the elective that best fits with the Management of Internet Systems. To conclude your studies for the MSc award, you must complete a dissertation of about 20,000 words in a topic compatible with the aims of the Management of Internet Systems programme. The purpose of the dissertation is to enable you to develop your investigative and analytical skills and to plan, organise and carry out independent research under supervision. The dissertation is also an opportunity for you to investigate a problem or issue of importance to your organisation or of professional relevance to yourself. You will be required to demonstrate competence in the critical study of your chosen topic and lucidity in the presentation and communication of the results. You will already have completed two research methods modules as part of your Post Graduate diploma studies, which will provide you with the tools required to undertake this major piece of research. The final dissertation must be submitted for examination by the end of August of year 2. In exceptional circumstances, however, you may register for a third year and pay the appropriate fee to complete the dissertation. If you decide not to complete the dissertation, and have already completed the taught modules (60 credits), you may elect to graduate with the award of Graduate Diploma.
Strategic Management: (15 credits) Strategic Management Managing Change Project Management & Risk Assessment Business Support Systems (15 credits) Legal Frameworks Business and the Environment Research methods I
MSIS (15 credits) Internet Technologies Internet systems infrastructure Internet applications portfolio
Research Methods and Case Study (15 credits) Research Methods II Core specific case study AND Choose 1 elective from the following Soc context of info and internet systems Value Chain Management Business Analysis and Informatics Enterprise systems
DISSERTATION (30 Credits)

Figure 4: Management of Internet Systems The Postgraduate Certificate award in Strategic Systems Management provides you with a comprehensive foundation in managerial techniques to enable you to develop your professional skills from a business and IT/IS perspective. You will be exposed to a wide range of tools and techniques, including research methods, legal frameworks and informatics. In addition, due to the diverse elements of the programme, course texts, activities, online resources, and personal and group
28
assignments, you will get an opportunity to take significant responsibility for individual and group work and you will be able demonstrate your ability to self educate and for continuous professional development. You will not only build on your own professional work experience, but you will also benefit from the experience of fellow learners, as participants come from a wide range of organisations, including the public, service, manufacturing or non governmental sectors. Remember, you will graduate with one award only, the highest level at which you elect to terminate your studies.
Programme Overview
An overview of the modules and their credit value is provided in Table 5, while a schedule of assessment for the taught modules is provided in Table 6. All modules are assessed by continuous assessment only. Year 1 (Oct to May) Strategic Management Business Support Systems Year 2 (Oct to May) Internet Systems Research Methods and Case Study Year 2 (Feb to Aug) Project and Dissertation Table 5: Modules and Credits - MSIS Module Code OSC1 Module Title Strategic Management - Strategic Management - Managing Change - Project Management and Risk Assessment Business Support Systems - Business and the Environment - Research Methods I - Legal Frameworks Internet Systems - Internet Technologies - Internet Systems Infrastructure - Internet Applications Portfolio Research Methods and Case Study - Research Methods II - Case Study - Elective Dissertation Continuous Assessment Format Average of three assignments, one for each sub module area 30 credits OSC12 OSC3 15 credits 15 credits CODE OSC1 OSC2 CREDITS 15 credits 15 credits
OSC2
Average of three assignments, one for each sub module area Average of three assignments, one for each sub module area
OSC12
OSC3
Average of three assignments, one for each sub module area
OSC20
Table 6: Schedule of Assessment MSIS
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In accordance with University Academic Regulations, the programme leads to the award of the MSc in the Management of Internet Systems. Students who do not complete the dissertation may be awarded a Graduate Diploma.
Award of MSc in Management of Internet Systems

To be eligible for the award of Master of Science in Management of Internet Systems, a student must have completed the Graduate Diploma (60 credits) and have passed the dissertation stage (30 credits). The external examiner may require a student to attend an oral examination (viva voce). The final mark for the Masters award is a weighted average of the mark for the taught modules and that for the dissertation 70% of the average module mark in the four taught modules (defined above) and 30% of the mark awarded for the dissertation. The grade of classification is the precision mark based on the relevant, approved modules. Where the original precision mark is less than 40%, and the student subsequently successfully completes the requisite credits, the student will be awarded a Pass classification, irrespective of the final marks achieved. The MSc may be awarded with first or second class honours where appropriate. First Class Honours: Second Class Honours: Pass: 70%+ 60% 69% 40% 59%
Award of Graduate Diploma in Management of Internet Systems

OSC1 Strategic Management OSC2 - Business Support Systems OSC12 Internet Systems OSC3 Research Methods and Case Study

If a student has graduated with a Graduate Diploma they may re-enter the programme to complete the Masters at a later stage. However, the student would then be required
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to surrender their Graduate Diploma parchment to the University prior to being awarded with a Masters award. They may also be required to submit an additional assignment to ensure currency of the qualification.
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Appendices
Appendix 1 Module Syllabi Year 1 modules
Strategic Management Module OSC1 (15 credits)
Strategic Management sub module Strategy Context and Development Overview Strategy Making Process Levels of Strategy Industry and Competitive Analysis Company Situation Analysis Strategy and Structure in diversified companies Managing Change sub module Understanding and Defining Change Models of Change Leading Change Organisational Culture and Change Managing Resistance and building readiness for change Consolidating and sustaining change Project Management and Risk Assessment sub module Project Management and Risk Management Project Generation Project Feasibility Selection and Initiation Project Planning Project Scheduling Techniques Project Scheduling Pert Charts Project Leadership, Motivation and Negotiation Managing Project Teams Project Financing and Budgets Project Procurement strategies
Business Support Systems Module OSC2 (15 credits)

Legal Frameworks This sub module consists of some core elements and some specific elements depending on the course of study being taken. Core elements Introduction to Irish Law Court Procedure and Litigation Remedies and Enforcement Specific content for MSc in Management for Sustainable Development European Environmental Legislation Environmental Legislation in Ireland Water Protection and Management Waste Management Legislation on chemical products Noise regulations Air emissions regulations OR
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Specific content for other programmes Commercial Dispute Resolution Contract Law Tort Law Intellectual Property Data Protection and Freedom of Information Employment Law I Employment Law II Health and Safety in the Workplace Business and the Environment Corporate Social Responsibility Sustainable Development Sustainable Development & the Firm Theories and Approaches to examining sustainable development & the firm including Systems Thinking Environmental Management in organisations Regulations Best Available Techniques Know your Business Strategic Environmental Management Environmental Management Systems ISO 14001 (Systimax Case), EMAS, Eco-label, The Natural Step Developing an EMS Research methods I sub module Introduction to Qualitative Inquiry and Traditions of Qualitative Inquiry Introduction to Quantitative Research Methods Designing a Qualitative Study Designing a Quantitative Study Collecting Qualitative Data Observing; Interviewing; Documents, Archives and Artefacts Collecting Quantitative Data: Experiments; Surveys and Questionnaires The Basics of Managing Qualitative and Quantitative Data Basic Data Analysis and Reporting
Year 2 Modules
Management of Operations Module OSC10 (15 credits)
Management of Operations sub module sub module Product and Process Design New Product Development Process, Layout and Flow Job Design Planning, Control and Scheduling Capacity Management Inventory Management Just In Time Quality Management Total Quality Management Operations Strategy sub module The two perspectives Content and process Time, trade-offs and targeting Capacity, Configuration and dynamics Supply relationships and behaviour Choice and implementation
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Organisation and role Development and improvement Product and service development Fit, sustainability and risk
Service Management sub module sub module Introduction to Service Operations Management The service concept Customer and Supplier relationships Customer Expectations and Satisfaction Managing Supply Relationships Service Processes Resource Utilisation Performance Measurement and Management Service Strategy and Culture
Information Systems Strategy Module OSC11 (15 Credits)

Decision systems strategy sub module Digital Economy The Long Tail Technology and Hardware Organisation and Management in the Digital Economy Evolving role of Information Technology and Decision Systems Structural changes in business Strategic Technology Management sub module Technology Revolutions Role of Technology in Organisations Information Systems and Competitive advantage Tools for analysing information systems in organisations Impact of Information Technology on Business Implementing and Managing Information Systems sub module Getting value from Information Systems Evaluating IT Investments IT/IS acquisition, development and Implementation Managing Information Systems Data/Information Management IT/IS/IM service management IT/IS risk management and security IT/IS and Ethics Emerging issues and technologies
Internet Systems Module OSC12 (15 credits)

Internet Technologies sub module History and Evolution of the Internet Technologies, Facilities, Protocols and Standards. Internet, Intranet and Extranet Concepts Data Communication Principles. Transmission Concepts. The OSI reference model. The Physical, Link and Network layers. Networks LANs and WANs Backbone Networks and LAN integration. The Transport Layer. Internet Access. Internet Media and Content. Hypertext.
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Forms, Links, Image Maps, Tables, Lists and Frames.
Internet Systems Infrastructure sub module Network Design, Implementation, Network Management Network Security Network Operating Systems. Establishing WEB Servers. Implementing WEB Sites. Webserver Administration The Internet Applications Portfolio sub module Overview of Internet Applications ECommerce Terminology and Concepts Benefits and Limitations of eCommerce Impacts on Business Processes and Organisations The Digital Economy EC Models: Business to Consumer EC Models: Business to Business EC Models: Consumer to Consumer Intranet Models for Business Legacy Applications and the Internet Other Business Models for EC Sourcing & Implementing eCommerce Solutions Regulatory Infrastructure Management Issues for EC
Management for Sustainable Development OSC14 (15 credits)

Sustainable Environmental Management Life Cycle Assessment overview Carbon Footprint ISO14040, PAS2050, PAS2060 LCA tools for waste management LCA tools for product comparisons ISO14000 EMAS Integrated Environmental Management Resource and Waste Management Waste audits Benchmarking against best practice Sustainable Energy and Water management Sources of energy Renewable energy Energy conservation Grey Water Water reduction and recycling Wastewater treatment Benchmarking against best practice Sustainable Procurement Introduction to sustainable procurement Reducing risk in the supply chain: Economic Environmental
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Social Environmental Analysis by commodity Social Issues in Procurement Life Cycle Costing Public vs. Private sustainable procurement Resources
Research Methods II and Case Study Module OSC3 (15 credits)

Research Methods II (sub module) Advanced Qualitative Data Analysis: Coding and Classifying; Interpreting and Representing Reporting and Evaluating Qualitative Research Advanced Quantitative Data Analysis: Descriptive Statistics; Comparing Means; Measures of Associations; Regression Analysis and Nonparametric Statistics Reporting and Evaluating Quantitative Research Preparing a Research Proposal Case Study (sub module) A new scenario case study is devised each year, presenting participants with tasks, which require assessment of all aspects of a particular situation relevant to the core programme. Preparation of the report requires participants to review course modules and to identify additional relevant sources/documentation to support the recommendations being advanced. To complement their written report, learners are also asked to prepare slides and supporting notes to be used in making a presentation of the report content and recommendations.
Electives sub module (Choose one of the following)

Value Chain Management Strategy and strategic procurement Strategic Procurement management strategic analysis Strategic Procurement management strategic choice Strategic Procurement management strategy implementation Strategic supply chain management Recruitment and selection of staff The leadership and management of teams Supply chain policy issues
Enterprise Systems Activity Based Costing / Activity Based Management Computer Integrated Manufacturing IS to support Logistics and Supply Chain Management Balanced scorecards and non financial performance measurement Enterprise Resource Planning systems Strategic performance Measurement systems Business Analysis and Informatics sub module Management Accounting, Manufacturing and the Business Environment in the 2000s The Value Chain from Product Ideas to Product Delivery Management Accounting for Product Design and Planning Activity Based Costing Systems in Manufacturing and Production Introduction to Business Systems Engineering, Modelling and Analysis Managing Innovation Benchmarking Total quality management / continuous improvement Organisations and Information Requirements
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Information systems and the determination of requirements Logical, Physical and OO Design techniques Human Computer interaction Alternative methodologies for developing information systems
Social context of information and internet systems The Internet: Between Experience and Practice The Social Life of Information on the Internet Conceptualising the Internet as a Medium Groups on the Internet Communities of Practice on and Around the Internet - Learning Internet, Self, and Experience in Everyday Life Researching and Evaluating Experiences on the Internet Business and the Environment (Only available as an elective to students who completed OSC2 in 2009-2010 academic year) Corporate Social Responsibility Sustainable Development Sustainable Development & the Firm Theories and Approaches to examining sustainable development & the firm including Systems Thinking Environmental Management in organisations Regulations Best Available Techniques Know your Business Strategic Environmental Management Environmental Management Systems ISO 14001 (Systimax Case), EMAS, Eco-label, The Natural Step Developing an EMS
Dissertation OSC20 (30 credits)

The Dissertation is a stimulating and challenging part of the MSc programme. It is a major piece of independent work of 20,000 words in length. The objective of the dissertation is to give you the opportunity to bring to bear the techniques and perspectives covered in the taught modules upon a specific issue of interest. The dissertation should provide an independent and critical appraisal of an issue, normally involving an empirical analysis of the topic being investigated. In particular, you are expected to: show knowledge of the topic investigated, including current research; exercise critical judgement in a competent and scholarly manner; display critical discrimination and a sense of proportion in evaluating evidence and the opinion of others; and illustrate how your analysis has relevance to decision making. The deliverable of the Research Methods II module is a research proposal, which feeds directly into the dissertation. The learners select their own topic in consultation with the tutor for the research methods II module and the Programme Coordinator. In broad terms, a dissertation proposal, which follows one of the following models, is acceptable. Model 1: Theory/Practice The theoretical framework of a subject area is developed by review of the literature and the empirical evidence is collected to answer a specific question or develop a specific point within the chosen subject area.
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Model 2 Company-based Project The dissertation consists of an analysis of, and solution, to a significant practical problem or situation in the area of business management in an actual business situation. Although the dissertation is essentially practical in orientation, the learner would be expected to demonstrate his/her knowledge of the conceptual framework of the problem in a variety of ways such as his/her approach to the analysis of the problem and the nature of the solutions brought forward.
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Appendix 2 Election of Student to Programme Board

Each programme is managed and directed on behalf of Academic Council by a Programme Board (Programme Team) appointed by Academic Council. One member of the Programme Board will be elected from the registered student body for each programme every two years. The elected member will serve for a period of two academic years, but will not be precluded from re-election in a subsequent period. The elected member will attend all Programme Board meetings in the normal way, but may be asked to withdraw if matters of sensitivity, such as matters pertaining to an individual student, are under discussion.
Mechanism for Electing a Registered Student

On completion of Registration, all participants will be advised that a vacancy will be filled on the Programme Board and will be invited to allow their names to go forward for consideration by the student body (registered students at Graduate Diploma and M.Sc. levels). A calendar, indicating dates for receipt of nominations and for completion of a postal ballot, will be provided. Candidates must be nominated by three other participants, provided they have confirmed their willingness to stand for election. Intending candidates may submit a brief resume maximum 2xA4 pages, providing details, including their address, telephone, fax and email as well as details of suitable times at which they may be contacted by other students. The resume may also contain supporting information, such as detailing their reasons for seeking election. Following the closing date for nominations, Oscail will circulate copies of candidates resumes and a voting paper to all registered students of the programme, together with a reply-paid envelope. A closing date for receipt of completed ballot papers will be indicated. Votes will be opened and counted by an agreed sub-group of the Programme Board and the results notified to the electorate as soon as possible after the closing date. In the event of a tied result, the names of the tied candidates will be put in a hat and one name will be drawn. Ballot papers will be filed securely for a minimum period of 12 months and will be available for inspection by members of the Programme Board.
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Appendix 3 Harvard Referencing System

Introduction In writing assignments you will draw on a range of sources course units, textbooks, the Internet, journal articles, newspapers, databases to develop and inform your ideas. It is essential that you provide references to the ideas, facts, quotations or any other material you have used in writing your assignment. There are a number of reasons for this: To assist your reader/ tutor in assessing the quality of the work you have put into the assignment. Much academic work is based on evidence-based arguments. Correct referencing allows your reader/assignment tutor to assess the quality of the evidence you have used. To assist your reader/ tutor in assessing the reliability of the information you are using. For example, if you base your assignment on information gleaned only from tabloid newspapers, magazines, school textbooks, or outdated sources, you are less likely to produce good academic work, than if you use books and articles written by recognised academic experts. To avoid plagiarism: It is a serious academic offence to present the work of others as your own. Any fact, idea, or quotation taken from another source must be acknowledged by giving a reference to the source, which can be independently checked by the reader. Where you quote the direct words from a source, it is not enough to provide the reference to the source; you must also enclose all quoted sentences or paragraphs in quotation marks to acknowledge that these are not your own original words. To assist your reader/tutor in locating the material you have consulted. Correct referencing is an important part of any academic work. Marks will be deducted from your assignments for incorrect referencing. These guidelines aim to help you reference the source of any facts, ideas, opinions, viewpoints and quotations that you use in your assignments. While there are many referencing systems, which have been developed by journals and professional societies, it is strongly recommended that you use the Harvard Referencing system, described in these guidelines. Correct referencing, while important in all modules, is particularly important in your dissertation. Reference List and Bibliography In your assignments you may be asked to produce both a Reference List and a Bibliography: The Reference list is a list of all works referred to in the assignment The Bibliography lists any additional sources consulted but not specifically referred to in the assignment. The Harvard Referencing System The Harvard System is a system in which names and dates are given in the body of the text and the references are listed alphabetically at the end of the paper. You will find a number of references to the Harvard System itself on the Internet and on the Library web pages. This note is intended to summarise the main points. There are different ways to reference, depending on the source of the reference, the number of authors and whether the author(s) being cited are the subject or object in the body of the paper. Referring to, or summarising from a book
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When you are referring to, or summarising the viewpoints of an author, but not quoting the exact words, you give the source either in the body or the end of the sentence using the following format: (Surname, Year of Publication: page in which the specific information is located if relevant) Example: The pivotal event that shaped the world into the form we now see around us was the British Industrial Revolution, which began in the late eighteenth century (Burnes, 2000). Or According to Burnes (2000) the pivotal event that shaped the world into the form we now see around us was the British Industrial Revolution, which began in the late eighteenth century. The reference at the end of the assignment will appear in the following format: Authors SURNAME, INITIALS., Year of publication. Title. Edition (if not the first). Place of publication: Publisher. Example: BURNES, B., (2000) Managing Change, 3rd Edition, England: Pearson Education Limited Referring to, or summarising from a journal article When you are referring to, or summarising the viewpoints of an author in a journal article, but not quoting the exact words, you give the source at the end of the sentence using the following format (using the same format as that for books): Examples: The development of any field is an accumulation of knowledge and learning passed on by many means including word of mouth, craft and skill training, and internal documentation (Voss, 2007). Or Voss (2007) points out the development of any field is an accumulation of knowledge and learning passed on by many means including word of mouth, craft and skill training, and internal documentation The reference at the end of the assignment will appear in the following format: Authors SURNAME, INITIALS., (Year of publication) Title of article. Title of journal, Volume number and (part number), Page numbers of contribution. Example: VOSS, C.A. (2007) Learning from the first Operations Management textbook, Journal of Operations Management 29 (2), 239-247. Using quotations If you use more that a couple of words from a text, you must put these in quotation marks to show your reader that these are not your words. It is not enough just to put the reference at the end of the sentence or paragraph; using quotations in this way could constitute plagiarism. Generally it is best not to use lengthy quotations; rather you should try to paraphrase or summarise the ideas in your own words, giving the source at the end of the sentence or paragraph. For example, you might read the following paragraph when researching an essay on crime:
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Preventing crime, and reducing fear of crime, are both closely related to rebuilding strong communities. As we saw in our earlier discussions of the broken windows theory, one of the most significant innovations in criminology in recent years has been the discovery that the decay of day-to-day civility relates directly to criminality. For a long time attention was focused almost exclusively on serious crime robbery, assault or violence. More minor crimes and forms of public disorder, however, tend to have a cumulative effect. (Giddens, 2001: 223) However, rather than using the full quotation, it would be preferable to paraphrase and summarise the content using your own words, as this will demonstrate your understanding of the content. You could write for example: Giddens points out that it is important to pay attention to the cumulative effect of minor crimes and the loss of civility in leading to more serious crimes of robbery, violence or assault (Giddens, 2001: 223). Referencing from electronic sources You will increasingly find information on the Internet from a range of sources: Electronic journals If the source is from a print journal which is available in full text format from the library database, you can use the normal conventions for referencing journals. If the journal is only available in electronic format use: Surname, Firstname (Year of publication) Title of article Title of Journal Volume Number, Issue Number, Page Numbers, URL, Date you accessed the article (always provide this date since sometimes links are removed or disappear) Example: Burniske, R.W. (2002) Pedagogy of the impressed: introducing teachers in developing countries to educational technology Techknowlogia Vol 4, (4) http://www.techknowlogica.org accessed 6 February 2008. Documents from the Internet You will find a wide range of documents on the Internet. The details you need to provide are: Surname (this could be a company, organisation, individual or group of individuals), Firstname (Year of publication) Title of document Place of publication if included Publisher if included URL Date you accessed the document. Example: Hayden, John (2001) Opening remarks by John L. Hayden, Secretary/Chief Executive, HEA at the HEEU Seminar on Research into Mature Students in Higher Education at University of Limerick on 29 June 2001, Dublin: Higher Education Authority http://www.hea.ie/pub_rep/index.htm accessed 6 February 2008 Other Issues: More than one author In the text up to two authors may be cited as Brown and Smith, 1999. If there are more than two authors use the first named author only, followed by et al. For example, if the authors are Breen, Duff, Given, Keane, Quinn and Staunton use the form (Breen et al, 2008) in the text. All authors including their initials should be listed in the bibliography. Citing more than one work from the same author(s) published in the same year These works can be distinguished by putting letters after the date.
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Example, Murphy (1998a) stated that black can sometimes seem not-black. Murphy (1998b) continuing his analysis of colour found that white can also sometimes seem not-white. Make sure that the same letters are used to distinguish the works in the reference/bibliography. Citing an edited collection Works consisting of articles written by different authors are referenced under the editor(s) name. Example: Clancy, Patrick et al (Eds) (2008) Ireland and Poland: Comparative Perspectives Dublin: University College Dublin. Citing an article from an edited collection An article or chapter from an edited collection should be cited under the author(s) name. The number of the first and last page of the article should be included. Example: Peillon, Michael (1992) State and society in the republic of Ireland in Clancy, Patrick et al (Eds) 1992 Ireland and Poland: Comparative Perspectives Dublin: University College Dublin. pp 14-23. Citing a work published by an organisation or corporation Reports which are not the responsibility of individuals should be listed under the name of the body responsible for publication. Example: EPA 2008 National Waste Report 2006: The Environmental Protection Agency, Ireland. Citing a second hand source Sometimes you will read a reference in a book or article to the work of another author. Whenever possible, if you wish to cite this second hand source you should try to check the original source, since it is possible that the second author has misrepresented the original. If its not possible to check the original, you should use the term cited by followed by the reference for the work in which it is quoted. Example: Surveys show that students can learn many things (Hughes, cited in Goodlad, 2000: 17). In the reference list you give the reference to the Goodlad article as follows: Goodlad, Sinclair (2000) The search for synthesis: constraints on the development of the humanities in liberal science-based education in Studies in Higher Education Vol 25, No 1, pp 7-23. The final reference list and bibliography At the end of the assignment, all references are listed alphabetically under the author(s) surname giving full bibliographical details for each item. Ensure that the letters used to distinguish works by the same author with the same publication year are also included. Works by the same author should be arranged chronologically in order of date of publication. If you are referencing the same first author who, along with single author publications, also has publications with a number of authors, then the single author papers are listed first (in alphabetical order) followed by the multiple author papers (also in alphabetical order).
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2010-2011 Postgraduate Programmes Handbook

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Oscail

Online Postgraduate Programmes Handbook 2010/2011

o Master of Science in Internet Systems o Master of Science in Management for Sustainable

Online Postgraduate Programmes

Online Distance Education

Personal Computing Requirements

Online Tutorial Support

Completion of Assignment Cover Sheet

Reviewing Assignment Marks

Absence and Deferral

Nature of the Dissertation

The Presentation of the Dissertation

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Form in which the Dissertation is to be submitted

Postgraduate Programme Support (Dissertation), Oscail, DCU, Dublin 9

In addition, the following information is available through Moodle.

Programme Handbooks Current assignments Programme timetables Assignment Regulations

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Student Support Services

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Online Tutorial Support

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Post Graduate Courses at Oscail, Dublin City University

Year 1 Sep to May

Strategic Management: (15 credits) Business Support Systems (15 credits)

CORE MODULES (15 credits)

Year 2 Sep to May

Year 2 Feb to Aug

Dissertation (30 credits)

Figure 1 Overall Programme Structure

Management of Operations (MOPS)

Programme Structure, Content and Duration

20,000 word dissertation

Table 2: Schedule of Assessment MOPS

Assessment and Awards

Award of MSc in Management of Operations

Award of Graduate Diploma in Management of Operations

Re-entry to MSc Programme

Master of Science in Information Systems Strategy (MISS)

Programme Structure, Content and Duration

DISSERTATION (30 Credits)

Average of three assignments, one for each sub module area

20,000 word dissertation

Table 4: Schedule of Assessment MISS

Assessment and Awards

Award of MSc in Management of Information Systems Strategy

Award of Graduate Diploma in Management of Information Systems Strategy

Re-entry to MSc Programme

Master of Science in Internet Systems (MSIS)

Programme Structure, Content and Duration

DISSERTATION (30 Credits)

Average of three assignments, one for each sub module area

20,000 word dissertation

Table 6: Schedule of Assessment MSIS

Assessment and Awards

Award of MSc in Management of Internet Systems

Award of Graduate Diploma in Management of Internet Systems

Re-entry to MSc Programme

Business Support Systems Module OSC2 (15 credits)

Information Systems Strategy Module OSC11 (15 Credits)

Internet Systems Module OSC12 (15 credits)

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