Services Marketing Distance Learning Degree Bournemouth University

Learning and Teaching

The course is delivered by distance learning methods with short residential periods at Bournemouth University.

Units will incorporate Continuing Professional Development options accredited by the Chartered Institute of Marketing. Induction will normally be through the first residential workshop mentioned below, although an induction pack is available for students unable to attend the workshop.

Course Structure

The course comprises a taught element of five units and a research element in the form of a dissertation. It is anticipated that the majority of students will require a year to complete the four taught units covering the analysis of the services marketing environment and marketing communications, strategy and planning subjects and a further year to complete the research methods unit of the taught element and the research dissertation.

On successful completion of all five units of the taught element, students may finish their studies and be awarded a Postgraduate Diploma or may continue with the dissertation for the masters award. There are a number of student learning hours allocated to workshops, two or three days in length, which will normally be held at Bournemouth University - one near the commencement of the course and one during the research methods taught unit.

Alternative arrangements may be made for overseas students in their own country where the School of Services Management has academic partners. The School has considerable experience of managing postgraduate courses for international students and this course will be offered to overseas applicants with appropriate qualifications.

Chartered Institute of Marketing (CRM)

Bournemouth University is an accredited centre for the Chartered Institute of Marketing Continuing Professional Development course and individual components can be offered as short course courses to industry or graduates requiring further understanding of key strategic marketing functions within the context of the service sector.

Teaching Methodology

The method of teaching using distance learning and workshops is compatible with the aims of the CPD course. Workload and time allocation Students embarking on this distance learning course will need to evaluate their own capabilities in terms of organising masters level work, time management, gathering data, data analysis and task completion. The first workshop held at the university will provide students with a means of self assessment.

Students will be required to draw upon their own experience and provide examples of best practice in respect of these personal skills. Recognition by participants of the constraints on their time and means by which they achieve academic objectives within these constraints is an essential part of the learning process. Shared experience, case studies and exercises can provide assistance in this.

IT Requirements

IT and other Access Requirements The distance learning approach to this course combines traditional written materials with computer accessed resources. While it is expected that students will have differing levels of computer access, minimum requirements are e-mail and web browser capability, word processing and spreadsheets (MS Word and Excel or compatible).

Library Facilities

Students will also need access to university-level library facilities. In the UK this can be facilitated by UK Libraries Plus arrangements. Overseas students will be expected to make similar arrangements locally - our own subject librarian will be able to provide letters of introduction.

Support from the Students' Union at Bournemouth University (SUBU)

All Bournemouth University students are members of the Students' Union. The Union is run by elected representatives from diverse areas including a Mature Students Officer.
Additionally, the Student Advice Centre offers confidential help and information for students balancing life and study.
For more information about the SUBU and its associated organisations: www.subu.org.uk
 

Preparing you for study
 

We understand that you may have been away from education for some time and might be looking for support readjusting to the education environment. Induction programmes are available for students in all Academic Schools to help prepare you to be confident and independent learners prior to enrolment.
 

Additional learning needs
 

Bournemouth University is fully committed to supporting students with additional learning needs. Support is tailored to individual need and may include guidance on obtaining support through the Disabled Students' Allowance scheme, specialist support from a dyslexia tutor, access to note takers and support during your examinations.
 

For more information, please contact us about the Additional Learning Needs Service.