5 Things You Need To Know About Successful Postgraduate Study

Dr Jill Collis from Brunel Business School provides advice on how to be successful and what to expect from a postgraduate study experience in a UK university. Follow her advice if you are about to start your MSc or MBA degree.

Jill Collis is Director of the Accounting and Auditing Research Centre at Brunel University and the Programme Director for Accounting and Business Management MSc . In addition to her research publications, she has published text books on accounting and research methods. Her accessible writing style and active-learning approach reflects her experience as a mature student and her understanding of lecturers’ needs.

1. Make the most of your investment

• Prepare for lectures/seminars
• Take notes and ask questions
• Read and conduct independent study
• Make use of lecturers’ access hours
• Take advantage of Library, ASK and Business Life
• Take formative feedback to heart
• Excel at coursework and exams

2. Explore available knowledge and gain better understanding

• You’ll be exposed to knowledge and critical understanding of theoretical and applied perspectives on a range of business and management topics
• Develop the capacity to understand historical and current developments in response to changes in the business environment

3. Get your cognitive thinking hat on

• The ability to think critically and independently is key: question and critique to arrive at your own perspective
• Master the ability to solve complex business problems and make decisions in the face of uncertainty: typically includes establishing criteria, using appropriate decision-making techniques, identifying and evaluating options and making recommendations

4. Gain practical, transferable skills for life

• Train how to use information and knowledge effectively: typically includes scanning and organising data, synthesising and analysing in order to abstract meaning from information and share knowledge
• Develop  numeracy and quantitative skills
• Develop effective written communication of complex ideas and arguments
• Develop sustainable independent learning skills

5. Don’t mistake UG and PG research

Criteria to be satisfied by a Bachelor’s dissertation:

• A well-structured and convincing account of a study
• The resolution of a problem or the outcome of an experiment
• Evidence of awareness of the literature

Criteria to be satisfied by a taught Master’s dissertation:

• An ordered, critical and reasoned exposition of knowledge gained through the student’s efforts
• A comprehensive review of the literature

 

Find our more about our range of taught Master’s, an AMBA-accredited MBA programme and the chance to undertake doctoral research leading to a PhD here.

CIPD accredits Brunel Business School’s HRM programmes

Brunel Business School is proud to announce the accreditation of MSc Human Resources Management and MSc Human Resources and Employment Relations by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD).

CIPD is the world’s largest Chartered HR and development professional body working together with over 100 institutions around the world to set global standards for HR and support development of HR professionals.

CIPD accreditation enables students and graduates of the MSc Human Resource Management and MSc Human Resource Management and Employment Relations to gain access to the wealth of resources provided by the Institute. These include a bi-monthly magazine, People Management, which provides key insight into contemporary HR issues in practice. The CIPD also commission major research studies into key areas of HR and HR-ER practice, providing information to students and informing decisions of practicing managers. Through their nationwide branch network, the CIPD provide a forum for practitioners and students to meet on a regular basis, engage with high profile speakers and network in respect of areas of common interest.

Dr Savita Kumra, the Course Director for HRM programmes, said:

“These are exciting times to be embarking upon a career in Human Resource Management and Employment Relations; CIPD accreditation ensures that as a School we build on the undoubted academic rigour of our programmes through the linkage with practice and access to cutting edge practice-based reports and studies.”

 

“With the CIPD accreditation our MSc programmes provide the perfect opportunity to achieve a Masters degree and the knowledge required towards a professional qualification (CIPD)” said Dr Ana-Cristina Costa, Director of Postgraduate Studies in Brunel Business School.

Find out more:

• Human Resource Management MSc
• Human Resources and Employment Relations MSc

 

Lifetime Achievement Award for Brunel Business School Professor

Prof Jarvis

In recognition of his contribution to accounting and research, Professor Robin Jarvis received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the British Accounting and Finance Association (BAFA) at the annual conference in April 2013.

The British Accounting and Finance Association (BAFA) is the working name of the British Accounting Association which was established in 1947.  It is a UK learned society which brings together those interested in teaching and research in accounting and finance.

Robin is a Professor in Accounting at Brunel Business School and brings specialist professional and academic expertise. After many years as Head of SME Affairs at the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, he is now their special advisor. He also plays a key role on a large number of international advisory panels and working groups. Robin is the third member of the Accounting and Auditing Research Centre (AARC) to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award and joins Professor Len Skerratt and Professor Mike Page in the Brunel hall of fame.

Prof Jarvis holds membership of a number of Advisory Panels and Working Groups:

• International Accounting Standards Board (IASB): Advisory Panel on financial reporting by small and medium-sized entities and in emerging and transition economies 2003 -2009
• UK Treasury Working Group : access to finance for SMEs
• European Reporting Advisory Group (EFRAG) – Supervisory Board, Member; Nominating Committee, and SME Working Group
• International Federations of Accountants (IFAC) – Small Medium Size Practices Committee. Chair SME Financial Reporting Task Force.
• UEAPME – Economic and Fiscal Committee
• Federation Des Experts Comptables Europeens -SME Working Party
• Council Member of the Institute of Small Business and Entrepreneurship

He also sits on editorial boards of the following Research Journals:

• International Small Business Journal, Sage Publications
• Strategic Change: Briefings in Entrepreneurial Finance, Wiley
• Journal of Small Business and Enterprise Development
• International Journal of Business Excellence

Prof Jarvis has contributed to the development of the MSc in Accounting and Business Management led by Dr Jill Collins. The programme will be commencing in September 2014. It offers students an opportunity to:

• Develop an appreciation of the role of accounting within the overall function of management
• Acquire technical accounting skills and integrate theoretical and conceptual considerations with practice
• Evaluate the principles and theories that underpin accounting and management
• Critically reflect on the role of the main stakeholders and the influence of regulatory frameworks on accounting and management
• Develop analytical and problem solving abilities and apply them in making management decisions
• Review research on current issues in accounting and management and apply accepted research methods to investigate a specific research question independently
• Develop transferable skills that will enhance employability.

To find our more about this programme please visit our Postgraduate Study pages.

More Brunel MBA international graduates able to work in UK this year

The UKBA have announced an extension to the Graduate Entrepreneur scheme for 2013, which will allow each Higher Education Institution to endorse up to 10 places on the scheme for MBA graduates, in addition to the 10 places for graduates of any subject. In general, the UKBA expanded the scheme from April 2013 to include an additional 1000 places for talented international MBA graduates.

Brunel University successfully bid for 10 places last year and following a rigorous application and selection process, we endorsed 5 Graduate Entrepreneurs, who have all since been granted their visas and are working on their businesses and business plans according to the rules of the scheme.

Brunel Placement and Career Centre will be running information seminars in April, with one exclusively for MBA students, to inform them about the scheme, and answer any general questions they might have. Following those seminars students will be asked to express their interest in applying for the Graduate Entrepreneur scheme through an on-line form. Please check the PCC website after Easter for details.

To find out more about the MBA programme please visit the Brunel MBA website. 

Boot Camp for Applicants Amazing, Say Participants

University applicants got a crash course in success during the Brunel Business Boot Camp, which took place from 20 – 22 February 2013. A second Boot Camp will be organised by Brunel Business School at the beginning of April 2013.

The Business Boot Camp at Brunel Business School is an exclusive event for candidates holding an offer to pursue their Business Degree in Brunel University. The Boot Camp is a residential event, allowing participants to truly experience being a student and living on campus.

This interactive event offers participants an opportunity to:

• Engage within a stimulating learning environment
• Be exposed to the latest business thinking
• Develop aptitude and critical thinking skills
• Be exposed to motivational speakers such as “Meet the Apprentice” Saira Khan, as seen on TV
• Participate in business simulation games
• Network with other high achieving applicants
• Experience what it’s like being a University student before actually going to a University
• Get a taste of Brunel Business Life Employability Programme

Here’s what some the participants of the February 13’ Boot Camp had to say about the event in the Boot Camp Facebook Group:

•    Antonio Demendoza I want to thank everyone for such an amazing time at Brunel these past 3 days. The fact that we all got along and made such close friendships just goes to show that it was a very fun event. Thanks to the team leaders who made everything just that bit easier and interesting, and thank you to the teachers who we learned everything off. I’ll miss you guys, best of luck, and hopefully see some of you in the years to come x

•    Ramya Govindaraj What can I say? Had the most unforgettable time of my life! Met a bunch of wonderful people and I’m so glad that I came. Thank you for the fantastic opportunity and thank you to all who helped. Will be seeing you guys in September!

•    Keisha Renaud Had a fantastic experience at the Brunel Boot Camp, I mean my fellow boot campers have said it all! Great time, met some amazing people you guys inspired me. So glad I came and I’ll definitely be looking out for all of you guys in September. Good luck everyone

•    Ashika Mistry Never thought I could learn so much in 3 days. I have met some lovely people and thank you to Brunel for giving us all this amazing experience. Hopefully will be seeing some of you guys again and hope everyone achieves what they want in life! x

•    Kiran Bachra Thanks so much to Brunel for setting up such a quality experience! Thanks to everyone involved for being so friendly and generally being lovely people, I had a great time! Good luck to everyone for the future, wahey xx

•    Khadijah Yasmin The past few days were amazing! Just like to thank the staff at Brunel for giving us this opportunity and of course the Boot Camp group leaders for taking care of us and being really friendly, thank you

•    Sarah Anne Lillingston Just got home. Thank you to the lecturers, group mentors, and even staff at Lancaster Lodge for a wonderful stay. I’ve taken so much away from the guest speakers and my peers. Each one of your presentations was fantastic!! Take care and I wish you all the best in succeeding your dream

•    Sofia ‘Saphire’ Peixoto Guys I had such an amazing time! I loved meeting all of you weird & wonderful people & thank you Brunel for letting me be a part of this. Hopefully I’ll see you all in September!!

•    Atish R Shah Thank you Brunel for this great opportunity and also the £100 amazon voucher!!! LOL =D This experience has helped me to develop and has given me a further understanding. Thank you to all the staff and mentors you guys are amazing!!! =D

•    Vincent Sam Thanks for the great learning experience. I shall be incorporating those breathing skills where I can, and much more than I have been for the last 18years. In all seriousness it shows it’s never too late to learn something new and develop your brand (self) no matter what you think you already know.

•    Hawa Hassania I’m so glad I got the chance to come to Brunel and meet all of you beautiful people, the last three days have been great fun! And thanks to all the staff and mentors you guys are amazing xx

•    Mark Jonathan Sacre So nobody really said it earlier but I’m guessing I speak for everyone when I say a huge thank you to Dave Snowden for an opportunity to be involved in a Uni like Brunel, something I was sure I would never get to do. Thank you for putting on a great 3 days!

•    Haseeb Salim Absolutely amazing three days!! Met the best people, and enjoyed every minute. After playing a 90 min football game I can happily go to bed!!!! keep in touch everyone xx

•    Aaron Newman-Arroyave Well back to work such a great time @ Brunel Bootcamp – everyone was so great and inspirational, hope to see you all September

•    Agata Fehrmann Amazing! Had so much fun! Would definitely do it again and for longer! Wish all the same people were coming in September!

•    Pius B Abitegeka I know I’m a bit late was getting some much needed sleep. I would firstly like to thank Brunel Business staff for all the help and advice and support whilst playing the game. I would also like to apologise on behalf of the Lodgers for giving you sleepless nights. I met some real good friends who I have no doubt that we will remain in touch. The total experience was absolutely priceless and reinforced my decision to come to Brunel. Lastly I’d like to thank all the participants of the business game thank you all for being genuine people and I sure do hope to see you all in September as for now more sleep for me

•    Hannah Catherine Parsons
Just got home, have had the best 3 days!!! U have thrown a spanner in the works Brunel…….well played Brunel……..well played!!! but honestly thank u so much 2 all involved can’t wait 2 c what the future holds 4 everyone, good luck!!!

•    Sophie Williams
Once again thank you so much for the chance to come to Brunel! By far the best three days I have ever had! Great laugh, dancing and people! Wish you the best of luck whatever pathway you all choose!

Prof Jarvis to review bank lending to SMEs in Wales

Professor Robin Jarvis, Head of SME Affairs, the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) and Professor of Accounting in Brunel Business School, Brunel University has been appointment to an Advisory Review Panel set up by Business Minister for Wales Edwina Hart to establish whether High Street banks are meeting the funding needs of Welsh SMEs . Read more: Wales Online

Prof Jarvis is also a member of such Advisory Panels and Working Groups as:

• International Accounting Standards Board (IASB): Advisory Panel on financial reporting by small and medium-sized entities and in emerging and transition economies 2003 -2009
• UK Treasury Working Group : access to finance for SMEs
• European Reporting Advisory Group (EFRAG) – Supervisory Board, Member; Nominating Committee, and SME Working Group
• International Federations of Accountants (IFAC) – Small Medium Size Practices Committee. Chair SME Financial Reporting Task Force.
• UEAPME – Economic and Fiscal Committee
• Federation Des Experts Comptables Europeens -SME Working Party
• Council Member of the Institute of Small Business and Entrepreneurship

Professor Jarvis’s current research interests is the process of accounting standard setting, financial reporting for SMEs and Business Support provisions for SMEs.

 

Brunel to join David Willetts MP on visit to the Gulf region

Professor Zahir Irani, Head of Brunel Business School, has been invited to join Rt Hon. David Willetts MP, Minister of State for Universities and Science, alongside senior representatives from institutions such as the LSE and the University of Southampton on an upcoming visit to the Gulf region.

This tour seeks to help showcase UK Education throughout the Gulf region and will coincide with the British Council-supported Going Global 2013 Conference in Dubai on the Internationalisation of Higher Education.

Brunel University has a strong and growing reputation in the Middle East and Gulf region, where it educates many students across a range of disciplines on its Uxbridge campus in the UK. Brunel Business School also has a physical presence in the Kingdom of Bahrain, where it has almost 40 students hosted at its collaborator University site undertaking PhD level research in subject areas that are of regional interest. Professor Irani and colleagues in the Brunel Business School have also been successful in securing external funding from the Qatar National Research Fund, further raising the profile of Brunel in this region.

BBS launches Drop-In Wednesdays for prospective students

Drop-In Wednesdays!

An opportunity to drop-in from 2pm to 4pm and ask us any questions you have about studying at Brunel Business School. Our Drop-in Wednesdays @ BBS are for everyone  interested in studying with us.

So don’t wait and drop-in!

BBS graduates share stories of their university experience

Successful graduates from Brunel Business School look back at their time at Brunel University and share their memories and the experiences they gained while studying for a Bachelor Degree with BBS.

It’s been an amazing journey

Waleed Ahmed Marketing and Admissions Team Brunel Business School

After visiting Brunel, my final decision about my future university was very clear. The first thing that caught my interest was its campus. It has everything: restaurants, a bank, bars, coffee shops, a massive library, an incredible sports and athletics centre all in an easy reach for its students. This really appealed to me. It was clear to me that this would be where I would like to live and study and it wasn’t long before I became a student here. Read more….

Graduated from BSc (Hons) Business and Management (eBusiness Systems), 2012

The support to help me gain my placement was beyond my expectations

Angel Chen Business Analyst, Morgan Stanley

I did a year’s placement in Morgan Stanley. The experience was invaluable as I had first-hand experience in the Operations department.

During my placement year, my performance was monitored by the placement tutor and there were regular contacts from the university. I felt supported in my personal and professional development by the academic staff. Soon afterwards, I was offered a graduate job by Morgan Stanley based on my performance during my placement year. Read more…

Graduated from BSc Business and Management (Accounting), 2010

The opportunities available to me have been outstanding

Siobhan Feeney  Volunteered for Global Vision International

Throughout my time at Brunel, the academic standard of lecturing was exceedingly high. The Business Life programme in BBS gave me the opportunity to develop many skills such as team work, and leadership. It increased my confidence in communication and presenting. I was provided with endless amounts of development and networking opportunities. It lead me to meet and work with some really amazing people! Read more….

Graduated from BSc Business and Management, 2012

 

Brunel Business School has supportive academic staff

Phillip Hughes IM Project Manager & EMEA Sales IT Ops Leader GE Aviation

I wanted to study in a campus university where there are lots of student activities happening on campus hence I chose Brunel. I made the right choice. Brunel Business School has supportive academic staff and the curriculum was designed to help students to gain graduate employment. Many of the modules were tailored to develop students’ work skills that are sought after by employers

such as analysing financial data, preparing a marketing plan etc.

There are many business schools to choose from – but I am glad that I chose Brunel. Read more…

Graduated from BSc Business and Management, 2010

Read more of these and other stories on our website. For more information about our Undergraduate Courses visit our Course pages.

90 Days to Job Success Course starts for graduates in Jan 2013

To help graduates succeed in a competitive labour market Brunel Business School and the award winning Placement and Career Centre have developed a short, intensive 90 day programme starting on 7th January 2013. With opportunities to structure and improve job search strategies, graduates will get hands-on support from careers consultants from the Placement and Careers Service.

Brunel Business School alumni can register for this bespoke, exclusive and completely free Personal & Professional Development course now and start the countdown to success on 7th January 2013. This course is a part of Business Life on-going development phase and will help graduates get closer to the job they want from the comfort of their own home!

Get closer to the job you want – in only 90 days!

 At the end of this course, graduates will:

• Have structure and focus required in job search efforts
• Be better equipped with the tools needed to conduct more successful job searches
• Understand what graduate employers are looking for in applicants especially in assessment centres
• Have confidence in their abilities and better manage their of expectations

Personalised assistance at time that suits you!

As this is a distance learning course graduates can complete the programme when and where convenient to them. Delivery is carried out remotely via a series of webinars  and email and Skype 1-2-1 sessions with careers consultants.

Apply today and start your 90 Days to Job Success on 7^th January!

To apply please complete the online application form. Alternatively, for further information, please contact business.life@brunel.ac.uk