Master of International Business

Purpose

This qualification provides learners with the ability to understand the issues affecting contemporary international business. Academically rigorous, the course enables learners to gain the appropriate knowledge and analytical skills that can be applied in a variety of organisational settings including the corporate, governmental and not-for-profit sectors. The course enables those seeking either career entry or progression or those with a special interest in international business, to extend their skills and knowledge base by being better able to comprehend, critically evaluate and interpret the workings of global business.

The Master of International Business aims to produce graduates who will

• Be critical and creative scholars who produce innovative solutions to problems, apply research skills to business challenges and communicate effectively and perceptively.
• Be responsible and effective global citizens who engage in an internationalised world, exhibit cross-cultural competence and demonstrate ethical values.
• Have a comprehensive understanding of their discipline and be able to provide discipline-based solutions relevant to the business, professional and public policy communities they serve.
• Have advanced knowledge at Master's level in international business.

Rationale

In an emerging economy, people are the country's strength and to this end, research that improves the quality and condition of its peoples is paramount. The qualification is aligned to the need to build capacity, develop capabilities and resources of managers in the global economy. This institution has identified six priorities addressing the most important challenges of the 21st century. Research teams that transcend traditional disciplinary boundaries examine issues holistically.

The priorities include sustainability, peace and security, economic development, innovation, health and disease and community cohesion. This qualification aims to create an environment that values, supports and nurtures future research and development of leaders. It is the intention of this institution, through this qualification, to expand the world-class level of academic and technical expertise to enhance the research experience.

The qualification focuses on strategic planning for international operations and provides an in-depth understanding of the organisational capabilities required for international operations, including specialised functions such as international marketing, finance and human resource management.

Applicants should be able to communicate well; articulate thoughts and concepts verbally and in written form, work well in teams and demonstrate the ability to solve problems, both individually and collectively. Applicants should also be proficient in computer use and be familiar with Microsoft Office.

Practical experience in a related field is highly recommended.

Recognition of Prior Learning

Recognition of Prior Learning may be applied in allowing access into this Master's qualification. Recognition of Prior Learning will be determined on a case-by-case basis. Relevant work and practical experience will be included when considering applications for Recognition of Prior Learning. Prior learning and years of experience in related fields will be considered in conjunction with the academic record of the candidate and based on the institutional policy of Recognition of Prior Learning.

Access to the Qualification

• A four year qualification or equivalent Honours Degree in a related field of study, from an accredited institution, with an average of 65% or higher.

Or

• Successful acceptance through Recognition of Prior Learning.

This qualification consists of 10 compulsory modules worth 20 Credits each and a Research Report worth 40 Credits, at NQF Level 9, totalling 240 Credits.

Modules

• Accounting and finance for international managers.
• International trade law.
• Introduction to international economics.
• International management.
• Cross-cultural management communication.
• International business strategy.
• International business theory and practice.
• Marketing and the international consumer.
• Introductory management research methods.
• Research report (introduction).

Total Credits: 200.

• Research report.

Total Credits: 40.

1. Access, analyse, organise and critically evaluate existing knowledge in contemporary local and international business.
2. Demonstrate specialist forefront knowledge and expertise in the chosen field and the competency to apply these creatively within the international business environment.
3. Critically analyse and evaluate the outcomes of interventions, techniques, strategies or processes in the business environment.
4. Engage in independent research and produce findings in the form of a research report from a range of appropriate research designs, methods, techniques and technologies in the chosen focus area within the commercial sector.

Critical Cross-Field Outcomes

This qualification enables all the Critical Cross-Field Outcomes to be addressed.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Current literature and research focusing in the business area are accessed, analysed and organised systematically.
• Evaluations demonstrate clear evidence of effective application of the principles of research practice in the commercial area.
• Evaluations are purposefully used as the basis for planning, implementing and making recommendations.
• Conclusions and recommendations are justified by the use of appropriate evidence and arguments.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Analyses of the problems and issues reflect a purposeful and critical application of advanced theory, current knowledge and expertise in the chosen focus area.
• Interventions and/or recommendations reflect purposeful and creative plans to seek solutions based on theory and proven methods within the field.
• Discussions and/or interventions reflect advanced application of appropriate skills, strategies and techniques in accordance with corresponding theoretical assumptions within the field.
• Research and/or interventions include the appropriate and creative use of tools and/or data relevant to the chosen field.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Evaluations comprehensively describe outcomes of interventions, techniques, strategies or processes in relation to the stated goals and in accordance with corresponding theoretical assumptions.
• Evaluations critically analyse outcomes in accordance with the identified needs and issues within the chosen focus area.
• Evaluations are purposefully used as the basis for planning, implementing and making recommendations.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• The research inquiry is planned and conducted on the basis of a range of appropriate research designs, methods, techniques and technologies for the specific research problem.
• Research themes are appropriately identified and demarcated.
• Analyses of the research theme include a comprehensive and critical review of current literature and investigations.
• Selected research methods, techniques and technologies show evidence of a clear understanding of relevant research theory and practice.
• The research report critically and coherently describes theoretical arguments, the research process, methodology, results, conclusions and recommendations.
• The research report displays skill in extrapolating key findings, justifiable conclusions and making feasible recommendations.

Integrated Assessment

Assignments and the research project will be assessed at various stages throughout the period of learning as per department policy. The total evaluation process includes both internal and external evaluation and a self-evaluation process.