Module Descriptors

Research Modules

Qualitative Research Method and Paradigms

This module covers the underlying theory and forms of qualitative research approaches, methods and ethics as they apply to the context of the programme.

Quantitative Methods

This module aims to familiarise students with quantitative methods of data collection and analysis.

Research Design and Planning

This module concentrates on the development and design of students’ own research proposals.

Subject Study Modules

Business Excellence

The purpose of this module is to provide a solid understanding of different theories of excellence, approaches and models in the UAE and beyond, such as the Baldridge framework for performance excellence, UAE excellence models, statistical methods in quality management, business excellence and leading, and building and sustaining business excellence.

Global Management

The purpose of this module is to provide a solid understanding of theories and debates in global management relevant to doctoral thesis research. This will involve consideration of the challenges of globalisation and varieties of capitalism, and will attend to identifying differences between countries in government regulation, societal and industry contexts, organisational cultures and management practices.

Elective Modules

Financial Analysis & Strategy

This module aims to provide students with a comprehensive knowledge of concepts, theories and models used in the discipline of finance. Students will acquire an in-depth knowledge of emerging trends in financial markets, corporate ownership, shareholder activism, governance and legislation. Students will also develop new knowledge on cross-border capital flows and the related financial exposures.

Case Studies in Organisational and Institutional Change

This module introduces students to the theory and practice of managing organisational culture and change. Students are given insight, via case studies, into the practical aspects of managing change and the essential tools for successful implementation. Students are required to analyse a specific change scenario and make associated recommendations. In addition, students are expected to reflect on their own abilities in relation to managing the process of change.

Innovation Theories/Models and Entrepreneurship

The module aims to prepare students for their doctorate research topics. The module will introduce students to a variety of ongoing research innovation and entrepreneurship and related themes.

Organisation, Projects and Sustainability

This module is designed to provide advanced knowledge and higher level understanding of concepts of organisation in relation to the public, private and not-for-profit sectors. The focus of interest is on projects and their implementation for achieving goals of strategic alignment, knowledge management, sustainability and corporate social responsibility.

Management of Knowledge in Projects

The aim of this module is to teach the principles and technologies of knowledge management in the context of projectised organisations. A case study approach, as and where appropriate, will be adopted in introducing the module contents. The module covers the fundamental concepts in the study of knowledge and its creation, representation, dissemination, use and re-use, and management. The focus is on methods, techniques, and tools for computer support of knowledge management, knowledge acquisition and knowledge sharing in projectised organisations.

Project Dynamics and Complexity

This module is designed to provide advanced knowledge and higher level of understanding of the use of systems thinking and dynamic modelling to address complexity in project management.

Managing Large Programmes

This module addresses the special requirements of large programmes and mega-projects. A distinguishing factor is the inherent increase in complexity that requires a different, more advanced, skill set. The module draws from international large project and programme case studies in the public and private sector that cover manufacturing, construction, and service industries. Key differentiating factors for large programme management considered include: stakeholder and supply chain management complexity; risk management for high risk profile programmes; cost estimating and whole life-cycle costs; and effective use of knowledge management techniques to ensure that lessons are learned from programmes.

Evolutionary Project Management

This module aims to provide advanced knowledge and explore emerging research themes on organisation, portfolio, programmes and project strategy, structure, process, risk, tools and techniques.