MA Investigative Management

Program Overview

The MA Investigative Management program at the University of Sunderland equips professionals with advanced skills in leadership, critical thinking, and decision-making for effective investigation management. Through a blend of theory and practice, students develop a deep understanding of investigative procedures and enhance their capabilities in research, analysis, and communication. The program prepares graduates for senior investigative roles in various sectors, including law enforcement, private security, and government agencies.

Program Outline

MA Investigative Management at the University of Sunderland: A Detailed Program Analysis

Degree Overview:

Objectives:

• Enhance critical thinking and applied research skills for effective business management.
• Understand the impact of professional leadership in investigations.
• Develop advanced critical decision-making skills within investigative contexts.
• Analyze and critically evaluate information relevant to investigative procedures.
• Enhance leadership and management capabilities in investigative practice.

Description:

This cross-disciplinary program emphasizes merging theory and practice. Students benefit from support from academic staff and professionals with extensive experience in investigation. The course content focuses on developing a deep understanding of investigative management in the context of practical experience and professional situations. The dissertation module allows students to tailor their studies to specific career needs and research interests.

Outline:

Course Modules:

• Advanced Critical Thinking and Applied Research Skills (30 credits): This module builds critical understanding of business management processes and research strategies.
Students explore critical analysis and argumentation in conducting research and presenting findings.
• Professional Leadership and Decision-Making in Investigation (30 credits): This module examines the impact of leadership on investigative practices and explores various leadership theories.
Students analyze the changing professional environment and develop their leadership and decision-making skills.
• Critical Decision-Making in Investigation (30 credits): This module focuses on developing critical decision-making skills within investigative contexts.
Students examine the approaches to critical evaluation by various stakeholders and their impact on investigative outcomes.
• Advanced Investigative Management Proposal (30 credits): Students identify a key operational area in investigative procedures requiring further analysis.
They write a detailed assessment tailored for a practitioner-friendly peer journal.
• Investigative Management Dissertation (60 credits): This module builds on research skills by applying them to an in-depth analysis of a chosen topic related to investigative management.
Students conduct research, analyze data, interpret findings, and present their conclusions in a comprehensive dissertation.

Course Schedule:

• October 23-24, 2024
• February 12-13, 2025
• June 4-5, 2025
• October 15-16, 2025
• January 14-15, 2026

Note:

Some modules have prerequisites. Please refer to the "Help and Advice" section on the website for more information about prerequisites.

Assessment:

• Coursework: Students complete various assignments throughout the modules, which demonstrate their understanding of key concepts, apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios, and develop critical analysis and communication skills.
• Research Proposal: This assessment requires students to develop a detailed proposal for their dissertation research, demonstrating their ability to identify a relevant research topic, formulate research questions, and design a methodology for conducting research.
• Dissertation: The dissertation is a significant piece of independent research, requiring students to analyze and interpret data to produce a well-structured and critical evaluation of their chosen topic within the field of investigative management.
The assessment criteria vary depending on the specific assignment or module. However, they generally focus on demonstrating a deep understanding of the subject, applying theoretical knowledge to practical contexts, critical analysis, effective communication of findings, and research skills.

Teaching:

• Lectures: These sessions provide students with an overview of key concepts, theories, and current trends related to investigative management.
• Workshops: Workshops offer a more interactive learning environment where students can apply theoretical knowledge to practical case studies, engage in group discussions, and develop their problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Self-study: Students are expected to engage in independent study to supplement their understanding of the taught material, further explore specific topics of interest, and develop their research and critical thinking skills.
• One-on-one Guidance: Throughout the program, students receive personalized support from academic staff and professionals with extensive experience in the field.
This guidance ensures students receive tailored feedback on their progress, address any challenges they may face, and receive assistance in developing their research and writing skills.

The program also adopts innovative teaching approaches, incorporating real-world case studies and simulations to enhance the learning experience and prepare students for professional practice.

Careers:

• Senior investigative positions within police forces: Graduates can apply their advanced leadership and management skills, critical thinking and decision-making abilities, and in-depth understanding of investigative practices to take on roles with greater responsibility and leadership within police investigations.
• Investigative roles in other sectors: The program also prepares graduates for investigative roles across various sectors, including private security firms, forensic science organizations, government agencies, and fraud investigation companies.
• Further academic or research pursuits: The program can also serve as a stepping stone for those who wish to continue their academic journey or pursue research careers in related fields like criminology, forensic psychology, or criminal justice.
The program's emphasis on developing critical skills, analytical abilities, and research expertise makes graduates highly sought-after in various investigative fields, opening doors to diverse career options and advancement opportunities.

Other:

• The program emphasizes practical experience and professional development.
Students benefit from access to experienced professionals who provide guidance and share their insights from real-world investigative work. This ensures graduates enter the workforce with valuable practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge.
• The program is offered part-time, allowing working professionals the flexibility to advance their studies while fulfilling their career commitments.
This flexible study model makes the program accessible to a wider range of individuals seeking to enhance their investigative expertise and career prospects.

Please note:

The information provided here is based on the current program details and may be subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please visit the official website of the University of Sunderland or contact the program coordinator directly.

The total fee for this course is £5,300 (£2,650 per year). Please note, part-time study isn't available to international students.