Higher Certificate in Business (Year 2) (L6, 60 ECTS)

Program Overview

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Higher Certificate in Business (Year 2) (L6, 60 ECTS)

Course Overview

This programme delivers business knowledge and skills which form the basis for a career in industry, commerce or the public service. You will gain an understanding of the functional areas of business and of the factors which influence business success. On graduation, you should be able to use your knowledge and skills to solve technical and human problems in a business/commercial context. You will also learn how effective interpersonal relations at work contribute to the public image of an organisation and to its progress.

This course will open up a range of opportunities in terms of your future career direction. Combining studies within the core business disciplines, you will be provided with an opportunity to consolidate and apply business skills within a innovative business environment. This will offer you a distinct advantage in securing graduate employment.

Programme Overview

Programme Modules

• Semester 1
  • Business Mathematics and Computer Applications
  • Micro and Macro Economics
  • Business and Contract Law
• Semester 2
  • Management Accounting
  • Applied Practice 2 – Organisational Alignment
  • Marketing Management in a Digital Age

Module Details

Module 1: Business Mathematics and Computer Applications

Module Aim: This module will introduce the student to the practical elements of Information Technology and file management and the fundamental importance of business mathematics. Together with instruction in the use and application of Microsoft Applications software, this ensures the student is competently prepared to produce business documents, reports, presentations, spreadsheets and emails. The student will be equipped to collaborate and work remotely through the use of an on-line video conferencing platform.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Demonstrate an understanding of financial mathematics and assess investment proposals involving the time value of money.
2. Apply statistical measures to data and communicate numerical information graphically.
3. Analyse probabilities applying to everyday business situations and apply probabilities using the normal probability distribution.
4. Utilise the use of Microsoft Excel to perform relevant calculations and to manage data efficiently.
5. Illustrate skill and effective use of Microsoft Word to complete professional business documents.
6. Develop skill and effective use of Microsoft PowerPoint to prepare creative presentations and to deliver a slide show using on-line video conferencing technology.

Module 2: Micro and Macro Economics

Module Aim: Microeconomics studies individual choice, consumers, firms and Government being the subjects of this choice. Macroeconomics is concerned with the operation of the economy as a whole where we deal with aggregate variables. Arising out of this study is an appreciation of policy issues and their impact on social, economic and environmental sustainability. The purpose of this module is to develop an understanding of the behaviour and actions of individual agents in the economy. This module aims to introduce students to the core principles and terminology of microeconomics and macroeconimcs and their role in business. Students will develop a range of economic analytical skills including numerical, graphical, research and modelling methods that can be applied in a variety of business careers.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Discuss the fundamental principles and models of microeconomics and macroeconomics.
2. Apply the basic principles of microeconomic and macroeconomic theory to the contemporary economic and business environment.
3. Describe the workings of a market economy and the role of Government within such an economy.
4. Interpret basic microeconomics and macreconomic problems through the production of diagrams and graphs and the application of basic quantitative techniques.
5. Identify the macroeconomic business and demographic forces that drive the growth of national and international business, entrepreneurship and innovation.
6. Present data and other relevant information based on current microeconomics and macroeconomic statistics and reports.

Module 3: Business and Contract Law

Module Aim: This module introduces students to the sources of law, the structure and practice of the administration of law in Ireland. It also explores the essential elements of business law and the manner in which contract law, tort law, data protection laws and employment law are administered. Furthermore this module will enable students to apply legal concepts and legal reasoning to a range of issues confronted in business.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Explain the differences between civil and criminal law, the different categories of law, sources of law and the administration of the legal system.
2. Describe the essential elements of the Law of Tort and their application within a business context.
3. Discuss the key elements of the Law of Contract and their application within a business context.
4. Define the principles of Employment and Data Protection Laws and their application within a business context.
5. Apply research, problem-solving and the appropriate legal rules and principles relevant to factual business scenarios.
6. Appraise the essential elements of a legally binding contract.

Module 4: Management Accounting

Module Aim: The learner will study management accounting techniques, used to provide managers with information to assist with planning, controlling and decision making. The students will develop a competency for preparing budgets and appraising measurement and control techniques in management accounting.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Demonstrate basic skills in the area of costing, particularly accounting for materials, labour and overheads.
2. Prepare budgets and appraise their use in management accounting.
3. Apply performance measurement and control techniques used in management accounting.
4. Evaluate the use of marginal costing for decision-making and prepare and evaluate break even analysis information.
5. Describe the various decision-making techniques used in management accounting.
6. Discuss the appropriate pricing strategy for a relevant business.

Module 5: Applied Practice 2: Organisational Alignment

Module Aim: This module affords students the opportunity to implement the core work practice skills to compliment the other taught modules. Students will be required to make a business case proposal and it will form the basis of a work based learning project that will demonstrate the ability to engage as a skilled practitioner in their discipline. The aim of the module is to encourage learners to develop integrative learning, independent thought and critical reflection skills as they bring together a range of concepts, theories, frameworks and practices. For candidates that are currently not working, previous experience can be drawn upon with support from desk based case studies.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Describe their role in an organisation, and that they can identify potential areas for improvement, with an awareness of the methodology required to deliver an internal project.
2. Discuss the benefits of a SWOT analysis for your domain area of study. Develop an understanding of the business and industry environment of the modern workplace, identifying roles and potential impact while creating awareness of the necessity for continual organisational change.
3. Conduct a SWOT and PESTLE analysis for an organisation, including departmental SWOT and PESTLE as necessary.
4. Conduct a Value Chain Analysis as applied to the organisation.
5. Demonstrate the competence to conduct work and manage projects in a methodologically sound and ethical manner while giving due consideration to assisted business and project risks.
6. Develop independence, self-reliance, moral and ethical judgement in the context of professional decision making and leadership and communicate effectively using both verbal and written skills. Reflect on, analyse and document the learning experience resulting from applied practice.

Module 6: Marketing Management in a Digital Age

Module Aim: This module enables the students to acquire an understanding of marketing management but also acknowledges that we live in a time when technology has fundamentally changed how marketing is delivered in organisations globally. Provides students with the concepts, processes, frameworks and experiences that are useful for managing marketing in a digital age.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Demonstrate an importance of marketing as a management function in an ever-changing digital environment globally.
2. Identify and review the customer’s role in marketing management and the impact that digital has had on consumers.
3. Discuss methods used for researching, planning, segmenting, targeting and positioning markets which help product and services companies compete effectively in the business environment.
4. Evaluate the impact of digital on the marketing mix and understand the: shaping of the product strategy, the development of the pricing strategy and the assessment of the role of marketing channels.
5. Outline the importance of integrating traditional and digital tools into a marketing communications strategy.
6. Evaluate global reaching digital marketing platforms and tools to enhance marketing strategies.

Entry Requirements

• QQI Level 6 Certificate (60 ECTS) or Recognition of Prior Learning (APL/APEL)

Schedule

• 2-3 evenings per week 6pm to 9pm (online) Plus selected Saturdays per 9am – 1pm (online)

Fee

• €2,500
• This programme is funded under the Part Time Fee Scheme (SUSI) for Selected Undergraduate Programmes.

Duration

• One Year

Progression

• Successful graduates of this programme are eligible for Level 7 undergraduate business programmes within TUS and/or elsewhere.

This course will prepare you for a successful business career. Areas you can specialise in include accounting, banking, insurance, marketing, human resource management, administration, retail services and computing. Our sought-after graduates have gone on to pursue a wide variety of careers in companies ranging from small indigenous Irish companies to large multinational corporations.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

This Higher Certificate in Business (Year 2) program is designed to provide students with the foundational business knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career in various sectors, including industry, commerce, and the public service. The program aims to equip students with an understanding of the core functional areas of business and the factors that contribute to business success. Upon completion, graduates will be able to apply their knowledge and skills to solve technical and human problems within a business/commercial context. The program also emphasizes the importance of effective interpersonal relations in the workplace and their impact on an organization's public image and progress.

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Outline:

• Program Structure: The program is delivered over one year, with modules spread across two semesters.
• Modules:
• Semester 1:
• Business Mathematics and Computer Applications:
This module covers essential mathematical concepts and their application in business, along with the use of computer applications relevant to business operations.
• Micro and Macro Economics: This module explores the principles of microeconomics and macroeconomics, providing students with an understanding of how economic forces influence business decisions and the overall economy.
• Business and Contract Law: This module introduces students to the legal framework governing business operations, including contract law, business structures, and relevant legislation.
• Semester 2:
• Management Accounting:
This module focuses on the principles and practices of management accounting, covering topics such as cost accounting, budgeting, and financial analysis.
• Applied Practice 2 – Organisational Alignment: This module provides students with practical experience in applying business concepts and skills to real-world scenarios, focusing on organizational alignment and strategic decision-making.
• Marketing Management in a Digital Age: This module explores the principles and practices of marketing in the digital age, covering topics such as digital marketing strategies, social media marketing, and e-commerce.
• Schedule: The program is delivered online, with classes typically held 2-3 evenings per week from 6pm to 9pm, plus selected Saturdays from 9am to 1pm.

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Careers:

• Potential Career Paths: Graduates of this program are well-prepared for a variety of business careers, including:
• Accounting
• Banking
• Insurance
• Marketing
• Human Resource Management
• Administration
• Retail Services
• Computing
• Opportunities: Graduates can find employment in a wide range of companies, from small indigenous Irish businesses to large multinational corporations.
• Outcomes: The program aims to equip graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in a competitive business environment.

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Other:

• Progression: Successful graduates are eligible to progress to Level 7 undergraduate business programs within TUS or other institutions.
• Program Delivery: The program is delivered online, providing flexibility for students who are unable to attend traditional on-campus classes.