Research Methods

Module Description

This module is designed for learners who want and need to gain understanding of research approaches and skills and gain an ability to deploy research methods in their studies or in professional lives. In particular, this module will aid those who have to conduct research as part of their postgraduate studies and it is for those who feel they would like additional support for self-improvement. 

This module is a comprehensive introduction to research methods and will cover broad topics:  the fundamentals of doing research, research methods, research design, data collection, and data analysis. In discussing each topic, the ethical implications of research will be covered. Research is a craft, and like any other craft, it takes practice to do it well. Therefore, this module places the student experience at the centre of our endeavours by engaging learners in a range of robust and challenging discussions and exercises. Learners will have opportunity to learn by doing in all aspects of the course—in class meetings, online classroom, and out-of-class assignments. 

No prior knowledge or experience in research is required to take this course.

Entry Requirements

Candidates who apply for this course must possess one of the following: 

• a Level 6 degree in a related field;  

OR  

• a Level 5 diploma or higher diploma in a discipline related to finance or equivalent, and 5 years’ work experience in a supervisory or managerial role within the sector. 

Preference is given to applicants having a Level 6 degree in a discipline related to finance and a minimum of 3 years’ work experience in management within the sector.  

Target Audience

• The course is targeted at:
• professionals seeking a career in the financial services industry;
• professionals already working in finance who are aiming to move into banking, corporate finance, financial analysis and/or investment/portfolio management.

Career Paths

The possible positions for which this programme aims to prepare you for include, but are not limited to:

• Financial Analyst
• Senior Finance Manager
• Finance Director
• Chief Financial Officer
• Risk Manager
• Portfolio Manager
• Investment Manager
• Fund Manager
• Compliance Manager

How you’ll be assessed

The course comprises:

• Evening classes for part-time courses.
• Classes held throughout the day for full-time courses.
• Guided learning, presentations, comprising synchronous online discussions, tutorials and/or videos.
• Self-study hours comprising research, reading and assignment work.

Assessment

Assessment is carried out via two mandatory components:

• Modular Assessment
• Dissertation Assessment

The programme includes different forms of assessment which allow for and promote students’ critical engagement. The formative and summative assessment tasks may include an in-class assignment and/or a home-based written assignment using diverse assessment tools which may take the form of online and in-class discussions, examinations, case studies, reports, proposals, essays, and presentations, etc., as applicable to the diverse modules.