The Business World

Module Description

The aim of this module is for the student to have a grasp of current issues in the Maltese business environment and what is likely to impact the local businesses, especially when selling on credit.

It is critical for the student to understand the internal structure and anatomy of the business organisation and the various types of businesses and entities. An appraisal of alternative business objectives will be examined, including profit, market share, business growth, management styles, and social responsibility.

The student will be exposed to the internal factors and external forces that affect businesses. The micro and macro environment will be presented including the various stakeholders, the market threats and opportunities, the legal aspect concerning a business, the demographic environment and how it is changing, the circular flow of income and the business cycle, fiscal, credit and interest policies, the impact of inflation, unemployment and income policies on the businesses community and economy, and the political environment.

International trade is also critical to Maltese businesses and the student will appreciate its importance alongside the challenges that it brings when dealing with foreign organisations.

This module will also make use of advanced case studies (e.g. multinational expansions, major disruptions) to reinforce the capacity for adaptive strategic analysis.

Entry Requirements

Candidates who apply for this course will possess:

• A qualification at MQF Level 4 (one ‘A’ Level or equivalent in any subject/ a related (professional) qualification)
• a pass in English Language* and Mathematics at MQF Level 3 (‘O’ Level or equivalent).

In the case of students who do not possess all the formal required academic qualifications, then the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process could be applied such that if evidence of equivalent learning and/or related experience (e.g., assistant accountant, credit controller, etc.) is found then the applicant could still be accepted on the course.

Evidence may include:

• A detailed CV outlining relevant work experience and responsibilities.
• Employer reference letters outlining job role, duration, and key competencies.
• Related documentation demonstrating relevant skills (e.g. work portfolio).
• Such RPL process may subject applicants to an interview held with a board of experts within the field, chosen specifically by IDEA College, so as to verify their practical knowledge, experiences, and prior learning.

*Students whose first language is not English and do not possess an ‘O’ level pass in English Language will be required to demonstrate English language capability at IELTS level 6.0 or equivalent.

Target Audience

This qualification targets:

• Individuals seeking to advance their academic and professional knowledge in Credit Management and Collections.
• Individuals wanting to pursue a wide range of career paths within this field.
• Individuals wanting to enhance their ability to interpret, assess and communicate credit management related information.

Career Paths

This programme equips the audience with the competences, knowledge, and skills listed in this application. The potential positions for which this programme aims to prepare could be and are not limited to:

• Credit manager
• Credit controller.
• Credit analyst.
• Collections specialist.
• Financial assistant.

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:

• Assessment 1
• Assessment 2

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.