MBA learning and assessment
As a student on the Lancaster MBA, what will a week of study typically involve? There’s no simple answer to that. The mix of teaching and the various group and individual styles of working means that, though your days will be full, there's unlikely to be any predictable routine. This is particularly true when you are working on team-based projects.
However, with that proviso in mind, we have tried below to give some broad indications of the amount of time you can expect to spend on various elements of the learning process.
Teaching and learning styles
A diverse range of teaching and learning methods are used on the various modules within the programme. Sessions typically involve groupwork and interactive discussion to draw out the experience within the classroom and relate theory to practical experience. Case studies are used extensively, and some sessions will also involve simulations. Tutors are drawn from across all departments of the School and there are many guest speakers from business and industry.
"There is never a quiet moment in class: the classes are truly interactive."
Paolo Battimiello
MBA, 2006
Assessment processes
Assessment is given in each course/module taken – for example, in Part 1 you take six modules and undertake specific coursework assignments for each of these. The assignments may be individual or group-based, or a mixture of the two. The assignments and projects require you to adopt an objective approach which is theory-led but practice-driven. This enables you to draw on your own observations and experience of working life. The type of assessment used on particular modules is indicated in each module description.
Students describe how they adjusted to life on the MBA and the accompanying workload.
While most modules are assessed through coursework, you also take integrated case study examinations. These examinations test your ability to think ‘cross-functionally’ and help to integrate your learning.
Personal study
All courses require pre-reading and preparation, and personal research – you should expect to spend a minimum 10% of your time on this throughout the course.
The University library, with its extensive resources of print-based and online materials, will be a vital element in this process. Data points in all campus rooms allow you to access the library catalogue and many other online databases from on-campus accommodation. You have 24-hour access to the School's computer labs and there is a wireless network in the School.
Typical weekly activities
Lectures: up to 30 hours in first two terms
Seminars/tutorials: up to 4 hours
Group work: typically around 6 hours (more for some modules)
Personal research and reading: at least 4 hours
These figures are an indication only
