Project Management, Leadership and Skills: Planning and Control
Postgraduate
MSc/PgDip/PgCert
Project Management
Salford Business School
Attendance
Full-time
Part-time
With placement
Course
One year
Two year
Two year
Next enrolment
June 2023
In a nutshell
International applicants: please check the international intakes page for the latest information and application dates.
he Project Management programme will challenge you to develop your knowledge and skills in current Project Management theories, industry trends, tools and techniques.
The programme is highly industry-focussed and culminates in a period of time on work experience. You can choose between a 9-12 month paid placement or the 3-6 month Industry Collaboration Project. Whichever you choose, you will put into practice the knowledge that you've learned.
Our teaching team consists of PM academics and practitioners who are actively involved in research; you will learn from them about the latest developments in areas such as Benefits Management and Realisation, Strategy Focus and Output-driven Project Management. New developments in technologies that promote remote and digital Project Management will also be covered, along with the impact of increased automation, artificial intelligence and additive manufacturing.
The course reflects current research trends and best practice in the industry. We offer you the opportunity to explore substantial technical elements and advances in Project Management in relation to operations, logistics and supply chain optimisation, through specifically designed modules.
Our expertise is supported by input from industry partners such as Jaguar Landrover, Brother International and Manchester Airport who have helped to develop the programme. You will have the opportunity to learn from other students, expert guest lecturers and from your interaction with the Association of Project Management (APM) invited speakers and events.
Six good reasons to choose Salford Business School:
- Learn the latest techniques of agile project management
- Study with active industry practitioners
- Excellent links with industry and professional bodies
- Real-world learning on the unique Industry Collaboration Project
- Multiple start dates to fit with your life priorities
- Beautiful campus just minutes from Manchester city centre
International students should apply for the MSc route.
Find out more, register for one of our Open Days, explore the Salford campus on our virtual tour or learn more about our Masters courses in business, finance and law.
There is also a distance learning option through our official partner Robert Kennedy College, Zurich, Switzerland.
You will:
- Develop the skills required for successful and agile project management
- Learn from academics, industry experts and practitioners
- Explore cutting edge research in areas such as benefits management
- Explore key areas such as Data Analytics and Management of Complexity
- Consider the impact of new technologies such as automation and AI
- Put your learning into practice through either a paid Industry Placement or the Industry Collaboration Project
Placement
options available
International
students accepted
This is for you if...
1.
You have a background in business or management
2.
You are looking to develop a career managing complex projects
3.
You are a critical thinker
4.
You are a good problem solver
5.
You want to improve your management and leadership skills
6.
You enjoy practical learning
All about the course
The programme is block delivered and there are several entry points throughout the year. You will study the modules below in a sequence dependent on your start date.
The course is delivered in four blocks of intensive study periods. For each block, you study a single module for a six-week period. Teaching is delivered for six hours each week (at present, this is made up of three hours face to face teaching + three hours online lectures). In addition, you will attend lectures to support you as you prepare for your Paid Industry Placement or Industry Collaboration Project (depending on which you choose). During this time, you will also undertake independent study in your own time with online support through the University of Salford’s virtual learning environment, Blackboard.
Part time students study alternate modules (one module on, one module off) to complete their degree in two years.
Work experience accounts for the final 60 credits of your degree. You can follow the Industry Collaboration Project (3-6 months) or the paid Industry Placement module (9-12 months). All placements are competitive and you can expect to apply for a number of jobs and be interviewed. You will need to meet the employer's entry criteria in order to be accepted on any placement route. However, we will support you through the process. You will be allocated a supervisor who will mentor you through the placement or project. You will also have the opportunity to engage with the Student Hub and askUK. askUK can help with pre project/placement support for students and opportunities for those going on placement to participate in training workshops to ensure best practice. The Student Hub can help you to look for placements, internships and live projects.
Interested in MSc Project Management with Industry Placement?
You should apply for - and will initially be registered onto - the MSc Project Management programme. On successful completion of the taught elements, you can choose the Industry Placement option and, if you are accepted on to this, your registration will then be transferred to the MSc Project Management with Industry Placement programme.
Download our course brochure.
Modules
You will learn about the approaches, skills and methods of effective project management, and the tools and techniques required for planning, control, teamwork, leadership and other key processes. You will develop knowledge and application of the techniques of estimating, forecasting and resource management.
All of these qualities will develop your ability to lead complex projects.
Teaching:
- Interactive lectures and seminars
- Small group learning sets will be used as the basis for problem-based learning scenarios designed to include case studies, class-based activities, research articles and web-based materials
- Guided personal study supported by associated reading list, lecture notes and relevant research articles
Assessments:
50% Individual assignment
50% Portfolio of business proposal, exhibition and business plan
Operations and Information Management
Through this module you will critically analyse the theory, concepts and models of operations and information management. You will consider different types of operations and how they contribute to a company’s competitiveness. You will look at how Management Information Systems (MIS) is used in planning, managing and improving operations.
Working in a global environment, you will consider how operations and information management are adapted to specific market cultures and customer requirements.
Teaching:
- Interactive lectures and seminars
- Group working on case study or article with group presentation of solutions
- Guided personal study supported by associated reading list, lecture notes and relevant research articles
Assessments:
50% Individual assignment
50% Portfolio of business proposal, exhibition and business plan
Procurement Risk and Contract Management
The module provides you with an overview of project risk and helps you develop the skills you need to effectively manage procurement processes in a multitude of environments.
You will consider current problems and, using the theory and practice of project risk and procurement management, learn to solve them by applying systematic analysis and a creative synthesis of ideas.
Teaching:
- Interactive lectures and seminars
- Group working on problem-based learning scenarios
- Guided personal study supported by associated reading list, lecture notes and relevant research articles
Assessments:
50% Individual assignment 1
50% Individual assignment 2
Advanced Project and Logistics Management
On this module, you will evaluate contemporary research in logistics and project management. In addition, you will put theoretical ideas into practice via real scenarios and live case studies.
You will analyse advances in 3P management (Project, Portfolio and Programme) and review world-class innovations in logistics.
Innovation is a major theme on this module. You will discuss the importance and review the effectiveness of emerging technologies and new ideas in logistics (such as Additive Manufacturing, Big Data Analytics and drones) and project management (such as Agile, Lean and Benefits Management).
You will be encouraged to draw upon and share your own cultural and managerial experiences while developing your skills as a reflective practitioner.
Teaching:
- Interactive lectures and seminars
- Group working on problem-based learning scenarios
- Guided personal study supported by associated reading list, lecture notes and relevant research articles
Assessments:
30% Portfolio presentation
70% Portfolio submission
Work experience: choose one of
Industry Placement
This is a paid industry placement and provides you with the opportunity to undertake 12-month employment with an organisation located regionally, nationally or internationally.
You will source your own placement; however, you will have lots of support from the University of Salford and the Business School employability-hub and from your current industry contacts. You will also benefit from preparatory lectures in study skills, action planning, consultancy and more.
As part of your placement, you will analyse a ‘live’ business opportunity. This will include critical reflection on opportunities that allow you to apply the theoretical skills you have learned on your programme to an existing business issue; along with how you will develop and use appropriate problem-solving skills in a real-world environment. You will work on an organisational issue, working with the client on a full-time basis.
You will be allocated an academic supervisor to support you throughout your placement, from preparing your proposal and applying for ethical approval in your data collection, to field work and supporting the delivery of your proposed outcomes.
For the final three months of this module, you will return to the University of Salford Business School to write up and finalise your dissertation ready for final submission.
The module will be assessed in the form of a 10,000-word dissertation that should demonstrate the work you have undertaken for your placement. Your dissertation will explain the deliverables created, the theories and concepts applied, the data gathering activities you have undertaken and the impact achieved. You will also include an appropriate level of critical reflection.
Assessment:
Dissertation – 10,000 words (100%)
Industry Collaboration Project
On the Industry Collaboration Project, you will enhance your professional experience, working with your own or another organisation on a live brief. You can choose from:
ICP work placement - a paid industry placement that provides you with the opportunity to undertake 6-month employment with an organisation located regionally, nationally, or internationally.
You will source your own placement; however, you will have lots of support from the University of Salford and the Business School employability-hub and from your current industry contacts. You will also benefit from preparatory lectures in study skills, action planning, consultancy and more.
As part of your placement, you will analyse a ‘live’ business opportunity. This will include critical reflection on opportunities that allow you to apply the theoretical skills you have learned on your programme to an existing business issue; along with how you will develop and use appropriate problem-solving skills in a real-world environment. You will work on an organisational issue, working with the client on a full-time basis.
You will be allocated an academic supervisor to support you throughout your placement, from preparing your proposal and applying for ethical approval in your data collection, to field work and supporting the delivery of your proposed outcomes.
The ICP work placement will be assessed in the form of a 10,000-word dissertation that should demonstrate the work you have undertaken for your placement. Your dissertation will explain the deliverables created, the theories and concepts applied, the data gathering activities you have undertaken and the impact achieved. You will also include an appropriate level of critical reflection.
Assessment: 10,000 word dissertation
ICP internship – a paid or unpaid internship that provides you with the opportunity to undertake 3-month internship with an organisation located regionally, nationally, or internationally.
You will source your own internship; however, you will have lots of support from the University of Salford and the Business School employability-hub and from your current industry contacts. You will also benefit from preparatory lectures in study skills, action planning, consultancy and more.
As part of your internship, you will analyse a ‘live’ business opportunity. This will include critical reflection on opportunities that allow you to apply the theoretical skills you have learned on your programme to an existing business issue; along with how you will develop and use appropriate problem-solving skills in a real-world environment. You will work alongside an organisation to identify and explore a real organisational issue up to 20 hours per week.
You will be allocated an academic supervisor to support you throughout your internship, from preparing your proposal and applying for ethical approval in your data collection, to field work and supporting the delivery of your proposed outcomes.
The ICP internship will be assessed in the form of a 10,000-word dissertation that should demonstrate the work you have undertaken for your internship. Your dissertation will explain the deliverables created, the theories and concepts applied, the data gathering activities you have undertaken and the impact achieved. You will also include an appropriate level of critical reflection.
Assessment: 10,000 word dissertation
ICP applied dissertation - a 3-month applied dissertation provides you with a unique opportunity to examine an issue important to you and this should fit in with your programme of study. This is an advanced-level applied research pathway that can be based on a real-world business problem and examining an issue important to an organisation. The Applied Dissertation route provides you with the opportunity to apply the theoretical and practical knowledge you have gained from the taught elements of your course to a current organisational issue. You will implement and effectively use appropriate problem-solving skills through critical self-reflection and methodical, systematic research. It is a very good option to choose if you are considering moving into academic research or PhD upon completion of your master’s programme.
You will be allocated an academic supervisor to support you throughout your Applied Dissertation, from preparing your proposal and applying for ethical approval in your data collection, to field work and supporting the delivery of your proposed outcomes.
The Applied Dissertation will be assessed in the form of a 10,000-word dissertation that should demonstrate the work you have undertaken. Your dissertation will explain the deliverables created, the theories and concepts applied, the data gathering activities you have undertaken and the impact achieved. You will also include an appropriate level of critical reflection.
Assessment: 10,000 word dissertation
ICP entrepreneurship - a 3-month entrepreneurship dissertation involves analysing business opportunities and writing a business plan including critical reflection on opportunities, challenges and strategies. This will lead you on to establish a new business or incorporate your entrepreneurial thinking into the management of existing organisations. You should demonstrate an understanding through the development of an enterprise idea in a specific sector or industry, together with evidence of critical and analytical evaluation. You may find the entrepreneurship dissertation both challenging and rewarding, as it is a practical module in an area which you should have an interest in.
You will be allocated an academic supervisor to support you throughout the entrepreneurship dissertation route. They will assist you in developing your skills and reasoning to support entrepreneurial action while working on the development of your own innovative business idea. In doing this, you will prepare a proposal, ethical considerations for your data collection and field work to support the development of your business plan.
The Entrepreneurship route will be assessed in the form of an 8,500-word dissertation that should demonstrate the work you have undertaken for your entrepreneurial business idea. Your dissertation will explain the deliverables created, the theories and concepts applied, the data gathering activities you have undertaken and the impact achieved. You will also include an appropriate level of critical reflection. Assessment:
Assessment: 8,500 word dissertation
Please note that it may not be possible to deliver the full list of options every year as this will depend on factors such as how many students choose a particular option. Exact modules may also vary in order to keep content current. When accepting your offer of a place to study on this programme, you should be aware that not all optional modules will be running each year. Your tutor will be able to advise you as to the available options on or before the start of the programme. Whilst the University tries to ensure that you are able to undertake your preferred options, it cannot guarantee this.
Why Choose Salford Business School?
Salford Business School aims to foster the next generation of leaders and create a new vision of innovative and entrepreneurial leadership. We are integrated into the local business community as a hub for knowledge creation and exchange.
This means that our teaching is highly practical and your learning is informed by our industry partners. Every postgraduate course includes a work placement or work experience project in the UK or internationally so you can put your learning into practice before you graduate. We are proud that our industry collaborations and partnerships benefit students, businesses and the community.
With multiple start points for our degrees, you can choose when to start your studies so that they fit with your life priorities. We want you to succeed in your studies and in your profession so we provide the support you need to achieve your aims.
Our goal is to prepare you for a fulfilling life and professional career. Along the way, you’ll learn to be curious, adaptable and confident, ready to meet the digital, ethical and sustainability challenges of the 21st century.
Is Business a Science or an Art?
At Salford Business School, our postgraduate degree award is the Masters of Science (MSc) to reflect our approach to business knowledge. We believe that business decisions should be data-driven and evidence-based – even when the outputs are innovative and creative.
Where will I learn
Salford Business School is located at the heart of the University’s Peel Park campus and just minutes from Manchester city centre. Teaching facilities include Lady Hale and Chapman buildings, which offer stylish modern spaces with lecture theatres equipped with the very latest technology and large screen displays. A dedicated Employability team will help you with work placements and access to work skills. Throughout campus, there is a choice of individual study areas, communal learning and breakout spaces, plus a selection of food outlets.
The University library isn’t just for reading books. The ‘library in the park’ is a fresh, modern learning space with PC suites, Mac computers, bookable working rooms and café. It's open 24/7 everyday of the year (except Christmas Day!) so you can study when it suits you. There's a wealth of support for you too, especially if it's been a while since you've studied and you want to brush up on your study skills. Find out how to make the best start on their website.
You will have access to a range of study skills sessions to help you get ready for postgraduate learning and be successful in your studies and in your work. These include academic writing, research and digital skills.
Interested in starting your own business? Launch@ Salford is the incubation centre for business start ups providing a reception area, hot desk office space, private meeting rooms – and a networking lounge where you can grab a coffee and make those business connections.
Programme leader
Dr Stelios Sapountzis
Stelios joined Salford Business School after an industrial career in manufacturing management that was followed by a research fellowship at the University of Salford.
He was a production manager for a world-class manufacturer, in the electronics manufacturing services (EMS) sector. His role involved managing turnkey projects being in direct involvement with clients, as well as ensuring production line orientation, design and assembly sequencing of operations. In his early industrial career he was a process engineer, focusing on production / process optimisation and new product introduction.
Stelios' research interests include benefits realisation in the management of projects; the applications of lean thinking; digital health and process optimisation in delivering healthcare infrastructures and services.
Learn more about Stelios on his staff profile or visit his LinkedIn page.
Getting here
University of Salford is easy to get to with Salford Crescent train station right in the centre of our main campus. Whether by bus, rail, bike, car or plane, Peel Park campus is easily accessed from all over Greater Manchester, Lancashire and beyond. For international students, Manchester airport is a short ride away and offers regular flights from London and many international airports.
Get more information about your options for commuting.
What about after uni?
With excellent job prospects for Project Management professional across the public, private and third-sector, this course will help you to develop the necessary skills and knowledge to enhance your existing career or change career path. Project management skills are a valued part of other business roles and are fully transferable from industry to industry both nationally and internationally. Current graduates work at British Aerospace, TATA, Jaguar Land Rover, Airbus, Brother International, Manchester Airport, and more.
This course also offers great opportunities if you are looking to develop a consultancy or business. You will gain a highly regarded formal qualification, as well as personal and organisational management skills that will enhance your career prospects.
Find out more about the future of work, jobs and skills in this report from the UK Commission for Employment and Skills
Career Links
The University of Salford grew out of the institutes of the late 19th century that provided a talented, technically proficient and professional workforce to support the UK’s rapidly growing industries. In the 21st century, this still holds strong. Whilst industry has changed significantly, the need for industry-focused education is equally relevant today.
We teach the skills that employers need and as a result, our graduates enjoy excellent international career prospects.
The curriculum across our postgraduate courses balances academic teaching and professional experience. Our industry partners give us their input into the curriculum so that the teaching reflects industry’s current and future needs and you develop the skills that employers want.
“The University of Salford MSc Project Management course provides a balanced blend of an academic learning experience alongside practical workshops based upon real life case studies. The collaboration between the University and industry not only reinforces what the students have learnt, but the workshops and case studies also gives them confidence as to how their newfound knowledge can be used and what to expect in real life situations; preparing them for their future careers.” Edward Stoddard, Commercial Manager, Kier Construction
Recent guest lecture and workshops include:
Risk Management in Construction Projects – by the Commercial Manager at KIER Construction
Agile Project Delivery – by Senior Agile Delivery Manager at Department for Work and Pensions
Digital trends in SCM, Logistics and Project delivery – by Global Head, Supply Chain IT at Jaguar Land Rover
The Industry Collaboration Project, which forms the final third of your study, is designed to give you real-world experience so you can apply the theory you have learned.
What you need to know
APPLICANT PROFILE
This course offers excellent scope for aspiring and existing project managers who want to improve their career development opportunities and employability. If you want to progress into a senior management position this course will offer you the chance to gain skills which are highly sought by employers across a wide variety of organisations.
The MSc is the only route available for international students. Find out more about the dedicated support for international applicants.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS
All of our courses are taught and assessed in English, so as an applicant you must meet our minimum English language entry requirements. If you are an international student and not from a majority English speaking country, you will need IELTS 6 with no element below 5.5.
We also accept a range of other English language qualifications. If you do not have the English language requirements, you could take our Pre-Sessional English course.
Standard entry requirements
Undergraduate degree
Normally a minimum 2:2 honours degree or equivalent .
A wide range of professional qualifications are also accepted either in partial or complete fulfilment of entry requirements.
Where a student has gained a recognised honours degree but does not meet the normal entry qualification requirement, they may still be considered for entry if they can demonstrate relevant work experience of a minimum two years duration post study and acceptable level of responsibility.
International Students
We accept qualifications from all around the world. Find your country to see a full list of entry requirements.
Alternative entry requirements
Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL)
We welcome applications from students who may not have formal/traditional entry criteria but who have relevant experience or the ability to pursue the course successfully.
The Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process could help you to make your work and life experience count. The APL process can be used for entry onto courses or to give you exemptions from parts of your course.
Two forms of APL may be used for entry: the Accreditation of Prior Certificated Learning (APCL) or the Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL).
How much?
| Type of study | Year | Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time home | 2022/23 | £8,280per year |
| Full-time international | 2022/23 | £15,300per year |
| Full-time home | 2023/24 | £8,550per year |
| Full-time international | 2023/24 | £15,750per year |
| Part-time | 2023/24 | £1,425 per 30 credit module |
Fees for PgDip (4 x 30 credit modules) and PgCert (2 x 30 credit modules) are based on the fee shown above for part-time per 30 credit module.
Additional costs
You should also consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits.
MSc Project Management with Industry Placement
All applicants
Admin fee for Industry Placement - £1,700. Remember, during the industry placement, you will earn a salary for the work you do.
International applicants only
If you are applying from overseas, and are accepted onto a placement, there will be additional costs associated with visa extensions for your work placement. These include:
- Extend your student visa fee (visit here and look for Fees. Note, this is additional to your original student visa fee)
- Tier 4 biometrics enrolment fee
- Immigration Health Surcharge fee for 12 months (visit here for information)
You can apply for your visa extension from the UK. You should do this three months before the placement is due to start, so that you have enough time for your visa to be processed. Find more information on our Immigration and Visa FAQ page here – read the section on extending your Tier 4 visa.
Scholarships for international students
If you are a high-achieving international student, you may be eligible for one of our scholarships. Explore our international scholarships.
All set? Let's apply
All students will register onto the MSc Project Management programme. If you choose to follow the Industry Placement option and are accepted on to this, your registration will be transferred to the MSc Project Management with Industry Placement programme.
Still have some questions? Contact us:
By email (UK applicants): enquiries@salford.ac.uk
By email (international applicants): international@salford.ac.uk
By phone: +44 (0) 161 295 4545