Corporate Governance and Ethics (MSc - MRes - Postgraduate Diploma)
ObjectivesCorporate governance and business ethics are areas of rapidly growing importance in which Birkbeck has a pre-eminent research position. The core modules of these programmes are concerned with the complex and changing relationships between business corporations, their various stakeholders, and the societies within which they operate. They are fully international in scope, covering European, American and Asian systems of corporate governance and adopting a cross-cultural perspective on contemporary issues of business ethics and society. A key feature of the practice of both corporate governance and business ethics is that it brings together both economic and moral considerations, and this is reflected in a strongly interdisciplinary approach. While the main focus of the programmes is on the social, political, legal and moral aspects of how businesses are governed, they are also concerned with issues of business performance and the operation of financial markets. The programmes are designed to provide a foundation both for those wishing to engage critically with the issues of business and society, and for those wishing to be involved professionally in the processes of corporate governance.
Entry requirementsEntry requirements Good honours degree or equivalent. Two references: either from an academic source and a past or present employer, or two from an academic source. Non-native speakers need to provide proof of English language ability.
Each programme combines taught core and option courses.
Core courses:
-International Business Ethics
-Systems of Corporate Governance
-Research Methods
-either Principles of Organization and Management, or International -Financial Systems, or Corporate Social Responsibility.
Option modules include (in total there are 30 modules):
-The Business Environment
-International Business Strategy
-E-commerce and E-business
-The Theory of Multinationals
-International Marketing.
As a student on one of the master’s programmes, you will also prepare a dissertation in the field of corporate governance or business ethics, broadly defined.
Teaching
Each core or option module is taught via lectures and seminars lasting one academic term (either autumn or spring). Revision sessions are also held in the summer term before the examination period. For students preparing a dissertation as part of the MSc or MRes, research supervision is also provided.
Assessment
Each core or option module is assessed via a final written examination in the summer term. In most cases, coursework is also assessed. The dissertation counts for one third of the MSc and 50 per cent of the MRes.
When to apply
-Early application recommended.
-Closing date: 10 September.