MSc Project Management

Program Overview

The MSc Project Management program at the University of Northampton equips students with comprehensive knowledge in project management, emphasizing holistic stakeholder approaches and ethical considerations. Designed for working professionals, the program offers a balance of theoretical understanding, practical skills, and professional qualifications, preparing graduates for a wide range of project management careers. The flexible course structure includes a non-placement route (1 year) and a placement route (2 years) with industry experience, enhancing employability and career prospects.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The MSc Project Management program at the University of Northampton is designed for individuals already working in the field or considering a career in project management. It welcomes applicants from diverse academic backgrounds and work experiences. The program aims to equip students with the core competencies needed to successfully manage projects, emphasizing a holistic, international, and ethical stakeholder approach.

Objectives:

• Develop a comprehensive understanding of project management principles and practices.
• Gain proficiency in using key tools and techniques for effective project management.
• Enhance critical thinking and research skills to address complex business challenges.
• Prepare students for professional project management qualifications (PRINCE2 Foundation, PRINCE2 Practitioner, and Agile Project Management Foundation).
• Foster the development of leadership and teamwork skills for managing high-performing project teams.
• Equip students with the knowledge and skills to navigate ethical and sustainability issues in project management.

Outline:

The MSc Project Management program is structured around a series of progressive modules, covering a range of topics from fundamentals to advanced concepts.

Course Schedule:

• Full-Time: 1 year (non-placement route) or 2 years (placement route)
• Placement Route: Includes a 12-month industry placement opportunity.

Modules:

Stage 1 (Non-Placement Route):

• Fundamentals of Project Management (20 Credits): This module introduces students to the theoretical practices, practical tools, and techniques of modern project management, equipping them to address contemporary challenges.
• Risk and Resilience in Holistic Value Chain Management (20 Credits): This module explores risk and resilience in the context of holistic supply chains, enabling students to understand managerial decisions and risk mitigation strategies.
• Finance and Procurement Management (20 Credits): This module examines finance and procurement governance in a business context, providing students with the knowledge and skills for financial and procurement planning.
• Critical Issues in Project Management (20 Credits): This module critically examines contemporary and emerging issues in project management, allowing students to evaluate related theories and techniques.
• Business Research Project (60 Credits): This module provides students with the opportunity to develop their research skills by completing an investigative research project, integrating their project management and specialist skills.
• Managing Project Teams (20 Credits): This module focuses on the management and leadership of high-performing project teams, examining the skills and competencies required to create effective project leaders.

Assessment:

The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods, including:

• Business reports
• Essays
• Research papers
• Oral presentations
• Practical work
• Examinations
• Case studies
• Context analysis
• Dissertation

Teaching:

• The program is taught by experienced academic staff with specialist knowledge in their respective fields.
• Teaching methods include lectures, workshops, and interactive discussions, emphasizing student participation.
• The program provides support for achieving professional body memberships and awards.

Careers:

• The MSc Project Management program prepares students for a wide range of project management careers across various industries, including:
• Gas
• Engineering
• Healthcare
• Events
• Public sector
• Logistics
• The program enhances students' critical thinking and research skills, making them competitive candidates in the job market.
• The optional placement year provides valuable real-world experience, further enhancing employability.

Other:

• The MSc Project Management program is part of the Enhanced Learning Credits Scheme (ELCS), offering financial support to members of the Armed Forces pursuing higher education.
• The program has Academic Accreditation from the Association of Project Management, recognizing its alignment with industry standards and providing students with free APM Student Membership.

2024/25 Tuition Fees Fees quoted relate to study in the Academic Year 2024/25 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years. UK: £8,250 International: £16,995 Year 2 Placement Fee: £1,000 (for placements starting in September 2025 or January 2026)

• The placement fee amount will only be charged to you after you secure a placement and are enrolled on the work based project in year 2 of your project management master’s course.