Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership (Level 8)

This suite of Qualifications provides a realistic and broad opportunity for Learners
seeking career and professional development. They will support Learners in realising
their potential and by association the prospects of the organisations they work with or
for.

The objectives of this suite of Qualifications is to:

• provide career path support to Learners who wish to develop their management, enterprise capabilities and opportunities in their chosen sector;
• improve understanding of the business environment, organisations and how they are managed and developed; and
• develop skills and abilities in Learners to support their professional development.

The suite of Qualifications provides a rich mix of disciplines and skills development
opportunities. Learners will gain insight into the functioning, objectives and processes
of organisations, appreciating their diversity and the influences and impact of
external forces on them. The fast changing and complex business environment and
different organisation’s ability to stay resilient and respond positively to change and
opportunities will be explored.
Management of a range of business operations and functions, the management of
specific challenges for organisations will introduce Learners to management theory,
practice and models that will provide valuable knowledge and know-how.
The issues and concepts dealt with as part of this suite of Qualifications are best
explored through exposure to organisations, for any full time Learners work
placements are encouraged so that genuine experience and insight can be gained.
Problem solving and creativity are attributes encouraged and developed in Learners
through all the Units.

The Qualifications will develop the Learner’s ability to:

• apply analytical and evaluative techniques and to enhance those skills;
• investigate issues and opportunities;
• develop their awareness and appreciation of managerial, organisational and environmental issues;
• use management techniques and practices in imaginative ways;
• make use of relevant information from different sources;
• develop and encourage problem solving and creativity to tackle problems and challenges;
• exercise judgement, own and take responsibility for decisions and actions; and
• develop the ability to recognise and reflect on personal learning and improve their personal, social and other transferable skills.

Course content

The overall structure of the course is based on 8 modules that cover a number of
topics relating to learning outcomes. All modules are mandatory. Each unit has the
equivalency of 15 credits. Learners will be invited to attend lectures and workshops
that will introduce the subject matter. Learners must complete all units successfully
and achieve 120 credits before the Diploma can be issued.
Formative assessments (weighted at 0%) may be used in lectures or tutorials to check
knowledge and understanding of specific topics and subject areas.
Units require reflective exam sets and/or summative assessments for marking.
The Level 8 Diploma focuses upon developing understanding, skills and abilities to
equip the Learner with the awareness and aptitudes to be an effective strategic
manager and leader.

Learners must complete the 8 Mandatory Units to achieve the Diploma.

Mandatory Units

• Leadership Qualities and Practice: 150 TQT
• Personal Leadership Development as a Strategic Manager: 150 TQT
• Strategy Development in Cross Border and Global Organisations: 150 TQT
• Strategic Planning in Cross Border and Global Organisations: 150 TQT
• Strategic Direction in Cross Border and Global Organisations: 150 TQT
• Strategic Communication: 150 TQT
• Culture and its Impact on Strategy: 150 TQT
• Research Methods: 150 TQT

This Level 8 Diploma is designed for developing and implementing effective strategies
across ambitious growing organisations. Strategic management is for Executive
Directors and Senior Managers and for those who have the authority and personal
inspiration to translate organisational strategy into effective corporate performance.
The Diploma requires aspiring or current directors and senior managers to build a
knowledge and understanding in strategic direction and leadership and to focus
growth and performance across all levels of an organisation; making it competitive
and responsive to acquiring tomorrow’s business.

The Diploma is accredited at the post graduate Level 8.

The candidates will be expected to hold one of the following:

• Level 7 Qualification or;
• Master’s Degree or;
• Five years work experience in a Managerial position.

Learners completing the Level 8 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership will allow progress to:

• MPhil/PhD; or
• Directly into employment in an associated profession.