This module presents a fusion between the philosophies which underlie marketing, with a strong emphasis of integrating digital and traditional concepts and the real life application of marketing across a variety of sectoral contexts. You'll examine the core marketing concept of customer value and the interplay between marketing and sustainability and the ethical challenges and critiques of modern marketing. You'll gain a wide range of knowledge across a breadth of sectors and be able to adapt these to whatever career or future research you choose. On completion of the module you'll have not only a solid grounding in marketing philosophies and theories but also a critical view of marketing, based around the realisation of the reality of modern digital marketing operations and management in a context of increasing global economic challenges, but also within a context where the customer profile is shifting to become increasingly demanding, critical and questioning of the motivations and ethics behind the marketers activities.
View the full module definitionThis module equips you with essential business skills and knowledge to identify opportunities and develop and execute a successful product or service tailored to the uniquely challenging winter market. You’ll explore core business concepts, including value proposition development, market research, marketing strategies, and budgeting whilst working as part of a team and building skills in leadership and decision-making in a dynamic business environment. You’ll learn to conduct industry-specific research, understand customer needs, and devise marketing strategies that respond to seasonal demand. You’ll also develop SMART objectives and apply Effectuation Theory to guide decision-making in uncertain market conditions. Additionally, the module covers important aspects of business operations, such as event planning, regulations (e.g. for food products), and the ethical use of artificial intelligence (AI) in business contexts. Throughout the module, you’ll engage in team-building exercises, leadership development, and budget management while working collaboratively on your business plans. By the end of the course, you’ll be ready to apply these skills in a real-world scenario, culminating in a final winter market event where you’ll pitch your product or service to a public audience, integrating all aspects of your learning.
View the full module definitionThis module introduces you to foundational understanding of the financial environment and essential analytical skills required for business decision-making. It covers important parts of financial systems, trends in digital finance and FinTech, ethical principles, sustainability, and the role of financial markets. You'll learn to evaluate financial data using advanced analytical techniques, supported by practical applications such as ratio analysis, financial statement interpretation, and the use of Microsoft Excel. By engaging with this module, you'll gain an in-depth appreciation for the financial decision-making process, including investment appraisal, the time value of money, and the evaluation of financial data credibility. The module also emphasises the application of theoretical knowledge to real-life situations, helping you build valuable skills for careers in business, accounting, and finance.
View the full module definitionIn an increasingly interconnected and interdependent world, understanding the global business environment is paramount for future leaders, entrepreneurs, and policymakers. This module delves deep into the multifaceted dynamics that shape international business operations and markets. Spanning from global trade patterns and international market structures to the nuanced socio-cultural and political factors that influence cross-border transactions, this module provides you with a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities inherent in global commerce. Through a blend of theoretical frameworks and real-world case studies, you’ll gain insights into the external forces impacting multinational corporations, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) beyond their domestic markets. This module will introduce concepts, models and frameworks that can be applied to increase the probability of success for your own organisations and will equip you to develop your own plans within the overall business context. It also emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and problem-solving in the context of global business, equipping you with the skills required to analyse complex information and make strategic decisions.
View the full module definitionOrganisational behaviour is about learning how people behave in, and towards, organisations so as to better understand how to be a high performing employee. In this module you'll be introduced to a range of organisational behaviour issues that you may encounter in your career, from dealing with demotivation to building and participating in high performing, diverse teams. You'll be provided with evidence-informed analyses of the ways in which culture, leadership, power, and politics affect workers and workplaces to help you understand the human side of management, and diagnose problems affecting organisations both independently and as part of a group. Running through the module, also, is a key theme of how technology affects work and workers; we'll begin with the creation of Scientific Management and the growth of assembly lines that transformed skilled, independent humans into semi- and un-skilled workers, and consider whether there are any parallels with the growing interest in AI in the business world. Along the way you'll have the opportunity to tackle business issues using organisational behaviour-related theories, models, concepts and research evidence to build your human and social capitals, and critical analysis skills. At the module's core is the aim to inspire you to value and continuously use the best available management research and evidence to effectively manage and lead people, cultures, and organisations throughout your careers.
View the full module definitionEntering higher education is exciting; but it can also be a daunting experience. At ARU, we want all our students to make the most of the opportunities higher education provides, reach your potential, become lifelong learners and find fulfilling careers. However, we appreciate that the shift from secondary education, or a return to formal education is, in itself, quite a journey. This module is designed to ease that transition. You'll be enrolled on it as soon as you receive an offer from ARU so you can begin to learn about university life before your course starts. Through Into ARU, you'll explore a virtual land modelled around ARU values: Courage, Innovation, Community, Integrity, Responsibility, and Ambition. This innovative module is designed as a game, where you collect knowledge and complete mini tasks. You'll proceed at your own pace, though we you to have completed your Into ARU exploration by week 6. If for any reason you're unable to complete by that date, we'll signpost to existing services so that we can be confident that you are supported.
This comprehensive module on Inventory and Warehouse Management is designed to equip you with the essential knowledge and skills to effectively manage inventory and streamline warehouse operations. In today's dynamic business environment, efficient inventory management is a critical component for achieving operational excellence, customer satisfaction, and cost-effectiveness. This module covers the fundamentals of inventory management, including understanding the role of inventory in supply chain management, differentiating between various types of inventory ,and exploring inventory valuation methods and cost control strategies. You'll also learn about warehouse operations and layout design, focusing on designing and optimising warehouse layouts for maximum efficiency, implementing best practices for warehouse organisation and storage, and utilising technology and automation to enhance warehouse processes. The module delves into inventory planning and forecasting, teaching you how to develop effective inventory planning strategies, utilise forecasting techniques to anticipate demand, and balance service levels and costs through demand forecasting and safety stock management. We'll explore inventory control and ABC analysis, covering the implementation of inventory control policies and procedures, conducting ABC analysis for effective categorisation and prioritisation of inventory items, and exploring Just-In-Time (JIT) and Economic Order Quantity (EOQ) principles. The role of technology in inventory and warehouse management is emphasised, including leveraging modern technologies such as RFID, barcoding, and warehouse management systems (WMS), and integrating software solutions for real-time visibility and data-driven decision-making. Additionally, we'll address risk management and compliance, focusing on identifying and mitigating risks associated with inventory and warehouse operations, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and industry-specific requirements. This module is suitable for professionals involved in supply chain management, logistics, inventory control, and anyone seeking to enhance their understanding of efficient warehouse management practices. The course will be delivered through a combination of lectures, case studies, interactive discussions, and practical exercises to provide you with hands-on experience in implementing inventory and warehouse management concepts. By the end of the module, you'll be well-equipped to optimise inventory levels, improve warehouse efficiency, and contribute to overall supply chain effectiveness in the workplace.
View the full module definitionProject management is a key skill for any future professional. This module focuses on providing a sound basis for managing or working on projects. In essence, the concept of managing a project hinging on one quite basic principle, managing the triangle of: quality of the project outcomes, cost and time. The module covers: Project Management Body of Knowledge; the importance of stakeholder and risk management; scheduling and costing; monitoring and controlling techniques, time management and resource optimisation; improving the success of projects; and the principles of agile project management.
View the full module definitionSupply Chain Geography is an interdisciplinary module that delves into the critical intersection between geography and supply chain management. In this module, you’ll explore how geographical factors and spatial considerations profoundly impact supply chain strategies, operations, and decision-making processes. By understanding how the physical landscape and spatial relationships influence supply chain dynamics, you'll gain valuable insights to optimise logistics, enhance efficiency, and navigate the complexities of global supply chains.
View the full module definitionThe Business Statistics and Data module provides you with the essential knowledge and skills to harness the power of data analytics in making informed business decisions. In today's data-driven business environment, understanding statistical concepts and data analysis techniques is crucial for professionals across various domains. This module equips you with the fundamentals of business statistics and data analytics, enabling you to extract meaningful insights from data, identify trends, make data-driven decisions, and drive business performance and innovation. Through real-world case studies and interactive discussions, you’ll develop the skills to align supply chain objectives with overall business strategy, capitalise on market opportunities, and effectively respond to industry challenges.
View the full module definitionInternational Supply Chain Management is an in-depth and comprehensive module designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage complex and dynamic supply chains in a global context. You’ll explore the intricacies of supply chain operations, logistics, and strategic decision-making across international borders. In today's interconnected world, businesses face unique challenges in managing their supply chains efficiently and effectively. This module focuses on the key elements of international supply chain management, including sourcing, procurement, transportation, inventory management, and distribution, while considering the cultural, legal, and geopolitical factors that influence global trade. Full understanding of the importance of cultural intelligence becomes paramount when managing international supply chains. You’ll learn to navigate diverse cultural landscapes, fostering effective communication and collaboration across borders to build strong relationships with partners and stakeholders. Considering the reality of uncertainties in international operations, you’ll analyse various risks such as geopolitical, economic, and natural disasters and develop strategies to mitigate potential disruptions and create resilient supply chain systems.
View the full module definitionRuskin Modules are designed to prepare our students for a complex, challenging and changing future. These interdisciplinary modules provide the opportunity to further broaden your perspectives, develop your intellectual flexibility and creativity. You will work with others from different disciplines to enable you to reflect critically on the limitations of a single discipline to solve wider societal concerns. You will be supported to create meaningful connections across disciplines to apply new knowledge to tackle complex problems and key challenges. Ruskin Modules are designed to grow your confidence, seek and maximise opportunities to realise your potential to give you a distinctive edge and enhance your success in the workplace.
The S&OP Demand Management and Forecasting module has been thoughtfully crafted to provide you with a comprehensive set of knowledge and skills essential for managing demand and creating precise forecasts within the framework of Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP). This dynamic and engaging module encompasses various crucial aspects that will enable you to become proficient in demand management and forecasting, both of which are vital for achieving operational excellence and customer satisfaction within an organisation. You'll delve into the fundamental principles of demand management, gaining a profound understanding of the entire demand planning process. From demand data collection and analysis to developing demand segmentation strategies, you'll be equipped with the tools needed to assess and influence customer demand effectively. You'll gain valuable insights into interpreting market trends and customer behaviour, enabling you to adjust demand planning strategies accordingly. By staying attuned to market dynamics, organisations can proactively respond to changes, capitalise on emerging opportunities, and mitigate potential risks. We also highlight the significance of integrating demand management and forecasting within the broader S&OP framework. You'll explore the synergies between demand planning and supply chain management, driving cross-functional collaboration and fostering a unified approach to business planning. You'll also be equipped with the tools and techniques needed to analyse historical data, interpret demand patterns, and develop data-driven strategies. By making informed decisions based on robust data analysis, organisations can achieve improved accuracy in forecasting and demand planning.
View the full module definitionIn today's dynamic business landscape, operations management plays a crucial role in optimising processes and efficiently converting various inputs, such as raw materials, labour, and technology, into valuable goods and services. It is a fundamental discipline that enables organisations to achieve their strategic objectives and maintain a competitive edge. This module delves into the core concepts of operations management and explores how the blending of service and manufacturing principles can lead to more effective and agile business operations. To excel in operations management, managers need a comprehensive understanding of both qualitative and quantitative aspects. They must grasp the underlying principles, theories, and best practices that govern operations management to make informed decisions. This involves analysing factors such as customer needs, market trends, and employee capabilities to optimise processes and enhance the overall efficiency of operations. To provide a practical and real-world perspective, this module incorporates contemporary business examples, applications, and case studies. By examining how renowned organizations handle their operations, you’ll gain valuable insights into the challenges and solutions faced by operations managers in various industries. Furthermore, you'll explore the application of modern tools and technologies, such as data analytics, supply chain management software, and automation, in streamlining operations and achieving operational excellence. This hands-on approach ensures that you’re equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to tackle real-world operational challenges in your future career. This module provides a comprehensive exploration of operations management, bridging the gap between service and manufacturing philosophies. It equips managers with the necessary competencies to optimise processes, align operations with corporate strategies, and drive organisational success. By combining qualitative understanding, quantitative analysis, and real-world examples, the module empowers you to make informed decisions and adapt to the ever-changing demands of the business environment.
View the full module definitionThis comprehensive module aims to equip you with an in-depth understanding of the fundamental principles, effective strategies, and best practices involved in managing transportation and logistics operations within the dynamic modern business environment. Throughout the module, you’ll explore various critical aspects of transportation modes, supply chain logistics, and strategic decision-making processes that contribute to the optimisation of the movement of goods and materials from their point of origin to their final destination. You'll gain insights into the complexities of transportation systems, enabling you to devise efficient and sustainable solutions that foster cost-effective transport and logistics systems. In this module, you’ll have the opportunity to apply the acquired knowledge and concepts of transportation and logistics management to your chosen industries. By doing so, you’ll learn how to orchestrate the seamless flow of goods and materials throughout the entire supply chain, addressing key elements such as transportation modes, global transport management, fleet, carrier, and asset management, inventory management, reverse logistics, and distribution management. Ultimately, this holistic approach will contribute to maximising customer satisfaction and achieving total supply chain management (SCM) efficiency and optimisation. We'll emphasise field-specific concentrations, allowing you to delve deeper into specific areas of transportation and logistics management, providing you with specialised expertise and insights into practical and successful strategies employed in the industry. Additionally, you’ll gain a broader understanding of the far-reaching consequences of SCM on society, the environment, and the process of globalisation. By the end of this module, you’ll have developed a profound appreciation for the critical role that transportation and logistics management play in driving business success and be equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complexities of the supply chain, adeptly managing the flow of goods and materials while considering the broader implications on the global economy and the environment. As a result, you’ll be well-prepared to contribute effectively to the growth and sustainability of organisations operating in today's interconnected and competitive business landscape.
View the full module definitionThis module will provide you with the opportunity to examine a real-life, current business issue and undertake a theoretically-informed analysis, culminating in business recommendations and considering the practical implications for implementing these recommendations. Drawing on knowledge, skills and tools gained from across your programme of study, you'll undertake a secondary research project to critically assess a business issue and formulate recommendations for practice. You'll engage with relevant academic literature as well as practice-focussed sources to identify, examine, analyse, interpret and synthesise relevant data from multiple sources. This module enables the development of all graduate capitals by way of focussing upon a real life current business issue which promotes the development of human capital, social capital, cultural capital, personal identity, adaptability and the whole person. During the module you'll learn new knowledge (human capital) by gaining transferable skills such as critical thinking and problem solving during the investigation and analysis of the real life business issue and, by way of finding, using and managing high quality information for its application to professional practice. You'll develop social capital through the networks and social relations created, and with external business professionals. The module and assessment enables you to foster and improve cultural capital through communication processes with other students and business professionals and you'll develop your personal identity (third capital) by reflecting upon your experiences as you progress. The module provides you with the opportunity to adapt to challenges and pressures and understand the changing nature of professional practice, which will develop your adaptability (fourth capital). You'll enhance your whole person (fifth capital) by working effectively in various situations, making connections where necessary to complete work and be able to work with diverse sources of information for your own advantage, making you graduate ready for the working world.
View the full module definitionThis module offers you a comprehensive understanding of how supply chain processes are integrated into an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. In today's complex business environment, organisations rely on seamless coordination between supply chain functions to optimize efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance customer satisfaction. This module explores the key components of supply chain management, encompassing procurement, inventory management, production planning, logistics, and distribution, within the broader context of an integrated ERP system. By gaining an understanding of core ERP functionalities, you’ll acquire the practical knowledge and skills needed to align supply chain processes with business objectives, enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and elevate overall organisational performance. The module's emphasis on hands-on learning and real-world applications will empower you to make a tangible impact on supply chain management in the workplace. You'll also gain insights into how ERP systems enable better cost control through efficient procurement, inventory management, and resource optimisation. You'll gain an understanding of how accurate data and real-time cost analysis support financial decision-making and contribute to overall cost reduction.
View the full module definitionSustainability poses a considerable challenge to global supply chains, which are inherently complex and involve many partners. This module explores the concept of being sustainable in a supply chain context: both in internal processes and decisions, but also in the wider supply network considering the role of responsible procurement strategy. We'll explore the concept of triple bottom line, which considers the financial, social and environmental effects of business, before turning to how to manage the immediate and eventual environmental effects of products and processes associated with converting raw materials into final products. Therefore, we'll study lifecycle management and sustainable strategies and practices across core supply chain activities, including procurement; production; logistics; packaging; warehousing and distribution. Transportation/logistics is often seen one of the most significant factors in environmental sustainability. Hence, we'll evaluate transport mode, planning and routing processes in the supply chain context. We'll practically consider the effect of transport mode decisions on: cost; speed; convenience and environment. Organisations and supply chains must respond to the pressures for environmental sustainability as corporate social responsibility and legislation begin to take hold. We'll focus on how environmental impact will need to be monitored, as well as more proactive practices such as the recycling, reclamation, remanufacturing, and reverse logistics are being adopted. We'll explore closed loop supply chains and the associated activities of integrated waste management and reverse logistics. We'll also draw on the contextual issues, including regulatory and legal frameworks, European and Global UN agreements, which continue to exert increasing pressure on supply chains to manage and improve environment impact. We'll additionally consider the application of carbon management ideas. Overall, this module seeks to provide a contemporary view of sustainability and the future implications for managing supply chains.