Leading on Customer Operations - BSc (Hons)
2024/25 Part-time Undergraduate course
Award:
Bachelor of Science with Honours
Faculty:
Ulster University Business School
School:
The Business Institute
Campus:
Belfast campus
Start date:
September 2024
Overview
Unleash your leadership potential and develop sustainable business transformation through a human led, tech enabled and data driven approach.
Summary
A degree programme that specialises in leading operations equipping students with the skills and knowledge required in a rapidly changing business landscape. The programme emphasises the importance of designing operational processes with a human-centred approach, leveraging technology to drive efficiencies and using data to make informed decisions. Leading Customer Operations is a project and inquiry based programme that will enable you to develop an understanding of the principles and practices of management and leadership within the professional and shared services environment.
The underlying principle of the programme is to ensure a high quality academic curriculum and to future-proof and support the emerging future of work requirements.
We’d love to hear from you!
We know that choosing to study at university is a big decision, and you may not always be able to find the information you need online.
Please contact Ulster University with any queries or questions you might have about:
- Course specific information
- Fees and Finance
- Admissions
For any queries regarding getting help with your application, please select Admissions in the drop down below.
For queries related to course content, including modules and placements, please select Course specific information.
We look forward to hearing from you.
About this course
In this section
About
• Expertise from three key focus areas: human centred design, digital transformation and business insights
• A variety of topics including Customer Experience, Project Management, Personal Development, Leadership, Strategic Marketing, Finance, Digital Business and Technology
• How to effectively solve problems, lead people and leverage digital technologies
Attendance
The programme is delivered over an academic year part-time, through; lectures, seminars, workshops, lab time and independent study. This will vary per organisation and may be weekly day release or alternatively a hybrid model of face to face lectures, learning pathways, live online sessions and drop in clinics.
You will study alongside your current role and be released for the necessary teaching at Ulster University.
Start dates
- September 2024
Teaching, Learning and Assessment
• The main learning and teaching methods used on this programme are; lectures (including guest speakers), seminars, independent learning and research as well practical work-based projects.
• Assessment methods include professional reports, business simulation tasks and presentations.
We aim for an excellent student learning experience through inclusive, relevant modules and curricula. Excellence in learning at Ulster University will provide all students, whatever their background, with a high-quality, challenging and rewarding experience that fosters students’ ability to:
• demonstrate critical enquiry
• advance their career
• be confident in their entrepreneurial endeavour
• be resilient and responsive to change
• exhibit professionalism
• become global citizens that meaningfully contribute to professional communities and wider society
Assessment is designed to assess your achievement of the module’s stated learning outcomes. The precise assessment will depend on the module and may be subject to change from year to year for quality or enhancement reasons. You will be consulted about any significant changes. You can expect to receive timely feedback on all coursework assessment.
Teaching, learning and assessment
The content for each course is summarised on the relevant course page, along with an overview of the modules that make up the course.
Each course is approved by the University and meets the expectations of:
- the relevant generic national Qualification Descriptor
- the applicable Subject Benchmark Statement
- the requirements of any professional, regulatory, statutory and accrediting bodies.
Attendance and Independent Study
As part of your course induction, you will be provided with details of the organisation and management of the course, including attendance and assessment requirements - usually in the form of a timetable. For full-time courses, the precise timetable for each semester is not confirmed until close to the start date and may be subject to some change in the early weeks as all courses settle into their planned patterns. For part-time courses which require attendance on particular days and times, an expectation of the days and periods of attendance will be included in the letter of offer. A course handbook is also made available.
Courses comprise modules for which the notional effort involved is indicated by its credit rating. Each credit point represents 10 hours of student effort. Undergraduate courses typically contain 10, 20, or 40 credit modules (more usually 20) and postgraduate courses typically 15 or 30 credit modules.
The normal study load expectation for an undergraduate full-time course of study in the standard academic year is 120 credit points. This amounts to around 36-42 hours of expected teaching and learning per week, inclusive of attendance requirements for lectures, seminars, tutorials, practical work, fieldwork or other scheduled classes, private study, and assessment. Teaching and learning activities will be in-person and/or online depending on the nature of the course. Part-time study load is the same as full-time pro-rata, with each credit point representing 10 hours of student effort.
Postgraduate Master’s courses typically comprise 180 credits, taken in three semesters when studied full-time. A Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) comprises 60 credits and can usually be completed on a part-time basis in one year. A 120-credit Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) can usually be completed on a part-time basis in two years.
Class contact times vary by course and type of module. Typically, for a module predominantly delivered through lectures you can expect at least 3 contact hours per week (lectures/seminars/tutorials). Laboratory classes often require a greater intensity of attendance in blocks. Some modules may combine lecture and laboratory. The precise model will depend on the course you apply for and may be subject to change from year to year for quality or enhancement reasons. Prospective students will be consulted about any significant changes.
Assessment
Assessment methods vary and are defined explicitly in each module. Assessment can be a combination of examination and coursework but may also be only one of these methods. Assessment is designed to assess your achievement of the module’s stated learning outcomes. You can expect to receive timely feedback on all coursework assessments. This feedback may be issued individually and/or issued to the group and you will be encouraged to act on this feedback for your own development.
Coursework can take many forms, for example: essay, report, seminar paper, test, presentation, dissertation, design, artefacts, portfolio, journal, group work. The precise form and combination of assessment will depend on the course you apply for and the module. Details will be made available in advance through induction, the course handbook, the module specification, the assessment timetable and the assessment brief. The details are subject to change from year to year for quality or enhancement reasons. You will be consulted about any significant changes.
Normally, a module will have 4 learning outcomes, and no more than 2 items of assessment. An item of assessment can comprise more than one task. The notional workload and the equivalence across types of assessment is standardised. The module pass mark for undergraduate courses is 40%. The module pass mark for postgraduate courses is 50%.
Calculation of the Final Award
The class of Honours awarded in Bachelor’s degrees is usually determined by calculation of an aggregate mark based on performance across the modules at Levels 5 and 6, (which correspond to the second and third year of full-time attendance).
Level 6 modules contribute 70% of the aggregate mark and Level 5 contributes 30% to the calculation of the class of the award. Classification of integrated Master’s degrees with Honours include a Level 7 component. The calculation in this case is: 50% Level 7, 30% Level 6, 20% Level 5. At least half the Level 5 modules must be studied at the University for Level 5 to be included in the calculation of the class.
All other qualifications have an overall grade determined by results in modules from the final level of study. In Master’s degrees of more than 200 credit points the final 120 points usually determine the overall grading.
Figures correct for academic year 2022-2023.
Academic profile
The University employs over 1,000 suitably qualified and experienced academic staff - 60% have PhDs in their subject field and many have professional body recognition.
Courses are taught by staff who are Professors (19%), Readers, Senior Lecturers (22%) or Lecturers (57%).
We require most academic staff to be qualified to teach in higher education: 82% hold either Postgraduate Certificates in Higher Education Practice or higher. Most academic and learning support staff (85%) are recognised as fellows of the Higher Education Academy (HEA) by Advance HE - the university sector professional body for teaching and learning. Many academic and technical staff hold other professional body designations related to their subject or scholarly practice.
The profiles of many academic staff can be found on the University’s departmental websites and give a detailed insight into the range of staffing and expertise. The precise staffing for a course will depend on the department(s) involved and the availability and management of staff. This is subject to change annually and is confirmed in the timetable issued at the start of the course.
Occasionally, teaching may be supplemented by suitably qualified part-time staff (usually qualified researchers) and specialist guest lecturers. In these cases, all staff are inducted, mostly through our staff development programme ‘First Steps to Teaching’. In some cases, usually for provision in one of our out-centres, Recognised University Teachers are involved, supported by the University in suitable professional development for teaching.
Figures correct for academic year 2022-2023.
Belfast campus
Belfast Campus Location
The Belfast campus is situated in the artistic and cultural centre of the city, the Cathedral Quarter.
Accommodation
High quality apartment living in Belfast city centre adjacent to the university campus.
Find out more - information about accommodation
Student Wellbeing
At Student Wellbeing we provide many services to help students through their time at Ulster University.
Modules
Here is a guide to the subjects studied on this course.
Courses are continually reviewed to take advantage of new teaching approaches and developments in research, industry and the professions. Please be aware that modules may change for your year of entry. The exact modules available and their order may vary depending on course updates, staff availability, timetabling and student demand. Please contact the course team for the most up to date module list.
In this section
Year one
Project Management Fundamentals
Year: 1
Status: C
The aim of this module is to provide an understanding of the core elements of Project Management. It focuses on developing the practical and evaluative skills required to undertake inquiry-based learning while utilising project management tools. Subjects covered include the stages of project management and planning, report writing and presentation skills.
Personal Development and Team Dynamics
Year: 1
Status: C
The aim of this module is to provide the skills and capabilities required to undertake effective self-management and to understand team and organisational development and success. It focuses on developing personal and interpersonal skills and recognising team dynamics. Subjects covered include achieving objectives through self-management, team working, effective communication skills, assertiveness, problem solving and emotional intelligence.
The Sustainable Business Services Environment
Year: 1
Status: C
This aim of this module is to provide the skills and capabilities required to understand the external and internal sustainable business environment and how these affect the principles and practices of operational management. It focuses on developing the practical and evaluative skills required to identify a variety of concepts, methods and theories within education for sustainable development (ESD).
Customer and Stakeholder Relations
Year: 1
Status: C
The aim of this module is to understand and apply the principles and practices of effective customer and stakeholder relationship management. It considers the client relationship management process, including dealing with customer complaints. The module aims to develop the knowledge and skills required to identify, analyse and manage stakeholders.
Introduction to Customer Experience
Year: 1
Status: C
The aim of this module is to provide an understanding of the key principles of CX and how customers interact with a brand across a variety of channels, delivering brand promise and increasing customer satisfaction and loyalty. It focuses on developing the practical skills required to deliver a responsive and superior CX, the interpretation of customer insight and the analysis of data to determine and drive measurable outcomes.
Digital Business and Technology
Year: 1
Status: C
The aim of this module is to provide an understanding of the evolving range of technology available within the business sector and how it is used to engage with customers. It focuses on developing an understanding of the role of technology, how individual systems and hardware interact with each other and the balance between cost and efficiency. Subjects covered include understanding the true value of technology, an introduction to concepts of business case creation and 'return on investment' from new digital business initiatives.
Year two
The CX Professional
Year: 2
Status: C
The aim of this module is to provide the knowledge and skills required to provide an effective CX to proactively respond to the changing demands in consumer expectations. It focuses on developing practical and evaluative methods required to promote professional and organisational performance that results in measurable CX outcomes.
The Data Driven Workplace
Year: 2
Status: C
The aim of this module is to provide the knowledge and skills to understand the application of data in organisations, and to start the process of building capability in designing, structuring, and analysing data. It focuses on developing understanding in the impact of accurate forecasting to enhance operational efficiency, improve customer experiences, and develop an awareness of sophisticated uses of big data and analytics to propel advances that can create sustainable changes.
Business Research
Year: 2
Status: C
Research is imperative for organisational development and informed business decision making. The aim of this module is to facilitate an understanding of the main concepts and principles of research in a business and organisational context. The module develops the student's understanding of how to source, interpret and analyse business information and data. It considers how the information is reported and utilised for the purposes of business or organisational development.
Managing and Developing People
Year: 2
Status: C
The aim of this module is to provide the knowledge and skills required to effectively manage employees in an increasingly mobile workforce, empower and develop employee self-awareness while analysing organisational performance. It focuses on evaluating employee needs and developing practical, empowering and motivational managerial and leadership skills to improve performance.
Intrapreneurship and Business Innovation
Year: 2
Status: C
Intrapreneurship and innovation are critical competencies for organisations seeking to improve and sustain their business in a highly competitive environment. This module develops students as leaders of change and prepares them for subsequent leadership and business project modules.
Responsible and Ethical Business Practice
Year: 2
Status: C
This aim of this module is to provide the skills and capabilities required to demonstrate an awareness of effective operational management in implementing sustainable change and delivering sustainable outcomes. It will focus on developing practical skills to implement various concepts, methods and theories within operational and marketing management.
Year three
Strategic Marketing
Year: 3
Status: C
The aim of this module is to provide the skills and capabilities required to undertake and analyse marketing research and associated research methods in enabling marketers to generate cohesive information. It focuses on developing and identifying the components and requirements of successfully conducting marketing research, giving managers the right information in the right form to make informed marketing decisions. Subjects covered include: marketing research; the marketing environment; consumer behaviour; branding; marketing planning, and marketing communication.
Contemporary Leadership
Year: 3
Status: C
The aim of the module is to provide the skills and capabilities to critically evaluate the role of leadership in today's changing and challenging business environment. It focuses on developing the practical and evaluative skills required for specific leadership styles, traits and characteristics needed to perform effectively within an organisation. Subjects covered include assessing leadership styles, considering the impact of emotional intelligence and leading authentically for effective team working and organisational effectiveness.
Business Finance
Year: 3
Status: C
The aim of this module is to provide a critical understanding of the key financial concepts required in a management role. It focuses on developing an understanding of interpreting financial business concepts, statements. The module will provide a critical understanding of the cost management process and managing working capital. Subjects covered include approaches to procurement, contracting and legal requirements.
Business Project
Year: 3
Status: C
This module will serve as an integrating mechanism for all other modules on the degree programme, as well as developing powers of analysis and evaluation and project management skills. Through this module, students will also develop knowledge and skills in research methods and techniques in preparation for completion of their applied business management project which will add real value to their host organisation.
Developing Professional Practice
Year: 3
Status: C
This aim of this module is to provide the skills and capabilities required to reflect and critically analyse programme and work-based learning in order to plan and execute Continuous Professional Development by considering the main areas of personal effectiveness, interpersonal excellence and business performance. It focuses on developing the practical, evaluative and analytical skills required to influence and develop the necessary personal and professional traits to thrive and survive in a VUCA world environment.
Standard entry conditions
We recognise a range of qualifications for admission to our courses. In addition to the specific entry conditions for this course you must also meet the University’s General Entrance Requirements.
In this section
A level
The A Level requirement for this course is 2 A levels Grade A-E
GCSE
GCSE Profile to include 3 Grade A-C
English Language Requirements
English language requirements for international applicants
The minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5. Trinity ISE: Pass at level III also meets this requirement for Tier 4 visa purposes.
Ulster recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.
Additional Entry Requirements
Entry requirements for the course will depend on what company you are doing the Higher Level Apprenticeship with.
To be eligible you must:
• Have been newly employed by your company within 6 months or started a new role within your company in the last 6 months.
• Be ordinarily resident in Northern Ireland for at least three years.
The General Entrance Requirements below identify the minimum qualifications needed for application to a course at Ulster University.
1. Provide evidence of competence in written and spoken English (GCSE English Language grades A-C/ 4-9 or equivalent); and
2. Provide evidence of passes in five subjects, two of which must be at A level (grades A-E) and three at GCSE level* (grades A-C/4-9);
3. Provide evidence of passes in four subjects, three of which must be at A level (grades A-E) and one at GCSE level* (grades A- C/4-9); or
4. Provide evidence of an approved qualification at an equivalent level such as a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma or Access to Higher Education qualification or equivalent**; or
5. Provide evidence, for a process of formal accreditation by the University, of learning you have gained through work or other experience.
* GCSE English Language (grades A-C/4-9) may be used as part of the GCSE requirement
If you don’t have the necessary qualifications but can show you have the relevant experience or other certified learning, then Ulster University may give credit for learning achieved by an individual before entry to a programme of study. This process is called Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL).
Careers & opportunities
In this section
Career options
The BSc Leading on Customer Operations has been designed to help individuals progress their career to management and leadership roles within the professional and shared services environment.
Graduates of the programmes have worked in advisory, management and leadership roles for many private and public sector organisations including Danske Bank, ATOS, Capita, Lego, EE, Almac, Bank of Ireland, Allen & Overy and PwC.
There is a significant demand for graduates with knowledge in human led, tech enabled and data driven disciplines. The integration of commercially relevant assessment and applied research projects will equip you with a range of vital future of work skills such as problem solving, leadership and sustainability.
Apply
Start dates
- September 2024
Fees and funding
2024/25 Fees
Fees for entry in 2024/25 have not yet been set. See our tuition fees page for the current fees for 2023/24 entry.
Module Pricing
The price of your overall programme will be determined by the number of credit points that you initiate in the relevant academic year.
For modules commenced in the academic year 2023/24, the following fees apply:
| Credit Points | NI/ROI Cost | GB Cost | International Cost* |
|---|---|---|---|
| 120 | £4,710 | £9,249.60 | £15,840 |
| 60 | £2,355 | £4,624.80 | £7,920 |
| 30 | £1,177.50 | £2,312.40 | £3,960 |
| 20 | £785 | £1,541.60 | £2,640 |
NB: A standard full-time undergraduate degree is equivalent to 120 credit points per year.
*Please note our on campus part-time postgraduate courses are not open to international (non-EU) students.
Additional mandatory costs
It is important to remember that costs associated with accommodation, travel (including car parking charges) and normal living will need to be covered in addition to tuition fees.
Where a course has additional mandatory expenses (in addition to tuition fees) we make every effort to highlight them above. We aim to provide students with the learning materials needed to support their studies. Our libraries are a valuable resource with an extensive collection of books and journals, as well as first-class facilities and IT equipment. Computer suites and free Wi-Fi are also available on each of the campuses.
There are additional fees for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines.
Students choosing a period of paid work placement or study abroad as a part of their course should be aware that there may be additional travel and living costs, as well as tuition fees.
See the tuition fees on our student guide for most up to date costs.
Contact
We’d love to hear from you!
We know that choosing to study at university is a big decision, and you may not always be able to find the information you need online.
Please contact Ulster University with any queries or questions you might have about:
- Course specific information
- Fees and Finance
- Admissions
For any queries regarding getting help with your application, please select Admissions in the drop down below.
For queries related to course content, including modules and placements, please select Course specific information.
We look forward to hearing from you.
For more information visit
Disclaimer
- Although reasonable steps are taken to provide the programmes and services described, the University cannot guarantee the provision of any course or facility and the University may make variations to the contents or methods of delivery of courses, discontinue, merge or combine courses and introduce new courses if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary by the University. Such circumstances include (but are not limited to) industrial action, lack of demand, departure of key staff, changes in legislation or government policy including changes, if any, resulting from the UK departing the European Union, withdrawal or reduction of funding or other circumstances beyond the University’s reasonable control.
- If the University discontinues any courses, it will use its best endeavours to provide a suitable alternative course. In addition, courses may change during the course of study and in such circumstances the University will normally undertake a consultation process prior to any such changes being introduced and seek to ensure that no student is unreasonably prejudiced as a consequence of any such change.
- The University does not accept responsibility (other than through the negligence of the University, its staff or agents), for the consequences of any modification or cancellation of any course, or part of a course, offered by the University but will take into consideration the effects on individual students and seek to minimise the impact of such effects where reasonably practicable.
- The University cannot accept any liability for disruption to its provision of educational or other services caused by circumstances beyond its control, but the University will take all reasonable steps to minimise the resultant disruption to such services.