Programme Specification for the 2025/6 academic year

BSc (Hons) Project Management (Integrated Degree Apprenticeship)

1. Programme Details

Programme name	BSc (Hons) Project Management (Integrated Degree Apprenticeship)	Programme code	UDS4SBESBE10
Study mode(s)	Distance Learning	Academic year	2025/6
Campus(es)	Streatham (Exeter)	NQF Level of the Final Award	6 (Honours)

2. Description of the Programme

This programme has been designed to meet the requirements of the Institute for Apprenticeship and Technical Education’s (IFATE) Project Manager (Integrated Degree) Apprenticeship Standard. Developed with our industry partners to blend academic and professional practice in its curriculum design. The programme combines the academic rigour of Exeter’s long tradition of teaching excellence into a blended learning format with applied learning elements embedded throughout each stage of the programme.

The Project Management Integrated Degree Apprenticeship is suitable for current or aspiring project managers wishing to develop their knowledge, skills and behaviours, enabling them to drive performance and productivity improvements in your organisation.

Through this programme you will use principles of problem-based and inquiry-led learning to demonstrate effectiveness in applying project management knowledge and developing relevant skills and behaviours.

Each stage of study is structured to incorporate masterclasses, online learning, academic coaching and workplace mentoring. Assessment is ongoing and is relevant to the work tasks of students, measuring the higher-level thinking skills demonstrated in a variety of problem-based assignments. Throughout the programme of study you will collate an evidence portfolio demonstrating your application and competency of managing projects.

As part of the Project Management Apprenticeship you will have the opportunity to complete an International Project Management Association (IPMA) Level D qualification or equivalent. On successful completion you will also be eligible to become a full member of the Association for Project Management (APM) the Chartered Body for the Project Profession.

The final element of this programme the synoptic End-point Assessment (EPA). This is an impartial assessment of whether you have developed the skills, knowledge and behaviours outlined in the apprenticeship standard. The EPA consists of a work based project report with associated documentation and a professional review based on the evidence portfolio

3. Educational Aims of the Programme

This programme is designed to increase access and widen participation into higher education through a programme which uses blended learning and blended assessment. We acknowledge that participants are employed and have consciously chosen to ‘earn whilst they learn’ (QAA, 2004) and as such this programme has been designed to recognise the knowledge, skills and understanding that an applicant has already developed in their current job role.

The programme is designed around the assumption that the most authentic and powerful pedagogy is one that focuses on the identification, analysis and resolution of immediate problems in the learners’ world, and so links learning directly to project management.

Project managers are responsible to the project sponsor/owner for the end-to-end delivery of a project or a subset of a project dependent on the complexity and criticality to the business. They have responsibility for delivering in line with defined objectives, taking decisions to manage stakeholder expectations by leading a multi-skilled, cross-disciplinary team to deliver the project to time, cost and quality requirements. Using their unique knowledge, skills and leadership behaviours project managers will manage the social, legal and environmental implications of their project. In addition, they will manage a variety of interfaces with the organisational entities involved in the project, reporting to the project sponsor and working within the requirements of the programme and portfolio as appropriate. A project manager must also have the competencies to contribute to benefits management and realisation, consolidating appropriate metrics to report thus ensuring that identified business benefits are achieved.

To achieve these objectives, projects managers will apply appropriate governance and project management methods and techniques to initiate and execute projects, interfacing with other projects within larger project programmes to meet the strategic objectives of the organisation. They will have an appreciation of programme management techniques and an understanding of how projects are managed within a larger programme.
These skills and behaviours require the project manager to be an effective leader of change, able to develop a group of direct, sub-contract, or temporarily aligned resources into a coherent team that delivers the project objectives. They will have management responsibilities, including resource budget planning, and may also hold people development accountabilities. They will have an understanding of the diversity of roles and challenges facing project professionals and an appreciation of tailoring needs, recognising the different contexts and technical requirements that exist in different industry sectors and/or organisation sizes.

4. Programme Structure

The BSc (hons) Project management (IDA) is a 3 year Integrated Degree Apprenticeship programme of study at Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) level 6 (as confirmed against the FHEQ). This programme is divided into 4 stages. Each stage is normally equivalent to an academic year.

The Project Management Integrated Degree Apprenticeship is designed to cover the Knowledge Skills and Behaviours identified in the IfATE apprenticeship standard and provide an opportunity to complete an International Project Management Association (IPMA) Level D qualification or equivalent..

Assessment:

There are a range of assessments within this programme which seek to draw on both the experiences of the participant in the workplace, and enable them to demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and behaviours acquired through the formal programme of study. The programme utilises both 'assessment for learning' (formative) and 'assessment of learning' (summative) assignments throughout. Each module includes distinct elements of formative assessment which assist in the preparation of summative assignments.

Each module has at least two summative assessment methods: one of these will be a measure of knowledge and academic skills (including presentations, reflective essays, position papers, problem-based essays and examinations) and the other a practice based measure of understanding (including projects, proposals, evaluations, and/or reports. Mark ranges, standard to modules at undergraduate level are applied within the assessment process.

Interim / Exit Awards

http://as.exeter.ac.uk/academic-policy-standards/tqa-manual/pma/introduction/#exit-interim

5. Programme Modules

The following tables describe the programme and constituent modules. Constituent modules may be updated, deleted or replaced as a consequence of the annual programme review of this programme.

Stage 1

120 credits of compulsory modules

Compulsory Modules

Code	Module	Credits	Non-condonable?
BEM1035DA	Introduction to Project Management	30	Yes
BEM1036DA	The Business Environment and Organisational Strategy	30	No
BEM1037DA	Governance and Financial Controls of Projects	30	No
BEM1038DA	Professional Practice	30	Yes
BEM2050DA	Project Justification and Change Control	30	No

Stage 2

120 credits of compulsory modules

Compulsory Modules

Code	Module	Credits	Non-condonable?
BEM2051DA	Stakeholder Engagement and Communication Management	30	No
BEM2052DA	Organisational Change Management	30	No
BEM2053DA	Quality and Risk Management	30	No
BEM3074DA	International Project Management (IPMA)	30	Yes

Stage 3

90 credits of compulsory modules

Compulsory Modules

Code	Module	Credits	Non-condonable?
BEM3073DA	Commercial Procurement and Contract Management	30	No
BEM3078DA	Applied Project Management	20	Yes
BEM3076DA	Work-Based Project	20	Yes
BEM3077DA	Professional Review	20	Yes

Stage 4

40 credits of compulsory modules

Please note that the Professional Review for End Point Assessment as referenced in Stage 3 above will continue over the end of academic year into Stage 4.

6. Programme Outcomes Linked to Teaching, Learning and Assessment Methods

Intended Learning Outcomes
A: Specialised Subject Skills and Knowledge

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) On successfully completing this programme you will be able to:	Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be...
...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class):	...and evidenced by the following assessment methods:
1. Explain effective management of project budgets and costs within appropriate financial frameworks and how to report project performance, tailoring reporting requirements to comply with governance norms in the business. 2. Evaluate and establish appropriate project governance through the incorporate of policies, regulations, processes, roles and structures in different project types and organisational structures, demonstrating that acceptance of different sizes of organisation requires different levels of control. 3. Evaluate how to interpret organisational and programme aims and objectives to develop robust business plans and the requirement to revisit such plans at key stages of a project to ensure ongoing viability of the business case. 4. Evaluation and identification of realistic benefits, both tangible and intangible, and an appreciation of how these might be delivered. 5. Define and describe the application of the concepts of project change control. 6. Define and use appropriate processes and tools to manage scope, requirements, benefits and success factors of a project. 7. Analyse how to communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders to build and maintain their support for successful project outcomes. 8. Evaluate the dynamics of stakeholder relationships and needs during the project and develop appropriate and pro-active project communication plans to ensure that all of the multi-skilled, cross-disciplinary stakeholders are aligned. 9. Analyse how to work with the project sponsor and within a programme to prepare organisations, teams and individuals for organisational change including consideration of the current state, preparation of an envisaged future state and plans for progressing from one to the other. 10. Explain how to apply quality management frameworks and monitor their impact in a project environment. 11. Evaluate how to apply methodologies for risk evaluation and management. 12. Explain how to prepare and maintain resourced project schedules and how to use these for project monitoring, control and delivery. 13. Evaluate requirements and methods for data capture and analysis in a project environment. 14. Apply resource acquisition and management techniques to balance programme and project needs against resource demand.	Teaching is centred on problem-based and inquiry-led learning. There are three main components to the teaching methods: 1. Seminars These sessions contain three elements: • Peer-led enquiry groups • Taught Masterclasses • Academic study skills 2. Online learning platform All modules are delivered in a blended format; day or residential masterclass are supported by significant online resources. Each student has the benefit of both a module lead (subject specialist) and an academic mentor, with whom they can develop their study skills, critical thinking skills, application of new knowledge, evaluate own progress and plan own development. 3. E-Portfolio This portfolio is built up over the academic year and is submitted at the end of each stage of study. It contains elements which capture the student’s engagement with learning and reflections upon skills and behavioural development. E-Portfolio constitutes of the following: • Student journal – reflective learning on their development, review the impact of their activities and behaviours on the business and the team • Work based evidence – written work, small projects, performance review information, workplace observations, case studies, learning record entries, development plan content, emails, customer comments Learning is enhanced through a teaching/ learning philosophy which partners with employer to blend academic and professional practice.	There will be a range of regular formative assessment which seeks to build the skills and confidence of learners whilst keeping them engaged with the programme. Summative assessment will include, but is not limited to: closed-book examinations, applied exercise, case studies, presentations, portfolios, reflective essays, position papers, business improvement projects, proposals, problem-based essays, book and article reviews, visual images, videos, infographics, academic essays, reports and peer assessment. Where elements of the integrated modules have not been completed or passed successfully, learners will be asked to retake the assessment component or complete a modified assignment tailored to specifically measure the relevant ILO/s.

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)
On successfully completing this programme you will be able to:

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be...

...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class):

...and evidenced by the following assessment methods:

1. Explain effective management of project budgets and costs within appropriate financial frameworks and how to report project performance, tailoring reporting requirements to comply with governance norms in the business.
2. Evaluate and establish appropriate project governance through the incorporate of policies, regulations, processes, roles and structures in different project types and organisational structures, demonstrating that acceptance of different sizes of organisation requires different levels of control.
3. Evaluate how to interpret organisational and programme aims and objectives to develop robust business plans and the requirement to revisit such plans at key stages of a project to ensure ongoing viability of the business case.
4. Evaluation and identification of realistic benefits, both tangible and intangible, and an appreciation of how these might be delivered.
5. Define and describe the application of the concepts of project change control.
6. Define and use appropriate processes and tools to manage scope, requirements, benefits and success factors of a project.
7. Analyse how to communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders to build and maintain their support for successful project outcomes.
8. Evaluate the dynamics of stakeholder relationships and needs during the project and develop appropriate and pro-active project communication plans to ensure that all of the multi-skilled, cross-disciplinary stakeholders are aligned.
9. Analyse how to work with the project sponsor and within a programme to prepare organisations, teams and individuals for organisational change including consideration of the current state, preparation of an envisaged future state and plans for progressing from one to the other.
10. Explain how to apply quality management frameworks and monitor their impact in a project environment.
11. Evaluate how to apply methodologies for risk evaluation and management.
12. Explain how to prepare and maintain resourced project schedules and how to use these for project monitoring, control and delivery.
13. Evaluate requirements and methods for data capture and analysis in a project environment.
14. Apply resource acquisition and management techniques to balance programme and project needs against resource demand.

Teaching is centred on problem-based and inquiry-led learning. There are three main components to the teaching methods:
1. Seminars
These sessions contain three elements:
• Peer-led enquiry groups
• Taught Masterclasses
• Academic study skills
2. Online learning platform
All modules are delivered in a blended format; day or residential masterclass are supported by significant online resources. Each student has the benefit of both a module lead (subject specialist) and an academic mentor, with whom they can develop their study skills, critical thinking skills, application of new knowledge, evaluate own progress and plan own development.

3. E-Portfolio
This portfolio is built up over the academic year and is submitted at the end of each stage of study. It contains elements which capture the student’s engagement with learning and reflections upon skills and behavioural development.
E-Portfolio constitutes of the following:
• Student journal – reflective learning on their development, review the impact of their activities and behaviours on the business and the team
• Work based evidence – written work, small projects, performance review information, workplace observations, case studies, learning record entries, development plan content, emails, customer comments

Learning is enhanced through a teaching/ learning philosophy which partners with employer to blend academic and professional practice.

There will be a range of regular formative assessment which seeks to build the skills and confidence of learners whilst keeping them engaged with the programme. Summative assessment will include, but is not limited to: closed-book examinations, applied exercise, case studies, presentations, portfolios, reflective essays, position papers, business improvement projects, proposals, problem-based essays, book and article reviews, visual images, videos, infographics, academic essays, reports and peer assessment. Where elements of the integrated modules have not been completed or passed successfully, learners will be asked to retake the assessment component or complete a modified assignment tailored to specifically measure the relevant ILO/s.

Intended Learning Outcomes
B: Academic Discipline Core Skills and Knowledge

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) On successfully completing this programme you will be able to:	Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be...
	...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class):	...and evidenced by the following assessment methods:
15. Demonstrate leadership and taking responsibility for the project management plan as required by the governance structure. 16. Apply techniques and project management methodologies as appropriate, dependent upon project complexity and criticality to the organisational environment in which a project is being delivered. 17. Demonstrate how to maintain, review and communicate a project business case for approval through the stages of a typical project lifecycle ensuring continued value for money and continued alignment with organisational objectives 18. Evaluate the dependencies related to the size and complexity of projects, define and apply a recognised process to manage change in projects accordingly. 19. Demonstrate effective decisions in the interests of a range of stakeholders with regards to change requests. 20. Demonstrate the handling of change within different project management methodologies. 21. Analyse the identification of internal and external stakeholders; their needs and impacts on the project. 22. Construct an effective project communication plan across stakeholders. with different cultural and physical barriers 23. Analyse information and communicate with stakeholder incorporating elements of feedback to understand and measure the effectiveness of planned communications. Demonstrate the handling of change within different project management methodologies. 24. Demonstrate effective listening and influencing of others through negotiation and persuasion. 25. Analyse the context, opportunities and challenges presented by projects in a range of organisational settings, appreciating the differences within both large and small organisations and in different industry sectors and the consequent need for tailoring. 26. Demonstrate that project risks, opportunities and issues are addressed using quantitative and qualitative methods to categorise risks and their impacts. 27. Demonstrate how to manage the project within the constraints of time, cost and quality. 28. Evaluate and maintain different commercial contract and procurement types to select appropriate options for specific programmes and projects.	See details in Section A Learning and Teaching Activities.	See details in Section A Learning and Teaching Activities.

Intended Learning Outcomes
C: Personal/Transferable/Employment Skills and Knowledge

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) On successfully completing this programme you will be able to:	Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be...
	...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class):	...and evidenced by the following assessment methods:
29. Apply collaboration techniques to build rapport and trust, develop networks and maintain relationships. 30. Demonstrate resilience and determination when managing difficult situations and influence the behaviours of others to agree and meet required project outcomes. 31. Construct, communicate and issue project-related reports and statements in an objective and truthful manner. 32. Demonstrate resilience and determination when managing difficult situations and influence the behaviours of others to agree and meet required project outcomes. 33. Actively seek the views of others and value diversity internally and externally 34. Demonstrate a drive for results with the ability to inspire and support project team members and manage stakeholder relationships. 35. Demonstrate understanding of the bigger picture and work enthusiastically and creatively to analyse problems and develop innovative and workable solutions to problems.	See details in Section A Learning and Teaching Activities.	See details in Section A Learning and Teaching Activities.

7. Programme Regulations

The Project Management apprenticeship is regulated under the funding requirements of the apprenticeship levy and is subject to external regulation including Ofsted, Education Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) and the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE)

Classification

Full details of assessment regulations for all taught programmes can be found in the TQA Manual, specifically in the Credit and Qualifications Framework, and the Assessment, Progression and Awarding: Taught Programmes Handbook. Additional information, including Generic Marking Criteria, can be found in the Learning and Teaching Support Handbook.

8. College Support for Students and Students' Learning

9. University Support for Students and Students' Learning

Please refer to the University Academic Policy and Standards guidelines regarding support for students and students' learning.

10. Admissions Criteria

Undergraduate applicants must satisfy the Undergraduate Admissions Policy of the University of Exeter.

Postgraduate applicants must satisfy the Postgraduate Admissions Policy of the University of Exeter.

Specific requirements required to enrol on this programme are available at the respective Undergraduate or Postgraduate Study Site webpages.

11. Regulation of Assessment and Academic Standards

Each academic programme in the University is subject to an agreed College assessment and marking strategy, underpinned by institution-wide assessment procedures.

The security of assessment and academic standards is further supported through the appointment of External Examiners for each programme. External Examiners have access to draft papers, course work and examination scripts. They are required to attend the Board of Examiners and to provide an annual report. Annual External Examiner reports are monitored at both College and University level. Their responsibilities are described in the University's code of practice. See the University's TQA Manual for details.

(Quality Review Framework.

14. Awarding Institution

University of Exeter

15. Lead College / Teaching Institution

Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy (ESE)

16. Partner College / Institution

Partner College(s)

Not applicable to this programme

Partner Institution

Not applicable to this programme.

17. Programme Accredited / Validated by

18. Final Award

BSc (Hons) Project Management (Integrated Degree Apprenticeship)

19. UCAS Code

Not applicable to this programme.

20. NQF Level of Final Award

6 (Honours)

21. Credit

CATS credits		ECTS credits

22. QAA Subject Benchmarking Group

23. Dates

Origin Date		Date of last revision	13/09/2024

Programme Specification for the 2025/6 academic year

BSc (Hons) Project Management (Integrated Degree Apprenticeship)

1. Programme Details

2. Description of the Programme

3. Educational Aims of the Programme

4. Programme Structure

5. Programme Modules

Stage 1

Compulsory Modules

Stage 2

Compulsory Modules

Stage 3

Compulsory Modules

Stage 4

6. Programme Outcomes Linked to Teaching, Learning and Assessment Methods

Intended Learning Outcomes A: Specialised Subject Skills and Knowledge

Intended Learning Outcomes B: Academic Discipline Core Skills and Knowledge

Intended Learning Outcomes C: Personal/Transferable/Employment Skills and Knowledge

7. Programme Regulations

8. College Support for Students and Students' Learning

9. University Support for Students and Students' Learning

10. Admissions Criteria

11. Regulation of Assessment and Academic Standards

14. Awarding Institution

15. Lead College / Teaching Institution

16. Partner College / Institution

Partner College(s)

Partner Institution

17. Programme Accredited / Validated by

18. Final Award

19. UCAS Code

20. NQF Level of Final Award

21. Credit

22. QAA Subject Benchmarking Group

23. Dates

Intended Learning Outcomes
A: Specialised Subject Skills and Knowledge

Intended Learning Outcomes
B: Academic Discipline Core Skills and Knowledge

Intended Learning Outcomes
C: Personal/Transferable/Employment Skills and Knowledge