Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit concentrates on the management of small business and the aspects of coping with survival and growth of small and medium-sized businesses. Topics include the role of small business in the economy; starting a small business; management challenges of running a small business; critical stages of growth; alternative modes of growth; the small business conglomerate; advising small businesses; franchising; family businesses; succession problems and small business strategies. Aspects of entrepreneurship and new venture creation are considered only briefly as these are covered in detail in MGMT5608 Entrepreneurship and Innovation. Students relate case studies of Australian small businesses with theory and undertake a substantial practical assignment which can include interviews with owner-managers or a consulting assignment.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Non-standard teaching periodUWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) conceptualise the approach required in advising small businesses, franchising, family businesses; (2) explain the role of small business in the economy; (3) explain the challenges management faces in running a small business; and (4) identify the critical stages of growth of small businesses.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) individual research paper; (2) group project; and (3) oral presentation. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Helen Cripps
Unit rules
Prerequisites
enrolment in
the Master of Business Administration (coursework)
or Master of Business Administration by Coursework and Dissertation
or the Graduate Certificate in Entrepreneurship and Innovation.
or approval from The Business School only, which will be determined with regard to relevant documented professional work experience.
Contact hours
lectures/seminars/workshops: up to 3 hours per week
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.