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 capstone unit takes a general, integrating perspective and is concerned with setting the strategic direction of organisations. The most important outcome from undertaking the unit is that students better consider how managers and organisations can think and act in a strategic way. The unit predominately uses case studies to improve the strategic thinking capability of students. A number of topics are considered: what strategy is; how strategy happens within organisations; vision, strategy and values; analysing environmental forces and searching for a sustainable competitive advantage; competitor positioning and game theory; the impact of disruptive technologies on business model innovation including forming inter-organisational networks of relationships; entrepreneurial strategies; core competencies; parenting advantage; strategic turnaround; chaos theory; measuring strategy; strategic leadership and ethics; and managing strategic change.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Non-standard teaching periodUWA (Perth)Face to face
Trimester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Trimester 3OnlineOnline flexible
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) explain the strategic management process through exposure to theoretical concepts and current developments in the field; (2) develop an appreciation of the organisation as an integrated system through extensive case analyses, encompassing a variety of concepts and theories covered in class; (3) think strategically and apply key course theories and tools to identify key challenges and opportunities; (4) make informed recommendations regarding the optimal path for the organisation for sustainable performance; (5) apply strategy models, frameworks and tools to their own work experiences and develop the knowledge and skills to strategically transform their organisation; (6) demonstrate a high degree of proficiency of written communication in a business context; (7) demonstrate the capability for self-directed learning and reflection; and (8) recognise, understand and respond appropriately to regulatory, ethical, social and sustainability issues.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) learning journal; (2) individual assessment; and (3) group assessment. 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)
Adjunct Associate Professor David Blyth, John Sykes (Trimester 3)
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Enrolment in
42520 Master of Business Administration (ID 42)
and 36 Points 42520 Master of Business Administration (ID 42)
Incompatibility
MGMT5502 Strategic Analysis and Consulting Project
Contact hours
trimester teaching period—lectures/seminars/workshops: up to 3 hours per week
non-standard period—6 sessions of 6 hours
  • 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.