This module is not currently running in 2026 to 2027.
The module introduces students to theories of management beginning with classical management perspectives through to contemporary management concepts. It will illustrate the continuities and transformations in management thinking throughout the 20th and 21st century. The main topics of study include: Scientific Management; Human Relations Approach; Bureaucracy and Post-Bureaucracy; The Contingency Approach; Culture Management; Leadership; Aesthetic Labour; Extreme Management.
The total study time for this module is 150 hours incorporating online e-learning, work-based experience and private study.
The programmes of study to which the module contributes
BSc Management associated with Chartered Manager Degree (Level 6), Operations/Departmental Manager (Level 5) and Junior Management Consultant (Level 4)
Main assessment methods:
Timed essay - 800 words; 45 minutes - In-Class Test (20%)
Group presentation (20%)
Workplace assignment individual report – 2000 words (60%)
Reassessment methods:
Reassessment Instrument: 100% coursework essay (2000 words)
Core Textbook
Clegg, S. Kornberger, M. & Pitsis, T. 2016: Managing & Organizations: An Introduction to Theory and Practice, Fourth Edition. London: Sage.
Secondary Reading
Buchanan, D. & Huczynski, A. 2013: Organizational Behaviour, Eighth Edition. Harlow: Pearson Education
(A ninth edition of this textbook was published in September 2016 but is not available in the library. As this is secondary reading, the 8th edition is acceptable.)
Fincham, R. & Rhodes, P. 2005: Principles of Organizational Behaviour, 4th Edition. Oxford: Oxford University Press
Knights, D. & Willmott, H. (eds.) 2012: Introducing Organizational Behaviour and Management. Hampshire: Cengage Learning
Watson, T.J. 2001: In Search of Management, Second Edition. London: Thomson Learning
Watson, T.J. 2006: Organising and Managing Work, Second Edition. Harlow: Pearson Education.
Seminar Reading
Students are provided with case studies, which they are working on every week during tasks. Students are also asked to read an associated journal article derived from journals such as:
Academy of Management Review, Academy of Management Annals, British Journal of Management, Journal of Management Studies, Leadership, Organization, and Work, Employment & Society.
See the library reading list for this module (Medway)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
- understand key theories of management
- understand the development of management thinking and the continuities and changes embedded in this
- interpret the interplay between management and organizational forms
- evaluate the impact of management thinking on processes such as control, decision-making and communication
- explain the connection between management practices and the business environment
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
- communicate management theories and ideas in writing
- present empirical examples
- interpret empirical examples through the lens of management theories
- retrieve information from a variety of sources
- plan work and study independently
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