Διοίκηση Επιχειρήσεων Εξ Αποστάσεως

Course Contents

In particular, the course covers the following:

development of student’s writing skills with emphasis given on writing

essays (argumentative essays -for and against, opinion)

formal letters (advice, complaint, application)

curriculum vitae

project writing

development of students’ speaking and listening skills through class discussions, oral presentation of students’ work in class and other communicative drills

extensive business writing including memoranda and agendas

business terminology

vocabulary enrichment achieved with students’ active participation in discussions on topics of common interest and the comprehension of passages from various sources

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. develop their writing and oral skills at a mature level, emphasising the literary effects of language
2. compose various forms of business writing and well-developed essays
3. apply acquired knowledge to write effectively for a variety of forms
4. communicate confidently and effectively in spoken language in a wide range of situations
5. use the vocabulary needed for advanced level communication
6. develop the ability to read and view for information and respond critically to social, cultural and emotional values in texts
7. analyse and evaluate advanced and authentic texts such as extracts, articles, and justify their opinion with accuracy and precision
8. develop and establish opinions, synthesise texts and ideas, and express authentic thought with clarity
9. identify and apply basic business terms essential in their academic and professional environment

Course Contents

In particular the course covers the following:

advanced argumentative essays with emphasis given on

outlining problems and offering solutions

giving an opinion

presenting both sides of an argument

report writing (assessment, proposal & informative)

note-taking

summary writing

news articles and press releases

effective oral presentation techniques

news letters

business terminology essential for effective business communication

vocabulary enrichment achieved with students’ active participation in class debates on topics of common interest and the comprehension of passages from various sources

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. show proficiency and fluency in the oral and written word
2. practise writing as a process of motivated inquiry, engaging other writers’ ideas through the use of quotations, paraphrase, allusions and summary
3. recognise how form and structure shape a text’s meaning and appreciate how genre generates expectations
4. deliver an effective oral presentation in an academic environment
5. interpret and summarise advanced reading texts
6. synthesize advanced written word and present it either orally or in writing in a logical and fluent manner
7. identify and apply the terminology used in the professional business world

Course Contents

Accounting equation: Understanding and applying the basic accounting equation.

Double entry bookkeeping: as applied to: assets, liabilities, capital, revenue, purchases and Expenses. Be able to balance off accounts.

Returns and carriage: Understanding and applying the accounting treatment of returns and carriage.

The ledger and its possible sub-divisions: Understanding the distinction between personal, real and nominal accounts.

Discounts: Applying the accounting treatment of discounts.

Capital and revenue expenditure: Understanding the distinction between capital and revenue expenditure.

Trial balance: The extraction of the Trial Balance from the ledger accounts.

Final Accounts: Introduction to Final accounts.

Adjustments to the final accounts:  These include adjustments for accruals, depreciation, prepayments, bad debts and the provision for bad debts.

Preparing final accounts: Preparing the Trading and Profit and Loss Account and Balance Sheet after dealing with adjustments.

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Identify the basic principles underlying the recording of business transactions and have the ability to prepare accounts for sole traders.
2. Apply the concept of double entry bookkeeping and also be in a position to prepare a Trading and a Profit and Loss Account for a sole trader-involving end of year adjustments.
3. Understand the notion of profit and its significance in the successful continuation of a business and calculate its value
4. Examine the concept of profit in accounting to that of profit and competitiveness in other business disciplines.
5. Use the understanding of accounting to evaluate the performance of companies.

Course Contents

C orrection of errors and journals: Understanding and applying journal entries to correct errors in the accounting records.

Control accounts: Preparing the sales ledger and purchase ledger control accounts.

Incomplete records: Preparing final accounts from incomplete records.

Non-profit organisations: Preparing final accounts for non-profit organisations.

Manufacturing accounts: Understanding their purpose and constructing manufacturing accounts.

Introduction to ratio analysis: Examination of key indicators for the financial performance and financial position of a firm.

Introduction to stock valuation: Identify and examine methods for carrying out stock valuation.

Introduction to partnership accounts:  These include: the legal framework, appropriation accounts and partners’ personal accounts.

Introduction to limited company accounts: Compare the differences between sole trader and limited company accounts.

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Prepare accounts for manufacturing businesses and partnerships. Furthermore to be able to apply the principles of double entry and prepare accounts from incomplete records
2. Evaluate the basic financial accounting concepts and prepare final accounts for all types of business.
3. Formulate an opinion at more advanced accounting subjects when analysis will become a key aspect.
4. Compare the differences between how companies perform in terms of their accounting profits, with the differences between how companies perform in terms of other measures of performance
5. Consider the accuracy of accounts as means of measuring how companies perform over the business cycle.

Course Contents

Introduction to Economics

Economic agents and economic problems. Inputs and outputs. The production possibility frontier.

The law of increasing marginal opportunity cost.

Economic Systems

The role of the market in the solution of the three economic problems. Resource allocation and the rational for government intervention. Market Outcomes and Market Failures vs. Government Failures

Market Fundamentals

The demand for goods. The demand schedule and the demand curve. Factors, determining demand. Shifts in demand.

The supply of goods. The supply schedule and the supply curve. Factors, determining supply. Shifts in supply.

The market equilibrium. Effects of a shift in supply or demand.

Quantifying Market Responses: Elasticity .

Price elasticity of demand. Elasticity and revenue.  Income elasticity of demand. Cross-price elasticity of demand. Price elasticity of supply.

Applications of Supply and Demand and Price Elasticity

The economics of agriculture. The impact of a tax on price and quantity. Price controls. Price floors and price ceilings.

Demand and Consumer Behaviour

Choice and utility. Consumer equilibrium. The dynamics of consumer equilibrium: income effect and substitution effect. Deriving   the demand curve. Consumer surplus.

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Identify economic problems and economic decision makers.
2. Apply graphical analysis to problem solving
3. Examine the role of the market in the solution of the three economic problems
4. Define and analyze market equilibrium and it dynamics.
5. Quantify market responses of buyers and sellers.
6. Identify and describe the applications of supply and demand
7. Analyze consumer decision making and assess the importance of consumer surplus

ABSE204: Μακροοικονομική Ανάλυση

Course Contents

Introduction to history and institutions

History of European Integration

Basic facts, law, institutions and the budget

Decision making

 

The economics of integration: tools and concepts

Introduction to essential microeconomic tools and preferential liberalisation

Market size and scale effects

Growth effects and factor market integration

Economic integration, labour markets and migration

Introduction to essential macroeconomic tools

 

EU Micro policies

The Common Agricultural Policy

Location effects, economic geography and regional policy

EU competition policy and state aid policy

EU trade policy

 

EU monetary and fiscal policies

The European Monetary System

The European monetary union

Fiscal policy and the Stability Pact

The financial markets and the euro

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Explain how European integration came about and analyse the economic and political logic that led to the creation of the Union.
2. Identify how micro and macro economic tools can help understanding the logic of integration.
3. Review the main EU policies and their effects on the economy and society.
4. Analyse the monetary and fiscal aspects of the European integration process.

Course Contents

The Legal System of Cyprus ; Definition of Law. Distinguishing between types of law. Considering the sources of law in Cyprus, namely the European Law, the Constitution, Case Law, Common Law & Equity. Meaning and application of the doctrine of precedent and the doctrine of necessity. Court structure, hierarchy and jurisdiction. EU institutions. Examination of sources of EU law (regulations, directives etc). Considering the notions of direct effect and direct applicability . Meaning of human rights and their protection in Cyprus.

Analysis/Introduction to Contract Law – Formation of Contracts I: Contract law definitions and Principles. Examination of the elements that are required for a legally binding contract to exist and analysis of the main elements: offer, acceptance, consideration, intention. Types of Contracts. Distinguishing offers from invitations to treat. Explanation of the doctrine of Promissory Estoppel and Privity of Contract.

Vitiating Factors of Contract and Terms – Formation of Contract II: Distinguishing between terms and representations. Classification of contractual terms (conditions, warranties etc). Meaning and effect of breach of contract. Remedies and rules for awarding damages.

The Law of Torts: The effect of tort law as part of the law of obligation. Distinction between liabilities and nature of tort and contract. Types of torts, namely the tort of negligence.

Introduction to Company Law: The effect of separate legal personality, distinguishing between different types of companies (private/public company and between companies limited by shares/by guarantee) and from other forms of businesses, such as partnerships.

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Acquire knowledge of the foundations of business law and how these operate within context of business.
2. Explain the main sources of law of Cyprus including the application of EU Law and UK Law, the structure and jurisdiction of the Courts and the application of legal doctrines.
3. Analyse the main elements of a legally binding contract, appreciate the key role of contract terms in commercial transactions, understand the effects of breaching a contract, the rules in relation to recovering damages and the remedies available to the innocent party.
4. Understand the difference between law of torts and law of contracts, the different types of torts including the tort of negligence.
5. Understand the structure and differences between various entities (companies and partnerships), advise and compare in terms of liability.
6. Analyse the legal liability of parties in business transactions and to demonstrate the capacity for legal analysis, research and problem solving skills within the context of Business Law.
7. Develop a critical understanding of the law so as to be able to apply the legal principles (and case law) to various practical situations and to produce written advice.

Course Contents

T he Law of Contracts: Review of the elements that are required for a legally binding contract. Meaning and effect of breach of contract (measure of damages, remoteness of damage & equitable remedies). Effect and application of exclusion clauses. Analysis of Sale of Goods Act.

The Law of Negligence: Analysis of the notion of duty of care and breach of that duty, as well as remoteness of damage caused due to negligence. Defenses to an action of Negligence.

The Law of Agency: Distinctive features of commercial agency (actual and apparent authority), creation of agency relationship (express, implication, ratification, estoppel etc). Agent’s duties and Liability.

Company law and Partnership Law: Structure, formation and management. Incorporation of a company, analysis of the constitutional documents of a company (Memorandum and Articles of Association). Analysis of issues such as Ultra Vires and pre-incorporation contracts. Directors’ role and duties (namely fiduciary duties). Meetings and resolutions of the company. Different types of partners and partnerships.

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Acquire knowledge of the foundations of business law and how these operate within context of business.
2. Define and analyze of contractual liability of parties, factors/clauses that affect the validity of contract (rules in relation to exclusion clauses) and advise in terms of damages (remoteness of damage, measure of damages, equitable remedies).
3. Analyze the main elements of negligence, notions such as duty of care, breach and damage and advise in terms of defences to an action of negligence.
4. Identify the distinctive features of commercial agency (concepts such as ratification, agency by holding out/estoppel). Understand the structure and differences between various entities (companies and partnerships) and compare in terms of liability, management and formation.
5. Assess business issues that may arise such as ultra vires transactions and pre-incorporation contracts and advise whether they invalidate business transactions. Analyse the role of directors and their duties towards the company. Distinguish the types of company meetings and resolutions.
6. Analyze the legal liability of parties in business transactions and to demonstrate the capacity for legal analysis, research and problem solving skills within the context of Business Law.
7. Develop a critical understanding of the law so as to be able to apply the legal principles (and case law) to various practical situations and to produce written advice.

Course Contents

Marketing in a changing world: creating customer value and satisfaction

What is marketing?

Understanding the marketplace and consumer needs

Marketing orientations towards designing a customer-driven marketing strategy

Building customer relationships

Capturing value form customers

The new marketing Landscape

Overview: Strategic marketing planning and marketing process

Company wide Strategic Planning: Defining Marketing’s Role

Planning Marketing: Partnering to Build Consumer Relationships

Marketing Strategy and the Marketing Mix

Managing the Marketing Effort

Measuring and Managing Return on Marketing

The Marketing Environment

The company’s Microenvironment

The company’s Macro environment

Responding to the Marketing Environment

Marketing in the internet age

Market Segmentation, targeting and positioning

Basis for consumer market segmentation – Geographic, demographic, psychographic, behavioural

Requirements for effective segmentation

Differentiation and Positioning

Market coverage strategies-Choosing a market coverage strategy

Market positioning and identification of competitive advantages

Choosing, communicating and delivering the right positioning strategy

Product, Services, and Branding Strategy

What is a Product?

Product and Service Decisions

Branding Strategy: Building Strong Brands

Services Marketing

Additional Product Considerations

Pricing decisions

Factors Affecting Price Decisions

Types of Cost Factors that affect Pricing Decisions

Pricing strategies

Distribution

What is a distribution channel

Types of intermediaries

Distribution channel functions

Vertical marketing systems (an introduction)

Promotion and environmental issues

The promotional mix

IMC concepts

Steps in developing effective communication

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Demonstrate understanding of the fundamental functions of marketing.
2. Identify and understand the importance of the various factors making up the company’s marketing environment.
3. Identify the elements of the marketing mix and comprehend their role in creating successful marketing strategies
4. Comprehend and use the concepts of market segmentation, targeting and positioning and the marketing strategies for differentiation and competitive advantage.
5. Apply basic marketing theories using case study analysis and group projects.

Course Contents

1.       Consumer Markets and Consumer Buyer Behaviour

a.       The marketing concept

b.       The marketing mix

c.       Customer value

d.       Model of Consumer Behavior

e.       Characteristics Affecting Consumer Behavior

f.         Types of Buying Decision Behavior

g.       The Buyer Decision Process

h.       The Buyer Decision Process for New Products

 

2.        Communicating Customer Value: Integrated Marketing Communications Strategy

a.       The Promotion Mix

b.       Integrated Marketing Communications

c.       A View of the Communication Process

d.       Steps in Developing Effective Communication

e.       Setting the Total Promotion Budget and Mix

f.         The Nature of Each Promotion Tool

 

3.       Advertising

a.       Advertising definition

b.       Setting Advertising Objectives

c.       Setting the Advertising Budget

d.       Developing Advertising Strategy

e.       Selecting Advertising Media

f.         Evaluating Advertising Effectiveness and Return on Advertising Investment

 

 

4.       Public Relations and Sponsorship

a.       Public Relations definition

b.       The Role and Impact of Public Relations

c.       Marketing Public Relations (MPR)

d.       Major Public Relations Tools

e.       Sponsorship definition

f.         Forms and levels of sponsorship

g.       Considerations for successful sponsorship

h.       Risks associated with sponsorship

i.         Ethical Considerations

 

5         Personal Selling and Sales Promotion

a.       The Nature of Personal Selling

b.       The Role of Sales Force

c.       Sales Force Structure

d.       Supervising and Motivating Salespeople

e.       Evaluating Salespeople and Sales force Performance

f.         Steps in Personal Selling Process

g.       Sales Promotion

h.       Rapid Growth of Sales Promotion

i.         Consumer Promotion Tools

j.         Developing the Sales Promotion Program

 

6         Direct and Online Marketing

a.       Building Direct Customer Relations

b.       Benefits to Buyers

c.       Benefits to Sellers

d.       Customer Databases and Direct Marketing

e.       Forms of Direct Marketing

f.         On Line Marketing

g.       On Line Marketing Domains

h.       Type of On Line Marketers

i.         Setting Up and Online Marketing Presence

j.         Designing Effective Web Sites

 

7.   New Product Development and Product Life-Cycle Strategies

a.       Product Life Cycle Strategies

b.       Introduction Stage

c.       Growth Stage

d.       Maturity Stage

e.       Decline Stage

f.         Linking PLC stages with different promotional tools

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Identify the fundamental functions of marketing and demonstrate understanding of the importance of the application of the fundamental functions of marketing by businesses in today’s competitive world.
2. Identify the main promotional tools and comprehend their role in achieving marketing objectives
3. Define the Product Life Cycle concept and relate the use of each of the promotional tools with the various stages of the Product Life Cycle.
4. Identify the importance of consumer behaviour principles in creating successful promotional campaigns for different market segments
5. Employ the consumer decision process model to identify how customers make their buying decisions

Course Contents

1. Introduction to marketing Research

a. What is Marketing Research?

b. The Marketing Information System

 

2. The Marketing Research Process

a. The Marketing Research Process (An Eleven-step process)

 

3. The Marketing Research Industry

a. Ethics and Marketing Research

 

4. Defining the problem and determining Research Objectives

a. Establishing the need for Marketing Research

b. Define the Problem

 

5. Research Design

a. Research Design: Exploratory, Descriptive, and Causal Research

 

6. Using secondary data and on-line information

a. Advantages / Disadvantages of Secondary data

 

7. Observation, Focus groups, and other Qualitative methods

a. Focus Groups

 

8. Survey Data-Collection Methods

a. Advantages of surveys.

 

9. Understanding Measurement in marketing Research

a.  Basic Question-Response Formats

b. Levels of Measurement Scales

 

 

10. Designing the Questionnaire

a. The Questionnaire Development Process

 

11. Selecting and Determining sample size

a. Basic concepts in Samples and Sampling

b. Sample size

 

12. Data Collection in the Field, Non-response Error, and Questionnaire Screening

a. Non-sampling Error in Marketing Research

b. Data Collection Errors

 

13. Generating descriptive and inferential statistics

a. SPSS

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Identify the importance of information systems in assisting the marketing planning process.
2. Understand the ways in which information is generated and utilised by modern companies.
3. Identify the 11 marketing research steps.
4. Outline the various research methods.
5. Employ the various research methods and tools to different marketing research situations.

Course Contents

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

Course Contents

New Perspectives on Marketing in the Service Economy

Why study Services?

What are Services?

The Marketing Challenges Posed by Services

The Expanded Marketing Mix Required for Services

 

Developing Service Concepts: Core and Supplementary Elements

Planning and Creating Services

The Flower Service

Planning and Branding service Products

Development of New Services

 

Distributing Services Through Physical and Electronic Channels

Place and Time Dimensions

Delivering Services in Cyberspace

 

Exploring Business Models: Pricing and Revenue Management

Effective Pricing Is Central to Financial Success

Pricing Strategy Stands on Three Legs

Putting Service Pricing into Practice

 

Educating Customers and Promoting the Value Proposition

Role of Marketing Communications

Communicating Services Presents Both Challenges and Opportunities

The Marketing Communications Mix

 

Designing and Managing Service Processes

Blueprinting Services to Create Valued Experiences and Productive Operations

Dysfunctional Customer Behaviour Disrupts Service Processes

 

Crafting The Service Environment

What is the Purpose of Service Environment?

Dimensions of the Service Environment

 

Managing People for Service Advantage

Service Employees Are Crucially Important

Frontline Work Is Difficult and Stressful

Cycles of Failure, Mediocrity, and Success

Human Resources Management:

How to Get It Right

 

Improving Service Quality and Productivity

What is Service Quality?

The Gaps Model-a conceptual tool to identify and correct Service quality Problems

Measuring and Improving Service Quality

Defining and Measuring Productivity

A Process for Developing New Services

 

 

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Identify the characteristics of services and the distinctive marketing challenges posed
2. Identify the components of the expanded services marketing mix (7 Ps) and apply the 7Ps concept to different service settings
3. Describe the flower of service and know how the facilitating and enhancing supplementary services relate to the core product
4. List the categories of new service development and be familiar with the factors needed to achieve success in developing new services
5. Evaluate the effectiveness of the 7Ps used by various service organisations

Course Contents

Understanding Marketing Strategy

Corporate and Marketing Strategy

Market Orientation

Strategic Marketing Planning

Stakeholder theory

Introduction to the strategic marketing process and the marketing plan

Understanding the marketing environment-Opening up Analysis and Positioning

Internal Analysis

Organizational Strengths and Weaknesses

The PLC

Product Portfolio Analysis (BCG Matrix)

External Analysis

Market Threats and Opportunities

The competitive environment

Porter’s Model of Industry Attractiveness

The impact of the internet on the competitive environment

Macro-environmental analysis

Models: PEST , PESTEL C, DEEPLIST

Market segmentation, targeting and positioning

Market segmentation process

Bases for market segmentation

Targeting strategies

Strategic Positioning

Marketing planning elements

Business mission

Objectives

Ansoff’s product/Market expansion grid

SWOT analysis

Value based marketing

Ethics in Marketing strategy

A Sustainable Earth Matters

Green Marketing Strategies

Social Marketing

Marketing to children

Shaping the core marketing strategy

Product development

Price

Distribution

Promotion

Communicating Effectively

Defining the IMC Concept

Corporate Image and Corporate Identity

The 7 evolutionary stages of IMC

Organizational Challenges to Implementing the IMC concept

IMC in the online environment

Brands and Brand Strategies

Advertising-branding relationship

Innovative advertising methods

Business to Business marketing

Implementation is the Key

Planned Versus Emergent Implementation

The Main Factors Influencing Strategy Implementation

Implementation through internal marketing

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Identify the principles and importance of strategic marketing thinking.
2. Apply the steps of corporate planning with particular emphasis on the design of appropriate mission and corporate portfolio design.
3. Identify the stages of the strategic marketing planning
4. Apply strategic marketing planning stages to prepare a marketing plan for a company
5. Design effective internal marketing strategies for effective implementation of strategic plans

Course Contents

• The Nature of Management and Organizations
• Types and main forms of business organizations and the reasons for their existence.
• The various resources organizations have available for the delivery of goods and services
• The roles, functions and skills of management.
• Application of the management functions on different organizational settings

The Evolution of Management Theory

• The schools of management though, since its early evolution.
• The relevance of Classical, Behavioural, and Management Science theories to management practice
• The Contingency and Systems approaches to managerial practice.
• The factors necessitating organizations to become learning organizations.

Organizational Environment and Effectiveness

• The major micro environmental and macro environmental factors impacting business operations
• The impact of the environment on organizational and managerial decisions.
• Techniques employed by organizations to respond to environmental impacts

Organisational Ownership and Types of Structures

• Forms of business ownership
• The structure of a proprietorship, partnership and Limited liability companies
• Managing franchising and licensing
• The characteristics of mergers, acquisitions and alliances
• Special issues in Corporate ownership

The Ethical and Social Environment of Organisations

• Ethics in an Organisational context
• Managerial ethics and managing ethical behaviour
• Emerging ethical organisational issues
• Social responsibility and corporate social governance
• The role of Government in social responsibility and the influence to organisations

Information Technology effects on Management

• • Managing Information and Information Technology
  • Information and the manager
  • Role of information in the manager’s job
  • Characteristics of useful information
  • Types of information systems
  • The internet

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

• 1. Analyse the nature of organizations in general and the role of management in particular
  2. Investigate the evolution of management schools and the main approaches to managerial process.
  3. Identify the internal and external environmental factors which affect general business practices and managerial decisions
  4. Identify and discuss the forms of business ownership, their characteristics and advantages and disadvantages
  5. Discuss what it means to practice good business ethics and highlight the factors that influence ethical behaviour.
  6. Investigate the impact of technology in managerial functions and the emergent issues pertaining with the evolution of the Internet.

ABSO104: Εισαγωγή στην Οργάνωση Επιχειρήσεων ΙΙ

Course Contents

Human Resource Management

Human Resource Management

Why HRM is important to all managers

Managers involved with HRM

Changing environment and Duties of HRM

HR Strategic Challenges

HR and Competitive Advantage

Strategic HRM

Staffing

Personnel Planning and Recruitment

Job Analysis

Writing job descriptions

Writing job specifications

Recruitment and Selection

Recruitment and Selection Process

Workforce (Personnel) Planning and Forecasting

Developing and using application forms

The Basics of testing and selecting employees

Using Tests at Work

Testing on the web

Interviewing Perspective Employees

Types of selection interviews

How useful interviews are

Using other selection techniques

Training

Training and Developing Employees

Training Process

Training Techniques

Evaluating the Training and Development Effort

Appraisal

Performance Management and Appraisal

Basic Appraisal Methods

The Appraisal Feedback Interview

Compensation

Monetary Compensation

How employers establish pay rates

Current Trends in Compensation

Incentive plans

Employee Incentive

Labour Unions – Employee Safety and Health

Labor Unions and Collective Bargaining

Impasses, mediation and strikes

Protecting Safety and Health

What causes accidents at work?

How to prevent accidents

Employee health: problems and remedies

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Demonstrate the necessary knowledge and understanding on the modern activities concerning the management of people.
2. Identify and describe the Human Resource functions such as recruitment, selection, compensation, development, performance and appraisal.
3. Apply the different methods available for effectively recruiting, selecting, compensating, developing, as well as appraising employees.
4. Evaluate the impact of emerging trends in the practice of major Human Resource Management functions and activities.
5. Demonstrate the basic elements of unionisation and the process of collective bargaining.

Course Contents

Chapter One – Basic Concepts: Phases of strategic management. Benefits of strategic management. Globalization and environmental sustainability as challenges to strategic management. Theories of organizational adaptation. The learning organization. Basic model of strategic management. Triggering events initiating strategy. Mintzberg’s modes of strategic decision making. Strategic decision making process. The strategic audit.

Chapter Two – Corporate Governance: Responsibilities of the board of directors and its role in strategic management. Composition of the board of directors. Agency theory versus stewardship theory. Codetermination and interlocking directorates. Executive leadership and the importance of strategic vision.

Chapter Three – Ethics and Social Responsibility: Positions for and against social responsibility. Importance of corporate stakeholders and stakeholder analysis

Chapter Four – Environmental Scanning and Industry Analysis:  Environmental scanning. Identifying external strategic factors.Industry analysis, including industry evolution, strategic groups, and hypercompetition. Forecasting techniques, including industry scenarios.

Chapter Five – Internal Scanning: Organizational Analysis: Core and distinctive competencies and VRIO framework. Business models. Industry and corporate value-chain analysis. Basic concepts in organizational structure and culture.

Chapter Six – Strategy Formulation: Situation Analysis and Business Strategy: Identifying a corporation’s strategic factors using the SFAS Matrix.Using the TOWS Matrix to generate potential strategic alternatives. Using the competitive strategies of lower cost and differentiation. Competitive strategy, industry structure, and hypercompetition. The use of offensive and defensive competitive tactics. Using the cooperative strategies of collusion and strategic alliances.

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Understand the benefits of strategic management.
2. Use the strategic audit as a method of analysing corporate functions and activities.
3. Describe the role and responsibilities of the board of directors in corporate governance.
4. Understand how the composition of the board can affect its operation.
5. Conduct a stakeholder analysis.
6. Use tools for analysing a company environment (SWOT analysis).
7. Conduct an industry analysis to understand competitive forces that influence the intensity of rivalry within an industry.
8. Generate strategic options by using TOWS matrix.
9. Understand the competitive and collaborative strategies available to corporations.

Course Contents

Chapter 1 – Globalization and international business:

The forces driving globalization.

Why companies engage in international business.

Modes of operations in international business.

 

Chapter 2 – The cultural environments facing business:

Behavioural practices affecting business.

Dealing with cultural differences.

 

Chapter 3 – The political and legal environments facing business:    

Should political risk management be an active strategy?

 

Chapter 4 – The economic environments facing business:

Elements of the economic environment. Features of an economy.

Integrating economic analysis.

 

Chapter 6 – International trade and factor mobility theory:

Free trade theories. The statics dynamics of trade.

Factor mobility theory.

 

Chapter 7 –  Governmental influence on trade:                       

Conflicting results of trade policies.

Economic and non-economic rationales of trade intervention.

 

Chapter 8 – Cross-national cooperation and agreements:

WTO, EU. Cyprus entry to the EU.

 

Chapter 9 –  Global foreign exchange markets:

How companies use foreign exchange. Major foreign exchange markets.

 

Chapter 10 – The determination of exchange rates:                         

IMF, Exchange rates arrangements. Determining and forecasting exchange rates. Business implications of exchange rate changes.

 

Chapter 11 –  The strategy of international business:                                                                     

Industry, strategy and firm performance. Global integration versus local responsiveness. Types of strategy.

 

Chapter 12 –  Country evaluation and selection:      

How does scanning work? What information is important in scanning?

Collecting and analysing data. Country comparison tools. Allocating among locations.

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Define globalization and international business and show how they affect each other.
2. Explain why companies engage in international business and identify various entry modes to foreign markets.
3. Analyse major causes of cultural difference and change.
4. Discuss cultural guidelines for companies that operate internationally.
5. Understand how political and legal systems affect the conduct of business.
6. Explain the idea of political risk and describe approaches to managing it.
7. Compare and contrast economic indicators.
8. Discuss theories of international trade and rationales of governmental policies.
9. Compare and contrast different regional trading groups including but not exclusively EU.
10. Explain the fundamentals of foreign exchange.

Course Contents

The students will perform the following tasks:

– identify research questions

– propose research methodology

– analyse literature

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Identify research topics of theoretical and conceptual relevance to his or her field of study
2. Formulate specific research questions and /or hypotheses within the above context
3. Identify scientific methods relevant to the chosen research field
4. Propose a specific methodology relevant to the selected research questions
5. Identify academic sources pertaining to the selected research area
6. Review relevant literature
7. Draft a literature survey
8. Complete a 5000 word draft document containing the above material

Course Contents

The students will perform the following tasks:

– collect data relevant to the research questions

– process and analyse the data

– identify results

– discuss these results

– interpret these results within the context of existingliterature

– draw conclusions

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Demonstrate the ability to collect data relevant to a specific research question
2. Analyse the data while following a specific methodology
3. Identify and explain results that can be derived from the above process
4. Discuss the research results in the light of the existing relevant literature
5. Prepare a relevant introduction and conclusion to the research project
6. Complete the existing 5000 word draft document to reach a final document of 12,000 words
7. Acquire skills in various domains including: writing, editing, conceptualizing, methodology, work organisation, time management, scientific rigor, academic honesty, ethics, critical thinking and creativity.

Course Contents

Introduction to Information Technology: Explain the basic concepts and terms related to computer / information technology. Explain hardware and software concepts, data processing cycle, viruses and how they can be addressed, ergonomic rules and conditions of health and safety when working with computers.

Windows Operating System: Become familiar with the computer environment, and desktop issues. Explain and apply computer files management as well as print management.

Word Processor: Introduction to Word Processor (Microsoft Word). How to use the application (open/close the application, create new and save a document, use help functions). How to adjust the settings of the application. Implement the main operations of the application such as insert, select, and edit data, as well as duplicate, move, delete, search and replace text. Explain and apply formatting issues and specifically text, paragraph and document formatting. Explain and apply tables, pictures, images, and charts management.

Spreadsheets: Introduction to Spreadsheets (Microsoft Excel). How to use the application (open/close the application, create new and save a spreadsheet, use help functions). How to adjust the settings of the application. Implement the main operations of the application related to the cells, such as insert data; select cells; manage rows and columns; edit, duplicate, move, delete, search, replace, and sort data. Explain and apply how to handle worksheets (i.e. worksheets setup), how to use formulas and functions (arithmetic formulas, call referencing, and functions). Explain and apply formatting issues (numbers, dates, contents, alignment and borders), charts and graphs development and printing issues.

Presentation: Introduction to Microsoft PowerPoint. How to use the application (open/close the application, create new and save a PowerPoint presentation, use help functions). How to adjust the settings of the application. Implement the main operations of the application such as insert new slide, slide design,

Internet (Information)/E-mail (Communication): Explain the basic concepts and terms related to the Internet, security considerations, and learn how to adjust settings. Apply the main steps to web: browsing (assessing, using favourites, and organizing web pages), and navigation (use a search engine). Explain the basic concepts and terms related to the Electronic mail, security considerations, and learn how to adjust settings. Apply the main steps to Messaging (read, reply, and send a message; duplicate, move, and delete email text), as well as mail management (using address book, organizing messages, and printing).

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Describe the main elements of a computer system including peripheral and networking devices and be able to use them in order to organise, share and transfer files using a stand alone system or in a networked environment.
2. Organise information using a word processor to formulate professionally presented high-quality electronic documents based on the features provided by the word processing software
3. Synthesize information using electronic spreadsheets in order to perform data analysis using calculated fields and functions, presented in the form of tables and/or graphs.
4. Communicate through emails and send electronic documents in plain or compressed form, as attachments, using the appropriate technology
5. Research material using the Internet and the World Wide Web to effectively find information using available online search engines, thus evaluating online information having in mind security considerations.

Course Contents

Introduction to information systems

Explain the new role of information systems in organizations

 

Key information systems in organizations

Define key information systems in organizations according to:

Functional areas

Management levels

Clarify key challenges to information systems

Enterprise Applications

Explain the key characteristics of Enterprise Applications

ERP; SCM, CRM systems)

Identify new opportunities and challenges

 

Data Management & Business Intelligence

Discuss

Data management

Business Intelligence

 

Building Information Systems

Discuss

Business process reengineering

IT development

IT Implementation

 

Process Improvement Exercise

Identify and analyse the information requirements for a new student registration system

Design new processes

 

Managing IT projects

Explain key steps in information systems project management

E-commerce & m-commerce

Discuss the key principles of

E-commerce

M-commerce

 

The Business of New Online Social Media

Discuss

What are online social media?

How do businesses utilize online social media to their benefit?

 

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Explain the role of different types of information systems for different business settings
2. Clarify the relationship between organizations, information systems, and business processes
3. Analyze existing business processes and design new ones using business process reengineering principles.
4. Identify project risks and utilize ways of managing those through project management principles
5. Distinguish the key principles of e-commerce & m-commerce
6. Indicate the business aspects of new social media (e.g. facebook)

Course Contents

Finance and the Financial Manager: Issues analyzed in the finance field, the different forms of business organizations and their advantages-disadvantages , main functions of financial manager, agency problems between the claimholders of the firm and proposed solutions.

The opportunity cost of capital and time value of money: Definition of the concept of the opportunity cost of capital and time value of money, compounding of interest and calculation of future values, discounting and the Net Present Value (NPV), the relation of opportunity cost with project risk , the rate of return rule and investment decisions in two-periods, the role of financial markets in allocating current and future consumption

Present value, simple and compound interest and applications: Future values for multi-period problems, the Net Present Value approach with multi-period problems , simple and compound interest calculations, present value short-cuts for special cases of present value calculations , present value analysis in the presence of inflation, real and nominal rates of interest, application of the present value approach for calculating the present value of a bank loan based on instalments paid, bank effective interest rate and its connection with the compounding of interest, introduction to bond valuation and bond terminology, the present value analysis applied to valuation of bonds.

Alternative methods for investment appraisal: The payback method for investment appraisal, the book rate of return and the internal rate of return method for investment appraisal, the properties of a proper investment appraisal method, identification of the situations where the payback, the book rate of return and the internal rate of return method may be invalidated, the problem of investment under budget constraints and solutions using profitability index and linear programming.

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Describe the issues involved in the finance field, the types of organization of firms and the role of the financial manager
2. Describe the issues involved in the finance field, the types of organization of firms and the role of the financial manager
3. Solve problems involving mutually exclusive alternatives.
4. Apply the present value approach to alternative business finance problems including bank loans and bond valuation.
5. Discuss the differences between alternative methods for project appraisal (Internal Rate of Return and Payback) and describe their disadvantages compared to the Net Present Value approach
6. Solve problems with current period budget constraints
7. Formulate and solve problems with multi-period budget constraints with linear programming

Course Contents

Calculation of cash flows: Income and taxes calculation, cash flow statement, depreciation and working capital adjustments, book value of assets and taxes on sale of asset, and opportunity cost adjustments in cash flow statement

Applications of present value: Choice of assets with different economic lives using the equivalent annual cost approach, choice of optimal timing of investment in the present value context

Financial Analysis and Planning: Categories of financial performance ratios (leverage, liquidity, efficiency, profitability, market based),calculation of different ratios, DuPont analysis of profitability, financial planning using ratio analysis, sustainable growth and dividend discount model with growth

Risk and return: Expected return and risk of a portfolio and diversification benefits, the Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM) and beta risk, applications of CAPM for project evaluation using discounted present value

Financing and the cost of capital: Miller-Modigliani theory and the value of the levered firm with debt tax shields, the weighted average cost of capital, the value of equity and debt, the impact of debt increase/decrease on the required returns of equity holders, and the adjusted present value approach

Other issues in financing: International patterns in corporate financing, types of equity and debt, convertible and callable debt and their use as opposed to traditional debentures, rights issues versus new share issues

Working capital management: Issues involved in working capital management, inventory management using the Economic Order Quantity model, credit quality and terms of sale (duration, discount), the decision to prepay or delay credit payment, factoring approach for collecting receivables

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Calculate detailed cash flow statements for net present value analysis and apply present value analysis in various contexts
2. Calculate financial ratios of firms and critically analyze a company’s leverage, liquidity, efficiency, profitability and market value of the firm
3. Apply DuPont analysis for understanding the sources of differences between firms’ profitability
4. Explain the use of Capital Asset Pricing Model for capital budgeting problems and the calculation of required investment returns
5. Explain how the tax benefits of debt exist and describe theories of capital structure
6. Calculate the present value of a firm using the weighted average cost of capital
7. Relate firm valuation using weighted average cost of capital with valuation of the firm using the adjusted present value approach
8. Enumerate the issues involved in working capital management and apply simple-practical models for inventory and credit management

Course Contents

Functions, limits, continuity. The concept of the derivative of a function. Derivatives of polynomial, logarithmic and rational functions.

Derivatives of the product and quotient. The chain rule.

Higher order derivatives (second, third etc)

Minimize and maximise a function using the second order derivative criterion.

Applications of derivatives in optimization problems with emphasis in business problems.

Functions of two or more variables. Maxima-minima. Application in business problems (marginal cost, marginal revenue, marginal profit, exact cost, maximum profit and minimum cost).

The Lagrange multipliers method.

Exponential growth and decay problems with emphasis to business applications.

Anti-derivatives and the concept of the indefinite integral. Integration of simple functions.

The concept of the definite integral. The fundamental theorem of calculus. Applications in business problems.

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Explain the concept of the derivative of a function and calculate the derivatives of polynomial, logarithmic and rational functions.
2. Apply differentiation for: sums, products, quotients, and the chain rule
3. Calculate and apply in real business problems the second and order derivatives (for minimization and maximisation).
4. Apply derivatives in optimization problems with emphasis in business problems (marginal cost, marginal revenue, marginal profit, maximization of profit and minimization of cost).
5. Calculate the partial derivatives of functions of two or more variables and to apply them for the calculation of the maxima and minima of optimization problems.
6. Apply and interpret the Lagrange multipliers method for constrained optimization.
7. Employ the models of exponential growth and decay problems with emphasis to business applications
8. Explain the concept of the indefinite and definite integral

Course Contents

Basic Algebra

Review of basic Algebra. Functions; Nature and notation, types of functions, (linear, quadratic, cubic, polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic). Graphical representation. Linear equations and analytical geometry of the straight line.  Linear functions.

Matrix Algebra-Simultaneous equations

The concept of a matrix. Types and properties of matrices. Transpose, inverse, symmetric, and identity matrix. Matrix algebra. Addition, subtraction, division, multiplication. Square matrices. Use of matrices to solve simultaneous equations (systems of linear equations with two or with three unknowns).

Linear programming-Formulation and graphical Solution

Inequalities in the plane. Introduction to Linear Programming. Graphical solutions for maximization and minimization. Applications in business problems. Special cases (no feasible region, unboundness and multiple solutions)

Linear programming-Formulation and Simplex Method

Further linear programming. Formulation of more complicated problems. Linear programming in 3-dimensions. The usage of Simplex Method. Duality and Sensitivity Analysis.

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Recognise the kinds of functions. Solve and draw simple equations and manipulate basic functions (linear, quadratic, exponential, and logarithmic)
2. Solve systems of linear equations (using various methods (determinants-Cramer’s method, substitution, elimination, comparison).
3. Understand the concept of a matrix (determine the size and the elements)
4. Recognize types of matrix (the symmetric matrix and the Identity).
5. Perform operations on matrices (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division by scalar).
6. Calculate the cofactors, the minors, the transpose and the inverse of a matrix in order to solve systems of linear equations.
7. Formulate and solve Linear Programming problems using the graphical method (determine and interpret the feasible region)
8. Solve Linear Programming problems using the SIMPLEX method (minimization and maximization).

Course Contents

Tabular and graphical methods

Statistics in practice. Kinds of data (discrete and continuous, ordinal and nominal). Different kinds of variables. Frequency tables, cumulative distribution tables and graphs (histograms, bar charts, pie charts). Shape of various data distributions (skewed, and symmetric).

Descriptive statistics: Numerical methods

Summarizing quantitative data. Measures of location (mean, mode, and median) and measures of dispersion (variance, standard deviation, range) for group data and raw data. Difference between measures of location and measures of dispersion and their significance. Extreme values, outliers and their importance.

Introduction to Probability

The idea of probability. Experiments, events, outcomes and sample space. Relative frequencies. Calculation of probabilities and basic relationships of probability (union of events, complement of event, intersection of events). Mutually excusive, mutually exhaustive and independent events. Conditional probability and multiplication law.

Discrete Probability Distributions

Probability distribution tables. Theory and their applications in Business problems concerning the discrete probability distributions: Binomial, Poisson. Expected values and variance.

Continuous Probability Distributions

Theory and their applications in Business problems concerning the continuous probability distributions: Normal distribution. Standard normal distribution and table of the standard normal distribution. Applications in Business problems. Discrete versus Continuous distributions.

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Recognise and identify the kinds of data (discrete and continuous, ordinal and nominal). Construct, present and interpret frequency tables, cumulative distributions and graphs (histograms, bar charts, pie charts). Understand and explain the shape of various distributions (skewed, and symmetric).
2. Summarizing, calculate and interpret the measures of location (mean, mode, and median) and measures of dispersion (variance, standard deviation, range). Identify extreme values and outliers and explain their significance in business applications.
3. Describe and explain the idea of probability, experiments, events, outcomes and sample space and construct the sample space given an experiment.
4. Calculate probabilities and basic relationships of probability (union of events, complement of event, intersection of events, conditional probability).
5. Distinct the difference between mutually exclusive, mutually exhaustive and independent events. Apply these in business problems.
6. Recognize and construct and explain probability distribution tables.
7. Recognize, use, apply and explain the theory and their applications in Business problems concerning the probability distributions (Binomial, Poisson, Normal distribution). Use the tables of the standard normal distribution for solving problems and interpret correctly the answers.

Course Contents

Sampling and sampling distributions

The various kinds of sampling techniques (simple, stratified, clustering). Sampling from finite and infinite population. Sampling distribution of the mean.

Interval estimation

Recall of the normal distribution. Point estimation of the population mean. Interval estimation of the population mean for large sample with s known and s unknown. The t-distribution and the table of t-distribution. Interval estimations of the population mean for small sample with s known or s unknown. Interval estimation of the population proportion. Determining the sample size for estimating mean or proportion.

Hypothesis testing

Hypothesis testing. Null and alternative hypothesis. Significant level. Types or errors (type I and II).

Tests of goodness of fit and independence

Chi-square distribution and its table. Chi square goodness of fit test. Contingency tables and the chi square test of association. “Statistical significance”.

Correlation

Independent and dependent variables. Pearson’s coefficient and the values of it

Simple linear regression

Independent and dependent variable. Scatter diagram. Coefficients (b0 and b1) of the simple linear regression model. Regression, using data from the business environment. Forecasting.

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Understand and implement the sampling distribution of the mean.
2. Use the t-distribution and read the table of t-distribution.
3. Understand, calculate and interpret interval estimation of the population mean for either small or large sample with σ known or unknown
4. Determine interval estimation of the population proportion and ddetermining the sample size
5. Understand the concept of hypothesis testing and be in a position to state the null and alternative hypothesis. Also understand the meaning of the significant level and recognise the two types or errors (type I and II).
6. Distinguish the difference between independent and dependent variable and construct the scatter diagram. Calculate and interpret the Pearson’s coefficient, and, estimate and interpret the coefficients (b0 and b1) of the simple linear regression model.
7. Apply regression, using data from the business environment and do forecasting.
8. Recognize the chi-square distribution and make use of its table.
9. Implement the two chi square tests, goodness of fit test and test of independence, with real data and interpret the results. Explain the meaning of the “statistical significance”.

Course Contents

I. Nature of Business Research

Clarify the research topic
Attributes of a good research topic

Rational thinking

Refining and turning research ideas into research projects

II. Critically Reviewing the Literature

Content and structure of critical review

Literature sources available

Planning obtaining evaluating and recording the literature

III. Research Strategy – Negotiating Access

Different research strategies

Problems and strategies to gain access

Use contacts, overcome concerns, benefits to the organization

IV. Data Collection using Interviews and Questionnaires

Types of interviews

Situations favouring qualitative research interviews

Way to conduct interviews

When to use questionnaires, different types and choices

Designing the questionnaire

Pilot testing and assessing validity

V. Analysing Qualitative Data

Categorization and Unitization

Recognizing relationships and developing categories

Developing and testing hypotheses to reach conclusions

VI. Ethical Issues

Ethics in data collection

Ethics related to the analysis and reporting stages

VII. Writing the Project

Getting started with writing

Structuring your project

Developing an appropriate writing style

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Identify and understand the need for and methods to search for, extract, and synthesize information in a particular subject and topic area.
2. Evaluate and obtain information from a variety of sources.
3. Appraise information sources on the basis of quality and reliability.
4. Collect and analyze data using qualitative methods.
5. Demonstrate how different research strategies can help structure the research project.
6. Apply all the above during both the mid-term and final presentation and subsequent preparation of the research project submitted

Course Contents

1.    Introduction: Research process: Steps we follow to do research.

2.    Structure of a research report: Parts of a research report and what is included in each part.

3.    Understanding different methodological approaches. Main research strategies and elements of a research design. Introduction to quantitative methodological approaches. Structure of a questionnaire.

4.    Quantitative research: Analysis and organization of data. Analysis of two variables and the relationship between them. Examples using real data in lab, along with using appropriate software packages such as SPSS, Excel and other.

5.    Statistical methods: Regression analysis (least squares method) for quantitative data. Simple Regression (between two variables). Analysis and explanation of the results.

6.    Multiple regressions: analysis between more than two variables, interpretation of the results.

7.    Extensions of multiple regression using dummy variables, logarithms and quadratics. Hypothesis testing using basic statistical tools on the significance of the results. Examples using real data in lab.

8.    Application of all the above using questionnaire data in excel and though a project and presentation of that project.

9.    Writing the report and prepare the presentation.

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Comprehend the nature of research. Why do we do research?
2. Write the research report: Structure of the report
3. Understand different quantitative methodological approaches
4. Collect and analyze quantitative data (data obtained online from various organizations and use of questionnaires)
5. Describe data using basic statistics (mean-variance-quartiles etc).
6. Use of software packages for data processing.
7. Analyze and explain data results using basic estimation techniques (Regression analysis-Least squares method)
8. Apply all the above during both the mid-term and final presentation and subsequent preparation of the research project submitted

Course Contents

Double entry bookkeeping for company reorganisations: Issues of shares and debentures. Bonus issues, share splits and rights issues

Investment accounts: Examine the theory and practice of double entry bookkeeping as applied to investments with their effect on the balance sheet.

Redemption of securities: Legislation concerning redemption of securities. Ledger and journal entries.

Limited company accounts for internal use: Preparing final accounts for limited company accounts for internal use.

Limited company accounts for publication: Examine formats in line with the relevant legislation and accounting standards. Preparing final accounts for limited company accounts for publication.

Accounting standards: Examination of main principles and accounting standards concerning tangible assets, intangible assets and depreciation.

Introduction to group accounts:  Analyse the significance of subsidiaries and minority interests to group accounts. Be able to prepare consolidated adjustments for goodwill, minority interests and the retained profit. The preparation of group accounts concerning a two-company group.

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Prepare investment accounts for limited companies and apply the principles of double entry to company reorganisations including the issue of shares and debentures.
2. Construct limited company accounts either for publication or for internal use
3. Examine and apply the accounting standards in the areas of: tangible assets, intangible assets and depreciation
4. Appraise the financial performance and financial position of limited companies
5. Apply the basic principles of group accounts.

Course Contents

Advanced aspects of group accounts: Prepare group statements of financial position (balance sheets). Examine consolidated adjustments such as inter group profits, fair value adjustments and inter company balances amongst others. Solving exercises on consolidated adjustments.

Theory of business combinations: Examine the theory and practice of business combinations.

Ratio analysis: Examine the rationale behind ratio analysis. Identify the formulas concerning the main profitability ratios, liquidity ratios, efficiency ratios and investment ratios and their interpretation. Interpret the financial performance and position of the firm from financial statements.

Statements of cash flow: Examine formats in line with international accounting practice. Preparing statements of cash flows for limited company for publication. Interpretation of the results.

Acquisitions of unincorporated businesses: Examine the double entry bookkeeping when an unincorporated business (such as a partnership) is acquired by a limited company. Analyse the double entry bookkeeping from the company viewpoint concerning the acquisition. Interpretation of the results.

Disposals of partnership businesses:  Analyse the reasons behind partnership dissolutions. Examine the double entry bookkeeping when a partnership is disposed of to a limited company. Analyse the double entry bookkeeping from the company viewpoint concerning its acquisition.

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Apply financial accounting principles in a corporate setting. Emphasis will be on developing the student’s analytical and critical abilities
2. Prepare group accounts involving consolidation adjustments and interpret the financial position of the group.
3. Prepare statements of cash flows in accordance with international accounting standards and be in a position to interpret the results.
4. Interpret the financial performance and financial position of limited companies using ratio analysis.
5. Examine advanced aspects of partnership accounting

Course Contents

Introduction to cost and financial accounting: Contrast cost with financial accounting. Identify and define costs by classification and behaviour.

Accounting for materials: applying the FIFO, LIFO and Weighted average methods of stock valuation. Understanding how each method may affect the firm’s profitability.

Costing for labour: Understanding different methods of remuneration such as the time basis and piecework basis and applying these methods. Payroll accounting.

Costing for overheads: Explain the terms “allocation”, “apportionment” and “absorption” in the context of overhead accounting. The overhead analysis sheet and its application to determining an overhead absorption rate. Understanding the process of determining the overhead absorption rate.

Specific order costing techniques: Examining and applying job costing, batch process costing and contract costing.

Process costing: Applying the double entry bookkeeping principles for process costing. Understanding and applying the treatment of losses (normal and abnormal) and equivalent units.

Joint costs:  Examine the accounting treatment of joint costs and by products.

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Compare and contrast cost accounting to financial accounting.
2. Identify and define costs by classification and behaviour.
3. Evaluate the concept of cost behaviour and explain its relevance to costing.
4. Examine the principles of costing concerning materials, labour and overheads and apply these to mini-case studies.
5. Develop the techniques involved in specific order and continuous costing to solve mini-case studies.

Course Contents

Stock control: Evaluate the concept of the economic order quantity and its relevance to stock control. Applying costing techniques to assist in making decisions on stock management.

Marginal and Absorption costing: Preparing profit statements using the marginal costing and absorption costing systems. Be in a position to interpret the results and to understand the differences between the two costing systems.

Break even analysis: An introduction to break-even analysis (cost volume profit analysis).  Calculating the break-even point either graphically or by formula. Be able to construct a profit-volume chart and understanding the differences with that of the break-even chart. Be able to solve problems when variables concerning costs or revenues change.

Standard costing and variance analysis: An introduction to standard costing and its relevance to controlling performance. Applying variance analysis to mini case studies and is in a position to interpret the results.

Budgeting and Budgetary Control: Understand the theoretical concepts concerning budgets including the relationship of behaviour to budgets. Be able to prepare cash budgets and master budgets and understanding the results. The preparation of other budgets such as sales and production.

Costs for Decision-Making: Applying Marginal Costing techniques used in short –term decision making such as make or buy, accept or reject and limiting factor decisions.

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Evaluate the concept of the economic order quantity and its relevance to stock control.
2. Explain the theoretical background to break even analysis and apply it to decision-making.
3. Construct profit statements using different cost accounting systems and be in a position to interpret the results.
4. Prepare budgets (such as cash budgets) and be in a position to interpret the results.
5. Apply the techniques used in variance analysis to solve mini-case studies.

Course Contents

Advanced aspects of consolidated accounts: Prepare group statements of financial position (balance sheets) and financial performance (statements of comprehensive income). Examine consolidated adjustments such as inter group profits, fair value adjustments and inter company balances amongst others. Solving exercises on consolidated adjustments. Examine the accounting treatment of associates and joint ventures.

Accounting standards: Examination of main principles and accounting standards concerning non-current assets, inventories, provisions, contingencies, post balance sheet events, prior year adjustments, investments, construction contracts and goodwill.

Interpretation of performance: Examine the rationale behind ratio analysis. Examine performance indicators used in investment decisions. Interpret the financial performance and position of the firm (including public companies) from financial statements.

Statements of cash flow: Examine formats in line with international accounting practice. Preparing statements of cash flows for limited company for publication. Interpretation of the results. Introduction to the principles of consolidated statements of cash flow.

Limited company accounts for publication: Examine formats in line with the relevant legislation and accounting standards. Preparing final accounts for limited company accounts for publication that includes applications of accounting standards.

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Examine the principles concerning group accounting and use this knowledge to prepare consolidated accounts for groups.
2. Identify the principles of the cash flow statement and prepare cash flow statements in accordance with international accounting standards.
3. Prepare limited companies accounts to comply with International Accounting Standards, International Financial Reporting Standards and other related pronouncements.
4. Interpret the information provided by limited companies accounts, group accounts notes to the financial statements and cash flow statements.
5. Appraise the accounting standards applicable at the time to: non-current assets, inventories, provisions, contingencies, post balance sheet events, prior year adjustments, construction contracts and goodwill.

Course Contents

Complex aspects of consolidated accounts: Examine and prepare complex group accounts that include amongst others: disposals of group companies, piecemeal acquisitions and foreign subsidiaries.

Fair value accounting: Identify the accounting framework in international accounting and based on this critically evaluate the practice on fair value accounting.

Impairment of assets and goodwill: Critically appraise the accounting practice of impairment of assets to accounting theory. Critically appraise the different ways goodwill could be accounted for.

Provisions and contingencies: Examine the accounting practice and disclosures in line with international accounting practice.

Substance over form: Critically evaluate the debate between economic substance over legal form in accounting and examine the various areas where there is a conflict between the two. Review the developments concerning off balance sheet finance. Critically appraise the effects on performance and on the financial position of off balance sheet options.

Current developments: Examine recent proposals by international accounting standard setters concerning changes in accounting practice (including discussion papers). Critically appraise the current developments in international accounting practice concerning proposed changes. Examine changes in practice in financial instruments. Examine the issue of hamonisation of accounting practice. Examine the IASB Framework and its influence on accounting practice.

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Examine and prepare complex group accounts that include amongst others: disposals of group companies, piecemeal acquisitions and foreign subsidiaries.
2. Appraise the legitimacy and acceptability of an accounting practice proposed by a company.
3. Examine the accounting standards applicable at the time to: provisions, contingencies, financial instruments, fair value accounting and impairment of assets.
4. Develop the ability to solve complex practical accounting problems.
5. Evaluate current developments in corporate reporting in the context of their practical application, implications for corporate reporting and the underlying conceptual issues.

Course Contents

Multinational dimensions of accounting: Analyse the factor concerning the development of national accounting systems. Examine the characteristics of multinational accounting against national frameworks. Evaluate the influence of culture in accounting. Analyse important recent trends in the development of international accounting.  

Conceptual development: Identify the international accounting framework and critically evaluate the philosophy to countries that have their own framework such as the USA and UK .  

Variation trends in International Accounting: Critically evaluate the USA accounting system and compare to the UK system, Continental Europe and the Far East . Examine and analyse the Cyprus accounting system and compare against other systems. Critically evaluate current developments in accounting practice in Cyprus .

Harmonisation of accounting practice: Identify the term accounting harmonisation. Examine the pressures for accounting harmonisation. Analyse the benefits and drawbacks of accounting harmonisation. Critically examine the current situation concerning harmonisation and analyse the efforts for harmonisation. Contrast the differences between international accounting standards and US GAAP.

Specific reporting issues: Critically evaluate the accounting practice between significant countries and international standards concerning: Inflation accounting, asset revaluations, foreign currency translations. Critically evaluate the accounting practice between significant countries and international standards concerning: goodwill, intangibles, financial instruments, consolidations and segmental reporting.

Transnational Financial Reporting & Disclosure: Examine recent proposals by international accounting standard setters concerning changes in financial reporting and disclosures. Applying the knowledge learnt to solve case study scenarios requiring a restatement of financial statements using two different accounting regimes.

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Examine and critically appraise the treatments of key technical accounting issues used by various accounting standards bodies including the IASB and FASB.
2. Appraise the major issues connected with the harmonisation of accounting practice internationally.
3. Interpret the information contained in consolidated financial statements from various countries by demonstrating a thorough understanding of the principles, formats and methods used to prepare the published information, and implications of the choices made.
4. Discuss the multinational dimensions of accounting and conceptual development.
5. Evaluate current developments in international accounting in the context of their practical application, implications for corporate reporting and the underlying conceptual issues. Appraise the influences that affect the accounting practice in various countries.

Course Contents

Costing techniques: The theory and practice behind specific order costing techniques including job costing. Evaluate the theory and practice of continuous costing. Application of the equivalent units approach to process costing.

Cost behaviour and learning curve theory : The theory and practice of cost behaviour. Examine the learning curve theory and evaluate its effect on profitability.

Performance measurement: Examine the performance hierarchy. Analyse the scope of performance measurement. Evaluate performance measurement indicators both financial and non-financial. Evaluate the effect of external considerations on performance. Non-financial measures. Analyse the management impact on performance measurement. Design and interpret performance evaluation systems.

Standard Costing and Variance Analysis: Critically analyse the theory and practice of standard costing and its relevance to controlling performance. Traditional, mix variance and planning variances. Operating statements reconciling budgeted profit to actual profit.

Budgetary control: Examining and appraising alternative systems of budgeting systems such as zero rated budgeting. Examining research on the behavioural aspects of budgeting. Current developments in budgeting.

Budgets: The master budget and its preparation. Advanced budgeting and advanced variance analysis techniques.

Transfer pricing: Concept of transfer pricing. The economic approach to transfer pricing. Transfer pricing and its link to performance.

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Employ the specific order and continuous costing techniques to decision-making and stock valuation.
2. Identify and employ appropriate budgeting and variance analysis techniques to enable management to control the business.
3. Evaluate the strategic performance of a business and select appropriate financial and non-financial performance measures.
4. Explain the different approaches to transfer pricing and apply them to mini-case scenarios.
5. Design performance evaluation systems from mini-case study scenarios and, interpret the results.

Course Contents

Strategic Management Accounting: Corporate strategy as opposed to operational strategy. Life cycle issues in management accounting. The benchmarking technique. Risk and uncertainty techniques in management accounting. Strategic management accounting techniques.

Developments in management accounting: Current issues in management accounting such as material requirement planning, balance scorecards and balanced scorecards and their relevance and application.

Short-term decisions: Relevant and irrelevant costs. Cost volume profit analysis and decision-making. Opportunity costs in decision-making. Make or buy decisions. Marginal costing techniques including changes in product mix, discontinuance of products and further processing decisions.

Management Information: Sources of information within and outside the firm. Information technology and management information. Accounting information for strategic planning, management control, operational control and decision-making. Relationship between information requirements and management structure.

Activity based budgeting: Purpose and approaches of activity based budgeting. Activity based budgeting techniques. Quantitative aids in budgeting. Current developments in budgeting.

Pricing decisions: The economic model in pricing decisions. Costing techniques for pricing decisions. Advanced costing techniques for pricing such as target pricing and price based approaches.

Limiting factors: Limiting factors in decision making. Techniques used in solving one limiting factor in decisions and multi-limiting factors in decisions such as linear programming techniques.

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Assess the objectives of preparing management information and the need to adapt techniques in a changing commercial environment.
2. Use costing techniques to evaluate management decisions in relation to costing, pricing, limiting factors, product range and marketing strategy.
3. Examine the features of activity-based approaches and be able to apply them to mini-case studies.
4. Identify and discuss recently adopted management accounting techniques and explain how these techniques may be evaluated.
5. Appraise the strategic aspects of management accounting.

Course Contents

The nature and purpose of an audit: Audit objectives. The role of auditors. The expectation gap. The changing role of an audit. Internal versus external audits.

Professional and legal regulation: The auditor’s duties and responsibilities concerning the statutory audit. The law concerning the removal, appointment and resignation of auditors. Rules of professional ethics. Auditor independence.

Fundamental principles and the framework of an audit: True and fair concept. Materiality. Evaluating compliance of financial statements with accounting requirements.

An overview of the auditing process: Audit planning. Audit evidence – collection and analysis. Evaluation of internal controls and procedures. The balance sheet audit and the audit report.

Review of financial statements and audit reports: Explain and understand the role of the review of the financial statements to the audit process.  Tasks to be carried out in the review. Different types of audit reports that may be issued. Analyse the contents of an audit report. Small and medium sized companies and the audit.

Introduction to the internal audit: Internal audit versus external audit.

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Identify and discuss the nature, purpose and scope of an audit.
2. Compare and contrast the characteristics of an internal and external audit
3. Appraise the statutory and professional duties of an audit.
4. Examine the true and fair view and its significance to the audit.
5. Design an audit plan when given a mini-case scenario.

Course Contents

Audit evaluation and planning: Engagement letters. Developing an audit plan. Sources of audit evidence. Establishing materiality levels, statistical sampling and size. Audit and business risk. Substantive analysis at the planning stage. Designing, documenting and re-evaluating the audit plan.

Internal Controls and Audit Testing: Internal controls, objectives, procedures and tests of control. Computer systems and internal controls.

The Income Statement Audit: Auditing the sales and purchases system. Auditing wages, cash and various other systems.

The Balance Sheet Audit-Assets: Audit procedures, controls and tests for: Inventories, Non-current assets; Receivables, Cash and other current assets.

The Balance Sheet Audit-Liabilities and Equity: Audit procedures and tests for: Current and non-current Liabilities, Share capital and reserves.

Finalising the Audit: The final review stage. Reviewing the truth and fairness of financial statements. The audit report and the potential effects of qualifications.

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Identify and explain the different components of audit risks and understand their significance to planning the audit.
2. Describe and evaluate accounting and internal control systems and identify and communicate control risks, potential consequences and recommendations.
3. Explain the importance of audit evidence and apply this knowledge to material aspects of the financial statements.
4. Examine the procedures undertaken at the review stage of the audit.
5. Construct suitable audit reports based on mini-case study scenarios

Course Contents

Capital Gains Tax: Examine the scope of this tax. Prepare computations for the tax and recognise the administration of the tax.

Corporation tax: Construct computations involving basic aspects (such as taxable income, losses). Rental income assessments. Capital allowances.

Overview of tax system: Identify the structure of the tax system in Cyprus and compare it to the UK . Examine the roles of tax inspectors and tax collectors. Examine the issue of tax residency in Cyprus .

VAT: Evaluate the basic principles of VAT for individuals and companies. Registration and deregistration. Tax point theory. Computations of VAT.

Income tax and business tax: Assess the basic principles of income tax. Prepare income tax computations for individuals involving both basic principles and advanced aspects. Rental income assessments.

Tax planning: Applying tax planning solutions for individuals and companies concerning: corporation tax, income tax, husband   and wife cases, capital gains tax and VAT.

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Interpret the results of tax computations for individuals and companies.
2. Identify the tax system in Cyprus and compare it to the UK.
3. Construct tax computations for individuals and companies.
4. Examine computational and theoretical aspects of VAT.
5. Evaluate case study scenarios on business tax and propose tax saving schemes

Course Contents

Corporation tax: Construct computations involving advanced aspects. Group tax theory. Foreign tax aspects. Balancing allowances and charges.

Income tax and business tax: Assess the basic principles of income tax. Prepare income tax computations for individuals involving both basic principles and advanced aspects. Rental income assessments. Foreign tax aspects. Benefits in kind.

Capital Gains Tax: Examine the scope of this tax. Prepare computations for the tax and recognise the administration of the tax. Examine aspects of capital gains tax in the areas such as gifts, inheriting property, exchanging property etc. Produce solutions to minimising tax using available tax reliefs.

VAT: Evaluate the basic principles of VAT for individuals and companies. Registration and deregistration. Tax point theory. Computations of VAT. The calculation of the VAT Return bearing in mind various reliefs that may be claimed. VAT for groups.

Administration of tax: Apply the procedures concerning the administration of tax giving advice to clients in the form of letters, memos or reports. Provide tax advice concerning late payment of tax and potential interest and penalty payments for individuals and companies.

Social insurance: An introduction to Social Insurance and its computations concerning employees and employers.

Tax planning: Applying tax planning solutions for individuals and companies concerning: corporation tax, income tax, husband and wife cases, capital gains tax and VAT.

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Interpret the results of advanced tax computations for individuals and companies.
2. Identify the system of group relief in Cyprus and compare it to the UK.
3. Construct advanced tax computations for individuals and companies.
4. Examine computational and theoretical aspects of VAT and propose tax saving schemes..
5. Evaluate case study scenarios on a multiple of taxes and propose tax saving schemes.

Course Contents

The Importance of International Economics; International Trade and the Nation’s Standard of living.
The Law of Comparative Advantage. The Basis for and the Gains from Trade Under Constant Costs.
Demand and Supply, Offer Curves, and the Terms of Trade.
Factor Endowments and the Heckscher – Ohlin Theory. Assumptions of the Theory.
Factor Intensity, Factor Abundance, and the Shape of the Production Frontier. Heckscher – Ohlin Theorem.
Neutral, Labour – Saving and Capital-Saving Technical progress. Growth and trade – the small country case and the large country case.
Trade Restrictions: Tariffs. Partial Equilibrium Analysis of a Tariff.
Non-tariff Trade Barriers and the New Protectionism.
Import Quotas and their effects on the economy.
The Exchange rate. Fixed vs. floating exchange rate systems.
The Balance of Payments
The international monetary system.
Theory and practice of international economic integration

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Demonstrate the ability to understand the Importance of International Economics; The Law of Comparative Advantage
2. Appraise how Demand and Supply works in trade and the Terms of Trade
3. Evaluate the Factor Endowments and the Heckscher – Ohlin Theory, and the assumptions of the theory.
4. Apply the workings of Trade Restrictions such as Tariffs, the partial equilibrium analysis of a Tariff; and also the Non-tariff Trade Barriers and the New Protectionism.
5. Evaluate the centrifugal and centripetal forces in the world economy and assess the impact of institutional differences on international trade and international business
6. Examine how exchange rates are affected by fluctuations in economic growth, inflation, interest rates, and expectations.
7. Explain the meaning of the Balance of payments and compare and contrast the effects of fixed versus flexible exchange rates on a nation’s macroeconomic performance.
8. Understand and assess the theory of economic integration and explain origins, evolution, and treaties of the European Union.

Course Contents

The Role of Money in the Macro Economy
Introducing Money, Money, the Economy, and Inflation

Financial Instruments, Markets, and Institutions
Flow of Funds, Financial Instruments and Markets, Financial Intermediaries: Purposes and Profile

Interest Rate Measurement and Behavior
Calculating Interest Rates, What Determines the Level of Interest Rates?

Understanding Foreign Exchange
What Determines Foreign Exchange Rates? Fixed Versus Floating Exchange Rates

The Classical Foundations
Classical Economics, Aggregate Demand and Supply: A Summary, Real Versus Nominal Rates of Interest, Modern Modifications: Monetarists and New Classicists

The Keynesian Framework
When Saving Doesn’t Equal Investment, Consumption and Simple GDP Determination, Government to the Rescue, Money and the Rate of Interest, Monetary Policy, Aggregate Demand and Supply

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Identify the role of money in an economy, comprehend the different measurements of money and see how money drives inflation and economic expansion
2. Differentiate the flow of funds between savers and borrowers and identify how financial intermediaries assist the transfer of funds from lenders to borrowers
3. Describe present value and mechanisms of calculating interest rates, comprehend different types of bonds and loans, understand interest rate determination
4. Measure and determine foreign exchange rates, analyse fixed and floating exchange rate mechanisms
5. Define the classical understanding of aggregate supply, supply of saving and demand for investment that leads to the equilibrium interest rate, the quantity theory of money, nominal and real interest rate
6. Discuss the differences among saving, investment, desired saving and desired investment and explain how these differences can generate short-run fluctuations in real GDP. Interpret the Keynesian theory of monetary policy and its role in impacting the economy

Course Contents

Economics, institutions and development: How the other half live? Economics and development studies; Economies as social systems; What do we mean by development?

Comparative development: differences and commonalities among developing countries. Defining the developing world; The structural diversity of developing economies; Common characteristics of developing nations; How developing countries today differ from developed countries in their early stages; Are living standards of developing countries and developed countries converging?

Classic theories of economic development: Development as growth and the linear-stages theories; Structural change models; The international-dependence revolution; The neoclassical counterrevolution: market fundamentalism; Classic Theories of development: reconciling the difference

Contemporary models of development and underdevelopment: The new growth theory: endogenous growth; Underdevelopment as a coordination failure;

Poverty, Inequality and development: Measuring inequality and poverty; Social welfare; Absolute poverty; Policy options

Population growth and economic development: causes, consequences and controversies. The basic issue; A review of numbers; The demographic transition; The cause of high fertility in developing countries – the Malthusian model; The consequence of high fertility; Policy approaches

Urbanisation and rural-urban migration: theory and policy. The migration and urbanisation dilemma; The role of cities; The urban gigantism problem; The urban informal sector; Urban unemployment; Migration and development

Human capital: Education and health in economic development. Investment in education and health: the human capital approach; Child labour; The gender gap; Educational systems and development; Health systems and development

Agricultural transformation and rural development: Agricultural growth: past progress and current challenge; The role of women; The economics of agricultural development; Policy implications

The trade policy debate: export promotion, import substitution and economic integration. Export promotion versus import substitution; The industrialisation strategy approach to export policy; South-South trade and economic integration; Trade policies of developed countries: the need for reform

Balance of payments, debt and macroeconomic stabilisation controversy: The balance of payment account; Financing and reducing payment deficits; The debt crisi of the 1980s; IMF stabilisation policies

Foreign finance, investment, and aid: controversies and opportunities. The international flow of financial resources; Private foreign direct investment and the multinational cooperation; Private portfolio investment; Foreign aid

Some critical issues for the twenty-first century: Global independence and the growth of developing world markets; The global environment; The crisis in sub-Saharan Africa; Globalisation and International financial reform

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Differentiate the various theoretical models used to explain economic development and uneven growth
2. Identify policy measures designed to alleviate economic problems faced by developing countries
3. Explain the increasing interdependence of the world economy in terms of food, energy, natural resources, technology, information and financial flows; coordinated approaches are necessary
4. Recognize the fact that problems of development should be treated from an institutional, structural and market perspective; relevant theories must always been combined with realistic institutional analyses
5. Classify common developing countries problems but also realise that such countries can be very different from each other

Course Contents

Four economic questions about global warming: How much pollution is too much? Is the Government up to the job? How can we do better? Can we resolve global issues?

Ethics and Economics: Utilitarism and social welfare functions as externalities

Pollution and resource degradation: the open access problem, the public goods problem. Case study: over fishing and aquaculture

The efficiency standard: efficiency pollution levels, the Coase theorem, the ethical basis for efficiency standard

The safety standard: the right to safety? Inefficient, not cost effective and regressive?

Sustainability: a neoclassical view and ecological view (net national welfare, natural capital depreciation, future benefits, costs and discounting, Malthus and ecological economics, measuring sustainability and the ecological versus neoclassical debate)

Measuring the benefits and costs of environmental protection (types of non market benefits, consumer surplus, risk assessment and perception, engineering costs, productivity and employment impacts of regulation and monopoly costs)

Is more really better? Consumption and welfare (money and happiness, social norms and rate race, positional goods and consumption externalities, welfare and social consumption)

Environmental regulation: the process of regulation, regulation under imperfect information, bureaucratic discretion and political influence

Monitoring and enforcement: the economics of crime and punishment, compliance record and cost effective enforcement

Incentive-based regulation: cost effectiveness and technological progress. Case study of the Carbon Dioxide Trading system in Europe

Promoting clean technologies: small scale and large scale technologies: case studies

Energy policy and the environment: electricity, heat and transport

Poverty, population and the environment: family size, population growth and the global environment. How to envisage a sustainable future?

Environmental policy in poor countries: damaging subsidies, property rights, resource conservation and debt relief

The economics of global agreements: monitoring and enforcement, biodiversity and global warming

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Identify four essential questions that need to be answered when analysing environmental problems (application of this framework to the problem of global warming)
2. Identify the issues of ethics and economics: review of concepts of utilitarism and social welfare functions
3. Distinguish the concepts of resource degradation and externalities; efficiency and safety standard and sustainability.
4. Analysis of consumption and welfare, analysis of environmental regulation, monitoring and enforcement
5. Appraise how incentive-based regulations work
6. Identify what are clean technologies
7. Recognise the interaction between energy policy and the environment
8. Determine why and how poverty, population and the environment are all interlinked
9. Identify environmental policy in the context of poor countries
10. Evaluate the economics of Global Agreements

Course Contents

I. Globalization and the world economic order

 
The nature of globalization: technological, institutional and structural changes in the world economy. Confrontation of opposing views on globalization: Why globalization works (M. Wolf) vs. Globalization and its discontents (J.Stiglitz). The role of institutions in the world economy. The rules of the world economic order, established in the second half of the 20th century. The IMF, the World bank, G-7, G-8, G-20. Critical assessment of “the rules of the game”. The controversies of sustainable development. Discussion of different approaches to the establishment of new rules of the world economic order.

II. The World’s financial crisis and the recession in the real sector

 
An overview of the financial crisis. Drying up investment. Critical assessment of financial and institutional solutions, offered in the EU and in the U.S. Discussion of imperatives and alternatives of the world economic recovery and growth.

 

III. The EU: Multiple European Problems and Challenges

 
The single European market and the multiple European problems and challenges. Short run vs. long run economic problems in the EU. Critical assessment of the Lisbon Agenda: goals, tools, and achievements. Europe 2020. Analysis of the merits and drawbacks of the European Monetary Union. The current sovereign debt crisis and the controversies of approaches to handle it. Case studies.

 

IV. The world’s markets for commodities

 
Characteristics of the world’s markets for commodities (crude oil, natural gas, grains and vegetable oils, etc). Discussion of technological and structural changes and their impact on the world’s markets for commodities. Assessment of pros and cons of prospective future developments.

 

V. Current Economic Issues of the Republic of Cyprus
Analysis of the crisis in the real estate market. Discussion of alternative solutions for negative externalities – the water problem, the issue of energy saving, etc. Other issues of the day

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Categorize the most acute contemporary economic problems and discuss their sources.
2. Examine the nature of globalization and confront the opposing views on its impact on welfare
3. Critically assess the role of institutions in the world economy and their constraints.
4. Compare and contrast different theoretical approaches to the contemporary financial crisis and the recession in the real sector.
5. Debate the merits and drawbacks of the European Monetary Union in relation to the current (2007-2012) debt crisis.
6. Evaluate the effectiveness of different approaches to face the current economic problems in Cyprus and globally, and arrive at a consistent personal point of view, assembling information and data to support it.

Course Contents

1.  Registrations for internships are handled at the departmental level with the cooperation of the Careers office and the Industry liaison office at Frederick University. . A departmental internship coordinator assists the student in designing the internship experience in various business disciplines such as; Marketing, Human Resources, Accounting & Finance, Operations etc..
2.  Close liaison should be attained between the university and the firm, institution, or agency in order to ensure that the aims and objectives of the program are fulfilled and a high-quality of internship is attained. For this purpose on-site visits may be carried out by the Internship coordinator to ensure that all conditions are fulfilled.
3.  A number of interim reports will be submitted to enable assess and evaluate the progress of the student. The reports which should also be signed by the work / department supervisor must show the basic skills the student is expected to develop (communication, working in groups and under time constraints) as well as the duties performed and their relevance to the theory gained in class.
Students will be required to submit a final report for assessment before a grade is given to them. The final report which should also be signed by the work / department supervisor should include an overview of the company, the structure of the company, a detailed reference to the  duties performed and their relevance to the theory gained in class, main problems faced as well as benefits gained at work.

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Integrate classroom knowledge and experience in an industrial, / practical setting in various businesses, government, or community-service work situations
2. Translate academic principles to action, to test career interests, and to develop skills and abilities through carefully planned and supervised programs related to the Business degree they are seeking.
3. Comprehend the contemporary turbulent and changing business environment.
4. Develop the appropriate communication skills necessary to communicate effectively with superiors, inferiors, colleagues and customers.
5. Work under pressure and within time constraints.
6. Learn to work in groups.
7. Expand and utilize the experience gained during their employment into a thesis project.

Course Contents

1.    Consumer Rule Ch. 1

a.        What is consumer behaviour?

b.       Consumer’s Impact on Marketing Strategy

c.        Marketing’s impact on consumers

d.       Marketing Ethics and Public Policy

e.        Consumer Behaviour as a field of Study

2.      Consumer Perception Ch. 2

a.       Sensory Systems

b.       Exposure

c.       Attention

3.   Learning and Memory Ch.3

a.       Behaviour Learning Theories

b.       Cognitive Learning Theory

c.       The Role of Memory in learning

4.     Personality and Lifestyles Ch. 6

a.       Personality

b.       Lifestyles and Psychographics

5.     Attitudes Ch. 7 & 8

a.       What are attitudes? Power and Functions

b.       The Standard Learning Hierarchy

c.       Forming Attitudes

d.       Attitude Model

e.       Elements of Communication

f.         Source

g.       Message

6.      Group Influence and opinion Leadership Ch. 11

a.      Reference groups

b.      Positive Vs Negative reference groups

7.   Income and Social Class Ch.12

a. Consumer Spending and Economic Behaviour

b. Discretionary Income

c. Social Class Structure

d. Components of Social Class

8.   Consumers and Sub-cultures Ch. 13 & 16

c.       Income and social class

d.       Consumer Spending and Economic Behaviour

e.       Cultural Influences on Consumer Behaviour

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Define consumer markets and Explain the concept of consumer behaviour .
2. Apply the theory of consumer behaviour in interpreting consumer behaviour in the market place.
3. Analyse the personal characteristics affecting consumer behaviour
4. Evaluate the various buying roles
5. Design promotional campaigns capitalising on consumer behaviour knowledge

Course Contents

CHAPTER 1- Changing Word of Sales Management

Overview of the Sales Person

Sales Management Process

Sales Management Trends

Effective Sales Managers

 

CHAPTER 2- Overview of Personal Selling

Building Long term Relationships

Contributions of Personal Selling

 

CHAPTER 3 – Organizational Strategies and the Sales Function

Customer Relationship Management

Marketing Strategy and Sales Force

Organizational Buyer Behaviour

 

CHAPTER 4 – Sales Organization Structure and Sales Force Development

Sales Organization Structures

Comparing Sales Organization Structures

 

CHAPTER 5 – Staffing the Sales Force: Recruitment & Selection

Importance of Recruitment and Selection

Recruitment and Selection Process

Legal and Ethical Considerations in Recruitment and Selection

 

CHAPTER 6 – Development of the Sales Force: Sales Training

Role of Sales Training in Sales force

Sales Training as a Crucial Investment

Ethical and Legal Issues

 

CHAPTER 7 – Sales Leadership

Contemporary Views of Sales Leadership

A Leadership Model for sales Management

Problems in Leadership

 

CHAPTER 8 – Motivation and Reward System

Types of Sales Force Rewards

Financial Compensation

Non Financial Compensation

Guidelines for Motivating and Rewarding Sales People

 

CHAPTER 9 – Evaluating the Performance of Sales People

Sales Person Performance Evaluations

 

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Recognize the importance/nature of sales management
2. Understand the complementary function of sales management in relation to the other promotional methods/tools.
3. Apply the theory of personal selling process.
4. Outline the concept of relationship selling. Outline the essential selling skills.
5. Evaluate the attributes of effective sales personnel and compare the various compensation methods.
6. Design effective sales presentations and plan for effective sales training schemes.

Course Contents

Introduction to Global Marketing 
Overview of Marketing; competitive advantage, globalization, global industries. Forces affecting Global Marketing (Ch. 1)

The Global Marketing Environment – Overview, Methods, tools and techniques used for identifying, analyzing and selecting international market opportunities.
Analyzing foreign market potential and opportunities. (Ch. 2-5)

Segmentation, Targeting and positioning
Global Market Segmentation
Assessing Market potential and Choosing Target Markets
Target Market Strategy
Positioning (Ch. 7)

Importing, Exporting and Sourcing
Organizational Export Activities (Ch. 7)

Examine different methods of entry into the international market place.
Licensing, Investment, and Strategic Alliances (Ch. 9)

The Global Marketing Mix
Product and Brand Decisions (Ch. 10)
Pricing for International Markets ; Factors Influencing International Pricing (Ch. 11)
Logistics and the International Distribution System; Channel of Distribution Structures, Factors affecting choice of channels (Ch. 12)
Global Marketing Communications – Global Advertising, Public Relations, Sales Promotions, Personal Selling and Direct / Internet Marketing. (Ch. 13)

Strategic Elements for Competitive Advantage

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Recall the main concepts relevant to international and global marketing.
2. Explain the complex environment as well as the marketing mix strategies in international and global marketing
3. Apply the gained knowledge, the concepts and the tools acquired in this course to better comprehend the global environment.
4. Evaluate the methods, tools, and techniques used for identifying and selecting international market opportunities and the methods for entry into the international marketplace.
5. Develop their own opinions as to how international product strategies should be formulated.

Course Contents

Chapter 1-Developing Marketing Strategies and Plans

The Central Role of Strategic Planning

Corporate and Division Strategic Planning

Business Unit Strategic Planning

Product Planning: The Nature and Process of a Marketing Plan

 

Chapter 2-Identifying Market Segments and Targets

Levels of Market Segmentation

Segmenting Consumers Markets

Bases for Segmenting Business markets

Market Targeting

 

Chapter 3-Creating Brand Equity

What is Brand Equity?

Building Brand Equity

Measuring Brand Equity

 

Chapter 4- Crafting the Brand Positioning

Developing and Communicating a Positioning Statement

Differentiation Strategies

Product Life Cycle Marketing Strategies

Market Evaluation

 

Chapter 5 – Dealing with Competition

 

Chapter 6-Setting Product Strategy

Product Characteristics and Classifications

Differentiation

Product and Brand Relationships

Packaging, Labeling, Warranties, and Guarantees

 

Chapter 7 – Designing and managing services

 

Chapter 8-Developing Pricing Strategies and Programs

Understanding Pricing

Adapting the Price

Initiating and Responding to Price Changes

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Recognise the need for new product development.
2. Explain the key decision areas when new products are developed.
3. Apply the concept/theory of new product development.
4. Outline the options available as far as branding is concerned, analyse the various packaging methods to be considered, use the various pricing methods.
5. Evaluate the various distribution options
6. Create new product offerings by applying all theoretical issues raised throughout this course.

Course Contents

1.  Defining Marketing for the Twenty-First Century

The Importance of Marketing

The Scope of Marketing

Core Marketing Concepts

The New Marketing Realities

Company Orientation toward the Marketplace

Marketing Management Tasks

2. Developing and Implementing Marketing Strategies and Plans

Marketing and Customer Value

Corporate and Division Strategic Planning

Business Unit Strategic Planning

The Marketing Plan and Marketing Performance

3. Creating Customer Value, Satisfaction and Loyalty

Building Customer Value and Satisfaction

Maximizing Customer Lifetime Value

Cultivating Customer Relationship

Customer Databases and Database Marketing

4. Identifying Market Segments and Targets

Levels of Market Segmentation

Segmenting Consumer and Business Marketing

5. Crafting the Brand Positioning and Dealing with Competition

Developing and Communicating a Positioning Strategy

Differentiation Strategies

Competitive Forces and Competitors

Analyzing Competitors

Competitive Strategies

6. Developing Pricing Strategies and Programs

Understanding Pricing

Setting the Price

Adapting the Price

Initiating and Responding to Price Changes

7. Managing Marketing in the Global Economy

Competing on a Global Basis

Internal Marketing

Managing the Marketing Process

Socially Responsible Marketing

8. Marketing Channels (Ch.7)

Number of Channel Levels

Vertical Vs Horizontal Marketing Systems

Marketing Logistics

9. Integrated Marketing Communications (Ch.8)

Promotion Mix

Integrated Marketing Communications

 

 

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Explain the basic theories and ideas of marketing management.
2. Apply the relevant marketing theories in real life examples (case studies).
3. Use this information together with knowledge gained from other business and Marketing courses to solve contemporary Marketing problems.
4. Examine current Marketing articles and compare and contrast the different points of view presented.
5. Evaluate these articles with respect to the main ideas, evidence, conclusions, credibility and importance.
6. Develop critical skills and ability to evaluate the use of different marketing tools and strategies

Course Contents

Management functions and skills (Chapter 12)

Four functions of management. Management skills.

Organization, teamwork and motivation (Chapter 13)

Designing en effective organisational structure. Organising the workforce. Working in teams, motivating employees

Human resources (Chapter 14)

Demographic challenges. Alternative work arrangements. Planning for company’s staffing needs. Working with labour unions.

Accounting and financial management (Chapter 7)

Understanding accounting, analysing financial statements, understanding financial management

Banking and securities (Chapter 8)

Money and financial institutions. Types of securities investments. Investments strategies and techniques. Analysing financial news.

Marketing concepts and strategies (Chapter 9)

Understanding today’s customers. Planning your marketing strategies.

Products and pricing (Chapter 10)

Characteristics of products. Product line and product-mix strategies.

Pricing strategies

Distribution and customer communication (Chapter 11)

Developing distribution strategies. Developing customer communication strategies.

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Analyse the various functional fields of management integrated within a strategic framework
2. Outline the strategic planning process
3. Explain the important of setting long-term goals and objectives
4. Summarize the main steps involved in the decision making process
5. Discuss the functions of a company’s organization structure
6. Explain the concepts of accountability, authority and delegation
7. Explain the challenges and advantages of a diverse workforce
8. State the basic accounting equation and explain the purpose of double-entry bookkeeping and the matching principle
9. Explain the purpose of ratio-analysis and list four main categories of financial ratios
10. Discuss the importance of establishing investment objectives and identify five factors to consider when making investment choices

Course Contents

Chapter 11 — Managing Teams: Groups and group development.  Stages of a group development. Turning groups into effective teams. Types of work teams. Current challenges in managing teams

Chapter 12 — Managing Change and Innovation: The change process.  Types of organizational change. Managing resistance to change. Techniques for reducing resistance to change. Stimulating innovation. Creativity versus innovation

Chapter 13 — Understanding Individual Behaviour: Focus and goals of individual behaviour. Attitudes and job performance. Job involvement and organizational commitment. Personality traits and personality insights. Perceptions. Factors that influence perception. Social learning

Chapter 14 — Managers and Communication: The nature and function of communication. Methods of interpersonal communication. Effective interpersonal communication. Overcoming barriers to communication. Organizational communication. How technology affects managerial communication

Chapter 15 — Motivating Employees: Early and contemporary theories of motivation. Current issue in motivation Cross-cultural challenges. Motivating unique groups of workers. From theory to practice: suggestions for motivating employees

Chapter 16 — Managers as Leaders: Who are leaders and what is leadership. Early leadership theories. Contingency theories of leadership. Contemporary views on leadership. Understanding gender differences and leadership

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Analyse the management functions of planning and decision-making, organizing, leading and controlling.
2. Identify and analyse how individuals would function in groups and how conflict emerges, and it is managed in organizations.
3. Describe the best practices influencing team performance
4. Choose and apply the different approaches available for effectively organising, motivating, leading, controlling and managing conflict within groups.
5. Demonstrate the importance of building organisational culture and its effect in management functions.
6. Describe techniques for stimulating innovation and managing change

Course Contents

Organisational diversity:
Diversity defined
Forces of change
Diversity management and high-involvement organisations
Roadblocks to diversity
Creating and managing diversity

Organisational behaviour in a global context:
Forces of globalisation
The globalisation experience for associates and managers
Opportunities for international participation
High-involvement management in the international context
Ethics in the international context

Work motivation:
The strategic importance of work motivation
Content theories of motivation
Process theories of motivation
Motivating associates: an integration of motivation theories

Stress and well-being:
Workplace stress defined
Two models of workplace stress
Organisational and work-related stressors
Individual influences on experiencing stress
Individual and organisational consequences of stress
Managing workplace stress

Communication:
The communication process
Communication within organisations
Interpersonal communication
Barriers to effective communication

Conflict, negotiation, power and politics:
The nature of conflict
Causes of conflict
Conflict escalation and outcome
Negotiation
Power
Organisational politics

Organisational change and development:
Pressures for organisational change
Planned change
Organisational development

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Identify the links between behavioural management and organisational performance
2. Recognise the relevance of managing people and integrate these concepts with knowledge gained in other core business course
3. Appreciate why human capital is one of the most important asset to an organisation
4. Analyse how organisations can build culture, communication and leadership to improve performance
5. Examine with empirical example how to effectively manage behaviour in organisations

ABSO304: Διοικητική Επιστήμη Ι

Course Contents

Network diagrams, critical path analysis, project scheduling with certain and uncertain activity times. Economic and time programming.

Considering Time-Cost trade-offs.  Crashing activity times.  Linear programming models for crashing decisions.

Decision tree analysis -Tree diagrams and payoff tables. Decision making without probabilities (optimistic, pessimistic and minima regret approaches), Decision making with probabilities.  Sensitivity analysis.  Expected value of perfect information.

Game theory.  Matrix games, strategies, optimum strategies and the value of the game.  Strictly determined games.  2X2 matrix games.  2xM and Mx2 games.  Graphical method, MxM games.

Inventory control systems, EOQ model.  Economic production lot size.  Inventory models with planned shortages.  Quantity discounts for the EOQ model

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Draw, understand network diagrams and apply critical path analysis and project scheduling with fixed or uncertain activity times.
2. Apply crashing activity times using linear programming models for the crashing decisions.
3. Understand and explain decision tree analysis -tree diagrams and payoff tables. Apply and analyse decision making without probabilities (optimistic, pessimistic and minima regret approaches)
4. Apply and interpret decision making with probabilities and perform sensitivity analysis. Calculate and explain the expected value of perfect information
5. Understand Game theory. Matrix games, strategies, optimum strategies and the value of the game. Strictly determined games. 2X2 matrix games. 2xM and Mx2 games.
6. Understand, apply and interpret Inventory control systems, EOQ model, Economic production lot size, and Inventory models with planned shortages.
7. Apply, analyse and synthesize the above concepts in business related problems.

Course Contents

Innovation in the making:

·        Types of innovation

·        Sources of innovation

·        Theories of innovation

·        Networks of innovators

·        Organizational innovation

·        Measuring innovation

·        Innovation and intellectual propertyrights

The Systemic nature of innovation:

·        Systems of innovation

·        Innovation clusters

·        National systems of innovation

·        Regional systems of innovation

How innovation differs:

·        Sectoral systems of innovation: whyinnovations differ across sectors?

·        Innovation in “Low Tech” industries

·        Innovation in services

·        Innovation diffusion

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Understanding processes that lead to the creation of innovations, with particular focus on firms and networks.
2. Providing an account of the wider systematic setting influencing innovation and the role of institutions and organizations in this context.
3. Focusing on the consequences of innovation with respect to economic growth, international competitiveness, and employment.

Course Contents

1.    Opportunity recognition for a new business venture

2.    Reasons for writing a business plan

3.    Feasibility analysis for a new business idea

4.    Industry analysis

5.    Market analysis

6.    Developing the right marketing mix and marketingplan

7.    Management team and structure

8.    Operations plan and product (service) developmentplan

9.    Managing start-up, fixed and variable cost,pro-forma financial statements, break-even analysis, cash flow analysis.

10.  Presenting the business planwith confidence

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

Course Contents

Managers’ responsibilities and the natural environment:

Models and principles in environmental management theory.

Techniques and methodologies of environmental impact assessment

Uncertainty and the assessment of risks and hazards to the environment

Integrated resource management

Environmental Strategic Management, Environmental Operations Management,

Environmental Planning, Green Politics and Economics.

Environmental management in the private sector

Socio-economic, political and managerial responsibilities

Case study of environmental pollution: private and public responses

The principles applied to successful environmental management

Part 1: Theory and Approaches of Environmental Management

Part 2: Resource Management and Environmental Management Issues

Water, Coastal and Island Resources

Agriculture, Land Degradation and Food Security

Biodiversity Resources

Atmospheric Issues

Urban Environments and Industrial Pollution Issues

Environmental Threats

Part 3: Environmental Management Tools and Policies

Environmental Management Methods, Tools and Techniques

Environmental Accounting, Greening Economics and Business

Environmental Management and Development.

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Understand a wide range of management methods and techniques for risk analysis, participatory planning and decision-making.
2. Examine the principles of environmental management in a wide range of situations, both on regional and business scales.
3. Assess the consequences of environmental interventions and appreciate the ecosystem approach to environmental management
4. Understand the current scientific opinions and practices on the effects of pollutants on ecological and human environments.
5. Develop conceptual models from desk study information and acquire a basic understanding of key components of the environmental systems analysis

Course Contents

The Corporation in Society

The Corporation and Its Stakeholders

Stakeholder theory and analysis

 

Business and the Social Environment

Corporate Social Responsibility

The history of corporate social responsibility

The debate on balancing economic, legal and social responsibilities

The evolving notion of corporate responsibilities

 

Business and the Ethical Environment

Ethics & Ethical Reasoning

The meaning of ethics

The core elements of ethical character

Analysing ethical problems in business

 

Business and Government in a Global Society

The Challenges of Globalisation

The process of globalization, benefits and costs

Doing business in a diverse world

Global codes of corporate conduct and collaborative partnership for global problems

 

The Corporation and the Natural Environment

Ecology and Sustainable

Ecological challenges

Global environmental issues

Responses of the international business community

 

Business and Technological Change

Technology: A Global Economic & Social Force

The explosive force of technology

The emergence of high technology business

The Internet

Socially beneficial uses of technology

 

Managing Technological Challenges

Business protecting privacy

The management of information security

Protecting intellectual property

Managing scientific breakthrough

 

Building Relationships with Stakeholders

The Community and the Corporation

The business-Community relationship

Community relationships

Corporate giving

 

Business and the Media

Public relations

Ethical and social responsibilities of public relations managers

 

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. To identify that business and society are an interactive system; companies have social responsibility and should act ethically
2. Recognise that globalisation poses new challenges such as environmental or technological ones
3. Assess the role of companies in communities including corporate philanthropy
4. Analyse the ethical dimension of media relations and advertisement

Course Contents

Dividend policy: The dividend process, factors affecting dividend levels and changes, information in dividends and stock repurchases, and the dividend  controversy

Portfolio theory: Means, variances and correlations of assets based on historical returns or scenarios , portfolio expected returns and volatility , the concept of diversification, feasible investment set, minimum variance set and efficient set, investor preferences in mean-variance space, the capital allocation between risk-free rate and risky portfolios

Financing and the cost of capital Miller-Modigliani theory of the capital structure and the tax advantage of debt, the weighted average cost of capital (WACC) approach for firm valuation using CAPM, unlevered and levered betas, capital structure theories

Understanding and valuing options: Definitions of common options contracts and their use, payoff diagrams for common option contracts and combinations of options, put-call parity, call and put option contracts using Black-Scholes and binomial trees, sensitivity analysis to option values, application of option theory to corporate investment decisions (real options)

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Describe the alternative theories of dividend policy and show the dividend irrelevancy argument with numerical examples
2. Calculate mean, variances and correlations between assets, portfolio expected returns and explain the concept of diversification
3. Explain and show graphically the feasible set, minimum variance set, and efficient set and explain capital allocation between risk-free and risky assets
4. Calculate the value of the firm with debt financing using the weighted average cost of capital and the CAPM model
5. Describe the characteristics of options and derive payoff diagrams of options
6. Calculate financial options value using Black and Scholes formula and using binomial trees
7. Apply option theory to value corporate investment decisions under uncertainty

Course Contents

Mergers and Acquisitions: economies of scale, economies of vertical integration and other efficiency gains arising from mergers and acquisitions , type of growth opportunities achieved through mergers and acquisitions, dubious reasons for mergers and acquisitions, valuation of merged businesses having different capital structures

Forwards and Futures: definitions, examples of using forwards and futures for hedging risk , valuation of forwards and futures on stocks or stock indices with/without dividends, forwards and futures on foreign currency , valuation of commodity futures, the cost-of-carry and convenience yield, differences between forward and future contracts

Option pricing theory: basic no arbitrage restrictions for options and put-call parity, dividends and optimal early exercise of American options, risk-neutral pricing and the derivation of binomial tree parameters for option pricing, binomial trees for pricing of options of various types

Risk management: risk management using options and futures, delta hedging and other Greeks, swaps and interest rate risk

Application of option pricing theory in the valuation of corporate assets and liabilities: Merton’s model for the valuation of equity and risky debt and credit spreads, sensitivity analysis on Merton’s model, extensions of Merton’s model with endogenous default

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Explain sensible and dubious motives for mergers and acquisitions and apply valuation methods for mergers with different capital structures
2. List the characteristics of forwards and futures, explain their use
3. Explain the no arbitrage argument and the valuation of forwards and futures
4. Explain risk-neutral valuation method for the pricing of options.
5. Appraise different types of options using binomial trees and analytic methods
6. Explain the importance of risk management and apply risk management tools based on option theory in practice
7. Apply option pricing theory for the valuation of firms corporate assets and liabilities

Course Contents

An overview of financial markets: The investment environment and distinction between real and financial assets, the players of the financial system (households, business and government sector) and their role, the money market, the bond and derivative market structure and their role, the security trading process, mutual funds and other investment companies

Portfolio theory: Means, variances and correlations of assets, feasible investment set, minimum variance set and efficient set, investor preferences in mean-variance space and the concept of diversification, portfolio optimization and optimal capital allocation

Stock Valuation and market efficiency: dividend discount model, Discounted free cash flow approach and CAPM, implications of market efficiency under its different forms

Derivatives and their use: the characteristics of derivative securities , different types of derivative securities and their use,risk management use of derivative securities

Fixed income securities: List of bond characteristics, different types of government and corporate bonds
, option provisions embedded in bond contracts
, present value formulas for bond pricing, the term-structure of interest rates and interest uncertainty, managing bond portfolios based on duration and immunization

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Describe of the investment environment, markets and institutions
2. Apply portfolio theory analysis using expected returns, risk and explain the concept of diversification
3. Calculate the value of stocks using alternative models based on dividend and future free cash flows and use traditional models of optimal capital structure.
4. Explain and apply the theory of market efficiency in different settings
5. Describe other types of financial instruments like forwards, futures and swaps and their role in hedging risk
6. Explain the characteristics of fixed-income securities and the impact of different forms of uncertainty affecting fixed-income securities

Course Contents

Introduction to International finance: multinational firm, exchange rate risk, political risk, interest rate risk , goals of international financial management and risk management , national income accounting and the balance of payments, effect of national debt and its effect on import/export industries , the link between balance of payments imbalances and exchange rates under fixed and floating exchange rate regimes , main historical developments of the international monetary environment, current monetary environment and the reasons for major international financial crises

Valuation of forwards, futures and options: No arbitrage conditions and rational prices for forward and future contracts, currency forwards contract pricing, forward, spot and expected currency prices and home and foreign interest rates, no-arbitrage theory and the valuation of simple currency options and Quantos

Exchange rate determination and the link with interest rates, prices and economic policy: The Law of One price and absolute and relative purchasing parity, international version of Fisher Effect connecting inflation, real and nominal interest rates of different countries, empirical evidence for purchasing power parity theory and explanations, interest rate parity, expected inflation differences and expected changes in the exchange rates, covered interest arbitrage, short run equilibrium in the product and asset markets and the effects of temporary and permanent shifts in monetary and fiscal policy

Managing foreign exchange rate and interest rate exposure: Risks involved in international operations in different industries, forward, futures and option contracts to hedge currency risk with examples in different industries, swaps and interest rate risk

Foreign investment decisions and the cost of capital of international operations: types of entity for foreign operations and possible barriers to entry to foreign direct investment, implications of political risk on the overseas investment decision, international cost of capital using international version of the CAPM, adjusted present value for international investment decisions, taxation in the international enviroment

Learning Outcomes of the course unit

By the end of the course, the students should be able to:

1. Describe the risks and goals of the multinational firm and the fundamentals of the international financial system and national accounts
2. Explain the valuation of currency forwards, futures and options and the connection between home and foreign interest rates and futures prices
3. Explain the economic relationship between interest rates, inflation and exchange rate and the effect of fiscal and monetary policy in short run economic variables
4. Explain the effect of currency risk in different industries and the use of forwards and futures to hedge this risk
5. Use capital structure theory adjusted for the international firm for the calculation of the cost of capital of international projects, explain the issues involved in international investment and capital structure decisions