University of Canterbury
Department of Management

Christchurch

Canterbury MBA

Start Date: Feb                    Length: 15 months FT; up to 60 months PT

First offered: 1984

Fees, excludes texts:         Domestic          $26,451   

                                            Non-domestic   $40,455      

Objectives

To provide graduates who have strong intellectual capabilities and strong leadership abilities, with the knowledge and understanding, as well as the skills, tools, and confidence, to make the transition to senior managerial and leadership positions mainly for the NZ economy.

We seek to develop:
  • an in-depth understanding in all functions required to lead an enterprise and how they fit together,
  • the practical skills and personal qualities required of senior leaders,
  • excellence so that our graduates can function both nationally and internationally.

Particular strengths or unique aspects
  • integrated programme with three basic components: basic disciplines, elective courses, and applied project
  • a strong team environment. Group membership changes each term providing an opportunity to work with nearly all class members.
  • up to forty percent of assessed work is team-based. Expertise is shared to develop the understanding of other team members.
  • family oriented, emphasis on learning, having fun and having a life while doing the MBA.
  • less ego-driven MBA environment.

Typical graduate qualities

  • operate effectively with and upon a body of knowledge at depth.
  • effective and innovative problem solver, capable of applying logical, critical and creative thinking to a range of situations.
  • skilled in the art and science of leadership.
  • works both autonomously and collaboratively.
  • communicates effectively in a professional environment and as a member of the wider community.
  • capable of operating within an entrepreneurial SME environment as well as within a larger structured corporate context.
  • prepared for lifelong learning in pursuit of professional and personal development and in professional excellence.
  • committed to ethical action and social responsibility.
  • demonstrates an international perspective.

Teaching Methods and assessment
  • case studies used extensively providing an opportunity to practise analytical techniques and experience of committing to a course of action.
  • students visit Christchurch organizations, work through simulation exercises, and investigate immediate organizational issues.
  • business leaders share their experiences with the class.
  • assessment is based on group and individual analysis of case studies, written assignments, presentations, and participation in class and examinations.
Participation of business and/or government sectors

Involvement through:
  • Governance of the Programme - a serving MP (alumnus) as well as an alumna in private business on the 7 member MBA Programme Board.
  • Advisory Panel - a 13 member Advisory Panel made up from business and government representatives that advise the Director
  • Curriculum structure - Extensive input and advice is obtained from these sectors with designing curricula and determining content.
  • Teaching - Guest lecturers, seminar leaders and guest speakers
  • Projects - It is a requirement that the integrative project be sponsored by either a business or government entity.
  • Student body - Our students originate mostly from the business and government sectors.
  • In 2005, a specific elective on government and business was taught by politicians, government officials, lobbyists and advisors.
  • From 2006, a specific elective on engaging local business will be offered

In 2009
 
   
   
 

 

 
Number of faculty teaching  20 Classroom hours   432
Entering students  36 Students enrolled   64

Graduating students                      21      Total NZ Graduates                   645

Accreditation                              

AMBA (UK)                                 accredited

EQUIS (Europe)                          not accredited
AACSB (USA)                              not accredited