Leading and Developing Services

Leading and Developing Services is a specialised postgraduate programme designed to equip professionals with the innovative skills and strategic insights necessary to excel in the dynamic world of service management. This course aims to develop your leadership capabilities, enabling you to successfully manage and enhance complex service operations across various industries, including hospitality, healthcare, retail, and public services. Throughout the programme, students will explore core concepts such as customer experience, operational excellence, strategic planning, and digital transformation, fostering a comprehensive understanding of how to lead service development initiatives effectively.

The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, encouraging students to engage in real-world projects, case studies, and collaborative work that mirror industry challenges. Emphasis is placed on developing analytical and problem-solving skills, empowering graduates to identify opportunities for improvement and implement innovative solutions tailored to specific organisational contexts. Additionally, the programme offers modules on leadership and team management, change management, and business strategy, ensuring that students are well-prepared to take on senior roles within their organisations.

Faculty members delivering this programme are experienced industry practitioners and academic experts, providing students with insights grounded in both research and practical expertise. The programme benefits from Bournemouth University's strong links with industry partners, offering networking opportunities, internships, and live project work that enhances employability upon graduation. The course is suitable for early career professionals seeking to advance their managerial skills, as well as for experienced managers aiming to update their knowledge in service development and leadership.

Graduates of this programme will be equipped to take on leadership roles in service organisations, driving innovation and improving customer satisfaction. They will also have the skills to develop strategic initiatives, manage teams effectively, and respond to the evolving demands of a competitive marketplace. Upon completion, students will receive a postgraduate qualification that supports career progression in various sectors where effective service management is critical. The programme is committed to fostering a proactive, innovative mindset among its students, preparing them to lead and develop services that deliver exceptional value and sustainable growth.

The Leading and Developing Services program at Bournemouth University is designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required to excel in the dynamic and competitive world of service management. This comprehensive course focuses on the development of strategic leadership capabilities, innovative service design, and operational excellence across a variety of industries, including hospitality, healthcare, financial services, and retail. Throughout the program, students will engage with a blend of theoretical frameworks and practical applications, fostering a deep understanding of how to lead service organizations effectively in a rapidly changing environment.

The curriculum covers critical topics such as service innovation and entrepreneurship, customer experience management, digital transformation, and sustainable service development. Students will learn how to analyze complex service systems, design customer-centric solutions, and implement innovative strategies that add value for both organizations and consumers. Emphasis is also placed on leadership skills, change management, and team development, enabling graduates to motivate and guide personnel towards achieving organizational objectives.

Throughout their studies, students will benefit from a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, case studies, group projects, and real-world industry placements. These experiences provide opportunities to apply theoretical concepts in practical settings, developing problem-solving skills and adaptability. The program also fosters critical thinking, effective communication, and ethical decision-making, preparing students to lead with integrity and confidence in diverse service environments.

Besides gaining in-depth industry knowledge, students will have access to Bournemouth University’s extensive network of industry partners and alumni, offering valuable internship opportunities, mentorship, and professional development resources. The program's focus on innovation and sustainable service practices ensures graduates are well-prepared to contribute to the future growth and evolution of the service sector, both locally and globally. Upon completion, graduates will possess the strategic insight and practical skills necessary to assume leadership roles, manage service excellence, and drive continuous improvement within their organizations.

Programme requirements for Leading and Developing Services at Bournemouth University typically include a combination of academic qualifications, relevant work experience, and personal attributes. Applicants are usually expected to hold a good honours degree or equivalent in a relevant discipline such as management, business studies, public administration, or related fields. For those whose first language is not English, proof of proficiency through tests like IELTS with a minimum score of 6.0 overall, with at least 5.5 in each component, is generally required. Experience in leadership or management roles within service industries can be beneficial, although specific work experience requirements may vary depending on the applicant’s academic background. The programme is designed to develop strategic thinking, leadership capabilities, and the ability to manage change effectively within service organizations. Therefore, applicants should demonstrate motivation and the potential for success in advanced management studies. Personal statements are often a critical part of the application process, highlighting relevant experience, career goals, and reasons for choosing the programme. Some applicants might also be invited to interview or provide references to support their application. Additionally, prior business or management-related coursework or certifications could strengthen an application. The university emphasizes diversity and inclusion, welcoming applicants from various backgrounds and experiences. All candidates are assessed individually, considering their academic achievements, professional experience, and potential contribution to the learning community. Entry requirements may occasionally be flexible for exceptional candidates displaying significant leadership experience or exceptional motivation.

Financing studies for the Leading and Developing Services program at Bournemouth University are designed to provide students with comprehensive support options and clear guidance on funding opportunities. Students are encouraged to explore a variety of financing sources, including government loans, scholarships, bursaries, and external funding options. The university offers specific scholarships for postgraduate students, which are awarded based on academic merit and potential contributions to the field. Additionally, students may consider applying for the UK government’s postgraduate loans scheme, which provides eligible students with financial assistance to cover tuition fees and living costs. Bournemouth University also offers guidance on how to access private loans and funding from external organizations, as well as advice on budgeting and financial planning throughout the course duration.

Financial support is also available through the university’s dedicated student finance team, which provides personalized advice and assistance to help students manage their finances effectively. Students are encouraged to seek early advice to understand the various costs involved, including tuition fees, accommodation, insurance, and study-related expenses. The program's fees are published annually on the university's official website and vary based on the student’s residency status, with international students typically paying higher fees than UK residents. Bournemouth University also offers flexible payment plans to make the financial commitments more manageable for students.

For international students, additional funding options such as international scholarships, partnership grants, and research funding are available. The university maintains active links with industry partners, which sometimes offer sponsorship opportunities or employer-funded study schemes. To support students financially, Bournemouth University regularly updates its online resources with the latest information on available funding, eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and the application process. Overall, the university aims to make financial planning as transparent and accessible as possible, helping students to focus on their academic and professional development without undue financial stress.

Leading and Developing Services is a dynamic and comprehensive programme offered by Bournemouth University designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required to lead and develop modern service organizations. The programme focuses on strategic management, leadership skills, innovation, and service development within various sectors, including healthcare, social care, and private service industries. Students will explore innovative approaches to service delivery, learn how to implement change effectively, and develop the ability to lead diverse teams in complex and evolving environments. The curriculum includes modules on service management, leadership theories, business development, and strategic decision-making, ensuring graduates are prepared to assume senior roles and make substantial contributions to their organizations. The course emphasizes practical skills through case studies, group projects, and real-world problem solving, fostering a participative learning environment. Additionally, students will have access to industry placements and networking opportunities to build professional connections and gain firsthand experience. The programme aims to produce graduates who are confident in driving service improvements and capable of managing teams successfully in competitive markets. It also emphasizes the importance of ethical practice, sustainability, and understanding stakeholder needs, aligning with current industry standards and societal expectations. Upon completion, students will be well-equipped to pursue careers in service management, consultancy, policy development, and leadership roles across various sectors. Overall, the Leading and Developing Services programme offers a rigorous academic foundation complemented by practical application, preparing students to become influential leaders in service industries.