This module will present students with the concepts and principles of career planning and management in the context of the contemporary world of work. Students will explore their skills, values and personality. They will also investigate employment and further development opportunities available to postgraduates. These will form the basis for their career choices. They will research possible career options using various sources - and then they will consider how their skills values and personality match up to their career aspirations. Students will be introduced to the skills required to make effective applications in a variety of formats. They will also consider how to plan and prepare for a variety of selection processes, including the selection interview, psychometric testing and participation in Assessment Centres. They will write a plan of action, explaining how they will make their career plans happen. Students will also be expected to critically review contemporary issues related to student careers and employability.

The learning strategy of this module requires students to commit to 150 learning hours. 3 x 2 hour lectures will introduce the subject area and use of the Blackboard Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). In addition, there will be the opportunity for students to arrange individual consultations to monitor progress in building their `Career Management' portfolio. Students will be encouraged to visit Staffordshire University Careers' Service to discuss their options with a Careers' Advisor and to access materials in the Careers' library. The VLE will provide a comprehensive guide to the materials required for portfolio evidence. To develop and support underpinning knowledge, the VLE will also provide a range of materials to assist students with self-directed study. The VLE will also provide the opportunity for the development of reflection and analysis in relation to the management of careers and employability in the contemporary world of work. Students will also be expected to engage in self-directed study, researching and reviewing relevant texts.

1. A Portfolio, weighted at 70%, covering:

Self Development: Analysis and evidence of the student's career-related skills. (Learning Outcome 1)
Career Exploration: Consideration of, and in depth research into career opportunities and comparison with own skills (Learning Outcomes 2 and 3)
Career Management: Applications in a variety of formats, planning and preparation for a range of selection methods. (Learning Outcomes 4 and 5)
Career Management and Employability: Evaluation of career plans to produce a plan of action relating to careers and employability (Learning Outcome 6).

2. An Assignment of 1,000 words, weighted at 30%, relating to Career Management and Employability in the contemporary world of work.
(Learning Outcome 7)

Blackboard VLE
Library services, internet and e.mail, PC with Office software, website links, lectures and lecture notes, case studies, recommended texts and journals, tutorials

Baruch, Y. (2004) Managing Careers. London: FT/Prentice Hall.
Michelli, D. (2005) Make it Happen: How to get ahead and be happy at work. Bloomsbury
Reaching your potential ¿ Harvard Business review Vol 86 No7/8 July/August 2008 pp.45-49