Introduction

This is a unique course developed by individuals who work within communities as active change makers. The course operates as a study group, in which peers come together to share experiences and also best practice.

Grounded in the educational philosophy of Paulo Freire, action refection praxis is used as a basis for learning, allowing students to take new theoretical concepts and also critically challenge them within their own communities. It also explores the management concepts of the community educator Mary Parker Follett, whose ideas are still hugely pertinent today.

Staff engaged in the delivery of the programme are all internationally recognised practitioners, who also share their knowledge on a peer-to-peer basis and support learners in developing new and innovative solutions to current issues.

Most modules are delivered at the Burnley Campus or through blended web-based learning.

Course Overview

The programme is designed to develop highly transferable skills in community analysis, management and leadership with an applied context. Core themes relate to politics and governance, faith, gender, global society, and also community resilience. Students will also be eligible for an optional exit award in Strategic Leadership at Level 7 (may incur an extra charge) from the Institute of Leadership and Management. Through the Interfaith Dialogue route there may be a field visit to an international destination – usually Cordoba in Spain – subject to availability and for an additional charge. Further international visits and collaborations may be available at the discretion of the course tutor.

Course Structure

Course material is presented in a series of lectures, discussions, guided group activities, case studies and also individual study elements supported by paper based and online course materials.

• Students who successfully complete three taught modules are eligible for the Postgraduate Certificate Award (PGCert).
• Those who successfully complete six modules are eligible for a Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip).
• Successful completion of a dissertation leads to the award of an MA.

The course is available part-time and following a flexible teaching pattern. Lectures are published weekly online with students attending full day seminars once a month.

Modules include:

• Understanding Equality and Community Practice
• Leadership: Theory, Practice and Reflection
• Community and Practice-Based Research
• Community Research project
• Global Project Development
• Interfaith Dialogue and Contemporary Society
• Gender and Community Leadership
• Community Resilience
• Professional Writing and Communication

Entry Requirements
A first degree in a related subject or equivalent experience.