New curriculum development in operations management

Abstract

Operations management is growing in importance as an advanced studies discipline in Business and Management Schools and Departments. The structured masters program has particular appeal to working professionals with a business or engineering background. Structured masters programs in different areas of Management will serve as vital training for a young South African population preparing to engage in the 4th industrial revolution. Communication advances, particularly in information technology, have escalated the use of online and blended approaches to curriculum delivery. This research focuses on the design and implementation plan of a structured operations management program at the Masters level. It draws on an analysis of existing taught Masters programs at Tshwane University of Technology as well as an examination of best practices on an international level. This study also considers how the 4th industrial revolution should be addressed through curriculum content and delivery. Alternatives are presented regarding the best approach, considering time and resource restrictions.