MPH5281 Management theory and practice

The overall aim of this unit is to introduce experienced managers, clinicians and researchers working in healthcare to the key principles of management theory, and how these may directly apply to management practice in a healthcare setting. In the current era of evidence-based practice, a sound knowledge of management theory supported by evidence is essential for managers and clinicians of the future to succeed as healthcare leaders.

In this unit, students will explore the concepts of leadership and management, group and team functioning, motivating staff including through appropriate job design, frameworks of conflict management and decision-making, and the importance of navigating organisational culture including power and politics in successful leadership. These concepts will be explored from case studies arising both within and external to the health sector, and students' understanding will be developed through reflection on the relevance and application of these theories to their work role and organisation.