The uncertainties and the dynamic environment within which businesses operate today present serious challenges for business leaders.  The growth in economic and social needs in most economies also constitutes another great challenge.  As students proceed beyond the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) level, preparing to pursue their career goals, they must be cognisant of the changing socio-economic climate within which modern businesses operate.

Management of Business students must understand the principles that govern the human and operational interactions within a business.  Also, Management of Business students must be aware of how a business operates within a society. Moreover, it is imperative that the Caribbean management student possesses a comprehensive understanding of the markets in the region, in addition to knowledge of the global marketplace.

The CAPE Management of Business syllabus provides opportunities for students to develop the required knowledge and understanding of management principles and practices.  The syllabus also equips students with the basic skills required to address managerial problems and challenges faced by businesses.  These skills will enable students o function not only in existing business organisations, but also as independent entrepreneurs.  Additionally, the syllabus prepares students to access management training at the tertiary level.

In designing this syllabus, a comprehensive approach to management has been adopted.  However, special attention was given to ensuring that the aims of the syllabus are realisable within the time frame available for this course.

The syllabus aims to:

• Develop and understanding of the integrated nature of business organisations and the environment in which they operate;
• Develop an awareness of how global issues impact on the development of business organisations with special reference to the Caribbean;
• Provide basic information about knowledge of principles, legal issues, and practices of modern management with special reference to the Caribbean;
• Develop critical thinking skills that involve analysis, evaluation, decision making and problem solving;
• Develop an understanding of the importance of management of people;
• Develop skills in communicating information effectively in numerical, graphical and verbal form;
• Provide opportunities to acquire knowledge and understanding of practical decision-making;
• Provide opportunities for acquisition of prerequisite knowledge and skills necessary to pursue further studies and career development in the field;
• Provide knowledge and skills needed to become successful entrepreneurs;
• Develop attitudes, values, and ethical practices related to business;
• Develop an appreciation of the need for organisations and individuals to act as responsible citizens.

The syllabus is arranged into two Units.  Each Unit consists of three Modules, each Module requiring 50 contact hours.

Unit 1: Management Principles and Processes

• Module 1: Business and its Environment
• Module 2: The Management of People
• Module 3: Business Finance and Accounting

Unit 2: Application in Management

• Module 1: Production and Operations Management
• Module 2: Fundamentals of Marketing
• Module 3: Small Business Management