In a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies)/VISA interview for students

applying for a Master's in Research in Management at a UK university, the focus will

likely be on confirming your genuine intent to study, your understanding of the
course, your academic background, and your future plans. Below are some probable
questions and suggested approaches for answering them:

Pls tell me about your self/Introduce youself.

Ans: My name is Manzur Elahi Al Hossain. I was born and raised in Dhaka,
the capital city of Bangladesh. Unfortunately, my parents are no longer
with us. I did my MBA in Marketing from University Of South Asia
Bangladesh in 2021. I am married and have one child. My child is a 4-
year-old son. My wife used to be a school teacher, but she is now fully
dedicated to raising our kid.

I have been working for almost 20 years across various industries,

including telecommunications, consumer goods, ice cream, food, and
construction, in different capacities. I am now planning to pursue a
Masters in Research at the University of Central Lancashire. This degree
will help me secure a management-level position in my home country.
Additionally, I aspire to become a part-time lecturer at a private university
in Bangladesh.

About your programme

1. What modules you will study ?

Ans: The Master's of Research (MRes) in Management at the University of

Central Lancashire (UCLan) is for 1 year for full time international student
and total 180 credit. includes the following core modules:

1. Critical Issues in Business and Management Research (BM4100): This

module focuses on assessing and analyzing business and management
research disciplines, including their impact on organizational policy and
society.

2. Research Methods (BM4101): This module is designed to develop core

research skills relevant to business and management, preparing you to
conduct your own research project.

3. Research Project (BM4102): This module allows you to apply the

knowledge gained from previous modules to conduct an independent
research project in a business or management area of your choice, under
the guidance of a supervisor.

4. Dissertation: The core of the MRes program, where students undertake

an independent research project in a management-related area of their
choice.
This program is designed to develop my research capabilities, preparing
me for a career in academia or advanced roles in the management field.

These modules are structured to provide both theoretical and practical

insights into research, making the program suitable for those looking to
advance in academia or enhance their research capabilities within the
workplace.

2. What will be the teaching method of the course? / What will be the
structure of the course?

Ans: The teaching methodology for the MRes in Management at the

University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) is structured to provide a flexible
yet comprehensive learning experience. Here's a more detailed
breakdown:

1. Block Teaching: The program starts with two intense courses, allowing
students to focus deeply over a short time. This format is ideal for those
with other commitments, like work or family.

2. Research Focus: After the courses, students work on a major research

project, which is the main part of the MRes program a “Dissertation”. The
project can be business-related or academic.

3. Personalized Supervision: Students receive one-on-one guidance from

faculty during their research to help with their project.

4. Flexible Learning: The program is designed to be flexible, making it

suitable for those with jobs or other responsibilities.

The teaching in this program focuses on helping students think

independently and critically. It also gives them the skills they need to do
well in both academic and professional research.

3. How will you be assessed?

Ans: In the MRes in Management program at the University of Central

Lancashire (UCLan), assessment is primarily based on the following:

1. Coursework: This includes assignments and essays from the taught

modules, where students are assessed on their understanding of research
methodologies, critical analysis, and application of theoretical concepts.

2. Research Project: The major component of assessment is the

independent research project. Students must submit a dissertation or
research report that demonstrates their ability to conduct original
research. The project is evaluated on the quality of research, analysis, and
the ability to draw meaningful conclusions.
3. Oral Presentations and Viva Voce: Students may be required to
present their research findings and defend their research methodology
and conclusions during a viva voce (oral examination).

These methods ensure that students are assessed on both their academic
knowledge and practical research skills, preparing them for future
academic or professional roles.

4. Who is your program leader ?

Ans: Dr. Rami Salem and Philip Kostov are involved in overseeing
postgraduate research degrees within the School of Business, and they
might be key contacts for research-related queries.

5. Why did you choose this course and university?

Ans: I chose the Master's in Research in Management because of my

strong interest in Critical Issues in Business and Management Research.
My MBA in Marketing has given me deep insights into the marketing
domain, closely linked to my previous job experiences. However, as I now
aspire to become a Research Consultant in a top management position at
a multinational company, I believe that this research-focused program will
be crucial in bridging the gap between academic knowledge and practical
industry applications.

UCLan’s strong research culture and the expertise of its management

faculty align perfectly with my academic and career aspirations. Moreover,
in addition to my strategic management career, I also aim to become a
part-time faculty member at a reputable private university in my home
country. This program will equip me with the necessary research skills and
knowledge to achieve both of these professional goals.

6. In your own words, please provide three reasons you chose this
university?

Ans:

Reason 1: The university has extensive connections with the business and
management industry, from where I can get a maximum benefit. I will also
have complete access to workshops, seminars, and various networking
opportunities.

Reason 2: In addition to academic excellence, the university offers strong

support to international students in achieving their career goals. The
research staff has work opportunity with leading global organizations such
as the UN, WHO, and the European Space Agency.
Reason 3: UCLan is located in Preston, one of the most affordable cities in
the UK. This affordability will be a significant factor during my master’s
program.

7. How does this course align with your career goals?

Ans: This course is directly aligned with my career aspirations of becoming

a researcher and top management employee in a multinational company.
The skills I will gain in research methodologies, data analysis, and critical
thinking will equip me to address complex management challenges. I aim
to work in Telecommunication or Consumer goods, where I can apply my
research to real-world problems, eventually contributing to the
development of more effective management strategies.

Moreover, in addition to my strategic management career, I also aim to

become a part-time faculty member at a reputable private university in
my home country. This program will equip me with the necessary research
skills and knowledge to achieve both of these professional goals.

8. Why do you want to study in the UK rather than your home country?

Ans: The UK is renowned for its high academic standards and the
emphasis on research and hands on practical learning. The opportunity to
study in a diverse and dynamic environment where I can learn from both
international experts and fellow students from around the world is
invaluable. Moreover, the specific research facilities and resources
available at UCLan are not available in my home country, making the UK
the ideal place for me to pursue my studies.

9. How will you fund your studies?

Ans: I have secured the necessary funds to cover my tuition fees and
living expenses through my Job, family business and personal property
selling. I am fully prepared to manage my finances throughout the
duration of my studies. Apart from this I have some fixed deposits in
banks.

10. What are your plans after completing the course?

Ans: After completing my course, I intend to return to my home country

and pursue a career with a renowned multinational company as a
research consultant in a management role. The research skills and
knowledge I gain from this course will be crucial in helping me secure a
top management position. In the long term, I aim to contribute to the
development of management practices in my home country

11. Can you explain any gaps in your academic or employment history?
Ans: Apparently after completing my bachelor’s degree in 2003, I was
looking for professional attachments. During this time, I had few part time
apprentice attachments, but it has been more than 21 years since, that is
why I do not have any documents.

From 2005 I started my actual professional career with top multinational

companies from then I have all the documents till date.

2022- till present: After leaving IFAD MULTI PRODUCTS LIMITED in

February 2022,

I took 10 months break from my professional career to plan my next

move. From 1st January 2023 I started working at EMX Limited as Chief
Executive Officer. Currently, I am working with that company till present.

12. How will this course benefit your home country?

Ans: This course will enable me to bring advanced management research

skills and knowledge back to my home country. I intend to apply these
skills to address local management challenges, particularly in
telecommunication & Consumer Goods sections. By doing so, I hope to
contribute to the development of more effective and innovative
management practices that can drive economic growth and improve
organizational effectiveness.

13. What challenges do you expect to face during your studies, and how
will you overcome them?

Ans: I anticipate that adjusting to a new academic environment and

balancing research with other responsibilities could be challenging.
However, I am confident that my strong time management skills, my
ability to adapt, and the support services available at UCLan will help me
overcome these challenges. Additionally, I plan to engage actively with
faculty and peers to stay on track academically.

14. Please list two other universities you researched as part of your UK
study plans?

Here's a brief comparison of the MRes programs in Management at Cardiff

Metropolitan University and the University of Stirling:

Cardiff Metropolitan University

Location: Cardiff, Wales

Course Duration: 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time

Course Fee: Approximately £14,000 for international students.

Faculty: The program typically involves faculty from the Business School,
who are experienced in research and practical management.

University of Stirling

Location: Stirling, Scotland

Course Duration: 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time

Course Fee: Approximately £16,500 for international students.

Faculty: The program is delivered by the Stirling Management School,

which includes experienced researchers and practitioners in management.

Finances

15. How much does your course cost and how you are funding your
studies?

My course costs £16,900, and I have received a £1,000 scholarship. Out of

the £15,900, I have already paid £8,000, which is more than 50% of the
total fee. With £7,950 remaining, I have savings of £32,002, which is
approximately 5 million BDT.

This amount is quite manageable for me. I have been working in senior
management for the past 8 years, with an annual gross income of
approximately £3 million. I have paid tax at the highest bracket for the
past 6-7 years and have savings of over 5 million in cash. Additionally, I
have investments in the capital market and fixed assets. In 2022, I
received a significant portion of the profits from the sale of our family
property in my native village.

16. How much will you spend per week?

Ans: I need to spend £300 per week for accommodation and £300 per
week for living costs.

17. How much will you earn in your home country yearly?

Ans: 23,477 pounds (3.6 million BDT )

18. Why did you prefer UCLan than studying in other University ?

Ans: I prefer UCLan over other university in UK because:

1. Affordability: UCLan is situated in Preston, one of the most affordable
cities in the UK, which can lead to lower living costs compared to
Cardiff or Stirling.

2. Industry Connections: UCLan may offer unique industry partnerships

and practical opportunities in the North West of England, potentially
providing different career networking opportunities.

19. What do you know about UCLan and Preston ? Pls describe a little.

Ans: Here are some key points about UCLan and its location:

University of Central Lancashire (UCLan):

Founded: 1828, originally as the Institution for the Diffusion of Knowledge.

Location: Preston, Lancashire, England.

Reputation:UCLan is known for its strong focus on employability, offering a

wide range of vocational and professional courses.

Diversity: The university has a large and diverse student body, with
students from over 100 countries.

Research: UCLan has a growing reputation for research, with areas of

excellence including health, engineering, and social sciences.

Facilities: Modern campus with a mix of historic and contemporary

buildings, state-of-the-art facilities, and extensive library resources.

Preston, Lancashire:

Affordability: One of the most affordable cities in the UK, making it a cost-
effective place for students to live.

Location: Situated in North West England, approximately halfway between

Manchester and Liverpool.

Transport: Well-connected by rail and road, with easy access to major

cities and the Lake District.

Culture: A vibrant city with a rich history, offering a mix of cultural

attractions, parks, and a variety of dining and shopping options.

Student Life: A friendly and welcoming city with a lively student

community and plenty of activities, clubs, and societies.

20. Where will you stay in UK during your Study ?

Ans: I’ve made an arrangment to stay in a residential appartment in

Preston. The address is Flat no. 8, 40 Lune Street, Preston, UK.
21. What’s your passport number ?

Ans: My passport number is A04807014.

22. Did you consider studying any other countries? How many countries
did you research?
Ans: I have done research with universities in Canada, Australia, and
Sweden, but I found that the education system of the UK is by far the
most advanced and has the upper hand in many ways. Furthermore, a UK
degree is widely accepted both worldwide and in my own country.