This module can  be taken as a Short Course for Credit 
Please go to the 'Upgrade to a professional qualification' section for more information.
 

Introduces the concept of systems and systems thinking. Whether you are involved in providing value for money in services such as the provision of education, health, defence or policing, in introducing or managing major programmes and projects, responsible for the design and procurement of major engineering initiatives, and managing in conditions of uncertainty, understanding systems and systems thinking and their contribution is a significant benefit.


The course has a running case study, which serves as a practical 'hand-rail' to guide students through the application of systems thinking methods and provides a 'tool-box' of approaches and methods that take a more holistic approach to problem structuring, requirements capture and definition; appreciating multiple viewpoints and addressing different perspectives.

At a glance

  • Dates
    • Please enquire for course dates
  • Duration5 days
  • LocationCranfield campus
  • Cost£2,350

What you will learn

On successful completion of this course you will be able to:

  • Examine core systems concepts and systems laws that underpin and inform the practical methodologies and methods,
  • Distinguish essential attributes of systems,
  • Appraise systems laws, concepts and systems thinking approaches applied directly in real world situations, or in support of systems methodologies.

Core content

This is the foundation course and introduces the basic concepts of systems, thinking, and how we think about systems and systems laws and principles.

It introduces concepts of complexity and aspects of complex systems in their nature of being structurally coupled with the systems environment.

It introduces how we think and a selection of methods and techniques for thinking about a situation, about context and about perspectives, as well as ways of synthesising perspectives.

Finally it introduces scenario thinking and scenario planning.

Upgrade to a professional qualification

When taken as a Short Course for Credit, 10 credit points can be put towards the Systems Thinking Practice MSc

Find out more about short course credit points.

Who should attend

The course is aimed at:

  • Systems Analysts and Engineers of all disciplines
  • Managers/decision makers/policy makers
  • Individuals who need critical thinking skills to achieve successful outcomes in a complex working environment.

Location and travel

Situated close to Milton Keynes and Bedford, the Cranfield campus is situated in Wharley End, very close to Cranfield village, and is about 10 minutes from the M1 motorway.  There is rail and road access to most major airports as well as coach and train stations. Cranfield campus also has its own airport for private executive business travel.

Download a visitor guide including map, directions and health and safety information.

Campus address

College Road
Cranfield
Bedfordshire
MK43 0AL


How to apply

To apply for this course please use the online application form.

Read our Professional development (CPD) booking conditions.