Human Resource Management

Three years full-time, or four years sandwich degree with a work placement in year three, or four years extended degree: full-time with reduced classroom hours and including work-based learning.

The programme will produce business literate graduates who will be effective people managers. This degree especially aims to produce well-rounded graduates who could contribute to the human resource, personnel or training function in a diverse range of organisational settings. However, the degree course will be valuable for any graduate wishing to enter organisational life with an interest in managing and creating effective work environments.

The programme uses a range of approaches to introduce students to the concepts of organisational behaviour and human resource management. Students will be able to evaluate contemporary thinking about business issues and recognise the importance and value of effective people management.

Stage one

Students will have the opportunity to study organisations in-depth and appreciate the different role that HR practitioners may play in organisations as diverse as small businesses and global corporations.

Stage two

Developing work-related skills is an important aspect of the course and all students will have the opportunity to undertake an organisational placement, which is optional but strongly recommended. Students will be able to apply and develop their knowledge and skills and evaluate the HRM policies and strategies within the organisation in which they are placed.

Stage three

Research skills are developed throughout the course and culminate in a dissertation in the final stage. Students will be expected to study an issue of interest within HR and it is anticipated that this will be of particular personal benefit for their future career. The course spans three to four years, depending on whether a placement year is undertaken. There are normally six modules at each stage.

• Course tutors with relevant professional qualifications and business experience
• Guest lecturer programme
• Optional work placement year

Click here for a detailed list of modules.

Typical modules include:

• Business and Computing Skills
• Business Environment
• Cross-cultural Management
• Developing People
• Employee Selection and Measurement
• Labour Market Dynamics
• Law for Business and Marketing
• Managing People
• Organisational Change
• Strategic Business Analysis

A mixture of assessment methods allows students to demonstrate their learning in a range of situations including written assignments, personal development journal, learning logs, literature reviews, presentations, reports and examinations.

As well as general management roles, graduates find careers in HRM, personnel or training. This degree can lead on to further study of HRM such as the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) programme, giving a professional qualification, or to an MA or MBA.