Human Resource Management, MA

Course content

Across the two taught semesters you'll study core modules introducing you to the principles and concepts of HRM in different contexts. You'll think about the economic labour market, social and cultural contexts of HRM and different patterns of people management.

At the same time, you'll build an understanding of research methodologies to prepare you for your dissertation - an independent research project on a topic of your choice that you'll submit by the end of the year.

Beyond this, you'll choose optional modules that allow you to focus on your interests and career intentions. You could gain specialist knowledge in topics such as employment relations, training and development, employment law, occupational psychology, diversity management and many others.

If you choose to study part-time, you'll study over a longer period and take fewer modules in each year.

The course also provides the opportunity to become an associate or chartered member of the CIPD.

CIPD Pathway

You can choose to enhance your studies by taking an additional professional pathway, which enables you to gain CIPD membership alongside your degree. You'll take specific elements as part of your studies, and also have the opportunity to attend our HRM in Practice skills development sessions.

Part of your regular timetable, these practical sessions are taught by professionals with first-hand experience of HRM in the workplace. You'll gain insight into the challenges you'll face as a practitioner, whilst learning the behaviours and skills needed to manage them. There's also the opportunity to practise your skills in a supportive environment, working in small teams with support from an external HR practitioner.

If you choose to take this pathway, your optional modules must include Employment Relations and EITHER Training and Development OR Gender and Equality at Work in Comparative Perspectives. The third option is your choice. You will also write an additional dissertation chapter about the practical implementation of your findings.

Course structure

These are typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.

Year 1

Compulsory modules

You'll study two compulsory modules and complete your dissertation, as well as another three optional modules.If you choose the CIPD pathway you must choose Employment Relations and EITHER Training and Development OR Gender and Equality at Work in Comparative Perspective, as well as one other option of your choice.

• Human Resource Management Research Methods and Practice 15 credits
• Human Resource Management 30 credits
• Human Resource Management Dissertation 45 credits

Optional modules

• Occupational Psychology 30 credits
• Training and Development 30 credits
• Employment Law 30 credits
• Employment Relations 30 credits
• Global Perspectives on HRM and Employment Relations 30 credits
• International Employment Policy and Labour Mobility 30 credits
• People Analytics: Strategy and Practice 30 credits
• Gender and Equality at Work in Comparative Perspective 30 credits
• Diversity Management 30 credits

For more information on typical modules, read Human Resource Management MA Full Time in the course catalogue

For more information on typical modules, read Human Resource Management MA Part Time in the course catalogue

Learning and teaching

Our tutors are experts in their fields. Many are involved in high-profile national and global projects and their work is well-known among policy makers in the UK and overseas.

We use a range of teaching methods so you can benefit from their expertise such as group learning, lectures, seminars and tutorial among others. Independent study is also crucial, allowing you to develop your skills and prepare for taught sessions.

Assessment

You'll be assessed by various methods that allow you to build a broad base of skills, including reflective logs, exams, written assignments and essays, group and individual presentations and reports.

Applying, fees and funding

Entry requirements

A bachelor degree with a 2:1 (hons) usually in a social science subject. Applicants with a degree in another subject will also be considered.

International qualifications

We accept a range of international equivalent qualifications.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

Improve your English

If English is not your first language, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course before you begin your studies. This can help if you:

• don't meet the English language requirements for your course or
• want to improve your understanding of academic language and practices in your area of study.

Our pre-sessional courses are designed with a progression route to the degree programme and are tailored to the subject area. For information and entry requirements, read Language for Human Resource Management (6 weeks) and Language for Business: Human Resource Management (10 weeks).

How to apply

Application deadlines

UK/EU: 31 August 2018

International: applications received before 31 March 2018 will receive equal consideration. Applications made after 31 March 2018 will be considered on a first-come first-served basis. The latest possible application date for international applicants is 30 June 2018. Should capacity be reached we reserve the right to close any course to new applications before the latest possible application date of 30 June 2018.

• Apply (Full time)
• Apply (Part time)

This link takes you to information on applying for taught programmes and to the University's online application system.
 
If you're unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Documents and information you need

• A copy of your degree certificate and transcript, or a partial transcript if you're still studying
• Two academic references
• A personal statement
• An up-to-date CV
• Evidence of your English language qualifications, if English is not your first language.
• A letter of sponsorship, if you need one.

Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Fees

UK/EU: £11,500 (total)

International: £21,500 (total)

Read more about paying fees and charges.

For fees information for international taught postgraduate students, read Masters fees.

Part-time fees are normally calculated based on the number of credits you study in a year compared to the equivalent full-time course. For example, if you study half the course credits in a year, you will pay half the full-time course fees for that year.

Additional cost information

An additional fee is payable for the CIPD Pathway. This pathway is optional and should you choose to take it you will need to pay an additional fee of £500.

If you choose to become a CIPD member you will also pay a CIPD admission and membership fee. Please visit the CIPD website for the most up-to-date fee information.

There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more about additional costs

Scholarships and financial support

If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances.

We award a range of scholarships to UK, EU and international students. Scholarships are available to candidates who can demonstrate an excellent academic record and show excellent professional and personal skills.

There are several scholarships available for this course that you may be eligible for, including:

• Masters in HRM International Excellence Scholarship
• Masters in HRM UK/EU Excellence Scholarship

Career opportunities

This course provides you with the academic knowledge and professional skills needed for a senior-level career in global Human Resource Management. You will develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and become a reflective HR professional. The course also offers opportunities if you want to progress to further research studies.

Recent graduates are now working for a range of organisations, including blue-chip multinationals such as Canon, Honeywell, Rolls-Royce and BAE Systems.

As part of the course you will have the opportunity to work closely with businesses through a range of live projects and challenges. Read more about opportunities to work with employers.

Careers support

Our dedicated Professional Development Tutor provides bespoke academic and careers support, helping you develop the skills to successfully progress through your course as well as the employability skills you need for your career.

You can expect guidance on career choices, identifying and applying for jobs, coaching on interpersonal skills and contact with professionals working in HR.

The University's Careers Centre provides help and advice, even after you graduate.

Read more about our careers and professional development support.

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