Postgraduate MSc/PgDip/PgCert

Human Resource Management

Salford Business School

Attendance

Full-time

Part-time

Course

One year

Two year

Next enrolment

June 2023

Introduction

In a nutshell

International applicants: please check the international intakes page for the latest information and application dates.

In this programme, you will develop your understanding of Human Resource Management practices across a variety of organisational settings, taking into account the way national and international contexts impact upon people management. In your last semester, you will work on a project to research a real industry problem and provide evidence-based solutions, helping you put your learning into practice. The programme is suitable for both UK and international students.

"I’ve always been the type of person that hates public speaking. However, I know that going into HR – the career I want – I need to stand up in front of people if I’m doing presentations or going to conferences. If I progress, I need to be confident. I feel like my presentation skills and confidence have improved, especially with legal and academic language." Read more about student Hannah Murphy's experience on the course and the opportunity she had on the Tribunals Project to develop her skills.

The MSc HRM has been delivered successfully over many years and is highly industry-focussed, designed to help you apply ideas to practice.

Having been through a renewal process in the Spring of 2022 our MSc HRM programme is accredited by the CIPD, the professional body for HR.

Six good reasons to choose Salford Business School:

  1. Practical teaching, mapped to the CIPD profession map, meaning that students will have the opportunity to graduate with Associate Member status of the CIPD
  2. Real-world learning on an industry-focussed Organisational Project
  3. Flexible teaching to fit with your life priorities
  4. Beautiful campus just minutes from Manchester city centre
  5. Excellent industry links with the dynamic Greater Manchester business community
  6. Focus on the digital, ethical and sustainability business challenges of the 21st century.

You can study this programme full-time (day delivery) or part-time (evening delivery); for part-time evening study, please visit the web page. This route is intended for graduates who currently work in the field and who require professional accreditation, as well as those who intend to move into a career in Human Resource Management and Development.

Find out more, register for one of our Open Days or attend a campus tour. Explore the Salford campus on our virtual tour. Our supportive course enquiries team can help you with any general questions you may have. You can also explore all of our Masters courses.

The course also offers a distance learning option through our official partner Robert Kennedy College, Zurich, Switzerland. Please note this option does not carry the CIPD accreditation.

You will:

  • Prepare to become a strategic leader in managing and developing people in international organisations
  • Learn to apply theoretical ideas to help solve practical problems in organisational development
  • Develop an understanding of the core principles of UK employment law and how to advise your organisation when legal action is anticipated
  • Analyse trends in national and international employment
  • Evaluate recruitment, selection and induction processes for long term organisational performance
Placement

options available

International

students accepted

Course accreditations

CIPD logo

This is for you if...

1.

You have aspirations of a career in human resources

2.

You wish to enhance your people management skills

3.

You want to develop your understanding of employment law

4.

You are a critical thinker

5.

You work well in a group

6.

You like to apply learning to practical situations

Course details

All about the course

This course is designed for graduates with a background in business or social science related studies, who wish to specialise in HRM and pursue either a career as an HRM practitioner or role which involves significant people management responsibilities. On completion you will have developed as a manager of people by learning specialist knowledge and the application of theory to practice in the main specialist areas which comprise HRM.

You’ll learn to effectively select, motivate, manage and reward employees to maximise their potential and the potential of your organisation. You will also have become a reflective practitioner, capable of furthering your ongoing learning and development.

COURSE STRUCTURE

The MSc HRM programme is made up of a mix of modules totalling 180 credits, and is block delivered across all three trimesters of the academic year.  You will study one module at a time. Teaching is delivered face to face, in the classroom for eight hours each week over 6 weeks (Full time) or four hours each week over 12 weeks (Part-Time evening), and is a mix of interactive lecture, discussion and activities.

During each module, you will be required to undertake independent study in your own time, with online support through the University’s virtual learning environment, Blackboard.

The Organisational Project module is the final module, where you will have the opportunity to select between a work placement, (pending availability), analysis of a case organisation or a ‘mini’ dissertation, all of which are designed to develop your skills and enhance your career prospects.

Part time evening students will study over two years, taking 90 credits in year one, and 90 credits in year two.

.

Semester one

HR Strategy and Practices

This module considers the macro environment and context in which organisations operate. It focuses on how organisations develop their sense of purpose, goals and strategy, at an organisational level, and how a workforce (people management) strategy and approach can be aligned with this. It will consider what adaptability and agility means for organisations today, and how organisations can design practices such as Talent Management, Performance Management and Reward Management that work to enable high performance.

Employment Law

The purpose of the module is to provide a comprehensive understanding of employment relations and employment law, analysing perspectives from a theoretical and behavioural competency. The module will aim to provide opportunities to apply the activities, knowledge and behavioural competencies required for managing employment relations practices in union and non-union, small, large, public, private, charitable and indigenous and multinational organisations. It will facilitate evaluation of the roles and functions of different stakeholders in employment relations.

The students will also gain knowledge, understanding and skills to be the prime advisor on employment law to line and senior management and seeks to facilitate discussion, analysis and reflection on theory and practice and contribute to professional development

Leadership and Development

To equip students with an understanding of different perspectives on, and approaches to leadership practice, including the cultural dominance of certain perspectives within the literature, in order that they are to be able develop and utilise culturally and situationally appropriate leadership behaviour at a personal level and advise on the development of such behaviour across different levels of organisations.

Semester two

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion for HR Practitioners

This module explores the core concepts concerning equality, diversity and inclusion from both a theoretical and practitioner perspective. In line with the CIPD profession map and standards the module will equip practitioners with the relevant knowledge and strategies to develop and implement EDI (equality, diversity and inclusion) interventions in the organisational context. It will critically examine the legal, social, economic and human resource implications of EDI interventions.

Technology, Data and the Future of Work

This module provides students with an understanding of the way data and evidence inform HR and business decision making and engages with the debate about the future of work, particularly how technology and digitisation, and multi-generational working are impacting working lives.

Organisational Design and Development

This module focuses on the key factors that shape and constitute what is referred to as Organisational Design and Development. It explores the way organisational structures and cultures have developed over time, including the ways in which organisations are currently re-designing work and workplaces to accommodate a diversity of worker preferences

Semester three

Research Methods

This module has been designed to assist students with the completion of a real-life organisational research project. There is both a theoretical and practical element to the module. Initially key aspects of the research process are explored, starting from the development of aims and objectives and research questions. From then the module covers the literature review, and methodology. Further, other key aspects of the module entail the development of a proposal and ethical approval. The module is designed to support students through the research process, and it is expected that students will complete stages of a research-based process as they proceed through the module.

Organisational Project

This module builds on the preceding theoretically based Research Methods module. it is designed to develop studennts' practical inquiry and research process skills. Students will undertake an individual project or a work placement and produce a report.

Please note that it may not be possible to deliver the full list of options every year as this will depend on factors such as how many students choose a particular option. Exact modules may also vary in order to keep content current. When accepting your offer of a place to study on this programme, you should be aware that not all optional modules will be running each year. Your tutor will be able to advise you as to the available options on or before the start of the programme. Whilst the University tries to ensure that you are able to undertake your preferred options, it cannot guarantee this.

What will I be doing?

89%

Pass rates, 2020-21

38%

Merit

51%

Distiction

TEACHING

The teaching on all our postgraduate programmes is based on the following principles:

  • Developing the leader/manager of the future
  • Professional competence
  • Global thinking
  • Ethical, responsible and sustainable practice.

We use a wide range of approaches to teaching to help you learn. Typically a module will include a mixture of activities: generally based around interactive lectures, dealing with a number of specific topics. The tutor introduces and explains key concepts and learning points, which are consolidated by class discussion and case study analysis to help your understanding and to prepare for assessment. You will be encouraged to offer examples from your own experience of work.

In addition, you will get an outline syllabus content and associated reading list at the start of the module which will be the basis for your self-directed study.

An important principle of the learning and teaching strategy is to develop you as a reflective practitioner able to understand your own motivations and abilities.

International student? Returning to study? Making the leap from undergraduate study? Whatever your circumstance, we will support you to move into postgraduate study. Find out more.

ASSESSMENT

There will be a range of assessment techniques used during your course giving you and your tutor the opportunity to assess your progress and learning. Each module will also normally include two assessments which will contribute to your final marks.

Types of assessment include: essays, assignments, multiple-choice tests, online tests, group reports and portfolio work. The weighting between exams and coursework varies between modules.

Why Choose Salford Business School?

Salford Business School aims to foster the next generation of leaders and create a new vision of innovative and entrepreneurial leadership. We are integrated into the local business community as a hub for knowledge creation and exchange.

This means that our teaching is highly practical and your learning is informed by our industry partners. Every postgraduate course includes a work placement or work experience project in the UK or internationally so you can put your learning into practice before you graduate. We are proud that our industry collaborations and partnerships benefit students, businesses and the community.

With multiple start points for our degrees, you can choose when to start your studies so that they fit with your life priorities. We want you to succeed in your studies and in your profession so we provide the support you need to achieve your aims.

Our goal is to prepare you for a fulfilling life and professional career. Along the way, you’ll learn to be curious, adaptable and confident, ready to meet the digital, ethical and sustainability challenges of the 21st century.

Is Business a Science or an Art?

At Salford Business School, our postgraduate degree award is the Masters of Science (MSc) to reflect our approach to business knowledge. We believe that business decisions should be data-driven and evidence-based – even when the outputs are innovative and creative.

Where will I learn?

Salford Business School is located at the heart of the University’s beautiful Peel Park campus and just minutes from Manchester city centre. Teaching facilities include Lady Hale and Chapman buildings which offer stylish modern spaces with lecture theatres equipped with the very latest technology and large screen displays. Small group learning (tutorials, seminars and workshops) is held in dedicated spaces within Maxwell, Peel and Chapman buildings. Throughout our campus, there is a choice of individual study areas as well as communal learning and breakout spaces for group working.

The University library isn’t just for reading books.  The ‘library in the park’ is a fresh, modern learning space with PC suites, Mac computers, bookable working rooms and café.  It's open 24/7 everyday of the year (except Christmas Day!) so you can study when it suits you. It'll be an important place for you; in 2020, 100% of students asked agreed that the library resources have supported their learning (University of Salford analysis of unpublished NSS 2020 data). 

You will have access to a range of study skills sessions to help you get ready for postgraduate  learning and be successful in your studies and in your work. These include academic writing, research and digital skills.

A dedicated Employability team will help you with work placements and access to work skills. and opportunities to participate in training workshops to ensure best practice.

Interested in starting your own business? Launch@ Salford is the incubation centre for business start ups providing a reception area, hot desk office space, private meeting rooms – and a networking lounge where you can grab a coffee and make those business connections.

Programme Leader

Dr Kathy Hartley

"Our Human Resource Management & Development programme here at Salford has recently been through a review and update, in line with our usual practice. The challenges with a programme such as this are around compiling a current, practically relevant and academically rigorous programme that will resonate with both current and future practitioners; one that will enhance professional skills while also stimulating and developing thinking. I believe that as a team we have managed to achieve a good balance between these different aspects, with feedback to date suggesting that the programme is challenging and enabling students to become their best and desired selves." 

Kathy is a former Sales and Business Manager, having worked for many years in the healthcare and pharma industries within both the private and public sector.  She is an Associate member of the CIPD, a Fellow of the Higher Education Authority and also a qualified nurse. Her areas of academic interest include change management, coaching and women in leadership. You can see more information on Kathy's LinkedIn profile.

Teaching Team Members

Dr Jonathan Lord (Senior Lecturer in HRM&D) 

Jonathan is a Lecturer in Human Resource Management and MBA Director for Salford Business School.

He has previously been a HR Director, Manager and Consultant, working across all three sectors. Specifically, he has worked within the transport and construction industries, as well as carrying out HR projects within the public and voluntary sector.

Jonathan is a Chartered Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, Member of the British Academy of Management and Industrial Law Society. 

His specialist research area focuses on Labour Law and how this is governed as well as developed over many centuries. The research particularly focuses on employment tribunals and their importance within the employment relationship. 

Getting Here

University of Salford is easy to get to with Salford Crescent train station right in the centre of our main campus. Whether by bus, rail, bike, car or plane, Peel Park campus is easily accessed from all over Greater Manchester, Lancashire and beyond. For international students, Manchester airport is a short ride away and offers regular flights from London and many international airports.

Employment and stats

What about after uni?

Previous graduates of our programme have gone on to take up roles in a variety of private and public sector organisations including, Burberry, Hilti, Morsons, NHS, Peninsula and many more.

If you opt for the CIPD pathway alongside your Master’s degree, you will have the opportunity to graduate with Associate Member status of the CIPD and become part of the CIPD community.

A taste of what you could become

A human resources officer

A Senior HR Advisor

A training and development officer

A recruitment manager

An office manager

And more...

Career Links

You will be encouraged to attend CIPD Manchester Branch events and join meetings of the Manchester Industrial Relations Society. Our course team also maintains excellent relations with local, national and international organisations, commentators and employers.

Our teaching is industry-led, inspired by contemporary practice and developed in partnership with business leaders. Our academics are experts in their field and work closely with industry to ensure that our courses reflect the needs of business and provide our students with that extra edge when it comes to securing a job.

Our part-time students are drawn from a wide range of public, private and third sector organisations, allowing you to enjoy highly valuable networking opportunities.

Salford Business School also operates a guest lecture course which allows you the chance to mix with professionals from industry, make connections, set up placements and conduct research.

Requirements

What you need to know

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

All of our courses are taught and assessed in English, so as an applicant you must meet our minimum English language entry requirements. If you are an international student and not from a majority English speaking country, you will need IELTS 6 with no element below 5.5.

We also accept a range of other English language qualifications. If you do not have the English language requirements, you could take our Pre-Sessional English course

 

Standard entry requirements

Undergraduate degree

Normally a minimum 2:2 honours degree or equivalent or successful completion of the Graduate Certificate International Management or the Graduate Certificate Human Resource Management.

A wide range of professional qualifications are also accepted either in partial or complete fulfilment of entry requirements.

Where a student has gained a recognised honours degree but does not meet the normal entry qualification requirement, they may still be considered for entry if they can demonstrate relevant work experience of a minimum two years duration post study and acceptable level of responsibility.

International Students

We accept qualifications from all around the world. Find your country to see a full list of entry requirements.

Alternative entry requirements

Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL)

We welcome applications from students who may not have formal/traditional entry criteria but who have relevant experience or the ability to pursue the course successfully.

The Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process could help you to make your work and life experience count. The APL process can be used for entry onto courses or to give you exemptions from parts of your course.

Two forms of APL may be used for entry: the Accreditation of Prior Certificated Learning (APCL) or the Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL).

How much?

Type of study Year Fees
Full-time home 2023/24 £8,550per year
Full-time international 2023/24 £15,750per year
Part-time 2023/24 £1,425 per 30 credit module

Fees for PgDip (4 x 30 credit modules) and PgCert (2 x 30 credit modules) are based on the fee shown above for part-time per 30 credit module.

Additional costs

For more information please see our funding section.

You should also consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits.

Scholarships for international students

If you are a high-achieving international student, you may be eligible for one of our scholarships. Explore our international scholarships.

Apply now

All set? Let's apply

Still have some questions?  Contact us:

By email (UK applicants): enquiries@salford.ac.uk
By email (international applicants): international@salford.ac.uk

By phone:  +44 (0) 161 295 4545

Enrolment dates

June 2023

September 2023

January 2024

June 2024

September 2024