ObjectivesThe two-year part-time Executive-style MA in Human Resource Development is aimed at practising human resource professionals seeking to develop their knowledge, skills and understanding of human resource activities. The aim of the course is to develop 'thinking HR performers' by providing a systematic understanding of people management and development, and a critical awareness of current problems and/or new insights, much of which is at, or informed by, the forefront of human resource development research and practice. The MA in Human Resource Development is designed for HRD specialists and is intended to enable you to plan, conduct and evaluate a range of development interventions effectively within your own organisation.
Entry requirementsYou should possess a lower second degree or above, or an equivalent professional qualification or have considerable relevant professional experience; and be in an appropriate human resources job role. All applicants who meet the requirements are invited along to an interview, where they will be asked to demonstrate that they have the required intellectual ability; sufficient prior experience of HR, and the ability to learn independently, and contribute to others' learning.
Academic titleMA Human Resource Development
Course descriptionCourse structure
This two-year course consists of seven modules plus a dissertation and residential component. The modules are:
-Managing Resources in Context
-Managing People for Results
-Designing and Delivering Training
-Managing Organisational Learning and Knowledge
-Managing the Training and Development Function
-Research Methods
-Management Development OR Personnel Management
You will also be required to submit a 15,000-word dissertation.
During the course, you will also participate in an international study visit to another EU country (previous residentials have been held in France). It will normally be of about five days' duration. The week consists of visits to organisations, presentations from practitioners, and seminars and discussions on relevant issues. You will be required to complete an assignment about the study visit.
In addition, Year One includes a compulsory weekend residential at the beginning of the course to examine and practice the skills you will need throughout the rest of the course. There are a number of other compulsory one-day workshops throughout the course.
Assessment
Assessment methods include assignments written in report format, comparative analyses, learning contracts and logs, presentations, group work and exams. There will also be a record of continuing professional development and a dissertation.
Career opportunities
Successful completion of this Masters degree (or the Postgraduate Diploma within it) provides Graduate Membership of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, and prepares you for careers in a wide variety of industries. Successful completion of the two modules in the first semester of the course leads to an Advanced Diploma in Professional Development and Licentiate Membership of the CIPD.
Attendance & duration
Part-time (eve): two years, 2 evenings a week
Part-time (day and eve): two years, 1 afternoon and one evening a week