Human Resource Management

Human Resource Management - MA

Effective recruitment, development and retention of people is crucial for maximising business success. Master the fundamental skills needed to become a successful people-focused management professional on our Human Resource Management MA. You’ll gain in-depth academic knowledge alongside its practical application, benefit from industry engagement opportunities, and build the expertise to motivate and manage staff, anticipate and navigate reactions to change, and positively shape organisational strategy.

Month of entry

September, January

Mode of study

Full time

Location

Keele University campus

Subject area

Business and Management

Fees for 2025/26 academic year

UK - Full time £12,700 per year.
International - £17,700 per year.

Duration of study

1 year

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Why study Human Resource Management at Keele University?

On successful completion, it can lead to Associate level membership of the Chartered Institute for Personnel and Development (CIPD) and, following the required professional practice, Chartered Membership and Fellowship

Professional development and practical industry engagement opportunities

Fully integrates sustainability and ethical business practices

Designed for individuals from diverse academic and professional backgrounds, including those new to the field of human resource management

Hear from industry practitioners which have previously included a representative from the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS)

Course summary

Businesses recognise that human resource management (HRM) is pivotal in driving employee engagement and attracting top talent. With our MA programme you’ll gain a robust foundation in theory and practice, preparing you to achieve success in roles such as HR manager, talent development specialist or employee relations consultant.

Aligned with the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) standards, our programme establishes a solid foundation in HR theories, practices, and professional skills. You’ll study core themes such as employment relationships, contemporary issues in the sector, and the external factors shaping HRM. You’ll analyse the management of geographically dispersed teams, examine the role of culture in international HRM, and explore the employee lifecycle framework, focusing on talent management, performance, retention, remote working, and work-life balance. Essential leadership and professional skills will be developed, identifying different leadership styles and aligning with the CIPD Profession Map.

Central to this programme is a strong focus on advancing your professional development and providing practical industry engagement opportunities, strategically enhancing your employability. You’ll connect with experienced professionals, gain insights into the latest trends in your chosen field and have the opportunity to work directly with an organisation to develop solutions for a current business issue, gaining valuable real-world skills.

Our programme provides the flexibility to align your studies to your career aspirations through a core Professional Project. You can choose to undertake a research project, consultancy project, or a strategic business proposal.

Sustainability, ethics and responsible business practices are embedded throughout and by completing Keele Business School’s Sustainability Passport you’ll demonstrate your ability to incorporate sustainability practices in a professional context.

Located in an innovation park that fosters collaboration between academia and industry, Keele’s campus offers a supportive learning environment designed to prepare you to excel in the dynamic world of global business.

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Next steps

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Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development

Keele Business School is an approved Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) centre. The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development is a professional association for people who work in human resource management, learning and development, and other related fields.

We have established close relationships with the North Staffordshire and South Cheshire CIPD Branch, providing our CIPD student members with access to its 1,600-strong membership, professional networking events and workshops. In addition, CIPD Midlands Area Partnership activities bring ten local CIPD branches in the area together, providing additional opportunities to access events, including student centred activities, such as induction and networking events. A member of our teaching staff is currently a Committee Member of the local North Staffordshire and South Cheshire CIPD branch, further cementing the important links between Keele Business School and the professional body for HR professionals.

"I was attracted to the course as it is a comprehensive programme that covers all the HR functions and the diversity is outstanding in Keele, you will see tens of nationalities. The lectures were very supportive and helpful, and I felt safe and secure while living on campus. The whole experience was like an interesting journey and getting CIPD accreditation for the first time was great. It developed me theoretically and moved me to the next level. I started up my HR consultancy firm in London, which provides HR solutions to enterprises around the globe, which blend the HR theories I studied during the MA and my practical experience from professional employment."

Moustafa, MA Human Resource Management Graduate

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Course structure

Modules

The module details given below are indicative, they are intended to provide you with an idea of the range of subjects that are taught to our current students. The modules that will be available for you to study in future years are prone to change as we regularly review our teaching to ensure that it is up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods, as well as student voice. The information presented is therefore not intended to be construed and/or relied upon as a definitive list of the modules available in any given year.

Human Resource Management module structure

Compulsory modules

Business Consultancy Project
In the Business Consultancy Project, you will build foundational skills and gain practical experience by working directly with a real organisation to develop solutions to real-world challenges. You will learn to engage with businesses, frame organisational issues, and apply creativity and innovation. This module develops core skills in collaboration, communication, and problem-solving, preparing you for the Professional Project and Placement. It provides a strong foundation for success in other areas of the programme.

Professional Development and Industry Insights
This module helps you explore the industry you want to work in, including its structure, recruitment practices, and key trends. You will assess your own skills and experiences, identifying how you align with the industry’s needs and expectations. Through active learning, reflective activities, and guest speaker insights, you will develop practical knowledge and career planning skills. The module supports your progression into the Business Consultancy Project, Professional Project, and Placement, preparing you for future opportunities.

Human Resource Management: Theories, Strategy, and Insights
The module introduces foundational theories and concepts in the management of people as a means for understanding the basis of HRM. The starting focus is on the employment relationship followed by theoretical perspectives underpinning HRM practice. Environmental influences shaping HR policies and practices are also discussed alongside the benefits of and challenges in strategic HRM and contemporary HRM insights.

Managing People in a Global Context
This module explores theories and practices in managing international human resources, focusing on the transfer of HRM practices across borders. It examines strategic approaches, the role of culture in shaping HRM, and the challenges of managing geographically dispersed teams. Particular emphasis is placed on expatriate management, addressing the complexities of supporting employees in global assignments. This module provides a comprehensive understanding of international HRM and its impact on organisational success in diverse settings.

Managing Talent, Rewards, and Relations
This module provides an overview of human resource management (HRM) practices using the employee life cycle as a framework. It covers key topics such as talent management, performance, engagement, and retention, alongside contemporary issues including remote working and work-life balance. The module also examines employee rewards and their impact on talent management strategies. By addressing these areas, it equips you with the knowledge and skills to manage HRM effectively in evolving workplace environments.

Leadership, Skills and the HR Professional
This module examines the role of HR professionals and the skills required to excel in their positions, aligned with the CIPD Profession Map. You will engage in practical activities, exploring HR leadership styles and effective HRM practices. The module provides a comprehensive understanding of the competencies needed to navigate challenges in human resource management, equipping you to contribute effectively to organisational success in dynamic and evolving workplace environments.

Professional Project
In the Professional Project, you will undertake an independent piece of work that builds on academic and practical skills developed throughout the programme. You can choose from three routes: a research project, a consultancy project, or a strategic business proposal, aligned to your career aspirations. We will support you in preparing for your chosen path with essential research or consultancy skills. The module culminates in a detailed write-up and reflective analysis, showcasing your expertise and professional growth.

Next steps

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Postgraduate Study with Keele Business School

Keele Business School's range of postgraduate programmes aim to help you accelerate your career in business. Our authentic business school approach will help develop you in to one of the business leaders of tomorrow.

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Entry requirements

The following section details our typical entry requirements for this course for a range of UK and international qualifications. If you don't see your qualifications listed, please contact us to find out if we can accept your qualifications.

Typical offer

Please ensure that you read the full entry requirements by selecting your qualifications from the dropdown menu below. This will include any subject specific, GCSE/Level 2 Maths, and English language requirements you may need.

Typical offer: 2:2 degree in any subject Additional criteria apply

Please select your country from the drop-down list below for the full entry requirement information

UK

2:2 degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience

You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)

Bangladesh

60% in a 4-year degree or 3-year degree with a 2-year Master's in any subject from a public university or CGPA 2.8 in a 4-year degree or 3-year degree with a 2-year Master's in any subject from a private university
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience

We don’t accept degrees from certain universities, please see our Bangladesh Country Page for more information

You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)

Canada

70% or C or a GPA of 2.5 in a degree (Ordinary or Honours) in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience

You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)

China

70% in a degree in any subject or 65% in a degree in any subject from a '211' university
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience

You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)

Ghana

Second class degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience

You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)

India

55% or CGPA 6/10 in any degree of three years or longer
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience

You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)

Kenya

Second class degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience

You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)

Nepal

60% / 2.4 in a 4-year Bachelor's degree in any subject
or
65% / CGPA 2.8 in a 3-year Bachelor's degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience

You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)

Nigeria

Second class degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience

You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)

Pakistan

We accept a range of qualifications from Pakistan. Please visit our Pakistan Country Page for more information

or we will consider demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience

You will also need an English language qualification (see below)

South Africa

Second class division 2 / 60% in a Bachelor's degree with Honours in any subject
or
Second class division 1 / 70% in an Ordinary Bachelor's degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience

You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)

Sri Lanka

55% in a Special Bachelor's degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience

You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)

Uganda

Second class degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience

You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)

Zimbabwe

Second class degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience

You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)

Pre-Master's in Business

The Keele University International College offer a one semester Pre-Master's in Business programme for international students who do not meet the traditional entry requirements for a postgraduate business degree at Keele University.

Please visit the Keele University International College for more information on how to apply, entry requirements and course details.

English language requirements

All of our courses require an English language qualification or test. For most students, this requirement can be met with a 4 or C in GCSE English. Please see our English Language guidance pages for further details, including English language test information for international students. For those students who require an English language test, this course requires a test from Group B.

References

Normally, you will need to provide at least one academic reference to support your application unless you have been out of study longer than two years. If it has been more than two years since you last studied on a degree-level programme, you will normally need to provide an employment reference instead. For more information about Academic References, please see our Postgraduate how to apply web pages.

Personal Statement/Statement of Purpose

Please see our Postgraduate how to apply web pages for guidance on what to include in your personal statement.

Recognition of Prior Learning

The Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process which enables applicants to receive recognition and formal credit for learning acquired in the past through formal study or work and life experiences.

RPL can also be requested for admission onto the start of a programme in lieu of the admission requirements. For more information, see our Recognition of Prior Learning web pages.

Professional qualifications and work experience

The majority of our courses will consider relevant work experience and/or professional qualifications at the appropriate level, as an alternative to an undergraduate degree for entry. The work experience should be for a sustained period and at a suitable level, based within a relevant sector to your chosen course.

Admissions staff will review your work experience and/or professional qualifications during the assessment of your application to ensure suitability in terms of relevancy, level and appropriate learning outcomes.

General information

The entry grades outlined in this section indicate the typical offer which would be made to candidates, along with any subject specific requirements. This is for general information only. Keele University reserves the right to vary offer conditions depending upon a candidate's application.

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"Completing my MA gave me the initial confidence to apply for a role in a quite intimidating sector in the police force. On paper, I had very limited recruitment history, however the theoretical knowledge I learned allowed me to demonstrate the relevant competencies in the interview. Within six months, I was promoted to look after all recruitment, selection and onboarding for new officers who join the force. My MA set me apart from other candidates and has certainly enhanced my employability. It has not only strengthened my confidence and employability, but the structure of the taught side of the course and my dissertation aided my organisational skills and gave me real insight into how to strategically manage my time and deliver outcomes."

Olivia, MA Human Resource Management Graduate

PRME Champions

Keele Business School (KBS) has been selected for the 2024-2025 cohort of PRME Champions. Consisting of 47 businesses and management schools from around the world, The Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME) is an initiative of the United Nations Global Compact, focused on raising the bar for sustainable business education. More information about PRME Champions can be found here.

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Your career

The breadth of knowledge and expertise gained from our Human Resource Management MA will prepare you for a broad range of career opportunities. You will be confident in your abilities to address complex people management challenges within various organisations. Upon graduation you will also be ideally placed to pursue further study at MPhil or PhD.

Graduates from this programme have advanced to diverse management and professional roles, including HRM specialists in the health service, police force, specialist recruitment agencies, and the financial sector. Some have launched their own businesses, become lecturers in the field, or taken on various roles within government or the third sector (charities). They have secured positions with organisations such as the NHS, British Transport Police, Npower, DSG Financial Services, Interserve, Prudential, and Churchill China, among others.

Jobs that a graduate of this programme could progress to include:

Assistant HR Manager
Associate Business Process Manager
Business Customer Manager
Business Development Consultant
Employee Development and Management Executive
Finance Training Manager
Financial Consultant
HR Administrator/Advisor/Officer/Consultant/Manager
HR Recruitment Coordinator
International Exchange Secretary
International HR and Talent Acquisition Specialist
Lecturer
Managing Director
Regional Admissions Manager
Resourcing Advisor
Senior HR Recruiter
Talent Acquisition Manager
Vice President of Business Development

Enhance your employability

Keele Careers and Employability offers comprehensive support for careers and placements, including workshops, personalised guidance, and access to job opportunities. Their services include CV development, interview preparation, and career planning to help you succeed with confidence in your professional journey.

Next steps

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"As an international student, coming to the UK for my studies has been an exciting and eye opening experience. It has been a great learning opportunity for me as I am more aware of what to expect in a real-life setting and how to handle situations as an HR practitioner. I am looking forward to pursuing my career and being an HR manager in the future. The staff in this University are amazing and they do an excellent job ensuring that students fully engage in discussions as well as have a full understanding of the course. In addition, the support received, diverse environment and exquisite facilities have made Keele more than just a place to learn but home for me. I encourage anyone coming to study at Keele, to take the bold step."

Osarhieme, Human Resource Management Graduate

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Keele Postgraduate Association

Keele University is one of a handful of universities in the UK to have a dedicated students' union for postgraduate students. A fully registered charity, Keele Postgraduate Association serves as a focal point for the social life and welfare needs of all postgraduate students during their time at Keele.

KPA interior

Hugely popular, the KPA Clubhouse (near Horwood Hall) provides a dedicated postgraduate social space and bar on campus, where you can grab a bite to eat and drink, sit quietly and read a book, or switch off from academic life at one of the many regular events organised throughout the year. The KPA also helps to host a variety of conferences, as well as other academic and career sessions, to give you and your fellow postgraduates the opportunities to come together to discuss your research, and develop your skills and networks.

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"What I am enjoying most about my course is the opportunity to write a dissertation of my choice and have some leeway as to how I approach it. Also, since the start of postgrad, particular modules have allowed me to improve my presentation skills and boost my confidence. I really like how close-knit Keele is as a community, as well the beautiful scenery and peaceful walks through Keele woods!"

Nikhita, MA Human Resource Management

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