Course summary

Delivered by the triple-accredited Aston Business School, this adaptable, inclusive programme is open to graduates of all disciplines and will provide you with the extensive knowledge and skill set required to compete in a global market. Fully CIPD accredited, this course aims to develop an in-depth understanding of the complex relationship between business environment and human resource management. You will gain detailed theoretical knowledge, exploring topics such as motivation and strategy, and consider how such areas can impact organisational performance. You will learn the practical skills required of HR practitioners in any establishment such as recruitment techniques, development tools and negotiation skills. With these capabilities, you will be equipped for a range of roles in multiple fields, across an international landscape. You will be taught by leading academics who boast a wealth of experience and have conducted research in areas such as consultancy and international human resource management. How you will learn Our programme is designed to offer you a flexible learning experience, enabling you to explore, test and apply your knowledge in a manner that suits your preferences. We employ innovative teaching methods ranging from lectures and tutorials to practical workshops, case studies and presentations. Group work fosters the sharing of insights and gathering of diverse perspectives in an open and inclusive environment, while also refining your communication and negotiation skills. Regular visits from guest industry speakers, such as those from Network Rail and the Civil Service, allow for the communication of their expertise. The degree places a strong emphasis on practical application throughout, providing ample opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge to business scenarios via case studies and simulations. You will hone your strategic thinking and decision-making skills as you recommend the best course of action in response to a variety of challenging scenarios. Through the Aston Business Clinic, this learning experience can be elevated to assisting real-world businesses in addressing their issues. In the Aston Global Advantage module, you will enhance your employability and global citizenship through experiential learning and reflective practice. Dedicated employability support, skill-building workshops and diverse learning streams will prepare you for both academic and professional success. What you will learn Throughout this programme, you will cover a large breadth of human resource management topics from recruitment and performance to leadership and employment law. You will look at how motivation and engagement of employees can impact business performance and explore the legislation businesses must adhere to. You will improve your management and leadership skills as you delve into manager-employee dynamics and how to effectively address under-performance amongst the work force. Understanding how organisations select, recruit and develop employees is crucial for business prosperity and will provide you with a competitive advantage. You will learn to manage people in various settings and identify the appropriate people strategy for each context. In the dissertation phase, you will complete a research project on a cyber security management topic of your choice, showcasing your ability to conduct independent research with a clear consideration of ethics, theory and methods. This course offers an Exchange Partnership Second Degree Pathway, meaning you can spend an additional year at one of our international partner institutions. If successful, you will graduate with two masters degrees.