Course summary

Our fully accredited CIPD course focuses on developing an understanding of the complex relationship between business environment and Human Resource Management (HRM). Applying an international perspective and exploring a range of HRM practices enables students to engage critically with their chosen discipline and develop key professional transferable skills. This course provides you with a detailed theoretical knowledge of Human Resource Management, whilst at the same time giving you the relevant vocational skills needed for a range of HR roles. You’ll also benefit by developing a broad range of business skills. This can help you to secure management positions in various areas of business. We use a variety of teaching methods to enable you to get the most from the course. There’s practical workshops, case studies, group work, lectures and tutorials. They allow you to explore, test and apply what you’ve learnt in a way that’s suited to you. How will my skills develop? You’ll study fascinating subject areas, starting with a module which examines how the management of human resources can contribute to business performance. You will study how this can influence the motivation and engagement of employees, and also explores the legislation businesses must adhere to. In the second term you will examine how organisations select, recruit and develop employees to give them the competitive advantage. New for this year, students will have the opportunity to delve into the growth area of HR analytics. Given this breadth of knowledge, you’ll develop a well-rounded understanding of HRM theory and how to practically apply it. You’ll study The Aston Global Advantage module which focuses on professional development and employability, helping you to apply the key skills that you will gain throughout the year. You’ll will also have the opportunity to study abroad with one of our international partners, undertake an internship placement in the UK or overseas or get involved in a global business challenge simulation. How will this course help my career? You’ll learn the practical skills required of HR practitioners in any organisation. We teach you useful recruitment techniques, how to apply employment law, effective training and development tools and approaches, as well as negotiating skills, which are key to dealing with difficult workplace situations. By gaining these skills, you’ll be well-equipped for a range of graduate roles. Our teaching staff are recognised as experts in their field. We boast a mix of leading academics in HRM, such as Pawan Budhwar, who is world-renowned for his research into the international aspects of HRM. We also have teaching staff who are actively working in consultancy, such as Kathy Daniels who works extensively with the CIPD. Our recent graduates have gone on to secure roles with prestigious national and international organisations, including KPMG, Unilever, Kier and the Civil Service. With a reputation for graduate employability, we can help you fulfil your career aspirations. Our courses offer a range of opportunities to gain practical experience through things such as, consultancy projects and entrepreneurial opportunities. The course concludes with a Business Project, giving you the opportunity to analyse a business problem and practically apply the knowledge and skills developed during the course to outline your recommendations. This will also help to show prospective employers how you are able to impact their business. This course offers an opportunity to study a second degree at one of our international partner institutions once you have completed your year at Aston.