Course summary

If you’re passionate about the growth and development aspects of human resources, consider the Human Resource Development MSc. Delivered by the triple-accredited Aston Business School, this programme is designed for individuals who want to focus on cultivating employee potential, enhancing organisational capabilities, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Although Human Resource Development is rooted in the broader HR function, it emphasises developing people and organisations to increase long-term effectiveness and adaptability. This MSc equips you with skills to employ organisational development and coaching interventions that drive cultural, behavioural, and developmental change. As an Human Resource Development specialist, you’ll be prepared to create and implement strategies that streamline processes, enhance organisational culture, and build a skilled, adaptable workforce. Unlike traditional HR programmes focused on compliance and policy, this course centres on talent and career development, organisational learning, and strategic workforce management - empowering you to shape the future of any organisation. Improving our students’ learning experience and wellbeing is at the centre of everything we do, and that is why we are implementing an innovative learning approach known as block teaching. This will enhance our students’ educational journey and emotional wellbeing. 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. What you will learn Throughout this programme, you will cover a large breadth of human resource topics from leadership for transformational change to digital HR and people analytics. You will look at areas such as people resourcing and talent management and strategic learning and development. You will also specialise in the areas of HR that are key to development - coaching and organisational development. Focusing on these areas will allow you to increase your knowledge and skill-set and prioritise individual, team, and organisational growth through practical coaching and organisational strategies. In the Strategic Workplace Learning and Development module, you'll gain hands-on experience in designing, delivering, and evaluating impactful training programmes that align with business goals. In the dissertation phase, you will complete an independent project, showcasing your ability to conduct independent research with a clear consideration of ethics, theory and methods in human resource development.