Course summary
Our MPA Masters in Public Administration (Human Resources) is aimed at those who aspire to a career in public administration, public sector management or public services and who have a particular interest in human resource development and management. The MPA is an international masters programme which will encourage you to consider and analyse how a changing global environment has shaped the ways in which work is organised and managed and how ideas about leadership and management may be applied in response to different problems and challenges. The Human Resources MPA pathway is designed for those who are interested in human resource management and development in the public, state or NGO sectors in developing, transitional or newly-industrialised countries. This is primarily a public sector management, not a business management, programme, although the themes covered are relevant to both sectors. On this pathway you will explore current and recent trends in public administration and human resources, focusing on relationship between hard and soft approaches to the analysis and practice of management. For example, between human resources management and human resource development. You will also examine the interaction between organisational structure, culture, power and motivation in public administration and in international organisations. The degree uses a diagnostic case study approach in its core modules, with an emphasis on practical, theoretically-informed discussion and strategy development. You may choose any relevant subject for your dissertation, with the final topic agreed between you and your assigned supervisor.
Modules
This pathway is designed for flexibility, allowing you to choose half of the MPA taught content from a wide range of optional modules. The degree has three 20 credit core modules: Human Resource Development Policy Human Resource Management and Development Research for Public Policy and Management You will take a further 60 taught credits and complete a 60 credit dissertation plus you will need to choose one of these modules: Public Management and Leadership Public Sector Reform
Assessment method
A range of assessment methods are used, with both formative and summative assessment. Assessment methods may include essays, policy briefs and presentations. A dissertation of no more than 12,000 words is also required.
Entry requirements
An upper second-class Honours degree or equivalent from an approved university or an equivalent professional qualification in a relevant field (the equivalent US Grade Point Average is 3.0) or A lower second-class Honours degree from an approved university with excellent work experience. Adequate capacity in written and spoken English. Degrees from all disciplines are considered and a candidate's work experience can also be taken into consideration.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
No fee information has been provided for this course
Additional fee information
Provider information
University of Birmingham
Edgbaston
Birmingham
B15 2TT