Human Resource Management

Human resource management is the discipline that sits behind every well-run organisation, concerned with how people are recruited, developed, motivated, rewarded and supported throughout their working lives. It draws on psychology, sociology, economics and organisational theory to understand how the relationship between individuals and their employers works, and how that relationship can be structured to benefit both. As organisations face increasing complexity in workforce planning, employment law, diversity and inclusion, and the changing nature of work itself, the expertise of skilled HR professionals has never been more important.

This part-time programme at Birmingham City University equips you with the tools needed to develop high-performing workforces and the innovative, flexible and enterprising teams that modern businesses demand. Drawing on all aspects of people management, you will build not only theoretical knowledge but a high degree of professional competence and real-world experience. You will study organisational behaviour, employment relations, talent management, reward, learning and development, and the strategic dimensions of HR that connect people management to business performance.

The programme includes a sandwich placement year and embedded work placement opportunities, giving you direct professional experience that brings your academic learning to life, and the part-time structure allows you to balance study with existing work or other commitments.

Human resource management opens doors across every sector, since every organisation that employs people needs HR expertise. Graduates work in HR departments and specialist HR consultancies, in employment law, in management consultancy, in recruitment and talent acquisition, and in operational management roles. The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development provides the professional framework most commonly pursued by graduates entering the HR profession.

Postgraduate study in HRM, organisational psychology, employment relations or business management is another route, particularly for those interested in research or senior leadership.