Human Resource Development and Consultancy

Suitable for graduates, experienced organisational development and HR practitioners, this Master's degree focuses on human resource development (HRD) and consultancy. It takes a strategic approach to people management and organisational development, designed to enhance learning, skills, personal development and performance in the workplace, as well as a range of other topical issues.

This course is intellectually challenging. It integrates learning on training, organisational development, lifelong learning principles and consultancy practice, as well as offering a systematic approach to the design, management and evaluation of programmes to improve personal effectiveness and organisational performance. A substantial aspect of the programme is a management research project that combines the academic rigour of more traditional research dissertations with focus on activities which make a difference to practice in organisations.

All modules taught on this programme place emphasis on bridging cutting-edge academic thinking with direct application to practice, integrating academic perspectives with practice-based approaches to HRD. Considerable emphasis is placed on developing the knowledge and skills required in more senior HRD roles. You will gain an understanding of relevant organisational, psychological and management theory, while examining contemporary developments within the HRD field.

Dedicated sessions will also equip you with skills in consultancy framework and paradigms, including practical methods for applying these. There is a particular focus on ensuring you are aware of the importance of acting ethically and professionally with a demonstrated commitment to equality of opportunity and diversity, and appreciate the importance of continuous personal and professional development.