MA Human Resource Management

Program Overview

The MA in Human Resource Management at the University of Leeds is a professional and academically rigorous program that focuses on the key elements of HRM, organizational behavior, and people management. The program is designed for individuals who aspire to become HR professionals or advance their careers in human resources and people management. With an emphasis on strategic thinking, leadership, and decision-making, students gain a deep understanding of HRM functions such as recruitment and selection, employee relations, performance management, and organizational development. The program is aligned with the professional standards of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), ensuring that students meet the requirements to become Chartered Members of CIPD upon successful completion of the program.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the MA in Human Resource Management at the University of Leeds is designed to provide students with a comprehensive foundation in HRM practices while allowing them to specialize in areas of interest. Core modules include organizational behavior, human resource development, employee relations, leadership and management, and strategic HRM. These modules cover both the theoretical and practical aspects of HRM, offering students the opportunity to apply their learning to real-world situations. In addition to the core modules, students can choose from a range of elective modules to tailor their learning to their career aspirations, focusing on topics such as international HRM, talent management, and employment law. The program culminates in a dissertation or project, where students are expected to apply their knowledge to a specific HRM challenge, gaining hands-on experience in solving real-world organizational problems.

Research Focus: The University of Leeds is known for its strong research focus, particularly in the field of human resource management. The university’s Business School conducts cutting-edge research on key HRM topics such as employee engagement, talent management, organizational behavior, and the role of HR in fostering innovation and business performance. The research conducted within the School of Business influences both academic theory and HRM practice, ensuring that students are exposed to the latest developments and trends in the field. Students in the MA program benefit from the university’s research expertise, integrating contemporary research findings into their learning. The program also encourages students to engage in their own research projects, allowing them to explore HRM issues in depth and contribute to the advancement of HR practices.

Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a key feature of the MA in Human Resource Management at the University of Leeds. The program benefits from strong links with leading organizations, HR professionals, and industry experts. Students have the opportunity to work on live case studies, consultancy projects, and internships with HR departments in both local and multinational companies. These industry connections provide students with practical experience and the opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge to real business contexts. The university regularly hosts guest speakers and networking events, where students can connect with HR professionals and employers, gaining valuable insights into the current trends and challenges facing HRM today. These industry collaborations help students build a professional network and enhance their career prospects in the competitive HR field.

Global Perspective: The MA in Human Resource Management at the University of Leeds offers a global perspective, reflecting the increasingly international nature of business and HRM. The program draws on global case studies and explores how HR practices vary across different cultures, countries, and regions. Students are encouraged to consider the challenges and opportunities of managing a diverse workforce in a globalized economy, including issues related to cross-cultural communication, international HRM, and the impact of global labor markets. The program attracts a diverse student body from across the world, allowing students to collaborate with peers from various cultural and professional backgrounds. This global outlook ensures that graduates are equipped to manage human resources in multinational organizations and navigate the complexities of global HRM practices.