BA (Hons) Business and Human Resource Management

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Business and Human Resource Management program provides a balanced and integrated study of business management principles and the strategic function of HRM. It emphasizes a holistic approach, demonstrating how effective people management is fundamental to achieving organizational goals and maintaining a competitive advantage. The program encourages students to understand both the broader business context and the specific challenges and opportunities associated with managing a diverse workforce. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, case studies, and practical exercises, students learn to apply business and HRM concepts to real-world scenarios.

Curriculum: The curriculum is structured to provide a progressive learning experience, starting with foundational modules in business principles, economics, and organizational behavior. Students then delve into core business disciplines alongside specialized HRM modules. These include recruitment and selection, employee relations, learning and development, performance management, reward management, employment law, and strategic human resource management. The program also covers important aspects of business ethics, organizational change, and leadership, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of the organizational landscape. Students develop crucial skills in communication, negotiation, problem-solving, and teamwork, essential for effective HRM practice. Opportunities for experiential learning, such as HR simulations and projects, further enhance their practical skills.

Research Focus: The University of Worcester fosters a research-informed teaching environment within its Business School, which directly benefits the BA (Hons) Business and Human Resource Management program. Faculty members are actively engaged in research across various areas of business and HRM, including employee engagement, organizational culture, diversity and inclusion, talent management, and the future of work. Students benefit from being taught by academics who are at the forefront of their fields and may have opportunities to engage with research through their studies and final-year dissertations. The program aims to cultivate a research-oriented mindset, encouraging students to critically evaluate HRM theories and practices and apply evidence-based approaches to people management.

Industry Engagement: The BA (Hons) Business and Human Resource Management program places a strong emphasis on preparing students for successful careers in HR and broader business roles. The curriculum often incorporates real-world case studies, guest lectures from HR professionals, and opportunities for networking. The University of Worcester actively seeks to build and maintain links with local, regional, and national businesses and HR organizations. This engagement may include opportunities for internships, placements, and collaborative projects, providing students with valuable practical experience and insights into the professional world. The aim is to ensure that graduates possess the skills and knowledge that are highly valued by employers in the HR and business sectors.

Global Perspective: The University of Worcester welcomes a diverse international student body, enriching the learning experience within the BA (Hons) Business and Human Resource Management program. The principles and practices of HRM are increasingly global in nature, and the program encourages students to develop an understanding of international HRM, cross-cultural management, and the challenges of managing a global workforce. Case studies and discussions often incorporate international examples, and students have opportunities to interact with peers from various cultural backgrounds, fostering a global perspective essential for success in today's interconnected business world.