Human Resource Management - BA (Hons)
September 2021 — UCAS code NN16
This course has recently been updated. Please download the course specification for the up to date information. Our Human Resource Management (HRM) degree equips you with the tools you need to develop the high-performing personnel and innovative teams demanded by business....
96points required
Clearing 2021
There are places available on this course.
Got your results?
Apply online nowWaiting for results?
Get your Clearing GuideStudying with us in 2021/22
It is possible that the 2021/22 academic year may be affected by the ongoing disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. Information about the arrangements the University has put in place for the 2021/22 academic year in response to Covid-19 and the emerging variants can be found here.
Should the impact of Covid-19 continue in subsequent years of your course, any additional and/or alternative arrangements put in place by the University in response will be in accordance with the latest government public health advice, pandemic-related/health and safety legislation, and the terms and conditions of the student contract.
- Level Undergraduate
- Study mode Full Time/Part Time
- Location City Centre
- Award BA (Hons)
- Start date September 2021
- Fees View course fees
- School Birmingham City Business School
- Faculty Faculty of Business, Law and Social Sciences
Clearing 2021
Got your results?
If you've already received your results and have enough points for this course you can apply online now.
Apply nowWaiting for results?
Download our guide to Clearing to prepare ahead of results day and find out the top four things you can do whilst you wait.
Get advicePlease note: the entry requirements listed below are relevant for main cycle applications and may not be applicable during Clearing.
Course overview
This course has recently been updated. Please download the course specification for the up to date information.
Our Human Resource Management (HRM) degree equips you with the tools you need to develop the high-performing personnel and innovative teams demanded by business.
This course teaches you about the importance of motivating and managing people within a business, showing you the link between successful performance and the people you employ.
Drawing upon all aspects of people management enables you not only to gain the building blocks of knowledge and understanding, but also a high degree of professional competence in the field of people management and development.
The course is approved by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), demonstrating the high quality provision of our course. You will keep up-to-date with the latest issues and innovations in human resources, supported by your lecturers who have experience of working with some of the biggest names in business, in manufacturing, retail, services, hospitality or management consultancy.
What's covered in this course?
You will develop your skills through involvement in real projects, field trips, contemporary methods of teaching and interactive workshops. This work-integrated approach to learning means that graduates of this course leave with real, practical experience, working for companies such as CapGemini UK, VirginMedia, CrossCountry Trains and the NHS. This course draws upon all aspects of people management, enabling you not only to build knowledge and understanding, but also a high degree of professional competence in the field of people management and development.
You will have the option to undertake a work placement to gain practical work experience within a business, ensuring you are prepared for a successful career from the moment you graduate. Also, you will be given the opportunity to work on and research real business life problems and present your solutions to the companies who would share their issues with you.
We will develop your attributes, so you’ll graduate with the potential to become a full corporate member of the CIPD.
The international focus of the course is derived through a variety of means including the student body, the teaching team and the use of international teaching materials. Moreover, students can choose to spend a year or a full semester studying their modules overseas at a partner institution.
Why Choose Us?
- This degree course is approved by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD). This means that the course is as professionally relevant and up-to-date as possible, taking into account the very latest developments in the profession.
- On all of our courses you will gain a professional focus and real world experience of human resource management, ensuring you are equipped to make an immediate impact in the business world. You have the opportunity to embark on a year-long professional placement as part of your degree course.
- Everything we do starts with business so naturally we have strong links with key organisations in the local community, such as Birmingham City Council and the NHS, and accrediting bodies such as the CIPD, bringing you closer to industry professionals and providing you with key contacts.
- You’ll hear from leading industry speakers, who will offer relevant, contemporary advice and insight into the latest sector developments.
- Recognising the global scope of business, all our courses have an international focus. This is embedded throughout the curriculum, giving you the opportunity to transform your experience with us into a global one. There are a variety of exciting possibilities open to you, including our many overseas study exchange programmes.
- As a student on one of our undergraduate degrees, you will be able to benefit from our Graduate+ initiative. This three-year award course enables you to gain award levels for all the extra-curricular activities you undertake so that you can stand out from the crowd on graduation.
- Our enthusiastic, approachable staff, who come from all areas of Human Resource Management with some currently still practising privately, have designed every module to bring the key principles to life, with built-in employability and research skills.
- We use real life case studies and hold mock tribunals so your experience is as close as possible to industry practice.
- The course will prepare you for modern management alongside your HRM specialisation, whether you choose to work for a multinational company, the public sector or a not-for-profit organisation.
- You will study in our state-of-the-art City Centre Campus, ideally located for you to take advantage of our links to Birmingham’s business district, one of the largest in the UK.
- You will be able to work on exciting projects for real-life clients through our Business Advice Centre, giving you exposure to the challenges and issues faced by businesses as well as the chance to develop successful solutions. Opportunities are available with local, regional, national and even global businesses such as BMW.
- The Centre also offers expert support for your own entrepreneurial ideas, so you can start planning your own start-up or take your existing business to the next level. Following graduation, you will have the opportunity to apply for STEAMhouse Business Incubator membership.
Find out more
Similar Courses
- Esports Management - BA (Hons) - 2021/22 Entry
- Event, Venue and Experience Management - BA (Hons) - 2021/22 Entry
- Global Sport Management - BA (Hons) - 2021/22 Entry
- Business Management with a Foundation Year - BA (Hons) - 2021/22 Entry
- Business Management - BA (Hons) - 2021/22 Entry
- Business Management with Enterprise - BA (Hons) - 2021/22 Entry
- Business Management with Supply Chain Management - BA (Hons) - 2021/22 Entry
- Global Hospitality Management - BSc (Hons) - 2021/22 Entry
Entry Requirements
96 POINTS
(or equivalent) is the minimum you will need to be considered for this course in Clearing. Use the UCAS Tariff Calculator to work out your points.
Got your results?
If you've already received your results and have enough points for this course you can apply online now.
Apply nowWaiting for results?
Download our guide to Clearing to prepare ahead of results day and get your results day 2020 questions answered.
Get adviceWe accept a range of qualifications, the most popular of which are detailed below.
Essential Requirements
|
BBC or 112 UCAS tariff points from a maximum of 3 subjects. |
||
| Level 2 Qualifications | ||
|---|---|---|
| UK Qualification | Requirements 2021/22 | |
| GCSE |
|
|
| Irish Leaving Certificate (Ordinary Level) |
|
|
| Scottish National 5 |
|
|
| Plus one of the following Level 3 (and above) Qualifications | ||
| UK Qualification | Requirements 2021/22 | |
| A level and Advanced VCE |
|
|
| AAT Diploma in Accounting (QCF) |
|
|
| Access to HE Diploma |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
IBO Certificate in Higher Level |
|
|
|
International Baccalaureate Diploma |
|
|
|
IFS / LIBF Diploma in Financial Studies |
|
|
|
Irish Leaving Certificate (Highers) |
|
|
|
NCFE CACHE Level 3 Applied General Certificate in Health and Social Care |
|
|
|
OCR Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma |
|
|
|
OCR Cambridge Technical Diploma |
|
|
|
OCR Level 3 Cambridge Technical Extended Certificate OCR Level 3 Cambridge Technical Introductory Diploma |
|
|
|
Scottish Advanced Higher |
|
|
|
Scottish Higher |
|
|
|
T-Levels |
|
|
|
Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate - Skills Challenge Certificate (first teaching September 2015) |
|
|
|
Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Diploma – Core (awarded until 2016) ESW/KS Combined component |
|
|
| Other Qualifications | ||
| If you have a qualification that is not listed in the table please refer to our full entry requirements on UCAS. Further guidance on tariff points can be found on the UCAS website. |
||
Additional information for EU/International students
| Essential | ||
|---|---|---|
|
Applications from international applicants with equivalent qualifications to 112 points are welcome. Please see your country page for further details on the equivalent qualifications we accept. In additional to the academic entry requirements listed above, international and EU students will also require the qualifications detailed in this table. |
||
| English language requirements 2020/21 | ||
| IELTS |
6.0 overall with 5.5 minimum in all bands If you do not meet the required IELTS score, you may be eligible for one of our pre-sessional English courses. Please note that you must have a Secure English Language Test (SELT) to study on the pre-sessional English course. More information. |
|
| Other accepted qualifications | Visit our English language page | |
Fees & How to Apply
- UK students
- International students
Award: BA (Hons)
Starting: Sep 2021
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 3 Years
- £9,250 per year
- Apply via Clearing
- Full Time
- 4 Years with Professional Placement
- Show fees
- Apply via Clearing
- Study Year £9,250
- Placement Year £1,650
Professional Placement Fees
Full-Time courses with a Professional Placement incur a fee during the placement year. The costs for those years when you attend the university for study, and the cost for the placement year are shown here.
- Part Time
- 5 Years
- Show fees
- Year 1 (60 credits) £4,700
- Year 2 (80 credits) £6,200
- Year 3 (80 credits) £6,200
- Year 4 (80 credits) £6,200
- Year 5 (60 credits) £4,700
Fees for Part-time students
This course can be studied on a Part-time study basis. The cost per year of study is based on credit requirements for that year as shown here.
Award: BA (Hons)
Starting: Sep 2021
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 3 Years
- £13,200 per year
- Full Time
- 4 Years with Professional Placement
-
TBC
If you're unable to use the online form for any reason, you can complete our PDF application form and equal opportunities PDF form instead.
Places available to start in September 2021
If you'd like to start this course full-time this September, you can apply through Clearing.
Got your results?
If you've already received your results and have enough points for this course you can apply online now.
Apply now
Waiting for results?
Download our guide to Clearing to prepare ahead of results day and get your results day 2021 questions answered.
Get adviceInternational and part-time students can apply online as normal using the links above.
Want to start in September 2022?
You can apply via UCAS from September 2021.
Personal statement
UK / EU students are required to submit a personal statement as part of their application for this course.*
The personal statement gives you a crucial opportunity to say why you’re applying and why the institution should accept you.
Here are the key areas you’ll need to address:
Course choice
Why does this course appeal? What areas are of particular interest?
Career plans
If you have a specific career in mind, say how your chosen course will help you pursue this goal.
Work experience
Mention any work that is relevant to your subject, highlighting the skills and experience gained.
School or college experience
Highlight skills gained at school/college, eg summer schools or mentoring activities.
Non-accredited skills or achievement
eg Duke of Edinburgh Award, Young Enterprise scheme.
You should also mention your future plans – if you’re planning to take a year out, don't forget to give your reasons. Talk about any subjects you’re studying that don’t have a formal assessment and any sponsorships or placements you’ve applied for. And don't be scared to add in details about your social, sports or leisure interests.
Get more information on writing personal statements.
*Non-EU students are not required to submit a personal statement when applying for this course.
Fees for part time students
If you study this course part-time or via distance learning, you will be charged on a pro-rata basis. This means your fee will be calculated per module.
Course in Depth
Year One
In order to complete this course a student must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totaling 120 credits).
20 credits
This module is intended to provide students with a broad understanding of what is meant by employee engagement, including how it can be linked to and yet be distinguished from other related concepts like employee involvement and employee participation.
20 credits
This module will provide a gentle introduction to the world of accounting and finance for business managers of the future and is designed for those new to accounting or those studying on non-accounting related degree programmes.
20 credits
In this module contemporary issues such as pensions, strikes and discrimination, will be explored relative to business and human resource management. These may include internal disputes, change, current EU legislation, and evolving best practice. All of these areas are examined within a political, legal and economic framework. The contents of the module will provide you with an opportunity to engage and consider contemporary issues in human resource management from both UK and international perspectives and how these are addressed through strategy formulation and implementation.
Developing your Personal Brand 20 credits
Principles of Marketing 20 credits
20 credits
This is a core module that introduces the novice learner to the basic concepts of organisational life. It focuses on four main topics, namely individuals, groups, structures, and processes. In essence, it helps the students get an understanding of the workplace and the ways in which employees behave within an organisation. In doing so, the module draws not only on the most prevalent theoretical perspectives, but also on concrete practical examples and case studies from the UK, mainland Europe, and the globe and from organisations in public, private or not-for-profit sectors.
This is a highly interactive type of module that supports students in making an effective and smooth transition to Higher Education while also engaging them in a variety of group discussions, presentations and activities that develop their employability skills.
Year Two
In order to complete this course a student must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totaling 100 credits).
20 credits
This module will enable students to build a strong understanding of the legal issues that impact on the “people” aspects of the business. Both UK and European employment legislation will be explored and enable students to gain an insight into the practical steps employers need to consider, when applying the law. Students will be exposed to both academic knowledge and good practice, shaping their understanding and knowledge further. Applying a practice based approach to the teaching of this module gives students an opportunity to develop important skills that are transferable into the workplace.
20 credits
This module looks at the important contribution that an efficient and effective human resource management capability can add to an organisation. The purpose of this module is to introduce students to human resources (HR) activity and to the role of the HR function in organisations in general terms. It focuses on the aims and objectives of HR departments in contemporary organisations and particularly on the ways that these are evolving. Different ways of delivering HR objectives and emerging developments in the management of the employment relationship are explored, as well as the methods that can be used to demonstrate that the function adds value for organisations.
20 credits
In line with the Faculty’s practice-based approach to teaching and learning this module adopts a ‘real world’ approach to exploring the nature of contemporary organisations and begins to prepare students for the reality of managing/consulting within them. This is necessary because the management of organisations is often presented as a rational process based primarily on the logical implementation of activities such as Planning, Leading, Organising, and Controlling. However, the real world in which managers, consultants and organisations operate tends to be far more irrational and complex.
20 credits
This module gives opportunities to develop your depth of understanding of issues in relation to the development of management competencies to prepare for the workplace, for placement activities and for modern working life. You will have the opportunity to identify, evaluate and record competencies using online platforms.
Cross Cultural Management 20 credits
In order to complete this course a student must successfully complete at least 20 credits from the following list of OPTIONAL modules.
Entrepreneurship in Action 20 credits
The Global Manager 20 credits
20 credits
This module, where a programme of study enables it, is open to BLSS students, who choose to undertake an international Study Abroad or Erasmus+ study outgoing mobility placement within their second year of study. The aim of this module is to enable individuals to explore their mobility experience through a cross-cultural lens that focusses on the key themes of their discipline in an international context, cross-cultural awareness, social construction, and the self. Informed by activities that draw on research enquiry, creativity, culture, employability, reflection and professional development.
All core modules are guaranteed to run. Optional modules will vary from year to year and the published list is indicative only.
Final Year
In order to complete this course a student must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 80 credits).
20 credits
This module takes a practitioner based, blended learning approach towards embedding key Management and Leadership principles in the global context as well as Intercultural competency and a range of transferable employability skills. Consequently, it provides a progressive conduit for students to gain a broad understanding of global issues affecting managers today’s as well as preparing the students to be global managers of the future.
20 credits
The module enables the student to develop an informed understanding of the existing and emerging HRD models and processes. It is designed to encourage students to compare, contrast and evaluate developments in both theory and practice that influence the design, delivery and management of HRD. It also covers what is required to support the learning of individuals, groups and organisations to drive sustained business performance.
20 credits
This module provides an opportunity for you to articulate your potential as an aspiring manager and develop a critical appreciation of the complexities of being an executive manager, for example distinguishing between personal intervention and empowerment, and delegation. Using this insight you will create a multimedia presentation to demonstrate the competencies required of executive managers in the workplace, for example strategic decision making, leadership, effective performance management and managing the corporate reputation.
20 credits
This module covers two major and linked areas of global human resource management policy and practice, namely employee relations and employee reward. The aim of this module is to develop the student's knowledge, understanding and professional competence in the field of employee relations and reward management. An understanding of the relationship between management and employees whether unionised or not– which is central to an effective workplace. The aim is to highlight the importance of the legal framework in managing both employment relations and reward, to examine the strategic choices which employers confront and to examine recent moves from collective to more individualistic relationships.
In order to complete this course a student must choose ONE of the following optional project routes (totalling 40 credits):
Business Advice Project (Major) 40 credits
Business Research Project (Major) 40 credits
Business Start-Up Project (Major) 40 credits
Community Advice Project (Major) 40 credits
Employability Project (Major) 40 credits
Economics Research Project (Major) 40 credits
Business Research Methodology and Practice + Business Research Project 40 credits
Business Research Methodology and Practice + Business Start-Up Project 40 credits
Business Research Methodology and Practice + Community Advice Project 40 credits
All core modules are guaranteed to run. Optional modules will vary from year to year and the published list is indicative only.
Course Structure
You will experience a variety of teaching methods, ranging from a traditional lecture to a workshop, enabling you to lead a group discussion and improve your confidence. You will also attend seminars, where you explore more in-depth topics.
Our modules are delivered using a range of interactive IT interventions, which add a further element of fun and interaction to the learning process.
Each of the modules you study will be supported by Moodle, our virtual learning environment. Here you will find an outline of your modules, the assessments they entail and additional material that’ll help your subject understanding.
Assessment will vary from exams, to presentations, reports and posters.
Trips and Visits
During your second year, you will be able to take part in an international field trip, taking what you have studied and apply it to a global organisation. In 2016, students visited the EU Parliament in Brussels, gaining valuable first-hand experience of an established international organisation.
Company visits will also take place in each year of study and in recent years, students have visited businesses such as Cadbury World, BMW and Jaguar Land Rover.
This course is approved by:
Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development
Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development
Approved by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development. This allows successful students to upgrade their Student Membership to that of Associate Membership of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (Assoc CIPD).
Employability
Enhancing employability skills
Graduates will have the courage, confidence and enterprising spirit to make a valued contribution within their workplace.
They are encouraged to take part in the University’s comprehensive Graduate + programme, engage with the regular guest lectures by leading industry figures and attend CIPD events.
Placements
You will have access to placement opportunities through the Placement Office. In previous years, students have undertaken placements with established companies such as Hewlett Packard, Audi and Bosch.
OpportUNIty
OpportUNIty: Student Jobs on Campus ensures that our students are given a first opportunity to fill many part-time temporary positions within the University. This allows you to work while you study with us, fitting the job around your course commitments. By taking part in the scheme, you will gain valuable experiences and employability skills, enhancing your prospects in the job market.
It will also allow you to become more involved in University life by delivering, leading and supporting many aspects of the learning experience, from administration to research and mentoring roles.
Business Advice Centre
The Business Advice Centre (BAC) is the Business School's hub that offers a range of support services to you throughout each stage of your student learning experience.
We have a range of support solutions for students as well as opportunities to enhance your employability and entrepreneurial qualities.
Whether you are considering starting your business, connecting with real companies or enhancing your graduate opportunities, the Business Advice Centre can help you.
More on our Business Advice CentreInternational Students
Welcome to the Birmingham City Business School, home to students from over 70 countries all around the world!
Birmingham City Business School is one of the UK’s largest, most established and most respected business schools. Our programmes are practice based and many have an international focus, which means your course will be entirely relevant to today’s business world. Almost all of our courses, both at undergraduate and postgraduate level, are open to international students.
We also have links with universities across the world, including Europe, the USA, China, India and Malaysia.
International ServicesOur international students
Carina Matyssek came to us from Germany and is now doing an MA funded by a large, multinational organisation. This means she can work full-time in human resources, while gaining her MA degree.
Our accreditation from CIPD also attracts international students because it shows we have recognised high standards and gives our students the option to gain membership.
We’ve been told that our role-play workshops give international students the chance to practice their language skills in a work environment, and they get to quiz our expert visitors one-on-one to see what actually happens in a UK company.
Facilities and Staff
Our Facilities
We are constantly investing in our estate and are currently in the process of spending £340 million on new learning facilities.
The Curzon Building
This course is based at our City Centre Campus – and specifically The Curzon Building, alongside other Social Sciences, Law, Business and English students.
The £63m building offers students a unique social learning space, including a dedicated student hub incorporating student support services, in the heart of Birmingham’s Eastside development.
The Business floors house an extensive number of IT facilities, breakout areas, and specialised rooms. The Marketing Link Agency is designed to replicate a modern marketing firm, allowing students to get real-life experience of working in the marketing sector. There is also the City Trading Room, which features state of the art stock market tracking equipment, keeping you up to date with all the financial comings and goings of the London Stock Exchange and Wall Street.
The Curzon building is also conveniently close to Birmingham’s business and financial centre, allowing for strong links between your studies and the real world.
The Curzon Building also features:
- An impressive new library with access to over 65 million full text items and stunning views of Eastside City Park
- Your Students’ Union which is located in a beautifully restored 19th century pub, The Eagle and Ball
- A modern 300-seat food court with space to study and socialise
- Brand new, accessible IT facilities with full Office365 for all students for free
- Shared facilities with the wider campus including the recently opened Parkside Building and Millennium Point
Our staff
Sukhwinder Salh
Visiting Fellow
Sukhwinder Salh teaches on a number of the undergraduate courses within the business school. Her teaching practice is informed not only from her academic knowledge but also her experience as a HR practitioner, where she worked in a range of industries including finance, retail, not for profit and public sector.
More about Sukhwinder