ARCHIVE: UNIVERSITY OF EAST LONDON POSTGRADUATE PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION MA Human Resource Management This programme is only offered at: UNIVERSITY OF EAST LONDON Final award Intermediate awards available MA Postgraduate Diploma in Human Resource Management Mode of delivery Details of professional body accreditation Relevant QAA Benchmark statements Date specification last updated UEL on campus Chartered Institute for Personnel and Development (CIPD) The QAA Type 1 Specialist Masters Degree 3.5.2016 Alternative locations for studying this programme Location Which elements? Taught by UEL staff Taught by local staff Method of Delivery NA NA NA NA NA 1
The summary - Programme advertising leaflet Programme content The main aim of the programme is to equip students with the knowledge, understanding and key skills-set required by Human Resource (HR) professionals working in diverse, global and dynamic organizations. The programme will critically explore a range of HRM topics impacting organizational life including; social responsibility and ethical decision-making, global resourcing and talent management, comparative employee relations, knowledge management and organizational learning and HR strategy and leadership development. As a CIPD Advanced Level Approved programme students will gain practical know-how in embedding HR strategies and activities such as coaching and mentoring, performance management and managing redundancies. A range of essential competencies for effective global HR practice will also be developed including critical self-awareness and self-reflection, sensitivity to diversity in people and in different situations and enhanced performance within multi-cultural team environments and the ability to negotiate and influence others. Key Features CIPD Approved Advanced level qualification. Successful completion with the relevant HR experience will lead to Chartered CIPD status Learn in a global environment and benefit from the diverse background and experiences of your student peers Dedicated HR skills development workshops; including leadership skills and influencing and negotiating Gain a postgraduate HR qualification with global reach and application The flexibility to combine work and study through evening study and weekend workshops Entry requirements A good bachelor s degree with a minimum of a 2.2 or equivalent in any subject. Candidates should also demonstrate in their personal statement the commitment to study HRM and how they think this qualification will support the development of their HR or people management career. CIPD Level 3 (Foundation) or Level 5 (Intermediate) qualification with relevant work experience in the field of HR/people management/employability/careers or recruitment. Candidates will be invited for an interview and asked to provide a work sample of academic work. Students that apply to enter stages of the programme may be admitted through normal Accreditation of Experiential Learning (AEL) or Accreditation of Certificated Learning (ACL) processes, or through an approved articulation agreement. Therefore such applicants must be able to demonstrate and evidence that they have the required learning outcomes as listed in the modules for which they are seeking exemption. In the case of applicants whose first language is not English, then IELTS 6.5 (or equivalent) is required with a minimum of 6 in any component. 2
At UEL we are committed to working together to build a learning community founded on equality of opportunity - a learning community which celebrates the rich diversity of our student and staff populations. Discriminatory behaviour has no place in our community and will not be tolerated. Within a spirit of respecting difference, our equality and diversity policies promise fair treatment and equality of opportunity for all. In pursuing this aim, we want people applying for a place at UEL to feel valued and know that the process and experience will be transparent and fair and no one will be refused access on the grounds of any protected characteristic stated in the Equality Act 2010. Programme structure Students can enrol on a full or part time basis. A typical student registered in a full-time attendance mode will study modules equating to 60 credits per term and a typical student registered in a part-time attendance mode will study modules equating to 30 per term. In Term 2 students are required to select two options from three modules. All other modules on the programme are core. The Dissertation is completed during Term 3 (May-September) for September starters and during Term 2 (January May) for February starters. Learning environment All modules will comprise of a combination of lectures and participative seminars, guest speakers and on 30 credit modules weekend skills development workshops. Face-to-face learning will be supported by comprehensive on-line support with all resources used on the modules available electronically. In accordance with the main aims of the programme we view the learning environment as highly participative and student-led. Teaching on modules is designed for students to share their learning and ideas and values that have shaped their understanding and application of key theories and techniques. Students are encouraged to give each other feedback in the competency development workshops, after receiving coaching from tutors in giving effective and supportive feedback. It is recognised that many of the students on the programme bring a wealth of HR and people management experience and students have strengths in different areas of practice and theoretical knowledge. As such, students will be encourage to form Action Learning Sets both within and outside of class so they can benefit from each other s varied practitioner and academic experience. Group work will be key feature of learning activities in order to address the main aims of the programme, which include improving decision making and performance within multi-cultural teams. As reflective practice and continuous development are essential competencies for an effective HR practitioner both activities are built into learning activities. To illustrate; at the end of seminars and workshops students will be encouraged to reflect on the practitioner and theoretical knowledge gained. Students will be required to maintain a learning and continuous professional development log whilst on the programme. The logs will include reflection on the students own learning and how they can apply their learning to support the careers and leadership development of others both on the programme and in organizations they work for. Assessment All the summative assessments on the module contribute to the final award classification. Module assessment is designed to demonstrate achievement against all the learning outcomes, which also correspond to the CIPDs Advanced Level 7 qualification learning outcomes, including HR specific skills. A variety of assessments are employed to measure a broad range 3
of subject specific practical and theoretical skills and knowledge including; case study analysis and individual reports, group consultancy reports, reflective accounts, group presentations, individual essays and exams. Formative assessment is an integral part of each module and students will be provided with extensive opportunities to assess their own progress and learning. Students with disabilities and/or particular learning needs should discuss assessments with the Programme Leader to ensure they are able to fully engage with all assessment within the programme. Relevance to work/profession Throughout the programme students will be developing essential HR competencies to support their employability and progression within the workplace. Students currently in employment will be asked to reflect on decision-making, structures and leadership behaviours in their organizations in both formative and summative assessments. For full time students exposure to real organisations will be provided through case studies and consultancy assignments. All students on the programme will be required to produce an Applied Management Research Report that addresses a live policy or business issue from an HR perspective. Students will take part in a negotiation exercise from a real-life employment relations case, which requires them to demonstrate and reflect on their influencing, business solving skills and ability to identify and evaluate management decisions available to them. These examples illustrate how throughout the programme students learning will be embedded in real life/time business problems to support their applied understanding of HRM. At the heart of the programme is employability so all modules have practical take homes that students can apply in the work place including; - Design and delivery of recruitment campaigns - Undertaking competency based interviewing - Design and delivery of leadership assessment centres - Negotiation and influencing training - Dedicated employment law updates - Project management skills - Internal and external consultancy skills Dissertation/project work A key learning outcome for students to demonstrate on the programme is their ability to operate in a variety of team roles and take leadership roles where appropriate. In order to develop these competencies students will undertake a leadership development assessment skills workshop where they will work in teams with different allocated roles to solve business issues and to explore their behaviours in teams and in leadership roles. Students will then create a development plan to explore and improve areas of individual strength and weakness. Seminar exercises will be designed to encourage team working. 4
In conjunction with developing team working skills students will be encouraged to think independently and how to effectively develop arguments and influence others. Students will support the development of their ability to devise and address research questions for their Applied Management Research Report and Dissertation. Added value Student CIPD member for your duration of your studies Access to CIPD branch events held at USS Professional enhancement of leadership and people management capabilities and competencies through dedicated skills workshops Teaching staff with a complementary blend of academic and HR practitioner experience to support your development as effective HR and people management practitioners Leadership and personal effectiveness development exercises with experienced SHL consultants and assessors Your future career The CIPD is the world s largest internationally recognised Chartered HR professional body and as such on successful completion of the programme combined with the right HR or people management experience you will gain Associate or Chartered CIPD membership status. The programme has been designed to support individuals at different stages of their HR, people management or consultancy careers. The programme will support graduating students to begin a career in HR and students that are in entry-level HR positions. In addition, the programme caters for more experienced HR professionals that are seeking to advance their careers through a Masters programme that is CPID approved. The leadership skills and people management knowledge gained will also support generalist management and leadership roles. Attainment of the Masters qualification would also enable interested students to pursue a PhD programme in a related field. How we support you On joining the programme you will have access to a dedicated programme team who will support you throughout your programme of study. The programme team prides itself in providing tailored pastoral and academic support to all students on the programme. This will start with a comprehensive induction to the programme and the learning resources available to you at. All learning resources will be available to you electronically in advance of your lectures so you can prepare for classes and plan your learning. You are provided with a Samsung Tablet at the start of your programme, which allows you to access UELs electronic learning and support services instantly. The programme leader is your personal tutor for the duration of your studies and you will meet regularly with them to discuss your progress. In conjunction with the extensive study and learning support services available at UEL the programme leader will tailor a learning package to meet your needs. In addition, during your applied project and/or dissertation, you will have a dedicated supervisor to provide guidance and assist you in formulating and developing your chosen research topic. 5
Bonus factors CIPD student membership Exposure to industry practitioners through placements, research projects and guest speakers. Dedicated HR skills workshop that will develop your competencies as an HR practitioner Psychometric tests and analysis with experienced SHL assessors A participative learning and networking environment with other HR practitioners and senior managers. 6
Programme aims and learning outcomes What is this programme designed to achieve? This programme is designed to give you the opportunity to: Gain the knowledge, understanding and key skills-set required by HR professionals working in diverse, global and dynamic organizations Critique the implications of increasing globalisation for the management of people in multinational and national organizations Manage complex global business issues from an HR perspective in a systematic and creative manner and make sound judgements and action plans Understand and proactively recognise how new knowledge can be applied to make effective HR interventions to support sustained organizational performance What will you learn? Knowledge Understanding of theoretical, strategic and policy issues impacting the management of people in the global context Critical awareness of the concept of globalization and its contribution to the pace of change within national and multinational organizations. Critical awareness of the range of national, regional and local cultural and institutional influences that impact on the HRM practices of global organizations Thinking skills Analysing, synthesising and solving complex business issues from an HR perspective Locate theoretical knowledge within the context of professional experience and reflect on preconceptions and subjectivity to manage complex situations holistically Recognise and address ethical dilemmas, corporate social responsibility and sustainability issues, applying ethical and organisational values to situations and choices Subject-Based Practical skills Select appropriate leadership style for different situations Utilise individuals' contributions in group processes and to negotiate and persuade or influence others Conduct performance management through setting targets, motivating, coaching and mentoring Skills for life and work (general skills) Conduct research into business and management issues through research design, data collection, analysis, synthesis and reporting Strong interpersonal skills to communicate agreed solutions effectively and efficiently to a range of internal and external specialists/stakeholders Reflect on and learn from prior experience and integrate new knowledge with past experience and apply it to new situations 7
The programme structure Introduction All programmes are credit-rated to help you to understand the amount and level of study that is needed. One credit is equal to 10 hours of directed study time (this includes everything you do e.g. lecture, seminar and private study). Credits are assigned to one of 5 levels: 3 equivalent in standard to GCE 'A' level and is intended to prepare students for year one of an undergraduate degree programme 4 equivalent in standard to the first year of a full-time undergraduate degree programme 5 equivalent in standard to the second year of a full-time undergraduate degree programme 6 equivalent in standard to the third year of a full-time undergraduate degree programme 7 equivalent in standard to a Masters degree Credit rating The overall credit-rating of this programme is 180 for Masters and 120 for PG Diploma Typical duration Full-time and part-time students can enrol in September and January. If a student enrols in September on a full time basis they will complete their studies in three terms, completing the following September. Part-time September starters would complete their studies in 6 terms. If a student enrols full-time in January they will complete their studies in 16 months. How the teaching year is divided The teaching year is divided into three terms. A typical student registered in a full-time attendance mode will study modules equating to 60 credits per term and a typical student registered in a part-time attendance mode will study modules equating to 30 credits per term. The Dissertation is completed during the summer term (May-September) for September starters and during Term 2 (January May) for February starters. 8
What you will study when The below table reflects the programme structure when starting in September. January starters will complete the same modules but starting with the Term 2 modules. Level UEL Module Code Available by distance learning (Y/N) Term 1 (September-January) 7 HR7230 N Global HRM and Leadership in Context 7 HR7233 N Comparative employment relations Module Title Credit Status 30 Core 15 Core 7 HR7234 N Employment Law 15 Core Term 2 (February-June) 7 HR7231 N Leading, Managing and Developing Global Talent 7 HR7232 N International Knowledge management and organizational learning 7 HR7246 N Business Research and Consultancy 15 Core 15 Core 30 Core Term 3 7 HR7237 N Dissertation 60 Core Requirements for gaining an award In order to gain a Postgraduate Diploma, you will need to obtain 120 credits at Level 7 In order to obtain a Masters, you will need to obtain 180 credits at Level 7. These credits will include a 60 credit level 7 core module of advanced independent research. Masters Award Classification Where a student is eligible for an Masters award then the award classification is determined by calculating the arithmetic mean of all marks and applying the mark obtained as a percentage, with all decimals points rounded up to the nearest whole number, to the following classification 70% - Distinction 100% 60%- 69% Merit 9
50% - 59% Pass 0% - 49% Not passed Further information Once enrolled on the MA HRM you become a student member of the CIPD. This requires an additional fee ( 90) made payable to the CIPD. You benefit from access to all of the CIPDs online learning resources and access to their library based at their headquarters in Wimbledon. If students do not enact their CIPD student membership this can affect their future CIPD membership status on successful completion of the programme. Teaching, learning and assessment Teaching and learning Knowledge is developed through Lectures and seminars Guided reading Knowledge-based activities with feedback Guest speakers Thinking skills are developed through Reflective activities with feedback Online discussions and activities Practical skills are developed through HR competency and skills development workshops Interactive seminar exercises Investigating a business issue from an HR perspective Skills for life and work (general skills) are developed through Group and project based work Strategic thinking and planning Making costed action plans Assessment Knowledge is assessed by Case study analysis and report Essays Examinations Thinking skills are assessed by Coursework Examinations Independent research report 10
Practical skills are assessed by Group report and presentation Skills workshop and individual reflection Skills for life and work (general skills) are assessed by Individual Applied Management Research Report Group presentation Continuing professional development log 11
How we assure the quality of this programme Before this programme started Before this programme started, the following was checked: there would be enough qualified staff to teach the programme adequate resources would be in place the overall aims and objectives were appropriate the content of the programme met national benchmark requirements the programme met any professional/statutory body requirements the proposal met other internal quality criteria covering a range of issues such as admissions policy, teaching, learning and assessment strategy and student support mechanisms This is done through a process of programme approval which involves consulting academic experts including some subject specialists from other institutions. How we monitor the quality of this programme The quality of this programme is monitored each year through evaluating: external examiner reports (considering quality and standards) statistical information (considering issues such as the pass rate) student feedback Drawing on this and other information, programme teams undertake the annual Review and Enhancement Process which is co-ordinated at School level and includes student participation. The process is monitored by the Quality and Standards Committee. Once every six years an in-depth review of the whole subject area is undertaken by a panel that includes at least two external subject specialists. The panel considers documents, looks at student work, speaks to current and former students and speaks to staff before drawing its conclusions. The result is a report highlighting good practice and identifying areas where action is needed. The role of the programme committee This programme has a programme committee comprising all relevant teaching staff, student representatives and others who make a contribution towards the effective operation of the programme (e.g. library/technician staff). The committee has responsibilities for the quality of the programme. It provides input into the operation of the Review and Enhancement Process and proposes changes to improve quality. The programme committee plays a critical role in the quality assurance procedures. The role of external examiners The standard of this programme is monitored by at least one external examiner. External examiners have two primary responsibilities: To ensure the standard of the programme; 12
To ensure that justice is done to individual students. External examiners fulfil these responsibilities in a variety of ways including: Approving exam papers/assignments Attending assessment boards Reviewing samples of student work and moderating marks Ensuring that regulations are followed Providing feedback through an annual report that enables us to make improvements for the future The external examiner reports for this programme are located on the UEL virtual learning environment (Moodle) on the school notice board under the section entitled External Examiner Reports & Responses. You can also view a list of the external examiners for the UEL School by clicking on the link below. http://www.uel.ac.uk/qa/currentexternalexaminers.htm Listening to the views of students The following methods for gaining student feedback are used on this programme: Module evaluations; mid-term and at the end of the module Student representation on programme committees Regular one-to-ones with the programme leader Students are notified of the action taken through: Circulating the minutes of the programme committee Updates to module Moodle sites Providing details on the programme noticeboard Individual responses to students as required Postings on our online discussion forums Listening to the views of others The following methods are used for gaining the views of other interested parties:. Consultation with the CIPD Quality assurance team on the design and structure of the new programme Review of CIPD moderation reports, including the June 2015 reapproved visit Annual student satisfaction questionnaire on both the MA in IHRM and HRM External examiners on existing MA in HRM programmes Members of the CIPD East London Branch Committee Current and previous students UEL International Office Further information 13
You will be based at University Square Stratford close to the business and financial centres of the City of London and Canary Wharf. You will benefit from the new facilities and purpose-built learning environment and you will be in close proximity to major transport hubs at Stratford International station. You will also have access to two state-of-the-art libraries that can be accessed 24 hours a day during term time. On enrolment you also receive a tablet where you can download and access the core texts for modules and access UEL s comprehensive electronic learning and support services at anytime. 14
Where you can find further information Further information about this programme is available from: The UEL web site (http://www.uel.ac.uk) The student handbook available on all your Moodle sites Module study guides available on your Moodle sites UEL Manual of General Regulations http://www.uel.ac.uk/qa/ UEL Quality Manual http://www.uel.ac.uk/qa/ Regulations for the Academic Framework http://www.uel.ac.uk/academicframework/ School web pages (http://www.royaldocksbusiness.com/ CIPD www.cipd.co.uk 15