COURSE OVERVIEW

The MSc International Human Resource Management (HRM) is designed to prepare you for an outstanding career in people management and human resources.

Building on Birkbeck’s critical and analytical approach to learning and utilising the research and teaching excellence of our staff, the programme provides a unique bridge between theory and practice. Throughout the course you will acquire an in-depth, critical understanding of contemporary debates in international human resource management (HRM) and employment relations, whilst developing essential skills for your future career.

The course focuses on the socio-economic and managerial aspects of international HRM, exploring in depth the role and impact of the economy, society and national and global institutions in business policies and practices. Graduates of the programme will obtain a strong social sciences and management background in understanding the content and processes of international HRM.

The modules cover advanced HRM, employment relations, and international business topics and concepts, discuss the structure of the global economy and the role of multinational corporations and of globalisation in shaping local and global realities, and examine contemporary topics such as corporate governance and business ethics.

Across the three taught semesters you will study seven compulsory modules, introducing you to the principles and concepts of HRM in different contexts. At the same time, you will build an understanding of research methodologies to prepare you for your dissertation - an independent research project on a topic of your choice that you will submit by the end of your course. Beyond this, you will choose an option module that allows you to focus on your interests and career intentions. You could gain specialist knowledge in topics such as training and development, performance management, occupational psychology, diversity management and many others.

CAREERS AND EMPLOYABILITY

Graduates can pursue career paths in human resources, general management, and consulting in local, national, and international businesses, governments, and NGOs. Possible professions include:

human resources professional

management consultant

policy consultant for governments, trade unions and NGOs