Human Resource Development and Consultancy

MSc Human Resource Development and Consultancy

Full-Time Programme

This programme focuses on human resource development (HRD) - a strategic approach to people management and organisational development, designed to enhance learning, skills, personal development and performance within the workplace.

The programme is based on a belief in the central importance of self-directed learning, openness to change and collaborative working.

The programme combines research-led teaching, experiential forms of work-based learning, and critical self-awareness of the scope and limits of HRD. Throughout the programme, the emphasis will be on identifying core principles from relevant research, theories and practices and applying these to cases drawn from participants' personal experience in the workplace. To this end, many classes will take the form of experiential workshops which acknowledge participants' current knowledge and past experience, and actively engage them in the process of learning, applying core change management development principles, while also understanding their limitations.

In addition, students will be expected to set up and take part in a number of learning forums outside the classroom, such as peer review groups and learning sets, and to undertake personal study to develop a critical awareness of a range of core change management concepts and principles.

Assessment

Assessment varies for each module, but includes a personal development plan, essay assignments, an examination, work-based projects, and a research proposal and dissertation.

Study Resources

Birkbeck provides a diverse range of library and learning resources designed to facilitate your studies and research.

Special Features

There is an increasing need for Master's programmes that integrate specialisations within the field of HRD into broader and more integrated frameworks. The design of this programme recognises that the barriers that once separated specialists in training and development, career planning, organisational learning, performance management, organisational change and consultancy practice are disappearing.

Suitable For:

• Who want a self-development style master's in HRD and consultancy that can be tailored to their needs, special interests and career goals.
• Already in a HRD or consulting role who want a postgraduate programme that combines personal learning, theoretical challenge and practical knowledge.
• Seeking more flexible forms of course delivery than currently offered by other institutions.
• Seeking an organisation consulting qualification as preparation for a career in HRD.
• Wishing to enhance their professional knowledge and consultancy practice across a range of organisational settings.

Entry Requirement:

• A good honours degree, or equivalent, from a recognised university.
• A good command of the English language, both written and oral (IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent for applicants whose first language is not English).
• Holders of the Postgraduate Diploma in Management or the Extra-Mural Diploma in Management may apply for this award. Diploma holders must normally have a grade of Merit. Credits are transferable between awards and applicants holding the Postgraduate Diploma in Management or Extra-Mural Diploma may qualify for some exemptions.
• Management development professionals and consultants with at least five or more years' significant management experience in a range of organisations may be considered.