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  • Human Resource Development and Consultancy (MSc)
  • 2013/2014 entry
  • Contact us
  • Assessment

    • Assessment varies for each module and may include essays, reports, examinations, presentations; and an independent applied research project (10,000 words), normally submitted at the end of the final year. Full-time students complete the same number of assessments in one year.

  • Attendance
      • Normally two evenings a week part-time or three evenings a week full-time. Teaching takes place over three terms.
      • Occasional one-day workshops during term-time.
      • Evening sessions are supplemented by a series of one-day workshops. Additional independent study outside the classroom is also required.
  • Duration
      • Two years part-time or one year full-time.
  • Entry requirements
      • A good honours degree, or equivalent, from a recognised university.
      • A good command of the English　language, both written and oral (IELTS score of 7.0 or equivalent for applicants whose first language is not English).　
      • HRD professionals and consultants with at least five or more years of significant experience in a range of organisations may be considered, even if they are unable to meet the formal qualification requirements.

      Find out about our international entry requirements

  • Fees and funding
    • Fees (2013/14)
      • Part-time (home/EU students): £3975 pa
      • Part-time (overseas students): £7425 pa
      • Full-time (home/EU students): £7950 pa
      • Full-time (overseas students): £14,775 pa
  • Location
      • Central London.
  • Teaching

    • All modules combine research-led teaching, experiential forms of learning, and critical self-awareness of the scope and limits of HRD. Students will be introduced to concepts and practices drawn from leading international research.　 The emphasis will be on identifying core principles from relevant research, theories and practices and applying these to relevant organisational contexts. To this end,　teaching　acknowledges participants' current knowledge and past experience, and actively engage them in the process of learning.

      In addition, you will be expected to 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 HRD concepts and principles.

Human Resource Development and Consultancy (MSc) - 2013/2014 entry


  • Overview

    • 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 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. The programme provides an opportunity for graduates and experienced organisational development and HR practitioners to return to academic study in the form of a flexible and intensive course that can be tailored to their particular needs and interests. It is based on a belief in the central importance of self-directed learning, openness to change and collaborative working.

      The programme is intellectually challenging. It integrates training, organisational development, lifelong learning principles and consultancy practice, as well as offering a systematic approach to the design, management and evaluation of programmes to improve personal effectiveness and organisational performance. It has been recognised by the Chartered Institute for Personnel and Development (CIPD).

  • Why study this course at Birkbeck?
      • The programme is Chartered Institute for Personnel and Development approved.
      • Flexible and intensive course that can be tailored to your particular needs and interests.
      • Provides an opportunity for graduates and organisational development and HR practitioners to return to academic study.
      • Considerable emphasis placed on extending interpersonal skills, improving personal performance and developing the analytical skills required in more senior HRD roles.
      • Learn alongside like-minded individuals and taught by lecturers with a range of both academic and professional experience.
  • Professional bodies that recognise this course

    • Approved by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development.

  • Course structure

    • The programme comprises eight compulsory modules*:

      • Professional Development and Learning
      • Organizational Development, Knowledge and Learning
      • Contemporary Challenges in HRD
      • Leading and Developing People
      • Human Resource Strategies
      • Consultancy and Professional Practice
      • International HRM
      • Research Methods.

      You will complete a supervised independent applied research project of 10,000 words. 　

      * modules may be subject to change.

  • Study resources

    • Birkbeck provides a diverse range of library and learning resources designed to facilitate your studies and research. Programme- and module-specific materials are also made available to students to support their learning. 

      Find out more about our student support and study facilities.

  • Further study opportunities
  • Careers information

    • Graduates go on to careers in HRD and HR roles in a variety of settings, including　local and national government, the financial sector, services, manufacturing and charitable organisations.

  • Sample timetable
  • Apply now