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  • Human Resource Development and Consultancy (MSc)
  • 2012/2013 entry
  • Contact us
  • Assessment

    • Assessment varies for each module, but includes coursework, essay assignments, examinations, case studies, and a research proposal and dissertation of 10,000–12,000 words.

  • Attendance
      • Part-time: modules and assignments completed over two years, normally up to two evenings a week and occasional one-day workshops during term time.
      • Full-time: all modules and assignments completed over one year, normally at least three evenings a week and regular one-day workshops during term time.
      • Additional independent study outside of 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' 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 (2012/13)
      • Part-time (home/EU students): £3975 pa
      • Part-time (overseas students): £7050 pa
      • Full-time (home/EU students): £7950 pa
      • Full-time (overseas students): £14,075 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. The emphasis will be on identifying core principles from relevant research, theories and practices and applying these to case study organisations. 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. Students will also be introduced to concepts and practices drawn from leading international research.

      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.

      See sample 2010–2011 timetables for part-time Year 1, part-time Year 2, and full-time students.

Human Resource Development and Consultancy (MSc) - 2012/2013 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.

      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.

      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.

      Specifically, the course is designed for non-management graduates, experienced HRD practitioners, or those who might wish to pursue a career in HRD and consultancy.

      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. Considerable emphasis is placed on extending interpersonal skills and developing the analytical skills required in more senior HRD roles.

  • Why study this course at Birkbeck?
      • Integrates academic perspectives with a consultancy and practice-based approach to human resource development.
      • Suitable for graduates, experienced organisational development and HR practitioners.
      • Flexible and intensive course that can be tailored to your particular needs and interests.
      • Approved by CIPD.
  • Professional bodies that recognise this course
    • CIPD.
  • Course structure

    • The programme comprises seven compulsory modules:

      • Module 1: Personal Development and Learning
      • Module 2: Organisational Development and Learning
      • Module 3: Human Resource Strategies
      • Module 4: HRD – Current Issues and Trends
      • Module 5: HRD Consultancy and Professional Practice
      • Module 6: Research Methods
      • Module 7: HRD Dissertation.

      You must complete all seven modules, including the dissertation.

  • 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.

  • Apply now