Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

The Fast Track MSc combines core HR theory with practical application, delivered over an intensified timetable. You study contemporary human resource management topics alongside a substantial applied project or dissertation that demonstrates your ability to apply evidence-based practice in a real organisational context.

• HRM in Context — foundations of HRM, strategic alignment with organisational goals, and the external and internal environments that shape HR policy.
• Resourcing and Talent Management — recruitment, selection, workforce planning, employer branding and early talent development.
• Learning and Development — approaches to staff development, training design and evaluation, coaching and career development.
• Reward and Performance Management — pay structures, benefits, incentive systems and linking performance management to organisational objectives.
• Employment Relations and Law — employment legislation, collective relations, negotiation and conflict resolution in the workplace.
• Research Methods for HR — quantitative and qualitative methods, data analysis, and the design of applied HR research.
• Applied Project or Dissertation — an extended piece of work, often undertaken with an employer, demonstrating your capacity to diagnose and advise on a real HR issue.

The fast-track format reduces the overall duration by compressing teaching blocks and assessments into an accelerated schedule while maintaining the same learning outcomes as the standard MSc. Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, case studies, simulations and employer-led workshops.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an undergraduate degree in any discipline from a recognised institution. Candidates with a good honours degree in a related subject (for example business, management, psychology or social sciences) or equivalent professional experience are welcomed. Applicants without a traditional academic background but with substantial relevant workplace experience may be considered on an individual basis.

International applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English at postgraduate level (via an approved test or recognised qualifications). You may also be asked to provide a CV and references, and to attend an interview or submit a personal statement outlining your motivation for the programme and your career aims.

Career prospects

Graduates progress into a wide range of HR and people-related roles across private, public and third-sector organisations. Typical roles include:

• HR Advisor or HR Officer
• Recruitment or Talent Acquisition Specialist
• Learning and Development Adviser
• Reward Analyst or Compensation and Benefits Specialist
• Employee Relations or Organisational Development Practitioner
• HR Consultant or generalist HR Manager

The programme is structured to support routes to professional membership and recognition in HR bodies, and to equip graduates with the practical skills employers seek, such as data-informed decision making, project management and stakeholder engagement. Oxford Brookes' careers service and employer networks also provide support with placements, internships and interview preparation.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes combines applied, career-focused teaching with access to a broad employer network in Oxford and beyond. The Business School emphasises real-world learning through live projects, guest speakers from industry and opportunities to work on consultancy-style briefs with employer partners.

Students benefit from modern campus facilities, specialist support for postgraduate students and dedicated careers and enterprise teams. The university's location provides strong links to a diverse local economy, while the programme’s emphasis on practical skills and professional standards helps graduates make a rapid transition into HR roles.