Bournemouth University

What you'll study

This programme combines core management theory with applied human resources practice. You will study organisational behaviour and leadership, strategic human resource management, employment relations and employment law, resourcing and talent management, learning and development, performance and reward, and change and organisational development. Modules typically cover both the conceptual foundations and the practical tools used in HR, such as job analysis, interviewing and selection techniques, performance appraisal design, training needs analysis, and basic HR analytics.

The course is usually delivered through a mix of lectures, seminars, case studies, group work and workshops with an emphasis on real-world application. You will complete a research methods module to prepare for a substantial piece of independent work — normally a dissertation or a consultancy-style project that addresses a live organisational issue. Short applied projects, presentations and industry-informed assessments are common, and you will be encouraged to reflect on contemporary HR challenges such as diversity and inclusion, digital HR systems and ethical people management.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good undergraduate degree (second class honours or equivalent) in any discipline. Candidates with significant relevant work experience in HR, management or another professional context may be considered on a non-standard basis. You should be able to demonstrate motivation for postgraduate study and an understanding of HR and management topics through your personal statement and references.

As the programme is taught in English, applicants whose first language is not English will need to show an appropriate English language qualification. The university publishes the detailed language requirements and accepted qualifications; equivalent internationally recognised tests and scores are also considered.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of people-focused and management roles. Typical career destinations include HR adviser/assistant, HR business partner, talent acquisition specialist, learning and development consultant, organisational development practitioner, reward and performance analyst, and HR consultant. The combination of management and HR skills also positions graduates for broader management roles and for careers in consultancy, people analytics and change management.

The course helps prepare you for professional routes within HR practice and for continuing professional development. Many students progress to senior HR roles within employers across sectors, while others combine the degree with professional HR qualifications or pursue further research.

Why study at Bournemouth University

Bournemouth University emphasises applied learning and industry relevance. The MSc Management (Human Resources) is taught by staff with a mix of academic and practitioner experience and draws on the university’s links with local and national employers to bring contemporary practice into the classroom. Teaching typically uses real organisational cases and encourages collaborative, project-based learning to build practical skills employers value.

Students benefit from dedicated careers support, guest lectures from HR professionals and opportunities to work on live consultancy-style projects. The university’s facilities and smaller-group teaching enable interactive seminars and skills workshops in recruitment, coaching and HR data interpretation. Overall, the programme is suited to those who want a career-focused master’s that develops both specialist HR capability and broader management judgment.