Mercy College

What you'll study

This master's covers the full spectrum of contemporary human resource management, balancing theory and applied practice. Teaching typically includes core modules on strategic HRM, organisational behaviour, employment relations and employment law, performance and reward systems, talent acquisition and selection, and learning, development and coaching.

Students also study research methods and HR analytics to develop evidence-based decision-making skills, and choose elective topics such as diversity and inclusion, change management, international HRM, or compensation and benefits. The programme normally culminates in a capstone project, consultancy assignment or dissertation that applies HR knowledge to a real organisational issue.

• Strategic Human Resource Management
• Organisational Behaviour and Leadership
• Employment Law and Industrial Relations
• Talent Acquisition and Selection
• Learning, Development and Performance Management
• Compensation, Benefits and Reward Strategy
• HR Analytics and Research Methods
• Capstone Project / Dissertation or Industry Placement

Teaching and assessment

Delivery mixes lectures, seminars, case studies and skills workshops; many modules include group projects and simulated HR activities such as job design, interview assessments and policy drafting. Assessment methods commonly include coursework, practical HR portfolios, presentations, exams and the final project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good honours degree (or recognised equivalent) in any subject. Applicants with substantial professional experience in HR, business or a related field may be considered where academic qualifications are not directly aligned.

All applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency in English through an approved test or equivalent evidence of prior study in English. Admissions may also require a personal statement and references; some applicants will be invited to an interview.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of HR and people-related roles, including HR officer, HR business partner, recruitment and talent acquisition specialist, learning and development coordinator, compensation and benefits analyst, and organisational development advisor. The programme is also suitable for those seeking to progress into HR management and leadership roles or to work as HR consultants.

Skills gained — such as workforce planning, people analytics, employment law awareness and practical HR interventions — are relevant across sectors including private companies, public services, non-profit organisations and consultancy firms. Many graduates also use the master’s as a stepping stone to professional HR qualifications and senior-level appointments.

Why study at Mercy College

Mercy College offers a human-centred learning environment with small class sizes and practical, career-oriented teaching. The course is delivered by staff with professional HR experience and applied research interests, and benefits from connections with local employers and placement opportunities to build workplace-relevant skills.

Students receive individual academic support and access to career services, employability workshops and networking events that help translate classroom learning into job-ready capabilities. The programme’s emphasis on applied projects and analytics equips graduates to respond to contemporary people-management challenges in a range of organisations.