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Human Resource Management - BA (Hons)

Currently viewing course to start in 2025/26 Entry.

Our Human Resource Management (HRM) degree equips you with the tools you need to develop the high-performing workforce and innovative teams demanded by business. This course teaches you about the importance of motivating and managing people within a business, showing you the link between successful performance and the people you employ....

  • Level Undergraduate
  • Study mode Full Time/Part Time

This course is:

Available with Professional Placement year

Open to International Students

Overview

Our Human Resource Management (HRM) degree equips you with the tools you need to develop the high-performing workforce and innovative teams demanded by business.

This course teaches you about the importance of motivating and managing people within a business, showing you the link between successful performance and the people you employ.

Drawing upon all aspects of people management enables you not only to gain the building blocks of knowledge and understanding, but also a high degree of professional competence in the field of people management and development.

Reflecting on the current evolution of the HR profession and looking ahead into the near future, you will be provided with progressive opportunities to experience the use of digital technology and advanced technologies in some of the main functions of HRM: immersive realities for Recruiting and Selection, Training and Development, On boarding, Performance Management to name a few.

The course is accredited by the relevant professional body, the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), demonstrating the high quality provision of our course. It has been designed to meet the core knowledge and core behaviours of the CIPD Profession Map and incorporates the core curriculum requirements of that organisation such that when you successfully graduate from the course will have full exemption from the academic component of associate membership of the CIPD.

You will keep up-to-date with the latest issues and innovations in human resources, supported by your lecturers who have experience of working with some of the biggest names in business, in manufacturing, retail, services, hospitality or management consultancy. Guest speakers, from industry and academia, will be invited to provide expert input at both module and course level.

This course is open to International students.

What's covered in this course?

You will gain good understanding of how organisations work and how they change, what the strategic position of Human Resource Management is in organisations and become confident in managing functions of Human Resource Management like Recruitment and Selection, Training & Development, Employment Law and Employee Relations, Performance and Reward Management among others.

You will develop your skills through involvement in real projects, field trips, contemporary methods of teaching and interactive workshops. This work-integrated approach to learning means that graduates of this course leave with real, practical experience, working for companies such as CapGemini UK, VirginMedia, CrossCountry Trains and the NHS.

This course draws upon all aspects of people management, enabling you to build knowledge and understanding, as well as develop the right professional behaviours which are required in the field of human resource management.

You will have the option to undertake a work placement to gain practical work experience within a company, ensuring you are prepared for a successful career from the moment you graduate.

Also, you will be given the opportunity to work on and research real business life problems and present your solutions to the companies who would share their issues with you. We will develop your attributes, so (as long as you join the CIPD as a student member) you will graduate with CIPD Associate professional membership and the right to use the designatory letters “Assoc CIPD”.

The international focus of the course is derived through a variety of means including the student body, the teaching team and the use of international teaching materials. Moreover, you can choose to spend a year or a full semester studying your modules overseas at a partner institution.

Professional Placement Year

This course offers an optional professional placement year. This allows you to spend a whole year with an employer, following successful completion of your second year, and is a great way to find out more about your chosen career. Some students even return to the same employers after completing their studies.

If you choose to pursue a placement year, you will need to find a suitable placement to complement your chosen area of study. You will be able to draw on the University’s extensive network of local, regional, and national employers, and the support of our Careers teams. If you are able to secure a placement, you can request to be transferred to the placement version of the course.

Please note that fees are payable during your placement year, equivalent to 20% of the total full-time course fee for that year.

Accredited By

This course is accredited by:

  • Chartered Institute of Personnel Development CIPD

Why Choose Us?

  • We have a strong focus on employability and through placement opportunities and our links with local businesses, we aim to ensure you graduate not only with your degree but also with the skills and knowledge needed to embark on your chosen career. Most sessions incorporate weekly practical workshops, under the guidance of experienced tutors, where theory is applied to business scenarios and you get a practical understanding of what you will need to do in your future roles as HR professional.
  • The STEAMhouse offers amazing opportunities for entrepreneurial students to kick start and build a business under the support of consultants and university specialists. Services available include the Incubator which helps focus and solidify business ideas and the Hatchery which offers financial, consulting and mentoring support in getting your business off the ground.
  • We pride ourselves on being the University for Birmingham and supporting and giving something back to the local business community. We have strong links with local businesses in the city across several industries. These links help us enhance students’ experiences by giving them access to industry experts for guest lectures, exciting placement opportunities and other chances to engage with the business community as a whole.
  • We aim to infuse learning with exposure to real-world experiences. We give students the chance to work on real-life projects using industry-standard software and with real-world clients where possible, offering a unique opportunity for students to gain this invaluable experience while they study.
  • This course is accredited and meets the high standards of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), ensuring that the course is always up-to-date.
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Open Days

Join us for an on-campus Open Day where you'll be able to learn about this course in detail, chat to students, explore our campus and tour accommodation.

Next Open Day: 24 November 2024

Book your place

Entry Requirements

These entry requirements apply for entry in 2025/26.

All required qualifications/grades must have been achieved and evidenced at the earliest opportunity after accepting an offer to help confirm admission and allow for on-time enrolment. This can also include other requirements, like a fee status form and relevant documents. Applicants can track their application and outstanding information requests through their BCU mySRS account.

Essential requirements

If you have a qualification that is not listed, please contact us.

Fees & How to Apply

Please select your student status to view fees and apply
  • UK Student
  • International Student

UK students

Annual and modular tuition fees shown are applicable to the first year of study. The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation (capped at 5%) or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament. View fees for continuing students.

Award: BA (Hons)

Starting: Sep 2025

  • Mode
  • Duration
  • Fees
  • £1542 per 20 credits
  • Year 1 - 80 credits
  • Year 2 - 80 credits
  • Year 3 - 80 credits
  • Year 4 - 80 credits
  • Year 5 - 40 credits

Fees for Part-time students

This course can be studied on a Part-time study basis. The cost per year of study is based on credit requirements for that year.

International students

Annual and modular tuition fees shown are applicable to the first year of study. The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation (capped at 5%) or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament. View fees for continuing students.

Award: BA (Hons)

Starting: Sep 2025

  • Mode
  • Duration
  • Fees
  • Full Time
  • 3 Years
  • £17,690 in 2025/26

Access to computer equipment 

You will require use of a laptop, and most students do prefer to have their own. However, you can borrow a laptop from the university or use one of our shared computer rooms. 

Printing 

You will receive £5 print credit in each year of your course, available after enrolment. 

Field trips 

All essential field trips and associated travel costs will be included in your course fees. 

Access to Microsoft Office 365 

Every student at the University can download a free copy of Microsoft Office 365 to use whilst at university and for 18 months after graduation. 

Key software 

You will be able to download SPSS and Nvivo to your home computer to support with your studies and research. 

Key subscriptions 

Subscriptions to key journals and websites are available through our library. 

Excess printing (optional) 

Once you have spent your £5 credit, additional printing on campus costs from 5p per sheet. 

Personal stationery and study materials (optional) 

Based on the past experience of our students, you might find it helpful to set aside about £30 for each year of your studies for your personal stationery and study materials. 

Placement expenses (optional) 

If you choose to undertake a placement, you'll need to budget for accommodation and any travel costs you may incur whilst living or working away from home. 

Field trips (optional) 

This course includes the option of additional trips that may enhance your experience. Whilst the University aims to cover the cost of tickets and accommodation, students are expected to pay for food, entertainment and spending money etc.

Memberships (optional) 

You may wish to join a union or professional body related to this course, such as CIPD.

Accommodation and living costs (optional)

The cost of accommodation and other living costs are not included within your course fees. More information on the cost of accommodation can be found in our accommodation pages.

Guidance for UK students

UK students applying for most undergraduate degree courses in the UK will need to apply through UCAS.

The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) is a UK organisation responsible for managing applications to university and college.

Applying through UCAS

  1. Register with UCAS
  2. Login to UCAS and complete your details
  3. Select your course and write a personal statement
  4. Get a reference
  5. Pay your application fee and submit your application

Guidance for International students

There are three ways to apply:

1) Direct to the University

You will need to complete our International Application Form and Equal Opportunities Form, and submit them together with scan copies of your original academic transcripts and certificates.

2) Through a country representative

Our in-country representatives can help you make your application and apply for a visa. They can also offer advice on travel, living in the UK and studying abroad.

3) Through UCAS

If you are applying for an undergraduate degree or a Higher National Diploma (HND), you can apply through the UK’s Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).

You can request a printed form from your school or nearest British Council office. You will be charged for applying through UCAS. Birmingham City University’s UCAS code is B25 BCITY.

Personal statement

UK / EU students are required to submit a personal statement as part of their application for this course.*

The personal statement gives you a crucial opportunity to say why you’re applying and why the institution should accept you.

Here are the key areas you’ll need to address:

  • Course choice - Why does this course appeal? What areas are of particular interest?
  • Career plans - If you have a specific career in mind, say how your chosen course will help you pursue this goal.
  • Work experience - Mention any work that is relevant to your subject, highlighting the skills and experience gained.
  • School or college experience - Highlight skills gained at school/college, eg summer schools or mentoring activities.
  • Non-accredited skills or achievement - eg Duke of Edinburgh Award, Young Enterprise scheme.

You should also mention your future plans – if you’re planning to take a year out, don't forget to give your reasons. Talk about any subjects you’re studying that don’t have a formal assessment and any sponsorships or placements you’ve applied for. And don't be scared to add in details about your social, sports or leisure interests.

Worried about Personal Statements?

If you've got no idea where to start or just want to check you're on the right track, we’ve got expert advice and real examples from our students to help you nail your personal statement. You can even download our ultimate personal statement guide for free.

Get personal statement advice

*Non-EU students are not required to submit a personal statement when applying for this course.

Course in Depth

First Year

In order to complete this course you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits).

Second Year

In order to complete this course you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 100 credits).

In order to complete this course a student must successfully complete at least 20 credits from the following list of OPTIONAL modules.

Professional Placement (Optional)

In order to qualify for the award of BA (Hons) Human Resource Management with Professional Placement Year you must successfully complete the following module.

Final Year

In order to complete this course a student must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits).

Download course specification

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This course is accredited by:

Chartered Institute of Personnel Development CIPD
Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development

Approved by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development.  This allows successful students to upgrade their Student Membership to that of Associate Membership of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (Assoc CIPD).

Employability

Enhancing employability skills

Graduates will have the courage, confidence and enterprising spirit to make a valued contribution within their workplace in people and organisation management.

They are encouraged to take part in the University’s comprehensive Graduate + programme, engage with the regular guest lectures by leading industry figures and attend local and national CIPD events.

Graduates from this course have found roles as:

  • Recruitment & Selection specialists.
  • Employee Experience/ Engagement partners;
  • Learning & Development partners;
  • Talent Acquisition Leads;
  • People & Culture Leads;
  • People Management Partners;
  • HR Generalists; Regional HR Advisors; HR Assistants.

Graduates have gone on to work for organisations including but not limited to, HS2, JLR, Adobe, the NHS, Randstad, Manpower, and Stanton Chase.

Placements

You will have access to placement opportunities through the Placement Office. In previous years, students have undertaken placements in HR departments of established companies such as Virgin, Ericsson, Bosch, Airbus, Goodyear, FedEx, the NHS, Assa Abloy, Coventry Building Society, and many others.

More about our placement opportunities

International

Welcome to Birmingham City University, home to students from over 70 countries all around the world!

Our Business programmes are practice based and many have an international focus, which means your course will be entirely relevant to today’s business world. Almost all of our courses, both at undergraduate and postgraduate level, are open to international students.

We also have links with universities across the world, including Europe, the USA, China, India and Malaysia.

International Services

Our international pages contain a wealth of information for international students who are considering applying to study here, including:

The University is conveniently placed, with Birmingham International Airport nearby and first-rate transport connections to London and the rest of the UK.

Facilities & Staff

Curzon facilities eatery
Curzon facilities staircase
Curzon facilities student hub

Our Facilities

We are constantly investing in our estate and have spent £400 million on new learning facilities.

The Curzon Building

This course is based at our City Centre Campus – and specifically The Curzon Building, alongside other Social Sciences, Law and Business students.

The £63m building offers students a unique social learning space, including a dedicated student hub incorporating student support services, in the heart of Birmingham’s Eastside development.

The Business floors house an extensive number of IT facilities, breakout areas, and specialised rooms. The Marketing Link Agency is designed to replicate a modern marketing firm, allowing students to get real-life experience of working in the marketing sector. There is also the City Trading Room, which features state of the art stock market tracking equipment, keeping you up to date with all the financial comings and goings of the London Stock Exchange and Wall Street.

The Curzon building is also conveniently close to Birmingham’s business and financial centre, allowing for strong links between your studies and the real world.

The Curzon Building also features:

  • An impressive library with access to over 65 million full text items and stunning views of Eastside City Park
  • Your Students’ Union which is located in a beautifully restored 19th century pub, The Eagle and Ball
  • A modern 300-seat food court with space to study and socialise
  • Accessible IT facilities with full Office365 for all students for free
  • Shared facilities with the wider campus including the Parkside Building and Millennium Point

Our staff

Michalis Kourtidis

Senior Lecturer in Human Resource Management

Michalis is a passionate Human Resource Management (HRM) and Organisational Behaviour (OB) enthusiast with a dual focus on academia and industry. His Ph.D. research delved into the retention of professional chefs, utilizing the Repertory Grid Technique. His academic journey began with studies in Philosophy, Pedagogy, and Psychology, majoring...

More about Michalis

Dr Andrew Hambler

Associate Professor in Employment Law and Human Resource Management

Dr Andrew Hambler is a former HR Consultant who worked for many years for the financial services firm PricewaterhouseCoopers, progressing to manager. Andrew started working in Higher Education in 2004 and, since June 2018, has been employed as Associate Professor in Employment Law and Human Resources at Birmingham City University. 

More about Andrew

Dr Tracy Hui

Lecturer in Management

Tracy held the position of Programme Director for an HRM undergraduate programme in Hong Kong. With a diverse background encompassing education, counselling, HRM, and business administration, she was frequently invited to deliver a wide range of learning and development programmes for business corporations.

More about Tracy

Anh Phan

Assistant Lecturer

Anh is a Lecturer and PhD researcher in AI and HRM at Birmingham City University. Anh has been following the professional and academic route to become a qualified lecturer and education facilitator. Her research field centres on innovation and advanced technologies in the realm of Human Resource Management and Business Administration. Anh is...

More about Anh

Dr Balakrishnan Muniapan

Senior Teaching Fellow in Human Resource Management

Dr Balakrishnan Muniapan is currently teaching Human Resource Management (HRM) at Birmingham City University in the UK. He was twice awarded the Best Professor in HRM in Singapore and in Mumbai. He has also been a Visiting Professor in HRM and external examiner for doctoral theses for universities within Asia, Australia, Africa, USA and Europe. Dr...

More about Balakrishnan

Farzana Choudhury

Teaching Fellow

Farzana Choudhury serves as a teaching fellow in the College of Business, Digital Transformation and Entrepreneurship.

More about Farzana