Management with Human Resources | MSc

Dr Alex Alterskye and Dr Kudrat Khuda - Programme Leaders

Dr Alex Alterskye is programme leader and lecturer on the Chartered Management Degree Apprenticeship at the Unversity. He achieved his PhD in 2020 at Lincoln, entitled: ‘Examining the fields of entrepreneurship in Hull and Liverpool: an investigation into the context of entrepreneurship using the field construct, utilising a Bourdieusian theoretical lens and the institutional logics perspective’. Dr Kudrat Khuda is programme leader and lecturer in Management at Lincoln International Business School. He also sits on the editorial board of the International Journal of Public Sociology and Sociotherapy. Dr Khuda has published research articles in international journals and is particularly interested in the contextual differences that can potentially explain the variant nature of contemporary employee relations.

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Welcome to MSc Management with Human Resources

MSc Management with Human Resources aims to provide students with the opportunity to develop their understanding of human resource management and to locate that new understanding in the dual contexts of both the wider business implications and an international perspective. In addition, students can develop the knowledge and practical skills necessary to deal with people within the particular context of the employment relationship. The programme provides an opportunity for both aspiring and practising HR specialists to study their subject at Masters level and to prepare them to carry out management and leadership roles successfully. Students are able develop a critical understanding of the issues relating to business, management, and HRM which can enhance their ability to maximise individual potential.

The programme introduces students to the field of leadership with the domain of human resources, and management of change, which can help them to become effective managers/HR Professionals in managing others fairly and effectively, ultimately increasing levels of engagement, motivation, commitment, and performance across the organisational workforce.

The MSc Management with Human Resources is open to applicants from all educational backgrounds. No previous experience of management studies or HR is required. For those who have already studied a related discipline, this course offers the opportunity to progress their knowledge to an advanced level. The programme is also suitable for those who have proven managerial experience which they wish to consolidate with academic qualifications.

This programme can be studied full-time or part-time to meet the needs of students who are seeking to develop their career by combining academic study with their existing employment. Part-time students would usually be expected to complete the programme within two years. The programme is available for either a September or February start.

The course is offered with two separate pathways. Students can either complete one year of study or undertake a two-year course where one year is spent in Professional Practice to gain hands-on experience through a paid placement. Students will be responsible for sourcing their own paid placements but will be supported by dedicated employability specialists. Please note: students need to choose the Professional Practice pathway from the outset when applying for the course, and it is only available for a September start.

The programme aims to provide students with a solid understanding of the fundamental subjects needed to manage a business within a complex changing environment. Modules in organisational strategy and project management can equip students with the tools, techniques, and knowledge to be able to work effectively in different contexts. Students will have the opportunity to develop their knowledge and skills in key areas such as leadership, marketing, finance and accounting, and people management. Specialist HR modules focus on the role of HR in a global context, employment relations, and organisational design and development.

How You Study

The MSc Management with Human Resources brings together relevant contemporary academic theories and research with practical understanding of HRM policies and practices within organisations. Teaching is informed by real-world examples and students will be expected to participate in lectures, seminars, and workshops to share knowledge, relate this to theories developed from relevant research, and learn through practical application. Through the development of an integrated and critically aware understanding of management and HR in the context of contemporary business issues, the programme involves students in a demanding process of personal and professional development.

Our focus on the international dimensions of business and management and HRM reflects the global environment in which organisations increasingly function. This global mindset is realised in our international faculty and student community. Our academics and students are drawn from all over the world, and bring with them unique experiences and perspectives which can enrich students' learning.

All students will study the following taught modules:

Organisational Psychology
Leadership Development
International Marketing Planning
Financial Analysis, Appraisal and Decision-Making
Project Planning and Management
Strategy in Context
Human Resources in a Global Context
Employment Relations
Organisational Design and Development

Students can then progress to complete the compulsory final project. It may take a variety of potential formats, including an independent research project, design of a new enterprise, a work-based project, or a consultancy project.

Contact Hours and Independent Study

Each module typically consists of three weekly teaching hours over a teaching term. Students will normally study four modules per term and therefore 12 hours per week. Please note, irrespective of whether students are full-time or part-time, their hours of study may vary from term to term and can be spread throughout the week.

Students planning to study the degree on a part-time basis, will be studying two modules per term with six hours of contact time on a weekly basis.

Postgraduate level study involves a significant proportion of independent study, exploring the material covered in lectures and seminars. As a general guide, for every hour in class, students are expected to spend at least three to four hours in independent study.

Although a proportion of the contact time will be spent in teaching, emphasis will also be placed upon the use of the student group as a resource for learning. The style of teaching will vary to reflect individual module objectives. The modules utilise methods of teaching and learning which are appropriate to postgraduate level study and effective collaborative learning such as debates, presentations, and report writing. There will also be group discussions of practical situations and problems, making an extensive use of case studies in national and international contexts, simulation materials and, where relevant, students' own experiences.

For more detailed information please contact the Programme Leader.

An Introduction to Your Modules

† Some courses may offer optional modules. The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year and will be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed. Optional module selection may also be affected by staff availability.

Employment Relations 2023-24HRM9047MLevel 72023-24The cornerstone of all human resource management (HRM) activity is the employment relationship as a legal, social, economic and psychological exchange. This module is designed to provide students with the chance to develop a comprehensive understanding of employment relations perspectives and debates, both national and international, from a theoretical and behavioural competency perspective. This module can help students to understand, analyse, and evaluate competing theories and perspectives associated with managing employment relations strategies and their outcomes on organisational climate, employees and management. By utilising descriptive, predictive and prescriptive data analytics, the employment relationship can be optimised, reducing areas such as staff turnover and sickness absence through data-driven performance improvement initiatives. The module provides opportunities to critically apply the activities, knowledge and behavioural competencies required for managing employment relations practices in union and non-union, small and large, private, public and indigenous and multinational organisations. It aims to enable students to review and critically evaluate the roles and functions of different stakeholders in employment relations and the structures and processes required to manage the employment relationship effectively.CoreFinancial Analysis, Appraisal and Decision Making 2023-24ACC9703MLevel 72023-24The module aims to develop the student's ability to critically analyse the financial statements for single and group companies, understanding how the financial statements are prepared, considering compliance with legal and regulatory requirements and the relevant International Accounting Standards. Students taking the module will examine both financial and non-financial matters that affect a business on a day to day basis and develop proactive ideas to solve these issues. The module will help to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand corporate financial performance and the relevance of accounting information, including the implications for the organisation, stakeholders, and for effective corporate governance.CoreHuman Resources in a Global Context 2023-24 HRM9704MLevel 72023-24Human resource (HR) professionals and managers operate within an increasingly complex and changing organisational context, whether in the market, public or third sectors. Whatever the size of their organisations or the types of goods or services these enterprises produce for their customers or clients. This module aims to provide learners, first, with an understanding of the principal internal and external environmental contexts of contemporary organisations, including the managerial and business context, within which managers, HR professionals and workers interact in conditions of environmental turbulence, change and uncertainty. Secondly, the module examines how those leading organisations respond to these dynamic environmental contexts. The module also indicates how leaders in organisations, those in the HR function, and line managers with HR responsibilities need to recognise and acknowledge that corporate decisions and HR choices are not always shaped by managers alone. They are also shaped by internal and external forces beyond their immediate control. By having a data-driven approach to people problems through the use of sound HR analytics, the decision-making process becomes evidence-based and predictions are less of a risk in terms of strategy. Having studied this module, learners can become more aware that managers and HR professionals in different types of organisation (small, large, national, global), in responding to their internal, business and external environmental contexts, not only have opportunities and choices when taking organisational and HR decisions but also face constraints on their autonomy in determining their futures. This module explores the implications for professional practice and provides opportunities for applied learning and continuous professional development.CoreInternational Marketing Planning 2023-24MKT9705MLevel 72023-24The business world never stands still; technologies and the move towards a more global economy are creating opportunities that organisations must embrace to maintain their competitive edge. Never before have global events and innovations had greater impact on local markets. Businesses now compete on a global stage where marketers can do so much more with small budgets, ultimately shrinking the historic chasm between SMEs and large enterprises. Creative marketing that grabs the attention of the ever demanding changing needs of the consumer takes careful planning. This module can provide students with the fundamental building blocks to manage an organisations marketing function. By establishing an organisations current market position, unpacking their value offering to consumers, and formulating a plan to meet strategic marketing objectives, the marketing planning process provides a creative framework to drive organisational success.CoreLeadership Development 2023-24MGT9707MLevel 72023-24This module is designed to provide students with a conceptual and theoretical background in leadership, and an opportunity to develop leadership competencies in themselves and others. It covers topics such as leadership style, followership, ethical and responsible leadership, gender and leadership, and cross-cultural leadership. Over the course of this module, students will gain an understanding and appreciation of the impact interpersonal skills have on leadership effectiveness. This module has an applied focus and requires students to reflect on and apply theories and techniques to their personal real-world context in order to enhance their leadership practice.CoreOrganisational Design and Development 2023-24HRM9705MLevel 72023-24This module covers organisation design and development and will enable students to develop a critical understanding of the theory and conceptual framework of organisation design and of the principles and practices of organisation development. Both are critical to our understanding of organisations and how they function and both reside within a framework of organisational theory. The module focuses on decisions that have to be made on the most appropriate organisational structure(s) to ensure delivery of organisational activity. Organisation design is about shaping an organisation to maximise its effectiveness, aiming for flexibility in delivery of its services. Through breaking down departmental barriers, seeking improved supply efficiencies, teamwork and collaboration and working towards better customer management and retention, organisations can enhance their performance and ensure that organisational goals and targets are achieved. Organisation design activities therefore focus on finding the most appropriate structures, relationships between departments and sections, and allocation of work activities, including definition of duties and role responsibilities. By utilising HR Data Analytics, organisations can determine the effectiveness and efficiency of HR day-to-day procedures, job and organisational design. Such a data-driven approach to managing people and the workplace has a clear link to performance management in that effective delivery of work and output will be measured and managed. The module also focuses on how an organisations culture, values and environment support and enhance organisational performance and adaptability. Organisation development is defined by CIPD (2018) as a planned and systematic approach to enabling sustained organisation performance through the involvement of its people. This might include how organisational members acquire new skills, knowledge and behaviours, and do things differently, often as part of the application of continuous improvement strategies. The concept of the learning organisation as one of a number of organisation development strategies that might be adopted as part organisational change activities is also explored. The importance of cultural awareness in managing outcomes of design and development strategies, the practical applications of organisation design and organisation development concepts and the implications for the effective management of organisations and professional practice are considered. The module requires critical reflection on theory and practice from an ethical and professional standpoint and provides opportunities for applied learning and continuous professional development.CoreOrganisational Psychology 2023-24MGT9639MLevel 72023-24The purpose of this module is to help develop students understanding and management of people at work. This can be achieved by introducing students to key concepts and theories in the field of organisational psychology and their application to different organisational settings. A wide range of topics relevant to effective people management are covered including personality, selection and assessment, work motivation and job design, team dynamics, decision-making, and organisational change and culture. The module will also provide the opportunity for students to reflect on their own experiences and competencies as managers.CoreProfessional Inquiry Project 2023-24BUS9711MLevel 72023-24The Professional Inquiry Project allows students to demonstrate their mastery of management within the field of their degree. It is an individual and independent project in which students can bring together and apply their learning from the programme to help to solve a chosen business problem or challenge, a real-world issue or a research topic. Although the foci and form of the final project are to be negotiated, the following are indicative of the potential formats students may choose: work-based project, client-based project; or other negotiated project such as the design of a new enterprise. Completing the Professional Inquiry Project gives students a unique opportunity to undertake an extended piece of personal research on a topic of their own choosing. By undertaking the project students will be demonstrating their ability to research and critically analyse and integrate complex information necessary in the world of contemporary management.CoreProject Planning and Management 2023-24BUS9041MLevel 72023-24With the rapidly changing context of modern business, the process of introducing novel technologies, products, infrastructures, or systems has become vital yet more challenging due to often conflicting stakeholder requirements, irreversible investments, operating constraints, and associated risks. Therefore, any business change has to be project-managed as the current emphasis in business is on flexible, rapid response to customer demands. Managers increasingly require a project competence with a systems-oriented management style that cuts across traditional functional roles throughout the project life-cycle. Project management is thus considered a crucial management philosophy of how organisations manage fluctuating business environments and bring to life something innovative or simply never accomplished before. This module provides students with the opportunity to develop an essential understanding of the fundamentals of project management. It covers a variety of concepts and their practical application including project scope, time, cost, quality, stakeholders, and communication.CoreStrategy in Context 2023-24MGT9706MLevel 72023-24In our current globalised world, individuals in leadership and management positions within organisations across sectors are often confronted with a myriad of wicked problems which demand for a comprehensive and cohesive strategy. To succeed, individuals in position of responsibility must develop a range of capabilities needed to gain competitive advantage in markets and in the globe. This module seeks to equip students with crucial knowledge and strategy making skills to perform as a strategist and contribute to responsible business strategies to give their organisation a competitive advantage. Students who fully engage with the module will develop the knowledge and professional expertise needed for the formation, implementation and analysis of responsible business strategies; to make appropriate choices between strategic options; and then to follow a strategic route that will deliver results that are robust, ethically sound and socially responsible.CoreProfessional Practice 2023-24TOU9167MLevel 72023-24This course is also available with a Professional Practice pathway. This two-year version of the degree provides the opportunity to undertake a period of professional practice at the end of first year to gain hands-on experience through a paid work placement. Students will be responsible for sourcing their own paid placements but will be supported by academic staff. Students will be interviewed before being accepted onto the Professional Practice programme to assess their understanding of the work involved and commitment to finding a Professional Practice placement. The professional practice (PP) period is not credit bearing and will not count towards the overall degree; however, to have the PP element attached to the degree, students are required to present a placement project linked to their experience while being in industry (e.g. learning outcomes, key skills developed, nature of the work and responsibilities). The presentation can be delivered face-to-face while the academic placement supervisor is visiting the student/organisation or via Skype if there are limitations (e.g. location). Throughout the PP period, students will be in touch with the University by having regular contact with their allocated supervisor. Students will be expected to complete a negotiated work based project as their dissertation.Optional

How you are assessed

A variety of assessment methods are utilised during this course, including essays, examinations, oral presentations, and simulation games. These assessments are designed to develop skills that will be useful for your career.

Essays involve written assignments where you will be expected to structure and develop arguments based on research and critical analysis of alternative perspectives and courses of action.

Examinations aim to test and develop your ability to think on your feet and provide logical and well-formed arguments under time pressure.

Oral presentations provide you with the opportunity to demonstrate and develop communication and influencing skills that are highly valued in business and management roles.

Finally, simulation games can provide you with the chance to see the results of decisions you make about allocating financial, human, and other resources.

The University of Lincoln's policy on assessment feedback aims to ensure that academics will return in-course assessments to you promptly - usually within 15 working days after the submission date.

Fees and Funding

For eligible students, there are more ways than ever before to fund your postgraduate study, whether you want to do a taught or research course. For those wishing to undertake a Master's course, UK students can apply for a loan as a contribution towards the course and living costs. Loans are also available to those who wish to undertake doctoral study. The University offers a number of scholarships and funded studentships for those interested in postgraduate study. Learn how Master's and PhD loans, scholarships, and studentships can help you fund your studies on our Postgraduate Fees and Funding pages.

Programme Fees

Programme-Specific Additional Costs

With regards to text books, the University provides students who enrol with a comprehensive reading list and you will find that our extensive library holds either material or virtual versions of the core texts that you are required to read. However, you may prefer to purchase some of these for yourself and you will be responsible for this cost.

International Applications

Please note that this programme is now closed for international applications for September 2023 entry.

Entry Requirements 2023-24

Honours degree or equivalent.

If you have studied outside of the UK, and are unsure whether your qualification meets the above requirements, please visit our country pages https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/home/studywithus/internationalstudents/entryrequirementsandyourcountry/ for information on equivalent qualifications.

Overseas students will be required to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0 overall, with a minimum of 5.5 in each element. For information regarding other English language qualifications we accept, please visit the English Requirements page https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/home/studywithus/internationalstudents/englishlanguagerequirementsandsupport/englishlanguagerequirements/.

If you do not meet the above IELTS requirements, you may be able to take part in one of our Pre-session English and Academic Study Skills courses. https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/home/studywithus/internationalstudents/englishlanguagerequirementsandsupport/pre-sessionalenglishandacademicstudyskills/ . These specialist courses are designed to help students meet the English language requirements for their intended programme of study.

Professional Practice

In order to further enhance their employability skills, students also have the option to complete a Professional Practice Year as part of their course. Students will be responsible for sourcing their own paid placements but will be supported by dedicated employability specialists. The placement will start after the student has completed the taught segment of the course and, at the end of the placement, the student will return to the University to complete their final project. Please note: students need to choose the Professional Practice pathway from the outset when applying for the course, and it is only available for an October start.

Students who are accepted onto the Professional Practice programme will attend a consultation with a Programme Leader and Placement Coordinator early in their first term to discuss timelines, processes, and requirements.

The Professional Practice year is not assessed. However, students will be required to present a placement project linked to their experience. Students who successfully complete their degree with a year in Professional Practice will receive the award title MSc Management with Human Resources (Professional Practice). Those who do not will receive the MSc Management award, or equivalent exit award.

There are no tuition fees for the Professional Practice year but students will need to cover their own travel, accommodation, and general living costs.

Students must enrol for one of these options:
- the one-year option without placement, or
- the two-year option which includes a placement.

Students will not be able to change from the one-year option to the two-year option after enrolment. For the two-year option, students must choose the course title that states 'With Professional Practice' when they enrol.

Industry Expertise

Lincoln International Business School has an experienced team of staff, which is made up of academically and professionally qualified lecturers with relevant industrial experience and experts with wide research interests.

The School hosts a series of visiting speakers each year, enabling students to hear and learn from industry experts. Previous speakers have included representatives from organisations such as Deloitte, Santander, HSBC, Innocent, Siemens, Lincoln City Council, and Sir David Tweedie (ex-Chairman of the IASB).

Students will also have the chance to build their skills and knowledge further with extra-curricular activities such as joining a society, volunteering, or becoming a Student Ambassador.

Features

The programme provides a diverse range of learning and assessment situations that can develop appropriate knowledge, intellectual, and practical skills, and promote opportunities for students to acquire and demonstrate transferable, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills within the broad context of management and in a multi-cultural setting.

A highlight of the programme is an activity-based team challenge event as part of the module Leadership Development, which will allow students to practice and receive feedback on their leadership skills. Please note: our ability to undertake the team challenge event is dependent on government guidance at the time with regard to travel and social-distancing. An appropriate alternative experience will be provided in the event that the team challenge cannot take place.

Broaden Your Horizons

Lincoln International Business School students can expand their horizons, visit our partner universities, and see international business in action by joining funded international trips to exciting overseas destinations. Places are awarded competitively to eligible students each academic year.

Find out more about our funded field trip places for students.

Career and Personal Development

The University Careers and Employability Team offer qualified advisors who can work with you to provide tailored, individual support and careers advice during your time at the University. As a member of our alumni we also offer one-to-one support in the first year after completing your course, including access to events, vacancy information and website resources; with access to online vacancies and virtual and website resources for the following two years.

This service can include one-to-one coaching, CV advice and interview preparation to help you maximise your future opportunities. The service works closely with local, national and international employers, acting as a gateway to the business world.

Working in Partnership

Lincoln International Business School works with students and organisations to enhance the contribution of business to society. For students, that means developing their business skills and knowledge to improve their career readiness.

The University of Lincoln is a member of AACSB, a global nonprofit association connecting educators, students, and businesses to achieve a common goal: to create the next generation of great leaders. Find out more.

Postgraduate Events

Find out more about how postgraduate study can help further your career, develop your knowledge, or even prepare you to start your own business at one of our postgraduate events.

Find out More

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Key Information

MSc Management with Human Resources