BA (Hons) Human Resource Management

Due to the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic, examinations may be replaced by an alternative form of assessment during the academic year 2020/2021. Please refer to the Programme Specification on these pages for further details.

You’ll be supported in your studies and preparing for your future

Eligible to apply for associate membership of CIPD on graduation

Be taught by HRM practitioners and research active academics

This course includes the sandwich year options of:

Work Placement*

Study abroad*

*No fees are charged for this year


UCAS code	N600, N6R9, N6T9
Institution code	H36
School of study	Hertfordshire Business School
Course length	Full Time, 3 Years Part Time, 6 Years Sandwich, 4 Years
Location	University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield

Entry requirements

UCAS points A Level BTEC

96 CCC MMM

Additional requirements

GCSE: Grade 4/C in English and Mathematics
All students from non-majority English speaking countries require proof of English language proficiency, equivalent to an overall IELTS score of 6 with a minimum of 5.5 in each band.
If you do not have the required IELTS or equivalent for direct entry on to your degree programme, our Pre-sessional English and International Foundation courses can help you to achieve this level.
For more details on the University of Hertfordshire's entry requirements, please visit our Undergraduate Entry Requirements page.
Find out more about International Entry Requirements.
The University of Hertfordshire is committed to welcoming students with a wide range of qualifications and levels of experience. The entry requirements listed on the course pages provide a guide to the minimum level of qualifications needed to study each course. However, we have a flexible approach to admissions and each application will be considered on an individual basis.
Professional accreditations

Our BA Human Resource Management is accredited by the highly respected Chartered Institute of Personnel Development (CIPD), so you can be confident it’s giving you the high-quality skills today’s employers are looking for. Once you graduate, you can become an associate member of the CIPD, able to access its professional networks and resources.
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UCAS points	A Level	BTEC
96	CCC	MMM

Why choose this course?

Study for your degree at one of the UK’s leading business-facing university.
Become a knowledgeable, highly skilled human resources professional.
Take modules created in consultation with employers, focused on the skills they really need.
Choose to learn a new language, take a year-long work placement or study abroad for a year.
Graduate with associate membership of the Chartered Institute of Personal Development (CIPD).

What's the course about?

Indicative course structure

Human resources (HR) typically focuses on the management of people within an organisation, and this course gives you the skills and knowledge for a successful career in this important area. You’ll study topics that fundamentally underpin HR management, including legal issues, economics, people resourcing, accounting and marketing. You’ll then move on to specialist modules such as organisational psychology, employment relations, individual employment law, ethics, contemporary HRD and performance management. Once you’ve completed the course, you can apply for associate membership of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development.

You can also study a language with this course. You can be awarded the degree ‘with language’ in the title if you choose to study a foreign language in all years of study.

What will I study?

You will be studying four 15 credit modules in each semester (this may vary between double modules) and your contact time varies between modules, but usually you will have two sessions per week for each module, a one-hour lecture following by a one-hour seminar/tutorial. Typically, a new topic or theory will be introduced in each lecture and will be followed up with class discussion and feedback in the subsequent seminar. In addition, as part of your study time, you will be collaborating with your peers on tasks and group assignments. Module leaders also offer weekly drop in and feedback sessions, usually 2 x 1 hours per module as well as revision sessions.

The University’s ‘online learning environment’ means you can access all your course resources, literature and timetables from anywhere in the world.

Usually, assessment is split between coursework and examinations. The style of coursework can vary from presentations to business reports, essays depending on the taught topics.

Level 4

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Principles of Marketing	15 Credits	Compulsory
This initial marketing module, which assumes no prior knowledge of marketing, aims to introduce students to some of the key ideas of marketing and is suitable for both marketing and non-marketing students. It examines the environment within which organisations operate and the role of marketing within the organisation so that students can understand the context within which marketing personnel work, and the different activities which are carried out under the umbrella term of 'marketing'. Concepts central to an understanding of marketing are considered - segmentation; targeting and positioning; the product life cycle; the 4Ps; buyer behaviour, etc.
Introduction to Human Resource Management	30 Credits	Compulsory
The module provides students with a series of academic skills and study strategies to underpin their subsequent studies. It is composed of several themes including- communication, thinking and methods of enquiry, IT-literacy, numeracy and the nature of knowledge. These will allow students to effectively match problem solving techniques to different scenarios. In doing so, students will be expected to operate in teams, reflect on their practice and recognise aspects for self-development and improvement. The module selects a series of issues that are pertinent to the HRM professional and HRM practice. Topics studied include: The HRM professional and ethical frameworks of HRM at individual, organisational, and national level; organisational strategies for HRM; the theory of HRM; human resource and succession planning; recruitment and selection; equality and diversity; the employment relationship and engagement; communication and HRM; performance management and appraisal; pay and reward; training and development strategies, techniques and management.
Work and Organisations	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module provides an introduction to the organising and managing of work in contemporary society. It incorporates a historical review of the emergence of large-scale organisations and of the structure, functioning and management of work organisations including: The nature and purpose of work organisations and the emergence of large-scale organisations, organisation design (structure and culture) and job design; organisation development; implications for the HR function. The management of work organisation: control; concepts and strategies; power, conflict and resistance. The issues of continuity and change at work along with changes in the nature of work and work organisation as a consequence of competitive, technological and social trends. The issues of diversity including race and gender. The key theories of Taylorism and systematic management are discussed. Weber and administrative theories of management, the rise of bureaucratic organisations, human relations approaches, Marx and the labour process.
Economics for Business	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module aims to enable students to understand the economic context of modern business by introducing and developing an appreciation of the utility of economic approaches in studying the business environment. The basic tools and approaches which economists use; demand and supply and industry analysis, among others; will be introduced and applied to help understand the economic issues involved and the public policy which can be derived. Economics, of course, provides one of the key pillars of a solid education in business and this module represents some first steps in this direction as well as highlighting some of the major contemporary issues in our society.
HRM Practice and Society	15 Credits	Compulsory
The emphasis of this module is on social awareness and practicing research skills. The module provides an introduction to the role of Human Resource Management in wider society. Students will learn about employment opportunities, equality and diversity and social inclusion and the role of organisations and especially HR practitioners in these areas. What are some of the barriers different groups face in the labour market? How do employers play a role in creating opportunities for different groups in society? Should they do so? What is the business case for and against? Is there a social justice case? What are some of the challenges and limitations of implementing and managing diversity and equality in the workplace? The module is delivered through a mixture of lectures and workshops in which students are introduced to a range of sources that address these questions.
Introduction to Business Operations	15 Credits	Optional
The module objective is to provide a comprehensive introduction to the key operations of the business. Real world examples will be used to develop the underlying business concepts. By the end of the module, the student should be able to describe and discuss the role of operations within a business across a range of industry sectors.
Information Systems for Business	15 Credits	Optional
The purpose of this module is to enable students to integrate their understanding of business principles with the IT functions and systems which support the business. On completion of the module, they should have a holistic view of the modern business information system, appreciating the intrinsic value of IS/IT in enabling businesses to achieve their goals. This should provide a solid foundation on which to build progressive study of more specialised topic areas relating to business and/or IS/IT.
International Environment of Business 2: Law, Ethics and Culture	15 Credits	Optional
The skills set needed by today’s managers operating in an international context requires them to have a good understanding of the various legal and ethical implications of global trade and to develop sensitivity to issues arising out of cultural difference so that they can operate and communicate effectively in diversity. The module will explore themes of: a) legal framework of international trade such as INCOTERMS and the Vienna Convention; b) business ethical considerations specific to international trade; c) cross-cultural differences and their impact on communication and negotiation styles.
Financial Analysis Techniques	15 Credits	Optional
The module provides an introduction to accounting from the manager's viewpoint. Areas covered include the collection and reporting of accounting information to both internal and external users, as well as the use and interpretation of publicly available accounting information. The role of accounting in supporting the management functions of planning, control and decision-making is also covered. Indicative topics include: - preparation and presentation of a simple income statement and balance sheet, including the need for adjustments such as depreciation, accruals, prepayments and bad debts; - the difference between profit and cash; - interpretation of an income statement and a balance sheet using ratio analysis; - costing: cost behaviour; marginal costing - methods and uses; absorption costing - methods and uses; - budgeting: nature and purpose of budgeting; its contribution to planning, control and motivation in an organisation; preparation of simple budgets.
Mandarin Route A - 4a	15 Credits	Optional
This module will enable students to communicate in Mandarin Chinese at a basic level in a range of everyday social situations. Students will learn to talk about themselves and their daily life, carry out reading and listening tasks and write short texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be delivered via on-line materials, including video clips and Chinese websites.
Mandarin Route A - 4b	15 Credits	Optional
This module will enable students to communicate in Mandarin Chinese at a basic level in a range of everyday social situations. Students will learn to talk about themselves and their daily life, carry out reading (pinyin) and listening tasks and write short texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be delivered via on-line materials including video clips and Chinese websites.
French Route C - 4a	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will be placed on ensuring that students have a grammatically sound command of both the written and the spoken forms of French. A thematic approach to language learning will be used, improving the student’s linguistic ability and knowledge of more complex French. The course will be based on selected, complex carefully graded texts, online and audiovisual materials compiled from a variety of sources made available to students through StudyNet. Typical themes of study will focus on social, economic and cultural issues. Student will be expected to take part in discussions on the various topics studied.
French Route C - 4b	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will continue to be placed on ensuring that students have a grammatically sound command of both the written and the spoken forms of French. A thematic approach to language learning will be used, improving the student's linguistic ability and knowledge of more complex French. The module will be based on selected, more complex carefully graded texts and materials compiled from a variety of sources made available to students through Studynet. Students will participate in discussions on a variety of topics focusing on cultural issues, tourism and the world of work
French Route A - 4a	15 Credits	Optional
This module will enable students to communicate in French at a basic level in a range of everyday social situations. Students will learn to talk about themselves and their daily life, carry out reading and listening tasks and write short texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
French Route A - 4b	15 Credits	Optional
This module will enable students to communicate further in French at a basic level in a range of everyday social situations. Students will learn to talk about past and forthcoming events, carry out reading and listening tasks and write short texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
French Route B - 4a	15 Credits	Optional
This module broadens and consolidates the students’ competence in French. Students will learn to talk about student life and travel, carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including, for example, video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
French Route B - 4b	15 Credits	Optional
This module broadens and consolidates the students’ competence in French. Students will learn to talk about student life and travel, carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including, for example, video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
German Route C - 4a	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will be placed on ensuring that students have a grammatically sound command of both the written and the spoken forms of German. A thematic approach to language learning will be used, improving the student’s linguistic ability and knowledge of more complex German. The course will be based on selected, complex carefully graded texts, online and audiovisual materials compiled from a variety of sources made available to students through StudyNet. Typical themes of study will focus on social, economic and cultural issues. Student will be expected to take part in discussions on the various topics studied.
German Route C - 4b	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will continue to be placed on ensuring that students have a grammatically sound command of both the written and the spoken forms of German. A thematic approach to language learning will be used, improving the student's linguistic ability and knowledge of more complex German. The module will be based on selected, more complex carefully graded texts and materials compiled from a variety of sources made available to students through Studynet. Students will participate in discussions on a variety of topics focusing on cultural issues, tourism and the world of work.
German Route A - 4a	15 Credits	Optional
This module will enable students to communicate in German at a basic level in a range of everyday social situations. Students will learn to talk about themselves and their daily life, carry out reading and listening tasks and write short texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
German Route A - 4b	15 Credits	Optional
This module will enable students to communicate further in German at a basic level in a range of everyday social situations. Students will learn to talk about past and forthcoming events, carry out reading and listening tasks and write short texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
German Route B - 4a	15 Credits	Optional
This module broadens and consolidates the students’ competence in German. Students will learn to talk about student life and travel, carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including, for example, video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
German Route B - 4b	15 Credits	Optional
This module will extend the students’ competence in German through the introduction of more advanced language structures. Students will learn to discuss work and future plans, studying and living abroad. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.
Japanese Route A - 4a	15 Credits	Optional
This module will enable students to communicate in Japanese at a basic level in a range of everyday social situations. Students will learn to talk about themselves and their daily life, carry out reading and listening tasks and write short texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
Japanese Route A - 4b	15 Credits	Optional
This module will enable students to communicate further in Japanese at a basic level in a range of everyday social situations. Students will learn to talk about past and forthcoming events, carry out reading and listening tasks and write short texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
Spanish Route C - 4a	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will be placed on ensuring that students have a grammatically sound command of both the written and the spoken forms of Spanish. A thematic approach to language learning will be used, improving the student’s linguistic ability and knowledge of more complex Spanish. The course will be based on selected, complex carefully graded texts, online and audiovisual materials compiled from a variety of sources made available to students through StudyNet. Typical themes of study will focus on social, economic and cultural issues. Student will be expected to take part in discussions on the various topics studied.
Spanish Route C - 4b	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will continue to be placed on ensuring that students have a grammatically sound command of both the written and the spoken forms of Spanish. A thematic approach to language learning will be used, improving the student's linguistic ability and knowledge of more complex Spanish. The module will be based on selected, more complex carefully graded texts and materials compiled from a variety of sources made available to students through Studynet. Students will participate in discussions on a variety of topics focusing on cultural issues, tourism and the world of work
Spanish Route A - 4a	15 Credits	Optional
This module will enable students to communicate in Spanish at a basic level in a range of everyday social situations. Students will learn to talk about themselves and their daily life, carry out reading and listening tasks and write short texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
Spanish Route A - 4b	15 Credits	Optional
This module will enable students to communicate further in Spanish at a basic level in a range of everyday social situations. Students will learn to talk about past and forthcoming events, carry out reading and listening tasks and write short texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
Spanish Route B - 4a	15 Credits	Optional
This module broadens and consolidates the students’ competence in Spanish. Students will learn to talk about student life and travel, carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including, for example, video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
Spanish Route B - 4b	15 Credits	Optional
This module will extend the students’ competence in Spanish through the introduction of more advanced language structures. Students will learn to discuss work and future plans, studying and living abroad. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.

Level 5

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Performance Management and Reward	15 Credits	Compulsory
The module examines the role and contribution of reward management in achieving long term organisational and individual success and how reward management encourages commitment, engagement and performance of employees. Students will gain a wide understanding of how the business context drives reward strategies as well as developing an understanding of reward principles and the how reward intelligence is evaluated and implemented in HR policies and practices.
Organisational Psychology	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module will explore factors influencing people’s behaviour and the ways they experience work within organisations. The content includes looking at recruitment and selection, job design and motivation, and occupational stress. We reflect on how groups function in organisations and decision making.
Business and Enterprise Contexts	15 Credits	Compulsory
Human resource professionals need to understand key developments in the business and external contexts within which HR operates including the significance of enterprise and its impact on society. This module enables learners to identity and review the external contextual factors affecting organisations and assess the impacts of these factors on the HR function. It also allows students to demonstrate the commercial awareness that is critical to the profession.
Information Systems for HRM	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module complements other HR modules by recognising the importance of information management and systems in the HRM decision-making process, strategic HRM, organisational change and development and HR evaluation. The module also enables students to build on and expand their knowledge of HRM from both a theoretical and practical perspective. The module uses a range of teaching and learning methods to facilitate the student's learning experience including: lectures, tutorials, workshops, online discussions, podcasts and video. Lectures will seek to provide students with the theoretical underpinning of the subject, while tutorials/workshops will provide students with understanding of the impact of HR Information Systems (HRIS) in organisations as well as the critical review of information sources in an area of HR/business practice.
Enhancing Employability in Human Resource Management	15 Credits	Compulsory
The module is designed to equip the students with knowledge and understanding pertinent to employment as an HR practitioner. It aims to enhance personal skills to enhance their employment prospects while maintaining and enhancing their academic skills in HRM. As part of the module, students research, analyse and disseminate their understanding of the employment market for HR practitioners and construct their own personal marketing documents
Employment Law	15 Credits	Compulsory
This course provides an introduction to a range of aspects of Employment Law. It analyses the rights and duties of the employer and employees, and examines the role of the law in regulating the employment relationship. The introductory topics are the sources from which labour law is derived, the institutions in which it is administered, and the significance and content of the contract of employment.
Principles of Operations Management	15 Credits	Optional
The module is designed to provide a solid understanding of operations management methods. Students will gain experience together with knowledge of techniques and tools to support decisions made within the context of operations.
Exploring Business Ethics	15 Credits	Optional
This module aims to examine and reflect on the ethical behaviour of organisations and employees. To apply ethical theories to real and current organisational cases and activities and reflect on what responsibilities organisations have to society. It discusses guidelines, laws and external pressures and the impact these have on the ethical behaviour of organisations. The behaviour of employees and the individual choices that may when faced ethical dilemmas is also analysed. Content includes: ethical theorists, child labour, bribery, price fixing, working conditions, corporate social responsibility and whistleblowing.
Cross-cultural Management	15 Credits	Optional
The module aims to provide students an introduction to a contemporary, applied and critical approach to the study of cross-cultural management in an organisational context. It is particularly relevant to students of International Business and Human Resources, but should also be of interest to any student wishing to pursue a career in international business or involved in working within multi-cultural environments. It will consider a critical examination of cross-cultural management theories and models, cross-cultural aspects of leadership and motivation, cross-cultural communication and multi-cultural team working. Students will also explore theories and models related to expatriation, cross-cultural management and human resource practices and ethics.
Geopolitics	15 Credits	Optional
The world has been changing more rapidly since the turn of the century than at any time since the Second World War. Political risk is increasingly recognized as a key factor facing international business. This module seeks to provide students with a conceptual framework based on the geopolitical perspective (and related concepts in political science) that will enable them to identify the long-term factors behind day-to-day events and to explore and debate current geopolitical developments of relevance to international business. The module involves students in analysing the strategic position and prospects of major power centres within the global political system. The focus on particular parts of the world will provide a framework for exploring thematic issues such as the rise of new industrial powers like China and India and reasons for underdevelopment in other parts of the world.
French Route A - 5a	15 Credits	Optional
This module broadens and consolidates the students’ competence in French. Students will learn to talk about student life and travel, carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including, for example, video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
French Route A - 5b	15 Credits	Optional
This module will extend the students’ competence in French through the introduction of more advanced language structures. Students will learn to discuss work and future plans, studying and living abroad. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.
Spanish Route A - 5b	15 Credits	Optional
This module will extend the students’ competence in Spanish through the introduction of more advanced language structures. Students will learn to discuss work and future plans, studying and living abroad. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.
French Route B - 5a	15 Credits	Optional
This module further improves the students’ competence and confidence from study at level 4 in understanding and responding to more advanced written and spoken French Students develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially and will be exposed to a wider variety of contexts and language registers. The module will enable students to participate more fully in discussions and develop logical argument. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.
French Route B - 5b	15 Credits	Optional
This module further improves the students’ competence and confidence from study at level 4 in understanding and responding to more advanced written and spoken French Students develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially and will be exposed to a wider variety of contexts and language registers. The module will enable students to participate more fully in discussions and develop logical argument. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.
Spanish Route B - 5a	15 Credits	Optional
This module further improves the students’ competence and confidence from study at level 4 in understanding and responding to more advanced written and spoken Spanish. Students develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially and will be exposed to a wider variety of contexts and language registers. The module will enable students to participate more fully in discussions and develop logical argument. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.
Spanish Route B - 5b	15 Credits	Optional
This module enables students to improve further their competence and confidence from the previous semester in understanding and responding to more advanced Spanish. Students continue to develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially. The module will enable students to play a more active and spontaneous part in discussions and to use a wider range of phrases which express different shades of opinion in speaking and writing. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line news reports, blogs and magazine websites.
German Route A - 5b	15 Credits	Optional
This module will extend the students’ competence in German through the introduction of more advanced language structures. Students will learn to discuss work and future plans, studying and living abroad. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.
German Route A - 5a	15 Credits	Optional
This module broadens and consolidates the students’ competence in German. Students will learn to talk about student life and travel, carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including, for example, video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
German Route B - 5a	15 Credits	Optional
This module further improves the students’ competence and confidence from study at level 4 in understanding and responding to more advanced written and spoken German. Students develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially and will be exposed to a wider variety of contexts and language registers. The module will enable students to participate more fully in discussions and develop logical argument. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.
German Route B - 5b	15 Credits	Optional
This module enables students to improve further their competence and confidence from the previous semester in understanding and responding to more advanced German. Students continue to develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially. The module will enable students to play a more active and spontaneous part in discussions and to use a wider range of phrases which express different shades of opinion in speaking and writing. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line news reports, blogs and magazine websites.
German Route C - 5a	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will continue to be placed on improving the students' linguistic ability and knowledge through the in depth study of selected political, cultural, linguistic and economic topics relating to German speaking countries. The module will be based on materials taken from written and audiovisual materials compiled from a variety of sources such as online newspapers, magazines. Students will be expected to research their own materials and present their findings in class discussions.
German Route C - 5b	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will continue to be placed on improving the student’s linguistic ability and knowledge so as to equip them with the skills necessary to study and work in a German speaking country. The module will be based on materials taken from written and audiovisual materials compiled from a variety of sources such as online newspapers, magazines and company websites. Students will research their own materials to be analysed and presented in class discussions.
Mandarin Route A - 5a	15 Credits	Optional
This module broadens and consolidates the students’ competence in Mandarin Chinese. Students will learn to talk about student life and travel, carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. Chinese characters will be introduced. The module will be delivered via on-line materials including video clips and Chinese websites.
Mandarin Route A - 5b	15 Credits	Optional
This module will extend the students’ competence in Mandarin Chinese through the introduction of more advanced language structures. Students will learn to discuss work and future plans, studying and living abroad. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be delivered via on-line materials including video clips and Chinese websites.
French Route C - 5a	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will continue to be placed on improving the students' linguistic ability and knowledge through the in depth study of selected cultural, linguistic and economic topics on the French regions. The module will be based on materials taken from written and audiovisual materials compiled from a variety of sources such as online newspapers, magazines. Students will be expected to research their own materials and present their findings in class discussions.
French Route C - 5b	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will continue to be placed on improving the student’s linguistic ability and knowledge so as to equip them with the skills necessary to study and work in France and give them an understanding of demographic trends in Europe and France. The module will be based on materials taken from written and audiovisual materials compiled from a variety of sources such as online newspapers, magazines and company websites. Students will research their own materials to be analysed and presented in class discussions.
Spanish Route C - 5b	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will continue to be placed on improving the student’s linguistic ability and knowledge so as to equip them with the skills necessary to study and work in Spain. The module will be based on materials taken from written and audiovisual materials compiled from a variety of sources such as online newspapers, magazines and company websites. Students will research their own materials to be analysed and presented in class discussions.
Spanish Route A - 5a	15 Credits	Optional
This module broadens and consolidates the students’ competence in Spanish. Students will learn to talk about student life and travel, carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including, for example, video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
Spanish Route C - 5a	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will continue to be placed on improving the students' linguistic ability and knowledge through the in depth study of selected political, cultural, linguistic and economic topics of selected Spanish-speaking countries in Latin America. The module will be based on materials taken from written and audiovisual materials compiled from a variety of sources such as online newspapers, magazines. Students will be expected to research their own materials and present their findings in class discussions.
Japanese Route A - 5b	15 Credits	Optional
This module will extend the students’ competence in Japanese through the introduction of more advanced language structures. Students will learn to discuss work and future plans, studying and living abroad. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.
Japanese Route A - 5a	15 Credits	Optional
This module broadens and consolidates the students’ competence in Japanese. Students will learn to talk about student life and travel, carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including, for example, video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
Japanese Route B-5A	15 Credits	Optional
This module further improves your competence and confidence from study at levels 4 in understanding and responding to more advanced written and spoken Japanese. You will develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially and you will be exposed to a wider variety of contexts and language registers. The module will enable you to participate more fully in discussions and develop logical argument. You will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.
Japanese Route B-5B	15 Credits	Optional
This module enables you to improve further your competence and confidence from the previous semester in understanding and responding to more advanced Japanese. You continue to develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially. The module will enable you to play a more active and spontaneous part in discussions and to use a wider range of phrases which express different shades of opinion in speaking and writing. You will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line news reports, blogs and magazine websites.

Level 6

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Employment Relations	15 Credits	Compulsory
The module encourages students to critically evaluate different theories and perspectives on employment relations. It also equips students to be able to practically undertake important aspects of the employment relationship such as bargaining and conflict resolution. The module considers the roles of the key actors in employment relations: management, trade unions and the State. The module evaluates different employment relations approaches and evaluates the design and application of processes, policies and procedures in areas such as: discipline and grievance, dismissal, collective bargaining, individual and collective negotiation, employee engagement, conflict and industrial sanctions, conciliation, mediation and arbitration and diversity management. The module also focuses on the impact of legislation, both European and domestic, on employment relations.
International Human Resource Management	15 Credits	Compulsory
The module provides contemporary, applied and critical insights into the management of people across borders and in multinational corporations (MNCs). The HR implications of managing international assignments are investigated, and in-depth exposition provided of HR contexts and features in major global regions. The module appears to students specialising in HRM and international business, and is also relevant to those working/planning to work in an international environment. The content includes an analysis of differences between national and international HRM, examines structures and strategies of MNC's and the ethical issues impinging upon international business in the field of employment. The module also considers the management of the expatriation cycle-recruitment, training, pay, performance management and repatriation. An analysis of industrial relations structures/systems for employee participation in north America, Europe and Australasia and an exploration of political/economic environments and major features of HR/employment practice in these continents and developing countries.
Training and Development	30 Credits	Compulsory
The module provides a contemporary, applied and critical approach to the study of training and development at an individual, organisational, national and international level. It is appropriate for all students who anticipate being responsible for and are interested in the management and development of people at work. Practical activities enable students to develop the skills of a trainer. The module examines the roles and functions of training in organisations and explores individual and organisational strategies for training and development. The module includes: the training cycle of identification of training need, planning, delivery and evaluation of training; management of training; organisational and individual learning and the learning organisation. The national and international context to training and development is examined through a critical examination of differing governmental and stakeholder strategies for intervention in vocational training.
Placement Portfolio	0 Credits	Compulsory
This activity is self-directed by the student and carries no credits. Students will be supported by the Placement Visit Co-ordinator, The Placement Experience Module Leader, an Academic Mentor and the Centre for Academic Skills Enhancement (CASE). Successful completion of the placement leads to the award suffix ‘Sandwich’ on students’ degree title. Students who have been on placement are also eligible to apply for LCGI from City & Guilds, and should contact the Placement Experience Module Leader for more information on this.
Contemporary Issues in Human Resource Management	15 Credits	Compulsory
The emphasis of this module is on stimulating independent learning and understanding of how research and theory are used to understand HRM issues. The module provides a contemporary, research-based and critical approach to the study of the human resource management field in a strategic context, drawing upon related aspects of work, employment, organisation, society and policy as appropriate. The module will help students identify some of the key theoretical frameworks that underpin research and alternative research methods. Students will select topics in the HRM field and discuss if, and why, they are contemporary. Students will develop ways to identify and question the impact of research on HRM practice. Content may include contemporary debates on some of the following: synergy between HRM theory, application and practice with respect to broader organisational issues; current trends in work, employment, organisation, society and policy as they relate to the HRM field.
Industry Practice for Human Resource Professionals	15 Credits	Compulsory
In this module students will assess, develop and evaluate their employability skills through work-based learning. Students will use the professional CIPD framework to demonstrate competencies. Through their work, students will have opportunities to apply and critically evaluate HR academic theories and current business school research. Work-based learning opportunities include: placement, part-time work, internship, project work, involvement in research or volunteering.
Contemporary Developments in HRD	30 Credits	Compulsory
The module provides a contemporary, applied and critical approach to the study of HRD both within and beyond the organisational context. The module examines the roles and functions of HRD at individual, group and organisational levels. Practical activities enable students to develop professional skills for helping others learn and develop. It is appropriate for all students who anticipate being responsible for and are interested in the management and development of people at work whether in a specialist HR or general management role.
Diversity and Equality at Work	15 Credits	Compulsory
The module aims to develop an understanding of inequalities and diversity at work. Its approach is to explain and critically analyse concepts such as job segregation on the basis of race and gender, different patterns of work and time, and pay inequality. It will consider these questions from a historical perspective, centred on the UK but developing comparative perspectives with other European countries. The module will consider and critically evaluate the various theories concerning gender and other questions of equality. In addition it will examine the relationships of women to the labour market in different periods, and the relationship between this and their domestic roles. The module will consider the role of the state, employers and trade unions in relation to equality and diversity at work, and will examine the legal framework underpinning these issues.
HBS Placement	0 Credits	Compulsory
This activity is self-directed by the student and carries no credits. Students will be supported by the Professional Experience Module Leader, Professional Experience Visit Co-ordinator, an Academic Mentor and the Centre for Academic Skills Enhancement (CASE). Successful completion of the Professional Experience Module leads to the appropriate suffix on students’ degree title stated on the programme specifications.
Industrial Placement Sem B only	0 Credits	Optional

Industrial Placement Year	0 Credits	Optional

Placement Study Abroad (South East Asia)	0 Credits	Optional
The student will complete a period of study abroad at a partner institution following an appropriate programme of study, set out in a learning agreement, agreed by the student, the programme tutor at Hertfordshire and the international office at the partner institution. The programme of study in a placement year is less prescribed and can both reflect the interests of the student in their discipline area or to broaden their education.
Supply Chain Management	15 Credits	Optional
The focus of this module is on the theory and practice of supply chain management in the context of organisations. Topics to be covered in this module include: logistics, supply chain strategy, supply chain performance, supplier relationships; managing quality; matching supply and demand and the concept of lead-time in the supply chain; inventory control, designing global supply chains; aggregate planning; coordination in supply chains, risk management in supply chains, supply chain integration, sustainability in supply chains, and business analytics in supply chains.
Business and Commercial Awareness	15 Credits	Optional
This module is essentially supported by lectures and workshop-based, where students will role play members of an organisational management team as they develop plan and implement a new product or service for their organisation. The lectures will present theoretical underpinnings for each of the activities required for the case. The workshops will allow students the opportunity to apply theory and develop the skills required via a selection of shorter case based exercises. The module will consolidate functional business knowledge and provide students with an opportunity to integrate theories and gain experience in a simulated business environment.
Placement Study Abroad (North America)	0 Credits	Optional

Placement Study Abroad (Australia)	0 Credits	Optional

Placement Study Abroad A (Europe)	0 Credits	Optional

Placement Study Abroad B (Europe)	0 Credits	Optional

Placement Study Abroad (Europe)	0 Credits	Optional

Industrial Placement (Semester A)	0 Credits	Optional

Dissertation - Human Resources	30 Credits	Optional
The dissertation offers the opportunity to undertake an individual piece of work that is designed to develop research skills relevant to a specific area of study. Students will be allocated an academic supervisor who will meet with students on a regular basis. On completion of the research, students will be required to produce a dissertation of between 7,000 to 10,000 words. The dissertation will be assessed using the Business School dissertation criteria that cover the management of the dissertation, the methodology used, the intellectual quality and originality, and the structure and coherence of the report.
Creative Problem Solving for Managers	15 Credits	Optional
This module is very practically orientated and hands-on. It is aimed at anyone intending to become an effective manager, consultant or business analyst. The really important problems and crucial decisions faced by professionals in their work are often complex and ill-defined. They are known as “wicked” problems or “messes”. Problem structuring (or soft systems) methods have been developed to help us cope in these challenging, unstructured situations. Often much of the difficulty is due to people’s differing perspectives, the worrying uncertainties or the multiple interacting and dynamic factors. Imaginative approaches are needed to rigorously analyse messy, qualitative issues. Problem structuring methods take a holistic view and are highly effective. The three methodologies selected are: SODA Soft Systems Methodology System Dynamics With the right expertise and a suitable toolkit of methods, the manager or consultant can choose appropriate techniques, and creatively combine and tailor them to tackle any problem with confidence.
Research Methods	0 Credits	Optional
This non-credit bearing module of study is designed to provide students with sufficient research skills in order to successfully undertake a dissertation and/or research project. Key themes covered by the module, include: Primary and secondary research Formulating the research objectives/questions Quantitative and qualitative research methods (inc. sampling) Writing the methodology chapter The need for a theoretical underpinning, and writing the literature review Ethics considerations and the approval process Presenting research findings.
Leadership and Organisations	15 Credits	Optional
This module explores leadership and management within the context of the business organisation, complementing the knowledge and understanding of strategic issues developed through studies on the companion module 6BUS1143 Business Strategy. It examines the development of leadership and management theory as well as discussing contemporary applications of theoretical approaches. Leadership styles and models are analysed, including their impact on follower performance. Students will be constantly reminded that the leaders of organisations often experience strategy in action/implementation as a messy, unstructured process. Up-to-date real world examples will be used, together with textbook cases, to appraise the effectiveness of particular organisational leadership styles and to show how strategic leaders and their followers interact in practice.
Business Strategy	15 Credits	Optional
The module will introduce students to a range of issues and challenges confronting strategic leaders of public, private and third sector organisations in a turbulent global environment. It will focus on the many conflicting perspectives within the subject of strategic management and consider the problems involved in researching and developing strategies and plans and implementing them within the limitations of the organisation. It considers a range of analytical techniques and concepts, both applying them and critically evaluating their usefulness through the use of case study work. The module includes a comprehensive review of current strategic issues, identifying the contradictions and paradoxical nature of strategic decision-making and strategic planning. This module’s coverage of the themes of strategic position and strategic choice is designed to complement the study of strategy in action/implementation in the companion module 'Leadership and Organisations'.
Contemporary Issues in Ethics, Business and Sustainability	15 Credits	Optional
This module enables students to identify and evaluate a range of national and global approaches to sustainability, exploring the various meanings attached to the word ‘sustainability’ and alternative strategies and drivers. Students will discuss the technology which businesses, and government agencies are using to develop and evaluate their practice in this area. Issues of ethics and social responsibility, stakeholders, political legitimacy and economic longevity will be considered together with the ecological issues which are the main focus of current media debates. Students will gain the ability to identify and explain the major developments in national and global sustainability practice in the twenty-first century and to compare and contrast alternative approaches, supporting an informed choice of a personal ethical and practical stance to guide their future handling of sustainability issues.
German Mini Project	15 Credits	Optional
This module provides students with an opportunity, under tutorial guidance, to choose a topic of interest to them related to an aspect of the social, political, economic or cultural life of a German -speaking country, to research a topic, using authentic materials to write an essay on the topic in German.
Spanish Mini Project	15 Credits	Optional
This module provides students with an opportunity, under tutorial guidance, to choose a topic of interest to them related to an aspect of the social, political, economic or cultural life of a Spanish -speaking country, to research a topic, using authentic materials to write an essay on the topic in Spanish.
German Project	30 Credits	Optional
This module provides students with an opportunity, under tutorial guidance, to choose a topic of interest to them related to an aspect of the social, political, economic or cultural life of a German.-speaking country, to research a topic, using authentic materials to write a project on the topic in German. Students are encouraged to conduct interviews with native German-speakers, having completed the necessary University formalities to obtain Ethics approval.
French Route A - 6a	15 Credits	Optional
This module further improves the students’ competence and confidence from study at levels 4 and 5 in understanding and responding to more advanced written and spoken French. Students develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially and will be exposed to a wider variety of contexts and language registers. The module will enable students to participate more fully in discussions and develop logical argument. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.
French Route A - 6b	15 Credits	Optional
This module enables students to improve further their competence and confidence from the previous semester in understanding and responding to more advanced French. Students continue to develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially. The module will enable students to play a more active and spontaneous part in discussions and to use a wider range of phrases which express different shades of opinion in speaking and writing. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line news reports, blogs and magazine websites.
Spanish Route A - 6a	15 Credits	Optional
This module further improves the students’ competence and confidence from study at levels 4 and 5 in understanding and responding to more advanced written and spoken Spanish. Students develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially and will be exposed to a wider variety of contexts and language registers. The module will enable students to participate more fully in discussions and develop logical argument. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.
Spanish Route A - 6b	15 Credits	Optional
This module enables students to improve further their competence and confidence from the previous semester in understanding and responding to more advanced Spanish. Students continue to develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially. The module will enable students to play a more active and spontaneous part in discussions and to use a wider range of phrases which express different shades of opinion in speaking and writing. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line news reports, blogs and magazine websites.
French Route B - 6b	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will continue to be placed on ensuring that students have a grammatically sound command of both the written and the spoken forms of French. A thematic approach to language learning will be used, improving the student's linguistic ability and knowledge of more complex French. The module will be based on selected, more complex carefully graded texts and materials compiled from a variety of sources made available to students through Studynet. Students will participate in discussions on a variety of topics focusing on cultural issues, tourism and the world of work.
French Route B - 6a	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will be placed on ensuring that students have a grammatically sound command of both the written and the spoken forms of French. A thematic approach to language learning will be used, improving the student’s linguistic ability and knowledge of more complex French. The course will be based on selected, complex carefully graded texts, online and audiovisual materials compiled from a variety of sources made available to students through StudyNet. Typical themes of study will focus on social, economic and cultural issues. Student will be expected to take part in discussions on the various topics studied.
Spanish Route B - 6b	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will continue to be placed on ensuring that students have a grammatically sound command of both the written and the spoken forms of Spanish. A thematic approach to language learning will be used, improving the student's linguistic ability and knowledge of more complex Spanish. The module will be based on selected, more complex carefully graded texts and materials compiled from a variety of sources made available to students through Studynet. Students will participate in discussions on a variety of topics focusing on cultural issues, tourism and the world of work
German Route A - 6a	15 Credits	Optional
This module further improves the students’ competence and confidence from study at levels 4 and 5 in understanding and responding to more advanced written and spoken German. Students develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially and will be exposed to a wider variety of contexts and language registers. The module will enable students to participate more fully in discussions and develop logical argument. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.
German Route A - 6b	15 Credits	Optional
This module enables students to improve further their competence and confidence from the previous semester in understanding and responding to more advanced German. Students continue to develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially. The module will enable students to play a more active and spontaneous part in discussions and to use a wider range of phrases which express different shades of opinion in speaking and writing. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line news reports, blogs and magazine websites.
German Route B - 6a	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will be placed on ensuring that students have a grammatically sound command of both the written and the spoken forms of German. A thematic approach to language learning will be used, improving the student’s linguistic ability and knowledge of more complex German. The course will be based on selected, complex carefully graded texts, online and audiovisual materials compiled from a variety of sources made available to students through StudyNet. Typical themes of study will focus on social, economic and cultural issues. Student will be expected to take part in discussions on the various topics studied.
German Route B - 6b	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will continue to be placed on ensuring that students have a grammatically sound command of both the written and the spoken forms of German. A thematic approach to language learning will be used, improving the student's linguistic ability and knowledge of more complex German. The module will be based on selected, more complex carefully graded texts and materials compiled from a variety of sources made available to students through Studynet. Students will participate in discussions on a variety of topics focusing on cultural issues, tourism and the world of work
Mandarin Route A - 6a	15 Credits	Optional
This module further improves the students’ competence and confidence from study at levels 4 and 5 in understanding and responding to more advanced written and spoken Mandarin Chinese. Students develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially and will be exposed to a wider variety of contexts and language registers. The module will enable students to participate more fully in discussions and develop logical argument. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be delivered via on-line materials including video clips and Chinese websites.
Mandarin Route A - 6b	15 Credits	Optional
This module enables students to improve further their competence and confidence from the previous semester in understanding and responding to more advanced Mandarin Chinese. Students continue to develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially. The module will enable students to play a more active and spontaneous part in discussions and to use a wider range of phrases which express different shades of opinion in speaking and writing. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be delivered via on-line materials including video clips and Chinese websites.
French Route C - 6a	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will continue to be placed on improving the student’s linguistic ability primarily through the study of selected themes taken from online newspapers,magazines,websites. Students will acquire a better understanding of contemporary France through the study of selected events of great importance to French society in the first part of the 20th century. Students will be expected to research their own materials and present them in discussions, analysing them and reflecting upon them. Complex and more subtle grammatical points will be analysed through the study of texts.
French Route C - 6b	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will continue to be placed on improving the student’s linguistic ability primarily through the study of selected themes taken from online newspapers, magazines, websites. Students will continue to develop an understanding of the relationship between key aspects of contemporary France and historical facts which occurred in the second part of the 20th century. Students will be expected to research their own materials and present them in discussions, analysing them and reflecting upon them. Complex and more subtle grammatical points will be analysed through the study of texts.
Spanish Route C - 6a	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will continue to be placed on improving the student’s linguistic ability primarily through the study of selected themes taken from online newspapers,magazines,websites chosen specifically to illustrate contemporary issues in the Spanish-speaking world. Students will be expected to research their own materials and present them in discussions, analysing them and reflecting upon them. Complex and more subtle grammatical points will be analysed through the study of texts
Spanish Route C - 6b	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will continue to be placed on improving the student’s linguistic ability primarily through the study of selected themes taken from online newspapers, magazines, websites chosen specifically to illustrate contemporary issues in the Spanish-speaking world. Students will be expected to research their own materials and present them in discussions, analysing them and reflecting upon them. Complex and more subtle grammatical points will be analysed through the study of texts.
Italian Route A - 6a	15 Credits	Optional
This module further improves the students’ competence and confidence from study at levels 4 and 5 in understanding and responding to more advanced written and spoken Italian. Students develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially and will be exposed to a wider variety of contexts and language registers. The module will enable students to participate more fully in discussions and develop logical argument. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.
Italian Route A - 6b	15 Credits	Optional
This module enables students to improve further their competence and confidence from the previous semester in understanding and responding to more advanced Italian. Students continue to develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially. The module will enable students to play a more active and spontaneous part in discussions and to use a wider range of phrases which express different shades of opinion in speaking and writing. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line news reports, blogs and magazine websites.
Spanish Route B - 6a	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will be placed on ensuring that students have a grammatically sound command of both the written and the spoken forms of Spanish. A thematic approach to language learning will be used, improving the student’s linguistic ability and knowledge of more complex Spanish. The course will be based on selected, complex carefully graded texts, online and audiovisual materials compiled from a variety of sources made available to students through StudyNet. Typical themes of study will focus on social, economic and cultural issues. Student will be expected to take part in discussions on the various topics studied.
Italian Route B - 6a	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will be placed on ensuring that students have a grammatically sound command of both the written and the spoken forms of Italian. A thematic approach to language learning will be used, improving the student’s linguistic ability and knowledge of more complex Italian. The course will be based on selected, complex carefully graded texts, online and audiovisual materials compiled from a variety of sources made available to students through StudyNet. Typical themes of study will focus on social, economic and cultural issues. Student will be expected to take part in discussions on the various topics studied.
Italian Route B - 6b	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will continue to be placed on ensuring that students have a grammatically sound command of both the written and the spoken forms of Italian. A thematic approach to language learning will be used, improving the student's linguistic ability and knowledge of more complex Italian. The module will be based on selected, more complex carefully graded texts and materials compiled from a variety of sources made available to students through Studynet. Students will participate in discussions on a variety of topics focusing on cultural issues, tourism and the world of work
Japanese Route A - 6a	15 Credits	Optional
This module further improves the students’ competence and confidence from study at levels 4 and 5 in understanding and responding to more advanced written and spoken Japanese. Students develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially and will be exposed to a wider variety of contexts and language registers. The module will enable students to participate more fully in discussions and develop logical argument. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.
Japanese Route A - 6b	15 Credits	Optional
This module enables students to improve further their competence and confidence from the previous semester in understanding and responding to more advanced Japanese. Students continue to develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially. The module will enable students to play a more active and spontaneous part in discussions and to use a wider range of phrases which express different shades of opinion in speaking and writing. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line news reports, blogs and magazine websites.
German Route C - 6a	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis w ill continue to be placed on improving the student’s linguistic ability primarily through the study of selected themes taken from online news papers, magazines, websites chosen specifically to illustrate contemporary issues in the German-speaking world. Students w ill be expected to research their own materials and present them in discussions, analysing them and reflecting upon them. Complex and more subtle grammatical points w ill be analysed through the study of texts.
German Route C - 6b	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will continue to be placed on improving the student’s linguistic ability primarily through the study of selected themes taken from online newspapers, magazines, websites chosen specifically to illustrate contemporary issues in the German speaking world. Students will be expected to research their own materials and present them in discussions, analysing them and reflecting upon them. Complex and more subtle grammatical points will be analysed through the study of texts.
Collective Employment Law	15 Credits	Optional
The law as a facilitator of change in the workplace and how it regulates, supports and restrains collective bargaining. Emphasis will be placed upon recent attempts to de-regulate the labour market and legislation designed to allow trade unions to claim recognition from particular employers. The importance of EU law in collective labour relations. The legal status and effect of collective agreements. The rights of trade unions and trade union members in the workplace. The law relating to industrial action with particular emphasis on the remedies available to management. The obligations to consult in advance of redundancies. European Works Councils and the Transnational Information and Consultation of Employers Regulations 1999.

Study abroad

Today’s businesses are working on an increasingly international scale, recruiting talent from all over the world and creating diverse, cross-cultural teams. It’s never been more important for human resources professionals to have an appreciation of the challenges and opportunities this brings and that’s something we’ll explore throughout your degree.

Our globally focused modules include International Environment of Business, Cross-Cultural Management, Geopolitics and International HRM. You can also choose optional language modules throughout your degree, including French, German, Spanish, Italian, Mandarin and Japanese.

Between your Second and Final Years, you’ll have the option of adding an extra year to your degree and spending it studying with one of our 30 partner universities worldwide. It’s an incredible experience that will boost your confidence, skills and career prospects.

Alternatively, you can use your extra year to take a year-long paid work placement in the UK or overseas, or split the year, studying abroad for half and working for the other half.

Find out more about Study abroad opportunities
Work placement

Adding real-world work experience to your CV can really help you stand out from the crowd when it comes to getting that great graduate job. At Hertfordshire, we give you lots of opportunities to do just that, working on live projects and going on placements.

We help you find out about different roles on work-shadowing days, get more in-depth insights on summer internships or even spend a whole year working – and getting paid.

Our year-long placements are optional and you can take one by adding an extra year between the Second and Final Years of your course. The experience will make a huge difference to your employability and, potentially, your degree results too.

Check out our student blogs

Alumni Stories

Elizaveta Zaskalko

Meet Elizaveta Zaskalko who has explored the tourism industry and shared her passion for travel. She currently works at Expedia Inc as Associate Market Manager.

Current job role	Associate Market Manager
Year of graduation	2016
Course of study	BA (Hons) Tourism Management with French

A passion for travel

Elizaveta always had a passion for tourism and knew her career would be within the industry. She currently works at Expedia Inc as Associate Market Manager in the Join Expedia Team (JET) and is responsible for the acquisition of new hotels in Kent.

She started at Expedia straight after graduating from the University in 2016, in the role of Market Associate in the Account Management team. After a year in post she decided to step out of her comfort zone and apply for a promotion in the expanding JET team.

Studying at the University gave her a vast knowledge of the tourism industry which she previously lacked and prepared her for entering the sector. Tourism is a diverse and global industry with many career opportunities for new graduates.

She says, 'When I started my studies, I knew that I wanted to work in the tourism industry but had no idea which part of it. As I progressed, I learned about so many different branches of the industry and it really helped me to narrow it down to the one I actually really enjoyed.'

Strong employment links

'The best thing about my course is that it prepared us for the working world. The programme had a huge focus on employability, which I think was incredibly useful. Coming out of university I knew where I wanted to go, what I wanted to do and how to achieve it.'

The employment focus and links to industry embedded into Elizaveta's degree are what persuaded her to study at Herts. Our courses are designed to give students great opportunities, prepare them for professional life and provide them with direct access to their chosen profession through expert teaching and tangible industry connections.

Elizaveta says, 'An important factor for me choosing to study at the University was being able to do an industry placement year, as it's very hard to get a job without work experience nowadays. My placement year was very challenging but it was one of the most useful experiences I have had so far.'

The best thing about my course is that it prepared us for the working world. The programme had a huge focus on employability, which I think was incredibly useful. Coming out of university I knew where I wanted to go, what I wanted to do and how to achieve it.

Alumni Stories

Abies Iriowen

Meet Abies Iriowen who has applied her degree to improve diversity and equality in businesses. She currently works as a Diversity and Inclusion Advisor at FDM Group.

Current job role	Diversity and Inclusion Advisor
Year of graduation	2018
Course of study	BA (Hons) Business and Event Management

University experience

Abies has fond memories of her time at the University of Hertfordshire and is grateful for all of the opportunities she had within and outside of her studies.

She stresses the importance of joining societies, going on trips and taking advantage of tutors. She says, that her studies gave her ‘the push to get practical work experience as they taught me great organisation skills and how to work well in a team.’

As part of her degree, Abies secured a placement at FDM group who then asked her to come back after she graduated. ‘I got to this point in my career by getting as much work experience as possible. I completed two summer internships before securing my placement.’.

Current career and future

As a Diversity and Inclusion Advisor, her role involves ‘managing school engagement programmes across the UK, supporting external conversations and diversity and inclusion, and delivering all Diversity and Inclusion Events across the country.’

In the future, she hopes to work her way up in an organisation to promote and support inclusive working environments.

I got to this point in my career by getting as much work experience as possible. I completed two summer internships before securing my placement.

What's next for my career?

Our human resources graduates often go into HRM graduate schemes, consultancy or HR related positions in the private, public or not-for-profit sectors. Whichever path you choose, you’ll have a sound knowledge of HRM and business management, as well as the transferable skills employers need.

Our BA Human Resource Management is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), so you’ll become an associate member when you graduate. The CIPD is a highly respected body in HR, so this is a real advantage.

You can also stay on at Hertfordshire and study at postgraduate level. We offer an MA Human Resource Management which can help you develop even more advanced expertise.

Our graduates have gone on to roles such as HR administrator, HR graduate trainee, HR manager and personnel officer with companies including Arcadia, Europcar, Marks and Spencer and Royal Mail. The course also gives you the skills to work in industrial relations, equal opportunities, training and development, and general management. Around 95% of our graduates have gone on to work or further study within six months of finishing this course. Students also consider an MA Human Resource Management upon starting their career.
View our Alumni profiles

Elizaveta Zaskalko Abies Iriowen
Key staff

Wendy Yellowley
Programme Leader

Course fact sheets
BA (Hons) Human Resource Management	Download
Human Resource Management with an Eastern Language	Download
Human Resource Management with a European Language	Download

Programme specifications
BA (Hons) Human Resource Management	Download
Languages Programme Specification	Download

Additional information
Sandwich placement or study abroad year	Optional
Applications open to international and EU students	Yes

International applicants

Apply through our international application portal

Home and EU applicants

Apply using the links below:

2020

Start Date	End Date	Link
28/09/2020	20/05/2021	Apply online (Full Time)
28/09/2020	20/05/2021	Apply online (Part Time)
28/09/2020	20/05/2021	Apply online (Full Time/Sandwich)
28/09/2020	20/05/2021	Apply online (Full Time/Sandwich)

2021

Start Date	End Date	Link
28/09/2021	20/05/2022	Apply online (Full Time)
28/09/2021	20/05/2022	Apply online (Part Time)
28/09/2021	20/05/2022	Apply online (Full Time/Sandwich)
28/09/2021	20/05/2022	Apply online (Full Time/Sandwich)

Fees and funding
Fees 2020
UK/EU Students

Full time
- £9250 for the 2020/2021 academic year
Part time
- £1155 per 15 credits for the 2020/2021 academic year
International Students

Full time
- £13000 for the 2020/2021 academic year
Part time
- £1625 per 15 credits for the 2020/2021 academic year
*Tuition fees are charged annually. The fees quoted above are for the specified year(s) only. Fees may be higher in future years, for both new and continuing students. Please see the University’s Fees and Finance Policy (and in particular the section headed “When tuition fees change”), for further information about when and by how much the University may increase its fees for future years.

View detailed information about tuition fees

Read more about additional fees in the course fact sheet

Other financial support

Find out more about other financial support available to UK and EU students

Living costs / accommodation

The University of Hertfordshire offers a great choice of student accommodation, on campus or nearby in the local area, to suit every student budget.

View detailed information about our accommodation

Please note that some of the images and videos on our course pages may have been taken before social distancing rules in the UK came into force.

Apply through Clearing

Apply through Clearing

BA (Hons) Human Resource Management

This course includes the sandwich year options of:

Work Placement*

Study abroad*

Additional requirements

Why choose this course?

What's the course about?

Indicative course structure

What will I study?

Check out our student blogs

Student Blogs

My week at a glance

Student Blogs

Something interesting for a prospective student to consider

Student Blogs

What I love most about my course

Student Blogs

Alumni Stories

Meet Elizaveta Zaskalko who has explored the tourism industry and shared her passion for travel. She currently works at Expedia Inc as Associate Market Manager.

A passion for travel

Strong employment links

Alumni Stories

Meet Abies Iriowen who has applied her degree to improve diversity and equality in businesses. She currently works as a Diversity and Inclusion Advisor at FDM Group.

University experience

Current career and future

International applicants

Home and EU applicants

2020

2021

Fees 2020

UK/EU Students

Full time

Part time

International Students

Full time

Part time

Other financial support

Living costs / accommodation