MSc Human Resource Management

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

Lancaster University

Program Overview

Lancaster’s MSc Human Resource Management gives you a comprehensive understanding of HR principles and evolving practices, while preparing you for CIPD accreditation. It suits graduates from diverse disciplines or HR professionals seeking to deepen expertise, combining theory with practical application through case studies, role-play, and industry engagement.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 (Taught modules)

In the first stage, you’ll explore the foundations of HRM through modules such as Human Resource Management – Concepts, Theories and Practices, International HRM and Employee Relations, and Understanding Organisations – Contexts, Dynamics and Methods. These courses help you critically evaluate recruitment, employee wellbeing, and workforce diversity, while learning how organisations function internally and externally. You’ll also engage with ethical reflections and strategic HR approaches, ensuring you’re prepared to lead responsibly.

Year 2 (Dissertation stage)

The program culminates in a Dissertation supported by the module Advanced Professional Development, where you conduct independent research on a specialist HR topic. This allows you to apply theoretical frameworks to real-world challenges such as organisational change, employee engagement, or technological impacts on HR. You’ll be guided by Lancaster’s expert faculty, who bring industry connections and research insights into your project.

Focus Areas

Recruitment and selection, employee wellbeing, employment relations, organisational change, workforce diversity, and ethical HR practice.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will develop advanced HR knowledge, critical thinking, and the ability to align HR strategies with business goals, while gaining CIPD-recognized professional competencies.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), enabling graduates to achieve Associate Membership (Level 7) upon completion. This accreditation is internationally recognized and enhances long-term career mobility.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Top 100 globally for Business and Management (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025)
Ranked 13th in the UK for Business and Management (QS 2025)
Strong employer connections, with guest speakers from organisations such as Unilever, IBM, Accenture, NHS, Samsung, and Tesla (China)

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

One of the strongest features of Lancaster’s MSc Human Resource Management is how it integrates theory with practice. You won’t just study HR concepts in the classroom — you’ll actively apply them through consulting projects, case studies, and professional development modules. The program is designed to build confidence in tackling real HR challenges, supported by Lancaster’s Business School facilities, CIPD-aligned resources, and access to world-class libraries and research institutes.

To show you how experiential learning is embedded into the program, here are some highlights:

HRM Consulting Project: Work on a live consultancy-style project where you apply HR strategies to real organisational challenges, developing problem-solving and client-facing skills.
Case studies and role-play exercises: Modules such as Human Resource Management – Concepts, Theories and Practices and International HRM and Employee Relations use practical scenarios to simulate recruitment, negotiation, and employee relations decision-making.
Advanced Professional Development module: Focused on employability, this module helps you refine leadership, communication, and HR analytics skills through workshops and applied tasks.
Digital tools and HR analytics: Training in HR data analysis and decision-making tools prepares you for evidence-based HR practice, a skill increasingly valued by employers.
Lancaster University Library and online databases: Access extensive HRM, business, and management resources to support your dissertation and research projects.
Guest lectures and employer engagement: Hear directly from HR leaders at organisations such as Unilever, IBM, Accenture, NHS, Samsung, and Tesla (China), giving you insight into global HR practice.
Triple-accredited Lancaster University Management School (AMBA, AACSB, EQUIS): Learn in one of the UK’s leading business schools, with facilities designed to support collaborative projects and professional development.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Lancaster’s MSc Human Resource Management are well-prepared for impactful careers in HR leadership and consultancy. Typical roles include HR Manager, Talent Acquisition Specialist, Employee Relations Consultant, and Learning & Development Advisor. With CIPD accreditation and Lancaster’s strong employer links, you’ll be positioned to thrive in both UK and international HR markets.

Here’s how Lancaster supports your progression and future opportunities:

University services for employability: You’ll benefit from Lancaster’s Careers and Employability Service, which offers tailored one-to-one guidance, CV and interview workshops, employer networking events, and access to the Lancaster Award — a structured program that helps you showcase skills to employers.
Employment stats and salary figures: Lancaster consistently ranks among the UK’s top universities for graduate employability, with many Business School graduates securing professional roles within 15 months of graduation.
University–industry partnerships: The program connects you with HR leaders from organisations such as Unilever, IBM, Accenture, NHS, Samsung, and Tesla (China), offering guest lectures, case studies, and employer-led projects that bring HR practice to life.
Long-term accreditation value: The MSc is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), enabling graduates to achieve Associate Membership (Level 7). This globally recognized qualification enhances career mobility and credibility across industries.
Graduation outcomes: Alumni progress into HR Director positions, consultancy roles, and international HRM careers, leveraging Lancaster University Management School’s triple accreditation (AMBA, AACSB, EQUIS) to stand out in competitive job markets.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MSc Human Resource Management, you could continue your academic journey by pursuing a PhD in Management or Human Resource Studies at Lancaster. This pathway allows you to deepen expertise in areas such as organisational behaviour, employment relations, or international HRM, preparing you for advanced consultancy, academic careers, or leadership in global HR research.