MSc Human Resource Management

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Lincoln

Program Overview

The MSc Human Resource Management at the University of Lincoln equips students to design and implement strategic HR solutions that drive organisational performance. It is ideal for those already working in HR or aspiring to enter the profession, offering both academic insight and practical skills with global recognition through CIPD accreditation.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 (Full-time)

In the first stage, students explore the foundations of HRM in a global and strategic context. Core modules such as Human Resource Management in a Global Context, Human Resource Strategy in a Business Context, and Analysing and Managing Performance introduce how HR aligns with organisational goals, focusing on performance management systems, leadership, and people analytics. Students also develop skills in Business Leadership for the HR Professional, enhancing decision-making, influencing, and team management.

Later in the program, learners deepen their expertise through modules like International Resourcing and Talent Management and People Management and Development, which cover recruitment, retention, and employee development strategies across diverse cultural and organisational settings. Optional modules such as Managing Employment Relations, Coaching and Mentoring for the HR Practitioner, or Learning and Talent Development allow students to tailor their studies to specific career interests.

Finally, the program culminates in a substantial Dissertation (Human Resource Management), where students investigate a real-world HR issue in depth, applying research methods and consultancy skills to produce a 15,000–18,000 word project that demonstrates professional competence.

Focus Areas

Strategic HRM and organisational performance
Global HR practices and cultural diversity
Talent management and employee development
Leadership, coaching, and mentoring
Employment relations and ethical HR practice

Learning Outcomes

Ability to critically analyse HRM theories and practices
Skills to design and implement HR strategies aligned with business goals
Competence in managing performance, talent, and employee relations
Research and consultancy skills for solving complex HR challenges
Professional readiness for CIPD membership and career advancement

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD). Graduates gain both the MSc qualification and globally recognised Associate Membership of CIPD, meeting essential requirements for HR professionals worldwide.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

The University of Lincoln is a member of AACSB, a prestigious global accreditation body for business schools. Graduates of this MSc have progressed into HR advisor, business partner, and managerial roles in multinational organisations, with alumni working across the UK and internationally.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students on the MSc Human Resource Management at Lincoln gain practical, career-ready skills by engaging with real-world HR challenges, industry-linked projects, and professional development activities. The program is designed to blend theory with practice, ensuring that graduates leave not only with academic knowledge but also with the tools, confidence, and professional recognition needed to succeed in HR roles worldwide. Learning is supported by the Lincoln International Business School’s modern facilities, access to specialist resources, and the opportunity to apply HR strategies in consultancy-style projects and research.

To make this practical focus clear, here are some of the hands-on opportunities and facilities students benefit from:

Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) accreditation: Students gain Associate Membership of CIPD, ensuring direct alignment with professional practice and standards.
Dissertation with consultancy focus: The final project requires students to investigate a real HR issue, applying research and problem-solving skills to deliver practical solutions.
Industry links and business engagement: The program is taught within the Lincoln International Business School, which maintains strong connections with employers and HR professionals, offering networking opportunities and exposure to current HR practices.
Specialist library and digital resources: Students have access to the University’s Great Central Warehouse Library, alongside HRM-specific journals, databases, and digital tools to support research and professional development.
Collaborative learning environment: Group projects and case studies form a core part of the curriculum, encouraging teamwork, leadership, and peer-to-peer learning.
Professional development modules: Courses such as Business Leadership for the HR Professional and Coaching and Mentoring for the HR Practitioner are designed to build practical leadership and interpersonal skills.
Modern campus facilities: Based at the Brayford Pool campus, students benefit from contemporary teaching spaces, business school resources, and access to Lincoln’s wider student support and career services.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Human Resource Management at Lincoln are well-prepared for senior roles in HR and people management. Typical career paths include HR Business Partner, Talent Manager, Learning & Development Specialist, and Employee Relations Advisor. With CIPD accreditation and strong employer links, the program ensures students graduate with both academic expertise and professional recognition.

Here’s how the University of Lincoln supports your career progression:

Dedicated Careers & Employability Service: Lincoln provides tailored support through one-to-one guidance, CV workshops, interview preparation, and employer networking events, helping students secure HR roles across industries.
Employment stats and salary figures: The University of Lincoln reports that 91% of postgraduate taught graduates are in work or further study within 15 months of graduation (Graduate Outcomes Survey, 2020/21). HR professionals in the UK typically earn between £35,000–£55,000, with senior managers exceeding this range.
University–industry partnerships: The Lincoln International Business School maintains strong connections with employers and HR professionals, offering guest lectures, case studies, and consultancy-style projects that mirror real workplace challenges.
Long-term accreditation value: The program is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), granting graduates Associate Membership. This professional status is globally recognised and provides a pathway to higher CIPD membership levels as your career advances.
Graduation outcomes: Alumni have progressed into HR leadership roles in multinational organisations, public sector bodies, and consultancy firms, demonstrating the program’s strong employability record.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MSc Human Resource Management, students may choose to continue their academic journey through a PhD in Human Resource Management or related fields at the University of Lincoln. This pathway allows graduates to pursue advanced research in HR strategy, organisational behaviour, or employment relations, contributing to academic scholarship while enhancing career prospects in academia, consultancy, or senior HR leadership.