MSc Human Resource Development in International Development

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Manchester

Program Overview

On the MSc Human Resource Development (International Development), you won’t just study HRD theory—you’ll actively apply it to real-world development challenges. The program is delivered by the Global Development Institute (GDI), Europe’s largest dedicated development research and teaching institute, which means you’ll be immersed in a research-rich environment with direct exposure to international case studies, policy debates, and applied projects. You’ll also benefit from Manchester’s extensive facilities, including access to specialist libraries, digital tools, and collaborative learning spaces that support both academic and professional skill-building.

Here’s how experiential learning is embedded into your studies:

Research-Led Teaching: You’ll work with GDI academics on applied projects, using development datasets and policy frameworks to critically evaluate HRD strategies in practice.
Group Projects & Case Studies: Modules such as Leadership, Development and Change and Organisation Development include collaborative assignments where you design HRD interventions for real organisational and societal challenges.
Independent Dissertation: You’ll complete a 12,000–15,000 word dissertation, often linked to professional concerns, allowing you to apply HRD and development theory to practical issues in international organisations or NGOs.
Digital Tools & Resources: Students have access to Manchester’s online learning environment, statistical software, and global development databases, supporting both qualitative and quantitative research.
Global Development Institute Facilities: As part of GDI, you’ll benefit from seminars, workshops, and guest lectures by practitioners from organisations such as the World Bank, UNDP, and DFID, connecting classroom learning with international practice.
Library Access: You’ll use the University of Manchester Library, one of the UK’s largest academic libraries, with specialist collections in international development, HRD, and social sciences.
Professional Networking: The program integrates opportunities to engage with Manchester’s industry and NGO partners, giving you exposure to policy debates and applied HRD practice in development contexts.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

On the MSc Human Resource Development (International Development), you’ll gain practical skills by working directly with real-world development challenges. The program is delivered by the Global Development Institute (GDI), Europe’s largest dedicated development research and teaching institute, which means you’ll be part of a vibrant research community with access to international case studies, policy debates, and applied projects. You’ll also benefit from Manchester’s extensive facilities, including specialist libraries, digital tools, and collaborative learning spaces that support both academic and professional skill-building.

Here’s how experiential learning is embedded into your studies:

Applied Research & Data Analysis: Training in qualitative and quantitative methods, with access to development datasets and policy frameworks to evaluate HRD strategies.
Group Projects & Case Studies: Modules such as Leadership, Development and Change and Organisation Development include collaborative assignments where you design HRD interventions for organisations and communities.
Independent Dissertation: A 12,000–15,000 word dissertation, often linked to professional concerns, applying HRD and development theory to practical issues in NGOs, governments, or international organisations.
Digital Tools & Resources: Access to Manchester’s online learning environment, statistical software, and global development databases, supporting advanced research.
Global Development Institute Facilities: Participation in seminars, workshops, and guest lectures from practitioners at organisations like the World Bank, UNDP, DFID, and Oxfam, connecting classroom learning with international practice.
Library Access: Use of the University of Manchester Library, one of the UK’s largest academic libraries, with specialist collections in HRD, international development, and social sciences.
Fieldwork & Placements: Opportunities to engage with external organisations through the University Living Lab and sustainability projects, applying HRD knowledge to real-world challenges.
Professional Networking: Integration into Manchester’s global alumni network and industry partnerships, offering direct exposure to employers and policy institutions.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Human Resource Development (International Development) at Manchester are prepared to take on influential roles in organisations that drive social and economic change worldwide. Alumni typically move into positions such as HRD specialist in international NGOs, organisational development consultant, policy advisor in government agencies, and training and capacity-building manager in multinational organisations. This program ensures you graduate with both professional credibility and global employability:

University Careers & Employability Service: You’ll benefit from Manchester’s dedicated Careers Service and Global Development Institute (GDI) career support, which provide tailored workshops, employer networking events, and access to exclusive job opportunities through the CareerConnect platform.
Employment Stats & Salary Figures: The University of Manchester consistently ranks among the Top 10 UK universities targeted by graduate employers (High Fliers 2025), with postgraduates reporting strong employment outcomes and competitive salaries within 15 months of graduation.
University–Industry Partnerships: The program is delivered by the Global Development Institute (GDI), which collaborates with organisations such as the World Bank, United Nations, Oxfam, and DFID, offering students exposure to real-world projects and policy debates.
Long-Term Accreditation Value: Manchester is ranked 2nd in the UK for Development Studies (REF 2021) and the Business School holds triple accreditation (AACSB, EQUIS, AMBA), ensuring your qualification is recognised globally.
Graduate Outcomes: Alumni have gone on to careers in international development agencies, consultancy firms, NGOs, and government ministries, reflecting the program’s strong reputation and practical relevance.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MSc Human Resource Development (International Development), students can continue their studies through PhD programs in Human Resource Development, International Development, or Organisational Studies. The Global Development Institute offers doctoral research opportunities, enabling graduates to contribute to cutting-edge scholarship and prepare for academic, consultancy, or policy leadership careers.