Human Resource Management - MA
Elevate your career and drive business success with our MA in Human Resource Management. This professional-oriented programme empowers you to master the core skills of strategic recruitment, talent retention, and workforce development in today's fast-changing environment. By blending deep academic knowledge with real-world practical application and valuable industry networking opportunities, you will build the vital expertise and competence needed to motivate teams, navigate organisational change, and directly shape high-level business strategy. This forward-thinking program will empower you to drive organiaational excellence, thrive as a modern HR professional, and ultimately become the visionary leader that modern businesses need.
Month of entry
- September, January
Mode of study
- Full time
Fees for 2026/27 academic year
- UK - Full time £11,700 per year.
International - £18,200 per year.
Fees
Duration of study
- Full time: 1 year | 'With placement': +6–12 months
This course is no longer accepting applications from international students for the 2026/27 academic year.
Why study Human Resource Management at Keele University?
About the course
Contemporary businesses have increasingly recognised that strategic human resource management is pivotal to driving employee engagement and securing elite talent. This industry-focused MA programme provides a robust foundation in both contemporary theory and real-world practice, equipping you with the specialized expertise required to excel in high-impact leadership roles. Whether your ambition is to become a professional HR manager, a talent development specialist, or an expert employee relations consultant, you will graduate fully prepared to lead organisational culture and accelerate your career in the global marketplace.
Aligned with the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) standards, our programme establishes a solid foundation in HR theories, practices, and professional skills. You’ll study core themes such as employment relationships, contemporary issues in the sector, and the external factors shaping HRM. You’ll analyse the management of geographically dispersed teams, examine the role of culture in international HRM, and explore the employee lifecycle framework, focusing on talent management, performance, retention, remote working, and work-life balance. Essential leadership and professional skills will be developed, identifying different leadership styles.
Central to this programme is a strong focus on advancing your professional development and providing practical industry engagement opportunities, strategically enhancing your employability. You’ll connect with experienced professionals, gain insights into the latest trends in your chosen field and have the opportunity to work directly with an organisation to develop solutions for a current business issue, gaining valuable real-world skills.
Our programme provides the flexibility to align your studies to your career aspirations through a core Professional Project. You can choose to undertake a research project, consultancy project, or a strategic business proposal.
Sustainability, ethics and responsible business practices are embedded throughout and by completing Keele Business School’s Sustainability Passport you’ll demonstrate your ability to incorporate sustainability practices in a professional context.
Located in an innovation park that fosters collaboration between academia and industry, Keele’s campus offers a supportive learning environment designed to prepare you to excel in the dynamic world of global business.
Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development
Keele Business School is an approved Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) centre. The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development is a professional association for people who work in human resource management, learning and development, and other related fields.
We have established close relationships with the North Staffordshire and South Cheshire CIPD Branch, providing our students with access to professional networking events and workshops. In addition, CIPD Midlands Area Partnership activities bring ten local CIPD branches in the area together, providing additional opportunities to access events, including student centred activities, such as induction and networking events. A member of our teaching staff is currently a Committee Member of the local North Staffordshire and South Cheshire CIPD branch, further cementing the important links between Keele Business School and the professional body for HR professionals.
"I was attracted to the course as it is a comprehensive programme that covers all the HR functions and the diversity is outstanding in Keele, you will see tens of nationalities. The lectures were very supportive and helpful, and I felt safe and secure while living on campus. The whole experience was like an interesting journey. It developed me theoretically and moved me to the next level. I started up my HR consultancy firm in London, which provides HR solutions to enterprises around the globe, which blend the HR theories I studied during the MA and my practical experience from professional employment."
Course structure
If you choose the 'with Placement' route, you will complete a 6-12 month placement module after the taught element of your programme.
What you will study
The module details given below are indicative, they are intended to provide you with an idea of the range of subjects that are taught to our current students. The modules that will be available for you to study in future years are prone to change as we regularly review our teaching to ensure that it is up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods, as well as student voice. The information presented is therefore not intended to be construed and/or relied upon as a definitive list of the modules available in any given year.
Compulsory modules
Business Consultancy Project (15 credits)
In the Business Consultancy Project, you will build foundational skills and gain practical experience by working directly with a real organisation to develop solutions to real-world challenges. You will learn to engage with businesses, frame organisational issues, and apply creativity and innovation. This module develops core skills in collaboration, communication, and problem-solving, preparing you for the Professional Project and Placement. It provides a strong foundation for success in other areas of the programme.
Professional Development and Industry Insights (15 credits)
This module helps you explore the industry you want to work in, including its structure, recruitment practices, and key trends. You will assess your own skills and experiences, identifying how you align with the industry’s needs and expectations. Through active learning, reflective activities, and guest speaker insights, you will develop practical knowledge and career planning skills. The module supports your progression into the Business Consultancy Project, Professional Project, and Placement, preparing you for future opportunities.
Human Resource Management: Theories, Strategy, and Insights (30 credits)
The module introduces foundational theories and concepts in the management of people as a means for understanding the basis of HRM. The starting focus is on the employment relationship followed by theoretical perspectives underpinning HRM practice. Environmental influences shaping HR policies and practices are also discussed alongside the benefits of and challenges in strategic HRM and contemporary HRM insights.
Managing People in a Global Context (15 credits)
This module explores theories and practices in managing international human resources, focusing on the transfer of HRM practices across borders. It examines strategic approaches, the role of culture in shaping HRM, and the challenges of managing geographically dispersed teams. Particular emphasis is placed on expatriate management, addressing the complexities of supporting employees in global assignments. This module provides a comprehensive understanding of international HRM and its impact on organisational success in diverse settings.
Managing Talent, Rewards, and Relations (30 credits)
This module provides an overview of human resource management (HRM) practices using the employee life cycle as a framework. It covers key topics such as talent management, performance, engagement, and retention, alongside contemporary issues including remote working and work-life balance. The module also examines employee rewards and their impact on talent management strategies. By addressing these areas, it equips you with the knowledge and skills to manage HRM effectively in evolving workplace environments.
Leadership, Skills and the HR Professional (15 credits)
This module examines the role of HR professionals and the skills required to excel in their positions, aligned with the CIPD Profession Map. You will engage in practical activities, exploring HR leadership styles and effective HRM practices. The module provides a comprehensive understanding of the competencies needed to navigate challenges in human resource management, equipping you to contribute effectively to organisational success in dynamic and evolving workplace environments.
Research Methods (15 credits)
This module will develop your analytical and research skills to develop competencies for future research or consultancy work. The module provides the essential guidance in conducting the research and problem solving activities that you will undertake as part of your professional project. The module includes how to scope a research or problem solving project, exploring underlying assumptions, designing an appropriate methodological approach and examining the ethical concerns of any research or problem solving project. The module will enable you to examine and apply appropriate paradigms for your sector and context, develop knowledge of the various research styles available to researchers, and explore epistemological rationales and ethical implications. In so doing you will develop an understanding of the potential strengths and weaknesses of each research style so as to enable the critical selection and use of the most appropriate research style, in the light of your chosen professional project.
Professional Project (45 credits)
In the Professional Project, you will undertake an independent piece of work that builds on academic and practical skills developed throughout the programme. You can choose from three routes: a research project, a consultancy project, or a strategic business proposal, aligned to your career aspirations. We will support you in preparing for your chosen path with essential research or consultancy skills. The module culminates in a detailed write-up and reflective analysis, showcasing your expertise and professional growth.
Postgraduate Study with Keele Business School
Keele Business School's range of postgraduate programmes aim to help you accelerate your career in business. Our authentic business school approach will help develop you in to one of the business leaders of tomorrow.
Entry requirements
The following section details our typical entry requirements for this course for a range of UK and international qualifications. If you don't see your qualifications listed, please contact us to find out if we can accept your qualifications.
Typical offer
Please ensure that you read the full entry requirements by selecting your qualifications from the dropdown menu below. This will include any subject specific, GCSE/Level 2 Maths, and English language requirements you may need.
Please select your country from the drop-down list below for the full entry requirement information
UK
2:2 degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Algeria
12/20 or Assez Bien degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Bahrain
Bachelor's degree with a minimum CGPA of 2.7/4.0 in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Bangladesh
60% in a 4-year degree or 3-year degree with a 2-year Master's in any subject from a public university or CGPA 2.8 in a 4-year degree or 3-year degree with a 2-year Master's in any subject from a private university
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
We don’t accept degrees from certain universities, please see our Bangladesh Country Page for more information
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Canada
70% or C or a GPA of 2.5 in a degree (Ordinary or Honours) in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
China
70% in a degree in any subject or 65% in a degree in any subject from a '211' university
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Egypt
Bachelor degree from a Public or Private University with 65%/CGPA = 2.7/Good in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Ghana
Second class degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Hong Kong
Bachelor's Honours degree with 2:2 or CGPA of 2.5 OR Bachelor Ordinary degree with a CGPA of 3.4 in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
India
55% or CGPA 6/10 in any degree of three years or longer
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Kenya
Second class degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Kuwait
Bachelor's degree with a minimum CGPA of 2.75/4.0 or 3.5/5.0 in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Nepal
60% / 2.4 in a 4-year Bachelor's degree in any subject
or
65% / CGPA 2.8 in a 3-year Bachelor's degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Nigeria
Second class degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Oman
Bachelor's degree with a minimum CGPA of 2.5/4.0 in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Pakistan
We accept a range of qualifications from Pakistan. Please visit our Pakistan Country Page for more information
or we will consider demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need an English language qualification (see below)
Qatar
Bachelor's degree with a minimum CGPA of 2.75/4.0 in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
South Africa
Second class division 2 / 60% in a Bachelor's degree with Honours in any subject
or
Second class division 1 / 70% in an Ordinary Bachelor's degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Sri Lanka
55% in a Special Bachelor's degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Turkey
A CGPA of 2.5/4.0 in a Bachelor degree (Lisans Diplomasi) in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
UAE
Bachelor's degree with a CGPA of 2.5/77%/B- in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Uganda
Second class degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
USA
Bachelor's degree with a minimum CGPA of 2.6 in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Zimbabwe
Second class degree in any subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Pre-Master's in Business
The Keele University International College offer a one semester Pre-Master's in Business programme for international students who do not meet the traditional entry requirements for a postgraduate business degree at Keele University.
Please visit the Keele University International College for more information on how to apply, entry requirements and course details.
English language requirements
All of our courses require an English language qualification or test. For most students, this requirement can be met with a 4 or C in GCSE English. Please see our English Language guidance pages for further details, including English language test information for international students. For those students who require an English language test, this course requires a test from Group B.
References
Normally, you will need to provide at least one academic reference to support your application unless you have been out of study longer than two years. If it has been more than two years since you last studied on a degree-level programme, you will normally need to provide an employment reference instead. For more information about Academic References, please see our Postgraduate how to apply web pages.
Personal Statement/Statement of Purpose
Please see our Postgraduate how to apply web pages for guidance on what to include in your personal statement.
Recognition of Prior Learning
The Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process which enables applicants to receive recognition and formal credit for learning acquired in the past through formal study or work and life experiences.
RPL can also be requested for admission onto the start of a programme in lieu of the admission requirements. For more information, see our Recognition of Prior Learning web pages.
Professional qualifications and work experience
The majority of our courses will consider relevant work experience and/or professional qualifications at the appropriate level, as an alternative to an undergraduate degree for entry. The work experience should be for a sustained period and at a suitable level, based within a relevant sector to your chosen course.
Admissions staff will review your work experience and/or professional qualifications during the assessment of your application to ensure suitability in terms of relevancy, level and appropriate learning outcomes.
General information
The entry grades outlined in this section indicate the typical offer which would be made to candidates, along with any subject specific requirements. This is for general information only. Keele University reserves the right to vary offer conditions depending upon a candidate's application. For international students, find out how we work with approved agents as part of our admissions process.
Postgraduate funding and scholarshipsFees, funding and scholarships
Fees
2026/27 academic year
For start dates between September 2026 and July 2027.
| Type of study | Fees (per year) |
|---|---|
| UK - full time | £11,700 |
| International - full time | £18,200 |
2027/28 academic year
For start dates between September 2027 and July 2028.
| Type of study | Fees (per year) |
|---|---|
| UK - full time | £12,200 |
| International - full time | £18,900 |
For continuing students, fees will increase annually by RPIX, with a maximum cap of 5% per year.
Placements: The placement year fee for students on a 'with Placement' programme will be £1,955 for 2026/27 entrants and £2,010 for 2027/28 entrants.
Funding
Whether you're continuing from undergraduate study or returning to education, our dedicated financial support team is here to help.
Please note, if your course offers a January start date, the January 2026 start date falls in the 2025/26 academic year. Please see the tuition fees archive for the 2025/26 fees.
Planning your funding
It's important to plan carefully for your funding before you start your course. Please be aware that not all postgraduate courses and not all students are eligible for the UK government postgraduate loans and, in some cases, you would be expected to source alternative funding yourself. If you need support researching your funding options, please contact our financial support team.
For continuing students, fees will increase annually by RPIX, with a maximum cap of 5% per year.
Scholarships
We know that understanding what support is available for postgraduate students is an important step in planning your future and we are committed to rewarding excellence and potential.
Visit our scholarships and bursaries webpage to find out more about our scholarships, including:
- Keele Global Scholarship – up to £5000 tuition fee discount for international students (2027/28)
- Keele Graduate Scholarship – up to £3000 tuition fee discount for home students (2027/28)
Terms and conditions apply.
Additional costs
Optional costs
There may be optional costs that students can choose to incur to enhance their learning experience. These are not required to complete the course. Details of these optional costs are outlined below to help you plan accordingly.
Students may also incur general expenses related to university study, such as for printing, textbooks and other materials. Students who undertake a placement may be responsible for additional costs, such as travel, accommodation, and subsistence costs. For further information, please refer to the additional costs information.
- travel/subsistence for client visits or business engagement you choose to undertake
- discretionary project expenses (e.g. travel for interviews, data purchase)
- optional UK/international study visits (including travel, accommodation, insurance)
- optional professional memberships/certifications, competitions, conferences, printing, and any premium software or equipment you elect to use are also at your own cost.
Funding or subsidies may occasionally be offered but are not guaranteed and may change vary from year to year. The School may amend or withdraw optional activities if needed necessary.
"Completing my MA gave me the initial confidence to apply for a role in a quite intimidating sector in the police force. On paper, I had very limited recruitment history, however the theoretical knowledge I learned allowed me to demonstrate the relevant competencies in the interview. Within six months, I was promoted to look after all recruitment, selection and onboarding for new officers who join the force. My MA set me apart from other candidates and has certainly enhanced my employability. It has not only strengthened my confidence and employability, but the structure of the taught side of the course and my dissertation aided my organisational skills and gave me real insight into how to strategically manage my time and deliver outcomes."
PRME Champions
Keele Business School is proud to have been selected for the 2026-2027 cohort of PRME Champions - a global collective of business and management schools who are dedicated to raising the bar for sustainable business education. Learn more about the Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME) Champions Programme: PRME Champions | UNPRME
"As an international student, coming to the UK for my studies has been an exciting and eye opening experience. It has been a great learning opportunity for me as I am more aware of what to expect in a real-life setting and how to handle situations as an HR practitioner. I am looking forward to pursuing my career and being an HR manager in the future. The staff in this University are amazing and they do an excellent job ensuring that students fully engage in discussions as well as have a full understanding of the course. In addition, the support received, diverse environment and exquisite facilities have made Keele more than just a place to learn but home for me. I encourage anyone coming to study at Keele, to take the bold step."
Teaching, learning and assessment
How you'll be taught
Teaching on our Human Resource Management MA combines interactive and applied learning methods to create a dynamic and engaging experience. You’ll benefit from interactive, in person lectures, small group tutorials, and web-based learning via the Keele Learning Environment (KLE). Independent study is encouraged, allowing you to explore your interests in greater depth, while reflective practice helps you evaluate and enhance your learning journey. Communication and teamwork skills are developed through peer-assisted learning and collaborative projects. Additionally, you’ll engage with real-world scenarios through live business challenges, company visits, and guest lectures, gaining valuable insights directly from industry professionals.
How you'll be assessed
You will be assessed using a wide variety of methods which reflect the breadth of the knowledge and skills you will have developed on the programme, including assignments, creative briefs, essays, group assessments, options, portfolios, presentations, research paper summaries, and reports.
"What I am enjoying most about my course is the opportunity to write a dissertation of my choice and have some leeway as to how I approach it. Also, since the start of postgrad, particular modules have allowed me to improve my presentation skills and boost my confidence. I really like how close-knit Keele is as a community, as well the beautiful scenery and peaceful walks through Keele woods!"
Co-located with businesses
As a Keele Business School student, you will study alongside innovative companies that are based in the Business School building, a hub for fostering networks and linking with industry.
Keele Business School is located at the heart of the Keele University Science & Innovation Park, one of the leading developments of its kind in the UK. The Park offers companies a business environment that provides an innovative research culture, combined with academic expertise and the University’s specialist resources, with a variety of opportunities for students to get involved, from internships, knowledge exchange partnerships, and student enterprise initiatives.
