What you will study
In the first half of this module, you'll examine what we mean by strategic human resource management and how the different contexts in which organisations operate will shape the decisions they make about HR policy and practice. This includes the influence of different regulatory regimes and types of market economies, and you'll also look in depth at the social and technological changes transforming organisations and the whole world of work.
In the second half you'll consider how these ideas can be applied to the practice area of resourcing and talent management. You will consider workforce planning and the importance of talent management, and you'll look in depth at recruitment and selection, retention and managing exit from the organisation. Finally, you'll explore the important question of how to evaluate HR policies – that is, how to find out what really works and what does not.
Throughout this module, you'll be asked to relate your study of theory to practice in organisations which you know well. This may mean drawing on your own experience of organisations as an employee or perhaps as a volunteer. You'll also be offered case studies and will be encouraged to do your own research using the university’s online library. There will be a day school towards the middle of the module and four online tutorials to support you in your studies.
You'll develop and practise a number of skills, including postgraduate study skills and digital literacy skills. You'll also develop skills in strategy development, talent management, recruitment and selection and helping others to learn. You'll continue to develop as a reflective practitioner, planning your skill development and keeping a record of your plans.