What you will study
In the first half of this module you'll examine what we mean by employment relations and how the different contexts in which organisations operate shape decisions made about HR policy and practice. This includes the influence of different regulatory regimes and of different forms of work and employment and you'll also look in depth at the social, political and economic changes that are transforming organisations and indeed the whole world of work.
In the second half you'll consider how these ideas may be applied to the practice area of employee relations and engagement. You'll also consider how effective employment relations support a positive organisational environment and affect performance and conflict. 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 that you know well. This may mean drawing on your own experience of organisations, as an employee, or perhaps as a volunteer, for example. You will also be offered case studies and will be encouraged to do your own research using the university’s online library. There will be 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, and you will 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.
Day school
There is a compulsory day school that will take place between the last week in August and the first week in September. Details of options and dates will be made available at the start of the module.
Vocational relevance
This module is part of a qualification that is intended to provide a route to professional membership of the CIPD if you wish to develop a career in HR management. It will also provide training in research and academic skills if you want to develop an academic career in the field of HR management.
More generally, by studying a postgraduate business qualification you may expect a positive impact on your career progression, as well as bringing improvements to the organisation.
If you have a disability
Written transcripts of any audio components and Adobe Portable Document Format (PDF) versions of printed material are available on the module website. Some Adobe PDF components may not be available or fully accessible using a screen reader.
If you’re using printed materials as part of reasonable adjustments to support your studies, note that printed versions of online materials are unavailable for this module.
To find out more about what kind of support and adjustments might be available, contact us or visit our disability support pages.