Best Universities for Human Resource Management in the UK

Human resource management (HRM) plays a role in every organization as it involves tasks like recruitment, training, growth and employee retention. Professionals in HRM must possess a skill set and extensive knowledge to effectively handle the challenges that arise in today's ever changing business landscape. If you are considering a career in HRM exploring the universities for human resource management, in the United Kingdom could be a step.

Explore HRM Courses and Programs

In the UK there are options for HRM courses and programs at various levels, including undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma and certificate programs. You have the flexibility to select from an array of specializations like HRM, strategic HRM, employee relations, diversity and inclusion performance management, learning and development and many others. Additionally if you prefer a convenient approach to learning, online or distance learning options are also available.

Some of the top universities for HRM courses and programs in the UK are:

1. University of Edinburgh:

The University of Edinburgh is recognized as the best in the world for HRM according to QS World University Rankings 2022. They provide a one year full time MSc program in Human Resource Management, which has received accreditation from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD). This program covers areas such as HR theory and practice employment relations organizational behavior, research methods and international HRM. Additionally students have the opportunity to choose between completing a dissertation or engaging in a consultancy project with an organization.

2. University of Manchester:

The University of Manchester ranked 27th globally for HRM according to the QS World University Rankings 2022 provides a one year full time MSc, in International Human Resource Management and Comparative Industrial Relations. This program is accredited by the CIPD. Emphasizes the study of various employment relations systems and HR practices across different nations. Additionally it covers topics, like multinational corporations, migration, labor standards and corporate social responsibility.

3. University of Leeds:

The University of Leeds which is ranked 93rd in the world for HRM according to the QS World University Rankings 2022 provides an one year full time MA, in Human Resource Management. This program has received accreditation from the CIPD. Encompasses areas including strategic HRM, employee engagement, talent management, leadership development and employment law. Additionally students have the opportunity to choose between a placement or an international study visit.

4. London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE):

The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) has been ranked 111th, in the world for HRM in the QS World University Rankings 2022 offers a two year full time MSc program in Human Resources and Organisations. This program consists of three streams; HRM, International Employment Relations and Human Resource Development and Organizational Behavior. The focus is on studying resources and organizations from a perspective with a strong emphasis on critical analysis. Additionally students will have the opportunity to engage with research centers and networks at LSE.

HRM Degree Options:

If you are looking for an undergraduate degree in HRM, you can choose from various options such as:

1. BA or BSc in Human Resource Management:

This is a three or four-year HRM degree that provides a comprehensive overview of the theory and practice of HRM. You will learn about core topics such as recruitment and selection, training and development, performance appraisal, employee relations, employment law, diversity and inclusion, and strategic HRM. You will also develop skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, critical thinking, and research. 

Some examples of universities that offer this degree are:

•  Aston University
• Northumbria University
• Oxford Brookes University 
• Keele University

2. BA or BSc in Business with Human Resource Management:

This is a three or four-year degree that combines the study of business management with a focus on human resource management. You will learn about core business topics such as accounting, finance, marketing, operations management, strategy, and ethics. You will also learn about specific HR topics such as employee engagement, talent management, leadership development, and international HRM. 

Some examples of universities that offer this degree are:

•  Loughborough University,
• Brunel University London
• University of Surrey 
• Cardiff University

3. BA or BSc in Management with Human Resources:

This is a three or four-year degree that integrates the study of management with a specialization in human resources. You will learn about core management topics such as organizational behavior, decision making, innovation, entrepreneurship, project management, and sustainability. You will also learn about specific HR topics such as strategic HRM, employee relations, diversity and inclusion, and learning and development. 

Some examples of universities that offer this degree are:

•  University of Warwick
•  University of Sheffield
•  University of Nottingham
• University of Glasgow

HRM Career Prospects and Specializations:

Studying HRM can open up a range of career opportunities in various sectors and industries, such as banking, retail, manufacturing, healthcare, education, hospitality, and more. You can work in different HR functions, such as:

• Recruitment and Selection: This involves attracting, screening, interviewing, and hiring the best candidates for the organization. You will also be responsible for designing and implementing recruitment strategies, policies, and processes.

• Training and Development: This involves planning, delivering, and evaluating training programs and activities for the employees. You will also be responsible for identifying training needs, developing learning objectives and outcomes, and assessing the impact of training on performance and productivity.

• Performance Management: This involves setting, monitoring, and reviewing the performance goals and standards for the employees. You will also be responsible for providing feedback, coaching, recognition, and rewards to the employees.

• Employee Relations: This involves managing the relationship between the employer and the employees. You will also be responsible for handling grievances, disputes, conflicts, disciplinary actions, and legal issues.

• Compensation and Benefits: This involves designing and administering the pay and benefits packages for the employees. You will also be responsible for conducting market research, benchmarking, and analysis to ensure fair and competitive compensation and benefits.

• Diversity and Inclusion: This involves promoting a culture of diversity, inclusion, and belonging in the organization. You will also be responsible for implementing policies and practices that support diversity and inclusion, such as equal opportunities, anti-discrimination, and affirmative action.

Depending on your interests and skills, you can also choose to HRM specialization in a particular area, such as:

• International HRM: This involves managing the HR issues and challenges in a global context. You will also be responsible for understanding the cultural differences, legal systems, and business practices of different countries and regions.

• Strategic HRM: This involves aligning the HR strategies and practices with the organisational goals and objectives. You will also be responsible for contributing to the strategic planning, decision making, and change management of the organisation.

• Human Resource Development: This involves enhancing the human capital of the organisation through learning and development interventions. You will also be responsible for fostering a learning culture, innovation, and knowledge management in the organisation.

• Organisational Behaviour: This involves studying the behaviour of individuals, groups, and teams in the organisational context. You will also be responsible for applying psychological theories, models, and concepts to understand and improve organisational performance, well-being, and effectiveness.

To pursue a career in HRM, you will need to have a relevant degree or qualification in HRM or a related field. You will also need to have certain skills and competencies, such as:

• Communication Skills: You will need to communicate effectively with different stakeholders, such as managers, employees, clients, and external partners. You will also need to use various communication methods, such as verbal, written, and non-verbal communication.

• Interpersonal Skills: You will need to build rapport, trust, and respect with different people. You will also need to use empathy, active listening, and emotional intelligence to understand and respond to their needs, feelings, and perspectives.

• Analytical Skills: You will need to collect, analyse, and interpret data and information to support decision making and problem solving. You will also need to use various tools and techniques, such as statistics, research methods, and software applications.

• Organisational Skills: You will need to plan, organise, and prioritise your work effectively. You will also need to manage your time, resources, and deadlines efficiently.

• Leadership skills: You will need to lead by example, inspire others, and motivate them to achieve their goals. You will also need to use various leadership styles, such as democratic, autocratic, or transformational leadership.

To enhance your career prospects in HRM, you may also want to obtain a professional accreditation from a recognised body, such as:

• The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD): This is the main professional body for HR specialists in the UK. It offers various levels of membership and qualifications for HR professionals at different stages of their career.

• The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM): This is the largest professional body for HR specialists in the world. It offers various certifications and resources for HR professionals at different levels of competency.

• The International Association for Human Resource Information Management (IHRIM): This is a professional body for HR specialists who focus on HR information systems and technology. It offers various certifications and events for HR professionals who want to enhance their knowledge and skills in this area.

Conclusion:

Human resource management is a rewarding and challenging career that requires a combination of academic knowledge and practical skills. By studying at one of the best universities for human resource management in the UK, you can gain a competitive edge in the HRM field. You can also benefit from the high-quality education, diverse culture, and rich history of the UK. You can find a suitable HRM course or program that matches your interests and goals, and choose from a variety of HRM specializations and functions. Moreover, you can enhance your career prospects by obtaining a professional accreditation from a recognized body. Studying HRM in the UK can help you develop your potential and prepare you for a successful career in HRM.