Priya Purdy
International Human Resource Management, MSc
Introduction
This CIPD accredited programme will provide you with an understanding of international human resource management – in a operational, economical, political and social context. It will deliver a learning experience designed to give you the confidence and the skills to add value to employers upon graduating.
Study Information
Study Options
- Learning Mode
- On Campus Learning
- Degree Qualification
- MSc
- Duration
- 12 months or 24 months
- Study Mode
- Full Time or Part Time
- Start Month
- January or September
- Location of Study
- Aberdeen
This programme aims to develop knowledgeable practitioners with an appreciation of multi-cultural international practice. The programme will help you to be able to critically measure HR interventions using quantitative/qualitative, scientific and psychological approaches to managing human resources. This MSc will also equip you with the tools to critically examine and apply contemporary approaches to HR management within organisations that are operating in a global environment. It will cover the financial, project management and relationship skills you need to succeed in global HR management.
The University of Aberdeen draws on ancient heritage and globally recognised excellence in research and teaching to challenge students academically and to connect them with the world of practice. This MSc covers core areas in HR such as Resourcing and Talent Management, Managing Performance and Digital Engagement and Relationships. You’ll develop a thorough understanding of fundamental concepts, principles, theories, practices and legislative frameworks underlying international human resource management.
Available Programmes of Study
We build on professional core areas such as Resourcing and Talent Management, Managing Performance and Digital Engagement and Relationships. Recognising the growth of global consultancy, the programme contains the financial, project management and relationship skills needed to perform effectively.
You will critically examine the needs of the global marketplace and the integration of skills, systems and knowledge required to enable organisations to operate efficiently and effectively in dynamic commercial environments.
- MSc
-
International Human Resource Management
Qualification Duration Learning Mode Study Mode Start Month LocationMSc 12 months On Campus Learning Full Time September Aberdeen MoreMSc 12 months On Campus Learning Full Time January Aberdeen MoreProgramme Fees
Fee information Fee category Cost EU / International students £27,000 Tuition Fees for 2024/25 Academic Year UK £15,700 Tuition Fees for 2024/25 Academic Year Stage 1
Compulsory Courses
- Getting Started at the University of Aberdeen (PD5506)
-
This course, which is prescribed for all taught postgraduate students, is studied entirely online, is studied entirely online, takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete and can be taken in one sitting, or spread across the first 4 weeks of term.
Topics include University orientation overview, equality & diversity, MySkills, health, safety and cyber security, and academic integrity.
Successful completion of this course will be recorded on your Transcript as ‘Achieved’.
- Human Resource Essentials (BU551Q)
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15 Credit Points
Human Resource (HR) Essentials course serves as the first course in the program to provide students foundational understanding and knowledge of HR, and functions as a sound basis for other courses in the International Human Resources Management Programme. The course is focused on introducing HR theories and the application of theories and ideas into practice. In this course, students engage in a range of theories taught by lecturers as well as interactive exercises such case studies and evaluation of journal articles, through which they can reflect on and critically evaluate different HR theories. In this way students develop cognitive skills by actively and critically reflecting on practice, and practical transferable skills through assignment and in-class activities and exercises.
- Context of Human Resource Management (BU55EM)
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15 Credit Points
This course aims to critically analyse the major organisational and external contexts within which organisations operate across the range of business sectors in which Human Resource professionals work. Course members will evaluate the impact of the business environment and a range of stakeholders on organisation’s choices and strategies.
- Methods for Research in Business Management (BU556C)
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15 Credit Points
This course comprises of three distinct parts:
- Research design
- Qualitative data analyses
- Quantitative data analyses
These parts are designed to provide in-depth understanding of conducting research in social science and humanities in general, and are linked to the requirements of producing a dissertation in Business Management at PGT level, in particular.
- Personnel Economics for Ihr Managers (BU55EQ)
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15 Credit Points
This course introduces the student to key aspects in labour and personnel economics and how these are related to human resource practices. It focuses on how firms seek to incentivise workers to yield efficient outcomes in the labour market.
Stage 2
Compulsory Courses
- Dissertation: Investigating A Business Issue from A Hr Perspective (BU591M)
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60 Credit Points
Key elements of professional competence are strategic awareness, a business orientation and a concern with adding value through human resource (HR) practice. Qualified professionals should be able to research relevant topics and write reports that can persuade key stakeholders in the organisation to change or adopt a particular policy and practice. This module provides the opportunity for learners to demonstrate the ability to diagnose and investigate a live, complex business issue from an HR perspective, to locate the work within the body of contemporary knowledge, to collect and analyse data, to derive supportable conclusions and to make practical and actionable recommendations for change,improvement or enhancement of current practice. The applied nature of the report requires a critical evaluative approach, empirical investigation and analysis and a combination of academic research and business report writing skills. It requires reflection on the implications for professional practice from an ethical, professional and continuous professional development standpoint.
Stage 3
Compulsory Courses
- The Leadership Challenge (BU501H)
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15 Credit Points
This course provides an opportunity to explore and develop an understanding of your own leadership behaviour. Through workshops, group activities and discussions we investigate how personality, past experience, current situations and culture shape the way each of us behave in a leadership role. Using this information as a starting point we then explore how different leadership theories and approaches can be used as frameworks for developing a deeper understanding of leadership behaviour. You will also have an opportunity to try out a range of practical tools and techniques to assist you in the development of your own approach to leadership.
- Managing Change (BU505B)
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15 Credit Points
The concepts of change and innovation have never been more topical, especially given the commercial context of fierce business competition, shorter product life cycles and more demanding customers. Increasingly, long-term commercial success is based on an ability to manage change, to act creatively and to promote innovation; These processes interconnect and overlap and often present major challenges to modern organizations; We address these issues through providing detailed case illustrations ranging from the workplace to the wider business market. Learning is encouraged through interaction, reading, investigation, video and case analysis, and critical discussion.
- Employment Relations: the Domestic and International Context (BU501S)
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15 Credit Points
This course serves as an introduction to the employment relationship. Students will learn the history of the field and how different employment relationships are established in different institutional, legal and national contexts. The focus will be on the interactions of workers and employers and the factors that shape that relationship.
- Learning, Development and Knowledge Management (BU50EN)
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15 Credit Points
Organisational learning is argued to be a critical process affecting the success or otherwise of organisations, for example in achieving competitive advantage. The efficiency and effectiveness of the process influences performance outcomes. Therefore attention needs to be given to examining and improving organisational learning. This is often achieved through mechanisms and techniques associated with knowledge management. Learning and knowledge are intertwined, as the former is a necessary condition for the creation of the latter. There is therefore an established connection between the two concepts. This module will explore that connection to develop a critical understanding of the concepts of knowledge management and of organisational learning and associated theories and the personal and professional skills associated with designing and implementing knowledge management strategies that promote organisational learning. The module explores the implications for professional practice and requires learners to reflect critically on theory and practice from an ethical and professional standpoint and provides opportunities for applied learning and continuous professional development.
MSc 24 months On Campus Learning Part Time September Aberdeen MoreMSc 24 months On Campus Learning Part Time January Aberdeen More
We will endeavour to make all course options available. However, these may be subject to change - see our Student Terms and Conditions page.
Fee Information
Additional Fee Information
- Fees for individual programmes can be viewed in the Programmes section above.
- In exceptional circumstances there may be additional fees associated with specialist courses, for example field trips. Any additional fees for a course can be found in our Catalogue of Courses.
- For more information about tuition fees for this programme, including payment plans and our refund policy, please visit our Tuition Fees page.
Funding Opportunities
The University of Aberdeen provides an Alumni Discount Scheme:
The University of Aberdeen is very pleased to offer a 20% discount on postgraduate tuition fees for all alumni who have graduated with a degree from the University of Aberdeen. More Information can be found here.
Scholarships
Self-funded international students enrolling on Postgraduate Taught (PGT) programmes for January 2025 will receive one of our Aberdeen Global Scholarships, ranging from £3,000 to £8,000, depending on your domicile country. Learn more about these Aberdeen Global Scholarships here.
From September 2025 all eligible self-funded international Postgraduate Masters students will receive an £8,000 scholarship. Learn more about this Aberdeen Global Scholarship here.
To see our full range of scholarships, visit our Funding Database.
How You'll Study
You will learn using a variety of engaging methods designed to increase your appreciation of current theory and practice. You will attend a variety of lectures, seminars and tutorials, and your work will be assessed by a mix of assignments, case studies, projects and exams. By the end of the course, you should be able to demonstrate a clear grasp of the concepts and an ability to link theory to practice.
150 hours are expected to be spent on learning of a module with 15 credit points (24-30 lecture/tutorial hours and the rest for self-learning and assessment hours).
Learning Methods
- Group Projects
- Individual Projects
- Lectures
- Peer Learning
- Research
- Seminars
- Tutorials
Why Study International Human Resource Management?
- This CIPD accredited programme will provide you with an understanding of international human resource management – in a operational, economical, political and social context. It will deliver a learning experience designed to give you the confidence and the skills to add value to employers upon graduating.
- You will be able to critically examine and translate your learning of organisations within a changing global environment using quantitative and qualitative skills.
- You will develop a deep understanding of the key issues, institutions, opportunities and managerial processes that are central to international human resource management
- This MSc covers core areas in HR such as Resourcing and Talent Management, Managing Performance and Digital Engagement and Relationships.
- You’ll develop a thorough understanding of fundamental concepts, principles, theories, practices and legislative frameworks underlying international human resource management.
What Our Students Say
Entry Requirements
Qualifications
The information below is provided as a guide only and does not guarantee entry to the University of Aberdeen.
The information below is provided as a guide only and does not guarantee entry to the University of Aberdeen.
This programme is open to graduates from any discipline and does not require business, human resources or management study to be completed at undergraduate level.
Our minimum entry requirement for this programme is a degree at 2:2 (lower second class) UK Honours level (or a degree from a non-UK institution which is judged by the University to be of equivalent worth).
Please enter your country to view country-specific entry requirements.
English Language Requirements
To study for a Postgraduate Taught degree at the University of Aberdeen it is essential that you can speak, understand, read, and write English fluently. The minimum requirements for this degree are as follows:
IELTS Academic:
OVERALL - 6.5 with: Listening - 5.5; Reading - 6.0; Speaking - 5.5; Writing - 6.0
TOEFL iBT:
OVERALL - 90 with: Listening - 17; Reading - 21; Speaking - 20; Writing - 21
PTE Academic:
OVERALL - 62 with: Listening - 59; Reading - 59; Speaking - 59; Writing - 59
Cambridge English B2 First, C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency:
OVERALL - 176 with: Listening - 162; Reading - 169; Speaking - 162; Writing - 169
Read more about specific English Language requirements here.
Document Requirements
You will be required to supply the following documentation with your application as proof you meet the entry requirements of this degree programme. If you have not yet completed your current programme of study, then you can still apply and you can provide your Degree Certificate at a later date.
- Degree Transcript
- a full transcript showing all the subjects you studied and the marks you have achieved in your degree(s) (original & official English translation)
- Personal Statement
- a detailed personal statement explaining your motivation for this particular programme
Aberdeen Global Scholarship
Eligible self-funded Postgraduate Taught (PGT) students will receive the Aberdeen Global Scholarship. Explore our Global Scholarships, including eligibility details, on our dedicated pages.
January 2025 September 2025Careers
This MSc programme produces graduates who are capable of critically evaluating and applying current research and advanced thinking in international human resource management. You will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to engage within the international HR environment, and will have the potential to enter a wide range of industries around the world as an HR practitioner.
This programme aims to develop knowledgeable practitioners with an appreciation of multi-cultural international practice. The programme will help you to be able to critically measure HR interventions using quantitative/qualitative, scientific and psychological approaches to managing human resources.
Industry Links
Experience three Professional Development Weeks annually, providing you with valuable opportunities to enhance your skills and career prospects. Additionally, participate in our Careers Fair, where you can interact with potential employers, explore diverse career paths, and make connections that can shape your professional journey.
Accreditation
Accredited by CIPD. With more than 160,000 members globally, the CIPD is a growing community that uses research, insights and learning and gives trusted advice and offers independent thought leadership. And it is a leading voice in the call for good work that creates value for everyone.
Many employers value CIPD qualifications. Attaining a CIPD accredited qualification is beneficial for our graduates as it adds credibility to their profile.
As members of the CIPD, students will have access to numerous member resources, career development tools and online communities that will enhance their knowledge of the HR profession.
The Business School is EQUIS accredited, placing it among a select group of globally recognised institutions. Out of over 15,000 business schools worldwide, only around 200 schools across 45 countries have attained this distinction.
This degree holds accreditation from
Our Experts
- Programme Leader
- Shainaz Firfiray, The University of Aberdeen
Information About Staff Changes
You will be taught by a range of experts including professors, lecturers, teaching fellows and postgraduate tutors. However, these may be subject to change - see our Student Terms and Conditions page.
Get in Touch
Contact Details
- Address
-
Business School
University of Aberdeen
MacRobert Building
King Street
Aberdeen
AB24 3FX