Course Description

 The MSc Strategic Human Resource Management at Arden University is designed to prepare business professionals for the evolving and complex world of human resource management. The programme focuses on developing advanced strategic, analytical, and leadership skills required to manage people effectively within diverse and global business environments.

This course is uniquely recognised by three leading international HR professional bodies: the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), and the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). Upon graduation, students gain the Assoc CIPD designation, Foundation Chartered Manager status from the CMI, and alignment with SHRM, HRCI, and the Australian HR Institute (AHRI), providing an exceptional global career advantage.

Through live case studies, applied research, and practical projects, students explore critical HR areas such as people analytics, globalization, employee well-being, and technological innovation. The course equips graduates with the professional and managerial capabilities needed to lead strategic people management initiatives, drive organisational success, and adapt to the demands of tomorrow’s HR industry.

What You Will Learn
This programme enables students to:

  • Develop in-depth knowledge of contemporary and strategic human resource management practices. 
  • Apply people analytics and technological insights to create organisational value. 
  • Critically evaluate leadership approaches within diverse and multicultural environments. 
  • Integrate ethical, sustainable, and data-driven decision-making into strategic HR planning. 
  • Lead and influence organisational change through effective people and talent management. 
  • Undertake independent research on current HRM challenges to enhance professional expertise.

Why study this course?

  • The only UK-based HRM master’s degree recognised by three international HR professional bodies. 
  • Dual accreditation from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and the Chartered Management Institute (CMI). 
  • Aligned with SHRM, AHRI, and HRCI, ensuring global recognition of your qualification. 
  • Taught by experienced academics and HR professionals with extensive industry backgrounds. 
  • Offers flexible study options through blended and online learning modes. 
  • Focuses on practical, real-world applications with no formal exams, enhancing workplace readiness.

Entry requirements

Academic Route

Minimum Age: 18 years

Applicants must provide evidence of their highest academic qualification, which may include:

  • Level 3 Qualifications (A Levels, NVQ Level 3, Diploma, Certificate, or Access to Higher Education Diploma)
  • International Baccalaureate
  • High School Level Qualifications
  • Level 2 Qualifications or equivalent (for example, GCSEs, NVQ Level 2, Diploma, or Certificate)

Work Route

Minimum Age: 21 years

Applicants who do not meet formal academic entry criteria may apply through the Work Route. This route recognises relevant professional experience in the field, or related industries as an alternative pathway into higher education. Some exceptions may apply for applicants with professional experience in other fields. This entry route ensures that motivated and experienced candidates can progress academically and professionally.

English Language Proficiency

If English is not the first language, applicants must complete an approved free English language test that assesses reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. Equivalent qualifications may also be accepted.

Interview

All applicants are required to attend an interview with a member of the admissions team as part of the selection process.

Assessments

You’ll be able to test your skills and knowledge informally before you do assessments that count towards your final mark. You can get feedback on all practice and formal assessments so you can improve in the future. The assessments on the MSc Strategic Human Resource Management are intended to help you apply what you've learned in the classroom to real-world issues in the modern HR workplace. Each assessment has been designed with industry feedback to fit the needs of today's companies, and it will teach both subject knowledge and relevant workplace skills. These are some examples:

  • Case-based problem-solving exercises. 
  • Consultancy reports in response to live client case studies. 
  • Individual and group presentations. 
  • Skills-based and reflective exercises. 
  • Research-based projects. 
  • A final independent research project on a selected HRM topic.

Modules

  • Strategic People Management 
  • Leading, Managing and Developing People 
  • Employee Relations and Engagement

  • People Analytics and Digital HRM 
  • Managing Employee Well-being and Performance 
  • Research Project in Strategic Human Resource Management

Study & Career Progression

Graduates of the MSc Strategic Human Resource Management are equipped to pursue senior roles across multiple industries, including:

  • Human Resource Manager 
  • Human Resource Business Partner 
  • Pay and Reward Specialist 
  • Organisational Development Manager 
  • Director of Human Resources 
  • Chief People Officer 
  • People and Culture Consultant 

This qualification also provides a pathway to advanced professional accreditation and doctoral-level studies such as a DBA or PhD in Human Resource Management or Organisational Leadership.

Student Fee's & Finance

The Tuition Fee of the course may vary depending on the institution you wish to study at, as well as your status in the UK. The course is available for UK/EU & International Students and eligible for Student Loans Company (SLC) funding to help cover the cost of your tuition fees and other expenses.

If you are an UK/EU citizen or living in the UK on an Indefinite stay, apart from the tuition fees, you could also receive support from the government via Student Loans Company to cover some living costs while studying.

  • Tuition fee loans cover the full cost of your course and are paid directly to the course provider.
  • Maintenance Loan pays for day-to-day living expenses like rent, bills, food and books. Unlike the fees loan, it's paid directly to your student bank account once a term and you can spend it on anything you like.
  • Student Finance has to be paid back, however, you only make Student Loan repayments once you've left your course AND are earning enough. Repayments vary with your salary, and stop altogether if your income drops too low.
  • Students can also apply for other types of special support grants, such as childcare grants or Disabled Students' Allowance if eligible.
  • Moreover, almost all universities offer a selection of student bursaries. These are cash gifts you usually don't have to repay.

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