V 9 PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION Postgraduate Certificate in Human Resources Postgraduate Diploma in Human Resource Management Postgraduate Diploma in Human Resource Development MA HRM Full-Time MA HRM Part-Time MSc International HRM FINAL Academic Year 2013/2014 1
Contents V 9 Introduction Part 1: Programme Specification 1-9 Basic Programme information 5-6 10 Educational Aims of the Programme 7 11 Intended Learning Outcomes 8-9 Page 12 Programme Structure and Requirements 10-14 13 Support for Students and their Learning 15 14 Criteria for Admission 16 15 Methods for Evaluation and Enhancing the Quality and Standards of Teaching and learning 17 16 Regulation of Assessment 17 17 Indicators of Quality and Standards 18 18 Additional Information 18 19 List of mandatory and core option modules 19 20 Curriculum Map 20 21 Capabilities (Skills) Map 21 Part 2: Supporting information Relationship to the national Qualifications Framework, Subject Benchmarks and Professional/Statutory Body requirements. Teaching and Learning Strategy Assessment Strategy Programme/Course management Entry Requirements and Selection Procedures Compliance with the University s Academic Regulations and Current Legislation 2
Introduction V 9 For over 30 years Coventry Business School, now the Faculty of BES, has offered the Postgraduate Diploma in Personnel Management (PgDip) to part time students giving them the opportunity to study towards Graduate membership of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development. The qualification and membership is respected and highly sort after by potential and existing HR professionals. In 2001 following the introduction of CIPD s new professional standards the programme at Coventry was redesigned to give students greater flexibility, wider module choice and an opportunity to structure their study with full-time employment. Since the reorganisation Coventry has become one of the largest CIPD approved centres in the UK experiencing significant growth from 2001. Coventry University is an internal assessment centre. This allows exams and assignments to be set locally by the University away from the CIPD national examination and assessment framework, again giving opportunities for flexibility and achieving a competitive edge in the local market. A number of organisations have supported the programme for example: the NHS, local councils, Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, PDSA, Coventry City Council, Lloyds Pharmacy, Warwick University, Coventry City Council, Age UK, NFU Mutual, IKEA, Arcadia Group, Cross Country Trains, Sainsbury s, MoD, Corus, Network Rail, MacDonald s Hotel, Hilton Hotels, Price Water House Coopers, Tussaud s Group, GKN by sending a number of students to the University over the years. In 2003 the programme further expanded to accommodate student demand in the north of Birmingham by establishing collaboration with Birmingham Metropolitan College (BMetC). The College offers students a condensed version of the Coventry programme while still allowing students to gain a Diploma and graduate membership of the CIPD. In 2005 the programme was upgraded to include the CIPD s national Leadership and Management Standards. That year also included the introduction of the MA HRM part-time top-up for the Postgraduate Diploma students and the MA HRM full-time programme. The MA HRM FT was designed to give students the opportunity to combine the Postgraduate Diploma in Personnel Management, gain a minimum of 6-8 weeks of work experience in an HR environment, complete a masters level dissertation and achieve graduate status of CIPD in one year. In 2008 the programmes were all revalidated by CIPD s Quality Assurance Panel and again gained reapproval with no conditions and received a number of commendations from the panel about the high standards and good practice at Coventry University. In 2009 CIPD introduced an updated set of national standards which will involve the introduction of new CIPD approved modules across all validated CIPD national and international centres. CIPD has give notice to Coventry University, who will not be allow to enrol any further student on the old standards after December 1 st 2010. This programme specification outlines how Coventry will incorporate these new standards in 2010 by introducing and updating the following courses: Certificate in Human Resources Diploma in Human Resource Management PT Diploma in Human Resource Development PT MA HRM FT MA HRM PT MSc International HRM The newly designed programmes will draw on the good practice from the current programme while incorporating the new standards and the new Profession Map. The new HR Profession Map sets out what HR practitioners need to know, do and deliver at different stages in their career and takes into consideration if individuals are specialist/generalists working in the UK or internationally. It sets the benchmark for HR excellence both for the individual and the HR function. The HR Profession Map consists of 10 Professional areas, 8 Behaviours and 4 bands/levels. 3
V 9 The programme presents the following opportunities and challenges: A reduction of examinations nationally and the introduction of more continuous assessment modules The opportunity to give students a choice of routes e.g. HRM or HRD The opportunity to be creative about the assessments used on the programmes Larger and fewer modules to complete the qualification The new standards can potentially close the competitive gap with the University s major competitors in this market Allow greater flexibility Present opportunities for Applied Research as CIPD allows centres to use the modules for CPD and will support centres by giving an Award to students who only want to do one module. 4
1 Available Award(s) and Modes of Study Part 1: Programme Specification for Postgraduate Diploma in Human Resource Management Postgraduate Diploma in Human Resource Development MA HRM Full-Time MA HRM Part-time MSc International HRM. Title of Award * Mode of attendance* UCAS Code FHEQ Level* POSTGRADUATE CERTIFICATE IN HR POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA IN HRM POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA IN HRD MA HRM (FULL-TIME) (FALL BACK) POSTGRADUATE CERTIFICATE IN PEOPLE MANAGMENT (60CREDITS) POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA IN PEOPLE MANAGEMENT (120CREDITS) MA HRM (PART-TIME) (FALL BACK) POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA IN PEOPLE MANAGEMENT (120CREDITS) MSc INTERNATIONAL HRM (FALL BACK) POSTGRADUATE CERTIFICATE IN INTERNATIONAL PEOPLE MANAGMENT (60CREDITS) POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA IN INTERNATIONAL PEOPLE MANAGEMENT (120CREDITS) PART-TIME PART-TIME PART-TIME FULL-TIME FULL-TIME FULL-TIME PART-TIME PART-TIME FULL-TIME FULL-TIME FULL-TIME V 9 Click on above link for qualification descriptor 4 4 4 4 4 4. 2 Awarding Institution/Body * Coventry University and The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) The MA (Part-time) and the MSc International HRM are not validated by CIPD but support and complement the CIPD approved programmes 3 Teaching Institution and Location of delivery* 4 Internal Approval/Review Dates Coventry University all programmes above. Birmingham Metropolitan College Postgraduate Certificate in HRM and Postgraduate Diploma in HRM and HRD ONLY. Date of approval*/latest review The old CIPD standards (Postgraduate Diplomas and MA HRM Full-time) were approved by CIPD 03/08 and by Coventry University in 02/01 and 06/05 MA HRM Part-time was approved by Coventry 06/05 5
V 9 MSc International HRM approval 06/10 Date for next review: Coventry University 2016. CIPD 2013 5 Programme Accredited by* POSTGRADUATE CERTIFICATE IN HR CIPD POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA IN HRM CIPD POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA IN HRD CIPD MA HRM (PART-TIME) Not Applicable MA HRM (FULL-TIME) CIPD MSc INTERNATIONAL HRM Not Applicable 6 Accreditation Date and Duration The CIPD old standards were re-approved in 03/08 and the new standards outlined in the documentation will be approved in 06/10 7 QAA Subject Benchmark Statement(s) and/or other external factors * Postgraduate Certificate in HR, the Pg Diplomas in HRM/HRD and the MA HRM Full-time The new HR Profession Map sets out what HR practitioners need to know, do and deliver at all stages in their career, be they specialist or generalists working in the UK or internationally. It sets the benchmark for HR excellence both for the individual and the HR function. The HR Profession Map consists of 10 Professional areas 8 Behaviours and 4 bands/levels. The 10 Professional areas are: Organisation Design Organisation Development Resourcing and Talent Planning Strategy Insights and Solutions Leading and Managing the HR Function Learning and Talent Development Performance and Reward Employee engagement Employee Relations Service Delivery and Information The 8 Behaviours are: Decisive Thinker, Skilled Influencer, Driven to deliver, Collaborative, Personally Credible, Courage to Challenge, Role Model and Curious. The Profession Map coupled with the modules from the Pg Certificate, Pg Diploma and Masters HRM course will provide students with the knowledge, skills and tools to deliver sustained business success in organisations. It will also help to support career transition within the HR profession and assist students develop their careers. Details of the HR Profession Map can be found on the CIPD website www.cipd.co.uk/professionmap MA HRM (Part-time) and MSc International HRM It is important that all HRM courses (not approved by CIPD) observe national HRM standards as they are the result of data collected from industry, practitioners and academics and translated by CIPD to form the content of their courses and expectations of individuals in the profession. The MA HRM (PT) and the MSc 6
8 Date of Programme Specification * 9 Programme Manager/Course Tutor * V 9 International HRM has been designed with reference to the national standards. The MSC first semester modules are identical to the modules used for the MA HRM (CIPD Awarded) course. April 2010.. 7
V 9 10 Educational Aims of the Programme The programmes aim to: Build on the student's work experience by providing him/her with the opportunity to acquire and apply knowledge of the academic disciplines and theoretical background. Provide work experience where there are limited opportunities for students to gain practical HR experience to complement and build on academic theory (MA HRM Full Time) Enable students to develop the skills, knowledge and competence essential for the HR practitioner. Underpin the delivery and assessment of the programmes with the aims of the CIPD s HR Profession Map. Allow students to learn using traditional and non-traditional methods. Give students flexibility to study at a pace that will help to improve the balance between work, home and study (Postgraduate Certificate/Diploma HRM/HRD and MA HRM part-time). Broaden the student s awareness of HR generalist and specialist functions in a UK and international context. Provide students with the environment to explore the relationship of HR to other functions in the organisation and the contribution of HR to achieving corporate objectives. Provide a supportive learning environment. Meet the aims of all the CIPD national standards outlined in the modules that make up the programmes Provide the opportunity for students to undertake independent study in the form of a live, complex business issue and produce supportable conclusions to make practical and actionable recommendations for change, improvement or enhancement of current practice. 11 Intended Learning Outcomes* Teaching and Learning Intended Module Learning Outcomes each module descriptor outlines the national CIPD learning outcomes. Support for students in achieving some of the module outcomes are outlined below and in section 13 A range of teaching, learning and assessment strategies are used to meet the national aims of the standards. Modules are designed and delivered to encourage: a student centred approach critical reflection of past and current practices skills development critical evaluation and appreciation of the theoretical frameworks that underpin the subjects covered. This approach adds value to existing knowledge, enhances the student experience and prepares them with the qualities which underpin good people management. Staff on the programme makes use of lectures, case studies, role play/simulation activities. It is mandatory that all students undertake skills development workshops to add value to the teaching and learning on the modules and to further enhance the skills developed in the classroom environment Some modules on the Postgraduate HRM and HRD programmes have been designed to support students who would like to undertake part of their learning away from the University making use of the current Virtual Learning Environment system. In general terms the teaching approach adopted on flexible modules can be described as Flexible Learning. Traditional face-to-face lectures are not used. The modules consist of a mixed mode delivery of face-to-face contact at workshops, directed individual study and group activity. The aim is the facilitation of deep learning achieved through a pedagogy based on constructivist views of knowledge. This approach requires students to engage with ideas and develop skills and capabilities within a scholarly community where knowledge is actively constructed and lifelong learning is encouraged. The Flexible Learning approach refers to those learning situations and contexts, which, through the use of ICT, 8
V 9 allow learners to be connected with other people (for example. learners, tutors, mentors, librarians, teaching assistants, authors etc) and with shared information-rich resources. Flexible Learning also views students as contributing to the development of those learning resources and information sources of various types. The learning approach places dialogue and discussion between all parties to the learning experience at the centre of the process. Student s face-to-face contact time with tutors is limited so that the connectivity provided by CU-Online becomes an essential part of creating a community of practice. In addition, it is important in supporting the objectives of the programme that staff delivering the programme continue to: Evaluate the teaching and learning methods used; Re-appraise the balance required between class activities and directed study Provide sound feedback to students and attempt to involve them in identifying their own learning needs Use directed and supported group work for sharing experience, knowledge and developing interpersonal skills Develop realistic and relevant learning activities Use a variety of assessment methods to allow students the opportunity to demonstrate their own particular capabilities Emphasise the importance of continuous professional development throughout the programme. Section 20 maps the intended learning outcomes as described in the next section to the programmes mandatory and option modules (as listed in section 19) Section 21 shows the capabilities that students will be taught, given the opportunity to practise and will be assessed in. The principal teaching, learning and assessment methods normally used on the programme to achieve these learning outcomes are identified in the next section. 11.1 Knowledge and Understanding* On successful completion of the programme a student should be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of HRM and related subjects outlined in the CIPD national standards for each module and in the HR Profession Map. In addition to this the MSc International HRM will include the following: KU1 Ethical, legal and financial factors and their effects at local, national and international levels upon the strategy, behaviour and management of organisations Teaching and Learning Assessment KU1 Lectures, seminars and individual study Individual and/or group assignment and/or timed constrained activities 11.2 Cognitive (thinking) Skills* On successful completion of the programme a student should be able to Achieve the cognitive skills outlined in the CIPD national standards for each module and in the HR Profession Map. In addition to this the MSc International HRM will include the following: CS1 Exercise sound judgements in the selection of different methods and approaches available to deal with financial, cultural and legal business problems nationally and internationally Teaching and Learning Assessment CS1 Lectures, seminars, individual study, group work and the use of case Individual and/or group 9
studies. assignment and/or timed constrained activities V 9 11.3 Practical Skills* On successful completion of the programme a student should be able to Carry out the practical skills outlined in CIPD national standards for each module and the HR Profession Map The knowledge and understanding are covered by the CIPD national standards outlined for each module and in the HR Profession Map. In addition to this the MSc International HRM will include the following: PS1 Using financial skills to communicate and work effectively to persuade and influence others to make decisions The principal teaching, learning and assessment methods normally used to enable outcomes to be achieved and demonstrated are identified below. PS1 Teaching and Learning Lecturers, seminars, group role play and case studies and presentations Assessment Individual and/or group assignment and/or timed constrained activities Etc 11.4 Transferable Skills * On successful completion of the programme a student should be able to Have the transferable skills outlined in CIPD national standards for each module and the HR Professional Map. In addition to this the MSc International HRM will include the following: TS1 Communicate ideas and arguments effectively in both written and oral form in a financial and international context. Transferable/key skills are generally incorporated within modules (see annex 3) and related to relevant assessments as appropriate. Self-directed learning forms an element of all modules and the necessity to work within tight deadlines is an essential requirement across the curriculum. The ability to communicate orally and in writing will be developed across the range of modules. The wide range of assessment techniques will ensure that students are given every opportunity to demonstrate their skills in these areas. 10
12 Programme Structure and Requirements, Levels, Modules, Credits and Awards Modules within the programme, their status (whether mandatory or options), the levels at which they are studied, their credit value and pre/co requisites are identified in section 19. V 9 POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA IN HRM AND HRD The Postgraduate Certificate in HR and the Postgraduate Diplomas in HRM and HRD The new Postgraduate Diploma in HRM and HRD is designed to give students the opportunity to gain a University Postgraduate Diploma and membership of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development. The Programmes are part-time and students who choose to study the programme normally are in employment and come with industry/hr experience. The Postgraduate Certificate in Human Resources is awarded after the successful completion of 4 modules and students who have successfully completed the Postgraduate Diplomas can progress to the MA HRM part-time. Key features of these part-time qualifications include: the completion of 8 modules to gain the Pg Diploma in HRM or HRD and membership of CIPD Students who achieve any 4 modules (60 credits) selected from core and/or option modules will be awarded the Postgraduate Certificate in Human Resources, students can choose to leave the programme with this award or continue to gain the Postgraduate Diploma in HRM or HRD Students can chose between a HRM or HRD route Students choosing to study the programme at Coventry University will be able to develop a timetable of study to suit their personal circumstances choosing up to 4 modules each year Classes are in the afternoon and evening depending upon demand. All afternoon sessions start at 2pm and evening sessions start at 6pm both lasting for 3 hours. Students being able to choose from 12 option modules Flexible modules are offered as options on the programme (see table below) Students can complete the programme in 2 years or at a slower pace up to five years Students will need to select 8 modules 4 core modules and 4 optional modules For the Pg Diploma in HRM students must choose at least 3 modules from HRM optional group A. Maximum of 1 module is permitted from HRM optional group B. For the Pg Diploma in HRD students must choose at least 3 modules from HRD optional group A. Maximum of 1 module permitted for HRD optional group B The guided learning hours for the programme are 560 hours The programme is divided into two 10 week semesters A number of skills workshops will be built into the programme No modules will be condoned on the programme The Postgraduate Diploma is 120 credits and includes the following modules: Module Code M06HRM M07HRM M08HRM M09HRM M16HRM M17HRM* Module Description Leading, Managing and Developing People Human Resource Management in Context Developing Skills for Business Leadership Investigating a Business Issue from a Human Resources Perspective Organisational Design and Development Resourcing and Talent Management Core (M) Option (O) M 15 M 15 M 15 M 15 Credit value HRM Optional group A or B O 15 A A O 15 A B HRD optional group A or B 11
M18HRM Employment Law O 15 A B M19HRM* Understanding and O 15 B A Implementing Coaching and Mentoring M20HRM Performance O 15 A B Management M21HRM Reward Management O 15 A B M22HRM Managing Employment O 15 A B Relations M23HRM Employee Engagement O 15 A B M24HRM Learning and Talent O 15 B A Development M25HRM* Leadership and O 15 A A Management Development M26HRM Designing, Delivering O 15 B A and Evaluating Learning and Development Provision M27HRM* Knowledge Management and Organisational Learning O 15 B A V 9 Are flexible modules (*) The Postgraduate Certificate in HR and the Postgraduate Diplomas in HRM and HRD at Birmingham Metropolitan College Coventry postgraduate award and CIPD approved HR programmes have run at Birmingham Metropolitan College since 2003. Staff teaching on the programme are employed by the college and approved by Coventry and CIPD to teach on the programmes. All assignments and examinations will continue to be set by Coventry University and University module leaders will continue to receive hours for supporting staff and the programme at Birmingham Metropolitan College. The dissimilarity with the Coventry University programme is that the College will only offer a reduced number of modules, however, the number of modules on offer will still give students the opportunity to gain the Postgraduate Certificate and Diplomas. Staff at Birmingham Metropolitan College work closely with staff at the University to give the students the same teaching and learning experience and this is monitored by an appointed Link Tutor from the HRM department at Coventry. The modules available for students studying at Birmingham Metropolitan College are: Module Code Module Description Core (M) Option (O) Credit value HRM Optional group A or B M06HRM Leading, Managing and M 15 Developing People M07HRM Human Resource M 15 Management in Context M08HRM Developing Skills for M 15 Business Leadership M09HRM Investigating a Business M 15 Issue from a Human Resources Perspective M16HRM Organisational Design O 15 A A and Development M18HRM Employment Law O 15 A B HRD optional group A or B M22HRM Managing Employment O 15 A B Relations M23HRM Employee Engagement O 15 A B M24HRM Learning and Talent O 15 B A 12
M25HRM Development Designing, Delivering and Evaluating Learning and Development Provision O 15 A A V 9 The Masters in Human Resource Management Part-Time This is a 60 M level credit programme providing a progression route for students who have completed the Postgraduate Diploma in HRM or HRD. Students will study M31 HRM (50 credits) and M32HRM (10 credits). Students will be expected to complete as the final assessment a 12,500-15,000 word Dissertation along with 3 additional assessments, which includes a research methods assignment, a research methods proposal and a Viva. Students will be able to attend a number of planned sessions spread across 6 months starting in October or in January of each year. It is expected that sessions will take place over two days normally a Friday and Saturday and would last the whole day (9am 4pm). The programme would normally be undertaken by students who are currently working in industry and have the opportunity to undertake an independent study relating to their place of work. The Masters in Human Resource Management Full-Time This is a 180 M level programme which is studied full-time by students who have completed a BA Degree from a recognised University in a Business/Management related area. The original programme has been popular with International students who will have the opportunity to combine work experience in an HR environment and study towards gaining a University Masters and membership of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development. Key features of the course include: Study at the University for 1 year The work placement is a mandatory element of this course for those students wanting a CIPD award. Students must pass ALL semester one and two modules in order to be eligible to go out on placement. Students results will be confirmed at the next available Programme Assessment Board and only those students eligible will be allowed to proceed to the placement. If students fail to pass 120 M level credits by the end of semester two they will not be able to gain the CIPD award but may be awarded the university qualification of MA in People Management. Students studying 8 modules (120 credits) and completing a Dissertation (60 credits) Students can choose three option modules Student will study a mandatory work placement module Dissertation supervisors will support students on workplace not only through supervising projects but will also carry out a visit to the work place Modules will normally be delivered over 4/5 days per week and morning sessions will start at 10am and afternoon sessions at 2pm Students who fail to achieve the 180 for the Masters can be awarded the Postgraduate Diploma in People Management if they achieve 120 credits and a Postgraduate Certificate in People Management if they achieve 60 credits. No modules will be condoned on the programme The programme is divided into two 10 weeks semesters starting October and February and modules included are: 13
V 9 Module Code Module Description Core (C) Option (O) Credit value M06HRM Leading, Managing and M 15 Developing People M07HRM Human Resource M 15 Management in Context M08HRM Developing Skills for M 15 Business Leadership M16HRM Organisation Design M 15 and Development M28HRM Preparing for Work in M 15 People Management M32HRM Research Methods M 10 M31HRM Masters Dissertation M 50 M21HRM Reward Management O 15 M23HRM Employee Engagement O 15 M18HRM Employment Law O 15 M12HRM International HRM O 15 M24HRM Learning and Talent Development O 15 The MSc in International HRM This is a 180 M level programme which is studied full-time by students who have completed a BA Degree from a recognised University in a Business/Management related area. The programme will share the first semester modules with the MA HRM full-time which will include M06, M07, M08HRM and M16HRM. However the work placement is not a part of this programme and students will not gain membership of CIPD on successful completion of the programme. Students on this programme will need to make a link in their Dissertation to HRM, technology and finance. The programme however, will combine HR modules with modules including finance, international law and culture. Key features of the course includes: Study at the University for 1 year Students studying 8 modules (120 credits) and completing a Dissertation (60 credits) Students can choose one option module Students who fail to achieve the 180 for the Masters can be awarded the Postgraduate Diploma in International People Management if they achieve 120 credits and a Postgraduate Certificate in International People Management if they achieve 60 credits. Modules will normally be delivered over 4/5 days per week and morning sessions will start at 10am and afternoon sessions will start at 2pm. No modules will be condoned on the programme The programme is divided into two 10 weeks semesters starting October and February and modules included are: Module Code Module Description Core (C) Option (O) Credit value M06HRM Leading, Managing and M 15 Developing People M07HRM Human Resource M 15 14
Management in Context M08HRM Developing Skills for M 15 Business Leadership M15EFA Corporate Financial M 15 Strategy M16HRM Organisation Design M 15 and Development M13HRM Comparative Law in a O 15 Global Context M12HRM International HRM M 15 M32HRM Research Methods M 10 M31HRM Masters Dissertation M 50 M21HRM Reward Management O 15 M47HRM Managing Diversity and Equal Opportunities O 15 V 9 15
V 9 13 Support for Students and their Learning The module tutors provide academic support. All module tutors include in their module information office surgery hours when they will be available for providing help and guidance to students. For students on part-time programmes tutors will make themselves available outside of normal working hours and will make use of a number of electronic communication systems to support students. Module tutors discuss and monitor student performance through Programme Team Meetings. Students identified as having problems are contacted and invited in to discuss the matter with the Programme Manager. If the Programme Manager is unable to resolve the problem the students are directed to the range of additional support available at the university depending on the problem. Reasonable adjustment can be made to the teaching, learning and assessment and support of the courses to maximise accessibility to students with disabilities Standard University policy on organising Course Consultative Meetings and Boards of Study will be also used across the programmes to gauge feedback from students and offer support. Postgraduate Certificate and Diplomas Once students aiming to study the Postgraduate Certificate and Diplomas are offered a place they are invited to two induction sessions. One would normally be planned during the evening starting at 5pm and the other on a Saturday before the start of the programme. The sessions usually include: Background to the course and meeting with staff Details about local and national CIPD centres Details about set books Details about the University Administration progress e.g. forms/documents that all students should familiarise themselves with A tour of classrooms allocated for the programmes and the general location of other buildings that they might need to visit A tour of the Library and its facilities Details of on-line enrolment with CIPD Details about the Centre for Academic Writing Details about maths and language support for students who might encounter difficulties in these. All new students aiming to study the Postgraduate Certificate and Diplomas will also be invited to attend a full Saturday before the start of the programme (new students joining the programme at Sutton Coldfield are also invited to attend) where the following will take place: Sessions on the type of study to expect at postgraduate level An introduction to writing assignments An introduction to Moodle The opportunity to register with CIPD on-line How to plan and cope with studying part-time Databases and using search facilities in the library Students will also be given a copy of the University Postgraduate Student Handbook and the Postgraduate Diploma in HRM and HRD Course Handbook. Additional details on the support for students who undertake Flexible Modules can be found in section 11 MA HRM full-time and MSc International HRM full-time In addition to having an induction timetable with standard topics for all full-time postgraduate students, they will also have the same information, outlined above for the part-time students over a week long induction period. MA HRM part-time students Students are invited in for a full day induction programme. The content would not be too dissimilar to the Postgraduate Certificate and Diplomas induction but would include additional information on studying a Masters Degree and some of the difficulties individuals might encounter in undertaking a research project and the importance of getting access and support from employers. 16
V 9 Skills Development Workshops Students on the Postgraduate Certificate, Diplomas and MA HRM full-time will have, in addition to their modules, skills development workshops. These sessions develop skills required to equip students for working in the areas of HR and will use: simulation exercises, team building and motivational activities, case studies, and working with specialist guest speakers on a range of problems to develop the competences identified in the CIPD Profession Map. Skills Workshops can be organised by module and students will be required to do two workshops: one when they study Leading Managing and Developing People and the other when they do Investigating a Business Issue from a HR Perspective.. Work Experience Preparation (MA Full-time Programme only) Through the module Preparing for Work in People Management students will be given support from the Business Partnership Coordinator (BPC) in preparing them for work in an HR department for a minimum of 6-8 weeks. The BPC will work with the students and gain support from a number of organisations willing to support a student in gaining valuable work experience and to carry out a project suitable for an MA dissertation. Students will not be able to go out on work placement, and therefore will not be eligible for the CIPD award, if they have not successfully passed 120 credits at M level by the end of semester two. Results will be confirmed at the next available Programme Assessment Board. Students in this situation may be awarded the MA in People Management from the university. Reasonable adjustments can be made to the teaching, learning, assessment and support of the course(s) to maximise accessibility to students with disabilities. 14 Criteria for Admission Postgraduate Certificate and Diplomas and MA HRM and MSc International HRM full-time criteria for admission: A Degree from a recognised University/HE institution Postgraduate establishment (minimum of 2:2) or A PASS (or higher) for any of the CIPD Foundation Programmes, e.g. Certificate in Personnel Practice (CPP), Training Practice (CTP) prior to the introduction of the 2009/10 CIPD standards or A Pass at a CIPD Intermediate qualifications post 2009/10 standards For International students, language proficiency should be at least 6.5 IELTS MA HRM Part-time admission: A postgraduate qualification leading to Graduate Membership of CIPD or A Postgraduate Diploma in HRM or HRD 17
15 Method for Evaluating and Enhancing the Quality and Standards of Teaching and Learning The Programme is managed by the HRM Board of Study of the Faculty/School of Business Environment and Society. The Programme Assessment Board (PAB) for HRM is responsible for considering the progress of all students and making awards in accordance with both the University and course-specific regulations. The assurance of the quality of modules is the responsibility of the Boards of Study which contribute modules to the programme. External Examiners report annually on the programme and their views are considered as part of the annual quality monitoring process (AQM). Details of the AQM process can be found on the Registry s web site. Students are represented on the Course Consultative Committee, Board of Study and Faculty/School Board, all of which normally meet two or three times per year. Student views are also sought through module and course evaluation questionnaires. One appointed External Examiner will also be appointed by CIPD on the recommendation of the HRM Programme Team. This External Examiner will be expected to send annual reports to the professional body on the quality of the provision and support of teaching learning and assessment. An annual report for CIPD is produced annually from the HRM department at the University. CIPD will undertake a Quality Assurance Inspection of the provision every 5 years. V 9 16 Regulation of Assessment University policy requires the internal moderation of all assessments. External Examiners are appointed for all named University awards. The role of the External Examiner at module level is to ensure that academic standards are in line with national norms for the subject. External Examiners undertake the moderation of examination papers and assessment tasks, and view representative samples of work for the modules for which they have responsibility. At programme level, External Examiners help to ensure fairness in the consideration of student progression and awards. They have the right to comment on all aspects of the assessment system and participate as full members of the assessment boards. The Pass mark for all modules is 40%. This overall module mark may comprise more than one component (e.g. coursework and exam). The individual module descriptors give the precise pass criteria and the weighting of the component marks that contribute to the overall module mark. Awards for Taught Master programmes may be made with Distinction or Merit (i.e. achievement of an average mark of at least 70% or 60% respectively). 18
V 9 17 Indicators of Quality and Standards The following are key indicators of quality and standards: (e.g. The programme has been designed in accordance with the QAA benchmark statements for Master s degrees in business and management (2007) The CIPD programmes were reapproved by CIPD in 2003 and in 2008 with no conditions The HRM department has a growing research portfolio in a number of HRM and HRD areas All teaching members of staff have teaching responsibilities and relevant qualifications The CIPD local Coventry and Warwickshire Branch work with the University to organisation local events for employers and HR professionals Representatives from local organisations contribute to the development of the programme through supporting workshops, being guest speakers and supporting and commenting on the development of the programmes RAE ratings and or Research Centre/Units within the subject area. The report of QAA s Institutional Audit undertaken in November 2008 confirmed that Confidence can be placed in the soundness of the institution s current and likely future management of the academic standards of its awards Confidence can be placed in the soundness of the institution s current and likely future management of the quality of the learning opportunities. 18 Additional Information Key sources of information about the course and student support can be found in Programme Specification Course websites Postgraduate Student Handbook Course Handbooks Course Consultative Committee details CIPD National website Module Guides Teaching Plan and Module Resource Document Module Information Directory (http://mid.coventry.ac.uk/) Study Support information is accessible from student services home page Please note: This specification provides a concise summary of the main features of the programme and the learning outcomes that a typical student might reasonably be expected to achieve and demonstrate if s/he takes full advantage of the learning opportunities that are provided. More detailed information on the learning outcomes, content, and teaching, learning and assessment methods of each module can be found in the Module Information Directory (MID), student module guide(s) and the course handbook. The accuracy of the information contained in this document is reviewed by the University and may be verified by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education. 19
Pg Dip HRM Pg Dip HRD Pg Dip Sutton MA HRM PT Top Up MSc IHRM V 9 19 Mandatory and Option Modules Module code Module title Credit value Pre/Co requisite MAHRM FT M06HRM Leading, Managing and Developing People 15 None M M M M M M07HRM Human Resource Management in Context 15 None M M M M M M08HRM Developing Skills for Business Leadership 15 None M M M M M M09HRM Investigating a Business Issue from a Human Resources Perspective 15 None M M M M16HRM Organisational Design and Development 15 None O O O M M M17HRM Resourcing and Talent Management 15 None O O M18HRM Employment Law 15 None O O O O M19HRM Understanding and implementing Coaching and Mentoring 15 None O O M20HRM Performance Management 15 None O O M21HRM Reward Management 15 None O O 0 O M22HRM Managing Employment Relations 15 None O O O M23HRM Employee Engagement 15 None O O O 0 M24HRM Learning and Talent Development 15 None O O O O M25HRM Leadership and Management Development 15 None O O M26HRM M27HRM Designing, Delivering and Evaluating Learning and Development Provision Knowledge Management and Organisational Learning 15 None O O O 15 None O O M15EFA Corporate Financial Strategy 15 None M M06CLS International Business Law 15 None M M12 HRM International HRM 15 None 0 M M47HRM Managing Diversity and Equal opportunities 15 None O M31HRM Dissertation 50 None M M M M32HRM Research Methods 10 None M M M M28HRM Preparing for Work in People Management 15 None M Key M = Mandatory (i.e. must be studied and passed for the named award) O = Option 20
20 Curriculum Map Intended Learning Outcomes Knowledge and Understanding Cognitive (Thinking) Skills Practical Skills Transferable Skills Module codes KU1 KU2 KU3 etc etc CS1 CS2 CS3 etc etc PS1 PS2 PS3 etc etc TS1 TS2 TS3 etc etc M15EFA M10SOL M06CLS M31HRM M32HRM 21 Capabilities (Skills) Map Please see the CIPD Profession Map Bands below Module codes Learning to Learn Working with others Problem Solving and Innovation Numeracy IT and Online Learning Communication Career Management Information Management Personal Development Planning 21
Key: T=Taught, P=Practiced, A=Assessed The Code of Practice for Academic and Professional Skills Development requires that each of the capabilities be demonstrated at least once during the programme. Capability Outlines (from the Code of Practice for Academic and Skills Development) Learning to Learn Students should be ready to accept responsibility for their own independent learning. They should also be able to reflect on their learning and appraise their capabilities and achievements. Students should also be able to identify their individual needs for effective learning. Working with Others Students should be able to work effectively as part of a group, and respect the dignity, rights and needs of others. Problem Solving and Innovation Students should be able to use problem-solving skills in a variety of practical situations. They should be able to demonstrate creativity, flexibility, perception, decisiveness, confidence and an awareness of values. Numeracy Students should be able to interpret, analyse and present numerical data. IT and Online Learning Students should be able to use computer-based systems for learning, communicating, collaborating with peers and tutors, and working with data. Communication Students should be able to communicate effectively in appropriate forms in a wide variety of situations. Career Management Students should appreciate the values, culture, structure and process of work organisations relevant to their area of study. Students should also appropriately match their experience and academic achievements to employer expectations. Information Management Students should be able to carry out research relevant to their field of study by retrieving and using information drawn from a variety of resources. Personal Development Planning Students should be able to demonstrate self-awareness, set personal goals and record achievement. Capabilities developed through the Add+vantage Scheme In all full-time UK based undergraduate courses (with the exception of those that lead to a licence to practice), students will undertake at least one 10 credit Add+vantage module in each of the three years of their course. Theses Add+vantage modules will develop the following generic capabilities: Problem Solving Skills Action Planning and Organising Written and Oral Communication Questioning and Listening Employability competencies and career management skills will be introduced in each Add+vantage module. The following personal qualities related to employability will be addressed in each of the Add+vantage modules: Achievement orientation Initiative (Creativity) Self Confidence Decisiveness Reflectiveness Adaptability/Flexibility Influencing Career Management Skills 22
The Capabilities Skills Map HRM Profession Map Please see below the details of the bands of professional competence from CIPD. For each band there are 10 professional areas and 8 behaviours. Four bands of professional competence and the contribution made at each Relationship with client Focus of activity Band 1 Band 2 Band 3 Band 4 Support, service and information Adviser, issues-led Consultant, co-operative partner Leadership colleague, client provision confidante and coach Administrative, client support and processing activity Immediate and ongoing Advising and managing individual or team-based human resources issues and problems Current or near term Leading the professional area Addressing the human resources challenges at the organisational level Medium and longer term Leading the function or professional area Leading the organisation Developing the organisational strategy Developing the human resources strategy Partnering with the client Where time is spent Service to the client Providing information, managing data, process delivery Facts and information Administration Process support Peace of mind Understanding the issues and parameters, issue analysis, evaluation, solutions and likely consequences Issues handled Flexible options and recommendations Understanding the functional and business realities, providing insights and linkages, flexible and innovative solutions, risk analyses Ideas, insights and challenge Solutions Understanding the organisational and industry realities and the client s needs, developing strategies and plans Safe haven for challenging discussions around the hard issues, surfacing and reflecting the truth Measures Execution excellence, efficiency, accuracy, flexibility and silent running Client satisfaction Issues and problems satisfactorily resolved Repeat business Trusted partner Seat at the leadership table Lead team colleague Sought by client as development and performance coach Relative skill balance Behaviours : technical 30:70 50:50 60:40 80:20 23
. Part 2: Supporting Information for Postgraduate Certificate in Human Resources Postgraduate Diploma in Human Resource Management Postgraduate Diploma in Human Resource Development MA HRM Full-Time MA HRM Part-Time MSc International HRM 1 Relationship to the National Qualifications Framework, Subject Benchmarks and Professional/Statutory Body requirements The CIPD approved programmes will incorporate the CIPD HR Profession Map which is a comprehensive view of how HR adds the greatest sustained value to the organizations it operates in, now and in the future. It combines the highest standards of professional competence with the closest alignment to organizational goals, to deliver sustained performance. It captures what HR people do and deliver across every aspect and specialism of the profession and it looks at the underpinning skills, behaviour and knowledge that they need to be most successful. It also creates a clear and flexible framework for career progression, recognizing that both HR roles and career progression vary. The profession Map also creates a coherent progression route that reflects learners needs. Please see table above. 2 Teaching and Learning Strategy The new CIPD qualifications are designed to incorporate the needs of specialists and generalists, to increase business content and links with HR and to include a more flexible assessment strategy. The reduction of examinations have been a key agenda for CIPD and new programmes are encouraged to develop a range of creative assignments that will identify the skill gaps of individual students and use the Profession Map to help them achieve their professional goals. The workshops will be used to add to skills development and will use the Profession Map to identify and develop behaviours at the different bands outlined by CIPD. 3 Assessment Strategy While all assignments will require students to critically review relevant academic literature they will also be encouraged to apply a practitioner focus to all assessed pieces of work. The Profession Map will be used to support the development of assessments. 4 Programme/Course Management The Programme Management structure will be as follows: Two Programme Managers supporting the full-time programmes MA HRM and MSc International HRM Two Programme Managers supporting the part-time programmes Pg Certificate and Diploma in HRM and HRD and the MA HRM. This programme management team will also act as Link Tutor for Birmingham Metropolitan College. 5 Entry Requirements and Selection Procedures The Programme Managers will make use of the recommended CIPD transition document to move student who have studied the pre 2010 standards to the new standards. CIPD guidance on APL will be used to assess the levels of entry to the qualifications. 6 Compliance with the University s Academic Regulations and current legislation The programmes outlined above comply with the current University Academic Regulations. 24