MSc International Human Resource Management Programme Specification Primary Purpose Course management and quality assurance. Secondary Purpose Detailed information for students, staff and employers. Current students should refer to the related Course Handbook for further detail. Disclaimer The University of Portsmouth has checked the information given in this Programme Specification. We will endeavour to deliver the course in keeping with this Programme Specification; however, changes may sometimes be required arising from annual monitoring, student feedback, review and update of units and courses. Where this activity leads to significant changes to units and courses, there will be prior consultation of students and others, wherever possible, and the University will take all reasonable steps to minimize disruption to students. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a unit or course for reasons outside of its control, for example; the absence of a member of staff or low student registration numbers. Where this is the case, the University will endeavour to inform applicants and students as soon as possible. Where appropriate, the University will facilitate the transfer of affected students to another suitable course. Copyright The contents of this document are the copyright of the University of Portsmouth and all rights are reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior consent of the University of Portsmouth.
Contents Course Details...1 1. Named Awards...1 2. Course Code (and UCAS Code if applicable)...1 3. Awarding Body...1 4. Teaching Institution...1 5. Accrediting Body...1 6. QAA Benchmark Groups...1 7. Document Control Information...1 8. Effective Session...1 9. Author...1 10. Faculty...1 11. Department...1 Curriculum...1 12. Educational Aims...1 13. Reference Points...2 14. General Learning Outcomes...2 15. Learning Outcomes...3 A. Knowledge and Understanding of:... 3 B. Cognitive (Intellectual or Thinking) Skills, able to:... 3 C. Practical (Professional or Subject) Skills, able to:... 3 D. Transferable (Graduate and Employability) Skills, able to:... 3 16. Learning and Teaching Strategies and Methods...3 17. Assessment Strategy...4 18. Course Structure, Progression and Award Requirements...4 19. Employability Statement...5 Course Management...5 20. Support for Student Learning...5 21. Admissions Criteria...5 A. Academic Admissions Criteria... 5 B. Disability... 6 22. Evaluation and Enhancement of Standards and Quality in Learning and Teaching...6 A. Mechanisms for Review and Evaluation... 6 B. Responsibilities for Monitoring and Evaluation... 6 C. Mechanisms for Gaining Student Feedback... 6 D. Staff Development Priorities... 6 23. Assessment Regulations...7 24. Role of Externals...7 25. Indicators of Standards and Quality...8 A. Professional Accreditation/Recognition... 8 B. Periodic Programme Review (or equivalent)... 8 C. Quality Assurance Agency... 8 D. Others... 8 26. Further Information...8 i
Course Details 1. Named Awards MSc International Human Resource Management 2. Course Code (and UCAS Code if applicable) C1692 3. Awarding Body University of Portsmouth 4. Teaching Institution University of Portsmouth 5. Accrediting Body Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (re-accredited 2013) 6. QAA Benchmark Groups Postgraduate Human Resource Management, CIPD. Benchmarks for Masters degrees in Business and Management 7. Document Control Information September 2017 8. Effective Session 2017/18 9. Author Sally Rumbles 10. Faculty Faculty of Business and Law 11. Department OSHRM Curriculum 12. Educational Aims The Educational Programme: The MSc International HRM Programme To enable course members to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence so that they can take effective managerial responsibility in a broad (or generalist ) sense. To contribute significantly to the development of human resource strategy and practices in organisations that operate, or wish to operate in the international arena. Programme Specification for MSc International Human Resource Management Page 1 of 8
13. Reference Points The following references have been consulted in the development of the course and demonstrate that the course has currency and relevancy within the academic, professional and employer communities: University of Portsmouth Curriculum Framework document 2012 Code of Practice for the Assessment of Students The research and scholarship of staff The Benchmarks for Masters degrees in Business and Management Type 1B specialist career development with a professional orientation. The course places the HR subject within a wider organisation and contextual framework, engages with both theoretical and applied perspectives and enables the students to apply a range of specialist and professional skills to the workplace. The CIPD Profession Map 2010 The National Qualification Framework QAA Quality Code The regional and international HR professional communities 14. General Learning Outcomes Level 7 Master's degrees are awarded to students who have demonstrated: a systematic understanding of knowledge, and a critical awareness of current problems and/or new insights, much of which is at, or informed by, the forefront of their academic discipline, field of study or area of professional practice a comprehensive understanding of techniques applicable to their own research or advanced scholarship originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how established techniques of research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in the discipline conceptual understanding that enables the student: to evaluate critically current research and advanced scholarship in the discipline to evaluate methodologies and develop critiques of them and, where appropriate, to propose new hypotheses Typically, holders of the qualification will be able to: deal with complex issues both systematically and creatively, make sound judgements in the absence of complete data, and communicate their conclusions clearly to specialist and nonspecialist audiences demonstrate self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, and act autonomously in planning and implementing tasks at a professional or equivalent level continue to advance their knowledge and understanding, and to develop new skills to a high level And holders will have: the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring: the exercise of initiative and personal responsibility decision-making in complex and unpredictable situations the independent learning ability required for continuing professional development Programme Specification for MSc International Human Resource Management Page 2 of 8
15. Learning Outcomes A. Knowledge and Understanding of: A.1 An in-depth and systematic knowledge and understanding of the specialist and applied areas of HR A.2 An awareness of ethical and professional dilemmas, conflicts and ambiguities A.3 A comprehensive understanding of how relevant techniques can be applied in the workplace A.4 Concepts, theories and techniques relating to HR A.5 A conceptual understanding that enables the student to critically reflect upon and evaluate current research, relevant scholarship and professional practice B. Cognitive (Intellectual or Thinking) Skills, able to: B.1 synthesise, analyse and interpret information from a variety of sources, including the integration of theory and practice; B.2 analyse and diagnose complex and uncertain situations; B.3 solve problems taking a holistic approach and demonstrating independence of thought in the development of creative solutions which reflect originality in the application of knowledge; B.4 distinguish between short-term resolution of problems and the longer-term international strategic view; B.5 formulate and test hypotheses. C. Practical (Professional or Subject) Skills, able to: C.1 retrieve, sift and select appropriate information from diverse international sources; C.2 apply appropriate qualitative and quantitative techniques to analyse information and evaluate research; C.3 undertake effective decision-making in complex and uncertain situations; C.4 implement decisions through the selection and use of appropriate interpersonal skills, taking into account cultural diversity; C.5 plan, conduct and report a programme of original research into international human resource management issue(s). D. Transferable (Graduate and Employability) Skills, able to: D.1 structure and communicate complex ideas effectively; D.2 use information technology to collect and analyse information; D.3 apply appropriate numerical skills; D.4 identify and provide credible solutions to complex problems; D.5 work independently demonstrating self-direction; D.6 work with others from different cultural backgrounds. 16. Learning and Teaching Strategies and Methods Lectures will provide the fundamental knowledge and understanding as well as encourage critical engagement with the literature (A.1-A.4). The embedding of the knowledge and its applications (A.5) will be via group work based on academic exercises, problem-solving exercises, case studies and visits by practitioners. In the groups, course members will be encouraged to reflect on their learning and apply the knowledge to uncertain situations. Lectures will be the starting point for the development of all the listed cognitive skills via explanation and review. Seminars and workshops will utilise small group work in order to promote these skills. A Programme Specification for MSc International Human Resource Management Page 3 of 8
variety of activities, including exercises and case studies, will be provided for members to enhance their skills via the facilitating role of the lecturers, the interaction with peers and, on occasion, practitioners. Feedback, both informally and formally (including for coursework), will seek to encourage the development of all the cognitive skills listed, especially independence of thought and creativity (B.3). Induction will include initial guidance on the use of library and other (electronic) sources of information (C.1). This, together with skill C.2, will be developed in the management and the Research Project units of study. The role play nature of the small group work will provide opportunities for the development of skills C.1 to C.4. Whilst lectures will establish the frameworks and guidance, the group work will require members to make decisions (C.3), demonstrate how these decisions are translated into a plan and how the plan is to be implemented (C.4). Specific attention will be given to skills C.5 in the research methods element of the Research Project unit and during the supervision of the Research Project. Feedback, both informally and formally (including for coursework) will encourage the development of all the skills listed. Transferable and key skills will be embedded in activities in the programme content and assessment. Beginning with the induction and its emphasis on appropriate study skills, course members will be encouraged to monitor their learning (D.5). Skills D.2 and D.3 will be developed in Management Decision Making and the Research Project units of study. The small group work (drawing on different cultural backgrounds of course members) and the different methods of assessment will seek to promote all the transferable and key skills listed (D.1 to D.6), including various forms of communication (D.1). Feedback, both informally and formally (including for coursework), will encourage the development of all the skills listed (D.1-D.6). 17. Assessment Strategy Seen and unseen written examinations and coursework assignments will be used to assess knowledge and understanding (A.1-A.5). Coursework assignments and the Research Project will be directed to the integration of theory and practice in the application of knowledge to different types of organisations and contexts (A.5) based on case studies and course members research. Seen and unseen written examinations will assess the cognitive skills B.1 to B.5. However, the emphasis of the assessment will be on coursework assignments and the Research Project which provide greater scope for course members to demonstrate their cognitive skills (B5 and C5 are specific to the dissertation. Skills C.1 and C.2 will be partly assessed by seen and unseen written examinations. Skills C.1 to C.4 will be assessed by coursework assignments. Skill C.5 will be assessed by coursework assignments and the final report of the Research Project unit. Unseen and seen written examinations, coursework assignments and the Research project will assess all the skills listed (D.1-D.6). Employability skills are addressed across the range of units. 18. Course Structure, Progression and Award Requirements See Unit Web Search 1 for full details on the course structure and units Structure The programme will be offered in one-year, full-time mode. Taught units of study comprise the first two semesters: four compulsory units (30 credit points each), four being delivered over the taught academic year and the fifth being the research project being over the whole academic year. The Research Project attracts 60 credit points will commence in the first semester with a series of research methods introductory workshops component. The second semester workshops offer students the opportunity to develop their critical and practical skills to a greater depth. The main body of research will be undertaken after the end of the second semester and completed within five months. 1 www.port.ac.uk/unitwebsearch Programme Specification for MSc International Human Resource Management Page 4 of 8
Awards will be accordance with University regulations: MSc International HRM will require the accumulation of 180 credit points; 120 credit points will be required for the exit award of Postgraduate Diploma and 60 credit points for the exit award of Postgraduate Certificate. Comments MSc International Human Resource Management = 180 credits Note: PGDip and PGCert are exit awards only 19. Employability Statement The MSc is a professionally accredited course that is linked directly to the learning outcomes required by the professional accrediting body the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development. Students develop the skills and knowledge required to perform as thinking practitioners. Students are helped to develop effective Continuous Professional Development Plans and update their C.V. to assist future job searching. Students are encouraged to seek higher level CIPD membership as soon as their professional experience allows. All students have access to University support services including careers advice. On-line support materials via Purple Door are accessible to all students regardless of location. Successful MSc IHRM graduates are invited to attend induction events to discuss their experiences post-qualification and provide inspiration for new students. Course Management 20. Support for Student Learning The course is managed by a Course Leader and overseen by the Course Director. Extensive induction programme introduces the course member to the University and their course. The Course leader serves as a personal tutor for all students and is responsible for pastoral support and guidance. At the dissertation stage the dissertation supervisor take over the personal tutor role. The Course Leader is still available should an individual student s needs dictate. Study skills support is available through the ASK unit and PBS Student Learning Tutors University support services include - careers, financial advice, housing, counselling, International Student Advisers, etc. Access to the Student Centre incorporating Students Union and Student Services. Extensive library facilities with off- campus access to full text bibliographic databases. Student handbooks provide information about the course structure, teaching and learning strategies, assessment requirements and academic regulations. Key Skills opportunities are incorporated into all units. Formative learning opportunities and feedback are provided in each unit, including for the MSc proposal. Written feedback is provided for all coursework summative assessments. Students may request to see examination scripts. Access to a course specific web-site via the University VLE Moodle. Individual unit pages on Moodle. 21. Admissions Criteria A. Academic Admissions Criteria An honours degree at a good standard from a British University or its equivalent (minimum standard: 2:2 class honours) Programme Specification for MSc International Human Resource Management Page 5 of 8
or, a professional qualification equivalent to the above; or, where the candidate does not have the above formal qualifications but does have substantial experience of working at a senior level within an organisation and can demonstrate the capability to undertake postgraduate studies. Applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of English language ability with a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 (normally with not less than 6.0 in any one aspect) or TOEFL at 600 (240 computer-based). B. Disability The University makes no distinction in its admissions policy with regard to disability and will endeavour to make all reasonable adjustments in order to make it possible for students to study at Portsmouth on a course of their choice. 22. Evaluation and Enhancement of Standards and Quality in Learning and Teaching A. Mechanisms for Review and Evaluation Unit and Course Level student feedback considered at Board of Studies. Unit Assessment Board consideration of student performance for each programme. Annual Report to Board of Studies, including consideration of Subject and Award External Examiner Reports. Annual Subject Quality Review and Faculty report to Quality Assurance Committee. Annual Staff Appraisal. Peer Teaching Observation. Faculty Learning and Teaching Committee. The Course Leader has primary responsibility for staff/student liaison and reports significant issues raised by the SSCC to the Board of Studies. CIPD accreditation requires periodic and intensive scrutiny involving comprehensive documentation and CIPD Quality Assurance Panel visits The provision of an annual centre report to the CIPD The national CIPD benchmarking of the standards of assessed work B. Responsibilities for Monitoring and Evaluation Unit Co-ordinators for unit content and delivery. Course Leader and Course Managers for day-to-day running of course. Board of Studies with overall responsibilities for operation and content of course. Student Representatives Head of Subject Group, Head of Postgraduate Taught Programmes, Associate Dean (Academic) and Associate Dean (Students) Quality Assurance Committee Unit Assessment Boards and Board of Examiners CIPD QA monitoring mechanisms C. Mechanisms for Gaining Student Feedback Staff Student Consultative Committee. Student Representation on Board of Studies. Student Staff Liaison Committees. Programme Specification for MSc International Human Resource Management Page 6 of 8
Unit and Course level student questionnaires. Student meeting with External Examiner(s). D. Staff Development Priorities Academic staff undertake activities related to research, scholarship, teaching and learning and student support and guidance Annual staff performance and development reviews match development to needs Managers undertake a variety of management development programmes New academic staff are required to undertake the APEX programme (Academic Professional Excellence Framework). Academic staff encouraged to seek Higher Education and Academy Membership Support Staff are encouraged to attend short courses in areas such as minute taking and IT packages. Academic staff engage in professional networking, CPD and attendance at the annual CIPD Professional Standards Conference. The Course Leader is nominated as the CIPD Course Tutor and undertakes regular CIPD updating. 23. Assessment Regulations The current University of Portsmouth academic regulations will apply to this programme (see Assessment and Regulations 2 ). However, exemption from the following rules may apply for elements of the taught units, where the student objective is to apply for CIPD membership upon successful completion of the programme. In this case the exemption relates to the University rules on unit compensation. Assessment and Classification Rules Standard university rules apply, the main points relating to assessment are as follows but the regulations as stated in University handbook must be consulted for a full description: Unit overall pass mark is 40%. Limited repeat assessment is allowed in all or some assessment components, to a student who has failed a unit or units to limits prescribed in the regulations with unit overall marks capped at 40%. Repeat assessment is allowed to students who fail a unit or units after limited repeat assessment and such students must attempt all the assessment components specified in the assessment schedule and is usually expected to attend all class sessions and on passing the unit the unit marks will be capped unless the student chooses to repeat the entire stage. Special provision may be made in approved Extenuating Circumstances cases, usually by allowing the affected assessment to be undertaken again, as if for the first time. Interpretation of Marks in Classification Standard university rules apply, in summary the main points relating to classification are as follows but the regulations as stated in University handbook must be consulted for a full description: The Pass standard is normally 40 percent and above. The Merit standard is 60 69 percent. The Distinction standard is 70 percent and above. 24. Role of Externals Subject External Examiners who will: Oversee unit assessment and usually attend Unit Assessment Boards 2 www.port.ac.uk/departments/services/academicregistry/qualitymanagementdivision/assessmentandregulations/ Programme Specification for MSc International Human Resource Management Page 7 of 8
Review unit assessment strategy Sample assessment artefacts Present report to Unit Assessment Boards Award External Examiners (usually also a Subject External Examiner) who will: Oversee and attend Award/Progression Boards Scrutinise and endorse the outcomes of assessment Ensure that the standard of the award is maintained at a level comparable with that of similar awards elsewhere in the United Kingdom 25. Indicators of Standards and Quality A. Professional Accreditation/Recognition Validation at CIPD Level 7 from July 2013. B. Periodic Programme Review (or equivalent) 2013 C. Quality Assurance Agency QAA Higher Education Review, March 2015, judgements about standards and quality meet UK expectations (for full report see Higher Education Review of the University of Portsmouth, March 2015 3 ). D. Others None. 26. Further Information Further information may be found in: Student Handbook University of Portsmouth Curriculum Framework Document University of Portsmouth Prospectus University of Portsmouth 4 and School/Department 5 websites 3 www.qaa.ac.uk/en/reviewsandreports/documents/university%20of%20portsmouth/university-of-portsmouth-her- 15.pdf 4 www.port.ac.uk/ 5 http://www.port.ac.uk/portsmouth-business-school/ Programme Specification for MSc International Human Resource Management Page 8 of 8