BA (Hons) Human Resource Management Bachelor's degree at Birmingham City University
BA (Hons) Human Resource Management at BCU is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), the professional body for HR practice in the UK.
About this course
Looking for HR courses in Birmingham? Our BA (Hons) Human Resource Management degree allows you to take a year-long sandwich placement in industry. Find out more about our entry requirements and fees. From the provider’s course page.
BA (Hons) Human Resource Management is a Bachelor's degree (BA (Hons)) at BCU, based in City Centre Campus. It is studied part-time; duration varies by route.
For Business and management graduates from this provider, typical earnings around £35,000. (HESA Graduate Outcomes / LEO, via Discover Uni.)
For the typical curriculum, specialisations, career paths and graduate earnings for Business & Management, see the sections below.
Course evidence score
The arithmetic mean of the official measures available for this course: NSS satisfaction, graduate activity and continuation.
Published threshold met NSS publication requires sufficient responses; small differences are not a rank. NSS mean of 7 published themes (Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Curriculum & modules
Real modules published for this course, grouped only where the source gives a year, stage or level.
First Year 6 modules
- Introduction to Human Resource ManagementCore20 credits
Module details
In an increasingly volatile and ever changing employment environment, how an organisation attracts and retains the right calibre of employee has never been more important or visible. Furthermore, how the organisation gets the best performance possible from its team whilst all the time making sure they are not only safe and cared for, but that they feel safe, included and valued is key to any high performing organisation. In this module you will be introduced to the key aspects of the employee -
- Fundamentals of BusinessCore20 credits
Module details
The aim of this module is to enable you to explore the operational activities of a business through its value chain from its suppliers to its customers. It will utilise activities that draw on the themes of problem solving, employability, reflection, and professional development. You will develop an understanding of the theoretical perspectives that underpin the understanding of organisations and management activities. This module seeks to give you an understanding of the reality of organisation
- Introduction to Data Analytics and AICore20 credits
Module details
This module offers an in-depth exploration of Data Analytics and its application in different aspects of business. The module also explores Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its role in contemporary business practices. It is designed to provide you with a practical understanding of the real-life application of data analytics in Business settings. The module brings together the worlds of business and technology and is ideal for those pursuing careers in business related fields, or business analyti
- People and OrganisationsCore20 credits
Module details
The People and Organisation module is designed to introduce you as first-year university students to the fundamental concepts of organisational life and how people behave and interact within organisations. This module centres on four main areas: organisational structure and culture; power, control, and leadership in organisations; communication methods and processes (verbal, non-verbal, and written); and motivation theories and their application in the workplace. Through this module, you will ga
- Finance for ManagersCore20 credits
Module details
This module will provide a gentle introduction to the world of accounting and finance for business managers of the future and is designed for those new to accounting or those studying on non-accounting related degree programmes.
- Entrepreneurial ThinkingCore20 credits
Module details
This module provides a comprehensive exploration of entrepreneurship, equipping you with the skills, perspectives, and theories applicable across industries and professions. It covers both new venture creation and innovation within existing organisations, emphasising entrepreneurial thinking and mindset. You will engage in practice-based learning, exploring entrepreneurship in diverse cultural and geographical contexts. The module delves into key entrepreneurial concepts such as opportunity reco
Second Year 8 modules
- Recruitment and Selection StrategiesCore20 credits
Module details
Getting the right person in the right role at the right time is a key priority for organisations as they look to recruit and select new staff. Recruiting and selecting employees are usually seen together in practice and academia, however they are really separate HRM activities. You will learn the meaning of the two constructs and explore the two processes underlying them and how they inter-relate.
- Performance and Reward ManagementCore20 credits
Module details
This module will provide you with the foundation and understanding of the function of Performance and Reward Management and its role in promoting organisation competitive advantage. In it, you will examine various performance management systems and total reward approaches in an organisational and international context, and, through this examination, you will gain a strong understanding of specific tools and practices. A major focus of the course will be on contemporary theories and practices of
- Adding Value through Human Resource ManagementCore20 credits
Module details
This module looks at the important contribution that an efficient and effective human resource management capability can add to an organisation. The purpose of this module is to introduce you to human resources (HR) activity and to the role of the HR function in organisations in general terms. It focuses on the aims and objectives of HR departments in contemporary organisations and particularly on the ways that these are evolving. Different ways of delivering HR objectives and emerging developme
- Employment Law in ContextCore20 credits
Module details
This module aims to enable you to build a strong understanding of the legal issues that impact on the "people" aspects of the business within the context of the wider employment relationship. Studying this module will provide you with a deep insight into the practical steps employers need to consider when dealing with employment issues in order to minimise the risk of employment tribunal claims.
- Data Analytics and AI in PracticeOptional20 credits
Module details
This module progresses on from the Level 4 module Introduction to Data Analytics and AI. Artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed the business world and personal lives, and 'Big Data' is everywhere. This module will demonstrate how organisations apply analytical tools and techniques by harvesting and leveraging data to gain a competitive edge. Machine Learning (ML) is an analytical technique that delivers practical value for both organisations plus consumers and is embedded within modern pro
- Leadership in Global ContextOptional20 credits
Module details
This module examines the critical role of leadership in the global business context. It explores diverse leadership styles and key attributes for global leaders. The module also delves into prominent cultural models, analysing how cultural factors shape leadership perceptions and behaviours across borders. Additionally, the module provides strategies for navigating the complexities of multinational organisations, leading high-performing global teams, and aligning business objectives with the dyn
- Entrepreneurial FeasibilityOptional20 credits
Module details
In this module, you will develop a deep understanding of the entrepreneurial process, focusing on the evaluation of the feasibility of new business ventures. You will explore how businesses are formed, structured, and strategically developed to achieve long-term sustainability. Through the application of a range of tools, techniques and theories, underpinned by contemporary academic research in business model innovation and market analysis, you will identify and assess potential market gaps, ena
- Introduction to ConsultancyOptional20 credits
Module details
There are many similarities between the roles of managers and management consultants. In fact, managers are often considered to be 'internal consultants', as Butler (2010) comments "An effective manager is increasingly an effective consultant".
Professional Placement 1 modules
- Professional Placement YearOptional120 credits
Module details
This module is designed to provide you with the opportunity to undertake a credit bearing, 40- week Professional Placement as an integral part of your Undergraduate Degree. The purpose of the Professional Placement is to improve your employability skills which will, through the placement experience, allow you to evidence your professional skills, attitudes and behaviours at the point of entry to the postgraduate job market. Furthermore, by completing the Professional Placement, you will be able
Final Year 1 modules
- Employee Retention and EngagementCore20 credits
Module details
This module will to provide you with a broad understanding of how HR professionals work to ensure that once employees are hired they stay in their organisations and do not leave. You will learn that this is a strategic matter for any type of organisation in all sectors and it is closely related with increased performance. Employee turnover and
Source: provider course page. Modules can change; required/optional status, credits, descriptions and assessment are shown only when explicitly published.
Course in depth
What this course covers, who it suits and where it leads.
What you'll study
This degree offers a distinctive year-long sandwich placement in industry, giving you practical experience alongside study. You'll usually start with foundations in management, organisations and business economics, then progress to people-focused modules including organisational behaviour and human resource management. In your second year, you'll develop skills in strategy, operations and supply chain management. Towards the end, you'll choose specialist options such as entrepreneurship, international business, digital business, consulting or marketing, and complete a capstone project or live consultancy brief. The course integrates HR practice with broader business thinking, preparing you for roles managing people and organisational change.
Who it's for
This course suits professionals seeking to develop HR expertise whilst maintaining work commitments, given its part-time structure. Most entrants hold A-levels or equivalent qualifications. You'll benefit from CIPD accreditation, which aligns your studies with industry standards and professional recognition. The course is taught in English.
Careers & job market
Across Business & Management courses nationally, 87% of graduates are in work or further study within 15 months of graduating, and 60% of working graduates are in highly skilled roles or undertaking further study. National graduate earnings data shows starting salaries of £24,000–£32,000 at 15 months post-graduation, rising to £26,350–£37,200 after five years. Check the university's funding pages for information on bursaries and scholarships.
University & format
Birmingham City University is a public university located on its City Centre Campus. The BA (Hons) Human Resource Management is studied part-time and taught in English. It is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), recognised as a UK degree-awarding body. The university holds a Silver award for teaching quality in the Office for Students' TEF 2023.
Student satisfaction
How students on this course answered the National Student Survey, by theme.
Share of students responding positively.
Published threshold met NSS publication requires sufficient responses; small differences are not a rank. NSS mean of 7 published themes (Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Applicant information
The next application dates for this course, followed by facts the provider publishes.
Part-time application dates vary by provider. UCAS dates
Names detected beside accreditation or recognition copy on the provider course page; verify the route and intake.
Professional placement year. Availability, selection and pay can vary.
See and book current events. Dates can fill or change.
Opened 2 July 2026; last choice 19 October 2026. Check vacancies now. A cached page never claims a place is still available.
Entry & how to get in
Who gets in
What recently admitted students actually held, official admissions data, not a stated requirement.
Qualifications held on entry
| Qualification | Share |
|---|---|
| A-levels or equivalent | 80% |
| a previous degree | 10% |
| another higher-education qualification | 10% |
Entry & your chances
An honest read from the official entry data, plus your personal match.
Entry is set by the university and based on your offer. Use your predicted grades to see how you compare, then check the university's stated requirements.
How to apply
Undergraduate applications go through UCAS. Here’s what matters for this course, the right deadline, the grades to aim for, and the steps in order.
- 1Register on UCAS Hub
Create your UCAS application and add this course. One application covers up to five choices.
- 2Write your personal statement
A single statement covers all your choices, so keep it broad enough for similar courses while showing genuine interest in this subject.
- 3Submit by Apply directly to the provider
Part-time application dates vary by provider. Source: UCAS 2027 dates.
- 4Reply to your offers
When decisions are in, pick a firm (first) choice and an insurance (back-up) choice with slightly lower grades.
- 5Results day & confirmation
On results day (mid-August) your place is confirmed if you meet the offer. Just missed? Talk to the university, or find a place through Clearing.
Fees & funding
What this course costs and how UK student finance covers it.
Tuition per year
Provider fee page (England 2026/27 cap where not stated).
Check fees at BCU →For students who normally live in England
2026/27 Student Finance England figures. Maintenance support is means-tested and this two-point view is not an entitlement calculator. The course total uses its published length and home fee where both are available; a missing full-time fee uses the clearly labelled England-cap scenario, while part-time fees and unknown lengths are never guessed. Use the official calculator. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland use separate systems: SAAS, Student Finance Wales, and Student Finance NI.
Starting on or after 1 January 2027?
The Lifelong Learning Entitlement is a separate system. A new learner’s tuition entitlement is currently stated as £39,160 (about 480 credits at 2026/27 fee levels), subject to prior study and eligibility. Check the official LLE guide.
Paying for it
- Tuition Fee Loan: can cover eligible tuition up to the applicable limit and is paid straight to the provider.
- Maintenance Loan: up to £10,830/yr away from home outside London (England, 2026/27), means-tested on household income.
- Repayment: 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below it; written off after 40 years.
- Earn alongside: most students work part-time in term, part-time roles on the StudySmarter job board.
England figures shown; Scotland, Wales & NI run their own schemes, check gov.uk.
Scholarships & bursaries you could qualify for
That does not mean no funding exists. Check the university directory for current amounts, eligibility and application dates.
We only display a named award when its provider source identifies the award and who it is for.
Still deciding what to study?
StudyKit brings course choice, applications and funding together in one place, with a personal AI assistant. Find what really fits you and start your UCAS application step by step.
Careers & earnings
What Business & Management graduates actually earn, from real outcome data, 15 months, 3 years and 5 years after graduating.
Graduate earnings: this course
| When | Median | Typical range | Graduates |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 months after | £35,000 | £26,000 – £49,000 | 1675 |
| 3 years after | £21,500 | £17,000 – £31,000 | 25 |
| 5 years after | £25,000 | £19,000 – £33,000 | 25 |
Nominal earnings for graduates of this course/subject at this provider. Stronger evidence. Published sample: 1,675. Cohort 2021-22.
- 1Graduate / AnalystOn a scheme or first role · 0–2 yrs
- 2Specialist / ManagerOwning an area, marketing, finance, ops · 2–5 yrs
- 3Senior / Head ofLeading a function and a team · 5–10 yrs
- 4Director / FounderRunning a business unit or your own company · 10+ yrs
How pay grows: this course vs Business & Management nationally
National figures for Business & Management graduates, HESA Graduate Outcomes (15 months) and the Longitudinal Education Outcomes (LEO) dataset (3 & 5 years). These are national, not university-specific; actual pay varies by employer, region, role and experience. Different cohorts, so the bars are not one group over time.
Work out your pay
Headline figures hide a lot. Calculate realistic take-home pay for this field by role, region and experience, then check your CV before you apply.
Value compared with similar courses
How this course’s 5-year median earnings compare with Business & Management courses at the same study level.
Compared with 3,421 courses with compatible official earnings data. This is a course-value comparison, not a quality ranking.
Job market & outlook
How Business & Management graduates fare in the labour market, and how AI is reshaping the work.
How AI is changing the work
AI doesn't replace the profession, it shifts it: routine tasks get automated, while judgement, working with people and using AI well become more valuable.
What AI takes off your plate
- Routine reporting and data pulls
- First-draft decks and copy
- Standard forecasts and reconciliations
- Scheduling and admin workflows
More human than ever
- Strategy and judgement under uncertainty
- Leading, negotiating and selling
- Sense-checking and owning what AI produces
- Relationships with clients and teams
The strongest graduates pair subject depth with the ability to use AI tools critically.
Roles & employers
Where Business & Management graduates typically go, indicative destinations from graduate career data. Each role links to live openings on the StudySmarter job board.
Roles graduates go into
Where they work
- Consultancies
- Corporate graduate schemes
- Retail & FMCG
- Startups & scale-ups
Jobs after this course
Current roles from the StudySmarter job board that suit Business & Management graduates.
Is this course right for you?
The essentials UK applicants ask about: finance, outcomes, entry and quality.
Student finance
For comparison, the standard full-time England tuition cap is up to £9,790 per year in 2026/27; the actual fee varies by course and provider. If you normally live in England, eligible students can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan, plus a Maintenance Loan for living costs. Under Plan 5 you repay 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below that, and the balance is written off after 40 years.
Where graduates go
Most graduates were in work or further study, with a median salary of £35,000. See the full breakdown in Careers & earnings above.
Official-data snapshot
Averaging the official measures published for it, this course scores 7.8 out of 10: NSS 78%.
Who studies here and in this subject?
Provider- and UK subject-level context.
Birmingham City University
Business and management across the UK
HESA student record 2024/25. Counts are rounded.
Local crime-data context
A neutral snapshot around the published teaching location.
Around City Centre Campus
4,178 street-level reports returned within roughly one mile across 2026-04 to 2026-06.
Police.uk street-level API. Approximate locations, not confined to campus. England, Wales and Northern Ireland; not Scotland.
Is Business & Management right for you?
Tick what applies to you and see how good a fit it is.
International students
What applying to BCU from outside the UK involves: fees, English, visa, funding and living costs.
Tuition fees
International tuition is £18,570 / year for this course (from the provider’s fee page). You’re not eligible for UK Tuition Fee or Maintenance Loans, so plan for fees plus living costs upfront.
English language
Most UK undergraduate courses ask for around IELTS 6.0–6.5 (no band below 5.5–6.0), or an accepted equivalent. If you’re just short, most universities run a pre-sessional English course that counts towards the requirement.
Student visa
You’ll usually need a Student visa (Student Route). After you accept an offer the university issues a CAS; you then show funds for fees plus about £1,023–£1,334/month living costs and pay the Immigration Health Surcharge for NHS access.
Scholarships & funding
Many universities offer international/global scholarships (often £2,000–£6,000/yr), check BCU’s funding pages.
Living costs
Budget roughly £1,100–£1,400/month outside London and £1,400–£1,800/month in London for rent, food and travel; the figure also matters for your visa.
Working while you study
A Student visa usually allows up to 20 hours/week in term time and full-time in holidays, useful alongside study, though not something to rely on for fees.
Visa rules and fees change. Always confirm the current requirements with BCU and gov.uk before you apply.
Related courses
More at BCU
Business & Management at other universities
Common questions
What are the entry requirements?
What do graduates go on to do?
What will it cost me?
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