Business and Management

Higher Diploma in Business (Human Resource Management)
with optional Work Placement

Aims of the Programme

The central objective of the Higher Diploma programme is to prepare graduates for employment in a Human Resource Management (HRM) related business context. It combines an intensive introduction to core business disciplines and ab-initio coverage of the fundamental HRM concepts and applications most relevant to the modern business environment. The course is designed for non business and non HRM graduates who wish to pursue a career in this field or to further develop significant knowledge of HRM.  This intensive programme presents a significant challenge to participants. The intention is to provide students with an appropriate combination of academic theory, practical business applications and skills to assist their transition to the world of business. This will be accomplished through the content of courses offered, the range of learning processes employed and the mix of lecturers contributing to the programme. The lecturing team will consist of persons who combine appropriate academic qualifications with a wealth of practical experience in business and HRM.

Key Features of the Programme

• Exposure to the academic foundation of business principles
• Fosters strong analytical skills
• Develops soft transferable skills
• Encourages deeper insight into organisational processes
• Provides students with models of good business practice
• Identifies for students the challenges and demands arising from both the internal and external environments
• Opportunity to gain 4 months practical work experience

Full-Time

For full-time students, delivery of the programme is structured over two semesters with an optional four months work experience from June to September.

Work placement (Optional)

One of the most attractive aspects of the full time programme is the opportunity to gain practical work experience over a four month period. The opportunity of a full time position may arise, and graduates of this programme are at a distinct advantage in terms of future employment prospects.

Part-Time

For part-time students the programme is structured over three semesters, each of approximately four months duration. Each semester covers four subjects on an intensive and challenging basis. During each semester, students are typically required to attend lectures on two evenings per week and occasional weekend workshops.

Assessment

Student assessment will be based on a combination of continuous assessment and end of semester examinations.  Continuous assessment will involve a number of assessment methods, including research essays, analysis of case studies, practical assessments and projects. For the purpose of continuous assessment students will be required to work individually and in groups. End of semester examinations will usually be closed book, timed constrained written examinations which will feature a range of question styles. 

Careers

On completion of this programme, graduates will have the business and HRM knowledge and skills required to commence employment in a variety of business and management areas such as management, business administration, marketing and finance within a wide range of industry sectors. 

Entry Requirements

To be considered for admission, applicants must hold:

• A primary honours degree award of at least pass level in a non-cognate discipline from a recognised third level institution or equivalent qualification
• An IELTS score of a minimum 6.0 or equivalent, where full-time study has been conducted in a language other than English or applicants whose first language is not English. 

Full-Time Course Content

Part-Time Course Content

Learner protection for this programme is provided in accordance with Section 43 of the Qualifications (Education and Training ) Act 1999.