Master of Science (MSc.) in Human Resource Management

Overview

The Master of Science in Human Resource Management (90 ECTS) is a Level 9 programme on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) in Ireland. Designed to cultivate strategic HR leaders, the programme addresses the complexities of the modern workplace where technology, data analytics, and evolving work structures redefine the professional landscape.

The curriculum builds deep expertise in essential areas such as contemporary employment law, ethical decision-making, embedding DEI principles, and predictive people analytics. It is specifically designed to provide a strong balance between theoretical knowledge and practical application, ensuring graduates can operate as strategic practitioners capable of contributing to long-term organisational value.

The programme is aimed at learners wishing to enter, advance, or move to management levels within the HR industry. It is suitable for both cognate graduates and non-cognate professionals with relevant experience, as well as international learners seeking a qualification accredited by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD).

Programme Objectives

The programme is designed to equip learners with advanced strategic capabilities to design and implement HR policies that align with organisational goals and respond to dynamic business challenges.

The Master of Science in Human Resource Management objectives are:

• Develop mastery of current and emerging skills in the theory and practice of human resource and talent management.

• Provide a critical understanding of pivotal theories and conceptual frameworks underpinning global HRM and organisational dynamics.

• Enable learners to critically appraise and champion Diversity, Equality, Inclusion, Ethical Practice, and Sustainability (DEI/ESG).

• Foster an attitude of inclusive, analytical, and ethically grounded leadership.

• Enable learners to design and justify innovative, evidence-based HRM solutions that cultivate sustainable competitive advantage.

• Facilitate the development of applied skills reflecting contemporary issues, including the impact of digital technologies, AI ethics, and data analytics on workforce strategy.

• Develop advanced understanding of employment law and conflict resolution to foster positive employee relations.

• Develop research skills and apply theoretical knowledge to work-based problems via a capstone dissertation.

Delivery

The programme is delivered in a blended format.

• Full-Time: Delivery is approximately 70–80% on-site and 20–30% synchronous online. 

• Part-Time: Delivery is transitioned to approximately 70% synchronous online and 30% on-site to provide maximum flexibility for working professionals.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirements for the MSc in Human Resource Management is aimed at learners with the following entry qualifications:

• • Cognate Entry: Minimum 2.2 Honours Bachelor Degree (Level 8) in a cognate area (HR, marketing, law, management, or related business discipline).

  • Non-Cognate Entry: Minimum 2.2 Honours Bachelor Degree (Level 8) in a non-cognate area plus 3–5 years’ professional experience in a related field.

  • RPL Entry: Applicants without a Level 8 qualification but with at least 3 years’ work experience may be considered via Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). An interview or GMAT may be required for these applicants.

  • English Language: Non-native speakers must provide evidence of proficiency equivalent to CEFR B2+ (e.g., IELTS 6.5 or equivalent).

  • Maths: Minimum of ordinary-level Leaving Certificate maths or equivalent competency.

Technology Required to access the course

Learners are required to have ongoing access to a computer, related software, and a reliable internet connection. This means that for learners their laptop or desktop computer will require a minimum of a supported version of a Windows operating system and 4GB RAM.

Students with Disabilities

Dublin Business School welcomes students with disabilities. The College employs a Disability and Inclusion Officer and appropriate supports in relation to teaching and assessment are put in place. DBS Library also offers a wide range of support to learners with disabilities.

Teaching and Assessment

The programme will be delivered in an innovative and flexible manner, through a blend of face-to-face and online learning environments including workshops, discussion forums, live tutorials and guest speakers from academia and industry through seminar series in order to demonstrate the full breadth of the people profession. By incorporating a focus on authentic assessment throughout modules to strengthen practical skills the professional development of learners to enhance their employability which will enable the learner to integrate seamlessly into an organisation. Assessment strategies include case studies, individual and group reports, data analysis, reflective journals, presentations and exams.