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Human Resource Management in Context - MAN00072M

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  • Department: The York Management School
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: M
  • Academic year of delivery: 2022-23

Module summary

The principle aim of this module is to introduce students to the responsibilities of the human resource function and the foundational theories and assumptions that underpin practice. The module will equip students with the knowledge of HR’s role in building organisational capacity by understanding contemporary issues within the HR profession.

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Autumn Term 2022-23

Module aims

The principle aim of this module is to introduce students to the responsibilities of the human resource function and the foundational theories and assumptions that underpin practice. The module will equip students with the knowledge of HR’s role in building organisational capacity by understanding contemporary issues within the HR profession. It will critically examine the way employers integrate different HR systems with business strategy. Students will explore how to promote strong organisational leadership alongside fair and effective management of individuals whilst navigating the contradictions and challenges of the dynamic global business environment.

Module learning outcomes

To be selected from the following:-

The content of the module will be drawn from, but not necessarily confined to the following topics:

1. The historical background of ‘HRM’, the legal framework for HRM, the organisational environment.

2. Theoretical underpinning of HRM including the psychological contract, motivation and commitment

3. The managerial and business environment within which HR professionals work

4. Designing HRM to align with organisational goals and market context

5. Architecture model of HRM

6. Linking HRM to performance

7. Responsibility for delivering HRM: The HR function, practitioners, line managers, outsourcing HR

8. The contribution of HR/HRD practitioners in different types of organisations

9. Developing HR Specialism

10. Leadership in organisations

The above syllabus will be delivered through weekly lectures and seminars.

Academic and graduate skills

By the end of the module, students will be able to:-

1. Evaluate major theories of motivation, commitment and engagement at work, in theory and in practice

2. Understand and explain the links between business strategy and human resource management

3. Identify the most appropriate roles for the HR function in different types of organisations

4. Critically evaluate the characteristics of effective leadership and the methods used by organisations to develop leadership

5. Promote effective management of people in dynamic and complex business environments

Indicative assessment

Task % of module mark
Online Exam - 24 hrs (Centrally scheduled) 100

Special assessment rules

None

Indicative reassessment

Task % of module mark
Online Exam - 24 hrs (Centrally scheduled) 100

Module feedback

Students receive individual written feedback on each item of coursework within five weeks of submission. A comprehensive module assessment report is released to students after the summer term exam board.

Indicative reading

Marchington, M., Wilkinson, A, Donnelly, R. and Kynighou, A. (2016): Human Resource Management at Work, CIPD: London


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University constantly explores ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary. In some instances it may be appropriate for the University to notify and consult with affected students about module changes in accordance with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.