Business and Human Resource Management with Integrated Foundation Year BA (Hons)

Overview

This four-year version of our popular BA (Hons) Business and Human Resource Management course includes an integrated foundation year. Study a CIPD accredited course highly relevant to modern workplaces. Undertake a year-long placement and put your learning into practice. Gain sought-after skills and knowledge for a rewarding career in Human Resource Management.

Why us?

• We've been shortlisted for Business School of the Year in the Times Higher Education Awards 2024
• Accredited by the Chartered Institute of Personnel Development (CIPD)
• Every module has a link to industry so that you can apply your learning in authentic business scenarios
• Cutting-edge topics are covered such as issues around Sustainability in Business and Digital aspects of Business in the 21st century workplace
• Available as a sandwich year course where you can engage in a one-year industrial placement
• Places HRM in a business and management context to allow better understanding of the role of HRM in the organisation
• Course content has been carefully designed with students and employers to enhance your employability

Course structure

With an innovative mix of experiential learning and knowledge development in terms of the role, function and influence of managers and leaders in a changing business world, the course provides you with opportunities for creative, reflexive, innovative and entrepreneurial skills development in live work environments.

Examples of experiential learning methods include live projects, placement opportunities, workplace shadowing and panel presentations.

The course features innovative teaching methods and learning by doing and reflecting. This includes problem-based learning, where you’ll work in a small team to explore issues or decide how to manage a situation. This helps you to dissect, challenge and debate issues.

Other teaching methods include company visits, guest speakers and cutting-edge e-learning technologies. These are in addition to a combination of lectures, seminars, debates, tutorials and workshops.

Assessment methods include: narrative reports, e-portfolios, consultancy projects, negotiated assessments, case studies, reflective statements, audio journals, posters, digital storyboards, blogs, podcasts and YouTube videos.

Foundation Year

The Business and Tourism Integrated Foundation Year includes five modules:

Core:

• Global Issues in Business and Tourism (20 credits)

Engage with the literature and current debates on some of the major current global issues and trends within Business and Tourism in general. Examples include: wireless communication and technological transformation, universal payment methods, cost of fuel, security/safety and pandemics, political conditions, food security and food waste, rising income inequality, international trade and investment. Investigate a current global issue related to your degree of study via lectures/seminars, workshops and blended learning activities.

• Essential Study Skills (20 credits)

Bridge the gap between Further Education and Higher Education. Understand the level of work you will be expected to do at University, how to become an independent learner and how to find answers yourself.

• Foundation Project (20 credits)

Investigate a topic area related to your degree programme. Projects will vary according to the degree programme of study but typically the formats would include: a review paper, a practical project or analysis of data for a report. Utilise the lectures and surgeries and gain specialist input into your proposed project. While the module is based around independent learning, tutors are on hand to guide the process through the use of weekly surgeries.

• Foundations of Business and Tourism (40 credits)

Learn about the main functions of an organisation, its various functional areas, and the role and importance of management in the effective co-ordination of those functions. Explore the contemporary global business issues and its impact on international, regional and local market place. Engage with the relevant literature and current debates in relation to your identified areas.

• Practical Numeracy Skills (20 credits)

Consolidating your numerical skills, see how these can be used in real-life applications, and consider how statistical results are presented, calculated and statistics misrepresented. See how to apply this knowledge in everyday life settings, both at work and at a personal level. Take responsibility for your own learning and ensuring you are able to manage your time and work independently.

Year 1 (national level 4):

• Business Organisations and Society (30 credits)

Take an in-depth look at the influence of digital technology on ways of working. Put a specific focus on ‘Place’ and Society in an international, national and local context. Develop a global perspective on the influence of technologies on working practices and employee behaviour considering historical, ethical, cultural and societal trends.

• Business Management Skills Development (30 credits)

Develop a selection of transferable employability skills through a diverse range of experiences. Examine the importance of developing your own professional identity. Place this identity in the context of changing, challenging and dynamic organisations.

• Understanding Markets and Marketing (30 credits)

Gain a foundational understanding of the fundamentals of marketing. Examine global case studies and develop a broad knowledge base of markets and marketing. Explore the purpose of marketing in business and organisations.

• Fundamentals of Financial Decision Making (30 credits)

Accomplish a good understanding of firm’s investment and financial decision making. Develop techniques to interpret and assimilate accounting information. Benefit from learning the fundamental knowledge of tools of financial decision making.

Year 2 (national level 5):

• Managing Self and Others (30 credits)

Examine the relevant concepts to evaluate professional behaviour and investigate this in the context of success and performance of organisations. Study some of the problems that can arise in the workplace. Analyse cause and resolution strategies to enhance performance and engagement.

• Delivering Projects for Organisational Success (30 credits)

Explore some of the fundamental and contemporary components necessary to plan, assess and manage successful projects. Study this in the context of organisational operations, logistics and holistic supply chains. Develop the knowledge and skills of process and human aspects of project management in delivering organisational success.

• Cognitive Creative Learning and Development (30 credits)

Carve out your cognitive and creative problem-solving skills with practice-based experience. Consider how creative techniques are used to solve problems. Learn via a unique and creative learning experience.

• Contemporary Human Resource Management (30 credits)

Gain a critical knowledge base of the contemporary issues in the field of human resource management including equality, diversity, employee wellbeing, reward and engagement. Debate and critique potential external influences and the impact they have on the role, function and profession of human resource management. Consider the modern evolution of human resource management from a research and practitioner perspective.

Final year (national level 6):

• Strategic Leadership and Collaboration (30 credits)

Establish the relevant skills and understanding related to strategic leadership and collaboration. Engage in a critical exploration of theories on the importance of, and approaches to, strategic leadership in organisations. Understand leadership strategies and their impact on organisational success, resilience and growth alongside the dynamics of personal interaction with colleagues, teams and stakeholders to create collaboration.

• Managing Business Continuity and Resilience (30 credits)

Critically understand the management of a modern international business organisation. Consider issues such as crisis management and contingency planning brought about by changing market conditions. Grasp the key factors that are required for business resilience and growth.

• Business Consultancy Project (30 credits)

Examine the fundamental components necessary to effectively source, design, research and disseminate business consultancy projects for small to medium sized businesses and larger companies. Incorporate an international perspective on consultancy projects. Consider that the role of a consultancy now requires a blend of both physical and virtual skills.

• Professional Human Resource Skills (30 credits)

Establish a foundation of knowledge of key standardised HR skills including conflict resolution, discipline, investigation interviewing and negotiation skills. Understand how these skills can be utilised confidently and pragmatically in dealing with contentious employment issues. Evaluate your skill set by demonstrating your ability to advise, influence, challenge and support line managers in their people management role.

Facilities

You'll be based at The Reg Vardy Centre, on the Sir Tom Cowie Campus at St Peter’s. It’s a modern building with great views of the River Wear, and just a few minutes’ walk from the coast.

Entry requirements

We don’t currently display entry requirements for Ireland. Please contact the Student Admin team on or .

Entry requirements are provided for guidance only and we may offer you an entrance interview which will help us determine your eligibility for your chosen degree. This enables us to consider making you an offer if you're perhaps a mature student who's been out of education for a period of time, or you've gained significant knowledge and skills through employment rather than traditional education.

Eligible entry qualifications:

If you're unsure of whether you think you might be suitable for the course, please contact us.

**If you've studied for a GCSE which has a numerical grade, you'll need to achieve a grade 4 or above. Equivalent alternative qualifications are also accepted, such as Level 2 Key Skills in Communication and Application of Number.

If English isn't your first language, please see our English language requirements.

Fees and finance

The annual fee for this course is £5,760 if you're from the UK/Ireland/EU settled/pre-settled.

Undergraduate fees are set according to rules from Government in line with forecast inflation. The fee for your first year of study for 2025/26 will be £5,760. You will pay tuition fees for every year of study. Fees may increase every year based on the Retail Price Index.

If you're a full-time UK/Irish/EU settled/EU pre-settled student, you may be eligible to receive financial support to cover your fees for the full four years. UK and EU settled students may also be eligible to receive a maintenance loan.

Please note, this course isn't available to international students.

Learn more about settled status, pre-settled status, special discounts, visa requirements, and Common Travel Area (CTA) agreements for the Republic of Ireland applicants in our Help and Advice article.

Take a look at the scholarships and bursaries that may be available to you.

This information was correct at the time of publication.

Career ready

Our students graduate with sought-after skills and knowledge across all areas of business and management. You'll understand how businesses create success, how to manage business operations, how to make informed decisions, and how to lead change in organisations. In addition, CIPD-accredited qualifications can significantly enhance your career opportunities.

The employability focused curriculum of the course has been designed in collaboration with a range of employers including: CDC Wealth Management, Caterpillar, Nissan, Network Rail, NCC Education, NHS, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Uplift Associates, Sedgefield SSP CIC, Castle Howard and NRL Ltd.

Guest speakers

Our regular programme of guest speakers from industry allows you to listen to people who are already in the type of management position that you may one day hold. Recent speakers include Maurice Duffy, CEO of Global Blackswan, Mike Johnson, CEO of Castrol and Executive Vice President of BP, Uday K. Dholakia, Senior Partner of Global Consulting, Neil Stephenson, CEO of ONYX, James Ramsbotham, CEO of the North East Chamber of Commerce, as well as other representatives from a number of our region’s largest employers.

Paid placements

The faculty-based employability team will support you in securing an optional paid work placement to further enhance your employability between your second and final year. It effectively becomes a third year of a four-year course, and you’ll earn an average salary of £14,000-£18,000 a year depending on your location.

Placements are an excellent opportunity to put your learning into practice and understand the context for your new knowledge. The contacts made during placements can also be valuable for future job offers.

Student Business Society

The University supports student-led initiatives that help you gain practical experience of management. The Student Business Society organises events and guest speakers, as well as attending tours of various companies. With its professional approach, it’s a great way to put into practice the lessons about how to make organisations function effectively. There is something for every student who is studying a subject related to business.

Top-up route

A top-up entry option is available to those who have already successfully completed a Higher National Diploma (HND) or Foundation Degree and wish to progress onto the final year of the honours degree course. Topping up your existing HND or Foundation Degree will take one year of full-time study and may open up future career options to you depending on your chosen career path.

Contact us to find out how you can get credit for your previous learning and top-up your qualification to a range of degrees.

Degree Overview:

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Overview:

This four-year version of the BA (Hons) Business and Human Resource Management course includes an integrated foundation year designed to equip students with the necessary academic skills and knowledge to succeed on the honors degree program. The course focuses on developing essential skills and knowledge for modern workplaces, such as digital aspects of business, sustainability issues, and human resource management (HRM) functions.

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Objectives:

The program's primary objectives include:

• Equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career in HRM.
• Providing a comprehensive understanding of business operations and management principles.
• Enhancing students' employability through various activities and opportunities.
• Preparing students for the demands of modern workplaces and the evolving business landscape.

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Description:

The BA (Hons) Business and Human Resource Management with Integrated Foundation Year offers a unique approach to learning. Through the integrated foundation year, students gain a strong academic foundation and develop essential skills in critical analysis, research, and communication. The program's focus on contemporary business topics and HRM ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the challenges of the modern workplace. The program is distinguished by:

• Strong Industry Focus: Modules are developed in close collaboration with industry experts, ensuring their relevance to the current needs of businesses.
• Experienced Faculty: The course is led by a team of experienced and qualified professionals who are passionate about HRM and business education.
• Practical Experience: The program incorporates various activities and opportunities for students to gain practical experience, such as guest speaker sessions, company visits, and optional paid placements.
## Outline:

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Program Content:

The program covers a broad range of topics related to business and human resource management, including:

• Business Operations and Management
• Marketing and Customer Relations
• Human Resource Management (HRM)
• Strategic Leadership and Collaboration
• Business Consultancy
• Professional Human Resource Skills
• Sustainable Business Management
• Project Management
• Leadership Development
• Employability Skills
• Contemporary HR Issues

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Structure:

The program consists of the following stages:

• Foundation Year: This initial year focuses on building academic skills and knowledge in areas such as mathematics, communication, and business fundamentals.
• Years 1 and 2: These years delve deeper into core business and HRM topics, with modules designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the key functions and concepts.
• Year 3 (Optional Paid Placement): Students have the option to undertake a paid placement year in a relevant organization, allowing them to gain practical experience and apply their learned skills in a real-world setting.
• Final Year: This year focuses on developing specialized knowledge and skills related to HRM, with modules such as consultancy projects, professional HR skills development, and strategic leadership.

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Course Schedule:

The specific course schedule varies depending on the academic year. However, students can expect a combination of lectures, seminars, tutorials, workshops, group projects, and independent study time. The program typically includes:

• Two semesters per academic year.
• Modules spread across weekdays, with flexibility in scheduling.
• Opportunities for online learning and engagement with digital resources.

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Individual Modules:

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Foundation Year

• Global Issues in Business and Tourism (20 credits) - Examines global business and tourism issues with a focus on current trends, sustainability, and ethical aspects.
• Essential Study Skills (20 credits) - Enhances students' academic skills in various areas, preparing them for higher-level study.
• Foundation Project (20 credits) - Develops research and analytical skills through a self-selected project related to the chosen degree program.
• Foundations of Business and Tourism (40 credits) - Introduces the main functions of organizations and delves into the roles of management and different business areas.

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Year 1

• Business Organisations and Society (30 credits) - Analyzes the influence of technology on business operations and contemporary business issues.
• Business Management Skills Development (30 credits) - Explores various employability skills development techniques and their importance in professional identity development.
• Understanding Markets and Marketing (30 credits) - Acquires a solid understanding of marketing principles, market analysis, and consumer behavior.
• Fundamentals of Financial Decision Making (30 credits) - Develops financial knowledge and skills related to investment, financial decision-making, and accounting interpretation.

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Year 2

• Managing Self and Others (30 credits) - Examines behavior and communication, explores performance management techniques, and analyzes conflict resolution strategies.
• Delivering Projects for Organisational Success (30 credits) - Provides the knowledge and skills to plan, manage, and deliver successful projects in diverse organizational settings.
• Cognitive Creative Learning and Development (30 credits) - Focuses on developing creative problem-solving skills through practical experience.
• Contemporary Human Resource Management (30 credits) - Examines contemporary issues in HRM, such as equality, diversity, employee well-being, and best practices in the field.

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Final Year

• Strategic Leadership and Collaboration (30 credits) - Develops strategic leadership and collaboration skills, analyzing organizational success strategies and fostering effective teamwork.
• Managing Business Continuity and Resilience (30 credits) - Critically examines business operation management, focusing on crisis management, contingency planning, and organizational resilience building.
• Business Consultancy Project (30 credits) - Equips students with skills needed to source, design, research, and deliver consultancy projects for various organizations.
• Professional Human Resource Skills (30 credits) - Builds essential HR skills, including conflict resolution, discipline, investigation interviewing, and professional communication in contentious employment situations.
## Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

The program utilizes a diverse range of assessment methods, including:

• Written assignments (e.g., essays, reports)
• Presentations
• Exams (including online exams)
• Group projects
• Case studies
• Practical demonstrations
• Portfolios
• Reflective journals
• Oral examinations
The specific assessment methods used vary depending on the module and its learning objectives.

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Assessment Criteria:

Assessments are evaluated based on criteria such as:

• Depth of understanding
• Critical analysis
• Analytical and problem-solving skills
• Application of theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios
• Communication and presentation skills
• Research skills
• Professionalism
• Originality and creativity
• Adherence to deadlines
## Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

The program uses a variety of engaging teaching methods to enhance student learning, including:

• Interactive lectures
• Seminars with active student participation
• Tutorials for personalized guidance and feedback
• Workshops for practical skill development
• Problem-based learning activities
• Group projects
• Case studies and scenario-based learning
• Individual and group presentations
• Guest speaker sessions
• Industry visits and field trips
• Blended learning (combining traditional methods with online resources)

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Faculty:

The program is delivered by experienced and qualified faculty members with expertise in various areas of business and human resource management. The faculty is committed to providing a high-quality learning experience and supporting students in their academic journey.

Careers:

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Potential Career Paths:

The program prepares graduates for a wide range of careers in HRM and related fields, such as:

• Human Resource Manager
• HR Specialist
• Recruitment Consultant
• Training and Development Officer
• Employment Relations Officer
• Talent Management Specialist
• Diversity and Inclusion Specialist
• Compensation and Benefits Manager
• Labor Relations Specialist
• Personnel Administrator
• HR Business Partner

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Career Opportunities:

Graduates are well-equipped to pursue careers in various organizations, including:

• Private sector companies
• Public sector organizations
• Nonprofit organizations
• Multinational corporations
• Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
• Consultancy firms
• Recruitment agencies

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Career Outcomes:

The program emphasizes employability and provides students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the competitive job market.

• The program boasts a strong industry network and facilitates connections with potential employers through placement opportunities and guest speaker events.
• Graduates often secure employment in diverse HRM roles and experience career progression within their chosen fields.

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Other:

• CIPD Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Personnel Development (CIPD), a leading professional body for HRM in the UK.
This accreditation demonstrates the quality of the program and enhances the employability of graduates.
• Optional Paid Placements: Students have the opportunity to undertake a paid placement year in a relevant organization, gaining valuable practical experience and enhancing their career prospects.
• Guest Speaker Events: The program regularly hosts guest speakers from industry, providing insights into current trends, career opportunities, and real-world challenges.
• Industry Visits: Students may participate in visits to various organizations, allowing them to observe organizational practices and gain a deeper understanding of different sectors and work environments.
## Conclusion: The BA (Hons) Business and Human Resource Management with Integrated Foundation Year is a comprehensive and industry-focused program that equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge for a successful career in HRM. The program's unique structure, experienced faculty, and strong industry connections provide students with a valuable learning experience and prepare them for the challenges and opportunities of the modern workplace.

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The annual fee for this course is £9,250 if you're from the UK/Ireland/EU settled/pre-settled. If you're a full-time UK/Irish/EU settled/EU pre-settled student, you may be eligible to receive financial support to cover your fees for the full four years. UK and EU settled students may also be eligible to receive a maintenance loan. Please note, this course isn't available to international students.

University of Sunderland

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Overview:

The University of Sunderland is a public university located in Sunderland, England. It offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. The university has a strong focus on providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment for its students.

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Services Offered:

The University of Sunderland provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:

Academic Support:

Access to libraries, learning resources, and academic advisors.

Student Support:

Counseling, mental health services, and disability support.

Accommodation:

On-campus and off-campus housing options.

Career Services:

Career guidance, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.

Student Life:

A vibrant student union, clubs, societies, and social events.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

The university boasts a diverse and inclusive campus community where students can connect with people from different backgrounds and cultures. Students can participate in extracurricular activities, engage in personal and professional development opportunities, and enjoy a vibrant social scene.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Top-Quality Facilities:

The university has modern facilities, including a state-of-the-art library, sports facilities, and dedicated learning spaces.

Inclusive Culture:

The university fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students.

Vibrant City:

Sunderland is a dynamic city with a rich history and a low cost of living.

Strong Industry Links:

The university has strong connections with local businesses and industries, providing students with valuable career opportunities.

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Academic Programs:

The University of Sunderland offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Arts and Design:

Fashion, Photography, Fine Art, and Graphic Design.

Sciences:

Pharmacy, Nursing, Medicine, and Biology.

Business and Law:

Business Management, Finance, Law, and Tourism.

Computing and Engineering:

Computer Science, Software Engineering, and Electrical Engineering.

Education and Social Sciences:

Education, Psychology, and Social Work.

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Other:

The university has campuses in Sunderland, London, and Hong Kong, offering students a global learning experience. It is also recognized for its commitment to sustainability and equality, diversity, and inclusion.