Employment Law and Practice - PgCert

Program Overview

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The Employment Law and Practice PgCert program at Ulster University equips students with a comprehensive understanding of employment law and practical skills in alternative dispute resolution and tribunal representation. Led by experienced academics and legal practitioners, the program combines online lectures with interactive sessions, providing students with valuable insights and career advancement opportunities in the field of employment law.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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Overview:

• The Employment Law and Practice PgCert program equips students with the knowledge and skills to navigate the complex realm of employment law.
• This online course provides a comprehensive understanding of both the legal framework and its practical application, preparing graduates for a variety of careers in the field.
• The program features two key components:
• 24 lectures from leading employment law practitioners in Northern Ireland.

• 12 afternoon sessions on ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution) and tribunal representation.

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Objectives:

• To equip students with a thorough understanding of the context and substantive law of employment relationships.
• To develop students' abilities to apply their knowledge and solve complex legal and ethical issues in employment settings.
• To provide students with the practical skills necessary for effective representation in employment tribunals and alternative dispute resolution processes.

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Outline:

The program consists of the following modules:

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Year One:

• Employment Compliance and Development: This module delves into the intricacies of employment compliance issues, enabling students to stay abreast of the latest legislative and case law developments and respond effectively to complex practical, legal, and ethical challenges.
• Employment Law: This core module provides an in-depth examination of the critical aspects of employment law, covering essential topics such as contracts of employment, discrimination, unfair dismissal, and industrial relations.
• Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): This module explores the growing field of ADR, examining various methods such as arbitration, mediation, and conciliation.
Students learn the rationale and ethics of ADR, develop practical skills in these processes, and explore its application across diverse legal areas, including commercial, family, and employment law.
• Tribunal Representation: This module combines lectures and practical exercises to enhance students' existing professional practice in employment and social security matters.
Students develop their ability to apply knowledge and hone practical skills gained in other modules, discussing the rationale and consequences of different courses of action in various scenarios and critiquing potential solutions.

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Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

• The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods, including mock employment tribunal bundles, case studies, and other employment-related scenarios.
• Mock tribunals provide students with simulated courtroom experiences, allowing them to apply their knowledge and skills in a realistic setting and receive valuable feedback from legal professionals.
• Other scenarios may include drafting letters of advice, negotiating settlements, or preparing employment contracts.

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Assessment Criteria:

• The assessment criteria are tailored to each module and aligned with the learning outcomes.
Students are evaluated on their ability to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the relevant legal principles, apply their knowledge to solve complex problems, and communicate their conclusions effectively.
• Specific criteria may include clarity and coherence of arguments, legal reasoning, critical analysis, and persuasiveness.

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

• The program employs a blended learning approach, combining online lectures and interactive sessions.
• The majority of content is delivered online, allowing for flexibility and方便 for students with diverse schedules and geographical locations.
• Live sessions take place on Tuesday afternoons, providing opportunities for engagement with lecturers and guest speakers.
• All live sessions and presentations are recorded, ensuring accessibility for students who cannot attend in real-time.

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Faculty:

• The program is led by experienced academics and legal practitioners with extensive expertise in employment law.
• These experts bring a wealth of knowledge and practical experience into the classroom, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education.
• Students have access to dedicated support from the program director and administrative team throughout their studies.

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Careers:

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Career Options:

• Graduates of the Employment Law and Practice PgCert can pursue a variety of career paths in the field of employment law, including:
• HR Manager
• Employment Relations Officer
• Recruitment Consultant
• Employment Law Adviser
• Barrister specializing in employment law
• Solicitor specializing in employment law

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Benefits:

• The program prepares students for higher-level positions within existing organizations, leadership roles in new ventures, or independent practice as employment law consultants.
• Graduates gain a comprehensive understanding of employment law, practical skills in problem-solving and dispute resolution, and valuable insights into the evolving legal landscape.
• This program enhances career prospects and opens doors to exciting opportunities in the dynamic field of employment law.

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Other:

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Program Highlights:

• The program boasts a unique and effective structure, combining the theoretical foundations of employment law with practical hands-on experience.
• Students benefit from interactive sessions with leading practitioners in the field, gaining invaluable insight into real-world challenges and best practices.
• The flexible online format provides convenience and accessibility, making the program ideal for working professionals, individuals seeking career advancement, or those transitioning into the employment law field.
• The curriculum is carefully designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to succeed in a competitive job market.

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Guest Lecturers:

• The program features contributions from guest speakers who are recognized experts in their respective areas.
• These individuals bring diverse perspectives and practical knowledge to the classroom, enriching the learning experience and providing students with valuable career advice.

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Testimonials:

• The program received positive feedback from previous participants, who commended the practical nature of the curriculum, the expertise of the instructors, and the overall learning experience.

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Admission Requirements:

• Applicants must hold a degree in law, human resource management, or a degree with significant law content.
• Applicants may also be considered with a non-law degree or non-human resource degree but with demonstrably relevant work experience or equivalent qualifications.
• Alternatively, applicants can demonstrate their ability to undertake the course through accreditation or prior experiential learning.

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English Language Requirements:

• Additional costs may include accommodation, travel, and living expenses.