Human Resource Management and Employment Relations

Program Overview

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The Bachelor of Commerce in Human Resource Management and Employment Relations at Victoria University of Wellington equips students with the knowledge and skills to create effective workplace practices. The program focuses on understanding how good HRM can positively impact people's working lives, covering key areas like recruitment, training, development, compensation, and employment relationships. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in human resources and employment relations, with a high rate of employment in their chosen field. The program is recognized by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), ensuring that graduates meet the highest international standards in HRM.

Program Outline

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Objectives:

• Develop an understanding of the role of human resources in managing people within organizations.
• Explore key areas of HRM like recruitment, training, development, and compensation.
• Gain insight into employment relationships and how they are regulated in New Zealand and internationally.
• Examine the interaction between government, trade unions, employers, and their organizations.

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Program Description:

The HRM&ER program delves into the changing nature of work and employment relationships in the modern world.

• Recruitment and selection: Identifying and attracting talent, conducting interviews, and making hiring decisions.
• Training and development: Designing and implementing programs to enhance employee skills and knowledge.
• Pay and remuneration: Understanding compensation structures, benefits, and reward systems.
• Employee relations: Managing conflict, addressing grievances, and maintaining a positive work environment.
• Employment law and regulations: Understanding legal requirements related to employment, safety, and discrimination.
The program also covers relevant topics in employment relations, such as:
• Collective bargaining: Negotiating agreements between employers and unions.
• Trade unions and their role in protecting worker rights.

• The impact of government policies on employment relations.

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Outline

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Program Content:

• Human Resource Management: This core area covers the principles and practices of managing people within organizations, focusing on recruitment, training, development, compensation, performance management, and employee relations.
• Employment Relations: This core area explores the legal and regulatory framework governing employment relationships, including the role of trade unions, collective bargaining, and industrial relations.
• Management: Students gain a broader understanding of management principles and practices, including leadership, organizational behavior, and strategic management.

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Program Structure:

• The program consists of 360 credits, typically completed over three years of full-time study.
• Students take a combination of core courses in HRM&ER, management, and electives in their chosen area of specialization.
• The program includes a research project in the final year, allowing students to apply their knowledge to a real-world issue.

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Course Schedule:

• The program follows a semester-based system, with two semesters per year.
• Each semester typically involves four courses, each with three hours of lectures and one hour of tutorial per week.
• Students can access course materials and resources online through the university's learning management system.

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Individual Modules:

• HRM&ER modules: Human Resource Management, Employment Relations, Managing People, Recruitment and Selection, Training and Development, Compensation and Benefits, Performance Management, Employee Relations, Industrial Relations, Collective Bargaining, Trade Unions.
• Management modules: Management Principles, Organizational Behavior, Leadership, Strategic Management, Operations Management, Marketing Management, Financial Management.
• Elective modules: Students can choose from a range of electives in areas such as international HRM, diversity management, change management, project management, and employment law.

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Assessment

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Assessment Methods:

• A variety of assessment methods are used to evaluate student learning, including:
• Assignments and essays
• Case studies and presentations
• Examinations
• Research projects

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Assessment Criteria:

• Assessments are based on the following criteria:
• Knowledge and understanding of key concepts
• Critical thinking and analysis
• Communication and presentation skills
• Problem-solving and application of knowledge

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Teaching

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Teaching Methods:

• The program uses a variety of teaching methods to engage students and promote active learning, including:
• Lectures
• Tutorials
• Group discussions
• Case studies
• Simulations
• Guest speakers

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Faculty:

• The program is taught by experienced and qualified academics with expertise in HRM&ER, management, and related fields.
• Faculty members are actively involved in research and are committed to providing students with a high-quality learning experience.

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Unique Approaches:

• The program focuses on real-world application of knowledge and emphasizes developing practical skills.
• Students have opportunities to participate in industry placements and work on real-world projects.

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Careers

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Potential Career Paths:

• Human Resources Manager
• Employment Relations Specialist
• Recruitment Consultant
• Training and Development Officer
• Industrial Relations Officer
• Union Official

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Career Opportunities:

• Graduates of the HRM&ER program are well-prepared for a variety of careers in the human resources and employment relations field.
• They can work in a range of organizations, including government agencies, private companies, non-profit organizations, and trade unions.

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Career Outcomes:

• Graduates of the HRM&ER program have a high rate of employment in their chosen field.
• They are highly sought after by employers due to their strong knowledge, skills, and experience.
• Many graduates go on to successful careers in senior management positions.

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Other

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International Recognition:

• The program is recognized by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), the leading professional body for HRM professionals in the UK.
• This recognition ensures that graduates meet the highest international standards in HRM.

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Support for Students:

• The program provides a range of support services for students, including academic advising, career counseling, and wellbeing support.
• Wellington is the capital city of New Zealand and offers a vibrant and diverse community.