Human Resource Development (International Development) – (M.Sc.)

The MSC in HRD enables participants to critically understand the role of human resource development in enhancing performance within their own institutions and societies. Emphasis is placed on how HRD can support economic and social advancement by improving public services, and in building capabilities within individuals, organisations and communities to effectively cope with change. The programme aims to develop students' critical appreciation of globalisation processes, policy initiatives and development management plans to support skills development and human capabilities, including development issues associated with eradicating gender inequalities, fostering human well being and maintaining sustainable livelihoods.

The objectives are that, by the end of the programme, participants will have:

* knowledge and understanding of the linkage between international development and HRD practices and policies;
* knowledge of globalisation and cross-cultural factors affecting the application of HRD theories and methods in developing, transitional and newly industrialised countries;
* knowledge of how approaches to national human resource development affect organisation and societal performance in developing and transitional economies;
* knowledge of how new approaches to human resource development affect the context for competence and performance enhancement in organisations and societies;
* an understanding of how to analyse and design HRD strategies at societal and organisational level, including gender national planning and empowerment;
* an understanding of their own learning and management skills and how they may be improved.

The programme is designed for individuals of any professional background in international organisations, public administration, transnational organisations and private sector companies who are involved in the HRD and capacity planning aspects of organisations in developing and transitional countries. These may include managers of HRD/training/learning, HRD and education planning in government administration; direct trainers, staff of training centres, consultants involved in change projects, consultants involved in community development; NGO managers and line managers concerned with the development of their staff.