BA (Hons) Human Resource Management and Psychology

Course Overview

Designed to give you modern skills in the interrelated fields of human resource management and psychology, this course will teach you how to support and empower people in the workplace. You’ll learn the role psychology plays in business, and how it can be used to improve employee performance and business outcomes – all directly from industry experts who will provide you with real insight into the sector.

In developing this course, Arden have consulted some of today’s biggest industry leaders, such as Google, Coca Cola, and Oracle, ensuring the skills you gain are both in-demand and highly relevant to today’s workplace. The course will delve into effective approaches for managing people and maximising performance in the modern business environment. Key psychological principles will be covered, including occupational psychology, recruitment and selection, training and development, performance, and managing conflict, giving you insight into individual and organisational psychology. 

Not only that, but the course is run with your long-term future and employability in mind. Through AU business simulation software, SimVenture, you’ll have the opportunity to apply your learning to practise in a safe environment, allowing you to experience first-hand how to run a business and overcome the challenges you might face along the way.  You’ll also have regular guest speakers who will inform you of the latest developments in the field, providing you with knowledge of the real-world challenges you might face in your career and valuable opportunities for networking and professional development. 

Entry requirements

At Arden University applications are consider on a case by case basis. If you have significant work experience, have qualifications you have gained elsewhere, or a degree or qualification that isn’t a clear pathway to this degree – Arden team is more than happy to discuss your application.

What do you need to study with us?

AU aim is to make learning as accessible as possible by ensuring that you can join us, wherever you are.

That’s why Arden keep its requirements simple. All you need is a laptop or computer (AU recommend one running the latest version of Windows), and a good stable internet connection. With this one tool, you’ll be able to access information, advice, support, learning materials and AU online library, as well as create assignments, keep notes, and collaborate with other students effectively. 

AU’ll also support you with getting access to the design resources you need, wherever you study from, including assistance with obtaining any design software you need to successfully complete the course.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the BA (Hons) Human Resource Management and Psychology course, you should normally have:

  • Two subjects at GCE A-Level or equivalent, plus passes at grade C or above in three subjects at GCSE level or equivalent.
  • If you don’t meet these requirements, your application may be considered based on a minimum of 12 months of appropriate work experience evidenced with a CV and reference.
  • AU also offer this course with an additional foundation year for those who need extra support when starting their degree studies.

Course fee

International FeeFee
fee per level:£5500
UK FeeFee
fee per level:£6,935

Please note: Fees quoted relate to the intake that you enrol on (i.e. when you start your course), NOT your application date.

English Proficiency

  • IELTS 6.0 (no less than 5.5 in any element); or TOEFL iBT 80; or equivalent
  • Alternatively, evidence you have previously studied in English, such as a letter to show that the Medium of Instruction was in English can be accepted.

AU also offer an internal English test for applicants who are unable to provide the above evidence of English proficiency.

Before you start studying

Whilst you can read your study materials on your smart phone or tablet, to make the most of your learning experience, you will need access to a laptop or computer (AU recommend one running the latest version of Windows), and a good stable internet connection.

Course details and modules

Your course modules will illustrate how human resource management and psychology are two sides of the same coin – one looks at human behaviour from an organisational level, while the other at an individual one. You’ll have the opportunity to explore both of these disciplines in detail, including the psychological principles underpinning human resource management, employee engagement and performance, and overall business success.

How do Arden University assess students?

AU assess students using diverse methods that go beyond traditional exams, especially in postgraduate certificate programs. Instead of exams, these programs employ practical, real-world assessments tailored to meet individual needs and help students develop transferable skills for their future careers. These assessments may include:

  • Essays: Developing critical thinking and analytical writing skills.
  • Consultancy Reports: Addressing real-world challenges with professional insights.
  • Recorded Presentations: Enhancing communication and presentation abilities.
  • Case Studies: Applying theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios.
  • E-Portfolios: Showcasing personal and academic achievements through organized digital collections.
  • Visual Research: Combining creativity and analytical skills to present research visually.

This approach ensures that students gain valuable, hands-on experience relevant to their career goals.

Modules

You have 3-9 years to complete this course, meaning you can take up to 3 years to complete each level. Most of AU students, however, aim to complete the course within 3-6 years.

Level 4

  • Introduction to Studying Psychology (20 credits)
  • Contemporary Business Environment (20 credits)
  • Marketing Dynamics (20 credits)
  • Social Psychology (20 credits)
  • People Management (20 credits)
  • Technology & Innovation (20 credits)

Level 5

  • Coaching Psychology (20 credits)
  • Business Start-up (20 credits)
  • Consumer Insight (20 credits)
  • People Analytics (20 credits)
  • Occupational Psychology (20 credits)
  • Resourcing & Talent Management (20 credits)

Level 6

  • Project Management (20 credits)
  • Future Leaders & Talent Management (20 credits)
  • Managing Performance and Reward (20 credits)
  • Cyberpsychology (20 credits)
  • Political Psychology (20 credits)
  • Independent Study (20 credits)

Career prospects

Perhaps you have a strong idea of where you want to go with your degree, or perhaps you’re still a little unsure. Don’t worry if you’re still weighing up your future career options. AU prepare you with a range of advanced multidisciplinary skills that employers from a variety of organisations will value, enhancing your career options wherever they might lie.

What can I do after Arden University?

The real-world insight and practical workplace skills gained on your course will give you an edge across two of today’s most in-demand sectors. By mastering these highly valued skills, you’ll have everything you need to enter the role of your choice once you graduate. Some of the roles you might consider include:

  • HR
  • Office Manager
  • Training and Developing
  • Business Advisor
  • Careers advisor
  • Life Coach
  • Management Consultant
  • Mediator

What will the BA (Hons) Human Resource Management and Psychology do for me?

Your course will focus strongly on real-world practice, giving you the opportunity to apply what you learn to real HRM and psychology scenarios, and all the skills you need to maximise your career options. Studying this course with us is your opportunity to:

  • Gain in-depth knowledge of HRM management and psychology theory and practice.
  • Develop a critical appreciation of the role of human behaviour in HRM and everyday business activities. 
  • Critically analyse and reflect upon contemporary issues in workplace practices.
  • Apply your knowledge and experience to real-world scenarios.

Online learning

How does it work?

Studying this course online gives you the ultimate in convenience. You can enrol with Arden from anywhere in the world and study your degree from the comfort of home, without the requirement to attend classes in a physical location.  

AU online students study their degree through ilearn, Arden’s university campus in the cloud. ilearn provides everything you need to study at University. It offers an integrated virtual learning experience, including your virtual classroom, lecture theatre, and access to AU Library Portal. The portal includes an extensive digital library including thousands of journal titles, eBooks, and academic and industry databases which you can use to research your assignments and projects. All of these materials are provided to you free of charge, and contain all the research information you’ll need to complete your degree with us.

ilearn is also integrated with Zoom, making it easier to chat with your course tutor during your scheduled seminar sessions. You can even integrate AU study materials into your Kindle, making it possible to study wherever you have you Kindle handy. 

Studying online doesn’t mean studying alone. As well as receiving regular feedback and guidance from your course tutor, you’ll be studying with likeminded students who you can meet with through AU Unitu community, and you’ll have access to community message boards to discuss your course and the topics being raised within it. Arden have even set up community boards embedded into each of the course modules so you can have discussions with your tutor and classmates on the topics you’re currently learning. 

Online learning students resident in the UK can apply for a Tuition Fee loan to pay for their course. If you cannot attend your course in person because of a disability, you may also be entitled to a Maintenance Loan to cover living expenses. If you’re a student from Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland you can find information about obtaining a student loan to cover your costs from your student finance body.

Introducing your Digital Backpack

Once you’ve enrolled on your Human Resource Management and Psychology degree with Arden you’ll get access to your Digital Backpack, a toolkit of digital resources Arden have put together to help you succeed during your time studying with us.
 
Here are some of the digital resources you’ll have available throughout your course:

  • Office 365 subscription
  • Integrated zoom video conferencing
  • Careers support available through Arden Futures, your careers platform, to help you throughout your career journey whether you are a Career Starter, Changer or Developer
  • Free online access to AU Library Portal, which includes thousands of eBooks and journals, as well as industry databases which Arden have carefully hand-picked to support your studies – all yours for free while you study with us.
  • Subscription to Togetherall for an abundance of mental health support