MSc (Industrial Relations and Human Resource Management)


J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics

Course overview

Shortlisted for national Postgraduate Course of the Year (Business) Award 2013

If you are interested in a career in human resource management, trade unions or management consultancy, this MSc programme is for you. You will examine the nature of work and explore industrial relations and human resource management in changing national and international markets. The focus is on the people aspect of business, exploring how the relationship between employers and employees can be managed to the advantage of both parties.


This is one of a small number of Irish programmes accredited by the CIPD. Our faculty includes leaders in the areas of human resource management, industrial relations and organisational behaviour theory. Their research ensures that the material delivered reflects the latest thinking in industry.

Key facts

Entry requirements

Successful applicants generally received a good Second Class Honours degree in business, management or a cognate discipline. Experience is also considered. A personal statement must be included with all applications. International students from non-English speaking countries must be fluent in English as demonstrated by an IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent. In addition, an interview may form part of the selection process for the programme.

Duration: 1 year, full-time

Next start date: September 2013

Average intake: 25

Closing date:

Please refer to the offer rounds/closing date webpage.


 

Mode of study: Taught

Course outline

This programme is designed to help you to develop a thorough knowledge and applied competence in the fundamentals of
industrial relations and human resource management. There are ten modules: People Management and Development,
Employee Relations, Human Resource Development, Reward Systems, Industrial Relations and Employment Law, Skills for
Business Leadership, Strategic Management, International HRM, Leadership and Change, and Research Methods.


You will also complete a minor dissertation, often within an organisation on a topic that you choose. If you are planning to
become a member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), the professional body for human resource
practitioners, you will complete a management report based on the findings in your dissertation and a professional development log.

Applications and selections

Applications are made online via The Postgraduate Applications Centre (PAC). Relevant PAC application code(s) above.

Who teaches this course?

Dr Deirdre Curran
Dr Tony Dundon
Dr Alma McCarthy
Dr Rachel Hilliard
Mr Mike Moroney
Dr Tony Royle
Ms Maureen Maloney
Professor Hugh Scullion

Requirements and assessment

Continuous assessment is a feature of each module. You will complete essays, projects and presentations working individually and in groups. Some of your work will be submitted online through blogs and wikis. There are final examinations for most modules.

PAC code

GYC02

Fees for this course

EU (Total): €6,755
 - Student levy: €224
Non-EU (Total): €13,250

Fees for courses

Current students

Siobhan Lally

MSc (Industrial Relations & Human Resource Management)

"As somebody who had completed an Arts degree, studying economics and psychological studies, I was somewhat nervous that my credentials would not be as relevant as some of my classmates. However, I feel that our diverse backgrounds often helped, rather than hindered especially with the large number of team-based assignments that were a feature of this programme. I have made some fantastic friends this year and my classmates have been a constant source of support. The course has been challenging, yet rewarding. The modules have been interesting because the lecturers focused on the practicalities of the subjects and not just the theory behind the topics. This programme requires a high level of commitment but it is worth the effort. I highly recommend the MSc (Industrial Relations & Human Resource Management) to anyone interested in this realm of study."

Deirdre Deely

MSc (Industrial Relations & Human Resource Management)

"I completed a Commerce degree in NUI Galway where I specialised in HRM. After I finished my degree, I joined a financial institution where I worked for four years. Although I enjoyed working in this sector, I still had the desire to further my education in HRM. I was fortunate enough to be granted a career break in order to continue my education. The MSc in IR & HRM is an excellent programme which enables students to develop both their academic theory and practical skills and prepares them for the world of work. The CIPD accreditation, which is becoming a necessity for individuals seeking employment in HRM, is one of the main benefits of the course and it is why this MSc is one of the most recognised in Ireland. Finally, one of the major advantages of this course is that it can be applied to a number of different careers including HR, IR, lecturing or any management position. Although it is an intense and challenging year, the long term benefits are worth it."

Denise Holland

"I was not automatically accepted into the MSc programme. Because I was a mature student, and my background was not ‘typical’, the Programme Director requested an interview. Therefore, I had time to reflect on what I wanted to get out of the course. I was excited by the prospect of learning. I wanted to be challenged, engaged and drawn into a world focused on human resources. The MSc delivered everything I expected and more. It was very hard work with very little down time. I was challenged at every level from time management to academic writing to team building. Yet, it was one of the most enjoyable experiences of my life. So if you are willing to leave your ego and attitude at the door and are hungry to learn then come on in with an open mind and heart and you will have the best year yet!"

Download JE Cairnes postgrad brochure