Human Resource Management MA – 2023
I was attracted by the Human Resource Management MA at Westminster as it was CIPD accredited, and the structure allowed students the liberty to choose from a wide range of course electives that aligned with their professional interests.
Why did you choose the University of Westminster?
This is my second experience studying at the University of Westminster. I studied here for my Master's degree in journalism and I enjoyed the course and my experience. When I decided to switch careers to Human Resource Management, the University of Westminster seemed like the natural choice. I was attracted to the Human Resource Management MA as it was CIPD- accredited and the structure allowed students the liberty to choose from a wide range of course electives that aligned with their professional interests.
How has your experience been studying in London?
I have had a nice experience studying in London and being here has given me the opportunity to meet people from diverse professional paths. I like that the campus is central and commuting into London every day feels great. The experience here has led me to connect with several professionals in the field of HR and I have learnt so much about the HR profession and its practice.
What have you particularly enjoyed about your course?
I have quite enjoyed studying here. I liked that I was registered by the university to become a student member of the Chartered Institute for Personnel Development (CIPD) upon admission to the course. The course has challenged and pushed me to go beyond my limits and as someone with no previous experience in HR, I have learnt so much about recruitment, selection and how to handle individual differences at the workplace. I have enjoyed learning from other students on the course, some of whom have years of experience in HR and have been willing to share their wealth of knowledge with me. I have also had the opportunity to participate in several skills-based workshops aimed at developing my managerial skills, handling discipline and understanding unconscious bias in recruitment and selection. I also like that lectures are often recorded and that helps me refer to them when needed during my personal study time.
How have you found academic support as part of your studies?
I have had support through lecturers and academic tutors, who have given me the opportunity to ask questions and receive feedback on issues that might have been unclear to me. I have also found that being taught by accomplished HR professionals has been of immense advantage to me because I have developed creative practical and applicable skills in HR.
Are there any stand-out facilities associated with your course?
The course provided me with free subscription access to several journals, newspapers and HR industry-specific websites that have helped me during my study. I also have the opportunity to be part of the annual HRM conference, which will give me the chance to hear from experts and HR professionals.
Tell us about your experience of using the University Careers and Employability Service
I have been able to partake in employability events at the university and I got a job at the University as a Research Intern on a research project with the Pedagogies for Social Justice.
Tell us about any activities that you have undertaken outside of your course
In my first semester, I became the course representative for my cohort, and I have helped my fellow students handle any concerns and questions they had. I also liaised between my fellow students and the teaching team. I was chosen as the school representative for the School of Organisations, Economy and Society, and I have worked in conjunction with the school to represent the views and opinions of students in partnership with the University to create a meaningful educational experience.
What would your advice be to someone considering studying at Westminster?
It is an opportunity for them to explore and learn about the HR industry and I would advise them to make use of all the academic resources available to them and to take advantage of the employability and career events organised by the University. This course will help them develop and learn skills that will make them employable after their degree. And it will lay the foundation for their career in human resource management.
What's the best aspect of being a University of Westminster student?
The best thing about being a student at the university is the quality of education I am receiving and the job opportunities available after I graduate.