Human Resource Management (Dubai) MSc

You will be engaged with critical thinking and become a more ethically aware and morally responsible manager, employee and citizen, equipped to promote good people management ideas and practices in workplaces and wider society. 

Course structure

This course will run over 12 months in a full-time-mode or 24 months in a part-time mode.

It equips graduates with critical thinking skills to become reflective, evidence-led practitioners and experts in the world of work. By integrating academic theory with real-life practice, we ensure our students gain a comprehensive understanding of effective people management.

• Gain critical insights into people management and employment relationships within a comprehensive national and global context
• Birmingham Business School hosts a leading research-led HRM teaching group and the Work Inclusivity Research Centre (WIRC)
• Modules cover theory and practice with guest speakers and practical exercises, as well as research-led academic insights and perspectives.

• Taught modules – these include lectures, seminars, class discussions, readings, case studies, media and guest speakers
• Assessments - these will include formal exams, essays, group work and oral presentations
• Dissertation Project - choose from either a company-based dissertation or a traditional dissertation. The dissertation incorporates a training programme in research methods and critical appraisal of research approaches used in conducting HRM & ER research

The optional module information listed for this programme is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available, we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.

The course comprises of 180 credits, taught through a series of 20 credit modules and a 60 credit Dissertation.

2026/27 Session

The following must be taken:

In order to be considered, applicants will have or should be expecting to achieve an Honours degree (2:1 or higher) or postgraduate diploma from a UK university (or overseas equivalent) in any subject. Applicants who demonstrate being able to exceed the minimum entry requirements will be given preference.

English language requirements

If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification or a Presessional English course.

For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:

• TOEFL iBT taken before January 2026: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing
• TOEFL iBT taken from January 2026: 4.5 Overall with no less than 4.5 in any 2 skills and 4 in the other two skills
• Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills
• Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component
• LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 33 in each skill

Paying your tuition fees

Tuition fees are payable for each year of your programme. To help you manage the cost of study, you can pay fees in full or in three instalments per academic year.

To secure your place, you must pay a non-refundable tuition fee deposit of AED 5,000 by the deadline stated in your Conditional Offer. This deposit will be deducted from your tuition fees.

To avoid delays, please ensure all required documents are included with your application.

Find guidance on how to apply, key steps in the process and answers to frequently asked questions.

Choosing to study with the University of Birmingham Dubai is an exciting decision and you may have many questions on what to do next. Find out more about how to apply.

Careers Network

In a competitive global market, you need to be ready for work before you graduate. At the University of Birmingham Dubai, our careers services will help you plan and achieve your ambitions. Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network Dubai information, advice, and guidance service offers support to help you identify your options, develop your skills and gain access to opportunities that propel you towards your career goal.

Our state-of-the-art Dubai campus, with its iconic buildings overlooking stunning parkland and friendly community, will quickly make you feel at home in the UAE's second city. Expect plenty of exciting activities to get involved in outside of your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.

Accommodation

Coming to the University of Birmingham Dubai to study might be your first time living away from home. Our student accommodation partners allow you to enjoy your independence in safe, welcoming, and sociable surroundings.

Living in Dubai

Enrich your life with endless attractions, entertainment and lifestyle opportunities. In just over 50 years, Dubai has transformed itself from a tiny settlement to a glistening city and world-class destination. It’s no wonder our students fall in love with the city.

Campus life

Our state-of-the-art Dubai campus is where our diverse community comes together, providing a home for up to 3,000 students to learn, relax, and socialise.

Student support

Whoever you are and wherever you come from, we are committed to providing the best possible support to all of our students, both before you start and throughout your time on campus, so that you can get the most out of your university experience.

Take a virtual tour

Explore our Dubai campus from wherever you are. Get a feel for the wide range of modern spaces and state-of-the-art facilities.