Course overview
Interested in human resources? Wondering how HR fits into an overall organisation? Find out more in this insightful online short course.
The module provides a solid introduction to common HR terms and definitions while exploring the complexities and challenges of human resource management. You’ll also investigate global HR theories and practices, and the nature of human resources planning.
There’s a strong focus on employee management, including:
- employee rewards and recognition
- contractual obligations and employee rights
- safe employment practices
- common laws which affect HR practices
Once you’ve completed the module, you have the opportunity to study other undergraduate online short courses or progress to a full undergraduate degree.
Study method
- Online
- Blended
- In-class
Awards

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Duration study load
- 10 weeks, part-time
Entry requirements
No formal qualifications or experience is necessary.
As our online short courses are delivered in English, a high proficiency is required in this language. If English isn’t your first language, your ability should be equivalent to an IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5. Don’t worry if you don’t hold an IELTS or equivalent qualification – we offer a free online English test to assess your proficiency.
You don’t need to prove your English ability if you are a national of, or have completed a qualification equivalent to a UK degree in, any of the countries listed on our website.
Pathways
- CertHE Business and Management
- BA (Hons) Business and Management
Assessment
We’re committed to providing frequent and transparent feedback in the following ways:
- our assessment criteria are designed to be simple and transparent
- you’ll always be aware of your current provisional grade, right from the start of the programme
- you’ll be able to view your marks clearly in your grade book whenever you log onto the learning platform
- there’s a seven-day turnaround for marking and feedback on assessed work
- you’ll have regular contact with your Student Support team, with whom you can discuss any concerns as soon as they arise
Career prospects
The Human Resource Management online short course offers a whole host of opportunities. Not only will you develop your understanding of core HR principles and practices, but you’ll also get a unique insight into this key area of business.
This short online course is sometimes referred to as a micro-credential. This means that unlike some others found online, the course offers academic value. Upon completion, you’ll receive a digital certificate confirming you’ve achieved 15 academic credits at the undergraduate level. This will be beneficial whether you’re looking to go into higher education or step into your first business role.
If you wish to continue your studies and boost your prospects, you could choose to study one of our CertHE Business and Management (120 credits) or the full BA (Hons) Business and Management (360 credits).
Please note, acceptance to the BA (Hons) Business and Management is subject to meeting the entry requirements of your chosen programme.
Subjects
About University of Essex Online
University of Essex Online delivers 100% online part-time courses in business, computing, education, health, law, criminology and psychology. The qualifications we offer include CertHEs and Bachelors degrees at undergraduate level, and PG Certs, PG Dips and Masters degrees at postgraduate level, with study durations ranging from 8 months to 4 years.
We are one of the longest-running providers of 100% online degrees in the UK. All our courses are specifically designed for online delivery, combining silver-standard teaching with the latest technology and enabling you to gain a top-class education from anywhere in the world.
All our qualifications are awarded and validated by the University of Essex, an award-winning university with a 50-year heritage of teaching and research excellence. On completion of your studies, you’ll be invited to graduate at the University of Essex’s Colchester campus. You will receive the same certificate as campus-based students – your mode of study is only mentioned on your academic transcript.
Gaining an undergraduate qualification with the University of Essex Online also puts you in good stead for your career prospects. Results from their 2021 student survey showed:
- 92% of students said their course helped develop their research skills
- 89% of students say their studies fit with their future plans
- 25% of students saw their salaries increase by up to 10%