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PDA Human Resource Management: An Introduction

The Professional Development Award (PDA) in Human Resource Management: An Introduction, is designed to equip you with the essential knowledge and skills needed to navigate the highly competitive and constantly evolving business industry.

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  • Tuition fees: Home £300 / RUK £1,200
  • Programme level: SCQF Level 7
  • Start date: January, September
  • Study mode: Part-time
  • Duration: One Semester

What will I study?

Begin your journey with the Professional Development Award (PDA) in Human Resource Management, designed to transform your understanding and application of HR practices in the modern business environment. This programme equips you with the essential tools to navigate the complexities of human resources, focusing on the development of practical skills that are crucial for effective personnel management.

Gain a competitive edge with our comprehensive approach that addresses the latest trends and challenges in the HR field. Whether you are new to human resources or looking to enhance your existing skills, this programme offers a dynamic blend of theory and practical application, preparing you for strategic roles within any organisation.

Experience learning that transcends traditional boundaries, with a curriculum that emphasises real-world application and results-driven outcomes. By the end of this programme, you will be well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to the HR functions of your organisation, enhancing both your career prospects and your company’s performance.

Course Handbook

Programme information

Entry requirements

  • 2 Highers or equivalent and National 5 Maths or equivalent
  • Relevant National Qualifications or National Qualification Group Awards at SCQF level 5 or 6

Applicants with no formal qualifications are encouraged to apply and may be asked to attend an interview. 

This programme may be suitable if you are:

  • A school leaver
  • An adult returner to education
  • Have relevant work experience, but no formal qualifications

English Language requirements 

Teaching takes place solely in English and you must demonstrate that their English language proficiency is at a level that will allow you to follow your intended programme successfully.

If English is not your first language you must hold a qualification as evidence of your English language skills. Full details of the qualifications we accept, can be found here.

Student Visa requirements for study in the UK

The UK Government approves certain English language qualifications as being Secure English Language Tests (SELT). These meet the government’s requirements for visa applications.

Al-Maktoum College will accept the following:

  • IELTS for UKVI or IELTS Life Skills
  • LanguageCert – B2 or equivalent

SELT’s can only be sat at approved test centres. A list of all the approved test centres is available on GOV.UK

The list of approved English language tests has been assessed as meeting Home Office requirements under the secure English language testing arrangements. Only those tests and test levels specified are approved. If you intend to use an English language test in your immigration or nationality application you must take one of the tests on the list.

You should make sure the test that you book is the one approved for the SELT.

 

Full entry requirement information can be found here

The qualification is aimed at a variety of learners, for example, those already working in an HR discipline, those who carry out HR functions in their jobs or those with a general interest in the subject area. The qualification may also be suited to learners who have completed an academic course and are looking to enhance their understanding of HRM with a view of making a career in this discipline.

Teaching

Classes are made up of lectures, seminars and tutorials. There will be six hours teaching per week. You will be expected to undertake additional independent study including reading, homework or exercises which will be assigned by your lecturers. Therefore, for each semester there will be approximately 6 hours per week for teaching and 6 hours per week for independent study tasks.

Assessment

The design principles encourage a holistic approach to assessment. In addition to traditional assessments such as reports, essays and case studies, innovative arrangements also let learners use ICT for providing their evidence and other methods such as group or collaboration assessment. Assessment exemplars are provided for exemplification for all mandatory units. Assessment exemplars are accessible via the secure website which is available to centres via their SQA co-ordinator.

You should apply directly using the College online application system and your application will usually be assessed within 3 working days. We my contact you to provide further information or to invite you to a short informal interview.

Please make sure you have the following information before starting your application:

  • Academic transcripts and qualification certificates
  • Proof of English language proficiency (if required)
  • Passport details
  • Referee details

We consider all aspects of the application: academic qualifications, personal statement and references.

All correspondence will be sent from admissions@almcollege.ac.uk after an application of study has been submitted and you should direct any questions there.

Pathways

Successful completion of the PDA will provide learners with a foundation for further HRM units at more advanced SCQF levels and will also provide learners with transferable skills to add value in similar career disciplines. Students who complete the PDA in HRM might be interested in progressing onto the HNC in HRM or the HNC Business, as the PDA framework is made up of existing mandatory units from HNC Human Resource Management which are optional units within the HNC Business Framework.

Unit information

Human Resource Management: Introduction

This introductory unit is intended for students who plan to pursue an extended course of study in Human Resource Management (HRM), or who are considering a career in this discipline. It is also suitable if you wish to gain a holistic overview of how human resource management can add value to an organisation. It is designed to develop knowledge of the role of human resource management as a key function within organisations and to develop an understanding of the factors of change that have shaped and continue to influence the discipline of human resource management.

Interviewing: Skills and Practice

This unit is designed to enable you to apply the knowledge, skills and practice required to conduct effective interviews in a range of contexts. It is aimed at students who have current experience of working in a position with human resource management responsibilities or who are returning to human resource management after a break. It is also suitable for those who do not presently have current human resource management experience but have aspirations of taking up a human resource management role in the future or to successfully conduct interviews in another work place role. Successful completion of this unit will provide a foundation for further human resource management units at more advanced SCQF levels.

Recruitment, Selection and Induction

This unit is designed to provide an introduction to the recruitment, selection and induction process. It will provide you with the knowledge and skills to enable you to effectively contribute to each stage of the process.

What our students say

There are no limits at the Al-Maktoum College. If you are looking for a bespoke and outstanding learning experience, and a College that values your time, your commitment and supports you to achieve the very best of yourself, then, think or look no further.

Amina Business Student

To anyone who is considering studying at Al-Maktoum College, I would encourage you to go for it. You will be glad you did. Not only will you receive a high level of teaching but you will be supported and valued along the way. Alm College is very accommodating and strives to ensure the students have the best experience and receive the best education possible.

Jaber Business Student
Pictured: Hamza

My overall student experience with the College has been really educative and exciting. I can boldly say that joining Alm College has been the best decision I have made for my education so far. Alm College has become a second family to me.

Hamza Business Student
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