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Human Resource Management Subjects & Syllabus

Human Resource Management Subjects & Syllabus

Updated on 10 December, 2024

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• 11 min read

Table of Contents

Core Subjects in Human Resource Management
Elective Subjects in Human Resource Management
Overview of Human Resource Management Syllabus
HRM Subjects for Undergraduate Programs
HRM Subjects for Postgraduate Programs
Eligibility Criteria (UG & PG) for Human Resource Management in India
Industry-Specific Applications of HRM Subjects
Career Opportunities After Studying HRM
How upGrad Can Help You Succeed in HRM
Skill-Based Training in HRM Courses

Who ensures employees feel valued and motivated at work? Human Resource Management (HRM) focuses on managing the most critical asset of any organization—its people. From hiring the right talent to ensuring their growth and satisfaction, HR professionals handle it all.

What does HRM involve?

Recruiting and training employees.
Solving workplace issues and building strong teams.
Ensuring compliance with labor laws.
Keeping employees motivated and engaged.

Is HRM for you?

Do you enjoy working with people and helping them succeed?
Are you good at solving problems and staying organized?
If yes, a career in HRM could be a great fit.

The Human Resource Management syllabus teaches skills like leadership, employee management, and organizational behavior. It also includes practical learning through internships and projects to prepare you for real-world challenges.

Let’s explore the subjects you’ll study and how they can shape your HRM career!

Core Subjects in Human Resource Management

The core subjects in HRM focus on building a strong foundation in managing people and processes within organizations. These topics prepare you to handle everything from recruitment to employee development with confidence.

Compensation Management
- Learn how to create fair salary structures and benefits packages.
- Understand how to design bonuses, retirement plans, and insurance.
- Focus on making sure pay aligns with industry standards and employee needs.
HR Management
- Explore how to attract, hire, and onboard new talent.
- Dive into workforce planning and compliance with labor laws.
- Understand policies for employee engagement and workplace ethics.
Performance Management
- Learn how to set goals and measure employee performance.
- Conduct effective performance reviews and offer feedback.
- Design plans to help employees improve and grow in their roles.
Training and Development
- Identify skill gaps in your team and plan training programs.
- Learn how to design and deliver impactful workshops.
- Monitor how well your training sessions improve performance.
Organizational Change and Development
- Manage changes like company restructuring or new systems.
- Build a strong workplace culture during transitions.
- Use tools to measure and improve overall organizational performance.

Elective Subjects in Human Resource Management

Electives in HRM allow you to specialize in areas you’re passionate about. These subjects help you deepen your skills and stand out in specific HR fields.

Diversity and Inclusion
- Learn how to build workplaces that welcome people from all backgrounds.
- Focus on hiring practices and team activities that encourage inclusivity.
- Address unconscious bias and promote equality across the organization.
HR Technology
- Master HR tools like Workday, SAP, and PeopleSoft to automate HR processes.
- Learn HR analytics and see how it can guide smarter decision-making.
- Use technology to manage payroll, attendance, and performance tracking.
Leadership Development
- Help identify and train future leaders in your company.
- Learn how to coach employees to take on strategic roles.
- Design programs that build leadership and decision-making skills.
Recruitment Analytics
- Use data to find the right candidates quickly and effectively.
- Learn how predictive tools can improve hiring decisions.
- Understand metrics like cost per hire and time to fill a role.
Employee Relations
- Learn how to handle workplace conflicts and resolve employee issues.
- Build trust between employees and management through clear communication.
- Focus on strategies that improve satisfaction and reduce turnover.

Overview of Human Resource Management Syllabus

HRM courses teach you how to handle workplace challenges and build strong teams. The Human Resource Management syllabus is divided into semesters, starting with the basics and progressing to advanced HR topics. Here’s how the program is structured.

Semester 1: Basics of HR

The first semester focuses on understanding organizations and building communication skills.

Subject	What You’ll Learn	Activities
Principles of Management	Learn how organizations are structured and managed	Study real-world examples of company structures
Business Communication	Develop skills for writing emails and giving presentations	Practice presentations and group discussions
Introduction to HRM	Understand the key roles of HR, like hiring and payroll	Simulate basic HR processes
Organizational Behavior	Learn how people behave in teams and workplaces	Role-play scenarios for team building
Fundamentals of Labor Laws	Understand workplace rules and employee rights	Analyze cases on labor law compliance

Semester 2: Practical HR Skills

This semester helps you gain hands-on experience in key HR tasks like recruitment and training.

Subject	What You’ll Learn	Activities
Recruitment and Selection	Learn how to post jobs, conduct interviews, and onboard employees	Conduct mock interviews
Training and Development	Create training programs to improve employee skills	Design and deliver a training plan
Performance Management	Understand how to evaluate and improve employee performance	Simulate performance reviews
HR Technology	Explore tools used for managing employee data and tasks	Practice with tools like SAP or Oracle

Semester 3: Advanced HR Topics

You’ll focus on leadership and strategic HR planning by the third semester.

Subject	What You’ll Learn	Activities
Strategic HRM	Plan for long-term workforce needs and talent retention	Work on strategic HR planning projects
Compensation and Benefits	Learn to create fair salary and benefit structures	Design realistic compensation models
Employee Relations	Manage workplace conflicts and improve employee engagement	Draft engagement surveys and action plans
International HRM	Handle HR issues in global organizations	Analyze case studies on cross-cultural HR policies

Semester 4: Specialization and Practice

The final semester focuses on preparing you for real-world HR roles through projects and internships.

Subject	What You’ll Learn	Activities
HR Analytics	Use data to make better HR decisions	Create reports using tools like Tableau
Organizational Development	Plan and manage organizational changes	Simulate change management scenarios
Internship/Capstone Project	Apply all your learning in a real-world setting	Gain hands-on experience in HR roles
Dissertation/Research Work	Research a specialized HR topic	Write and present your findings

HRM Subjects for Undergraduate Programs

A bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Management focuses on basic concepts, helping students understand how organizations manage and develop people. It’s ideal for anyone starting their journey in HR.

Subject	Key Topics Covered	Purpose
Business Communication	Writing reports, professional emails, and presentation skills	Helps students learn effective communication in the workplace.
Fundamentals of HRM	HR functions like recruitment, training, payroll	Introduces basic HR principles and practices.
Team Building and Leadership	Leadership styles, team dynamics, conflict resolution	Develops skills to lead teams and enhance collaboration.
Organizational Behavior	Workplace culture, employee motivation, conflict management	Teaches how individuals behave in teams and organizations.
Labor Laws and Industrial Relations	Employee rights, workplace compliance, union-management relations	Equips students with legal knowledge and compliance essentials.
Recruitment and Selection	Job posting, candidate assessment, onboarding	Focuses on hiring strategies and evaluation techniques.
Performance Management	Employee evaluation methods, goal setting, feedback systems	Teaches methods to assess and improve employee performance.

HRM Subjects for Postgraduate Programs

A master’s degree in HRM dives deeper into advanced topics. It prepares students for strategic roles and equips them to handle complex organizational challenges.

Subject	Key Topics Covered	Purpose
Strategic HRM (SHRM)	Workforce planning, talent retention, succession planning	Teaches how HR aligns with long-term business goals.
HR Analytics	Data-driven decision-making, tools like Tableau, Power BI	Helps students analyze HR metrics to improve decision-making.
Organizational Development	Change management, restructuring, employee engagement	Focuses on enhancing organizational efficiency and effectiveness.
Compensation and Benefits	Salary structures, benefits, employee retention strategies	Equips students to design competitive compensation packages.
Employee Engagement	Well-being initiatives, productivity improvement	Prepares students to foster positive workplace culture.
Training and Development	Upskilling techniques, program design, measuring outcomes	Focuses on employee skill enhancement and training effectiveness.
International HRM	Cross-cultural management, expatriate policies, global labor laws	Prepares students for HR roles in multinational organizations.
Internships and Dissertation Projects	Practical exposure through internships, research in specialized HR areas	Provides hands-on learning and an opportunity to explore specific interests.

Eligibility Criteria (UG & PG) for Human Resource Management in India

If you’re planning to study HRM in India, here’s what you need to know about the eligibility requirements for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

Undergraduate (UG) HRM Programs

A bachelor’s degree in HRM introduces you to the basics of managing people, organizations, and resources.

Educational Qualification:
- Completion of 10+2 or equivalent from a recognized board.
- Open to students from all streams (Arts, Commerce, Science).
Minimum Marks:
- Most institutions require at least 50% aggregate marks in 12th grade.
- Relaxation in marks may apply for reserved categories (SC/ST/OBC).
Entrance Tests:
- Direct admission based on 12th marks is common.
- Some universities may conduct entrance exams, e.g., DUET (Delhi University).

Postgraduate (PG) HRM Programs

A postgraduate program in HRM, like an MBA or PGDM, is designed to prepare you for leadership roles in HR.

Educational Qualification:
- A recognized bachelor's degree in any discipline.
- Minimum 50% aggregate marks in graduation (varies by institution).
Entrance Exams:
- National tests like CAT, MAT, XAT, CMAT, or GMAT.
- Institute-specific exams (e.g., TISSNET for TISS, XAT for XLRI).
Work Experience (Preferred):
- Executive programs may require 2–3 years of professional experience.
- Freshers are eligible for full-time MBA programs.
Additional Rounds:
- Some institutes conduct group discussions, written ability tests (WAT), or personal interviews.

Key Skills for HRM Programs

While meeting the academic criteria is essential, having these skills can make your journey smoother:

Communication Skills: Essential for managing people and building relationships.
Analytical Thinking: Needed for problem-solving and decision-making.
Organizational Abilities: Crucial for managing recruitment, payroll, and compliance.

Interpersonal Skills: Helps in resolving conflicts and fostering a positive work environment.

Industry-Specific Applications of HRM Subjects

HR has a distinct role in every industry, tailored to its unique needs. Whether it’s retaining top tech talent or managing large healthcare teams, HR ensures organizations run smoothly. Here’s a closer look at how HR works in different sectors.

HR in IT and Tech

Retention Focus: Tech companies face high employee turnover. HR teams work on strategies to keep employees motivated and engaged.
Skill Development: Upskilling programs are key to helping employees keep up with rapid tech changes.
Team Planning: HR ensures tech teams are structured to handle demanding projects effectively.

HR in Healthcare

Mass Hiring: Hospitals need large teams of doctors, nurses, and staff. HR ensures smooth recruitment processes.
Compliance: Healthcare HR ensures facilities meet strict legal and ethical standards.
Employee Well-Being: HR focuses on reducing burnout and supporting healthcare workers in stressful environments.

Career Opportunities After Studying HRM

Behind every successful organization is a strong HR team that manages talent, resolves conflicts, and builds a positive work culture. With an MBA or certification in HRM, you step into a world of opportunities that shapes businesses and empowers employees.

Let’s explore the career options waiting for you in HRM.

1. HR Generalist

Manages day-to-day HR functions like payroll, compliance, and employee relations.
Acts as the go-to person for HR-related queries and concerns.
Salary Range: ₹3–7 LPA (Entry-Level), ₹8–15 LPA (Mid-Level), ₹18–30 LPA (Senior).

2. Recruitment Specialist

Focuses on hiring top talent by sourcing, screening, and onboarding candidates.
Builds recruitment strategies to meet organizational needs.
Salary Range: ₹3–6 LPA (Entry-Level), ₹7–12 LPA (Mid-Level), ₹15–25 LPA (Senior).

3. Training and Development Manager

Designs and delivers employee training programs.
Enhances employee skills and career growth within the organization.
Salary Range: ₹5–10 LPA (Entry-Level), ₹12–20 LPA (Mid-Level), ₹20–35 LPA (Senior).

4. HR Consultant

Advises companies on HR policies, compliance, and workforce planning.
Works on short-term or long-term HR projects.
Salary Range: ₹5–12 LPA (Entry-Level), ₹15–25 LPA (Mid-Level), ₹30–50 LPA (Senior).

5. Compensation and Benefits Specialist

Designs competitive salary structures and employee benefits.
Ensures compliance with labor laws and tax regulations.
Salary Range: ₹4–8 LPA (Entry-Level), ₹10–18 LPA (Mid-Level), ₹20–40 LPA (Senior).

6. HR Analytics Specialist

Analyzes workforce data to drive better decision-making in hiring and retention.
Uses tools like Tableau and SAP to identify trends.
Salary Range: ₹5–8 LPA (Entry-Level), ₹12–20 LPA (Mid-Level), ₹25–40 LPA (Senior).

7. Talent Acquisition Specialist

Develops recruitment strategies for specialized roles.
Collaborates with department heads to fulfill hiring needs.
Salary Range: ₹3–7 LPA (Entry-Level), ₹8–15 LPA (Mid-Level), ₹18–25 LPA (Senior).

8. Employee Relations Manager

Resolves conflicts and promotes a positive work environment.
Handles grievances and ensures compliance with workplace policies.
Salary Range: ₹5–10 LPA (Entry-Level), ₹12–18 LPA (Mid-Level), ₹20–35 LPA (Senior).

9. Organizational Development Specialist

Focuses on improving organizational processes and performance.
Designs programs to boost employee engagement and productivity.
Salary Range: ₹6–10 LPA (Entry-Level), ₹12–22 LPA (Mid-Level), ₹25–40 LPA (Senior).

10. Payroll Manager

Manages employee salaries, tax deductions, and benefits.
Ensures timely and accurate payroll processing.
Salary Range: ₹4–8 LPA (Entry-Level), ₹10–18 LPA (Mid-Level), ₹20–35 LPA (Senior).

Industries Hiring HR Professionals

IT and Technology: Google, Microsoft, Infosys.
Consulting: Deloitte, KPMG, McKinsey.
Manufacturing: Tata, Mahindra, Larsen & Toubro.
Healthcare: Apollo, Fortis.
E-commerce: Amazon, Flipkart.

How upGrad Can Help You Succeed in HRM

upGrad, India’s leading online education platform, offers comprehensive support to help you achieve your career goals in HRM. Whether you're a fresher or a working professional, here’s how upGrad stands out:

Why Choose upGrad?

Placement Support:

Access over 5,000 job openings every month through upGrad’s career portal.
Prepare for interviews with mock sessions, mentorship, and resume-building tools.
Get personalized career counseling to make informed career decisions.

Learning Support:

Industry mentors and teaching assistants provide one-on-one guidance.
Weekly live doubt-clearing sessions ensure you stay on track.
Detailed feedback on assignments to improve your skills.

Track Record That Speaks for Itself:

50% average salary hike for HRM graduates.
400% maximum salary hike recorded.
₹73 LPA highest salary offered to learners.

Key Features of upGrad Programs:

100% Online Programs.
Live Interactive Sessions with Industry Experts.
Comprehensive Career Assistance.
Weekly Doubt-Clearing Sessions.

Featured HRM Programs on upGrad

Professional Certificate - HR Management & Analytics (6 months)
- Learn from IIM Kozhikode faculty.
- Master HR practices, workforce planning, and talent sourcing analytics.
- Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree + 2 years of work experience.
Global MBA - HR (18 months)
- Covers organizational behavior, workforce planning, business law, and ethics.
- Dual credentials: MBA from Liverpool Business School & PGP in Management from IMT Ghaziabad.

Explore these programs today to start or advance your HRM career.

🎓 Get Free Career Counseling
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Skill-Based Training in HRM Courses

HRM courses are designed to give you the skills needed to handle real-world situations in managing people and organizations. Here’s what you’ll learn:

Skill	What You’ll Learn	How It’s Taught
Leadership	Inspire and guide teams to achieve goals.	Leadership simulations and team-building exercises.
Negotiation	Resolve conflicts and secure agreements confidently.	Role-playing and mock negotiations.
Team Management	Organize and manage diverse teams for high performance.	Case studies on team dynamics and live projects.
Communication	Build strong relationships through clear communication.	Interpersonal skill workshops and presentations.
Problem-Solving	Tackle workplace challenges with practical solutions.	Problem-solving simulations and real-world case studies.
HR Technology	Use HR tools like payroll systems and analytics software.	Hands-on training with HR software and dashboards.

Advance your career with our Popular Human Resource Courses, offering in-depth training in areas like talent acquisition, workforce planning, and employee development. Master essential HR skills and become a key player in shaping organizational success!

Explore our Popular Human Resource Courses

Professional Certificate Programme in HR Management and Analytics	Executive Post-Graduate Programme in Human Resource Management
Strategic Human Resources Leadership Cornell Certificate Program

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What qualifications do I need to enroll in an HRM course?

You typically need a bachelor’s degree in any field with a minimum of 50% marks. Some institutions may also require passing national entrance exams like CAT, MAT, or XAT.

2. Are internships mandatory in HRM programs?

Most HRM programs include internships as a core component to provide practical industry exposure and hands-on experience in HR practices.

3. Can I pursue HRM with a non-commerce background?

Yes, HRM welcomes candidates from all academic backgrounds, as it focuses more on people management skills rather than technical or commerce-specific knowledge.

4. How does HRM differ from business management?

HRM focuses on managing people, talent acquisition, training, and development. Business management covers a broader scope, including finance, marketing, and operations.

5. Do HRM courses focus on digital tools like HR software?

Yes, modern HRM courses include training on tools like SAP, Workday, and BambooHR to manage HR functions effectively.

6. Are HR certifications recognized internationally?

Many HR certifications, such as SHRM, HRCI, and CIPD, are globally recognized and enhance your career prospects worldwide.

7. Can HRM be studied as a part-time or weekend course?

Yes, several institutions offer flexible learning options, including part-time, weekend, and online HRM courses for working professionals.

8. Is prior work experience required to pursue an HRM course?

For entry-level HRM courses, work experience is not mandatory. However, advanced HRM certifications may require 1–2 years of experience.

9. What is the difference between HRM and HRD (Human Resource Development)?

HRM encompasses overall employee management, while HRD focuses specifically on employee growth, training, and skill development.

10. Are there specific certifications for HR Analytics or Payroll Management?

Yes, certifications like HR Analytics by upGrad and Payroll Certification by AAPA are available for specialized HR roles.

11. What are the best career paths after completing an HRM certification?

You can explore roles like HR Manager, Talent Acquisition Specialist, HR Analyst, Learning & Development Manager, and Payroll Manager. These roles are in demand across industries like IT, FMCG, and healthcare.

References:
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/hr-generalist-salary-SRCH_KO0,13.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/recruitment-specialist-salary-SRCH_KO0,22.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/training-and-development-manager-salary-SRCH_KO0,32.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/human-resources-consultant-salary-SRCH_KO0,26.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/compensation-and-benefits-specialist-salary-SRCH_KO0,36.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/hr-analyst-salary-SRCH_KO0,10.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/talent-acquisition-specialist-salary-SRCH_KO0,29.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/employee-relations-manager-salary-SRCH_KO0,26.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/organizational-development-specialist-salary-SRCH_KO0,37.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/payroll-manager-salary-SRCH_KO0,15.htm

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