ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Human Resource Management (HRM)
The ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Human Resource Management (HRM) is a comprehensive two-year, 240-credit programme designed for learners seeking to establish or advance their careers in HR and people management. This qualification provides a robust foundation in modern HR practices, combining strategic insight with practical application, and is suitable for both freshers entering the field and professionals aiming to enhance their expertise.
Learners gain a deep understanding of core HR areas including recruitment and selection, performance management, employee engagement, training and development, organisational behaviour, and employment law. The programme equips learners with critical skills in strategic planning, workforce analytics, leadership, and communication, enabling them to contribute effectively to organisational success.
Completion of this diploma opens a wide range of career opportunities, from HR executive and recruitment specialist roles to HR consultancy and management positions across industries. Learners will also develop the ability to implement HR policies, manage workplace challenges, and support organisational growth through effective human capital strategies.
The programme emphasises professional readiness and real-world application, combining classroom learning, online resources, case studies, practical exercises, and interactive projects. Learners emerge with a well-rounded skill set, capable of navigating complex HR scenarios, making informed decisions, and contributing to ethical and inclusive workplace environments.
By completing this diploma, learners not only gain technical and strategic HR expertise but also build transferable skills in leadership, problem-solving, and analytical thinking. This qualification is ideal for those aspiring to progress within HR departments, manage talent effectively, and play a pivotal role in shaping organisational culture in a global context.
Course overview
Level 5 International Diploma in Human Resource Management (HRM)
To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Human Resource Management (HRM), learner must meet the following entry requirements:
This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Human Resource Management (HRM), consists of 24 mandatory units.
Year 1 – Foundation and Core Human Resource Management (HRM)
- Foundations of Human Resource Management
- Organisational Behaviour and Workforce Dynamics
- Recruitment, Selection, and Onboarding
- Training and Development Strategies
- Performance Management and Appraisal Systems
- Employment Law and HR Compliance
- Compensation and Benefits Management
- Communication and Interpersonal Skills for HR
- Leadership Principles in HR
- Employee Engagement and Retention Strategies
- HR Information Systems and Technology
- Research Methods and Analytical Skills for HR
Year 2 – Advanced Applications and Strategic Human Resource Management (HRM)
- Strategic Human Resource Management
- Talent Management and Succession Planning
- Organisational Development and Change Management
- Industrial Relations and Conflict Resolution
- Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion in the Workplace
- HR Metrics and Workforce Analytics
- Employee Wellbeing and Occupational Health
- Leadership and Decision-Making in HR
- Global Human Resource Management Practices
- HR Policy Design and Implementation
- Project Management in HR Initiatives
- Capstone Project in Human Resource Management
Learning Outcomes for the ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Human Resource Management (HRM):
Year 1 – Foundation Human Resource Management (HRM)
Foundations of Human Resource Management
- Understand core HR functions, principles, and strategic importance in organisations.
- Recognise the role of HR in supporting organisational goals and workforce planning.
- Analyse HR policies and procedures within different organisational contexts.
- Apply foundational HR concepts to practical workplace scenarios.
Organisational Behaviour and Workforce Dynamics
- Examine individual and group behaviour in organisational settings.
- Analyse factors influencing employee motivation and performance.
- Understand the impact of organisational culture on workforce dynamics.
- Apply behavioural theories to improve team effectiveness and engagement.
Recruitment, Selection, and Onboarding
- Understand methods for attracting and selecting suitable candidates.
- Analyse recruitment strategies and their impact on organisational success.
- Develop effective onboarding and induction programmes for new employees.
- Apply legal and ethical standards throughout recruitment and selection processes.
Training and Development Strategies
- Identify learning and development needs within an organisation.
- Design training programmes that enhance employee skills and performance.
- Evaluate training effectiveness using assessment and feedback methods.
- Apply adult learning principles to workplace training initiatives.
Performance Management and Appraisal Systems
- Understand performance management frameworks and appraisal methods.
- Analyse employee performance using quantitative and qualitative metrics.
- Implement strategies to improve individual and team performance.
- Apply feedback and coaching techniques to support employee development.
Employment Law and HR Compliance
- Understand employment legislation and regulatory requirements.
- Analyse legal responsibilities for employers and employees.
- Implement HR practices that comply with national and international laws.
- Apply employment law knowledge to resolve workplace issues ethically.
Compensation and Benefits Management
- Understand remuneration strategies and reward systems.
- Analyse the impact of compensation on motivation and retention.
- Design competitive salary and benefits packages within organisational budgets.
- Apply reward management principles to align with organisational objectives.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills for HR
- Develop effective verbal and written communication in HR contexts.
- Apply active listening and conflict resolution techniques.
- Enhance negotiation and persuasion skills for workplace interactions.
- Build professional relationships to support organisational collaboration.
Leadership Principles in HR
- Understand leadership theories and styles in HR management.
- Analyse the impact of leadership on organisational culture and performance.
- Develop decision-making and problem-solving skills in HR contexts.
- Apply leadership principles to motivate, guide, and influence teams.
Employee Engagement and Retention Strategies
- Understand factors influencing employee engagement and satisfaction.
- Analyse strategies for retaining top talent and reducing turnover.
- Develop initiatives to enhance workplace motivation and loyalty.
- Apply engagement strategies aligned with organisational goals.
HR Information Systems and Technology
- Understand the role of technology in HR management and operations.
- Analyse HR data to support decision-making and workforce planning.
- Evaluate HR software systems for efficiency and effectiveness.
- Apply digital tools to improve HR processes and reporting.
Research Methods and Analytical Skills for HR
- Understand research methodologies applicable to HR studies.
- Collect, analyse, and interpret HR data for informed decisions.
- Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills through research.
- Apply analytical insights to support HR strategy and practice.
Year 2 – Advanced Applications and Strategic Human Resource Management (HRM)
Strategic Human Resource Management
- Understand strategic HRM frameworks and organisational alignment.
- Analyse HR strategies to support business objectives and growth.
- Develop workforce planning and talent management initiatives.
- Apply strategic thinking to complex HR scenarios.
Talent Management and Succession Planning
- Identify high-potential employees and develop career pathways.
- Analyse succession planning methods for leadership continuity.
- Design talent development strategies to meet organisational needs.
- Apply talent management practices to enhance employee performance.
Organisational Development and Change Management
- Understand change management models and organisational development principles.
- Analyse organisational challenges and implement improvement strategies.
- Develop interventions to manage change effectively.
- Apply OD practices to enhance organisational effectiveness.
Industrial Relations and Conflict Resolution
- Understand industrial relations frameworks and employment relations.
- Analyse workplace conflicts and their impact on productivity.
- Develop strategies to manage disputes and negotiate solutions.
- Apply conflict resolution techniques to maintain positive workplace relations.
Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion in the Workplace
- Understand principles of workplace diversity and inclusion.
- Analyse challenges related to equality and discrimination.
- Develop policies and initiatives to promote an inclusive environment.
- Apply DEI strategies to improve organisational culture and engagement.
HR Metrics and Workforce Analytics
- Understand key HR metrics and performance indicators.
- Analyse workforce data to identify trends and insights.
- Develop data-driven HR strategies and solutions.
- Apply HR analytics to support decision-making and organisational planning.
Employee Wellbeing and Occupational Health
- Understand employee wellbeing and occupational health principles.
- Analyse factors affecting physical, mental, and social health at work.
- Develop initiatives to promote a safe and healthy workplace.
- Apply wellbeing strategies to improve employee satisfaction and productivity.
Leadership and Decision-Making in HR
- Understand leadership roles in guiding HR strategy and operations.
- Analyse decision-making processes and their organisational impact.
- Develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills for HR leaders.
- Apply leadership principles to manage teams and drive results.
Global Human Resource Management Practices
- Understand international HRM practices and cross-cultural workforce management.
- Analyse global employment trends, labour laws, and regulations.
- Develop strategies for managing international talent and mobility.
- Apply global HR practices to enhance organisational competitiveness.
HR Policy Design and Implementation
- Understand the principles of HR policy creation and governance.
- Analyse organisational needs to develop effective HR policies.
- Evaluate the impact of policies on employee behaviour and performance.
- Apply policy frameworks to ensure legal compliance and operational efficiency.
Project Management in HR Initiatives
- Understand project management principles and methodologies.
- Plan, execute, and evaluate HR projects effectively.
- Analyse project risks, resources, and timelines for successful delivery.
- Apply project management skills to improve HR initiatives and outcomes.
Capstone Project in Human Resource Management
- Conduct independent research on a significant HR topic or challenge.
- Integrate theoretical knowledge with practical HR solutions.
- Develop analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
- Present findings in a professional and academically rigorous format.
The ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Human Resource Management (HRM) equips learners with the knowledge, practical skills, and strategic insight required to advance in the HR profession. Upon completing this two-year, 240-credit programme, learners are prepared for a range of career opportunities, leadership roles, and specialised pathways in human resource management. The qualification also supports professional development, practical application of HR strategies, and enhanced organisational impact.
Progression to Senior HR Roles
- Learners can pursue managerial and supervisory positions within HR departments.
- Opportunities exist in recruitment, employee relations, and performance management.
- Graduates are prepared to lead training, development, and engagement initiatives.
- Strategic HR decision-making skills allow learners to influence organisational outcomes.
- Learners gain the expertise to manage HR teams and projects effectively.
- Practical knowledge of employment law and compliance enhances career readiness.
Specialisation and Professional Development
- Learners can specialise in talent management, organisational development, or workforce analytics.
- Opportunities exist to develop expertise in diversity, equity, and inclusion practices.
- Training in HR metrics and technology supports data-driven decision-making.
- Learners can undertake professional workshops, CPD courses, or HR certifications.
- Development of advanced communication and leadership skills enhances career growth.
- Specialisation supports career mobility in both national and international contexts.
Consultancy and Advisory Opportunities
- Graduates can work as HR consultants or advisors for businesses and organisations.
- Learners can provide strategic recommendations on workforce planning and policy.
- Expertise in employee engagement and wellbeing positions learners as key organisational partners.
- Learners can advise on compliance, legal obligations, and ethical HR practices.
- Analytical and project management skills allow learners to lead HR initiatives.
- Consultancy roles provide exposure to diverse industries and organisational structures.
International Career Pathways
- Knowledge of global HR practices supports careers in multinational organisations.
- Learners can manage cross-cultural teams and international workforce projects.
- Understanding of international labour laws and policies enhances employability abroad.
- Graduates are prepared to contribute to global HR strategies and international business planning.
- Exposure to global HR trends ensures learners remain competitive in international markets.
- International pathways allow progression into HR advisory, training, and leadership roles.
Entrepreneurship and HR Project Leadership
- Learners can lead HR projects within organisations or start their own HR consultancy services.
- Skills in project planning, implementation, and evaluation enable successful HR initiatives.
- Graduates can develop HR solutions tailored to organisational needs.
- Entrepreneurship in HR fosters innovation in employee engagement and talent management.
- Practical skills from the capstone project support independent decision-making and strategic planning.
- Project leadership opportunities enhance professional credibility and career advancement.
To deliver the ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Human Resource Management (HRM), centres must meet specific standards to ensure learners receive high-quality education, practical exposure, and professional development. These requirements guarantee consistent delivery, support learner success, and uphold the integrity of the qualification.
Qualified and Experienced Faculty
- Centres must employ trainers with recognised HR qualifications and professional experience.
- Teaching staff should possess expertise in key HR areas such as recruitment, employee relations, and performance management.
- Continuous professional development (CPD) for trainers is recommended to maintain currency with industry trends.
- Faculty should be capable of delivering both theoretical and practical aspects of HRM.
- Availability of subject specialists for advanced HR topics ensures comprehensive learner support.
- Trainers should be skilled in mentoring, coaching, and guiding learners throughout the programme.
Learning Resources and Materials
- Centres must provide access to up-to-date HR textbooks, journals, and digital learning resources.
- Learners should have access to case studies, policy documents, and workforce analytics tools.
- E-learning platforms should be available for blended or online learning options.
- Centres should maintain a library with HR research resources and legal reference materials.
- Study materials must be aligned with international HR practices and standards.
- Centres should provide software and tools to support practical HR exercises and data analysis.
Facilities and Infrastructure
- Classrooms should be equipped with modern teaching aids, projectors, and interactive boards.
- Centres should have dedicated spaces for workshops, simulations, and group discussions.
- Reliable IT infrastructure and internet access must be available for learners.
- Access to computer labs with HR information systems and analytics software is recommended.
- Adequate seating, lighting, and ventilation must be ensured for a productive learning environment.
- Safety and accessibility standards should be maintained throughout the centre.
Assessment and Quality Assurance
- Centres must follow ICTQual AB assessment guidelines for written assignments, case studies, and projects.
- Internal quality assurance processes should monitor assessment accuracy and consistency.
- External verification and moderation must be supported for programme credibility.
- Continuous feedback should be provided to learners to track progress and development.
- Assessment strategies must include both theoretical knowledge and practical HR application.
- Centres should maintain accurate records of learner achievements and assessment outcomes.
Learner Support Services
- Academic guidance and mentoring must be available throughout the programme.
- Career advice and progression counselling should be offered to all learners.
- Centres should provide access to wellbeing and counselling services.
- Support for learners with special educational needs or language challenges must be provided.
- Guidance on research, project work, and professional development should be available.
- Centres should foster a supportive and inclusive learning environment.
Administrative and Compliance Requirements
- Centres must maintain clear and accurate learner records, enrolment data, and attendance.
- Compliance with ICTQual AB’s approval, monitoring, and reporting processes is mandatory.
- Centres should implement policies for safeguarding, equal opportunities, and diversity.
- Transparent procedures for admissions, fees, and assessments must be ensured.
- Centres must be able to submit documentation for audits and external evaluations.
- Policies should be in place for handling complaints, feedback, and continuous improvement.
Route for Candidates with No Experience
This pathway is designed for learners who are new to human resource management and do not yet have professional experience in HR, people management, or organisational leadership.
- Admission: Learners enrol at an ICTQual AB approved centre to begin the two-year programme.
- Training:Learners follow a structured study plan covering 24 units across two years. The programme integrates theoretical study with practical application, including HR strategy, recruitment and selection, employee engagement, performance management, training and development, compensation and benefits, labour law, workforce analytics, and leadership in organisational contexts. Simulations, case studies, and HR projects ensure learners gain hands-on experience.
- Assessment:Learners are assessed through written assignments, HR reports, case studies, project work, presentations, and practical exercises. Assessments are designed to evaluate analytical thinking, problem-solving, research capability, communication skills, and professional competence. Continuous feedback is provided to support learner development and progression throughout the programme.
- Certification: Upon successful completion of all study units and assessments, learners are awarded the ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Human Resource Management, confirming their readiness to pursue careers in HR, people management, organisational development, and related professional roles.
Route for Experienced and Competent Candidates
This pathway is intended for learners who already have substantial professional experience in human resource management, organisational leadership, or related fields.
- Eligibility: Learners must provide evidence of at least five years of verified professional experience in HR, people management, recruitment, training, or organisational development. Evidence may include employer references, HR project documentation, performance records, or a professional portfolio demonstrating competence aligned with programme outcomes.
- Assessment of Competence: Experienced learners are not required to complete the full two-year study programme. Centres assess competence through structured interviews, professional discussions, portfolio evaluations, and evidence-based assessments aligned with the diploma’s learning outcomes.
- Evidence Submission: Learners submit portfolios including HR project reports, employee engagement initiatives, training materials, policy documents, or other examples of professional HR work. Centres may request additional verification or documentation to confirm authenticity and competence.
- Knowledge and Understanding:Where minor gaps are identified, learners may complete bridging modules, workshops, or targeted study sessions to ensure full coverage of all programme outcomes.
- Certification:Learners who successfully demonstrate competence are awarded the ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Human Resource Management, recognising both practical expertise and alignment with international HR standards.
This dual pathway ensures that both new learners and experienced professionals can achieve internationally recognised HR qualifications and advance their careers in human resource management.