HND Human Resource Management

Higher National qualifications provide practical skills and theoretical knowledge that meet the needs of employers. The HND in Human Resource Management (SCQF level 8) builds on the knowledge and skills of the HNC Human Resource Management and also covers employee resourcing and talent management, research methods, performance management, business culture and strategy, finance, managing people, and legislation regarding collective employment relations.

This qualification is available through colleges. Typically, an HND takes two years to complete.

Higher National qualifications have been developed by SQA in partnership with colleges, universities and industry ¿ so employers recognise that they provide sound evidence of ability.

The unit-based structure supports flexibility. A unit is typically 40 hours of timetabled learning.

There is a wide choice of optional units which will enable centres to offer courses tailored to meet local needs.

This HN provides progression routes to further study (see Progression).

 

The HNC and HND Human Resource Management are suitable for a wide range of candidates including:

  • school leavers
  • adult returners to education
  • individuals in employment who wish to enhance their career prospects

Access

As with all SQA qualifications, entry is at the discretion of the centre. Access to the HND in Human Resource Management typically requires a minimum of between 12 and 15 credits, usually including all of the HNC Human Resource Management mandatory units.

Different combinations of relevant National Qualifications, vocational qualifications and equivalent qualifications from other awarding bodies may also be acceptable.

Progression and employment

HNCs and HNDs can provide progression to degree-level study. For example, the HNC in Human Resource Management provides opportunities for direct entry into the second year of relevant degree programmes, and the HND in Human Resource Management provides opportunities for direct entry to the third year of relevant degree programmes.

Centres with devolved authority for approval should use their own internal approval process.

Centres without devolved authority require to come forward for approval and should contact SQA's Business Development Team for guidance.

Assessors and verifiers must be able to meet SQA's general requirements for technical/occupational competence as outlined in the Systems and Qualification Approval Guide.

Each individual unit specification gives detailed information on the Evidence Requirements and approaches to assessment for each unit.

Ongoing course assessment will apply.

Assessment support packs are available for most of the mandatory units of this qualification.

HND Human Resource Management

Group Award code: GP8L 16 (240 SCQF credit points)

HND Human Resource Management at SCQF level 8 consists of 15 mandatory Units (160 SCQF credit points) and a number of optional units (80 SCQF points).