Course description
This course critically examines the theoretical, policy and practice perspectives of equal opportunities for the diversity of people
in Britain.
The expansion of existing UK regulation and new requirements arising from Article 13 of the Amsterdam Treaty make it essential that employers and providers of goods and services to the public understand both the causes of institutional discrimination and the principles of equal opportunities to overcome it. Expertise in a generic approach to equal opportunities is an important part of managing any organisation, whether in public, private or voluntary sectors. This is vital, not merely as an ethical obligation, but as potential for maximising corporate opportunities.
Course Content
* Approaches to Social Science Research
* Social Science Research in Practice
* Theories of Equality and Diversity
* Best Practice in Equality and Diversity
* Concepts and Issues in Contemporary Employment Law
* Independent Study or Human Resource Development
* Dissertation
How To Study
Formal learning in weekly classes (nine hours per week full-time, four and a half hours per week part-time) will be supplemented by student-led debates and presentations. The primary focus for learning is through research and employer-sponsored students will have opportunities to address live issues and problems. The core training in research methods is crucial to the ‘project work’ approach to the assessment of all learning on the course. Students are encouraged to carry out assignments that are relevant to their work or professional interests. Students seeking the full MSc award are required to carry out independent research for a 20,000-word dissertation.
Career prospects
Students successfully completing the MSc Equality and Diversity will have acquired the necessary skills for mainstreaming equality of opportunities for the wide diversity of people, including recognising when specialist inputs are appropriate. As such, this course is suitable for people involved in equality work or pursuing a career in equality, diversity or human resource management in the public, private or voluntary sectors.
