

MBA in Human Resource Management at Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur


Kanpur Nagar, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Human Resource Management at Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur Kanpur Nagar?
This Human Resource Management program at IIT Kanpur focuses on developing strategic HR leaders for dynamic Indian and global markets. It emphasizes contemporary HR practices, data-driven decision making, and ethical leadership, preparing graduates to navigate complex organizational challenges and contribute significantly to talent acquisition and development in various industries across India. The program integrates theoretical foundations with practical applications to foster impactful HR professionals.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates seeking entry into HR roles in Indian corporates, and working professionals looking to upskill in strategic human resource management. It attracts career changers transitioning to HR leadership or consulting within India, as well as individuals keen on understanding talent dynamics and organizational behavior across diverse Indian industries, seeking a robust analytical foundation for their careers.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect promising career paths in HR leadership, talent management, HR analytics, and industrial relations within top Indian and multinational companies. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 8-15 LPA, with experienced professionals earning INR 25-50+ LPA. The program aligns with professional certifications like SHRM and NHRDN, preparing professionals for rapid growth trajectories and leadership positions in India''''s evolving job market.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core HR Concepts and Analytics- (Semester 1-2)
Thoroughly grasp fundamental HR principles and quantitative methods from core courses like IME606 (HRM) and IME607 (Quantitative Methods). Utilize online platforms like NHRDN knowledge hub and analytics tools like R/Python for basic HR data analysis. Form study groups to discuss case studies and problem-solving scenarios, focusing on Indian business contexts.
Tools & Resources
IITK Library resources, NHRDN India publications, Online tutorials for R/Python basics, Management Case Study Websites
Career Connection
A strong foundation ensures a deep understanding of HR processes and data-driven decision making, crucial for any entry-level HR role and future growth in HR analytics within Indian companies.
Engage in Departmental HR Events and Clubs- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in the IME department''''s HR-focused clubs, seminars, and workshops. Take leadership roles in organizing events related to HR challenges in India, inviting industry experts. Network with senior students and faculty to gain insights into current HR trends and career opportunities specific to the Indian market.
Tools & Resources
IME HR Club activities, IITK Management Conclave, LinkedIn for professional networking, Local NHRDN Chapter events
Career Connection
Early engagement helps build a professional network, exposes you to real-world HR issues, and develops leadership and organizational skills highly valued by recruiters in India.
Seek Mentorship for Career Guidance- (Semester 1-2)
Identify and connect with alumni or faculty mentors who have significant experience in Human Resource Management within the Indian corporate context. Seek their guidance on suitable career paths, essential skill development, and industry expectations. Leverage their advice to refine your academic and professional goals effectively.
Tools & Resources
IITK Alumni Network portal, Faculty office hours, Industry mentor platforms like AspiringMinds for India-specific advice
Career Connection
Mentorship provides invaluable insights into the Indian job market, helps in strategic career planning, and can open doors to internship and placement opportunities through their networks.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake an HR-focused Summer Internship- (After Semester 2 (Summer Break))
Secure a summer internship (IME690) in a reputable Indian or multinational company''''s HR department. Focus on practical application of theoretical knowledge, contributing to projects in areas like talent acquisition, compensation, employee engagement, or HR analytics. Document experiences and learn from industry professionals.
Tools & Resources
IITK Career Development Centre (CDC), Internshala, Company HR portals, Glassdoor India
Career Connection
Internships are critical for gaining practical experience, building industry connections, and often lead to pre-placement offers, significantly boosting placement prospects in India''''s competitive market.
Specialize in Advanced HR Electives- (Semester 3)
Carefully choose elective courses (IME673-IME684) that align with your specific career interests in HRM, such as Strategic HR, Compensation & Benefits, or HR Analytics. Engage deeply with case studies and industry projects offered in these advanced courses. Aim for comprehensive understanding over mere credit accumulation, focusing on practical implementation.
Tools & Resources
Course syllabi descriptions, Faculty consultations, Industry reports on HR specializations by NASSCOM, Deloitte India
Career Connection
Deep specialization makes you a more attractive candidate for specific HR roles and provides the expertise needed to excel in challenging, specialized positions within the Indian corporate landscape.
Participate in HR Competitions & Case Studies- (Semester 3)
Actively participate in national-level HR case competitions (e.g., conducted by prominent B-schools like XLRI, IIMs, or corporate HR challenges). Apply learned concepts to solve complex business problems relevant to the Indian industry. This enhances problem-solving, teamwork, and presentation skills, which are highly valued by Indian recruiters.
Tools & Resources
Unstop.com (formerly Dare2Compete), Industry-specific case study platforms, Corporate challenge websites
Career Connection
Winning or even participating in such competitions significantly boosts your resume, provides exposure to industry leaders, and refines critical thinking abilities essential for HR leadership roles.
Advanced Stage
Develop a Strong Placement Strategy and Portfolio- (Semester 4)
Begin placement preparation early by refining your resume, practicing interview skills (behavioral, HR-specific, and technical), and preparing for group discussions. Curate a portfolio of projects, internships, and competition achievements. Actively network with alumni and target companies and roles matching your HRM specialization.
Tools & Resources
IITK CDC workshops, Mock interview platforms, Networking with alumni in target companies on LinkedIn, HR-specific interview guides
Career Connection
A well-executed placement strategy maximizes your chances of securing desirable HR roles in top Indian and multinational companies, leveraging your IIT Kanpur brand and specialized skills.
Undertake an HR Research Project or Dissertation- (Semester 4)
Work on an independent research project or dissertation in a contemporary HR area under faculty guidance. This could involve data collection, analysis, and reporting on a specific HR challenge in the Indian industry, utilizing advanced analytical techniques. This demonstrates deep analytical and research capabilities.
Tools & Resources
IITK Research facilities, Academic journals on HR (e.g., Vikalpa, IIMB Management Review), Survey tools like Qualtrics/Google Forms
Career Connection
A strong research project enhances your analytical prowess, makes you suitable for HR consulting roles, and differentiates you for advanced leadership positions requiring strategic thinking and evidence-based decision-making.
Cultivate Leadership and Ethical Decision-Making- (Semester 4)
Engage in leadership roles within campus organizations or community initiatives, focusing on managing teams and resolving conflicts ethically. Reflect on case studies involving ethical dilemmas in Indian workplaces. Develop a strong sense of professional integrity and social responsibility, critical for HR leadership in guiding organizational culture and ensuring compliance.
Tools & Resources
Leadership development workshops, Ethical leadership seminars, Discussions on corporate governance frameworks in India
Career Connection
Ethical leadership and strong decision-making skills are paramount for senior HR roles, enabling you to effectively guide organizational culture, ensure compliance, and build trust within the Indian business environment.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree in any discipline or an equivalent academic pursuit like ACA, AICWA, etc., with a minimum of 60% marks or a CPI of 6.0 on a 10.0 point scale. For candidates with an undergraduate degree from an IIT, the minimum CPI criterion is relaxed to 5.0. A valid CAT score for admission is mandatory.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 102 Credits
Assessment: Internal: Determined by individual course instructor through quizzes, mid-semester examinations, assignments, and projects., External: Determined by individual course instructor through comprehensive examinations.
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IME601 | Managerial Economics | Core | 3 | Economic Principles for Business Decisions, Demand, Supply and Market Equilibrium, Production and Cost Analysis, Market Structures and Pricing Strategies, Market Failure and Government Intervention, Introduction to Macroeconomics |
| IME602 | Financial Management | Core | 3 | Financial Statement Analysis, Time Value of Money, Capital Budgeting Techniques, Cost of Capital Estimation, Capital Structure Decisions, Working Capital Management |
| IME603 | Marketing Management | Core | 3 | Marketing Fundamentals and Environment, Consumer Behavior Insights, Market Segmentation, Targeting, and Positioning, Product and Brand Management, Pricing Strategies, Promotion and Distribution Channels |
| IME604 | Operations Management | Core | 3 | Operations Strategy and Competitiveness, Process Analysis and Design, Capacity Planning and Management, Supply Chain Management, Inventory Control Systems, Quality Management and Control |
| IME605 | Organizational Behaviour | Core | 3 | Individual Behavior and Personality, Group Dynamics and Teamwork, Motivation Theories and Application, Leadership and Power, Communication and Conflict Management, Organizational Culture and Climate |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IME606 | Human Resource Management | Core | 3 | HR Planning and Job Analysis, Recruitment and Selection Strategies, Training and Development Programs, Performance Management Systems, Compensation and Employee Benefits, Employee Relations and HR Analytics |
| IME607 | Quantitative Methods | Core | 3 | Probability and Statistical Distributions, Statistical Inference and Hypothesis Testing, Regression Analysis, Linear Programming and Optimization, Decision Analysis, Simulation Techniques |
| IME608 | Business Analytics | Core | 3 | Data Mining Fundamentals, Predictive Modeling Techniques, Machine Learning Applications in Business, Data Visualization and Storytelling, Business Intelligence Tools, Ethical Considerations in Analytics |
| IME609 | Strategic Management | Core | 3 | Strategic Analysis and Formulation, Sources of Competitive Advantage, Corporate and Business Level Strategy, Strategy Implementation and Control, Corporate Governance, Global Strategy |
| IME610 | Managerial Communication | Core | 3 | Effective Oral and Written Communication, Business Presentations, Negotiation and Persuasion Skills, Cross-Cultural Communication, Digital Communication Strategies, Business Etiquette and Professionalism |
| IME690 | Summer Internship | Mandatory Project | 6 | Application of Management Theories in Practice, Industry Problem Solving, Project Report Writing and Presentation, Professional Networking, Exposure to Real-World Business Environments, Skill Development in Chosen Area |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IME673 | Industrial Relations and Labour Laws | Elective (Human Resource Management) | 3 | Foundations of Industrial Relations, Trade Unions and Collective Bargaining, Overview of Indian Labour Laws, Industrial Disputes and Resolution Mechanisms, Employee Grievance Handling, Role of Government in IR |
| IME674 | Performance Management | Elective (Human Resource Management) | 3 | Performance Appraisal Systems, Goal Setting and Management By Objectives, Performance Feedback and Coaching, Designing Performance Metrics, Linking Performance to Rewards, Managing Underperformance |
| IME675 | Compensation and Reward Management | Elective (Human Resource Management) | 3 | Compensation Strategy and Design, Job Evaluation Methods, Pay Structures and Salary Administration, Incentive Schemes and Variable Pay, Employee Benefits and Services, Executive Compensation |
| IME676 | Managing Diversity and Inclusion at Workplace | Elective (Human Resource Management) | 3 | Dimensions of Diversity, Strategies for Workplace Inclusion, Unconscious Bias and Stereotypes, Affirmative Action Policies, Legal Frameworks for Diversity, Inclusive Leadership |
| IME677 | Leadership and Team Building | Elective (Human Resource Management) | 3 | Leadership Theories and Styles, Team Dynamics and Development, Conflict Resolution in Teams, Motivation and Empowerment, Effective Communication in Teams, Building High-Performing Teams |
| IME678 | Organizational Development and Change | Elective (Human Resource Management) | 3 | Foundations of Organizational Development, Models of Organizational Change, OD Interventions, Diagnosis and Feedback, Process Consultation, Managing Resistance to Change |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IME679 | Strategic Human Resource Management | Elective (Human Resource Management) | 3 | Aligning HR with Business Strategy, HR Metrics and Analytics, Strategic Talent Management, Organizational Design and Structure, International Human Resource Management, HR for Mergers and Acquisitions |
| IME680 | Cross Cultural Management | Elective (Human Resource Management) | 3 | Cultural Dimensions and Models, Cross-Cultural Communication, Managing International Assignments, Leading Multicultural Teams, Global Business Ethics, Cultural Adaptation Strategies |
| IME681 | Training and Development | Elective (Human Resource Management) | 3 | Training Needs Analysis, Designing Training Programs, Delivery Methods and Technologies, Evaluation of Training Effectiveness, Career Development Systems, Managerial and Leadership Development |
| IME682 | Human Resource Information System | Elective (Human Resource Management) | 3 | HR Data Management, HR Analytics and Reporting, HRIS Implementation and Maintenance, Data Security and Privacy in HR, HR Technology Trends, Cloud-based HR Solutions |
| IME683 | Talent Management and Career Development | Elective (Human Resource Management) | 3 | Talent Acquisition Strategies, Talent Retention and Engagement, Succession Planning, Career Paths and Progression, Mentoring and Coaching Programs, Employee Value Proposition |
| IME684 | Counseling Skills for Managers | Elective (Human Resource Management) | 3 | Foundations of Counseling in Management, Active Listening and Empathy, Crisis Intervention, Ethical Considerations in Counseling, Stress Management Techniques, Providing Constructive Feedback |




