
FPM in Human Resource Management at XLRI – Xavier School of Management


East Singhbhum, Jharkhand
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About the Specialization
What is Human Resource Management at XLRI – Xavier School of Management East Singhbhum?
This Human Resource Management specialization program at XLRI, a leading institution in India for HR, focuses on developing advanced research capabilities and deep theoretical knowledge in the field. It emphasizes understanding complex organizational dynamics and people management challenges within the Indian industrial landscape, preparing scholars to contribute to both academia and practice with rigor and relevance.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring academics, HR professionals seeking to transition into research or advanced consulting roles, and individuals passionate about contributing to the intellectual body of HRM knowledge. Candidates typically hold an MBA/PGDM in HR, possess strong analytical skills, and demonstrate a keen interest in rigorous academic inquiry and problem-solving.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as faculty in premier business schools across India and globally, or take up research-intensive roles in HR departments of top Indian and multinational corporations. They are equipped to influence HR policies, contribute to strategic talent management, and lead organizational change, commanding competitive packages and significant growth trajectories.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Fundamentals- (Year 1 (Trimester 1-3))
Dedicate significant time to thoroughly grasp core concepts in statistics, econometrics, and qualitative methods. Form study groups to discuss complex methodologies and review research papers from top journals to understand application. Attend optional workshops on statistical software like R, Python, or Stata early on.
Tools & Resources
R/Python for data analysis, Stata/SPSS, Textbooks on Research Methods, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong foundation in diverse research methodologies is critical for developing robust thesis proposals and conducting credible research, paving the way for academic publications and successful doctoral defense.
Engage with Faculty and Research- (Year 1 (Trimester 1-3))
Proactively seek out professors whose research interests align with yours, even before selecting a guide. Attend faculty research presentations, departmental seminars, and read their recent publications. Participate in informal discussions to understand current research frontiers and potential thesis topics, demonstrating intellectual curiosity.
Tools & Resources
XLRI Faculty Profiles, Departmental Seminar Series, Scopus/Web of Science for faculty publications
Career Connection
Early engagement helps in identifying a suitable thesis advisor and developing a strong research pipeline, crucial for a productive doctoral journey and future academic career opportunities.
Cultivate Academic Writing Skills- (Year 1 (Trimester 1-3))
Practice academic writing by summarizing research papers, writing critical reviews, and completing assignments with a focus on clarity, coherence, and rigor. Seek feedback on drafts from peers and faculty. Consider taking a specialized workshop on academic writing or using online resources to hone this essential skill.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly Premium, Mendeley/Zotero for referencing, Academic Writing guides, Feedback from mentors
Career Connection
Effective academic writing is paramount for publishing in peer-reviewed journals, securing grants, and presenting research at conferences, directly impacting career progression in academia.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Specialization Literature- (Year 2 (Specialization Coursework))
Beyond coursework, exhaustively read classic and contemporary literature in Human Resource Management. Identify gaps in current research and emerging trends in the Indian context. Develop a detailed annotated bibliography for potential thesis areas and start drafting literature review sections for your proposal.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, Google Scholar, Emerald Insight, HRM-specific journals (e.g., Academy of Management Journal, Human Resource Management Review)
Career Connection
This intense literature review forms the bedrock of a strong thesis proposal and positions you as an expert in your chosen HRM sub-field, vital for thesis defense and future research agenda.
Develop a Robust Thesis Proposal- (Year 2 to Early Year 3)
Collaborate closely with your identified thesis advisor to refine your research questions, theoretical framework, and methodology. Present your proposal in internal forums or workshops to receive constructive criticism. Aim for a proposal that is not only academically sound but also relevant to current HRM challenges, especially in India.
Tools & Resources
XLRI Research Committee, Internal FPM workshops, Feedback from senior scholars
Career Connection
A well-developed and defended thesis proposal is the gateway to beginning your dissertation work, a critical milestone for timely completion of the FPM program and establishing your research credibility.
Network and Present at Conferences- (Year 2 to Year 3)
Actively seek opportunities to present your research ideas or preliminary findings at national and international conferences. Attend paper development workshops, network with senior scholars, and absorb feedback from diverse perspectives. Consider Indian conferences like the AIMS International Conference or IIM conferences.
Tools & Resources
Conference websites (e.g., AOM, AIMS, EGOS), Conference travel grants, Networking events
Career Connection
Presenting research enhances visibility, allows for critical feedback, and builds a professional network essential for collaboration, job market opportunities, and staying current with research trends.
Advanced Stage
Aim for Top-Tier Publications- (Year 3-5)
As you generate findings from your dissertation, strategically plan to submit your work to highly regarded peer-reviewed journals in HRM. Understand journal scopes, target appropriate outlets, and meticulously revise your manuscripts based on reviewer feedback. Focus on making significant theoretical and practical contributions.
Tools & Resources
Journal Citation Reports, Journal rankings, Manuscript preparation guides, Mentor feedback
Career Connection
Publications in leading journals are the gold standard for academic careers, directly impacting job offers, tenure decisions, and reputation as a thought leader in HRM.
Prepare for the Academic Job Market- (Year 4-5)
Develop a strong academic CV, teaching philosophy statement, and research statement. Practice job talks and teaching demonstrations. Network actively at conferences and utilize XLRI''''s institutional support for academic placements. Be prepared for rigorous interviews and discussions about your research pipeline.
Tools & Resources
Academic job portals (e.g., HigherEdJobs, Chronicle of Higher Education), XLRI Placement Office (for academic roles), Mock interviews
Career Connection
Thorough preparation is vital for securing desirable faculty positions in top business schools, aligning your skills and research with institutional needs.
Build a Sustainable Research Agenda- (Year 4-5 and beyond)
Beyond the dissertation, start conceptualizing future research projects, ideally in collaboration with faculty or peers. Identify new funding opportunities and grants. Maintain momentum in your research pipeline to ensure continued intellectual contribution and growth in your area of specialization after graduation.
Tools & Resources
Research funding agencies (ICSSR, industry grants), Collaborative research networks, Grant writing workshops
Career Connection
A clear and sustainable research agenda is crucial for long-term success in academia, enabling continued publications, grant acquisition, and leadership in your field of expertise.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree (PGDM/MBA or equivalent) with at least 60% marks (55% for SC/ST/NC-OBC) OR B.Tech/BE with Master''''s Degree OR 5-year Integrated Master''''s Degree with 60% marks OR Professional qualifications (CA/ICWA/CS) with Bachelor''''s Degree with 60% marks. Valid score in XAT, CAT, GMAT, GRE, or GATE required.
Duration: 4-5 years (2 years coursework, 2-3 years dissertation)
Credits: 51 (for coursework phase) Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FPM 101 | Philosophy of Social Science Research | Core | 3 | Epistemology in Social Sciences, Ontological Perspectives, Paradigms of Research, Ethics in Research, Critique of Research Designs |
| FPM 102 | Statistics for Management Research I | Core | 3 | Descriptive Statistics, Probability Theory, Hypothesis Testing, ANOVA, Non-parametric Tests |
| FPM 103 | Micro-Economics for Research | Core | 3 | Consumer Theory, Producer Theory, Market Structures, General Equilibrium, Welfare Economics |
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FPM 104 | Qualitative Research Methods | Core | 3 | Foundations of Qualitative Research, Case Study Method, Ethnography, Grounded Theory, Content Analysis, Interviewing Techniques |
| FPM 105 | Statistics for Management Research II | Core | 3 | Multiple Regression, Logistic Regression, Factor Analysis, Reliability and Validity, Moderation and Mediation |
| FPM 106 | Introduction to Econometrics for Research | Core | 3 | Classical Linear Regression Model, Assumptions of OLS, Violations of OLS Assumptions, Panel Data Basics, Time Series Fundamentals |
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FPM 107 | Theory Building in Management Research | Core | 3 | Nature of Theory, Theoretical Lenses, Conceptual Models, Developing Hypotheses, Writing Theoretical Contributions |
| FPM 108 | Multivariate Analysis | Core | 3 | MANOVA, Discriminant Analysis, Cluster Analysis, Conjoint Analysis, Multidimensional Scaling |
| FPM 109 | Pedagogy for Management Education | Core | 3 | Teaching Philosophies, Course Design, Teaching Methods, Assessment in Education, Technology in Teaching |




