Since its inception in 1979, the Department of Industrial Psychology and People Management - previously known as the Department of Industrial Psychology and the Department of Human Resource Management at the former Rand Afrikaans University (RAU) - has recognised the importance and urgency of upgrading the knowledge levels and skills of Human Resource practitioners. In this regard it pioneered the establishment of an academic capacity to respond to this challenge and elevated the field of Human Resource Management from being viewed merely as a functional discipline within organisations, also to that of a science worthy of academic study.
Through its graduates the Department provides a basis for continuous innovation both in the practice, and study of human resource management - a prerequisite for business survival in a rapidly-evolving and increasingly complex business environment.
A hallmark of the Department's work is timeous and market-driven programme innovation and delivery - a feature made possible only through its close relationship with its consumers and other stakeholders.
A clearly articulated research thrust and strong focus on performance improvement are salient features of all the programmes offered by the Department. Some of the more noteworthy features of the various departmental programmes are the focus placed on the learner, and the creation of a compatible and supportive academic environment within which the student can advance and manage his/her own learning.
The Department of Industrial Psychology and People Management is confident that its programmes will remain state-of-the-art, and will continue to empower its consumers with the necessary competencies to function and manage in a rapidly changing field of Human Resource Management.
Vision
To lead scholarship in optimising human and organisational dynamics
Mission
We realise our vision by attracting and developing staff and students who will pursue excellence and thought leadership in human and organisational dynamics by:
promoting quality teaching and research;
developing appropriate skills;
enacting our institution’s metropolitan/cosmopolitan character.
Partnerships
An articulation agreement between Technikon SA and the Human Resource Development (HRD) Extracurricular Programme exists.
This agreement facilitates progression to the BTech Degree in Human Resource Development at the Technikon SA. Students that complete the Diploma in Education, Training & Development Practice can proceed to the BTech Degree and after successful completion such a student can apply for the Honours degree in Human Resource Development at the University.
The Programme: Human Resource Development Extracurricular of the Department and the South African Police Service train all the SAPS trainers under this agreement.