A design assessment process for student selection in the MHRM program at AUB -

Abstract

The rise in demand for graduate education today has created a need for more effective, selective and reliable admission procedures. Universities are taking an active role in their admissions process by considering which prospective students would be a “good fit”, and by identifying the requirements needed in order to successfully complete the program. Research regarding the selection process of graduate programs shows that though undergraduate GPA and test scores are relied on as the primary emphasis and best predictors, alone they are not enough. More and more, researchers are realizing that academic performance is very much related to soft skills. In this paper, we identify the selection criteria and design the selection process for graduate students applying for the Masters of Human Resources Management (MHRM) program at AUB OSB. This is done through 1) a literature review on selection criteria in the educational industry, 2) an examination of existing selection criteria for graduate HR students across various universities, 3) an analysis of the vision and objectives of the newly established MHRM program, and 4) and data collection from interviews with MHRM professors and focus groups with students. The results show that the competencies needed for the MHRM program are analytical skills, teamwork, communication, achievement orientation, positive attitude, conscientiousness, time management, emotional intelligence, strong command of English, interest in HR, aptitude, numerical ability and knowledge of workplace. This study reveals the importance of soft skills - qualitative data in the successful completion of the program, and designs a process on how to assess them.