The MSc in Human Resource Management at Â鶹ÉçÇø offers a model of how academic institutions can maintain relevance and quality in professional education by aligning curricula with industry standards and evolving professional demands. The alignment of the CIPD Profession Map with academic content, delivered through core modules, showcases a flexible pedagogical approach that blends theoretical knowledge with practical application while fostering reflective learning. This methodology is transferable across academic disciplines that must balance professional accreditation, academic rigour, and practical experience. The programme’s ethos of continuous improvement and its stakeholder-driven design process provide a framework for other academic institutions seeking to future-proof their graduates in alignment with industry expectations.