Postgraduate | 2026

International Master of Business Administration specialising in Human Resource Management

Start date

February, July

Campus

Adelaide City

Duration

2 year(s) full-time

Mode

Hybrid

Program code

MAIMB

Study as

Full-time

Indicative fees

$48,100

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

None

English language requirements

IELTS Overall 6.5 IELTS Reading 6.0 IELTS Listening 6.0 IELTS Speaking 6.0 IELTS Writing 6.0 Equivalent English qualifications

CRICOS code

115889J

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible for admission, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and fulfill any essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

A completed bachelor (AQF level 7) or bachelor honours (AQF level 8) degree or equivalent from a recognised higher education institution; OR
A completed nested or related graduate certificate (AQF level 8) or higher from a recognised higher education institution.

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

IELTS Overall 6.5
IELTS Reading 6.0
IELTS Listening 6.0
IELTS Speaking 6.0
IELTS Writing 6.0

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:

Equivalent English qualifications

International admissions by country

Country	Score
Australia - GPA 7.0 Scale	N/A

Why International Master of Business Administration?

Ready to recruit top employees from diverse backgrounds? Eager to enhance employee performance on a global scale and drive business success? With Adelaide University’s Master of Business Administration (IMBA) specialising in Human Resource Management, you’ll have the expert knowledge to drive company culture and success in a global market.

The International Master of Business Administration (IMBA) is for recent graduates and early career professionals wanting to learn the foundations of business in a global context. Be equipped with the skills of an international business leader – ready to manage forward-thinking, diverse teams.

Develop skills to progress your career in several management positions within human resources and beyond. As an IMBA graduate, you’ll be responsive to contemporary shifts in business – social, environmental, and digital. Armed with specialised skills and a global perspective, you’ll stand out in in today’s competitive job market.

Overview

If you have completed a 3-year bachelor’s degree or higher and want to learn the foundations of international business, Adelaide University’s International Master of Business Administration (IMBA) is for you.

Progress your career in senior management. Acquire effective people management strategies to optimise staff recruitment and retention. Take a data-driven approach to decision making, using people analytics. Learn how to acquire and develop talented employees.

Expand your business knowledge with topics on cross cultural communication, strategic marketing, ethical business conduct and financial management principles. With our IMBA program, you’ll graduate with the practical skills to not only shape organisational culture, but to lead global companies to achieve their business goals.

Key features

Study an IMBA with no prior work experience.
Build industry connections through case studies, guest speakers and mentoring opportunities.
Prepare for interactions with global businesses with topics on culture and customs.
Connect with a diverse cohort of students from all over the world.
Gain a competitive edge with your specialisation in Human Resource Management.
Complete a project in an area of interest.

What you'll learn

Our IMBA specialising in Human Resource Management is a two-year degree comprising of 11 core courses, two electives and three specialised courses in Human Resource Management.

In first year, you’ll develop your knowledge in crucial areas including business conduct in global contexts, accounting, marketing and ethics. In your second year, you’ll explore specialised topics on human resource management including:

Strategic Management of Human Resource
People Analytics
Talent Acquisition and Development.

Finish your studies with a final capstone project, exploring an area of human resource management that interests you most.

This degree offers flexible hybrid delivery, which includes a mix of on-campus and online study.

Specialisations

Did you know that you can also choose an IMBA with a specialisation in one of the following:

Business Analytics
Finance
Project Management
Marketing
Procurement and Supply Chain Management.

What courses you'll study

Complete 96 units comprising:

60 units for all Core courses, and
6 units for all Work integrated learning, and
12 units from Electives, and
Either:
18 units from Discipline courses, or
18 units for one Major from Major

Complete 60 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Management Accounting	Course code ACCT5002	Units 6
Course name Finance	Course code BAFI5002	Units 6
Course name AI for Business	Course code BUSI5002	Units 6
Course name Business Analytics	Course code BUSI5005	Units 6
Course name Business Sustainability and Ethics	Course code BUSI6002	Units 6
Course name Business Problem Analysis	Course code BUSI6005	Units 6
Course name Procurement & Supply Chain Management	Course code BUSI6007	Units 6
Course name Strategic Management	Course code BUSI6013	Units 6
Course name People, Leadership, Culture	Course code HRES5009	Units 6
Course name Global Business Environment	Course code IBUS5000	Units 6

Complete 18 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Strategic Management of Human Resources	Course code HRES6000	Units 6
Course name Talent Acquisition and Development	Course code HRES5003	Units 6
Course name People Analytics	Course code HRES5005	Units 6

Complete 6 units for ALL of the following:

Course name		Course code	Units
	Course name Project Based Capstone	Course code BUSI6011	Units 6

Complete exactly 12 units from the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Elective 1	Course code AUXX1011	Units 6
Course name Elective 2	Course code AUXX1012	Units 6
Course name Elective 3	Course code AUXX1013	Units 6
Course name Elective 4	Course code AUXX1014	Units 6

Career outcomes

Prepare for a career in a range of senior roles within human resource management and beyond. Interested in an exciting career as a global human resource technology specialist, leveraging technology to streamline processes? Want to work as an employee relations manager, managing workplace dynamics with people of diverse backgrounds? Explore these opportunities and more as an IMBA graduate.

You’ll also be well-suited for a career in the following areas:

Management Consulting
Management or leadership roles in business, not-for-profits and government
Board directorship
Entrepreneurship.

Industry trends

In a global business environment, it’s crucial our leaders can transition companies to meet technological, environmental, and social expectations of modern consumers. According to the World Economic Forum’s 2023 Future of Jobs Report, these are the skills expected to drive job growth in the next five years. As an IMBA graduate, you’ll be ready to manage business disruptions – making you an appealing choice in today’s employment market.

How to apply

Check your eligibility

Before you begin, find the degree you wish to study and check you meet the academic entry requirements and English language requirements.

Entry requirements

Gather your relevant documents

Ensure you have all supporting documentation needed at the time of application to avoid delays.

How to apply

Complete and send your application

Apply through one of the University’s official agency partners, or via our online application system.

Apply now

How to apply

Applications for international students are open now, to begin your studies in 2026.

Apply through one of the University’s official Education Agents, or via our International Application System.

Find an Education Agent

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may be required to apply through one of our Education Agents.

Find an education agent in your country

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

From August 2025 you can apply as a domestic student for entry to Adelaide University in 2026.
Applications for 2026 will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs. A direct application process will be available for 100% online degrees at a later date. In the meantime, you could start your degree at UniSA or the University of Adelaide and continue at Adelaide University.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university.

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus.

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

Academic learning support, including after-hours support provided via Studiosity through live online chat assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities.
Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner (GP) to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, visa and work rights and academic policies and procedures.
An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission.

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

February for Semester 1  
July for Semester 2.

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view our Academic calendar. 

View all FAQs

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.

Student services

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:

Career advice and mentoring services
Personal counselling
LGBTQIA+ support
Academic support
Fees and finance help
Security services
Accommodation services
Common rooms
Prayer rooms.

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include: