Master of Human Resource Management

Postgraduate | 2026

Mode

On Campus

Start date

February, July

Campus

Adelaide City

Duration

2 year(s) full-time

Program code

MAHRM

Study as

Full-time

Indicative annual fees

$48,100

Non-tuition fees

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

115918J

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate they fulfil any prerequisite and 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 or equivalent 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

Why Master of Human Resource Management?

Help businesses invest in their greatest resource.

No matter the sector, top companies have one thing in common: they genuinely value and invest in their people.

In fact, companies that score highly on employee experience grow profits up to three times faster, report higher rates of customer satisfaction and lower employee turnover than their competitors (Forbes, 2023).

As businesses face rising costs, technological advancements, and shifting consumer and employee expectations, the need to achieve more with less has never been greater. In this complex landscape, skilled human resource managers are essential. Build a career that helps organisations thrive without sacrificing their greatest asset – their people.

Overview

Take your career to the next level with our Master of Human Resource Management.

Explore topics on industrial relations, talent acquisition and development, strategic human resource management and more. Make invaluable industry connections with experienced human resource professionals and industry executives. Sharpen your problem-solving, leadership, people management and strategic thinking skills.

Take courses examining global perspectives in professional HR practice. Critically review real company case studies and develop actionable, innovative, ethical and sustainable solutions to common challenges. You’ll also develop high-level technical skills in using HRM systems and advanced understanding of how to leverage digital technology to solve complex management problems.

Electives allow you to dive deeper into the areas that interest you. A major industry-based project helps you translate theory and research into practice.

Emerge with the advanced expertise to shape company culture, drive change and help organisations stay competitive in an increasingly complex business environment.

Key features

Learn from industry experts and leading scholars in human resource management.
Gain advanced understanding of complex human resource management (HRM) systems and digital tools.
Develop expertise in core areas such as people analytics, strategic thinking, leadership and performance.
Critically examine HRM approaches in global and cross-cultural contexts and work on real company case studies.
Undertake an elective aligned to your interests and career goals.
Complete an industry-based project.

What you'll learn

In the Master of Human Resource Management, you will complete a range of advanced courses that extend your knowledge and skills in best practice and emerging human resource management concepts, theories, principles and methods.

Alongside specialised human resources courses, you’ll also complete courses covering key business and leadership knowledge. You’ll study topics including:

Accounting principles for decision makers
Australian industrial relations
Entrepreneurial thinking
Foundations of employment law
Managing employee performance and rewards
Managing the global workforce
Marketing
Negotiation
People analytics
People, leadership and organisational performance
Strategic management of human resources
Talent acquisition and development.

Throughout your degree, you’ll have the chance to explore areas of interest through a wide range of electives.

In your final year, you’ll complete a major industry-based project.

What courses you'll study

Complete 96 units comprising:

72 units for all Core courses, and
18 units for all Work integrated learning, and
6 units for Electives

Complete 72 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Accounting Principles for Decision Makers	Course code ACCT5007	Units 6
Course name Entrepreneurial Thinking	Course code BUSI5014	Units 6
Course name People, Leadership and Organisational Performance	Course code HRES5002	Units 6
Course name Talent Acquisition and Development	Course code HRES5003	Units 6
Course name Managing Employee Performance and Rewards	Course code HRES5004	Units 6
Course name People Analytics	Course code HRES5005	Units 6
Course name Managing the Global Workforce	Course code HRES5007	Units 6
Course name Foundations of Employment Law	Course code HRES5013	Units 6
Course name Marketing	Course code MARK5000	Units 6
Course name Negotiation	Course code BUSI6001	Units 6
Course name Strategic Management of Human Resources	Course code HRES6000	Units 6
Course name Australian Industrial Relations	Course code HRES6002	Units 6

Complete 18 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Applied Challenge	Course code BUSI5900	Units 6
Course name Applied Challenge (Extended)	Course code BUSI6902	Units 6
Course name Integrated Learning	Course code HRES6900	Units 6

Complete 6 units comprising:

6 units from Free electives

Career outcomes

As a graduate of the Master of Human Resources Management at Adelaide University, you’ll emerge equipped to be a leader and decision-maker – ready to operate at the senior levels in any organisation.

You might take up a role as chief HR officer, working with senior management teams to create competitive renumeration strategies or acting as an advisor for complex industrial relations matters. Maybe you’ll work in change management, facilitating a smooth transition through the organisational change process. Perhaps you’ll become a consultant, supporting organisations to design and implement policy and processes to champion employee growth and wellbeing.

Some other career paths you could pursue include:

Talent acquisition specialist
HR business partner
Employee relations manager
Learning and development coordinator
Compensation and benefits analyst
Training and development manager
Diversity and inclusion officer
Chief Operating Officer
Board director
Entrepreneur.

Industry trends

As the world continues to navigate unprecedented challenges and economic turbulence, organisations from all sectors are struggling to adapt their processes, policies and practices. How businesses respond will determine their status as an employer of choice and subsequently their ability to attract and retain top talent. Senior human resource professionals will be essential in helping organisations navigate this complexity and remain competitive in an environment where change is fast-moving and constant.

The World Economic Forum (2023) suggests that as industries continue to rely on digital technologies for innovation and growth, the need for human resource managers to stay ahead and fluent in the latest HRM tech will only become more critical.

Accreditation

Adelaide University is working through relevant approvals for program accreditation ahead of students commencing in 2026.

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.

Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025. Applications will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs.

Applications to study a 100% online degree will open in July 2025 via a direct application process.

In the meantime, you could start your studies at UniSA or the University of Adelaide in 2025 and continue on to Adelaide University in 2026.

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, spanning 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 to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, 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 the 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: