Download our program guide
Our program guides are here to help you make the right choice. Packed with detailed information about studying with UNSW Online, from course content to career outcomes, they’re designed to support you in finding the program that fits your goals and aspirations.
Here's what you'll find inside:
- Entry requirements
- Program highlights
- Course structures
- Fees
- Online learning approach
Overview
In today's fast-changing world of work, organisations need HR professionals who can deliver tangible results. This has fuelled a demand for specialists who understand people, performance and culture and are equipped to meet emerging business challenges and lead workforce transformation.
A Master of Human Resource Management equips you with the skills and knowledge that employers value, combining strategic insight with compassionate, people-focused leadership. This program prepares you to tackle complex workplace challenges, open doors to new career opportunities, and drive transformative change within organisations – whether at the company, managerial, or individual level.
At UNSW Online, our practical, research-informed program ensures you graduate ready to lead and add value to any organisation.
Why study with us?
UNSW Online's Master of Human Resource Management is one of Australia's most respected HR postgraduate programs. Delivered through the Australian Graduate School of Management (AGSM) at UNSW Business School and accredited by the Australian HR Institute (AHRI), our curriculum is nationally recognised and industry aligned, ensuring you are equipped to excel in high-impact roles that influence organisational strategy and support high-performing teams.
Delivered 100% online in an accelerated format, our programs offer unmatched flexibility for working professionals. Tailor your learning experience to your career goals, with the option to specialise in Human Resource Analytics, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion or Leadership and Organisational Development or pursue a general path with electives of your choice.
As Australia's top university for Business and Management studies*, UNSW delivers the academic excellence and industry relevance that employers value. You will learn from leading academics and experienced practitioners who connect theory to real-world applications. Our program will give you the confidence, people-centric strategy, leadership capabilities and digital skills to optimise workplaces through innovative HR practices.
*QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2025
Duration
2 years, part time
Courses
12
Intake
Jan, Mar, May, July, Aug, Oct
Indicative 2026 fee per course
$5,130
Study mode
100% online
Program code
8451
The Master of Human Resource Management program includes 12 online courses and gives you the option to specialise in Human Resource Analytics , Diversity, Equity and Inclusion or Leadership and Organisational Development or opt for a general path, selecting electives that align with your career goals and interests.
If you want deeper expertise, you have the option to complete two specialisations and graduate with both listed on your degree.
Core courses
Complete each of the following core courses:
- Human Resource Policies and Practices
- Human Resource Strategies
- Managing People and Organisations
- Introduction to Employment Law
Elective courses
Choose eight electives from the following courses:
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion elective courses
- Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
- Employee Wellbeing and Engagement
- Sustainability and Human Resources
Leadership and Organisational elective courses
- Leadership Development
- Organisational Development
Human Resource Analytics elective courses
- Human Resource Analytics#
- Human Resource Information Systems
- Introductory Data Analysis
Further elective courses
- Attracting, Evaluating and Retaining Talent
- Change Management
- Strategic Consulting Project
- Strategic Rewards and Performance Management
- Managing Yourself and Others
- Financial Management
*prerequisite: students must have completed 6 courses.
#prerequisite: students must have completed Introductory Data Analysis before enrolling.
The UNSW Online Master of Human Resource Management program suite gives you the option to specialise in one or more of the following areas. Click on each for more information or download our program guide to learn more about our dual specialisation pathways.
To find out more about each course, download your program guide.
Whether you’re looking to advance your current role or specialise in a new area, the UNSW Online Master of Human Resource Management will provide you with critical skills you need to align people-focused strategy with business objectives. Diverse and rewarding careers await Master of Human Resource Management graduates. Roles may include:
- Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Specialist
- Director of People and Culture
- Executive Director of HR
- Employee Experience Manager
- Employment Relations Manager
- Human Resource Analyst
- Human Resource Advisor
- Leadership and Engagement Manager
- Organisational Change Specialist
- People and Culture Consultant
Download your program guide to find out more about how the online Master of Human Resource Management can help you in fast-tracking a rewarding and dynamic HR career.
General admission requirements
To be eligible for the online Master of Human Resource Management, you must have a recognised bachelor’s degree (or equivalent qualification) with a credit average (65 per cent or higher) as determined by the UNSW Admissions entry calculator.
Entry via nested qualification
For those who do not qualify for direct entry into the master’s program, an articulation pathways exist from the Graduate Certificate programs in Human Resource Management; Human Resource Analytics; Diversity, Equity and Inclusion; and Leadership and Organisational Development; if the student completes these programs with a minimum WAM of 65.
You can also complete up to two eligible Graduate Certificates which can be stacked towards your Master of Human Resource Management degree. Stacking two Graduate Certificates will allow you to graduate with the master's degree by completing a further four courses.
English language
You may need to provide evidence of English proficiency to study at UNSW. This ensures you can succeed in webinars, coursework and assessments. Proof can include:
- English tests or university courses
- Prior study in English
- Other qualifications or waivers
Program fees
At UNSW Online, we’re committed to providing a world-class education that delivers exceptional value. Our programs are designed to fit your lifestyle and career goals, with fees structured on a per-course basis to give you flexibility and control over your investment. Your student fees are calculated based on the courses you take and your residency type, ensuring transparency and fairness.
Indicative 2026 fee per course
$5,130
Indicative 2026 total program fees
$62,500
The total indicative fee varies based on the elective courses you select, the year you complete them and any approved recognition of prior learning (RPL) granted before you begin your studies. Find out more about our course and program fees here.
FEE-HELP available
Eligible domestic students can apply for FEE-HELP, a government loan to cover all or part of your tuition fees for fee-paying places. The loan amount is added to our HELP debt, which is repaid once your income reaches the repayment threshold.
You can apply for FEE-HELP as part of your acceptance to UNSW Online. The form will present itself during your final stages of online acceptance if you are eligible.
Applications must be submitted before the relevant teaching period census date. Read more about FEE-HELP and eligibility here.
At UNSW Online, we’re here to support you every step of the way as you work toward graduating from one of the world’s leading universities. Our online learning environment is designed to fit seamlessly into your busy schedule, giving you the flexibility to access course resources anytime, anywhere on any device. We offer six study blocks, known as hexamesters, each year. These seven-week blocks with orientation time beforehand allow you to focus on one course at a time – providing the perfect balance between study and life’s other commitments.
Our academics are among the best in the world and even though you’re studying online, you’ll experience the same high-quality education as our on-campus students. Throughout your journey, you’ll have the dedicated support of your Student Success Advisor. From enrolment to graduation, they’ll be your go-to for all non-academic queries, available by phone or email to ensure you stay on track. You’ll also benefit from Career Success – a self-paced, curated module designed to help you build and implement an effective career plan. With access to tools like Career AI (powered by VMock) and CaseCoach as well as guides for perfecting your LinkedIn profile, resume and cover letter, you’ll be equipped to take the next step in your career with confidence.
Why choose the Master of Human Resource Management at UNSW Online?
The AGSM advantage
Our Master of Human Resource Management is designed and delivered through the Australian Graduate School of Management (AGSM) at UNSW Business School.
#1 for Business and Management
UNSW is Australia’s top university for Business and Management studies, ranked 35th globally. Learn from the top experts and academics in Australia for Business and Management studies*.
*QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2025
AHRI accredited and industry respected
Our Master of Human Resource Management is accredited by the Australian HR Institute (AHRI) giving you immediate industry recognition and professional network connections.
Most employable graduates*
UNSW is recognised for producing the most employable graduates, winning the AFR Top 100 Future Leader Awards six years in a row.
*AFR, Top 100 Future Leaders Awards 2020–2025
Why pursue a career in human resource management?
Projected employment growth by 2035
Typical salary in Australia
$135,000
Job satisfaction ranking
4 / 5
Job postings in 2025
37,328
I was able to draw on my work experience and apply real–life examples to strengthen my understanding, which helped me generate practical ideas and proposals for future initiatives.
UNSW Online student (Managing People and Organisations)
Frequently asked questions
Our Master of Human Resource Management (HRM) is an excellent choice for advancing your HR career. Designed for the future of work, this program equips you with practical skills in people-centric strategy, leadership and digital tools to optimise workplace performance. It offers flexibility with 100% online delivery and the ability to tailor your studies through electives or specialisations in areas like Human Resource Analytics, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, or Leadership and Organisational Development.
With a focus on solving business challenges and influencing organisational strategy, this degree prepares you for roles such as HR Manager, Diversity Specialist or People and Culture Consultant. UNSW’s strong rankings and dual AACSB and EQUIS accreditations further ensure the program’s quality and recognition.
Yes, the future looks bright for human resource management professionals. HR management is a rewarding career with opportunities for advancement across a variety of industries, and employment projections are expected to grow up to 21.8 per cent by 2035*. With high growth predicted, salaries are competitive, so there are many benefits to look forward to for those looking to study Human Resource Management.
No, this program is 100% online and has no on-campus requirements, allowing you to study from anywhere and fit in and around your personal and professional schedule. Discover tips on how to maximise your study while studying online.
Your previous studies can be acknowledged as credit for your online postgraduate studies if they meet relevant course requirements. If you are eligible for admission and you have undertaken previous studies at another institution, you may be eligible to apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).
Students can apply for RPL during the program application process and must ensure all relevant supporting documents are submitted for assessment if requested by Admissions, including course outlines from the same year they completed the relevant course/s, as content may change over time. Courses successfully completed within the past 10 years can be used for credit transfer within a program as provided within the program rules and the University rules on credit.
If they have completed similar courses in previous undergraduate study, Master of Human Resource Management students can claim up to 4 courses (24 units of credit) of unspecified RPL advanced standing, meaning that they can acquire the master’s program by studying a further 8 courses.
Find out more about RPL and credit transfer at UNSW. Speak with a Student Enrolment Advisor to learn more about additional requirements and to receive guidance around the RPL process.
On top of the general Master of Human Resource Management, there are three specialisations offered to students, all of which are designed to meet the current and future needs of the contemporary workforce.
- Master of Human Resource Management (Human Resource Analytics): for those who want to develop data-informed solutions to inform business processes and promote positive employee experience.
- Master of Human Resource Management (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion): for those who want to guide people-focused transformation to make a positive impact on organisations with an emphasis on employee wellbeing, sustainability and inclusion.
- Master of Human Resource Management (Leadership and Organisational Development): for those who understand that business success is more than just sales and instead relies on staff empowerment and professional development to optimise organisational performance.
Plus, you have the option to complete two specialisations, meaning you can graduate with a Master of Human Resource Management (Specialisation 1 + Specialisation 2). Alternatively, you can also continue without a specialisation, and choose more broadly from all of the electives to tailor your program to your career goals and interests.
Still not sure? Our Student Enrolment Advisors are here to help determine the right program for you. Get in touch or download a program guide.
Yes, if you are an existing student, you can use the Stream Declaration service on myUNSW (sign-on required) to view your current stream, declare your stream or change your stream. We recommend doing this as soon as possible to avoid having to complete additional study.
For new students, you can select your specialisation during the application process.
If you are unsure or have any questions, please contact your Student Success Advisor to guide you through the process.
According to Labour Market Insights, median full-time earnings for HR managers in Australia is $2,445 per week, which is significantly higher than the all-jobs median of $1,593. As of February 2023, Seek.com.au lists the expected average salary range for HR managers between $115,000 and $135,000.
Yes, our HRM program suite has been designed by industry and subject-matter experts to ensure students become equipped with future-proof skills, founded in principles of analytics, leadership, and diversity, equity, and inclusion, which are highly sought after in the contemporary business world. Additionally, the Master of Human Resource Management is accredited by the Australian HR Institute (AHRI), the nation’s leading HR industry body, ensuring the program meets the highest professional standards.
The online Master of Human Resource Management will provide you with critical skills in HR strategy and analytics to align people-focused strategy with business objectives applicable to any organisation, regardless of industry. Job roles can include:
- Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Specialist
- Director of People and Culture
- Executive Director of HR
- Employee Experience Manager
- Employment Relations Manager
- Human Resource Analyst
- Human Resource Advisor
- Leadership and Engagement Manager
- Organisational Change Specialist
- People and Culture Consultant
- Workplace Relations Manager
A Master of Human Resource Management is worth it if you want to shape the future of work and accelerate your career. As workplaces evolve, demand is growing for skilled leaders who can drive positive change, making a postgraduate qualification increasingly valuable.
When assessing if a master's is the right choice for you, consider these key factors:
- Industry Relevance: Does the program address current challenges like change management, workforce planning and data-driven decision-making?
- Flexibility: Does the study mode fit your life? A 100% online program allows you to balance work and other commitments.
- Career Outcomes: Will the degree equip you for senior HR roles and unlock opportunities across different industries?
A strong program, like the Master of Human Resource Management at UNSW Online, is designed to deliver on these areas. It builds your strategic capabilities to prepare you for leadership, ensuring your investment supports long-term career growth.
How long it takes to finish a Master of Human Resource Management depends on your study load and if you can get Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for earlier studies.
For example, you can finish the UNSW Online Master of Human Resource Management in as little as two years part time. This 100% online program is flexible, so you can fit your studies around your work and personal commitments.
In Australia, senior leadership roles in Human Resource Management (HRM) command the highest salaries. A Human Resources Director can earn an average salary of around $155,000 per year.
Other high-paying roles in the field include:
- Human Resources Manager: $135,000
- Human Resources Business Partner: $130,000
- Human Resources Consultant: $103,000
- Human Resources Adviser: $100,000
Holding a postgraduate qualification can also significantly increase your earning potential. On average, individuals with a master's degree or higher earn 18% more than those with only an undergraduate degree, highlighting the value of advanced qualifications in the job market.
Sources: Seek, Australian Financial Review
The Master of Human Resource Management (MHRM) is widely recognised as the highest HR degree for advancing a career in the field. Programs like the MHRM at UNSW Online set a strong standard, providing a direct pathway to HR leadership roles.
The Master of Human Resource Management equips you with advanced skills in strategic HR frameworks, leadership and problem-solving. Specialisations reflect industry demand, including:
- Human Resource Analytics
- Diversity Equity and Inclusion
- Leadership and Organisational Development
A Master of Human Resource Management prepares you for senior HR roles, especially when accredited by the Australian HR Institute (AHRI) as with UNSW Online. This industry-recognised qualification is a strong option for advancing into HR leadership.
A Master of Human Resource Management (MHRM) is a leading option for building a successful HR career. This qualification provides specialised pathways to match a range of career ambitions and evolving industry needs.
For example, the MHRM at UNSW offers specialisations in Human Resource Analytics, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and Leadership and Organisational Development.
- Human Resource Analytics builds capability in data-driven decision-making.
- Diversity, Equity and Inclusion develops skills for creating inclusive workplaces.
- Leadership and Organisational Development focuses on leadership and organisational change.
Accreditation matters. For example, the UNSW Online MHRM holds Australian HR Institute (AHRI) accreditation, ensuring industry-recognised standards and practical outcomes.
Human Resource Management (HRM) skills are in strong demand across Australia as organisations adapt to changing workplace needs. Earning a Master of Human Resource Management can help you develop the expertise required to progress in this evolving field.
For example, the UNSW Online Master of Human Resource Management features specialisations in human resource analytics, diversity equity and inclusion, and leadership and organisational development, supporting a range of industry-focused career pathways.
Look for industry-recognised programs, such as those accredited by the Australian HR Institute (AHRI), delivered 100% online, so you can balance your studies with work and other commitments.
While it’s possible to start a career in HR through entry-level roles or administrative experience, a formal qualification can significantly enhance your career trajectory.
This type of program deepens your understanding of HR principles while equipping you with specialised skills in high-demand areas, including:
- Human Resource Analytics
- Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
- Leadership and Organisational Development
Delivered 100% online, these programs offer the flexibility to upskill while managing work and other commitments. Accreditation from the Australian HR Institute (AHRI) ensures you graduate with industry-recognised expertise, providing a competitive edge in Australia’s HR market. This opens pathways to senior and specialised roles, and a program like the Master of Human Resource Management from UNSW Online is designed to help you achieve these goals.
You do not need to reside in a specific country to study Human Resource Management (HRM) at a top global university. Many leading institutions now offer degrees 100% online, allowing you to access world-class education from anywhere.
The Master of Human Resource Management at UNSW is an example of a program that offers this global accessibility. Ranked in the global top 20 (QS World University Rankings), it provides industry-relevant learning designed to fit around professional and personal commitments.
To ensure career readiness, the program offers specialisations such as:
- Human Resource Analytics
- Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
- Leadership and Organisational Development
This flexible approach equips you with the skills and qualifications to excel in the HR sector, regardless of your physical location.
To become an HR manager in Australia, you need a combination of education and experience.
A postgraduate qualification, such as the Master of Human Resource Management from UNSW, is a strong option for developing the advanced skills and knowledge required for senior roles. UNSW offers specialisations closely aligned with industry demand, including:
- Human Resource Analytics
- Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
- Leadership and Organisational Development
Alongside formal education, gaining practical experience in roles like HR Assistant or Advisor is crucial for building a successful career. Look for programs with accreditation from professional bodies like the Australian HR Institute (AHRI), as this can enhance your career prospects and position you for leadership roles in Australia.
It depends on your goals. An MBA provides broad business knowledge and is ideal if you're aiming for general leadership roles across industries.
The Master of Human Resource Management from UNSW is designed for those seeking specialised skills in HR, with a focus on strategic HR management and leadership.
Our suite of Human Resource Management programs at UNSW are designed to empower, inspire and equip aspiring HR leaders with the necessary insights to navigate the complexities of the modern workforce.
With specialisations in HR Analytics, Diversity Equity and Inclusion and Leadership and Organisational Development, students will gain deepened expertise in people-centric strategy to complement organisational objectives. By delving into these integral areas of contemporary HR, students will gain an industry-relevant toolkit to transform their careers and contribute significantly to their organisation.
Dr Helen Parker
Academic Lead for UNSW Online Human Resource Management Programs
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