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Empower people and drive performance.

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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
  • Current Step 1
  • Step 2
  • Step 3
  • Complete

Overview

Building resilient, forward-thinking organisations requires more than just technical HR skills. It demands the vision to lead transformative change and the expertise to cultivate high-performing teams. This has created a growing demand for specialists who can foster effective leadership and develop resilient, high-performing cultures.

A Master of Human Resource Management with a specialisation in Leadership and Organisational Development equips you with the skills employers value. This program prepares you to tackle complex workplace challenges by combining strategic insight with compassionate, people-focused leadership. You'll learn to design and implement initiatives that open doors to new career opportunities and drive transformative change at the company, managerial and individual levels. 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 (Leadership and Organisational Development) 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. This ensures you are equipped to excel in high-impact roles that shape organisational strategy and support high-performing teams.

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 | Specialisation code: ZZBUHS

The UNSW Online Master of Human Resource Management (Leadership and Organisational Development) includes 12 courses – six core and six electives. This gives you the option to use your remaining elective courses to graduate with a second specialisation.

 

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
  • Organisational Development
  • Leadership Development

 

Elective courses
Pick six electives from the list below, or choose two electives and follow the specialisation guide in the program guide, to graduate with a dual specialisation degree.

  • Managing Yourself and Others
  • Financial Management
  • Strategic Consulting Project
  • Employee Wellbeing and Engagement
  • Sustainability and Human Resources
  • Human Resource Analytics
  • Attracting, Evaluating and Retaining Talent
  • Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
  • Human Resource Information Systems
  • Strategic Rewards and Performance Management
  • Change Management
  • Introductory Data Analysis
  • Managing People, Analytics and Change

 

Specialisations

Are you interested in a dual Human Resource Management specialisation? Select from:

Or do you want a different Human Resource Management specialisation? Select from:

The online Master of Human Resource Management (Leadership and Organisational Development) will provide you with specialist skills in leadership, HR strategy and change management to successfully lead organisations and employees through challenges and times of change. Job roles can include:

  • Culture Manager
  • Employee Experience Manager
  • Leadership & Engagement Manager
  • Human Resource Manager
  • Organisational Change Manager
  • Organisational Development Lead/Coordinator/Manager
  • Senior Training Officer

General admission requirements

To be eligible for the Master of Human Resource Management (Leadership and Organisational Development), 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, 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 (Leadership and Organisational Development) 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

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.

#1 for graduate outcomes

UNSW produces the most employable graduates* who earn the highest average salaries in Australia*.

*AFR, Top 100 Future Leaders Awards, 2020-2025

*Australia, QILT Graduate Outcomes Survey, 2023

Why pursue a career in human resource management?

Projected employment growth by 2035

21.8%

Typical salary in Australia

 

$135,000

 

Job satisfaction rating

 

4 / 5

 

Job postings in 2025

37,328 

 

I really enjoyed the course content. It was comprehensive, practical and interesting. My focus was to further learn in leadership and apply it in my career and business.

UNSW Online student (Leadership Development)

Frequently asked questions

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. 

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.

 

You also have the option to complete two specialisations, meaning you can graduate with a Master of Human Resource Management (specialisation 1 and specialisation 2). 

Alternatively, you can also continue without a specialisation, and choose more broadly from all the electives to tailor your program to your career goals and interests. 

Still not sure? Our Student Advisors are here to help determine the right program for you. Get in touch or download a program guide

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. 

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. 

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 Human Resource Management Programs

Image
UNSW Faculty Dr Helen Parker

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Advance your career with UNSW Online’s intentionally designed programs. Flexible, innovative and tailored to your ambitions, our programs empower you to achieve your goals and make an impact in your field. Explore your options and take the first step towards success today.

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