Employment Relations and Organisation Studies

Employment Relations and Organisation Studies at the University of Auckland offers students a comprehensive understanding of how organizations function, how employment relationships are managed, and how workplace cultures are shaped. This program is designed to equip students with critical analytical skills, practical knowledge, and interdisciplinary perspectives necessary for careers in human resource management, industrial relations, organizational development, and related fields. Throughout the programme, students explore core topics such as employment law, bargaining and negotiation, workplace conflict resolution, strategic human resource management, and organizational behaviour. They also gain insights into contemporary issues affecting workplaces worldwide, including diversity and inclusion, technological change, and global labor markets. The curriculum combines theoretical frameworks with practical applications, such as case studies, projects, and internships, to prepare graduates for real-world challenges. Students will develop competencies in communication, problem-solving, ethical decision-making, and leadership, all essential for fostering positive organizational environments. The program emphasizes the importance of understanding legal and ethical considerations in employment relations, as well as the impact of organizational policies on employee wellbeing and productivity. Graduates are well-positioned to pursue diverse careers, including HR consultancy, union leadership, corporate HR roles, labor policy analysis, and academic research. The University of Auckland’s strong connections with industry and research excellence ensure students benefit from updated content, expert faculty, and networking opportunities. By the end of the programme, students will have a solid foundation in employment relations and organisation studies, preparing them to contribute effectively to creating fair, productive, and sustainable workplaces across various sectors locally and internationally.

From 2012 there are two separate MA options, depending on your entrance pathway.

120-point (one-year) MA

The 120-point MA requires one year of full-time study, with admission from a BA(Hons) or PGDipArts. The MA in Employment Relations and Organisation Studies is available as a research masters.

• 120 points: GLMI 796 Thesis

240-point (two-year) MA

The 240-point MA requires two consecutive years of full-time study, with admission from a BA or approved equivalent qualification. The MA in Employment Relations and Organisation Studies is available as a research masters.

• Research masters: the first year typically consists of 120 points of 700-level taught courses as specified for the subject. In the second year you will complete a 120-point thesis or research portfolio. For some subjects the second year may consist of a 90-point thesis and 30 points from 700-level courses.
• Taught masters: 240 points of 700-level courses as specified for the subject, including a research component of at least 45 points.

You may be permitted to include up to 60 points from other MA subjects, or other 700-level courses at this University, or from approved study at a university outside New Zealand.

120-point, one-year MA

• A BA (Hons), PGDipArts or equivalent qualification in the intended subject with an average grade of B or higher
• Individual subjects and research masters may have higher or additional requirements. 
• Approval from the relevant Head of School or nominee.

240-point, two-year MA

• A Bachelor of Arts or equivalent qualification
• A pass in the prerequisite courses specified for the subject (usually a major in the subject) with an average grade of B or higher in at least 45 points above Stage II
• Individual subjects may have higher or additional requirements. 
• Approval from the relevant Head of School or nominee

To progess to the second year of the MA

In the first 120 points of MA enrolment, you must achieve:

• An average grade of B, or
• For a research masters, the grade specified for enrolment in a thesis or research portfolio in your subject

If you do not achieve the required grade, enrolment for the MA cannot continue.

Documents to support your application

• Birth Certificate, or Relevant pages of your passport, or Citizenship Certificate.
• ID photo
• your official academic transcript
• your official programme completion certificate
• your mark sheets
• your relevant course outlines (3)
• IELTS or TOEFL or equivalent.

Minimum postgraduate English language requirements

• IELTS (Academic): Overall score of 6.5 and all bands 6.0 or better
• Internet-based TOEFL (iBT): Overall score of 90 plus a written score of 21
• Paper-based TOEFL: Overall score of 575 plus Essay (TWE) of 4.5
• Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) and Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE): Overall score of 176 and all bands 169 or better
• Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic: Overall score of 58 and no PTE communicative skills score below 50. You must authorise the University to view and verify your PTE scores. 
• Michigan English Language Assessment Battery (MELAB): 85

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The University of Auckland provides a variety of different scholarships:

• University of Auckland International Student Scholarships
• Faculty of Arts International Masters Degree Scholarships

The Bachelor of Commerce in Employment Relations and Organisation Studies at the University of Auckland is designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills related to the management of workplaces and the development of effective employment strategies. This program offers an in-depth understanding of employment relationships, labor laws, industrial relations, organisational behaviour, human resource management, and contemporary issues affecting workplaces locally and globally. Through a blend of theoretical frameworks and real-world applications, students are prepared to address complex employment challenges, promote fair and productive work environments, and contribute to organisational success.

The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, negotiation, conflict resolution, and strategic planning, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for leadership roles in diverse sectors such as government, private enterprise, non-profit organizations, and consultancy firms. Students will explore issues surrounding employee motivation, diversity and inclusion, workplace safety, and employment legislation, enabling them to develop innovative solutions to contemporary employment problems. Practical components such as internships, case studies, and industry projects are integrated into the program to enhance experiential learning and foster connections with industry professionals.

Graduates from the Employment Relations and Organisation Studies program are sought after for roles including human resource managers, industrial relations specialists, organizational development consultants, labor relations advisors, and policy analysts. The program also provides a strong foundation for students considering further academic research or professional qualifications in employment law, HR management, or organizational psychology. The university’s facilities and faculty expertise ensure students receive up-to-date knowledge informed by current research and industry practice.

The program typically takes three years to complete on a full-time basis, with options for part-time study or specialization in certain areas depending on student interests. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities such as workshops, seminars, and student organizations related to employment relations to enhance their learning experience and professional network. The University of Auckland's strong connections with industry partners and alumni networks provide valuable employment opportunities post-graduation, making this program a robust pathway towards a rewarding career in employment relations and organizational management.