International Human Resource Management and Internationales Personalmanagement

International Human Resource Management at Hof University of Applied Sciences offers students a comprehensive education in the strategic and operational aspects of human resources within an international context. The program is designed to prepare future HR professionals for the complexities of managing multicultural and diverse workforces in today’s globalized economy. Students will gain in-depth knowledge of core HR functions such as recruitment, employer branding, talent development, labor law, and compensation management, all supplemented by insights into cross-cultural communication, international labor standards, and global HR strategies.

Throughout the program, students are encouraged to develop practical skills through case studies, projects, and internships that provide real-world experience in international HR environments. The coursework emphasizes intercultural competence, leadership, negotiation skills, and ethical considerations in HR management. Participants will explore contemporary challenges faced by HR professionals, including digital transformation, diversity and inclusion initiatives, and strategic workforce planning.

The program also highlights the importance of understanding legal frameworks and cultural differences across various countries, fostering a global mindset necessary for successful HR management in multinational corporations. The curriculum is aligned with current industry standards and incorporates the latest trends and innovations in human resource management. Graduates will be equipped to pursue careers in HR departments, consulting firms, international organizations, and multinational companies, where they can effectively contribute to organizational success through strategic HR practices.

Creating an international network of peers and professionals, students will enhance their intercultural communication skills and build lasting relationships that support their future careers. The program combines theoretical foundations with practical application, preparing students to become responsible, innovative, and adaptable HR leaders. With a focus on international perspectives, Hof University’s International Human Resource Management program aims to shape the next generation of global HR practitioners capable of navigating the complexities of the global labor market and contributing to sustainable organizational development worldwide.

Educational organisation

The first two semesters comprise 12 modules (basic modules and electives).

The basic modules are:
Leadership
Change Management
Compliance and Ethics in Organisations
International Project Management
Controlling
Strategy and Financial Frameworks
Studying and Working in Germany / Communication and Negotiation Skills

Electives include:
Technical and Legal Aspects of Data Security
International Buyer Behaviour
Product and Service Design
Trends in Supply Chain Management
Marketing and Competitor Research in B-to-B Markets
Principles of Business-to-Business Brand Management
Multi-Channel B-to-B Marketing
Market-Oriented Sales and Pricing Strategies in International B-to-B Markets
International Strategic Sales
Customer Relations Management
International Trends: impact of the Internet of things on internal and external marketing
Factory Planning and Engineering
Production Process Excellence
Quality Management
Strategic Procurement and Supplier Management
Web-Based Data Management and Data Processing
Web-Based Data Collection and Data Transport
German Language I
German Language II

In the third and fourth semesters, students work as interns in a company and write their Master's theses.

Internships

The third and fourth semesters are spent working as an intern in a company.

Course objectives

The programme prepares students for management tasks in various divisions of a company. Graduates of the programme will be able to assume leadership positions in foreign branches of German companies or German branches of foreign companies.

Language requirements

Applicants must be proficient in English: TOEFL 90 (Test of English as a Foreign Language), IELTS 6.5 (International English Language Testing Systems) or the equivalent.

Academic requirements

Bachelor's degree, German Diploma ("Diplom") or similar from an accredited university in Economics, Business, Engineering, Natural Sciences or the Humanities
English language proficiency (TOEFL 90 or IELTS 6.5)

Enrolment fees

About 100 EUR per semester. The fee includes a semester ticket covering public transport within the city of Hof.

Costs of living

Approx. 650 EUR per month

Arrival support

Pick-up service from Hof train station, orientation weeks for international students at the beginning of each semester, assistance in finding accommodation

Accommodation

The Housing Office supports international students in finding appropriate accommodation in Hof or Münchberg.

Housing Office
Hochschule Hof
Alfons-Goppel-Platz 1
95028 Hof
Germany

Phone: +49 (0) 92 81-4 09 31 77
Fax: +49 (0) 92 81-4 09 55 31 77
E-mail: borbala.thurnay@hof-university.de

Rent for a single room in a student residence is approximately 250 EUR plus additional costs for electricity. Rent for a private one-room apartment is approx. 300-400 EUR plus additional costs for water, heating, and electricity.