MBA Specialisation Strategic Human Resource Management

The Master of Business Administration with a specialization in Strategic Human Resource Management at the University of Southern Queensland is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and practical skills necessary for leadership roles in the dynamic field of human resources. This program integrates core business management principles with specialized HR strategies, fostering a deep understanding of organizational behavior, talent acquisition, employee development, and workforce planning. Students will explore modern HR practices, including change management, performance appraisal, remuneration, and legal considerations, ensuring they are prepared to effectively manage human capital in diverse organizational contexts. The curriculum emphasizes strategic thinking, ethical decision-making, and effective communication, enabling graduates to align HR initiatives with broader business objectives. Through a combination of theoretical coursework, case studies, and real-world projects, learners will develop critical problem-solving abilities and proficiency in HR analytics. The program is suitable for professionals seeking to advance their careers in human resources or transition into strategic leadership roles within organizations. It aims to foster innovative approaches to HR management while promoting ethical and socially responsible practices. Graduates of this program will be well-positioned to contribute to organizational success through effective people management, organizational development, and strategic planning. The University of Southern Queensland leverages a flexible online delivery mode, allowing students to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments. Upon completion, students will earn a recognized qualification that opens pathways to senior HR management, consultancy, and organizational leadership roles. The program is underpinned by industry engagement, ensuring that curriculum content remains relevant to current HR trends and challenges.

Program structure

Courses to be studiedUnits

Core courses8 units

plus 1 x specialisation14 units

Total12 units

Course codeCourse name

Core Courses:

ACC5502Accounting and Financial Management

CIS8000Global Information Systems Strategy

ECO5000Economics for Managers 

MBA8000Applied Business Research and Ethics 

MGT5000Managing Organisational Behaviour 

MGT8022Project-Based Management 

MGT8033Leading Organisational Change 

MKT5000Marketing Management 

Strategic Human Resource Management Specialisation: 

MGT8002Strategic Management 

MGT8030Performance Management and People Development 

MGT8039Strategic Leadership 

MGT8034Strategic Management of Human Resources and Innovation 

1 Must include the capstone course MGT8002.

Entry requirements

• Graduate Certificate with a GPA of 4 on a 7 point scale
• plus
• Minimum of 2 years full-time work experience1

*USQ’s Graduate Certificate of Business provides a pathway into the Master of Business Administration for students who meet the work experience requirements but do not hold a Graduate Certificate at AQF level 8 or equivalent.

Supporting evidence for program admission

Academic qualifications are proven by certified copies of completed qualifications.

Evidence of work experience is proven through:

• Curriculum vitae or professional LinkedIn profile which provides evidence of work experience, including:
  • Organisation name
  • Position title
  • Start and end dates of employment for each position
  • Type of employment (full-time, part-time or casual)
  • Key duties, responsibilities and achievements.
• Names, position titles and contact details of referees (employers or supervisors) who will be able to verify the nature of your work for the period of 2 years. Referees may be contacted by USQ and should be able to provide details on responsibilities including but not limited to: managing people or client accounts, managerial responsibilities for any major projects and/or financial delegation accountabilities.

English Language Requirements

Domestic and international students from a non-English speaking background are required to satisfy English Language requirements. This program requires a minimum of IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.

If you do not meet the English language requirements you may apply to study a University-approved English language program.

International entry requirements

English Language Requirements

Domestic and international students from a non-English speaking background are required to satisfy English Language requirements. This program requires a minimum of IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.

If you do not meet the English language requirements you may apply to study a University-approved English language program.

Supporting evidence for program admission

Academic qualifications are proven by certified copies of completed qualifications.

Evidence of work experience is proven through:

• Curriculum vitae or professional LinkedIn profile which provides evidence of work experience, including:
  • Organisation name
  • Position title
  • Start and end dates of employment for each position
  • Type of employment (full-time, part-time or casual)
  • Key duties, responsibilities and achievements.
• Names, position titles and contact details of referees (employers or supervisors) who will be able to verify the nature of your work for the period of 2 years. Referees may be contacted by USQ and should be able to provide details on responsibilities including but not limited to: managing people or client accounts, managerial responsibilities for any major projects and/or financial delegation accountabilities.

Prerequisites

• Graduate Certificate with a GPA of 4 on a 7 point scale
• plus
• Minimum of 2 years full-time work experience1

*USQ’s Graduate Certificate of Business provides a pathway into the Master of Business Administration for students who meet the work experience requirements but do not hold a Graduate Certificate at AQF level 8 or equivalent.

The University of Southern Queensland offers various pathways for financing the Master of Business Administration with a specialization in Strategic Human Resource Management. Students can access a range of financial assistance options to support their studies, including government-funded programs, scholarships, and payment plans. Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) are available for eligible domestic students, allowing them to benefit from subsidized tuition fees, which significantly reduces the financial burden of postgraduate studies. For students not eligible for CSP, tuition fees follow the standard fee schedule, which can be paid upfront or through structured payment plans offered by the university.

The university provides flexible payment options to accommodate students' financial situations, including upfront payment discounts, interest-free payment plans, or deferred payment arrangements. International students are generally required to pay tuition fees in full before enrollment, but individual circumstances may vary, and they are encouraged to contact the university's admissions office for tailored financial advice.

Students are also encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities, which the University of Southern Queensland promotes through its website and partner organizations. These scholarships may cover partial or full tuition costs and often have specific eligibility criteria, such as academic excellence, leadership qualities, or financial need. The university periodically offers institutional scholarships for postgraduate students, rewarding outstanding academic performance or offering support to students demonstrating financial hardship.

Additionally, students can consider government loans or financial aid options available in their home country, depending on their residency and eligibility. The university may assist eligible students in navigating these external funding sources, providing guidance on application procedures and eligibility requirements.

For those who require financial assistance beyond scholarships and government aid, the university's Student Financial Support Service offers advice on budgeting, financial planning, and accessing external funding sources. The university emphasizes its commitment to making postgraduate education accessible and affordable and encourages prospective students to explore all available financial options.

Overall, financing studies at the University of Southern Queensland for the MBA in Strategic Human Resource Management involves a combination of potential government support, scholarships, flexible payment options, and external financial aid, designed to support a diverse student body in achieving their academic and career goals.

The Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a specialization in Strategic Human Resource Management at the University of Southern Queensland is designed to equip students with the advanced skills and knowledge required to lead and manage human resources effectively within various organizational contexts. This program emphasizes strategic thinking, leadership, and the development of HR policies that align with overall business objectives. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of core business functions such as finance, marketing, and operations, alongside specialized topics in human resource management, including talent acquisition, employee relations, and performance management.

The curriculum incorporates contemporary issues in HR, including diversity and inclusion, change management, and ethical considerations in HR practices. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical applications, students are prepared to address complex HR challenges, develop strategic HR initiatives, and contribute to organizational success at a high level. The program is suitable for professionals seeking to advance their careers into senior HR roles or transition into strategic management positions.

The university offers flexible learning options, including online study, allowing students to balance their studies with professional and personal commitments. This program typically includes coursework, case studies, projects, and opportunities for engagement with industry through internships or networking events. Graduates of the MBA in Strategic Human Resource Management at USQ are well-equipped to pursue leadership roles in HR departments, consultancy firms, or broader management roles that require a strong understanding of strategic human resource practices.

The University of Southern Queensland ensures that its programs are delivered by experienced academics and industry practitioners, maintaining a focus on practical skills and contemporary industry standards. Admission requirements generally include a relevant undergraduate degree and professional experience, although specific criteria may vary. Upon completion, graduates receive an internationally recognized qualification that opens doors to diverse career opportunities in the global business environment.