International Master of Business Administration (Human Resource Management)
Degree Level Postgraduate
Year 2025
You're viewing degree information for Australian students
You're considered an Australian student if you are any of the following:
- Australian or New Zealand Citizen
- Australian Permanent Resident (including Permanent Humanitarian Visa holders)
Mode
On-campus/Online
Fees
$AU 34,200 per 1.0 EFTSL for students enrolled in 2025
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Entry requirements
Applicants are required to have one of the following:
- A completed bachelor degree from a recognised higher education institution or equivalent; or
- A completed graduate diploma from a recognised higher education institution; or
- A completed graduate certificate from a recognised higher education institution.
Applicants who have:
- completed a bachelor degree in a business discipline; or
- completed a bachelor degree which includes a major in business, commerce, marketing or management; or
- completed a graduate certificate in a business discipline,
are eligible to enter the program with 0.5 EFTSL (18 units) Advanced Standing and complete the program in 1.5 years of full time study or equivalent part time study.
Degree overview
- Study at a university recognised globally for Business. UniSA Business is accredited by both AACSB International and EFMD (EQUIS) – the world’s leading accreditation bodies.
- A two-year IMBA with a global focus that does not require previous work experience.
- Provides early-career professionals with advanced management knowledge and skills to excel in international business.
- Learn about business strategy, leadership, data analytics, global marketing, accounting for management, and much more
- Both on campus and mixed mode study options are available, providing you with flexibility throughout your studies.
- Gain real-world experience as part of your studies through an optional internship, student exchange or mentorship opportunity.
- Qualify for Advanced Standing from previous qualifications and complete your degree in just 1.5 years.
- Receive mentoring from a senior business leader through the Executive Partners Program.
- Develop career-ready skills employers are looking for once you graduate with enterprise skills embedded in all business courses within this program.
- Study a curriculum informed by above world-class research in Human Resource Management1.
- UniSA Business is ranked in the top one per cent worldwide and has been awarded an overall five stars for excellence2.
- Study at the #1 Business School in SA, and Top 5 business school in Australia for quality3.
- Experience UniSA’s campus facilities, ranked in the Top 5 in Australia for Business and Management4.
12018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA). 2UniSA Business is one of just 13 institutions in Australia and approximately 200 globally (from over 25,000 universities) to be EQUIS accredited. EFMD, March 2024. 2023 QS Stars Business School Ratings. 3Australian Financial Review BOSS Best Business Schools List 2024. 4Ranked #4 (Undergraduate) and #5 (Postgraduate), ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2021-22, Learning Resources Indicator. Public universities
Snapshot
Are you an early-career professional looking to progress your career in an international business context?
This degree will develop your knowledge of the global business environment and enable you to maximise your career development opportunities and employment prospects. You will benefit from a range of experience-based learning opportunities, including overseas study and business mentoring by a senior business leader through the Executive Partners Program.
Your studies will focus on international business strategy, international trade, global marketing, and employment law – the knowledge you will need to accelerate your career as a business professional in an international context.
What you'll learn
The two year program comprises 16 courses, including 4 electives and an industry placement/project. You will start with seven core courses common to all specialisations in the IMBA. Through these you will develop advanced skills and expertise in areas of international management including:
- global business environment
- people leadership and performance
- economic principles for business
- fundamentals of data analytics
You will then move into your human resource management specialisation studying areas such as recruitment and selection, people analytics and strategic management of human resources.
Study hours
For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects, as well as to contribute to online discussion forums. So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12–26 hours of study when at university and 14–28 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
Your courses will incorporate practical, professional and research-based learning. Assessments may include:
- case studies and reports
- essays and assignments
- examinations
- industry-relevant project
- oral or online presentation
- journals or portfolios
- work placements
Global opportunities
Enrich your studies and your life – make overseas study part of your qualification. You may have the option to undertake an exchange, short-term program or study tour overseas while you study. We have links with universities worldwide, as well as a range of travel grants available to make going overseas much more accessible.
You can choose short-term or semester-long study from a range of universities and countries depending on your area of study and cultural interests.
Take a look at the global opportunities available.
Research
Working closely with industry, UniSA generates high quality enterprising research that informs our curriculum and tackles real world problems. We are renowned for our concentration of global thought-leaders and academic experts in the areas of marketing, human resource management, tourism and events management, logistics and supply chains, applied economics, business analytics, and international business.
Our curriculum is informed by our research expertise which is ranked ‘Above World-Class’ in Business, Management, Marketing and Tourism in the 2018 Excellence in Research (ERA) rankings. This program is taught by leading business experts from our broad range of research concentrations, institutes and centres.
Why International Master of Business Administration (Human Resource Management)
This two-year IMBA provides professionals with advanced knowledge and management skills for international business. It does not require previous work experience.
Courses are designed in consultation with industry professionals, so you’ll learn through real-life case studies and develop the knowledge and expertise you need to address today’s global business challenges.
You'll gain real world insights through UniSA’s global business focus, executive knowledge and networks. Graduate with the knowledge, skills and experience to succeed in your future career—no matter where in the world you choose to work.
UniSA Business is the only business school in South Australia accredited by both AACSB International (The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) and EFMD (EQUIS) – the world’s leading accreditation bodies recognising excellence in business education and research at a global level. These dual accreditations demonstrate the high standards we hold across all areas such as teaching, student learning and research, as well as our commitment to continually improving the quality of our programs.
The Human Resource Management (HRM) specialisation is designed and taught by academics actively involved in collaborative industry research. Courses draw on international research and professional experience both locally and abroad, so they are relevant, practical and applicable to today’s environment. You will develop the expertise and skills for effective professional practice as an HRM specialist.
An enriching student experience
Our flexible delivery and extra-curricular opportunities are designed to suit your lifestyle, preferred way of learning and career interests. You can benefit from a blend of online and on-campus study, part-time or full-time learning, Summer and Winter School intensive courses, mentoring and networking opportunities with industry, and leadership skill development. You can also explore accelerated learning pathways and seek program support from our Business Student Hub.
Discover more
Hear from Executive Director: MBA and Executive Education about what makes our International Master of Business Administration unique, and what opportunities you can make the most of as a UniSA student.
Your career
An International Master of Business Administration (Human Resource Management), will provide you with specialist skills in human resource management and equip you to pursue international career opportunities in roles such as:
- Chief HR officer: working with senior management teams; developing and implementing workforce policies and practices; creating competitive remuneration strategies and performance management frameworks; acting as regulatory adviser for complex industrial relations matters
- Human resources manager: designing, organising and implementing human resources strategies, policies and programs; overseeing recruitment, performance management, and learning and development
- People and culture manager: overseeing day to day people and culture activities; talent acquisition; employee relations and training and development; implementing and executing strategic employee engagement initiatives
Industry facts
Applying to study with us:
- go to the top of this page and make note of the relevant SATAC code (see below) then click Apply
- you will be redirected through to the SATAC website to continue your application
You may be eligible for Advanced Standing. When applying through SATAC, please refer to the codes below. If you are uncertain about your eligibility, please include more than one SATAC code in your list of application preferences.
- 2 years - SATAC CODE 4CM190
- 1.5 years - SATAC CODE 4CM191
What is Advanced Standing?
Advanced Standing for previous studies means you can complete the requirements of this qualification in less than 2 years. You can apply if you have successfully completed one of these (please see entry requirements for further details):
- bachelor degree in a business discipline
- bachelor degree which includes a major in business, commerce, marketing or management
- graduate certificate in a business discipline
Alternative Pathways
Australian
If you would like to strengthen your business knowledge with a shorter qualification, the Graduate Certificate in Business (four courses) may suit you. This provides an entry pathway into the International Master of Business Administration Program.
International
If you would like to strengthen your business knowledge with a shorter qualification, the Graduate Certificate in Business (four courses) may suit you. This provides an entry pathway into the International Master of Business Administration Program.
Scholarships
Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more.
Scholarship for student leadership
Available for students who are interested in undertaking specified activities with the aim of enhancing the overall student experience at UniSA.
International travel grants
Travel Grants are available to participate in our Study Overseas Programs. UniSA has agreement with over 80 institutions globally.
Your study experience and support
Our campuses have fantastic facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, tech zones, and spaces that simulate real work environments. You’ll also find student gyms and campus sport activities to keep you active. We also offer flexible study options, with online resources available for accessing lecture recordings, virtual classrooms, library resources and learning support.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation and private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages, or explore our student accommodation by Scape on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, an ideal location for students. It is within easy reach of UniSA’s city and metropolitan campuses, Rundle Mall shopping, the Central Market, Chinatown, and the West End’s vibrant nightlife. It is also across the road from the Adelaide train station, and on bus and tram routes.
Student services
The Business Student Hub is a dedicated and convenient support service for business students, from first year right through to graduation. The team provides expert advice on study options, elective choices and any academic difficulties, and can help with referrals to support services across the University. The Business Student Hub is there to facilitate your life at university, so you get the most out of your UniSA experience.
You can also access a range of other student services including:
- academic counselling
- personal counselling
- social support services, including family support and nearby childcare
- common rooms
- prayer rooms
- security officers
- Wirringka Student Services, offering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students a supportive place to study
- UniSA’s Student Association, USASA, also provides a range of other services.
We also offer study support from our Learning Advisers which you can work with face-to-face or online. They are here to help you develop academically and professionally during your studies.
When you become a UniSA student you can contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your ID cards, fees and any other questions you might have.
24/7 digital environment
With interactive online course materials and a 24/7 learning environment you can organise your study to suit your lifestyle. You can:
- study online, including accessing videos and course resources
- participate in virtual classrooms
- submit your assignments and get feedback online
- use forums and discussion boards for team work and communication
Our learnonline facilities include a personal learning environment with virtual classrooms, lecture recordings, emails, learning support, administration, library access and results. The environment is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can tailor your learning to your life. We are continually investing in innovative digital technologies for a high-quality student learning experience.
Please note some on-campus attendance (such as to attend seminars, workshops or examinations) and/or placements may apply. Any requirements like this are detailed on individual course pages.
Your program director
With well over 30 years of extensive business-linked experience both nationally and internationally, I maintain a long held commitment to preparing students to become the business professionals and leaders of the future. As the Program Director I see how students who undertake this program develop advanced knowledge and skills in business but are also empowered with the confidence to graduate career-ready and achieve their future career goals.
Ask UniSA
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How do I apply?
The way you apply for UniSA will depend on the undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree you're interested in studying.
The majority of applications are made via the South Australian Tertiary Admissions Centre (SATAC). Check out more information on the SATAC website and follow the appropriate process for your degree of interest.
There are a small number of degrees that you need to apply for through direct application processes. The process you need to follow will be listed on the 'How to Apply' section of the degree homepage, but you'll also be taken to where you need to go if you hit the 'apply' button.
If you are interested in studying one of our 100% online degrees you'll need to apply directly to UniSA Online.
You can find more information about the application processes for UniSA on our How to Apply webpage.
If you're more interested in applying for a postgraduate degree by research, check out and follow the information in our step by step guide to applying. -
Is there a closing date for applications?
Applications for all degrees will close ahead of study commencing, but the timelines may vary for undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.
Undergraduate
The deadline to apply to study a degree at UniSA for semester one (commencing late February) and be guaranteed equal consideration is generally in very late November or early December. While you may be able to apply after this date, you are not guaranteed to be considered equally with other applicants and your application may not be assessed in time for the main round of offers. More competitive degrees may not make any offers after the main offer round. Find more information on the Key Dates section of the SATAC website, but you can also call the Future Student Enquiries team for more information on 08 8302 376.
Postgraduate
Many postgraduate by coursework degrees do not have set closing dates. The exceptions are highly competitive degrees, so it is best to check – either on the degree homepage on the SATAC website or by checking with our Future Student Enquiries team.
As most postgraduate applications are assessed as they are submitted and offers are continuous, there are no set closing dates for applications. Degrees can be filled and closed with little notice so it is best to apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out on a place. For more information, please contact our Future Student Enquires team on (08) 8302 2376 or submit an enquiry.
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What credit can I receive for previous studies?
You may be eligible for credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area and completed within a certain timeframe. Receiving credit or RPL will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree. You can read more about our pre-existing credit agreements through our online Credit Assessor. If you have related industry experience, you may also be eligible to receive recognised prior learning (RPL) for this experience. Credit and RPL is assessed by the Program Director once you've received an offer, and you apply through UniSA's current student experts, Campus Central.
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Can I speak to someone regarding my study options?
Future Student Enquiries welcomes the opportunity to meet with you to discuss your study options at UniSA. We can discuss degree information, entry requirements and pathways, applications, general career outcomes and student life, so you have the information to make the best study decision for your future. Head to our Book an Appointment webpage to find a date and time to speak with us, and take your next steps on journey to university study.
What others are saying
When hiring staff, I look for a suite of five skills. I look for their ability to communicate and engage in meaningful conversations, their commitment to learning, team orientation, personal leadership, as well as their professional skill set. My advice for HR professionals is to invest in your own development - whether that be through studying, reading, attending presentations or being great at asking questions!
Samantha Wilkinson
Owner and Principal Consultant | Samantha Wilkinson Human Resource Consulting
