Strategic Human Resource Management (Online)
Learn how HR strategies strengthen organisational performance and employee wellbeing in national and multinational businesses. Enquire NowTalk to an AdvisorStrategic Human Resource Management (Online)
Learn how HR strategies strengthen organisational performance and employee wellbeing in national and multinational businesses. Enquire NowTalk to an AdvisorRecommended Background
No specific experience or qualifications required.
University Entrance (or equivalent required for admission)
Only available to NZ citizens and permanent residents over 20 years old.
Duration
10 weeks
Next start dates
15 September 2025 (2025 Quarter Four)
Enrolment closes one week before the course starts. Apply early to secure your spot.
Domestic Fees*
$1,370.40 (estimate)
Why is this course right for you?
This course is designed for busy professionals like you, as part of the Master of Business Management (MBM) or as a standalone Certificate of Proficiency.
Discover how smart HR strategies can improve company performance, while supporting employee well-being. You’ll learn how to create effective HR plans, put them into action, and overcome common HR challenges along the way.
By the end, you’ll have sharpened your skills in problem-solving, communication, and critical thinking — making you better equipped to lead and make an impact in your organisation.
Upon completion, you may wish to progress your studies further towards a formal qualification and can count this course towards the Master of Business Management in Strategic Management or Human Resource Management (entry criteria and time limits apply).
Course Structure
Over the 10 weeks of this course, you will be going through the following 6 modules and 3 assignments.
Human Resource Management (HRM): Why should we care really?
This module debunks common misconceptions about HRM and highlights its central role in strategy execution. Emphasises that HRM involves all managers, not just HR departments.
What does ‘strategic’ mean in HRM?
This module explores three key themes:
- The resource-based view of the firm, emphasizing human resources as strategic assets
- The debate between ‘best practice’ versus ‘best fit’ approaches
- The added value of HRM, backed by empirical evidence
Students will understand the concept of equifinality in HRM.
Is the mutual gains model of HRM rhetoric or reality?
This module analyses the mutual gains model, balancing benefits for employers and employees, while critically examining potential pitfalls like work intensification and job insecurity, drawing on black-box research.
Assignment: Scenario Analysis & Reflection I
This assignment will be 20% of your grade.
Variability issues: Does HRM fulfil what it promises?
This module addresses implementation challenges, focusing on variances (“glitches”) that can cause gap between intended and actual HR practices. Highlights that effective implementation—regardless of HR design—makes a difference.
HRM and Employee Wellbeing
This module investigates how leadership and policies create a people-first culture. Differentiates between ‘hedonic’ and ‘eudaimonic’ well-being, emphasizing how HRM can promote productivity and sustainability.
Assignment: Scenario Analysis & Reflection II
This assignment will be 30% of your grade.
Conclusion and Wrap-Up
This module summarises key concepts and provides the opportunity for optional one-on-one consultations for final assignments.
Assignment: Reflection Report
This assignment will be 50% of your grade.
Upon successful completion of the course you will:
- Be awarded with 15 credit points from the University of Auckland
- Have the option to take your credit into the Master of Business Management in HRM or the Master of Business Management in Strategic Management (entry criteria and time limits apply)
Frequently asked questions about this course
Application FAQs
What are the entry requirements?
This course is designed for working professionals. To be admitted you must meet the requirements to study at a New Zealand University (e.g. through University Entrance or an alternative entrance pathway).
What is the date for the next intake?
The next start date for this course is Monday 15 September 2025. Enrolment closes one week before the course starts. Enrol early to secure your spot.
Is the course fee a one-off lump sum?
Yes, the course fee is a one-off sum.
Is this course open to non-resident students?
This Certificate of Proficiency is currently open to NZ citizens and permanent residents.
Studying FAQs
Can I study the course in my own time? Is it suitable for those working full-time?
Yes. You can study at a time that suits you (within the allocated course dates). University of Auckland Online courses are designed for working professionals. They are flexible yet structured to help you gain the knowledge in the time you have.
How is the course structured?
The course will run over 10 weeks and will comprise of 6 modules. Further details on the course structure can be found under the ‘Course Structure’ tab further up on this page.
Assessment FAQs
How will I be assessed?
Learners will be assessed through a combination of activities that address the learning objectives from each of the modules in the course. Further details on the assessments can be found under the ‘Course Structure’ tab further up this page.
Benefits FAQs
What is a Certificate of Proficiency (CoP)?
A Certificate of Proficiency (CoP) is a course-only study option that allows you to take a course at the University of Auckland, without studying a full programme. It is a good option for those who want to study short-term or to test whether a subject is something they wish to pursue more of in the future.
Does the course enable me to take further study at the University?
If you decide to progress your studies further towards a full qualification, you can apply to reassign the points from your CoP to the MBM (entry criteria and time limits apply).
How many course credits will I attain upon completion of the course?
Upon completion of the course, you will be awarded with 15 credit points from the University of Auckland.
Do I get a certificate at the end?
As a Certificate of Proficiency is not a formal qualification, you will not be able to graduate with it or receive a graduation certificate. Your results will be recorded on your official academic transcript, providing evidence of your study.
Start Your University Application
Before we transfer you to the University of Auckland application portal to start your application, we would like to capture a few details.
These details enable us to provide you with ongoing information about this course, including exciting updates or any upcoming webinars. Our advisors may also contact you to see if you require any personalised advice to guide you through the application process.
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