Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Overview

Business Administration – Strategic Human Resource Management (SHRM) equips you with the skills to align human resource strategies with overall business performance. This program emphasizes the design, evaluation, and enhancement of recruitment, selection, development, retention, and mobility processes, utilizing both theoretical knowledge and practical tools.

The curriculum merges academic rigor with hands-on learning experiences, including portfolio development and research-focused courses. You have the option to select electives from other Business Administration specializations, allowing you to customize your academic profile.

What you'll study

The program consists of core courses that deepen your understanding of strategic HRM, career development, organizational behavior, business ethics, and research methodologies. Your learning will be consolidated through a portfolio that showcases your integration of theoretical and practical knowledge.

• The Changing HRM Environment
• Contemporary Careers & Organizations
• Business Ethics in Strategic Human Resource Management
• Research in Business Administration – Strategic Human Resource Management
• Portfolio (applied assessment demonstrating your integration of theory and practice)

You may also have the opportunity to choose electives from other Business Administration specializations, subject to program guidelines and availability.

Entry requirements

To be eligible for this master’s program, applicants must possess a relevant academic background and meet English language proficiency standards.

Academic requirements

• A university bachelor’s degree equivalent to a Dutch academic Bachelor’s degree (research university; typically 3 years).
• Your bachelor’s degree should encompass foundational knowledge in Business Administration.
• You must have completed relevant coursework with a minimum of:
• 12 ECTS in Research Methods
• 12 ECTS in Business Administration

Motivation and additional factors

• VU Amsterdam considers your motivation for applying, along with relevant work experience, volunteering, and other applicable activities.

English requirements

• IELTS (Academic): minimum overall score of 6.5
• TOEFL iBT: minimum score of 92

Documents typically required

• Completed online application
• Academic transcripts and degree certificate (or proof of expected graduation)
• English test results (if applicable)
• Motivation letter and/or CV (as requested in the application portal)

Note: Specific document requirements and submission details can vary by intake. Please refer to VU Amsterdam’s application page for the latest information.

Career prospects

Upon graduation, you will be well-prepared for a variety of roles in human resource management, organizational development, and strategic planning. This program opens doors to career opportunities in both local and international markets, equipping you with the competencies necessary to thrive in an ever-evolving business landscape.