Troy University

What you'll study

This master’s programme covers the core functions of contemporary human resources with an emphasis on applied skills and strategic perspective. Typical modules include:

• Strategic Human Resource Management – alignment of HR strategy with organisational goals and planning for workforce capability.
• Organisational Behaviour and Development – understanding individual and team dynamics, culture change and interventions to improve performance.
• Employment Law and Ethics – key legal frameworks affecting hiring, termination, discrimination and ethical HR practice.
• Talent Acquisition and Workforce Planning – recruitment strategies, selection, onboarding and succession planning.
• Learning, Training and Development – designing training programmes, evaluating learning outcomes and leadership development.
• Compensation, Benefits and Total Rewards – pay structures, benefits design and reward strategies that support retention and motivation.
• HR Analytics and Information Systems – use of HR data, metrics and HRIS tools to inform decision-making.
• Labour Relations and Collective Bargaining – principles of industrial relations, negotiation and managing unionised workforces (where applicable).

Programme structure typically combines core coursework with elective options and a culminating applied project, practicum or capstone course that allows students to work on real-world HR problems. Delivery options often include on-campus, evening or online formats to accommodate part-time working professionals.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in any discipline or equivalent qualification from an accredited institution. Admissions commonly consider the following:

• A completed undergraduate degree with a satisfactory academic record (equivalent to an upper second-class honours or a solid GPA in the US system).
• A current CV or résumé demonstrating relevant work experience is advantageous, particularly for mature-entry or part-time routes.
• A personal statement outlining career goals and reasons for pursuing HR at master’s level.
• Two professional or academic references may be requested to support the application.
• Standardised test requirements (such as the GMAT/GRE) are sometimes considered but are frequently waivable for applicants with relevant professional experience or a strong academic record.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency via an approved test or recognised equivalent qualifications, unless otherwise exempt.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of HR and people-focused careers across private, public and not-for-profit sectors. Typical career paths include:

• Human Resources Generalist or HR Business Partner – advising managers, implementing policies and leading HR initiatives.
• Talent Acquisition / Recruitment Manager – designing recruitment strategies and managing selection processes.
• Compensation and Benefits Analyst – developing pay structures, benchmarking and benefits administration.
• Learning and Development Manager – leading training design, leadership programmes and organisational learning.
• HR Analyst / HRIS Specialist – analysing workforce data, producing insights and managing HR technology systems.
• Organisational Development Consultant – driving change programmes, culture transformation and performance improvement.
• Labour Relations Specialist or Employee Relations Manager – managing collective bargaining and dispute resolution where relevant.

Graduates often move into senior HR leadership roles with additional experience, and the degree also supports transitions into consulting, project management and general management positions where people and change are central.

Why study at Troy University

Troy University offers a supportive learning environment suited to both recent graduates and experienced professionals. The programme emphasises applied learning, with opportunities to work on practical HR projects, internships or capstone assignments that connect theory to workplace practice. Small class sizes enable personalised attention from faculty with professional and academic HR expertise, while flexible delivery options accommodate students balancing study with work. Additionally, Troy’s broader campus network and alumni community provide useful local and regional industry links for placement and career development.