University of Memphis

What you'll study

This programme blends core business foundations with specialised human resources topics to give you the knowledge and practical skills used by HR professionals. Course sequencing typically moves from introductory business and management modules into intermediate and advanced HR subjects, with opportunities for applied projects and internships.

• Core business modules: introductory accounting, finance, marketing, management principles and business law that build a broad understanding of organisational functions.
• Organisational behaviour and management: study of individual and group behaviour, leadership, motivation and organisational design.
• Fundamental HR topics: recruitment and selection, training and development, performance management, compensation and benefits, and employment law.
• Advanced HR and workforce topics: labour relations, strategic human resource management, diversity and inclusion, talent management and succession planning.
• HR technology and analytics: HR information systems, people analytics, metrics and data-driven decision making.
• Practical learning: internships, practicum or cooperative education placements with local employers, case studies and a capstone project or practicum that integrates HR strategy and practice.
• Electives and complementary studies: opportunities to take electives in psychology, industrial relations, management information systems or business ethics to tailor the degree to your interests.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to meet the university's undergraduate admission standards and demonstrate readiness for a business degree. Typical entry elements include:

• Secondary education: completion of a recognised secondary school certificate or equivalent. A competitive high-school GPA is recommended.
• Recommended subjects: strong performance in English and mathematics is beneficial; courses in social sciences, business or economics are helpful preparation.
• Transfer applicants: submit official college transcripts showing completion of transferable credit; meeting prerequisite business coursework may be required.
• International applicants: proof of English language proficiency through recognised tests or qualifying pathways where English is not the primary language of instruction.
• Additional considerations: some applicants strengthen their application with relevant extracurricular activity, work or volunteer experience in people-focused roles; specific programme or college-level admissions processes may apply.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with a practical skillset that employers seek in HR and people-management roles across sectors. Career paths commonly pursued include:

• HR generalist or HR coordinator roles in small to medium-sized organisations.
• Recruiter or talent acquisition specialist, focusing on sourcing and selection.
• Training and development specialist or organisational development professional, designing learning and performance programmes.
• Compensation and benefits analyst or payroll coordinator.
• HRIS or people-analytics roles supporting data-driven HR decisions.
• Labour relations or employee relations positions in unionised and non-union environments.
• Consultancy, human capital advisory or continuing into postgraduate study (e.g. MBA, specialised HR master’s, or certifications such as SHRM or HRCI) for advancement into senior HR leadership.

Why study at University of Memphis

The University of Memphis offers a business-context education with access to a network of regional employers and experiential learning options. Studying in Memphis provides proximity to a diverse economy with strengths in logistics, healthcare, manufacturing and service industries, which supports internship and employment opportunities for HR students.

• Applied learning: emphasis on internships, practicum projects and real-world case work that connect classroom learning to employer needs.
• Industry links: relationships with local and regional employers create pathways for recruitment, projects and guest lectures.
• Career support: campus career services and business-college resources to help with internships, resume development and interview preparation specific to HR roles.
• Student organisations: opportunities to join student chapters and clubs related to human resources and business that build professional networks and leadership experience.