University of Adelaide

What you'll study

This degree blends core business subjects with specialist human resource management topics. The program typically covers organisational behaviour, employment and workplace law, recruitment and selection, performance and talent management, learning and development, remuneration and rewards, industrial relations, and HR analytics.

• Core business foundations: accounting, economics, management, marketing and quantitative methods to develop solid business literacy.
• HR specialist units: recruitment & selection, performance management, learning & development, remuneration & benefits, employment law and industrial relations.
• Strategy and analytics: strategic HRM, workforce planning, HR information systems and people analytics to support evidence‑based decision making.
• Practicals and capstone: applied projects, case studies and a capstone subject that integrates HR practice with broader business strategy; opportunities for workplace projects or internships where available.
• Progression options: students can choose electives across the Adelaide Business School to broaden their skills, and there is a pathway to honours or postgraduate study for those who wish to specialise further.

Entry requirements

Admission is based on successful completion of a recognised secondary qualification (for example Year 12/SACE or equivalent) with an ATAR or equivalent ranking that meets the University's entry threshold for business programs. International applicants must meet the University's English language requirements and provide an approved secondary qualification equivalent to the Australian Year 12.

• Alternative pathways: mature‑age applicants, TAFE or diploma pathways, and recognition of prior learning are considered.
• Prerequisites: there are generally no specialised subject prerequisites, but competence in numeracy and written communication strengthens an application.
• Further study: graduates who perform well may be eligible to apply for an honours year or for postgraduate programs in HR, management or business.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of roles across public, private and not‑for‑profit sectors. Typical entry and mid‑career positions include HR officer/administrator, recruitment consultant, learning and development officer, payroll or remuneration specialist, industrial relations advisor and HR generalist roles.

• Specialist pathways: careers in talent acquisition, organisational development, workforce planning, employee relations and HR analytics.
• Progression: with experience or further study, graduates move into senior HR management, consulting, HR business partner roles or specialist advisory positions.
• Transferable skills: leadership, negotiation, data analysis, project management and employment law knowledge are useful across many business functions.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide’s business programs are delivered through the Adelaide Business School, offering a mix of academic rigour and industry relevance. Students benefit from small‑group learning opportunities, access to academic staff who undertake research in management and workplace relations, and practical engagement with employers in South Australia and beyond.

• Industry connections: links with local and national employers provide networking, project and internship opportunities that help bridge study and practice.
• Support and development: central careers services, mentoring programs and enterprise initiatives help students develop employability skills and explore postgraduate pathways.
• Location and experience: studying in Adelaide provides a supportive urban environment with a strong economy in services, public sector and industry where HR skills are in demand.