Human Resource Management (HRM)
See study programmeThe Master in Human Resource Management (HRM) is an experience-based master's degree of 90 credits with a master's thesis of 30 credits. The program consists of 5 different social science courses, as well as the independent work on the master's thesis (see further information below under structure / courses).
Both as a subject and a field of practice, HRM goes far beyond traditional personnel policy. The field deals with all activities that include people, and is related to management, planning, recruitment, development and facilitation within an organization. The program's academic profile is therefore designed with a view to providing the student with competence that can be used in demanding leadership functions at various levels and to develop and take care of the human resources in today's organizations.
Working strategically with the employee cycle within HRM
Through the Master in HRM, you gain knowledge of development lines, key theories and perspectives within organization, management and HRM. This will enable you to work strategically with the employee cycle within HRM (recruitment, development, motivation and liquidation), as well as critically analyze and prepare strategies related to, for example, work-life balance, corporate democracy, diversity and gender and equality issues. Here it will also be relevant to take a closer look at how management relationships and emotions affect work.
Handling internal and external change requirements
With the above focus, it becomes clear that the Master in HRM not only concentrates on internal organizational issues, but is also related to external issues such as increased globalization, new technology, competition, policies, and more. At the Master in HRM, we therefore also raise questions about how HRM can be conceived and practiced in relation to society's requirements for the organization of organizations, industries and management.
Relevant professional experience is required for admission, because the study is closely linked to the field of practice. The students' own work experience becomes an important resource in the study, when we discuss how theories can be applied in practice and how practice challenges can be understood and met with the help of different theoretical perspectives.
Knowledge
- has advanced knowledge both of established and newer national/Nordic and international theories, methods, processes and central themes and interpretations within what can be said to make up the HRM field
- has in-depth knowledge of research methods and various forms of obtaining professional information
- has in-depth knowledge of relevant methods for analyzing business areas that fall under HRM
- can apply knowledge of development trends, challenges and methods within various parts of the HRM field
- can analyze issues based on multidisciplinary organizational and management theory, as well as Norwegian and international work life research
Skills
- can make independent assessments of research data and other academically relevant information
- can make practical use of professional knowledge in HRM, organizational and management theory
- can carry out own investigations related to challenges and work in organizations in line with basic methodological principles in the social sciences
- can use relevant professional tools, techniques and forms of expression
- can work independently with practical and theoretical problem solving releated to HRM work
General competence
- can analyze relevant academic, professional and ethical issues regarding HRM. This includes being critical of Norwegian and international work life research
- can familiarize themselves with new research, professional development, trends and new technology designed for use in organizations
- can present, discuss and argue their professional views
- can convey professional insight into the HRM field both orally and in writing
- must be a resource in the sustainable development of the organisation
Higher Education Entrance Qualification
Norwegian language proficiency
View general admission and documentation requirements
Admission requires a bachelor's degree of at least 180 ECTS credits or an equivalent education of at least three years duration with an average grade of C or better. Applicants must also demonstrate two years of relevant work experience, as well as knowledge of social science research methods comprising at least 10 ECTS credits.
If there are more qualified applicants than the amount of places available, the applicants will be ranked based on the following:
Calculating of weighed average grade for the topics included in the calculation basis (including any improved grades).
Applicants with foreign education will be considered on an individual basis.
In addition to the methods course, the 10-point courses are intended to build up knowledge for the fourth and most comprehensive course, Human Resource Management (HR305S). It is an advantage if the courses are taken in this order, but not a requirement.
Students are required to pass the course Research methods and design part 1 (MET5009) before they begin work on the Master's thesis.
A person with a Master's degree in HRM has a knowledge base for working both theoretically and practically with HRM issues - which supports organizations' strategic needs. With these analytical strengths and practical insights, people with a Master's degree in HRM qualify for a wide range of management jobs in various sectors, as well as for future positions such as HRM specialist, HR director, HR manager, HR consultant, etc.
Our Master in Human Resource Management (HRM) does not qualify students for the doctoral programme (P.hd.).
After completing the Master of Human Resource Management (HRM) you might be eligible to apply for the Supplementary module in social science research design, methods and analysis (SOS5000) to further qualify for a P.hd.. SOS5000 is announced for new applicants every other year at the Faculty of Social Science.
The study program facilitates exchange in the 4th semester (spring semester) in the 2nd year of study.
The following educational institutions may be relevant for exchange:
- Deakin University in Australia (Melbourne, Geelong and Warrnambool)
- Mid Sweden University
- Wageningen University in the Netherlands
Nord University also has a number of agreements with other universities that are relevant for all students, subject to finding a relevant course offer.
Contact Stian Hiis Berg (stian.h.bergh@nord.no) for further information.
The final exam is the master's thesis with oral (30 credits).
Assessment and grading is based on letter grades A-F, where A is best and F is not passed.
Please refer to the applicable legislation, regulations and related guidelines.