Online Graduate Certificate in Human Resource Management

Online Graduate Certificate in Human Resource Management

POSTGRADUATE

Accelerate your HR career

Student type:
Learning mode:
Entry score:

See admissions

Duration:
8 months intensive part-time
Fees:

AU$17,280 (2025), FEE-HELP available*

Next intake:
5 May 2025
Location:
Online
Learning mode:
Entry score:

See admissions

Duration:
8 months intensive part-time
Fees:

AU$17,280 (2025)

Next intake:
5 May 2025
Location:
Online

Please use plan code GC161O in the application system for this degree.

Develop the expertise to manage diverse teams, resolve conflicts, and drive organisational change, while enhancing your ability to think critically and reflect on your professional growth.

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Next intake
5 May

Applications close for next intake
28 April

Future intakes

  • May
  • July
  • September
  • October

Program overview

Why study the Graduate Certificate of Human Resource Management online?

Accredited

Accredited by the Australian HR Institute (AHRI).

Gain a local and global perspective on HR

Develop future focused knowledge and skills to make best practice recommendations in a global context.

The most efficient way to gain a qualification in your chosen career

Gain your certification in as little as 8 months, thanks to our innovative intensive learning structure.

The Graduate Certificate in Human Resource Management will equip you with the skills and knowledge to thrive in today’s dynamic workplace. 

You’ll dive deep into key HRM practices, from understanding the critical role of HR in organisational success to navigating the complexities of employment law and international HR standards. Through hands-on learning, case studies, and interactive simulations, you’ll build essential competencies like strategic problem-solving, ethical decision-making, and effective communication. You’ll develop the expertise to manage diverse teams, resolve conflicts, and drive organisational change – all while honing your ability to think critically and reflect on your own professional growth. 

By the end of the program, you’ll be ready to apply innovative HR strategies that address the challenges of the modern workforce and lead organisations toward sustainable success. This is not just a certificate; it’s a launchpad for your career as a trusted HR professional, preparing you to make a meaningful impact in any business setting.

By the end of the Graduate Certificate in Human Resource Management you’ll be able to:

  • Critically analyse and resolve contemporary and evolving HR issues, accounting for regulatory, ethical, social, economic, political and environmental constructs in technology driven-national and global business contexts. 
  • Apply cultural and diversity awareness in a broad range of environments to foster inclusion and acceptance internally and externally to the organisation. 
  • Communicate, written and verbally, to a broad range of audiences HRM concepts, strategies, solutions and justify their application in a national and global business context. 
  • Lead, influence and demonstrate self-awareness in formal and informal teams; and actively participate as a team member to achieve organisational objectives. 
  • Propose, plan and execute research projects to design innovative strategies and/or technology-based solutions to challenge evolving management HRM-related issues.

Career Outlook

Take a closer look at the opportunities available with a career in Human Resource Management.

This degree will deliver specialist knowledge to prepare you for a career in human resource management. Career pathways include:

  • HR Manager 
  • People and Culture Manager 
  • Human Resource Consultant 
  • Payroll Manager 
  • HR director 
  • Recruitment Manager

Why choose RMIT Online

Get a world-class education and transform your career.

Real world skills

Develop skills that have been validated by industry, while getting credentialed by a world-leading university.

Industry connected

You'll gain knowledge and practical skills from renowned industry partners who are at the forefront of their field.

Flexible delivery

Advance your career while you study. RMIT Online courses let you balance work, study and life commitments.

Supported community

Be guided by a network of industry experts and peers, and supported by our dedicated success team.

Course structure

Dive into the dynamic world of Human Resource Management, gaining the skills and knowledge to drive organisational success. You'll master key HRM strategies, tackle real-world challenges, and develop your ability to think critically and act ethically in a global context.

Subjects in this degree

  • BUSM4588 Key Concepts in Human Resource Management  
  • BUSM4589 Professional Human Resource Management Practices  
  • BUSM4590 People and Organisations  
  • BUSM4591 Employment Law

Individual subject details

Course overview

This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills to articulate the importance of human resource management (HRM) within organisations and the supervision of people.

The role of HRM and its contribution to organisational success is presented with a focus on contemporary and future issues. The interchange between knowledge regarding HRM theory and practice experienced will provide a basis for you to contribute confidently in workplaces.

A variety of authentic case studies are used to stimulate discussion in the HRM context. The development of your knowledge, judgement, and research skills will enable you to apply enhanced technical, interpersonal/soft skills, including ethical practices required by HRM professionals. The enhancement of your capabilities as a reflective HRM practitioner are key components of this course.

Learning outcomes

  • Demonstrate and apply knowledge and skills to articulate the importance of human resource management (HRM) practices within organisations
  • Critically analyse issues using key concepts based on HRM theories to formulate appropriate strategies that can be successfully applied in workplace contexts
  • Investigate, analyse and synthesise the effect of HRM practices on ethical, social, economic, political, technological and environmental factors that impact on organisations and the labour market
  • Critically analyse the complexity of applying HRM theories and approaches to make professional decisions regarding the management of employees in domestic and global workplaces
  • Analyse, develop, implement and evaluate innovative and creative solutions relevant to business practices with a vision of HRM requirements now and in the future.

Course overview

This course introduces you to Human Resource Management (HRM) practices from both the employee and employer perspectives.

You will learn what a good HR practitioner has in their ‘professional toolkit’ in relation to their capabilities and skills, and how a professional develops over time. You will apply and evaluate a selected group of skills to contribute to your development as a reflective practitioner. 

We will explore some of the behaviours and skills frameworks around the world that describe expert practitioners as possessing, for example;

  • Being curious, culturally aware, ethical, collaborative, decisive-thinker, results-focused and a role model 
  • Having the ability to communicate and influence; the courage to question and challenge, and maintain personal credibility.

You will develop the ability to evaluate key HRM skills and competencies that you might require of yourself in a given setting and what you would require of organisational members, informed by international standards and practices. 

You will learn by experiential, activity-based learning using scenarios, role-plays and simulations which are challenging yet fun. This approach is designed to enhance your ability to learn and operate in an independent and self-directed manner, which will enable you to become a life-long learner better preparing you for rapidly changing organisational environments.

Learning outcomes

  • Compare international HR professional standards and assess their application to an organisation drawing in theoretical constructs
  • Analyse and interpret the external and internal context in which HR professionals operate, and the impact on practice
  • Demonstrate expertise in tools, tactics and strategies that can be applied to achieve the resolution of conflict
  • Reflect and critique your developing professional practice. 

Course overview

In this course you will explore human behaviour in the work context by considering the interaction between individuals and teams, within and toward organisations. You will develop your abilities to evaluate individuals’ diversity, attitudes, emotions, motivations and stress; and issues of communication, power, conflict management and negotiation within teams.

The study of individuals and teams provides insights into the complex issues of organisational structure, culture and change. This multi-level exploration will develop your ability to apply evidence-based research and theory to contemporary issues of behaviour within organisations to inform human resource management and organisational performance.

Learning outcomes

  • Analyse the literature on organisational behaviour
  • Demonstrate interpersonal skills and persuasive communication
  • Critically evaluate organisational behaviour problems drawing on theory and research
  • Design evidence-based solutions to organisational behaviour problems with consideration of ethical ramification of action. 

Course overview

This course explains key aspects of Australian employment law, including the analysis of common law principles applying the employer-employee relationship, as well as the statutory provisions governing employment.

Learning outcomes

  • Evaluate the history and evolution of employment law in Australia
  • Analyse key aspects of relevant employment law legislation and case law
  • Critically assess and apply key legal rules to address a range of employment law issues
  • Apply an advanced and integrated knowledge of legislation and common law to current legal issues
  • Critically analyse and synthesise relevant legislation and common law to address complex and emerging legal issues in a range of contexts.

Get more information about what you will learn in each of these courses.

Admissions requirements

To be eligible for the Graduate Certificate in Human Resource Management, you must have:

  • An Australian bachelor degree or equivalent, or higher level qualification, in any discipline from a recognised tertiary institution.*

If you do not meet the above entry requirement for the Graduate Certificate, you may be considered if you have 5 years of work experience.

All applicants will be required to submit a curriculum vitae (CV).

*If your qualification was completed more than 10 years ago you will need to provide evidence of ongoing professional work and/or professional development in the same discipline as the program for which you are seeking entry.

You must meet the University’s minimum English language requirements for postgraduate coursework programs to be eligible for a place in this program.

Students who successfully complete the RMIT Graduate Certificate in Human Resource Management can articulate into the Master of Human Resource Management and will be exempted from completing the four (4) discipline courses completed in the Graduate Certificate in Human Resource Management. In order to successfully complete the Master's degree you will be required to complete an additional twelve (12) courses (144 credit points).

Credit outside of the above arrangements will be assessed consistently with RMIT University's credit policy and procedures. If you wish to apply for a credit transfer/RPL, please refer to 'Apply for credit'.

RMIT assesses each student’s prior learning and qualifications to grant credit so you can complete your online postgraduate degree sooner. Your application will be decided on a case-by-case basis. RMIT aims to grant as much credit as possible at the time of offer, so it’s important to provide as much evidence of prior study and work experience as possible with your application.

To be eligible for the Online Graduate Certificate in Human Resource Management, you must have:

  • An Australian bachelor degree or equivalent, or higher level qualification, in any discipline from a recognised tertiary institution.*

If you do not meet the above entry requirement for the Graduate Certificate, you may be considered if you have 5 years of work experience.

All applicants will be required to submit a curriculum vitae (CV).

All non-Australian residents and overseas full-fee paying students are required to meet RMIT English language requirements and are required to provide current evidence of English language proficiency for admission to RMIT University (see English language requirements below).

*If your qualification was completed more than 10 years ago you will need to provide evidence of ongoing professional work and/or professional development in the same discipline as the program for which you are seeking entry.

To study this course you will need to complete one of the following English proficiency tests:

  • IELTS (Academic): minimum overall band of 6.5 (with no individual band below 6.0)
  • TOEFL (Internet Based Test - IBT): minimum overall score of 79 (with minimum of 13 in Reading, 12 in Listening, 18 in Speaking and 21 in Writing)
  • Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE (A)): minimum score of 58 (with no communication band less than 50)
  • Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): minimum of 176 with no less than 169 in any component.

For detailed information on English language requirements and other proficiency tests recognised by RMIT, visit English language requirements and equivalency information.

Don't meet the English language test scores? Complete an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Advanced Plus at RMIT University Pathways (RMIT UP).

RMIT’s Online Graduate Certificate in Human Resource Management does not meet Australian Student Visa requirements. For an Australian student visa, you must have an on-campus place in a program of study.

Students who successfully complete the RMIT Graduate Certificate in Human Resource Management can articulate into the Master of Human Resource Management and will be exempted from completing the four (4) discipline courses completed in the Graduate Certificate in Human Resource Management. In order to successfully complete the Masters degree you will be required to complete an additional twelve (12) courses (144 credit points).

Credit outside of the above arrangements will be assessed consistently with RMIT University's credit policy and procedures. If you wish to apply for a credit transfer/RPL, please refer to 'Apply for credit'.

RMIT assesses each student’s prior learning and qualifications to grant credit so you can complete your online postgraduate degree sooner. Your application will be decided on a case-by-case basis. RMIT aims to grant as much credit as possible at the time of offer, so it’s important to provide as much evidence of prior study and work experience as possible with your application.

Fee summary

2025 indicative fees

In 2025, the annual student contribution amount (tuition fee) you will pay for the standard year of full-time study in the Online Graduate Certificate in Human Resource Management is:

  • AU$4,320 per course
  • Total AU$17,280^ for 4 courses

Additional expenses

  • Student services and amenities fee (SSAF): AU$365 maximum fee for 2025
  • Other items related to your program, including field trips, textbooks and equipment.

^Fees typically increase each year and may change without notice. Total fees are estimates and should only be used as a guide.

Paying your fees and applying for refunds

For information on how to apply for a deferral, withdrawal or refund please see deferrals and withdrawals.

In addition to tuition fees, you will be charged an annual student services and amenities fee (SSAF), which is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.

The SSAF is calculated based on your enrolment load and the maximum fee for 2025 is AU$365.

You may also be required to purchase other items related to your program, including field trips, textbooks, and equipment. These additional fees and expenses vary from program to program. Find out more about calculating your actual SSAF.

FEE-HELP loans

Some students may be eligible to apply to defer payment of some or all of their tuition fees via the Commonwealth Government’s FEE-HELP loan scheme. FEE-HELP is for eligible full-fee paying students and allows you to defer payment of your tuition fees to the Australian Tax Office up to your HELP limit.

SA-HELP loans

You may be eligible to apply to defer payment of the student services and amenities fee (SSAF) through the SA-HELP loan scheme. If you use SA-HELP, the amount will be added to your accumulated HELP debt.

How does a HELP loan work?

If your FEE-HELP and/or SA-HELP loan application is successful, the Australian Government will pay RMIT, on your behalf, up to 100% of your fees. This amount will become part of your accumulated HELP debt.

You only start repaying your accumulated HELP debt to the Australian Government once you earn above the minimum income threshold for repayment, which is set each year by the Australian Government (this also applies if you are still studying.) 

The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) will calculate your compulsory repayment for the year and include this on your income tax notice. For more information about loan repayment options see Commonwealth assistance (HELP loans) or Study Assist. 

Visit our HELP loans page for lots of useful information about eligibility, how to apply and payment. You can apply for FEE-HELP once you have enrolled in a degree.

HELP loans are not available to international students.

2025 indicative fees

In 2025, the annual student contribution amount (tuition fee) you will pay for the standard year of full-time study in the Online Graduate Certificate in Human Resource Management is:

  • AU$4,320 per course
  • Total AU$17,280^ for 4 courses

Additional expenses

  • Student services and amenities fee (SSAF): AU$365 maximum fee for 2025
  • Other items related to your program, including field trips, textbooks and equipment.

^Fees typically increase each year and may change without notice. Total fees are estimates and should only be used as a guide.

Paying your fees and applying for refunds

For information on how to apply for a deferral, withdrawal or refund please see deferrals and withdrawals.

In addition to tuition fees, you will be charged an annual student services and amenities fee (SSAF), which is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.

The SSAF is calculated based on your enrolment load and the maximum fee for 2025 is AU$365.

You may also be required to purchase other items related to your program, including field trips, textbooks, and equipment. These additional fees and expenses vary from program to program. Find out more about calculating your actual SSAF.

Learn with industry experts

Program Manager – David Fan

Dr David Fan is a Professor of Management in the School of Management at RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia. His research interests are international human resource management, international strategic management, the technology-human interactions, and topics related to multinationals from emerging economies. 

Student success team, RMIT Online

Our student success team are here to help you with 1:1 coaching, tips on how to successfully study online, and any questions or concerns you may have.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Looking for answers or more general information?

Use our Frequently Asked Questions to learn about the application process and its equity access schemes, find out how to accept or defer your offer or request a leave of absence, discover information about your fees, refunds and scholarships, and explore the various student support and advocacy services, as well as how to find out more about your preferred program, and more.

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RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.