International Human Resource Management (MSc)
Introduction
This CIPD-accredited programme will provide you with an understanding of international human resource management – in a operational, economical, political and social context. It will deliver a learning experience designed to give you the confidence and the skills to add value to employers upon graduating.
The MSc International Human Resource Management aims to develop knowledgeable practitioners with an appreciation of multi-cultural international practice. It will provide students with comprehensive knowledge and an in-depth understanding of the pivotal role played by HR in achieving business objectives.
This programme will also equip you with the tools to critically examine and apply contemporary approaches to HR management within organisations that are operating in a global environment. Through a blend of theory and practice, our programme will provide students with a multi-disciplinary foundation in management, economics, psychology and ethics.
The University of Aberdeen draws on ancient heritage and globally recognised excellence in research and teaching to challenge students academically and to connect them with the world of practice. This programme covers core areas in HR such as Resourcing and Talent Management, Managing Performance, Employment Relations and Negotiation and Cross-cultural management.
You’ll develop a thorough understanding of fundamental concepts, principles, theories, practices and legislative frameworks underlying international human resource management.
The University of Aberdeen is a leader in teaching and research in the field of business and management and this programme builds on our considerable strengths in these areas. The Department of Business Management is also home to The Africa-Asia Centre for Sustainability research centre. The centre was established on a commitment to undertaking inter and trans-disciplinary research in which expertise across disciplines will be integrated together in order to forge new understanding and new ways of addressing critical sustainability and global grand challenges within the context of the African and Asian regions.
Available Programmes of Study
We build on professional core areas such as Resourcing and Talent Management, Managing Performance and Digital Engagement and Relationships. Recognising the growth of global consultancy, the programme contains the financial, project management and relationship skills needed to perform effectively.
You will critically examine the needs of the global marketplace and the integration of skills, systems and knowledge required to enable organisations to operate efficiently and effectively in dynamic commercial environments.
- MSc
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International Human Resource Management
- Qualification
- MSc
- Duration
- 12 months or 24 months
- Learning Mode
- On Campus Learning
- Study Mode
- Full Time or Part Time
- Start Month
- September
- Location
- Aberdeen
- Qualification
- MSc
- Duration
- 12 months or 24 months
- Learning Mode
- On Campus Learning
- Study Mode
- Full Time or Part Time
- Start Month
- January
- Location
- Aberdeen
Programme Fees
- UK
-
- Tuition Fees for 2026/27 Academic Year
- £15,700
- Tuition Fees for 2026/27 Academic Year (University of Aberdeen Graduates *)
- £7,000
-
University of Aberdeen graduates are eligible for the Alumni Postgraduate Scholarship, reducing tuition fees to £7,000 - matching the current SAAS tuition loan - See full terms and conditions
- EU / International students
-
- Tuition Fees for 2026/27 Academic Year
- £26,250
- Tuition Fees for 2026/27 Academic Year (Self-funded Students *)
- £18,250
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The above fee includes the £8,000 Aberdeen Global Scholarship provided to self-funded international students. Full terms and conditions apply.
We will endeavour to make all course options available. However, these may be subject to change - see our Student Terms and Conditions page. In exceptional circumstances there may be additional fees associated with specialist courses, for example field trips.
Funding Opportunities
Alumni Discount Scheme - we are pleased to offer a 20% discount for postgraduate tuition fees to all alumni who have an undergraduate degree from University of Aberdeen.
Please note that the Aberdeen Alumni Discount cannot be claimed in conjunction with any other scholarship award.
Scholarships
All eligible self-funded international Postgraduate Masters students will receive an £8,000 scholarship. Learn more about this Aberdeen Global Scholarship here.
To see our full range of scholarships, visit our Funding Database.
How You'll Study
You will learn using a variety of engaging methods designed to increase your appreciation of current theory and practice. You will attend a variety of lectures, seminars and tutorials, and your work will be assessed by a mix of assignments, case studies, projects and exams. By the end of the course, you should be able to demonstrate a clear grasp of the concepts and an ability to link theory to practice.
150 hours are expected to be spent on learning of a module with 15 credit points (24-30 lecture/tutorial hours and the rest for self-learning and assessment hours).
Learning Methods
- Group Projects
- Individual Projects
- Lectures
- Peer Learning
- Research
- Seminars
- Tutorials
Why Study International Human Resource Management?
- The Business School is EQUIS accredited, placing it among a select group of globally recognised institutions. Out of over 15,000 business schools worldwide, less than 300 schools across 45 countries have attained this distinction.
- The University of Aberdeen was ranked 18th in the UK in the Guardian University Guide 2026.
- We are ranked 1st in the UK for Positive Responses in Business Studies (National Student Survey 2025).
- This CIPD-accredited programme will provide you with an understanding of international human resource management, in an operational, economic, political and social context. It will deliver a learning experience designed to give you the confidence and the skills to add value to employers upon graduating.
- You’ll develop a thorough understanding of fundamental concepts, principles, theories, practices and legislative frameworks underlying international human resource management. You will also be able to critically examine and translate your learning of organisations within a changing global environment using quantitative and qualitative skills.
- This MSc covers core areas in HR such as resourcing and talent management, managing performance, employment relations and negotiation, and cross-cultural management.
- In a recent Harvard Business Report, 76% of respondents identified skills such as communication, conflict management, and empathy as essential skills for the modern workforce. All of our postgraduate Business students develop these soft skills, valued by employers across sectors, with our Soft Skills Development Programme.
- With a community of over 130 nationalities at the University of Aberdeen, students are immersed in an environment that enables international discourse creating truly global exchanges, generating deep insights that spark innovative change.
Interested in this programme?
What Our Students Say
Entry Requirements
Qualifications
The information below is provided as a guide only and does not guarantee entry to the University of Aberdeen.
Our minimum entry requirement for this programme is an undergraduate degree at UK Honours level (or a degree from a non-UK institution which is judged by the University to be of equivalent worth).
Please enter your country or territory to view relevant entry requirements.
English Language Requirements
To study for a Postgraduate Taught degree at the University of Aberdeen it is essential that you can speak, understand, read, and write English fluently. The minimum requirements for this degree are as follows:
IELTS Academic:
OVERALL - 6.5 with: Listening - 5.5; Reading - 6.0; Speaking - 5.5; Writing - 6.0
TOEFL iBT:
OVERALL - 90 with: Listening - 17; Reading - 21; Speaking - 20; Writing - 21
PTE Academic:
OVERALL - 62 with: Listening - 59; Reading - 59; Speaking - 59; Writing - 59
Cambridge English B2 First, C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency:
OVERALL - 176 with: Listening - 162; Reading - 169; Speaking - 162; Writing - 169
Read more about specific English Language requirements here.
Document Requirements
You will be required to supply the following documentation with your application as proof you meet the entry requirements of this degree programme. If you have not yet completed your current programme of study, then you can still apply and you can provide your Degree Certificate at a later date.
- Degree Transcript
- a full transcript showing all the subjects you studied and the marks you have achieved in your degree(s) (original & official English translation)
Careers
This MSc programme produces graduates who are capable of critically evaluating and applying current research and advanced thinking in international human resource management. You will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to engage within the international HR environment, and will have the potential to enter a wide range of industries around the world as an HR practitioner.
This programme aims to develop knowledgeable practitioners with an appreciation of multi-cultural international practice. The programme will help you to be able to critically measure HR interventions using quantitative/qualitative, scientific and psychological approaches to managing human resources.
Career Opportunities
- Cultural Advisor
- Employee Relations Advisor
- Human Resources
- International Business and Organisations
- Management Consultant
- Office Manager
- Training and Development Specialist
Industry Links
Experience three Professional Development Weeks annually, providing you with valuable opportunities to enhance your skills and career prospects. Additionally, participate in our Careers Fair, where you can interact with potential employers, explore diverse career paths, and make connections that can shape your professional journey.
Accreditation
Accredited by CIPD with more than 160,000 members globally, many employers value CIPD qualifications. Attaining a CIPD accredited qualification is beneficial for our graduates as it adds credibility to their profile. After registering on our IHRM programme, students’ contact details will be provided to CIPD as part of our agreement with them, and our students will then be provided with further information to enable them to decide if they would like to pursue the opportunity to become student members of CIPD.
As members of the CIPD, students will have access to numerous member resources, career development tools and online communities that will enhance their knowledge of the HR profession.
The Business School is EQUIS accredited, placing it among a select group of globally recognised institutions. Out of over 15,000 business schools worldwide, less than 300 schools across 45 countries have attained this distinction.
Our Experts
For more details on academic experts and those who will be teaching within your programme discipline please visit the People section of the Business School website.
- Programme Leader
- Shainaz Firfiray
Information About Staff Changes
You will be taught by a range of experts including professors, lecturers, teaching fellows and postgraduate tutors. However, these may be subject to change - see our Student Terms and Conditions page.
Features
The University of Aberdeen, established in 1495, is Scotland’s third oldest and the UK’s fifth oldest University. The university’s ancient campus reflects its long-standing academic tradition, with historic buildings such as King's College, which dates back to the 15th century. This blend of ancient architecture and modern facilities creates a unique atmosphere where students can experience the best of both tradition and innovation.
Get in Touch
Contact Details
- Address
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Business School
University of Aberdeen
MacRobert Building
King Street
Aberdeen
AB24 3FX