Distance learning program Human Resource Management (M.A.) – IU International University

πŸ‘‰ The Master's programme in Human Resource Management (M.A.) at IU International University is designed for professionals and graduates of business-related university courses who are aiming for a career in Human Resource Management. Study objectives include in-depth knowledge of topics such as Employer Branding, Recruiting, Talent Management, and People Analytics. There are options with 60 or 120 ECTS, in German or English, which can be chosen based on personal goals and time resources. The programme is entirely online, flexible, allowing for studying alongside work and family commitments. Graduates qualify for senior HR positions, personnel development, or specialized roles like Change Management or Diversity Management.

At a Glance

🏫 Provider IU International University, UAS based in Erfurt (Germany)
Studying, anytime and anywhere – according to your own rules: The distance learning at IU International University (IU) not only makes this possible, but is constantly meeting individual learning needs and providing the latest gadgets for a maximally flexible study. The state-recognized bachelor's and master's programs, which can be completed part-time or full-time, are intended to adapt to the students' everyday lives – whether alongside work, during parental leave, or while traveling the world. Self-directed learning has never been easier: from the innovative learning app IU Learn, through the online campus with live formats, to the in-house and thus first AI-based university chatbot Syntea. Currently, there are over 130,000 students enrolled at IU – making IU the largest German university.
πŸ“‹ Study Format Distance learning program
πŸŽ“ Field of Study Economy & MediaHR Management
πŸ“œ Degree Master of Arts (M.A.)
⏳ Duration 2 Semesters, Study effort 37 hours weekly
🎯 ECTS 60 Credit Points
🌍 Language of Instruction German or English
πŸ“– Course contents Human Resource Management I, Human Resource Management II, Employer Branding and Recruiting, Talent Management and Personnel Development, People Analytics and Big Data, Research Methodology, Seminar International HR Management, Elective Module A, Master's Thesis
πŸ“š Electives Corporate Health Management, Change Management and Agility, Diversity Management, Human Performance Communication and Coaching, Concepts of Industrial and Organizational Psychology, Personality Psychology and Diagnostic Procedures, Labor Law, E-Commerce, Success-oriented Controlling, Health Care Management
πŸ‘₯ In-person sessions numerous virtual lectures
βœ… ZFU Approval The Central State Office for Distance Learning (ZFU) has approved the course Human Resource Management under the number 158314.
πŸ“… Enrollment Anytime
πŸ’Ά Fees
from 449 € monthly
from 9547 € total
πŸ”— More Info https://www.iu-fernstudium.de
  • Standard study period for this Master's is only 12 or 24 months, part-time study is possible
  • Interesting specializations, such as in Employer Branding and Recruiting
  • Innovative learning concept with IU Learn app and digital teaching events
  • Studies can be pursued in either German or English

Who is the Master's in Personnel Management at IU suitable for?

With your Master's in HR Management, you could work as a head of a HR department, as a personnel developer, or as a HR officer
© Robert Kneschke/Fotolia

The Master's program in Personnel Management (M.A.) at IU International University is aimed at individuals who want to engage academically and practically with current and strategic HR topics. You are in the right place if you are aiming for responsible HR roles after your first university degree – such as HR manager, personnel developer, HR business partner, or as a management figure in human resources. The program particularly targets professionals and graduates of business-related programs from all industries who are interested in topics like employer branding, recruiting, talent management, and people analytics, and wish to enhance their expertise.

Admission requirements overview

For the part-time Master's program in Personnel Management, there are different formal admission requirements depending on the study variant (60 ECTS or 120 ECTS):

60-ECTS variant (2 semesters, regular full-time):

  • First professional university degree (all fields) with a grade of at least "satisfactory."
  • For a degree with 180 ECTS: Proof of at least 2 years of relevant professional experience or completion of 30 ECTS through specific courses plus at least 1 year of relevant professional experience.
  • For a degree with 210 ECTS: Proof of at least 1 year of professional experience (acquired after graduation).
  • For a degree with 240 ECTS (e.g., Diploma): Also at least 1 year of relevant professional experience after graduation.
  • Master for Professionals: In exceptional cases, you can be admitted without a bachelor's degree with a subject-related education (DQR-4) and extensive (at least 6 years, with demonstrably 3 years in a leadership or expert role) relevant professional experience if you successfully complete an additional IU preparation module with a seminar paper and an oral examination.

120-ECTS variant (4 semesters, regular full-time): First university degree with a focus on economics or business administration (grade at least "satisfactory").

Change of field without an economic background: Those without an initial degree in economics can obtain admission through a master's admission test. This involves successfully completing two specified modules from the curriculum within 12 months.

Alternatives to minimum grade:

  • Bachelor's degree with a grade of 3.5 to 4.0 AND relevant study achievements (at least 40/20 ECTS) from a relevant Master/MBA OR
  • Completed, relevant Master/MBA OR
  • relevant and creditable non-university qualifications, such as further education at DQR level 7/European equivalent (at least 40/20 ECTS points)

Language skills:

  • German-language program: Applicants without a German educational qualification must provide proof of sufficient German language skills, e.g., through TestDaF, DSH, Telc Deutsch B2, or Γ–SD B2 (certificate no more than five years old).
  • English-language program: Proof of English language skills, e.g., TOEFL (at least 80 points), IELTS (Level 6), Cambridge (at least grade B), Duolingo (at least 105 points). Alternatively, you can take an English course at IU.

Recognition of previous achievements: Previous achievements such as completed study modules, academic further education, or relevant professional experiences can be recognized on application and credited towards study time/costs.

Personal requirements for successful studies

  • Professional experience: Ideally, you already have experience in HR, personnel development, consulting, or related fields. The required professional experience is a prerequisite for enrollment and is often addressed in a practical manner during the study.
  • Interest in management issues: You should have an affinity to economic issues, be able to think strategically, and be open to digital transformation and innovative HR concepts.
  • Self-organization & Motivation: The flexible IU distance learning program requires a high level of self-discipline, time management, and willingness to learn – especially alongside work and other commitments.
  • Enjoyment of Communication: As a future HR expert, you work in exchange with people, develop concepts, and communicate changes. Communication skills and team orientation are therefore valuable.
  • Basic digital skills: For online learning, you should be proficient in using digital tools, learning apps, and video platforms.

This Master's is suitable for you if you want to advance your career specifically in HR management and bring enthusiasm for innovative topics in human resources.

What content can you expect in the Master's in Personnel Management?

The distance learning programme in Personnel Management (M.A.) at IU International University provides you with up-to-date and wide-ranging know-how on modern Human Resource Management. The Master's programme, offered in two variants (60 or 120 ECTS), allows you to systematically engage with all relevant aspects of human resources. The key topics covered include:

  • Human Resource Management I and II: Fundamentals of strategic and operational personnel management, development of effective HR concepts, personnel planning and control.
  • Employer Branding and Recruiting: Building an attractive employer brand, developing recruiting strategies, and selection processes and applicant management.
  • Talent Management and Personnel Development: Talent promotion, competency development, strategic succession planning, and systematic further education measures.
  • People Analytics & Big Data: Using data-driven analysis methods for personnel decisions, introduction to people analytics, and evaluation of HR metrics.
  • Research Methodology: Scientific foundations for your own projects and final theses, methodological competence for empirical studies in personnel management.
  • International HR Management Seminar: Global challenges in personnel management, intercultural aspects, and internationalized HR strategies.
  • Elective Specialisations: You choose specialized modules, e.g., Workplace Health Management, Change Management and Agility, Diversity Management, Human Performance, Communication and Coaching, Work and Organisational Psychology, Personality Psychology, Diagnostic Procedures, or Labour Law.
  • Master's Thesis: Finally, you write a practice-oriented or research-related thesis on an HR-related topic.

The individual modules are designed in such a way that you can work on them independently of each other and set your own priorities. Interactive learning materials, digital scripts, video lectures, and regular virtual teaching sessions support your learning process.

How does distance learning work?

The study process at IU distance learning is modular and highly flexible:

  • Start Date: The Master's programme offers you flexible entry - you can start your studies at any time.
  • Study Models: You can choose between full-time and two part-time options, adapting the duration of study to your personal situation.
    • Full-Time: For those who want to complete the programme quickly.
    • Part-Time I: For working or busy students.
    • Part-Time II: For maximum compatibility with family, work, or other commitments.
  • Duration of Study:
    • 60-ECTS Variant: 2 semesters (full-time) to 4 semesters (part-time II)
    • 120-ECTS Variant: 4 semesters (full-time) to 8 semesters (part-time II)
  • Learning Materials: IU provides you with all materials digitally (scripts, videos, interactive books, podcasts). Scripts are also available in print. With the IU Learn App, you can prepare flexibly on the go.
  • Virtual Teaching Sessions: In addition, numerous live online seminars and tutorials are available.
  • Examinations: You can take exams (exams, term papers, presentations) online around the clock or, if desired, at German examination centres.
  • Self-Organization: You decide on the order in which you take the modules. This makes the programme particularly suitable for combining with work and family.

The programme is entirely online - there are no obligatory face-to-face phases. Study coaches and the online community support you with any questions and motivation.

A special feature is the learning AI Syntea, which supports you in understanding content and analyses your learning progress.

Your career opportunities and job prospects after the Master's

With a Master's degree in Personnel Management (M.A.), numerous options open up to you in responsible HR positions. The programme qualifies you for both specialist and managerial roles - for example, as:

  • HR Business Partner: Point of contact for executives, interface between HR and departments.
  • Recruiting Manager: Focus on acquiring and selecting new talents - from active sourcing to university marketing.
  • People Development Manager: Development and implementation of employee development measures and training.
  • HR Marketing & Employer Branding Specialist: Shaping the employer brand and staff retention.
  • Talent Manager: Supporting career paths and career programmes.
  • Organizational Development Specialist: Implementation of change projects, designing structures and processes in companies.

Roles in specialist areas such as Diversity Management, Change Management, or Workplace Health Management are also open to you. The international and academic focus also prepares you for work in international corporations or consultancy firms.

Costs, fees and financing options

The costs for the Human Resource Management distance learning programme (60 ECTS) vary depending on the chosen time model:

  • Full-time (12 months): 729 β‚¬ per month – total costs approx. 9.547 β‚¬
  • Part-time I (18 months): 569 β‚¬ per month – total costs approx. 11.041 β‚¬
  • Part-time II (24 months): 449 β‚¬ per month – total costs approx. 11.575 β‚¬

Regular discount promotions offer savings on tuition fees. The tuition includes all services such as digital learning materials, access to the online library, personal career coaching and optional live lectures. A non-binding trial month allows you to test the programme for free at the start.

  • Financing options: Education funds, private student loans, tax deduction as income-related expenses and various regional funding programmes. IU also accepts individual recognition of prior learning (e.g. from previous studies or further training), which can further reduce costs.

Thanks to the digital learning concept, there are no expenses for textbooks or on-site travel. Semester breaks and extensions (up to 12 months) are available free of charge if you need more time.

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