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    Postgraduate Diploma in Human Resource Management

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    Apply by:
    11 October 2026
    To start by:
    26 October 2026
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    Study a Postgraduate Diploma in Human Resource Management

    The online Postgraduate Diploma in Human Resource Management is designed for HR professionals and aspiring people leaders who want to deepen their expertise in strategic human resource management, organisational development, talent management, and employment relations. This qualification provides an advanced understanding of contemporary HR theories, practices, and methodologies, enabling students to contribute meaningfully to organisational performance through effective people management strategies. Students explore key areas such as strategic HR management, organisational development and change, human capital development, talent management, employment relations, workforce analytics, and global human resource practices.

    The programme emphasises the integration of theory and practice, equipping students to address complex workplace challenges, drive organisational transformation, and support business objectives through evidence-based HR decision-making. Students also develop advanced research skills that enable them to investigate and solve human resource-related problems using rigorous academic and professional approaches. Graduates will be equipped to lead HR initiatives, manage organisational change, develop talent strategies, and contribute to sustainable organisational success across a wide range of industries and sectors.

    Requirements and Opportunities

    Admission Requirements

    To apply for this programme, a student must have:

    • A relevant Bachelor of Commerce in Human Resource Management or Development, or an Advanced Diploma in Human Resource Management (both NQF Level 7). 

    Technical Requirements

    To complete your online qualification successfully, you will need:

    • A laptop or desktop computer
    • A reliable internet connection
    • Basic computer literacy

    Career Opportunities

    • Human Resources Manager
    • Talent Management Specialist
    • Organisational Development Practitioner
    • Employee Relations Manager
    • Human Capital Development Manager

    You will learn

    • To identify and mitigate employment relations risks, including grievances, disciplinary matters, strikes, and workplace conflict.

    • About constructive workplace relationships that support organisational performance and employee wellbeing.

    • Advanced HR theories and frameworks to solve complex people management challenges.

    • Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods research within a human resource management context.

    • Evidence-based recommendations that support organisational decision-making and sustainable business outcomes.

    Modules and Credits

    The programme is split over two years. Modules are undertaken over a seven-week period with a one-week break.

    Strategic Human Resources Management: Theory

    Total Fees: R6,280
    Credit: 12
    This module explores the strategic role of human resources in achieving organisational objectives and creating sustainable competitive advantage. Students examine the alignment of HR strategies with organisational strategy, the impact of Industry 4.0 on workforce management, and the growing importance of career development in modern workplaces. The module also explores leadership in evolving work environments, digital business transformation, human resource information systems (HRIS), and innovative approaches to HR service delivery.

    Strategic Human Resources Management: Talent Management and Metrics

    Total Fees: R6,280
    Credit: 12
    This module focuses on attracting, developing, engaging, and retaining talent within organisations. Students explore talent acquisition strategies, employee assessment and reward systems, wellness initiatives, and talent development practices. The module also introduces HR measurement, workforce analytics, and performance metrics, enabling students to make evidence-based decisions and manage HR-related risks effectively.

    Organisational Development and Change: Theory

    Total Fees: R6,280
    Credit: 12
    This module provides a comprehensive understanding of organisational development (OD) and planned change processes. Students examine the principles, theories, and practices that underpin organisational transformation, including the role of the OD practitioner, organisational diagnosis, data collection and analysis, feedback processes, intervention design, change management, and the evaluation of organisational development initiatives. The module equips students with the theoretical foundation required to facilitate sustainable organisational change and improvement.

    Organisational Development and Change: Intervention

    Total Fees: R6,280
    Credit: 12
    This module focuses on the practical application of organisational development and change theories through a range of intervention strategies. Students explore human process, technostructural, human resource, and strategic change interventions designed to improve organisational effectiveness. The module also examines OD applications in diverse contexts, including healthcare, education, the public sector, and family-owned businesses, while considering economic, social, and environmental outcomes. Emerging trends and future developments in organisational development are also explored.

    Introduction to Strategic Human Capital Development

    Total Fees: R6,280
    Credit: 12
    This module introduces students to strategic approaches to human capital development and workforce capability building. Students examine how human capital development strategies support broader organisational goals and contribute to long-term organisational success. Key topics include management development, skills development, employment equity, diversity training, and the alignment of learning and development initiatives with business strategy.

    International Human Capital Development

    Total Fees: R6,280
    Credit: 12
    This module examines human capital development within a global context. Students explore the impact of globalisation on workforce development, the design and implementation of international human capital development strategies, and the management of talent across borders. The module develops an understanding of global talent management practices and the challenges associated with developing and retaining talent in multinational organisations.

    Employment Relations Management: Business Applications

    Total Fees: R6,280
    Credit: 12
    This module provides students with an understanding of employment relations within organisational settings. Students examine the employment relationship, individual employment contracts, disciplinary procedures, grievance processes, employment equity, and unfair labour practices. The module focuses on the practical application of employment relations principles to support fair, productive, and legally compliant workplaces.

    Employment Relations Management: Risk Management

    Total Fees: R6,280
    Credit: 12
    This module explores the management of employment relations risks and the mechanisms used to address workplace disputes and conflict. Students examine grievance handling, dismissals, strikes, lockouts, and workplace discipline processes. The module develops the skills required to identify potential employment relations risks and implement strategies that minimise disruption while maintaining positive workplace relationships.

    Research Methodology: Approaches

    Total Fees: R6,280
    Credit: 12
    This module provides students with a solid foundation in research design and methodology within the human resource management field. Students explore competing research philosophies and paradigms, qualitative and quantitative research approaches, mixed-methods research designs, and data analysis techniques. The module develops critical research skills that support evidence-based decision-making and organisational problem-solving.

    Research Project/Report

    Total Fees: R6,280
    Credit: 12
    This capstone module enables students to apply advanced research skills to a human resource management-related topic. Through seminars, workshops, and guided research activities, students develop a research proposal, identify and define a research problem, conduct a literature review, design an appropriate research methodology, and analyse data. The module culminates in the completion of a research report that demonstrates the student's ability to investigate and address complex HR-related challenges using rigorous academic and professional research practices.

    Fees for 2026

    CUT’s fee structure allows a student to pay as they progress. A student must pay for a module before they will be granted access to the material.

    * Fees quoted are 2026 fees. Fees are subject to an annual increase.
    Number of modules: 10
    Programme credits: 120
    SAQA ID: 112565
    Total tuition fees: R62,800

    Thinking Beyond

    The Central University of Technology (CUT) is a leading higher education institution in South Africa, located in the Free State province. Known for its innovation-driven focus, CUT offers a range of academic programmes in engineering, health sciences, and management, empowering students with practical skills and industry-relevant knowledge.

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