Master of Management Sciences in Human Resources Management

Career Opportunities & Professional Pathways

The Master of Management Sciences in Human Resources Management is an advanced, research-based qualification at NQF Level 9. It equips candidates with the independent research capabilities and strategic insight required to drive organisational transformation, shape labour policy, and lead complex human capital initiatives. Holders of this qualification are well-positioned for high-impact roles across multiple sectors, as well as for further doctoral studies. Career pathways include:

  • Academia & Advanced Research: University Lecturers, Academic Researchers, and PhD Candidates, contributing to the scholarly body of knowledge in human capital management, mentoring future professionals, and pursuing advanced doctoral research.
  • Strategic HR Leadership: Chief Human Resources Officers (CHROs), HR Directors, and Organisational Development Executives, applying rigorous research methodologies to design evidence-based talent strategies, drive cultural transformation, and align human capital with overarching business objectives.
  • Public Sector & Labour Policy: Senior HR Policy Advisors and Labour Relations Strategists, utilising advanced research findings to design sustainable employment frameworks, navigate complex regulatory environments, and shape national or regional labour policies.
  • Specialist Consultancy & Change Management: Independent HR Consultants, Executive Coaches, and Change Management Specialists, leveraging deep, evidence-based insights into organisational behaviour to advise boards, resolve complex workplace dynamics, and lead large-scale structural transitions.

Research Output & Dissertations

As a research-only Master’s degree, this programme culminates in a substantial, original dissertation. Prospective students are encouraged to review past research to understand the scope, rigour, and real-world impact of the work produced within the Faculty of Management Sciences.

Masters : Master of Management Sciences in Human Resources Management

M_MSHR

Campus

Duration of Programme

SAQA Credits

NQF Level

Bloemfontein Campus

1 year (full-time) or 2 years (part-time)

180

9

Programme-Specific Requirements

Minimum Prior Qualification

An appropriate qualification at NQF Level 8, specifically:

  • A cognate Postgraduate Diploma, OR
  • A cognate Honours degree, OR
  • A cognate professional degree.

Required Academic Performance

  • A minimum average of 60% in the preceding NQF Level 8 qualification (or fourth-year level of a professional degree).
  • A minimum of 60% in the Research Methodology / Research Project component (minimum 24 credits at NQF Level 8).
  • Experience Exception: Candidates with a 55% average but more than five years of managerial experience may be considered, subject to a suitability interview.
  • Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): May be considered for applicants who do not meet the minimum academic qualification requirements, subject to specific conditions.

Programme Regulations & Provisional Admission Process

  • Degree Type & Duration: This is a research-only Master’s degree (180 SAQA credits, NQF Level 9) with no formal coursework. Duration is 1–4 years (full-time) or 2–4 years (part-time).
  • Provisional Admission Period: Students are provisionally admitted and given a maximum of 6 months (full-time) or 12 months (part-time) to prepare a research proposal. During this time, they will be exposed to three optional research modules (A, B, and C) in a seminar format.
  • Proposal Approval Process: The research proposal must first be presented at the departmental level, and subsequently to the Faculty Research and Innovation Committee (FRIC). Only upon acceptance by FRIC will the student be formally registered to proceed with empirical research.
  • Research Methodology Support: Students who scored below 60% in prior research methodology components may be required to attend special research seminars organised annually on campus for postgraduate students.
  • Termination of Admission: Failure to fulfil the proposal submission conditions within the allotted time may lead to the termination of provisional admission, unless an acceptable extenuating motivation is provided (in which case, one final extension period may be granted).
  • Graduation: After successful completion and examination of the dissertation, the Master of Management Sciences in Human Resources Management will be awarded during an official graduation ceremony of CUT.

Need the Full Programme Details? Consult the Student Calendar

We know that choosing your future is a big step! While this page gives you the key highlights, the official CUT Student Calendar is your complete, authoritative guide. We highly recommend reviewing it to see full details on this programme, including admission criteria, complete module structures, assessment rules, and what to expect during your studies.

 View the Student Calendar →

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