Human Resource Studies
In the Master's program Human Resource Studies, you become a human resources expert, specialized in the relationship between work, well-being, and performance. You look for the ideal balance between organizational performance and employee interest. With a strong international focus, you learn to combine insights from social sciences and business studies in HR-policies which improve individual, team, and, ultimately, organizational performance.
Education and COVID-19
All education takes place on campus again, now that the coronavirus measures have been scaled back. Of course, we will always maintain a safe environment for our students and staff. Therefore, a few basic measures still apply. For the latest updates on the COVID-19 situation, see our FAQs for prospective students.
National Alumni Survey, 2021 | n=31
National Alumni Survey, 2021 | n=31
Program and courses
Become equipped to analyze and advise on HR, work, and organizational issues, such as understanding the foundation of HR decisions and their consequences for work, well-being, and performance; or to implement new HR policies in the context of a changing environment.
- Human Resource Studies in Tilburg is the first scientific education program in the field of human resources in the Netherlands (since 1986), and the largest department of HR experts in Europe.
- Courses reflect the research expertise of the staff, which belongs to one of the leading academic centers in HR studies in Europe.
- The program offers plenty of elective courses so you can tailor your program and specialize in one central topic within HRM, such as Talent Management, Compensation & Benefits, Inclusive HRM, Strength based HRM, or HRM & Labor Law.
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The international orientation and practice-oriented approach give you a head start on the labor market.
Typical courses are:
- Seminar Human Resource Studies
- HR Analytics
- Organizational Change
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Mirela Koeva
Extended Master’s student"The topics in the program have real-life applications and we follow current and upcoming employment trends. By choosing between several electives you can really customize the Master to your own interest."
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Renate Rijnbeek
Master's student"Because you combine scientific research with practice, you are well prepared for the professional field. The program is diverse and offers room for your own interests."
Career prospects
After completing this program, you are equipped to analyze and advise on HR, work and organizational issues. You understand the fundamentals of HR decisions and their consequences for work, well-being, and performance. You are prepared for HR positions with an emphasis on analytical, strategic and leadership qualities in the public and private sector, as well as for careers in research and consultancy. You could work as an all round HR professional or specialist, in talent management, HR analytics, or compensation & benefits.
Graduates found work at:
- Rabobank
- Philips
- Capgemini Nederland
Alumni facts
- On average 2 months until first paid job
- 97% find a job within 6 months after graduation
- Gross monthly income: €2,951
Source: National Alumni Survey, 2021| n = 31

Application and admission
This program starts:
- End of August and end of January (Master’s program)
- End of August (Pre-Master’s program)
Best preparatory programs:
Business Studies, Human Resource Studies, Organization Studies, Psychology, and Sociology.
Pre-Master’s program:
Half-year (30 ECTS) pre-Master’s program available if your previous program is relevant but does not meet the required entry level, for example a Bachelor's degree from a University of Applied Sciences.
Tuition fees and scholarships
International students find all information about tuition fees and scholarships here.
Interested in this Master's program?
More information on this Master's program
Download the brochure with information on program content, admission requirements, career prospects, housing and immigration matters, and student life in Tilburg. Throughout the year you can take part in various types of events: on-campus, abroad or online.
Interested in the MSc Human Resource Studies?
Check your eligibility and the deadlines for application
Related Master’s programs
- Organizing for Global Social Challenges track
- Organization and Management Studies
- Politics, Policy and Societal Development track
- Research Master in Psychology: Individual Differences and Assessment
- Sociology: Politics, Policy and Society in Comparative Perspective
- Work and Organizational Psychology