Human Resource -Management and Organisational Psychology
What will you learn?
This master’s programme in Human Resource Management and Organisational Psychology focuses on leadership, human resources, and workplace psychology, equipping students with the skills to develop people and organisations effectively. Emphasis is placed on analytical thinking, communication, and strategic decision-making to prepare graduates for leadership roles in diverse organisational settings.
Students will gain comprehensive knowledge in human resource management, leadership, and organisational behaviour, as well as strategy and change-management. The curriculum also covers commercial and labour law principles, providing a solid foundation for navigating legal and ethical aspects of HR. The programme takes a process-oriented approach to HR management and ensures students understand the global workforce landscape and dynamics.
A choice between two paths
Students can choose between a programme structure leading to a Master of Science (MSc) in Human Resource Management and Organizational Psychology and a structure leading to a postgraduate qualification (MHRM). Both structures require 90 ECTS credits. The curriculum can be completed in three terms, with full-time study in the autumn, spring, and summer.
MSc degree
Students finish 60 ECTS credits in courses according to the programme structure and 30 ECTS credits in their master‘s thesis.
Postgraduate qualification (MHRM)
Students finish 90 ECTS credits in courses according to the programme structure and can take an internship of up to 15 ECTS credits.
How will I learn?
Traditional classroom learning
Master's programmes in the Department of Business and Economics are on site.
Global expertise in English
Courses are conducted in English by both Icelandic and international specialists, offering students a global perspective on the material.
Organisation of teaching
The Department of Business and Economics courses are offered in two formats: as intensive modules with full-day sessions spanning two to four consecutive days or as weekly classes. Classes may be scheduled in the afternoon and on Saturdays.
Assessment
Courses feature a combination of assessment components, including group projects, individual assignments, and written or oral exams. Students may expect assignments and exams to occur outside of classroom hours, with final assessments typically completed shortly after each course concludes.
Internship
Students may pursue internships instead of elective courses, earning 7,5 or 15 ECTS credits. Each student is assigned a supervisor from the host company or institution and a faculty advisor for the duration of the internship. Internships are especially beneficial for students with limited work experience or those aiming to use their studies to explore new career opportunities.
*For further information, see the Guidelines for Internships in Master's Programmes.
What next?
Future prospects
Graduates hold in-depth knowledge of human resource management and the role of leadership. They also have great insight into business topics such as strategy, business law and economics, ethics, and responsible management.
Upon completion of their studies, students should be able to:
- Apply the tools and methods of human resource management.
- Be leaders in different work environments.
- Apply best practices and procedures in business practices, strategy, operations, finance, and legal issues.
- Critically evaluate organisational behaviour, leadership, and human resource management methods to propose and implement improvements.
- Apply critical thinking and solve issues and situations from the point of view of ethical behaviour, responsible management, and sustainability.
- Initiate projects, manage them and take responsibility for the work of individuals and groups.
- Describe complex academic topics and/or theoretically substantiated conclusions, alone or in collaboration.
- Make independent, professional decisions and substantiate them.
- Disseminate statistical information.
- Work independently and systematically, set goals, and plan and implement solutions to various problems.
- Express the importance of ethical and responsible business practices and initiate efforts to promote responsible management in the profession and/or within organisations.
Area of work
The programme prepares individuals for management and human resource development jobs in a demanding work environment. Graduated students work in management, consulting, human resources, training, and change management, among other areas.
Any Questions?
We have been pleased with the interns assigned to us through Marel's human resources service in Iceland. We invite them to join the team immediately and work on genuine projects. The interns have shown independence and a genuine drive to offer qualified solutions. This allows us to produce new ideas and determine whether Marel's human resource services align with the most recent RU theories.
RU interns have substantially improved our human resources activities and added new perspectives. We can assign them appropriate duties and invite them to join us in larger and smaller projects. We find it quite beneficial to have them working for us. Further, we receive new ideas and insight into the teaching of human resource management, which is ideal to utilise in the workplace.
Structure
Programme structure
Length of study
14 months (three terms).
Terms
- Autumn: August to December
- Spring: January to May
- Summer: May to September
Maximum study period
The programme structure is based on full-time study but students have the opportunity to study part-time. The maximum study period is two years (six terms).
Choice between two paths
Students can choose between a programme structure leading to a Master of Science (MSc) in Human Resource Management and Organizational Psychology and a structure leading to a postgraduate qualification (MHRM). Both structures require 90 ECTS credits. The curriculum can be completed in three terms, with full-time study in the autumn, spring, and summer terms.
MSc degree
Students finish 60 ECTS credits in courses according to the programme structure and a 30 ECTS credit master‘s thesis.
Postgraduate qualification (MHRM)
Students finish 90 ECTS credits in courses according to the programme structure and have the opportunity to take an internship of up to 15 ECTS credits.
Note
- Students with fewer than 30 ECTS in business administration in their bachelor's degree must take the following courses instead of electives in their first term:
- V-700-IMBU Introduction to Management and Business Concepts (0 ECTS)
- V-737-FAFI Fundamentals of Accounting and Finance (7.5 ECTS)
- Students can complete internships for a maximum of 15 ECTS credits instead of electives.
- The curriculum provides more information about the courses.
Facilities
Services and Good Facilities
Reykjavik University has facilities for practical teaching, group study rooms, a canteen, study and career counselling, and other student services.
Class Rooms and Reading Rooms
Reykjavík University has outstanding facilities for teaching, reading, and student collaboration. The classrooms are well-equipped, and students can use group work areas. Students have access to general facilities all day and night.
Excellent Service
The university facility offers easy access to study and career help, an international office, and technical aid. The library provides excellent and diverse working facilities. It also provides access to books and scholarly publications, and information specialists host open hours during which students can browse around, ask questions, and obtain assistance with reference work.
Shops and Cafe
RU facilities include the Háskólabúðin (convenience store), a cafe, a World Class training facility, and the Málið canteen.
Why choose our master’s programmes?
- Accelerated timeline: Earn your master’s degree in just 14 months with our full-time study programme.
- Exceptional internship opportunities: Gain hands-on experience with industry-leading organisations.
- Global expertise: Learn from both national and international specialists, offering a diverse and global perspective.
- Industry-aligned curriculum: Designed in collaboration with leading Icelandic firms, the programmes address both local and global business challenges.
- Courses delivered in English: All programmes are delivered in English, except Accounting and Auditing.