Santa Clara University

What you'll study

This undergraduate programme combines core business studies with specialised human resources modules and practical experience. Students take foundational courses in accounting, finance, marketing and statistics alongside HR-focused subjects that explore the full employee lifecycle.

• Core business foundations: introductory accounting, principles of management, organisational behaviour, business law and quantitative methods for business.
• Human resources core modules: recruitment and selection, training and development, performance management, compensation and benefits, employment law and workplace safety.
• Strategic and analytical HR: strategic human resources management, HR analytics and metrics, talent management and workforce planning.
• Industrial relations and ethics: labour relations, collective bargaining, dispute resolution and ethics in the workplace—reflecting the university's emphasis on responsible leadership.
• Practical learning: internship or practicum placement with local employers, project-based courses, case studies and a senior capstone project that applies HR theory to real organisational problems.
• Electives and special topics: human resource information systems (HRIS), diversity and inclusion, change management, and sector-specific HR practices (for technology, healthcare or nonprofit organisations).

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary school qualification with a competitive academic record. The programme looks for demonstrated achievement in English and quantitative subjects and a readiness for business study.

• Completed secondary school diploma or equivalent from an accredited institution.
• Academic transcripts showing strong performance in relevant subjects; post-secondary transfer applicants should provide college transcripts.
• Personal statement or essay outlining interest in human resources, leadership or service, and how the applicant's goals align with the programme.
• One or more academic or professional recommendations are typically requested.
• Applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate English proficiency through an accepted qualification unless otherwise exempted.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of HR and people-focused roles across private, public and nonprofit sectors. The programme emphasises practical skills and ethical decision-making that employers value.

• Entry-level HR roles such as HR assistant, recruiter or talent acquisition coordinator.
• Specialist positions including training and development specialist, compensation and benefits analyst, HRIS analyst and employee relations advisor.
• Opportunities in organisational development, change management, diversity and inclusion initiatives, labour relations and talent management.
• Graduates may also pursue professional HR certifications or further study in business, law or organisational psychology to advance into senior HR leadership or consultancy roles.
• Location advantage: proximity to Silicon Valley and a strong local employer network supports internships and placements in technology, healthcare and other industries demanding skilled HR professionals.

Why study at Santa Clara University

Santa Clara University combines a business curriculum with a Jesuit tradition that emphasises ethics, social responsibility and leadership in service of others. The Leavey School of Business integrates classroom learning with practical experience and close industry links.

• Practical opportunities: access to internships, industry projects and a capstone that connect students with local employers and HR practitioners.
• Ethics and leadership focus: coursework and co-curricular activities stress ethical decision-making, inclusive leadership and community engagement.
• Small classes and faculty access: opportunities to learn from faculty with academic and professional HR experience and to receive personalised career guidance.
• Student networks: student clubs, a chapter of professional HR organisations and career services that help prepare students for recruitment processes and professional certification.