Corvinus University of Budapest

What you'll study

This postgraduate diploma combines core human resource management theory with applied tools for strategic HR work. Teaching typically covers modules such as:

• Strategic Human Resource Management – aligning HR priorities with organisational strategy, HR planning and HR metrics.
• Organisational Behaviour and Development – diagnosing organisational issues, designing interventions and supporting change processes.
• Employee Relations and Employment Law – fundamentals of labour law, collective relations and compliant HR practice in the Hungarian and European context.
• Talent Management and Learning & Development – recruitment and selection strategies, succession planning, learning design and leadership development.
• Performance Management and Reward – designing performance appraisal systems, total reward frameworks and pay-for-performance models.
• HR Analytics and Digital HR – using HR data, basic analytics methods and HR information systems to inform decisions.
• Consulting and Business Partnering Skills – stakeholder management, influencing, coaching, project management and communication for HR professionals.
• Applied Project or Capstone – a workplace-linked project, consultancy assignment or case-based study that integrates learning and demonstrates practical impact.

Delivery is typically a mix of lectures, seminars, case studies, workshops and group projects. Practical elements such as simulations, employer guest sessions and real-world projects are commonly used to develop consulting and implementation skills.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in business, economics, social sciences, psychology or a related field. Significant professional experience in HR or a related role is usually advantageous and, in some cases, required for those without an HR-focused undergraduate degree. Standard application materials include a CV, a motivation letter explaining career aims, and academic transcripts; shortlisted candidates may be invited to an interview or assessment.

Because the programme uses both Hungarian and English resources in different modules, applicants must meet the university’s language requirements for the delivery language of the intake they apply to. Specific documentation and proof of language proficiency should be checked with the admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that bridge HR and business leadership. Typical career destinations include:

• HR Business Partner roles supporting specific business units or functions
• HR generalist or HR manager positions responsible for end-to-end HR delivery
• Organisational Development or Change Management specialist roles
• Talent acquisition and talent management positions
• Compensation & benefits analyst and performance management roles
• Internal HR consultant or project manager within HR transformation programmes

Alumni commonly progress into senior HR functions in multinational companies, domestic firms, public sector organisations and HR consultancies. The programme is designed to help practitioners move from operational HR tasks to roles that contribute to strategic decision-making and organisational effectiveness.

Why study at Corvinus University of Budapest

Corvinus is Hungary’s leading university in economics and social sciences with a long tradition of applied teaching and research in management and HR. The university’s strong links with employers and the Budapest business community provide opportunities for practical projects, guest lectures and recruitment contacts. Teaching is delivered by faculty with academic and practitioner experience, and the curriculum emphasises tools and methods used by HR professionals in Central Europe and internationally.

Studying in Budapest offers proximity to a diverse corporate environment, including multinational headquarters and regional firms, which can be valuable for placements and networking. The programme’s practical orientation, applied capstone project and focus on business partnering skills make it suitable for those seeking a career shift into strategic HR roles or for HR practitioners aiming to enhance their impact on organisational performance.