Human resources plays a critical role in how Australian organisations recruit, manage, and retain staff. As demand for skilled HR professionals grows, many people find themselves choosing between a Diploma of Human Resource Management and short HR courses. While both options have their place, they are not equal in terms of career outcomes.

For those looking to build a long-term career in HR, the Diploma of Human Resource Management (BSB50320) offers a far stronger foundation than short, skills-based courses.

Understanding the Difference Between a Diploma and Short HR Courses

Short HR courses are designed to cover specific topics. These might include recruitment basics, performance reviews, workplace communication, or Fair Work obligations. They are often completed quickly and are useful for gaining awareness or refreshing knowledge.

A diploma, however, is a nationally recognised qualification that prepares learners to operate confidently across the full HR function. It is structured, assessed, and aligned with real workplace responsibilities.

The key difference lies in depth, recognition, and application.

What Is the Diploma of Human Resource Management (BSB50320)?

The Diploma of Human Resource Management (BSB50320) is an accredited course meeting Australian Qualifications Framework requirement and is recognised by employers across industries.

At Right Choice Training, this qualification is delivered as a flexible online course, allowing students to study around work and personal commitments while gaining job-ready HR skills.

This diploma is designed for people who want to:

• Start a career in human resources
• Move from administration or management into HR
• Formalise existing HR experience with a recognised qualification

What You Learn in a Diploma of Human Resource Management

Unlike short courses that focus on one topic at a time, a diploma develops a complete understanding of HR operations.

Core learning areas include:

• Recruitment, selection, and onboarding processes
• Workforce planning and organisational development
• Employee relations and performance management
• Workplace health and safety responsibilities
• Australian employment law and Fair Work compliance
• Learning and development strategies
• HR policies, procedures, and reporting

This holistic approach reflects how HR functions operate in real workplaces.

Why Employers Prefer a Diploma Qualification

In Australia’s job market, HR roles require more than basic knowledge. Employers look for candidates who understand compliance, risk, people management, and organisational strategy.

A Diploma of Human Resource Management (BSB50320) signals that a candidate:

• Has completed structured, assessed training
• Understands Australian workplace legislation
• Can apply HR principles in practical situations
• Is prepared for responsibility, not just support tasks

Short HR courses, while useful, rarely meet these expectations on their own.

Career Opportunities With a Diploma of Human Resource Management

One of the main reasons people choose a diploma is the range of career pathways it supports.

Graduates may pursue roles such as:

• HR Officer
• HR Administrator
• People and Culture Coordinator
• Recruitment Consultant
• HR Advisor (entry-level)

The qualification also provides a pathway to advanced diplomas or university study for those looking to progress further.

Short courses typically do not open these doors unless paired with significant experience.

Practical Skills vs Theoretical Knowledge

A major advantage of completing a diploma is the focus on practical application.

Through real-world scenarios and assessments, learners are required to:

• Develop HR policies and procedures
• Interpret awards and employment contracts
• Respond to workplace issues appropriately
• Apply legislation correctly in HR decisions

This hands-on approach builds confidence and competence—two qualities employers value highly.

Short courses often explain concepts but do not assess whether learners can apply them in real HR situations.

Studying HR Online With Right Choice Training

Right Choice Training delivers the Diploma of Human Resource Management (BSB50320) as an online course, making it accessible to students across Australia.

Online delivery offers:

• Flexible study schedules
• The ability to learn while working
• Access to structured course materials and assessments
• A practical pathway for career changers and working professionals

For many learners, this flexibility makes completing a diploma achievable without putting careers or family commitments on hold.

Cost, Time, and Long-Term Value

Short HR courses often appear cheaper at first. However, when learners complete multiple short courses to cover different HR areas, the total investment can quickly add up.

A diploma offers:

• A single, recognised qualification
• Broader skill development
• Stronger employability outcomes

When measured against career progression and earning potential, the diploma delivers better long-term value.

Who Should Choose a Diploma Over Short Courses?

A Diploma of Human Resource Management is the better choice if you:

• Want to enter the HR profession
• Need a nationally recognised qualification
• Aim to work in corporate, government, or growing organisations
• Plan to progress into senior HR roles in the future

Short courses work best as supplementary learning, not as a replacement for formal training.

When Short HR Courses Still Make Sense

Short courses can be useful for:

• Managers needing HR awareness
• Business owners managing staff
• HR professionals updating specific skills

In these cases, short courses complement experience rather than replace qualifications.

Final Verdict: 

For anyone serious about building a career in human resources, a Diploma of Human Resource Management (BSB50320) is a better choice than short HR courses.

It provides broader knowledge, stronger credibility, and clearer career pathways. When delivered online through Right Choice Training, it also offers the flexibility many Australian learners need.

Short courses can enhance skills, but a diploma builds a career.

FAQ:

What is the Diploma of Human Resource Management (BSB50320)?

The Diploma of Human Resource Management (BSB50320) is a nationally recognised Australian qualification that prepares learners for operational and advisory roles in human resources. It covers recruitment, employee relations, performance management, workplace compliance, and HR policy development.

Is a Diploma of Human Resource Management better than short HR courses?

Yes, for most career-focused learners. A diploma provides broader skills, formal recognition, and stronger employability than short HR courses, which usually focus on individual topics and are best suited for upskilling rather than career entry.

Who should study the Diploma of Human Resource Management?

This qualification is suitable for:

• People starting a career in HR
• Administrative or management staff moving into HR roles
• Professionals wanting a recognised HR qualification
• Those seeking long-term career progression in human resources

Can I study the Diploma of Human Resource Management online?

Yes. Right Choice Training offers the Diploma of Human Resource Management (BSB50320) as an online course, allowing students across Australia to study flexibly while balancing work and personal commitments.

Is the Diploma of Human Resource Management nationally recognised in Australia?

Yes. The Diploma of Human Resource Management (BSB50320) is an accredited course meeting Australian Qualifications Framework requirement and is recognised by employers across industries..

What jobs can I get with a Diploma of HR Management?

Graduates may be eligible for roles such as:

• HR Officer
• HR Administrator
• People and Culture Coordinator
• Recruitment Consultant
• Entry-level HR Advisor

Actual outcomes depend on experience and workplace requirements.

How long does it take to complete the Diploma of HR Management?

The duration varies depending on study pace and delivery mode. Online learners often complete the qualification within 12 months, though flexible options may allow faster or extended completion depending on individual circumstances.

Are short HR courses still useful after completing a diploma?

Yes. Short HR courses can be useful for:

• Updating knowledge in specific areas
• Learning about new legislation or HR tools
• Professional development once working in HR

They work best as supplementary learning, not as a replacement for a diploma.

Does the Diploma of HR Management cover Australian employment law?

Yes. The qualification includes training on Australian workplace relations, Fair Work obligations, awards, and compliance, ensuring learners understand their responsibilities in real workplace settings.

Is the Diploma of HR Management suitable for career changers?

Yes. Many students use the diploma as a pathway into HR from administration, customer service, or management roles, particularly when studying online through providers like Right Choice Training.

Can this diploma lead to further study?

Yes. The Diploma of Human Resource Management (BSB50320) can provide a pathway into advanced diplomas or university-level business and HR qualifications, depending on the institution.