The Diploma in Industrial Relations (Dip IR) is an intensive and integrative program designed to provide a foundational yet comprehensive understanding of the dynamics between labor and management. It serves as the primary entry point for professionals looking to pivot into or advance within the fields of Human Resources and Labor Relations.

As a ladderized program, the credits earned in the Diploma can be applied toward the Master of Industrial Relations (MIR) degree, provided the student meets the necessary grade requirements.

The Diploma program consists of 21 units of core integrative courses. These courses are curated to provide a multidisciplinary perspective, drawing from:

• Labor Studies

• Labor Economics

• Political Economy

• Labor Law and Legislation

• Organizational Behavior

• Human Resource Management

• Research Methods in Industrial Relations

The Diploma in Industrial Relations curriculum is composed of the following courses:

• Introduction to Industrial Relations

• Labor and the Economy

• Organization and Work

• Employment Relations and Industrial Democracy

• Labor Standards, Justice and Equity

• Research Methods in Industrial Relations

• Specialization Course (see Master of Industrial Relations Program)

Whether applying for the Standard (On-site) or Online program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Basic Eligibility: A Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized institution.

• Work Experience: Preferably at least two (2) years of related work experience.

• Application Fee: Php 600.00
  
  

Required Documents:

1. Transcript of Records (TOR): Original or properly authenticated.

2. Birth Certificate & Marriage Contract (if applicable).

3. Application Forms: Forms A, B, and C.

• Proof of Residence: (For Online Applicants) Utility bills or a residence certificate to verify location outside Metro Manila. 

Students must complete the Diploma program with a  Weighted Average of 1.75 or better. They are also eligible to advance to the Master of Industrial Relations  or MIR program. This allows for a seamless transition from foundational knowledge to specialized expertise.

To accommodate working students, classes are primarily held on weekday evenings (6:00 PM – 9:00 PM) and Saturdays. 

Admissions & Eligibility

Am I eligible to apply if my undergraduate degree is not in HR or Psychology?

Yes. We welcome applicants with a bachelor’s degree (or its equivalent) from any academic or professional discipline. While not strictly required, we prefer applicants with at least two (2) years of work experience or a demonstrated interest in industrial relations and human resource management.

Is there a minimum General Weighted Average (GWA) requirement?

Ideally, applicants should have a GWA of 2.00 or higher. However, the Admission Committee performs a holistic review, evaluating each application based on a combination of academic records, professional credentials and results from the entrance examinations.

I cannot contact a former professor for a recommendation. Are there alternatives?

Yes. You may submit two (2) recommendation forms from your current or former supervisors/employers. Recommenders have the option to send their forms directly to the school via email.

Entrance Examination & Interview

What is the application process for the entrance exam?

Once you have uploaded your required documents via Google Forms, the Office of the College Secretary (OCS) will send a confirmation email within 2 to 3 working days. This email will contain instructions for the Php 600.00 application fee and further exam details.

What is the coverage of the entrance exam?

The examination evaluates several core competencies, including:

• Analytical Skills: Abstract and logical reasoning.

• Communication: Writing and verbal skills.

• General Knowledge: Current affairs, national development, industrial relations, HR/organizational development, labor administration, and relevant laws/policies.

How will the exams and interviews be conducted?

• Entrance Exam: Held on-site at Bonifacio Hall, School of Labor and Industrial Relations for regular/residential DipIR. Online examinations shall be held for the online DipIR applicants.

• Interview: Conducted for applications with conditional results from the entrance exams. It is conducted virtually via Zoom.

Program Structure & Logistics

Can I skip the Diploma in Industrial Relations (DipIR) and go straight to the Master’s program?

No. Our Master’s degree is a ladderized program. All students must first complete 21 units with a minimum grade average of 1.75. Upon meeting these requirements, students are conferred the Diploma in Industrial Relations (DipIR) and become eligible to proceed to the Master of Industrial Relations (MIR) program.

What is the class schedule and recommended unit load?

To accommodate our professional students, classes are held outside standard business hours:

• Monday to Friday: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

• Saturday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM

The recommended load for working students is 3 to 6 units per semester. Enrolling in additional units requires evaluation by a program adviser and endorsement from the College Secretary.

How are classes delivered?

SOLAIR utilizes a blended learning model:

• Online DipIR (ODIP) Courses: Offered purely online.

• Blended Classes: A mix of synchronous and asynchronous sessions conducted face-to-face or via platforms such as Zoom, MS Teams, and Google Meet.

• Resources: Asynchronous learning is supported through the University Virtual Learning Environment (UVLE).

Tuition & Fees

How much is the tuition fee?

Tuition is calculated at Php 2,000.00 per unit. For a standard load of six (6) units, the estimated cost is approximately Php 14,000.00 per semester, which includes miscellaneous fees and the student fund. Payment can be made online or at the Diliman Cash Office.