Best Online Human Resources MBA Programs of 2023

Updated September 27, 2023

An online MBA in human resources can jumpstart your career. Explore our rankings of the best online HR MBA programs, and learn what you can do with your degree.

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An MBA in human resources covers core knowledge in management fundamentals and an in-depth understanding of labor law, employee relations, training, and compensation.

With a human resources MBA, graduates can expect high salaries. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported a median annual salary of over $125,000 for human resources managers and compensation and benefits managers in 2021 — much higher than the national median for all other occupations.

Our rankings provide detailed descriptions of the best online programs in human resources. Discover the benefits of earning a human resources MBA, what to expect as a student, and potential careers in the field. We also discuss factors to consider when searching for your ideal online MBA program.

What Is Human Resources?

Human resources management can be traced back to early 20th-century Europe, where an escalating pressure to increase business profits and the need to protect workers' welfare gave birth to the discipline of personnel administration.

While the field of personnel administration initially focused on enhancing industrial efficiency through strategic personnel management, the discipline has since evolved to include talent retention, succession planning, and industrial and labor relations.

Virtually all larger organizations employ graduates from MBA programs in human resources. Graduates with human resource MBAs find employment as training and development managers, employee experience directors, and chief people officers.

These human resources professionals identify ways to reduce personnel costs, coordinate employee development programs, and design protocols for maintaining a friendly work environment.

MBA programs in human resources appeal to aspiring business administrators interested in group dynamics in workplaces, factors that play into employee satisfaction, and the effects of organizational culture and rewards on productivity. Human resources MBAs also commonly attract seasoned professionals looking to advance professionally.

Why Should You Get a Human Resources MBA?

Earning a human resources MBA can help budding and experienced human resources (HR) professionals secure advanced managerial positions. A general MBA also can do this — so why pursue the HR MBA concentration?

An MBA with a concentration in human resources can help graduates pursue corporate leadership positions in various industries. Additional benefits of pursuing a human resources MBA include a high earning potential, job stability, and having a positive impact on an organization's employee policies and relations:

  • High Earning Potential: A human resources MBA offers a stepping stone to high-paying managerial positions. For example, the BLS reported a median annual pay of $126,230 for human resource managers in 2021.
  • Job Stability: Earning a degree from an MBA program in HR develops versatile skills that easily transfer across different managerial occupations. The degree's adaptability makes it a valuable credential.
  • Having a Positive Impact: Many HR managerial positions require navigating workplace bullying, sexual misconduct, and grievance procedures. Individuals with strong people skills and a knack for solving interpersonal conflicts may find it satisfying to address these unique challenges.

Online MBA Programs for You

Grow your career, leadership, and business acumen with an accredited online MBA program.

Best Online HR MBA Programs 2023

Explore our rankings of the top five online human resources MBA programs of 2023. Follow the link below to learn more about our ranking methodology.

#1 Best Online Human Resources MBA Programs of 2023

Purdue University-Main Campus

  • West Lafayette, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Purdue University is a public institution located in West Lafayette, Indiana. The school was founded in 1869 and named after businessman John Purdue. It is an original member of the Big Ten Conference.

Online MBA with a Human Resources Concentration

Purdue Global's online MBA program with a concentration in human resources prepares students for leadership roles within the human resources industry. The program's HR concentration aligns with the curricular guidelines for the Society for Human Resource Management.

Enrollees complete 60 credit hours of core MBA classes, including financial management, business communications, and marketing management. They then complete 16 credits in the human resources concentration.

To help them land jobs after graduation, learners can access Purdue's career advancement center, which includes resources like resume reviews, virtual job fairs, and networking opportunities.

Purdue Global's Affordability

Purdue's human resources MBA program charges $485 per credit. 76 credits are required for graduation. Students that attended Purdue Global's undergraduate business program can apply for an accelerated MBA option.

Students enrolled in Purdue Global's online MBA program are eligible for a variety of financial aid options, including grants, scholarships, and federal loans. The school also offers tuition reduction and assistance programs for active-duty service members, veterans, and international students.

Program at a Glance 

  • School Type: Public
  • Accreditation: HLC; ACBSP
  • Tuition: $485/credit
  • Required Credits: 76 credits
  • Program Length: 2.5 years
  • Delivery Format: 100% online
  • Admissions
    • Process: Applicants need a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Prospective students submit transcripts, a resume, and an application. 
    • Cost: Free
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,208
Out-of-state
$28,010
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,208
Out-of-state
$28,010
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
46,655
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
82% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#2 Best Online Human Resources MBA Programs of 2023

Averett University-Non-Traditional Programs

  • Danville, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Averett University is a private school in Danville, Virginia. The institution serves almost 1,500 students, with almost 600 enrolled in online programs. Averett offers over 30 undergraduate majors and five master's programs.

Online Human Resource Management MBA

The online human resource management MBA at Averett University is designed to help working professionals gain executive-level knowledge in business and human resources. Courses run in eight-week blocks, and learners take 1-2 classes each term.

Enrollees take MBA core classes including organizational behavior, marketing strategies, and managerial economics. The human resource management concentration consists of three courses: compensation and benefits, recruiting, and labor laws.

The program is offered 100% online in an asynchronous format, which means learners do not meet for prescheduled course meetings. Students can complete weekly assignments and respond to required group discussions on a more flexible timeline.

Averett's Affordability

Tuition for Averett's online HR MBA costs $655 per credit. The program is accelerated, with most students graduating in fewer than two years. Averett enrollees can connect with the school's financial aid counselors to learn about scholarships, grants, and loans to help pay for their education.

Program at a Glance 

  • School Type: Private
  • Accreditation: SACSCOC
  • Tuition: $655/credit
  • Required Credits: 40 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years or fewer
  • Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
  • Admissions
    • Process: Prospective students complete an admission application. They submit official transcripts and a copy of a valid government ID.
    • GPA: 3.0 in the last 60 credit hours of undergraduate study
    • Cost: Free
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,520
Out-of-state
$11,520
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,790
Out-of-state
$11,790
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
9%
Students Enrolled
472
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Best Online Human Resources MBA Programs of 2023

Southern New Hampshire University

  • Manchester, NH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University is a private not-for-profit school that offers a mix of traditional and online degree programs. The school currently enrolls over 3,000 students on campus and more than 170,000 online learners.

Online MBA with a Human Resources Concentration

Southern New Hampshire University offers an accelerated online MBA degree that students can complete in one year. The institution offers multiple MBA concentrations, including human resources. 

The program includes seven core courses and three HR concentration courses. All classes include scenario-based learning to help students practice course content in real-world contexts.

In addition to the school's faculty, enrollees learn from industry leaders through guest lectures. The degree helps prepare learners for industry credentials and certificates, which they can earn as they complete the program.

SNHU's Affordability

The total tuition cost for SNHU's human resources MBA program is $18,810. Tuition discounts are available for active-duty military and their spouses. Online students at SNHU may qualify for scholarships and loans.

Program at a Glance 

  • School Type: Private
  • Accreditation: NECHE; ACBSP
  • Tuition: $627/credit
  • Required Credits: 30 credits
  • Program Length: 1 year
  • Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
  • Admissions
    • Process: Prospective students submit an application online, which includes undergraduate transcripts.
    • Cost: Free
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,600
Out-of-state
$9,600
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,810
Out-of-state
$18,810
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
134,345
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
96% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#4 Best Online Human Resources MBA Programs of 2023

California State University-Stanislaus

  • Turlock, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Stanislaus State is one of 23 schools in the California State University system. The college is located in Turlock, California. The university offers multiple master's programs, including an MBA.

MBA with a Concentration in Human Resource Management

The Stanislaus State human resource management MBA is an accredited online program designed to meet the needs of working professionals and executives. Courses are run asynchronously to offer maximum flexibility.

The HR concentration helps prepare students to earn certifications from the Society for Human Resource Management or the HR Certification Institute. The skills learners develop can qualify them for operational, strategic, and administrative human resource roles. 

Enrollees take three concentration courses alongside their core MBA classes. Available HR classes include compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and strategic human resource management.

Stanislaus State's Affordability

The total tuition for the online MBA program with an HR concentration is $27,600. The CSU system also offers a graduate equity fellowship program for CSU students, which Stanislaus State graduate students may qualify for.

Program at a Glance 

  • School Type: Public
  • Accreditation: WSCUC, AACSB
  • Tuition: $920/credit
  • Required Credits: 30 credits
  • Program Length: 2 years
  • Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
  • Admissions
    • Process: The application process includes an admissions application, a resume detailing at least two years of work experience, a statement of purpose, unofficial undergraduate transcripts, and two recommendations.
    • GPA: 2.8
    • Cost: $70
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$16,680
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
89%
Students Enrolled
11,163
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#5 Best Online Human Resources MBA Programs of 2023

University of North Texas

  • Denton, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of North Texas is based in Denton, Texas. In addition to the main campus, the school also offers classes online and through their Frisco campus.

Online MBA with an Organizational Behavior and Human Resources Concentration

The online MBA program with an organizational behavior and human resources concentration at the University of North Texas is a 36-credit program that can be completed in as few as 14 months with the accelerated track. Students take 12 classes, including eight core MBA courses and four concentration courses.

Students learn about a variety of human resources skills, including labor relations, hiring, and compensation. They also study organizational change and leadership.

The MBA program is 100% online with three terms: fall, spring, and summer. Some of the classes are available at the school's Denton or Frisco campuses for enrollees seeking a hybrid learning experience.

UNT's Affordability

In-state students at UNT only pay $175 per credit, while out-of-state online learners pay $475 per credit.

Program at a Glance 

  • School Type: Public
  • Accreditation: SACSCOC, AACSB
  • Tuition: $175/credit (in-state); $475/credit (out-of-state)
  • Required Credits: 36 credits
  • Program Length: 14 months
  • Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous); hybrid
  • Admissions
    • Process: Prospective students submit an application, test scores, three letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and transcripts.
    • Standardized Tests: GRE or GMAT (waivers available)
    • Cost: $75
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,295
Out-of-state
$18,111
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,350
Out-of-state
$13,712
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
40,953
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
72% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

What To Expect From an Online MBA in Human Resources

Earning an online human resources MBA typically requires 60 credits and takes two years of full-time study. Accelerated MBA programs allow students to complete the degree in one year. Some schools provide hybrid degree options, combining distance-learning courses with a brief on-campus residency.

A typical human resources MBA curriculum comprises foundational business classes, electives in HR management, and a capstone or thesis seminar. Common core business courses include business strategy, financial management, and statistical analysis. Popular HR electives cover legal issues in the workplace, labor and employee engagement, and organizational psychology.

Although business schools usually classify human resources as an MBA concentration, most programs allow learners to specialize further through a combination of HR electives. Examples of specializations include employment law, recruitment and staffing, and industrial and labor relations.

The MBA Admission Process

Most online schools for human resources require each candidate to hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university. Some programs only accept students with bachelor's degrees in business administration, human resources, or other related areas.

Applicants must submit materials like resumes, transcripts, GMAT or GRE scores, personal essays, and letters of recommendation. Programs also typically charge a nonrefundable application fee.

Minimum GPA requirements vary among schools, but many programs require a GPA above 3.0. Some schools waive entrance exam scores for distance learners. A 3.5 GPA or higher, GMAT or GRE scores in the 90th percentile, and professional business or HR experience can give applicants a competitive edge.

Human Resources Degree Options

Popular alternatives to a human resources MBA include a master of science (MS) in human resources and a master of arts (MA) in human resources. The main differences among the three degrees include available career pathways, program length, credit load, and STEM requirements.

cap

MA in Human Resources

An enrollee can complete this 30-36 credit degree, often referred to as a "master of human resources," in one year of full-time study. Graduates from an MA program in HR usually secure jobs as human resources specialists.
cap

MS in Human Resources

An MS in human resources takes around 1-2 years to complete for full-time students and requires 24-48 credits. Some MS programs require students to take more STEM courses than typical MA and MBA programs. Graduates with this degree pursue careers as human resources specialists or human resources managers.

MBAs with a human resources focus sometimes appear in different names. Other common degree names include MBA in human resource management and MBA in human resource analytics and management.

Comparing Human Resources and General MBAs

A human resources MBA presents a popular alternative to a general MBA. The two degrees both require around 60 credits and allow for successful completion in two years of full-time study.

Both programs prepare students for general management and leadership positions. However, unlike a general MBA, an MBA program in HR provides comprehensive knowledge of human resources administration, making learners more competitive for advanced managerial positions in HR departments.

Comparing Human Resources MBAs to General MBA Programs
MBA in Human Resources General MBA
Length Two years full time Two years full time
Credit Load 60 credits 60 credits
Types of Classes Labor law, human resources planning and strategy, organizational behavior, negotiation and conflict resolution  Business analytics, marketing and consumer behavior, innovation and entrepreneurship, investment management
Student Demographics College graduates and seasoned human resources employees aspiring to advance professionally College graduates and business professionals who seek to climb the career ladder
Common Careers Human resources manager, labor relations director, training and development manager, recruiting director, compensation and benefits manager financial analyst, financial manager, marketing manager, sales director, computer and information systems manager, research and development director
Goal Prepare students for careers as managers in human resource departments Prepare learners for general managerial and leadership positions

Popular Human Resources Courses

Online MBA programs in human resources typically require foundational classes in financial reporting, organizational management, and labor law. Concentration courses include human resource planning and strategy, negotiations and conflict resolution, and personnel staffing and evaluation. Human resources MBAs also commonly offer capstone seminars, allowing learners to apply their expertise to real-world business issues.

Through a study of historical and contemporary cases, students gain foundational knowledge of topics, such as recruitment processes, labor contracts, employer best practices, grievance procedures, and employee autonomy and privacy.
Learners acquire advanced knowledge of the key stages of the managerial decision-making process: planning, organizing, directing, and controlling. Enrollees work in teams to analyze case studies of real decision-making processes.
This course covers the basic principles of human resources management, such as effective leadership styles, employment planning, talent retention, and supervision of support staff. Students also acquire the practical tools needed to recruit, train, and assess employees.
Learners gain an in-depth understanding of fundamental principles of negotiations in organizational contexts. Through teamwork, enrollees acquire advanced skills in effective negotiation and bargaining in recruitment, remuneration, intra-organizational disputes, and external multi-party conflicts.
Attendees work in teams to solve real or simulated HR problems under faculty guidance. For example, projects may focus on helping local organizations address talent retention issues. At the end of the seminar, students present their findings in research papers or presentations.

How Much Will an MBA in Human Resources Cost?

Tuition for an online MBA program in human resources depends on the program's reputation, prestige, and school type (public vs. private), among other factors.

Private universities tend to charge much higher tuition rates than in-state public schools. For the 2020-2021 school year, private schools charged graduate students an average of $26,621 in tuition and fees compared to $12,394 for public school tuition — more than double the price, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. However, some schools may charge a flat rate to online learners no matter their state of residence.

Other common costs of pursuing an online MBA in HR include book expenses, fees for on-campus residencies, and lost work income. Financing options, such as merit scholarships, federal loans, grants, and fellowships, can make a human resources MBA more affordable. The following links provide further details about financing your degree.

Online MBA Programs for You

Grow your career, leadership, and business acumen with an accredited online MBA program.

Jobs for MBAs in Human Resources

Earning a human resources MBA can open doors to HR managerial positions across several industries, including research and technology, healthcare and social assistance, and finance and insurance.

An MBA with this focus prepares students for many diverse occupations. Within human research departments alone, graduates can pursue managerial positions in labor relations, compensation and benefits, and training and development. Career options for MBA HR program graduates include:

Human Resources Manager

Typical job duties include overseeing employee relations and compliance, supervising human resource staff members, and advising other managers on human resources issues, such as equal opportunity employment and workplace discrimination.

  • Required Education: Bachelor's degree, master's sometimes required
  • Job Outlook (2021-31): +7%
  • Median Annual Salary: $126,230

Training and Development Manager

Training and development managers direct educational programs and workshops for an organization's employees. Typical job duties include assessing the educational needs of employees, designing and updating training materials, and overseeing instructional workshops and seminars.

  • Required Education: Bachelor's degree, master's sometimes required
  • Job Outlook (2021-31): +7%
  • Median Annual Salary: $120,130

Compensation and Benefits Manager

Compensation and benefits managers direct businesses' payment programs. Typical responsibilities include administering and updating salary and benefits packages, ensuring regulatory compliance of compensation and benefits plans, and assessing how the organization's remuneration programs compare to competitors.

  • Required Education: Bachelor's degree
  • Job Outlook (2021-31): 2%
  • Median Annual Salary: $127,530

Labor Relations Director

Labor relations directors manage employee relations and policies. Typical job duties include negotiating and preparing labor contracts, reviewing and updating employment policies, and handling employee grievances.

Selecting Your Human Resources MBA Program

While our rankings offer a strong starting point when searching for human resources MBA programs, prospective enrollees should always perform their own research to identify their programs of choice.

Applicants should prioritize regionally accredited universities. Institutions with regional accreditation have undergone rigorous evaluation to ensure compliance with the academic standards set by the six regional accreditation bodies.

Programmatic accreditation also speaks to the value of an MBA degree. The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) sets the standards for business schools. An AACSB stamp of approval signals that a business school meets industry standards.

In their quest for MBA programs in HR, prospective students should also ensure that the school provides access to a strong alumni and human resources network. Building professional relationships can help advance MBA candidates' careers. For example, a letter of recommendation from a successful alum can significantly strengthen a candidate's future job applications.

Why You Should Get Your MBA in HR Online

Prospective students interested in human resources MBAs may wonder whether they should pursue the degree online or in person. Distance education commonly offers greater affordability, flexibility, and convenience.

Remote learning programs can provide greater affordability, as most schools charge learners less for their online MBA degrees. Opting for an online MBA can also cut expenses like on-campus activity fees and the costs of relocating, commuting, and parking.

Online formats vary by program. Some distance learning programs run synchronously with real-time class meetings to mirror the on-campus experience. Others deliver courses asynchronously with pre-recorded lectures and virtual discussion boards.

While both online formats provide the convenience of studying from home, asynchronous programs offer greater compatibility with a full-time work schedule. However, aspiring MBAs should keep in mind that the asynchronous format requires strong time management skills and willpower to avoid falling behind.

Online MBA Programs for You

Grow your career, leadership, and business acumen with an accredited online MBA program.

Frequently Asked Questions About MBA's in HR

What kind of human resources degrees are there?

At the master's level, an interested student can pursue a master of human resources, a master of science in human resources, and an MBA with a concentration in human resources. At other degree levels, learners can pursue associate, bachelor's, and doctoral degrees in human resources.

Is an MBA in HR a good option?

Yes. An MBA in HR offers a strong pathway for college graduates interested in labor laws, employee relations, and conflict resolution. The degree also suits HR professionals seeking to move to a higher position.

Are online human resources MBAs cheaper?

Yes. Many schools offer cheap online MBA programs. Public schools commonly charge in-state tuition to online students, regardless of their location. Private universities also frequently offer reduced online tuition rates.

What can I do with an MBA in human resources?

Graduates with MBAs in human resources secure managerial and leadership positions in human resources departments. Examples of HR careers include human resources managers, labor relations directors, and chief people officers.

How much does an MBA in human resources make?

Many MBAs working in a human resources department earn six-figure salaries. Benefits and compensation managers and human resources managers earn median annual salaries of over $125,000.

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