Last Updated: February 3, 2021
By pursuing an MBA in human resources (HR), students prepare for careers in a variety of industries. The degree equips students to train personnel, handle benefit administration, and oversee payroll. HR managers may also specialize in labor relations or recruitment.
Graduates specializing in HR can benefit from plentiful opportunities. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects demand for HR managers to grow 6% between 2019 and 2029, faster than the national average for all occupations.
Companies of all sizes require human resource management, and MBA graduates can enjoy a wealth of career choices. HR workers pursuing an MBA study foundational business knowledge, which can open the door to jobs and advancement opportunities beyond HR.
On this page, prospective students can learn more about the top 10 best online master's degrees in human resources, plus details about what to expect during and after the MBA program.
2021's 10 Best Online Master's Degrees in Human Resources
| Rank | School | Location |
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| 1 | Pennsylvania State University | University Park, PA |
| 2 | Averett University | Danville, VA |
| 3 | Purdue University | West Lafayette, IN |
| 4 | University of Mary | Bismarck, ND |
| 5 | Central Michigan University | Mount Pleasant, MI |
| 6 | University of Nebraska-Lincoln | Lincoln, NE |
| 7 | Maryville University of Saint Louis | St. Louis, MO |
| 8 | Liberty University | Lynchburg, VA |
| 9 | Spring Arbor University | Spring Arbor, MI |
| 10 | Upper Iowa University | Fayette, IA |
What Is Human Resources?
HR employees handle personnel-related matters for their companies. They may help recruit new workers, oversee payroll operations, or specialize in labor relations. HR managers also deal with day-to-day tasks related to employee benefits, training, and conflict resolution.
According to Fast Company, the National Cash Register Company established the first known HR department in 1901, though the modern term "human resources" has only been in use for about 60 years. As unions rose to advocate for employee rights through the 20th century, HR departments grew to help keep companies accountable to new laws and regulations.
Today, the top industries for human resources management include companies and enterprises, local government, employment services, and computer systems design and related services. Top-paying industries include monetary authorities, scientific research and development services, and securities, commodity contracts, and other financial investments and related activities.
Human resources management professionals typically work full-time office jobs, though some positions require travel for recruitment and training purposes.
Job expectations include planning and coordinating the recruitment process, liaising between employees and management, and dealing with disciplinary issues.
HR managers may also assemble employee training and professional development sessions, ensuring that staff understand company policies related to sexual harassment and equality.
According to the BLS, 165,200 HR managers worked in the U.S. as of 2019. The site projects 10,400 jobs will add to the national economy between 2019 and 2029.
Why Get a Human Resources MBA?
The pursuit of any degree requires a significant financial investment, and prospective students may wonder whether an MBA is worth the time and money it requires. By obtaining an MBA, graduates can present potential employers with proof of their business knowledge, moving their resumes to the top of the pile. Specializing in HR further demonstrates a potential employee's expertise in the field.
Additional benefits of completing an MBA in human resources can include:
- Expertise: HR managers must balance government regulations, company expectations, and employee needs to best perform their duties. Employers rely on them to use superior communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills on a daily basis. With an MBA, graduates can obtain the experience they need to excel in the field.
- Return on Investment: According to the BLS, HR managers earned a 2019 median salary of $116,720 nationwide. MBA graduates can expect job security as companies continue to rely upon HR managers and enjoy the challenges and rewards of a people-centered career.
- Flexibility: An MBA specializing in HR prepares students with business foundations in areas like economics, finance, and leadership before branching into specialized courses. With a solid understanding of business basics, degree-holders can more easily shift career paths after graduation.
Ranking the Top 15 Online MBAs in Human Resources, 2021
With so many online learning options available, prospective business students may struggle to find the right school. Fortunately, our 2021 ranking of the best online MBA programs in human resources can help. Follow the link below to find out how we generate our rankings.
What the Best HR MBAs Have in Common
The schools on our list may vary in size, location, and curriculum, but the best schools usually have several factors in common:
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They are accredited. Accreditation is a process that evaluates colleges and universities to ensure they meet standards of academic excellence. All schools on our list hold regional accreditation from one of the bodies below:
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- The Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Some schools on our list are also accredited programmatically. This ensures that a department's curriculum prepares learners for jobs in the field. Some of our ranked schools have been examined by the following programmatic accreditation agencies:
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
- International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE)
- Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
- They are affordable. An MBA is a significant financial investment, so we consider the cost of each program when ranking schools. We measure affordability by determining the net price of attendance, the loan default rate, the percentage of students receiving scholarships or federal aid, and the average amount of aid awarded in each program. We also consider factors like return on investment (ROI) — for example, the Financial Times named the University of Nebraska Lincoln's MBA a best-value program because of graduates' high ROI.
- They are reputable. A graduate's alma mater can play an important role in their job search, so we rank each school's reputation based on percentage of applicants admitted, admissions yield, and average earnings of graduates after six years. We also consider employment rates, like those of University of Mary, where 96% of graduates are working or pursuing additional education within six months of graduation.
- They offer strong academic programs. We rank academic program quality with factors like student retention rate, graduation rate, full-time faculty proportions, student-to-faculty ratio, percentage of students enrolled online, and the emphasis the school puts on master's-level education.
1. Pennsylvania State University |
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| Public university in University Park, PA, accredited by MSCHE and AACSB | ||||
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A public school in University Park, Pennsylvania, Penn State aims to meet the educational needs of students everywhere. Penn State has 125 years of experience in distance education. Its online course offerings began in 1998. Smeal College of BusinessPenn State's MBA offers over 20 concentrations, including human resource management. The school offers several start dates each year. Students begin the program with a three-day residency on campus. The MBA curriculum includes 39 core credits with 9 credits of specialized coursework. The human resources concentration requires three classes: diversity leadership, human resource management, and positive organizational behavior and well-being. Though all classes are asynchronous, many courses include an optional synchronous discussion component. Penn State offers substantial alumni support and networking — graduates can join one of the largest dues-paying alumni associations in the country. Applying to Penn StateAll applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or equivalent. Prospective students must also complete an electronic application and provide official transcripts, GMAT or GRE test scores, two references, a resume, and an essay response. Program at a Glance
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2. Averett University |
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| Private, nonprofit university in Danville, VA, accredited by SACSCOC and AACSB | ||||
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Averett University champions working professionals through its graduate and professional studies division. Averett's accelerated degrees follow market-ready curriculum to support graduates in their career goals. Averett University College of BusinessAverett University's College of Business helps working professionals pursue higher-level business education. Averett requires no previous work experience for admission to the MBA. This fully online program allows students to take 1-2 classes at a time in six-week sessions. The graduate and professional studies courses at Averett boast a student-to-faculty ratio of 19-to-1 in and average 15 students per class. The specialized HR MBA combines coursework about foundational business administration concepts with classes focused on the human resources field. This specialized coursework includes a study of labor laws and regulations, managing conflict and negotiation, compensation and benefit management, and recruitment. Applying to AverettApplicants must complete an online application, provide official transcripts showing a minimum 3.0 GPA in the last 60 credits of their bachelor's degree, and provide a copy of their driver's license or government-issued ID. Program at a Glance
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3. Purdue University |
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| Public university in West Lafayette, IN, accredited by HLC and AACSB | ||||
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Purdue University takes pride in its prestigious reputation and community-minded focus. Purdue's dedicated faculty and large alumni network support students in their educational and career goals. Krannert School of ManagementPurdue's online MBA programs use experiential learning to help students advance their management and leadership careers. The Krannert School of Management's curriculum focuses on strategic leadership, business strategies, and collaborative teamwork. Faculty at Purdue connect with students through diverse online educational opportunities, including research projects, case studies, and team-based learning. Purdue graduates also benefit from the work of the dedicated staff at the Krannert Professional Development Center, who help alumni pursue new professional prospects. Applying to PurdueApplicants must complete an online application and provide a statement of purpose, two letters of recommendation, online MBA essays, a professional resume, and official transcripts. Program at a Glance
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4. University of Mary |
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| Private, nonprofit university in Bismarck, ND, accredited by HLC and IACBE | ||||
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Located in Bismarck, North Dakota, the University of Mary offers Catholic, Benedictine education to students of all faiths and backgrounds. The value-focused experience at Mary offers students a variety of highly distinguished, accredited programs. The Gary Tharaldson School of BusinessThe Gary Tharaldson School of Business recognizes that employees play a pivotal role in every company and deserve expert management. Mary's online master's in human resources develops the quantitative and operational skills learners need to manage human resources departments in any organization. The online MBA programs at Mary are accredited and accelerated, allowing students to complete their studies in as few as 16 months. Mary alumni also enjoy considerable career success, with 96% of graduates working or pursuing additional education within six months of graduation. Applying to MaryApplicants must hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution, provide official transcripts demonstrating a 2.75 minimum cumulative GPA in undergraduate coursework, and complete an online application. Program at a Glance
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5. Central Michigan University |
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| Public university in Mount Pleasant, MI, accredited by HLC and AACSB | ||||
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Central Michigan University's online programs offer quality education for any lifestyle. CMU welcomes transfer students, offering scholarships specifically for learners from other schools. Central Michigan University College of Business AdministrationThe College of Business Administration at CMU prepares students for global leadership roles by developing their marketing, management, finance, and accounting skills. Degree-seekers can further strengthen their knowledge base and career prospects by selecting one of 11 available concentrations. The human resources management credential at CMU prepares graduates to effectively manage human capital and meet organizational goals. This emphasis includes courses such as employee selection and evaluation, human resource management, and organizational development. Applying to CMUApplicants must hold a bachelor's degree with official transcripts demonstrating a minimum 2.7 GPA. The online application at CMU also requires a resume and a personal statement. CMU recommends applicants have prior coursework in accounting, finance, economics, and statistics. Program at a Glance
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6. University of Nebraska-Lincoln |
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| Public university in Lincoln, NE, accredited by HLC and AACSB | ||||
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The University of Nebraska-Lincoln offers fully online and mobile-optimized classes designed for students with busy lives. The school's eight-week course schedule supports degree-seekers with family or career commitments. University of Nebraska-Lincoln College of BusinessGraduates who earn an MBA at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's College of Business enjoy an impressive ROI thanks to the program's lower educational costs and higher post-graduation salaries. In fact, UNL ranks third on the Financial Times's "value for the money" list. Additionally, all online UNL students are charged a flat rate tuition regardless of residency or enrollment status. UNL also seeks to support its students through a mentorship program designed to grow relationships among current students and university alumni. Mentors and mentees meet through this optional networking component once each month. Mentors impart business insights and career advice to their MBA student partners. Applying to UNLApplicants must hold a bachelor's degree with official transcripts demonstrating a 3.0 minimum GPA. UNL's MBA requires students to have completed a college-level statistics course. Applicants must also complete an online application and provide GMAT or GRE scores or apply for an exam waiver. Program at a Glance
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7. Maryville University of Saint Louis |
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| Private, nonprofit university in St. Louis, MO, accredited by HLC and ACBSP | ||||
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Maryville University offers a student-focused approach to education that includes waiving application fees and entrance exam requirements. Maryville's fully online degrees and willingness to accept transfer credits also makes them a leader in student support. John E. Simon School of BusinessThe online MBA at Maryville's John E. Simon School of Business prepares students for the senior professional in human resources certification exam. This certification gives graduates a competitive edge in the job market and demonstrates mastery of the strategic and policymaking aspects of HR management. Within the HR management concentration, students study advanced industry topics including employment law and compliance, workforce management, and compensation and benefits. Maryville partners with top companies like Boeing, Edward Jones, and Mercy Health to develop courses relevant to industry needs. Applying to MaryvilleProspective students can apply to Maryville for free without GRE or GMAT test scores. Applicants need only complete the online application, provide transcripts showing a four-year bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, and include a personal letter explaining qualifications for graduate work. Program at a Glance
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8. Liberty University |
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| Private, nonprofit university in Lynchburg, VA, accredited by SACSCOC and ACBSP | ||||
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The well-established distance education program at Liberty University has served virtual students since 1985. Liberty provides essential resources to online students, including an online library, a writing center, and membership to Tutor.com. Liberty University's School of BusinessThe online MBA at Liberty provides degree-seekers the training they need to grow as business leaders. Liberty encourages its students to select one of their 20 specializations to enhance their understanding of core business principles and increase their marketability. MBA students at Liberty benefit from the expertise of faculty as well as real-world business professionals. Throughout their studies, Liberty learners benefit from the mentorship of business professionals who are invested in the success of their students. Applying to LibertyApplicants must hold a regionally or nationally accredited bachelor's degree with a 3.0 minimum GPA. Prospective students must also complete the online admission application and prove they meet undergraduate business coursework requirements. Program at a Glance
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9. Spring Arbor University |
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| Private, nonprofit university in Spring Arbor, MI, accredited by HLC | ||||
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Spring Arbor University focuses on high-quality education with Christian values. SAU ranks highly in both affordability and quality — Intelligent magazine's rankings for 2020 included SAU on lists for most affordable online college and best online MBAs in human resources. Gainey School of BusinessThe accelerated online MBA at Gainey School of Business allows motivated degree-seekers to complete the 36-credit program in as few as 12 months. Part-time learners who take one course at a time can complete their studies in as few as 18 months. HR specialization courses cover topics like management of organizational behavior and professional development. Though SAU offers their master's in human resources fully online, students can also attend an in-person summit about international business in New York City. Applying to SAUApplicants must hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Applicants must also include an official undergraduate transcript, at least two recommendations from professional/academic individuals, and a resume in their online application. Program at a Glance
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10. Upper Iowa University |
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| Private, nonprofit university in Fayette, IA, accredited by HLC | ||||
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Upper Iowa University, a private school founded in 1857, offers coursework designed with all learners in mind, including online graduate students. The school's student-to-faculty ratio is 11-to-1, with a student body of around 5,000. Upper Iowa University School of BusinessThe MBA program at UIU welcomes recent college graduates and experienced professionals looking to advance their careers. All online programs at UIU allow degree-seekers to take control of their own study pace. UIU offers competitive tuition rates and a variety of endowed and institutional scholarships to support learners in achieving their educational goals. UIU also welcomes military and transfer students, offering grants and scholarships to meet these specific learners' needs. Applying to UIUApplicants must hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university with an overall 2.75 GPA or 3.0 GPA on the most recent 60 semester credits of undergraduate work. Prospective students must send official transcripts. GMAT and GRE scores are optional. Program at a Glance
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11. University of Scranton |
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| Private university in Scranton, PA, accredited by MSCHE and AACSB | ||||
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Originally founded in 1888 as Saint Thomas College by Scranton's first bishop, the Most Reverend William G. O'Hara, D.D., the school later achieved university status in 1938. As a Jesuit institution, University of Scranton aims to provide value-based education. Kania School of ManagementThe Kania School of Management at the University of Scranton prioritizes professional skills and experience in its curriculum. The online MBA program only accepts applicants with three years of professional or supervisory work and does not require any entrance exams like the GMAT or GRE. Scranton's online master's in human resources coursework requires 36 credits, though students without sufficient business background may be required to take up to 12 additional credits. HR classes at Scranton include recruitment and staffing, total rewards, and employee relations. Applying to ScrantonApplicants need a minimum 3.0 GPA from their bachelor's degree and at least three years of professional or supervisory work experience. Prospective students must complete an online application and submit a resume, a statement of intent, and three letters of recommendation, including at least one from a supervisor. Program at a Glance
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12. Union University |
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| Private, nonprofit university in Jackson, TN, accredited by SACSCOC and AACSB | ||||
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Union University is a private Christian liberal arts school offering high-quality education in Jackson, Tennessee. Union is the oldest postsecondary institution affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention. McAfee School of BusinessThe online MBA in human resources from Union's McAfee School of Business expands students' knowledge of business fundamentals while specializing them for careers in HR. At Union, prospective HR managers can study the strategic value of human resources within an organization with classes about employee training, strategic negotiation, and conflict resolution. While the online MBA program is geared for business professionals, it also welcomes students with no prior experience or degree. If an applicant does not hold a business degree, Union requires a prerequisite course in graduate business foundations. Applying to UnionApplicants must complete the online application and submit official transcripts from previous institutions, a resume, and official GMAT/GRE scores. Union waives standardized tests for applicants with five or more years of business experience. After reviewing applications, the school may request additional materials like recommendations or essays. Program at a Glance
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13. Concordia University Wisconsin |
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| Private, nonprofit university in Mequon, WI, accredited by HLC and IACBE | ||||
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Located in Mequon, Wisconsin, Concordia University-Wisconsin offers Lutheran-based higher education. CUW belongs to the Concordia University system, a nationwide network of postsecondary institutions affiliated with The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. Batterman School of BusinessThe online MBA program at CUW's Batterman School of Business caters to working professionals by offering flexible course options, waiving GMAT or GRE test score requirements, and accepting transfer credits. CUW also provides industry-related exam preparation for certificates in concentrated areas of study. CUW's concentrated HR management studies prepare students to face the challenges of managing organizational staff by offering hands-on experience with implementing employee compensation strategies and managing conflict with minimal costs. Coursework within the HR concentration also includes employee recruitment, fraud management, and labor law. Applying to CUWThe application to CUW requires an essay, a resume, two signed letters of recommendation, and official undergraduate transcripts. Program at a Glance
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14. DeSales University |
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| Private university in Center Valley, PA, accredited by MSCHE and ACBSP | ||||
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A Catholic, Salesian-based private university, DeSales prioritizes education with a student-focused approach. DeSales offers intimate learning settings with an average class size of 19 students and a student-to-faculty ratio of 13-to-1. DeSales University Division of BusinessThe online MBA in human resources at DeSales focuses on the functional skills that future HR managers need. This degree's coursework prepares students to assume higher-level leadership roles with responsibilities like recruiting, staffing, and managing compensation and benefits. The capstone course provides degree-seekers with experiential opportunities to use knowledge in a culminating activity. This flexible MBA program meets the needs of business professionals and novices alike. Applicants do not need an undergraduate business degree, as the school offers foundation classes for students who need a basic understanding of business principles. Applying to DeSalesApplicants must complete an online application and submit a current resume, three professional references or recommendation letters, a personal statement, and official transcripts from undergraduate institutions demonstrating a minimum 3.0 GPA. Program at a Glance
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15. University of North Texas |
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| Public university in Denton, TX, accredited by SACSCOC and AACSB | ||||
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The University of North Texas aims to empower its student body to think creatively and collaboratively. UNT strives to be global-minded and innovative in their academic endeavors. G. Brint Ryan College of BusinessThe G. Brint Ryan College of Business at UNT offers an accelerated online MBA in organizational behavior and HR management. Students at UNT examine the structures, processes, and behaviors of businesses. This concentration prepares degree-seekers to contribute to the competitive advantage of their future employers. The organizational behavior and HR management concentration includes several classes about industry-specific skills like compensation, selection and placement, and labor relations. Other seminars and experiential learning opportunities provide students with a specialized study of leadership and the process of organizational change. Applying to UNTApplicants must complete the online graduate application and include official undergraduate transcripts. Prospective students must also submit several materials via email, including a 600-700 word personal essay, a resume, three letters of recommendation, and GMAT or GRE scores. UNT waives test scores for qualifying students. Program at a Glance
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What to Expect From HR Master's Degree Programs
Every online master's degree in human resources operates differently, but students can expect to encounter certain similarities as they research degree timelines, curricula structure, and admission requirements. Degree-seekers may explore alternative options in the field, such as an MS or MA. The section below offers more information about these different paths.
Students can generally expect to complete an online MBA program in 1-2 years, though part-time programs may take longer. The typical MBA in human resources requires about 36 credits for graduation.
With an online MBA, students complete foundational business courses in marketing, accounting, leadership, and finance, plus HR-specific classes. Some programs offer real-time online courses, while others operate asynchronously. Students should also investigate whether their program requires any in-person residencies or immersion experiences.
Application requirements differ depending on the program's aim, with some schools seeking more experienced business students and others opening their doors to career changers. Applicants may encounter expectations that include GMAT or GRE scores; an undergraduate GPA in the range of 2.7-3.25; professional work experience; and prerequisite courses in economics, statistics, accounting, and finance.
Human Resources Degree Options
In addition to the MBA in human resources, degree-seekers may consider pursuing an MA or MS. Typically, these degrees offer a more specialized approach. While the MBA in human resources provides a breadth of business knowledge in addition to HR-related classes, MA and MS programs usually focus more fully on HR courses.
Though some curriculum may overlap, an MBA student can expect to graduate with a fundamental understanding of accounting, marketing, and other business practices that employers value. Students considering various career options or aiming for advancement to executive management may wish to consider the more flexible MBA.
Prospective students may encounter degree options such as:
- MS or MA in HR Management: These two degrees focus on talent acquisition, employment law, and training strategies, potentially with some wider management foundations in areas like finance and leadership. These degrees best serve those aiming for leadership in HR.
- MA in HR Development: HR development focuses on more general HR skills, with courses designed to develop students' aptitude for training and development, career management, and group development and change.
Popular Human Resources Management Courses
MBA curricula vary, but prospective students can expect many similarities as they explore coursework requirements at different schools. Some programs call for students to engage in a thesis, capstone, or internship module, while others center around in-class learning. The list below offers a few examples of common business core expectations, plus courses specific to the HR concentration.
- Financial Management: A staple of the business core for many programs, financial management courses address topics like financial analysis and strategy, risk management, budgeting, and decision-making. Students may engage in both theoretical and practical exercises.
- Marketing Management: Another foundational business course, marketing management prepares students to analyze, strategize, and implement common marketing principles. Subject areas may include customer behavior, institutional decision-making, legal considerations, and competition.
- Staffing and Evaluation: Specific to the HR concentration, this course covers strategies for employee selection and quantitative evaluation regarding job performance. Other topics may include training, safety, and personnel administration.
- Labor and Employee Relations: Designed for students specializing in HR, this course focuses on building skills like contract negotiation and conflict resolution. The course may cover topics such as collective bargaining, individual contracts, and arbitration techniques.
- Strategic Management: Often offered as an experiential course like a capstone or internship, strategic management classes require students to evaluate real-world business problems. Sometimes working in teams, students may partner with local businesses to propose and develop solutions.
Financing your Human Resources Degree
Because the pursuit of any higher education is a significant financial investment, prospective students should understand funding options. For master's students, there are a variety of opportunities, including teaching assistantships, scholarships, grants, and student loans. Degree-seekers should make sure they understand the financial commitment, and plan their payment strategy before starting a program.
Many online MBA programs tailor their curriculum to working professionals, allowing students to continue earning a salary while attending school. Additionally, employers may offer assistance to workers pursuing further business education like an MBA program.
What Jobs Can an MBA in HR Get You?
By completing an MBA in human resources, graduates enter the workforce prepared to tackle a variety of exciting jobs across many potential industries.
HR is a crucial component of business operations, making it possible for degree-holders to find jobs in an array of industries, companies, and locations. An MBA demonstrates solid business expertise that can catch a potential employer's eye during the application process.
MBA graduates can find ample management opportunities, with specialized positions in training and development, labor relations, and compensation and benefits. According to the BLS, compensation and benefits managers earned a median annual salary of $122,270 as of May 2019, with many other HR salaries averaging similar figures.
With an MBA in human resources, graduates may pursue general positions, concentrate on a particular area of HR, or eventually advance to upper management positions. Many employers seek top executives who hold an MBA, which makes the degree an excellent starting point. The following list offers details on a few possible positions for HR MBA graduates.
HR Manager: HR managers oversee staff-related issues for their organizations. They may participate in recruitment and hiring processes, employee training, and benefit administration. Often overseeing a team of HR specialists, they coordinate administrative functions and personnel policies. When conflicts arise in the workplace, HR managers mediate disputes and facilitate communication between workers and management.
- Required Education: Bachelor's or master's degree
- Job Outlook: +6% (2019-29)
- Median Annual Salary: $116,720
Training and Development Manager: Training and development managers work with company executives to strategize about educational goals for employees. They create training plans, handle budgets, and oversee teams of training and development specialists. Training and development managers also assess the effectiveness of ongoing training programs on a regular basis, proposing changes to ensure that information remains relevant.
- Required Education: Bachelor's or master's degree
- Job Outlook: +7% (2019-29)
- Median Annual Salary: $113,350
Top Executive: Top executives take responsibility for their organization's strategic direction, instituting plans to work toward company success. Depending on the size of the company, they may oversee budgets and financial reports, supervise management teams, and participate in hiring processes. Top executives hold titles like chief executive officer and general or operations manager.
- Required Education: Bachelor's or master's degree, often an MBA
- Job Outlook: +4% (2019-29)
- Median Annual Salary: $104,690
Selecting Your Human Resources MBA Program
Prospective students should consider several factors when deciding on an HR MBA program. Degree-seekers must search for a program that best aligns with their career goals and personal preferences. Among the many potential program attributes, accreditation, prestige, program structure, and university resources may all contribute to the decision-making process.
Accreditation marks a good MBA program. Schools may hold regional or national accreditation; regional accreditation generally has more rigorous standards. Business students may also look for programmatic accreditation from an organization like the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
Prospective human resources MBA students may also want to consider a school's reputation. Some employers look for degrees from more prestigious institutions, while others may not differentiate. Program length and structure also count as important factors for many students. Some may want to accelerate their studies to graduate as soon as possible, while others must balance professional and family lives with their studies.
University resources, too, can serve as important considerations for potential students, particularly those pursuing online degrees. Access to alumni networks, career services, library support, and extracurricular opportunities can help students to make important connections and excel in their studies.
Why Should You Get an Online MBA?
By pursuing an online MBA in human resources, students can take advantage of flexibility and potentially lower costs while earning a highly regarded degree.
Online programs grow more popular every year, with MBA programs particularly suited for distance learning. Faculty can easily deliver course materials through online lectures and students can interact through forums and video chats. Unlike jobs with strict certification requirements, HR positions do not require in-person experiences. Small-group activities, capstones, and internship requirements can all occur online or near the student's home base.
Those pursuing an MBA in HR may particularly benefit from a strong business overview. Because the HR concentration is a staple of many online MBA programs, prospective students can enjoy a wealth of choices when it comes to potential schools. Some schools even charge in-state or otherwise reduced tuition for distance learners.
When considering online programs, students should assess their own personal study habits and personal preferences. Online study requires strong self motivation and time management skills. Students may consider whether they prefer to take asynchronous classes, where they can access course materials at any time, or participate in real-time meetings. Some programs also include in-person residencies or immersion experiences.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is an HR master's worth it?
Yes. With a master's degree in HR, graduates can take advantage of a flexible and growing job market. According to the BLS, HR managers earned a 2019 median salary of $116,720.
What can I do after an MBA in human resources?
Professionals with HR MBAs can choose from a variety of career paths, including jobs as HR managers or compensation and benefits managers. With an MBA, HR graduates can also position themselves for advancement to top executive jobs.
Is an MBA in HR a good option?
By pursuing an MBA in HR, students gain important business foundations that stretch beyond their specialization. With a background in finance, marketing, and leadership, graduates can enjoy a flexible array of job opportunities while also furthering their HR expertise.
What does a HR manager do?
HR managers administer personnel-related functions for their companies. They may handle benefit plans, coordinate training activities, mediate disputes, and supervise teams of HR specialists. Some HR managers may focus on recruitment or labor relations.
Are HR managers in demand?
The BLS projects a 6% growth in demand nationwide for HR managers between 2019 and 2029. Growth in the field is tied to growth in individual organizations, since companies of all sizes and industries require HR support.