Are you considering pursuing a master’s degree in human resources? Non-Profit Colleges Online has you covered. We feature not-for-profit schools that put students before profits and education before the bottom line. In this post, we’ll explore the top 15 online master’s degrees in human resources.
Why Get a Master’s Degree in Human Resources?
- A human resources master’s program dives deeper into the human resources field. Students in these programs will gain a better understanding of the issues facing today’s HR leaders. And they will develop skills that can lead to new opportunities in the workplace.
- Some people pursue a master’s in human resources because they want a career change. A graduate degree is a great way to break into the HR field and set yourself apart from other candidates.
- Some human resources professionals want to develop expertise in a specific area. Many online master’s in HR programs feature multiple concentrations. For example, you may wish to specialize in compensation and benefits, talent management, or some other area of interest. A master’s program can help you reach your professional goals.
- Another benefit of pursuing a human resources master’s degree is networking. Graduate programs allow students to build relationships with other human resources professionals in the field. This can help them stay up-to-date on industry trends and learn about new job opportunities.
- Finally, most individuals pursue a human resources master’s degree to advance to leadership roles within their organizations. Higher-level positions can lead to more responsibility and more money. How much more? We’ll discuss that next.
How Much Can I Make With a Master’s in Human Resources?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Human Resource Managers make an average of $126,230 per year. And the top ten percent earn over $208,000 annually. In comparison, those with a bachelor’s degree in human resource management earn an average of $67,000 a year.
Clearly, a master’s degree in human resources can provide a significant return on your investment.
Additionally, this lucrative field is expected to grow steadily by seven percent through 2031. And over 16,000 openings for HR managers are projected each year over the next decade. So the job outlook is excellent.
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Online Master’s in Human Resources Methodology
This list features the top online master’s in human resources degree programs. Our winners are all accredited non-profit colleges and universities. Each of these online colleges is worth looking into. They offer high-quality academics, expert instructors, and award-winning student services. However, this list ranks the best human resource programs according to affordability.
Tuition rates for this human resources online degree ranking come from NCES College Navigator. Please note the listed rates are based on the in-state tuition costs for graduate students. The figures shown are the costs per academic year. Prices may differ for online or out-of-state students.
Most of these online master’s programs are quite affordable. But remember, even schools with higher tuition rates may offer financial assistance. There are often grants, scholarships, or fellowships available. And federal financial aid, private loans, and payment plans are other options. These resources can help fund a large portion of your education. So reach high and aim for your goals!
Top 15 Online Master’s in Human Resources
| School | Tuition |
| Liberty University | $7,893 |
| Colorado State University Global | $9,000 |
| Clemson University | $10,858 |
| Stony Brook University (SUNY) | $11,310 |
| University of Scranton | $11,580 |
| Brenau University | $14,130 |
| National University | $15,912 |
| University of Connecticut | $18,174 |
| Rutgers University-New Brunswick | $18,696 |
| Southern New Hampshire University | $18,900 |
| Saint Francis University | $21,290 |
| Penn State World Campus | $24,164 |
| Cornell University | $29,500 |
| George Washington University | $33,930 |
| University of Southern California | $63,468 |
1. Liberty University
Lynchburg, Virginia
Master of Science in Human Resource Management
Program Format: 100% online
Liberty University offers an online MS in Human Resource Management. The degree has no residency requirements. It’s a 33-credit hour human resources program that can be completed in as little as a year. Students will study the most up-to-date issues in human resource management. They will also learn how to become change leaders within their organizations. Some of the online classes for this HR master’s include:
- Contemporary Issues in Human Resource Management
- Workforce Planning and Employment
- Compensation Management
- Employment Law and Ethics
Liberty also features an online Master of Business Administration in Human Resources. The MBA program prepares human resources professionals for the corporate business world. Students will enhance their knowledge of organizational behavior. They will also study contemporary issues in the HR field. This program equips candidates to become respected leaders at their companies.
The MBA in HR is a 45-credit-hour human resources program that takes approximately two years to complete. It is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Both programs feature courses delivered in eight-week formats. Enrollment is ongoing. New classes start each month, so you can begin right away. Students can transfer in up to 50% of the degree total.
Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree and a GPA of 3.0 or above to be admitted in good standing. Scholarships, grants, and financial aid opportunities are available. The school also offers payment plans.
Liberty University offers outstanding support services for online students. For example, students can access academic advising, tech support, and tutoring. Graduate students can strengthen their writing skills through the Online Writing Center. And they can get research support and more through the online library.
Master’s in Human Resources Tuition: $7,893
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
2. Colorado State University Global
Aurora, Colorado
Online Master’s Degree in Human Resource Management
Program Format: 100% online
CSU Global offers a fully online Master’s degree in HR Management. The program is designed to prepare candidates for a range of leadership roles in HR. The human resources online program features two impressive credentials. First, it is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools & Programs (ACBSP). Secondly, it is aligned with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).
The online human resource management program requires 36 credits. This includes 24 core course credits and 12 specialization course credits. There are multiple specializations to choose from. These allow students to customize the program to their professional goals. Areas of interest for this human resources program include:
- Organizational Leadership and Change Management
- Project Management
- Strategic Innovation and Change Management
- Finance
- Organizational Learning and Performance
- Applied Business Management
- Accounting
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
- Business Intelligence
- Criminal Justice Leadership
- Fraud and Financial Crimes
- Global Management
- Healthcare Administration
- International Management
- Online Learning Innovation and Design
- Population Health
CSU Global has one of our list’s most flexible online human resource programs. Students can go at their own pace and still participate in a rigorous degree program. Coursework can be accessed 24/7 from anywhere with an internet connection.
This non-profit college also offers one of the most affordable HR degrees on our list. Additionally, CSU features discounted tuition for corporate partners and military members. Financial aid may also be available to help you cover the cost of this human resources online degree.
Master’s in Human Resources Tuition: $9,000
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
3. Clemson University
Clemson, South Carolina
Online Master’s Degree in Human Resource Development
Program Format: 100% online
Clemson University features a fully online Master’s in Human Resource Development. This program teaches students about innovative approaches to HR challenges in the workplace. These include diversity, ethics, leadership, strategy, and more. At the same time, students will be engaged in high-quality applied research in the field.
The program is designed for working HR professionals who want to gain in-demand, valuable skills to become human resources managers. The knowledge can be applied in non-profit, business, education, and government settings. This program is ideal for those who want to earn an advanced HR degree. But it’s also for leaders who wish to improve their effectiveness and those who want to advance in the field. This 30-hour human resources online program has six core course requirements:
- Organization Development
- Research Concepts and Skills
- Foundations of HRD Leadership
- Human Resource Development Program Evaluation
- Concepts of Human Resource Development
- Instructional Systems Design
Beyond the core courses, students will need to choose from one of four concentrations:
- Comprehensive HRD Concentration
- Athletic Leadership Concentration
- Learning Leadership Concentration
- Organization Development, Innovation & Change Concentration
Courses are offered in eight-week terms, and students take one course at a time. Most students can earn their degree in five semesters by taking two classes each semester. The human resources program is highly flexible and utilizes Canvas for course delivery.
The online HR master’s program admits students for the Spring, Summer, and Fall terms. Applications are evaluated on a continual basis. To be considered, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree and a minimum GPA of 3.0. They must also submit their application, transcripts, resume, and recommendation forms. A personal statement and response to essay questions are also required.
Master’s in Human Resources Tuition: $10,858
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
4. Stony Brook University (SUNY)
Stony Brook, New York
Online Master’s of Science in Human Resource Management
Program Format: 100% online
Brook University is a public research university and part of the SUNY system. It is one of two flagship colleges of the State University of New York. The school features an online MS in Human Resource Management. The degree is offered through the School of Professional Development.
The program is SHRM-aligned and designed for busy working professionals who aspire to becoming human resources managers. The degree integrates practical skills and theory. Students will gain the skills they need to advance their careers in HR. However, it is also appropriate for those who are just entering the human resource management field. There are six required courses. After completing the main requirements, students will choose four electives. Part-time students can earn the degree in as little as 20 months. Some of the courses for this human resources degree include:
- Foundations of Human Resources
- Employee Relations and Labor Management
- Employment Law and Policy
- Diversity and Global Issues in the Workplace
- Business Acumen and Data Analytics for Effective HR Leadership
- Employee Learning and Professional/Career Development
- Organizational Development and Change Management
- Human Relations and Workforce Planning
- Job Evaluation, Compensation Systems, and Benefits
- Performance Management in Organizations
- Communication and Employee Relationship Management
- HR Leadership, Performance Management, and Organizational Effectiveness
Participants can also complete an optional one-credit internship beyond the degree requirements. This 45-hour practical experience occurs outside the student’s current work setting. You’ll need approval from the faculty director to enroll. At the conclusion, you’ll submit a work report to be approved by your faculty advisor.
Domestic students are admitted to the program three times a year. International students are admitted during the Fall semester only. Stony Brook also offers an Advanced Graduate Certificate in Human Resource Management.
Master’s in Human Resources Tuition: $11,310
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
5. University of Scranton
Scranton, Pennsylvania
Online Master’s Degree in Human Resources Management
Program Format: 100% online
The University of Scranton is a private Jesuit college in Scranton, Pennsylvania. This nonprofit school serves around 4700 students a year. And it boasts an impressive student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1. So candidates can be assured of receiving personalized attention.
The school features an online MS in Human Resources Management. This SHRM-aligned program integrates up-to-date industry research in the HR field. Students will master topics like compensation, collective bargaining, and strategic development skills. They will learn to be leaders within their organizations. The program is taught through the perspective of Jesuit tradition. So, there is a strong focus on ethics.
The MS in Human Resources Management is a 33-credit-hour program. It can be completed full or part-time. It is designed for participants to take one class at a time. Part-time students can complete the program in less than 22 months. However, students wishing to graduate sooner can speak with an advisor about doubling their course load. Some of the courses for this human resources degree include:
- Organizational Behavior and Leadership
- Human Resources Management
- Control and Budgeting Systems
- Strategic Planning
- Recruitment and Staffing
- Workplace Learning and Performance
- Organizational Change
- Total Rewards
- Employee and Labor Relations
- Ethics in Human Resources
No GRE or GMAT is required for admission. However, applicants will need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school and a GPA of at least 3.0. You’ll also need to submit a resume, personal statement, three letters of recommendation, and an official transcript. Some students may be eligible for financial aid.
The University of Scranton has been ranked by U.S. News & World Report as a Best Value School. It has also been recognized as one of the top Regional Universities in the North.
Master’s in Human Resources Tuition: $11,580
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
6. Brenau University
Gainesville, Georgia
Online MBA: Human Resource Management Specialization
Program Format: 100% online
Brenau University offers an online MBA with a specialization in HR Management. The program gives students real-world experience and specialized training. You’ll gain solid fundamental business skills while preparing to advance in the HR field. Plus, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, you’ll get plenty of personal attention to help you succeed. The MBA can be completed in as little as 18 months. You’ll take five semesters of business courses and four additional courses related to your concentration. Some of the courses for this human resources degree include:
- Marketing Strategy
- Business Law and Ethics
- Budgeting for Managers
- Financial Management
- Human Resource Management
- Talent Acquisition & Management
- HRM Total Rewards
- Human Resource Strategy
- Cross-Cultural Business Challenges
- International Organizational Behavior
- Global Moral Responsibility
Brenau has a solid commitment to its online students. You’ll learn from the same world-class faculty that teach on campus. And you’ll earn the same respected degree. The school has excellent resources for online learners. All participants have a student success coach and an academic advisor to help them stay on track. You’ll have access to tech support, research assistance, online tutoring, and more.
To be considered for the program, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school. Plus, you’ll need a 3.0 GPA or higher, college transcripts, and a resume. No entrance exam scores are required. Scholarships and financial aid programs may be available for online graduate students. To learn more, you can speak with one of the school’s financial aid advisors. They can help you determine your eligibility for specific funding sources.
Master’s in Human Resources Tuition: $14,130
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
7. National University
San Diego, California
Master of Arts in Human Resource Management
Program Format: 100% online
National University offers an SHRM-aligned MA in Human Resource Management. The program consists of 49.5 quarter units of graduate work. The degree features a four-week course format and can be completed in as little as one year. Students can also choose to pursue an Organizational Leadership specialization.
The program offers a multidisciplinary and innovative approach to HR management. Students benefit from experiential learning opportunities and case studies. And they learn best practices for building the skills to move into senior management positions. They will gain problem-solving skills and become change-oriented leaders within their organizations. They will also be prepared for domestic and international business and nonprofit roles. Some of the online courses for this human resources degree include:
- Theory and Practice of Human Resource Management
- Legal, Ethical, and Safety Issues
- Workforce Planning, Development, and Outsourcing
- Training and Development
- Compensation and Benefits
- Employee Relations
- Organizational Behavior
- Organizational Development
- Performance Management
- Developing Groups and Teams
- Conflict and Power Dynamics
Applications to the program are accepted year-round. New classes start each month, so you can begin when it’s convenient. Graduate students enjoy personalized mentorship with faculty. Plus, they have a wealth of other resources to help them succeed. These include tech support, career services, research support, and more.
National University offers a range of scholarships and grants. Online master’s degree students may be eligible for some of these funding opportunities. Additionally, the school’s top-notch financial aid department can help guide you in getting help to pay for your degree. NU is also a recognized Yellow Ribbon school. So, it features discounts for military personnel and their families.
Master’s in Human Resources Tuition: $15,912
Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
8. University of Connecticut
Storrs, Connecticut
Online Masters in Human Resource Management
Program Format: 100% online or hybrid
The University of Connecticut features a unique online Master’s in Human Resource Management. Students can complete the program remotely. Or, they can opt for a hybrid format and spend some of their time on campus. This is a 20-month graduate program that is cohort-based. Students move through the program together with the same group of peers. You’ll have the opportunity to interact with a diverse range of people from all over the country. And you’ll build your professional network beyond the classroom.
In the virtual classroom, students will engage in discussions of real-world HR issues. They will work on extensive team projects. The program builds on SHRM-related coursework. Some of the courses in this 33-credit master’s of human resources online program include:
- Human Resource Metrics and Talent Analytics
- Managing Risk in the Workplace
- Diversity and Inclusion
- Interpersonal Relations, Influence, and Ethical Leadership
- Business Acumen and Strategic Human Resource Management
- Human Capital and Workforce Capability Development
- Talent Management Through the Employee Lifecycle
- Human Capital and Teams
An exciting component of this program is an optional international travel course. This is an internship trip for elective credit. And it’s designed to enhance the overall academic experience. Students who participate will gain a new perspective on business practices in other cultures.
The degree is designed for professionals who want to advance in the field. But it is also suitable for those making a career change. Candidates with work or internship experience in human resources are preferred. However, experience is not required for consideration. International students are welcome to apply to the online program. All applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
Master’s in Human Resources Tuition: $18,174
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
9. Rutgers University-New Brunswick
New Brunswick, New Jersey
Professional Online Master’s in Human Resource Management (MHRM)
Program Format: 100% online
Rutgers University offers an online Master’s in Human Resource Management. This professional degree features 100% remote coursework and requires no campus visits. The MHRM program is designed for HR supervisors and managers with at least four years of experience. It is ideal for professionals who want to advance to senior HR leadership roles. It’s also perfect for those who want to become human resources managers.
Participants will gain in-depth human resource management knowledge. They will also learn to communicate with other HR executives both nationally and on a global scale. Graduates leave the program as HR subject matter experts. Some of the online courses in this program include:
- Managing the Global Workforce
- Managing Rewards Systems
- Managing Workforce Flow
- Workforce Analytics & HR Data-Base Decisions
- Developing Human Capital
- Employment Law
- Economics and Demographics of Labor Markets
- Organizational Leadership and Change Management
- Organizational Behavior
- Leadership in Work Organizations
Participants can enroll in this highly flexible program as full or part-time students. Full-time students can complete the program in as little as 18 months. Part-time students have no minimum course load per semester. Enrollment takes place in the Fall, Spring, and Summer terms.
The program is offered through the Rutgers School of Management and Labor Relations. The school has its own career center with career counseling and job search research. And online students have access to comprehensive support services and networking. Courses are designed and delivered by Rutgers’s esteemed faculty. And online students earn the same degree as residential students.
No GRE or GMAT is required for admission. However, you must have a undergraduate degree from an accredited institution. You should have a GPA of at least 3.0, but the admissions team does consider other factors. International students are encouraged to apply. Decisions are made on a rolling basis.
Master’s in Human Resources Tuition: $18,696
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
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10. Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, New Hampshire
Online Master’s Degree in Human Resource Management
Program Format: 100% online
Southern New Hampshire University features a highly flexible MS in Human Resources Management. This program is designed for HR professionals who want to move into leadership roles within their organizations. Students will gain creative problem-solving, management, and decision-making skills. The degree also prepares students for additional credentials. This includes certifications from organizations like HRCI and SHRM. These can help candidates stand out in the competitive job market.
This 36-credit program is entirely asynchronous, so there are no set class times. Students can log in and complete their assignments 24/7 from wherever they are. The degree focuses on core competencies identified by SHRM. Some of the courses include:
- Managing Through Communication
- Strategic Human Resources Management
- Total Rewards
- Law, Ethics, and Politics in HR
- Talent Development and Workforce Planning
- Leading Change
- Human Resource Information Systems
- Human Resources in Global Contexts
- Negotiation/Advocacy in the Workplace
- Managing Difficult Conversations at Work
Students can transfer in up to 12 graduate credits, and there are five start dates a year. You can apply anytime and get a decision within days. The online application is free. And SNHU will even retrieve your transcripts for you. No GMAT or GRE scores are required.
Online students enjoy a wide range of resources and services to help them succeed. For example, students can take advantage of academic coaching, free tutoring, and 24/7 tech support. Additionally, there are live workshops, virtual events, and online clubs. SNHU also offers career services like portfolio development, professional resume writing, and more.
If you’re looking for an MBA program instead, consider the online MBA in Human Resources. This 30-credit program can be completed in as little as one year. The MBA in HR focuses more on business acumen. So, students study topics like marketing, finance, operations, and leadership. This program provides the skills and knowledge for leading people and organizations.
Master’s in Human Resources Tuition: $18,900
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
11. Saint Francis University
Loretto, Pennsylvania
Online Master of Human Resource Management (MHRM)
Program Format: 100% online
Saint Francis University is a private, four-year college in Loretto, Pennsylvania. This small non-profit school serves around 2,800 students a year. It is one of the oldest Catholic schools in the country, and it places a strong emphasis on Franciscan values.
SFU features a fully online Master of Human Resources Management. The degree is offered through the IACBE-accredited Shields School of Business. And it is specifically designed for busy working HR professionals. The program is suitable for those just entering the field as well as professionals looking to advance their careers. Classes are taught by award-winning faculty who are HR practitioners. And the program emphasizes practical, real-world skills.
This is a 30-credit, 10-course program that is SHRM-aligned. It prepares students with the skills to meet the changing expectations of human resources. Through the coursework, students will gain in-depth knowledge of ethical decision-making. And they will develop competencies in functional areas of HR. They will also learn skills in strategic analysis, communication, and teamwork. The curriculum is based on the body of knowledge defined by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI). Some of the courses include:
- Labor Law
- Employment Law
- Staffing
- Benefits
- Human Resources Management
- Performance Management
- Strategic Human Resource Management
SFU also features an accelerated MHRM program. It’s designed for undergraduates to earn both their bachelor’s degree and their MHRM in as little as four years. To be considered for either program, students must meet the following admissions requirements:
- Complete the online application.
- Provide two letters of professional recommendation.
- Have a minimum undergraduate grade point average of 3.0. (Some students may be accepted on a provisional basis.)
- Provide official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate coursework.
Master’s in Human Resources Tuition: $21,290
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Interested In An Undergraduate Human Resources Program? Read The Best Bachelor’s In Hr Degrees Online
12. Penn State World Campus
University Park, Pennsylvania
Master of Professional Studies in Human Resources and Employment Relations
Program Format: 100% online with optional campus immersion
Pennsylvania State University features an online Master’s in Human Resources. This 33-credit program takes an average of two and a half years to complete. This time frame assumes you would take one course per semester. However, students are not locked into a specific schedule. Coursework is asynchronous, so you can complete the program faster or go at a more leisurely pace. You can even take time off since you have eight years to complete the degree.
The program balances practical knowledge with advanced theory. And you’ll have the opportunity to study human resources management from some of the most respected faculty in the country. You can expect the same rigorous educational experience as resident students. And you will earn the same degree. The coursework is designed to give you the skills and knowledge to move to upper-level human resource management roles. It is aligned with SHRM’s HR Curriculum Guidebook.
A unique aspect of this program is that students can customize it with one of eight concentrations. You’ll complete 27 credits of required coursework. Then, you’ll choose two elective courses that pair with your concentration. This option allows you to develop specialized expertise and tailor the degree to your professional career goals. Concentrations include:
- Benefits and Compensation
- Labor and Collective Bargaining
- Employment and Labor Law
- Staffing, Training, and Development
- Ethics and Leadership
- International Human Resources and Employment Relations
- Labor Unions: Organization and Strategy
- HR Analytics and Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Students also have the option to attend a five-day summer intensive session. During the immersion experience, you can enjoy the University Park campus, stay in the dorms, and earn credits. The session is not required but is ideal for students who want to meet with their peers and faculty in person.
No thesis is required to earn the degree. Instead, the program culminates in a capstone class. In this project, you’ll demonstrate what you’ve learned by applying it to your professional area of interest. Online HR students at Penn State may be considered for a limited number of scholarships. In addition, graduate students are eligible for private and federal student loans.
Master’s in Human Resources Tuition: $24,164
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
13. Cornell University
Ithaca, New York
Executive Master of Human Resource Management
Program Format: Online with required residencies
Cornell University features an Executive Master of Human Resource Management (EMHRM) program. Students who complete the program will earn a Master of Professional Studies (MPS) degree. This program is specifically designed for current HR professionals who want to move into leadership roles. Students learn about the latest research in the HR field from leading academic. They also get to interact with HR leaders from a range of industries.
This innovative program features coursework that is primarily online. It takes just 15 months to complete. And you can go at your own pace and study from anywhere in the world. However, there are three week long residency requirements. These occur on the Ithaca, New York campus in August, March, and July. During these sessions, you’ll meet your fellow students and other HR leaders. And you’ll have the opportunity to build your professional network. Tuition does not include accommodation for these in-person experiences.
During the program, you’ll apply what you’ve learned in real time at your own organization. This will make up part of your capstone case project. The coursework is aligned with the components of the project. Some of the courses for this master’s in human resources online include:
- Aligning HR Strategy with Organizational Strategy
- Strategic Human Resources Management
- Labor Relations Strategy
- Leading Strategic Change Initiatives
- Talent Management
- Using Design Thinking in Human Resources
- Human Resources Leadership
- Agile Project Management Approaches
- Total Rewards Compensation
- Organizational Behavior
- Employment Relations
- Negotiations
Coursework is created and presented by Cornell faculty and senior HR leaders. And there are plenty of opportunities for direct, personal interaction. Students participate in online chats and seminar-style discussions. This allows for collaboration with their peers and instructors. The application process is entirely online. No GRE or GMAT is required for admission. Students can apply for a private or federal Stafford loan to fund the program. International students are welcome to apply.
Master’s in Human Resources Tuition: $29,500
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
14. George Washington University
Washington, DC
Master of Human Resource Management (MHRM)
Program Format: 100% online
GWU offers a Master of Human Resource Management. This program can be completed online, on-campus, or as a hybrid degree. The program is designed for those who are starting a career in HR as well as seasoned HR professionals. Anyone with a professional interest in human capital and its role in organizations is eligible.
Students will focus on a blend of theories and hands-on practices. The program focuses on cutting-edge topics in the field. These include change leadership, diversity and inclusion, and more. The degree is offered through the GW School of Business. So, students learn from researchers and top HR professionals in the field. The curriculum is SHRM-aligned and includes courses like:
- Organizations and Human Capital
- Leading Teams
- Emerging Topics in Human Resource Management
- Strategic Human Resource Management
- Leadership and Executive Development
- Performance Management and Development
- Conflict Management and Negotiations
- Leading the Virtual Workforce
- Employment Law and Ethics
- Diversity and Globalization
- Human Capital and Talent Acquisition
Students can typically complete the program part-time in 30-48 months or full-time in 18-24 months. The degree requires 30 credit hours of coursework. And courses last either seven or 14 weeks. Students can go at their own pace but must complete the program requirements within five years.
Admissions is highly competitive, and enrollment is limited. There are two cohorts per academic academic year. The program seeks cultural diversity in its student body. Applicants will need a bachelor’s degree and a strong academic record. GRE or GMAT scores are not required. However, they can be submitted if candidates feel it will strengthen their application. George Washington University offers a wealth of resources to help students finance their degrees. These include scholarships, fellowships, loans, and more.
Master’s in Human Resources Tuition: $33,930
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
15. University of Southern California
Los Angeles, California
Master of Science in Human Resources Management
Program Format: 100% online
The University of Southern California offers a 100% online Master’s in Human Resources. This highly flexible program can be completed on a one or two-year track. The degree will prepare HR professionals for career advancement. The program emphasizes global human resources. It gives students the skills and knowledge needed to be influential leaders in the human resources field. Students will study human capital management concepts in detail. They will also explore up-and-coming topics in HR. These include corporate social responsibility, HR technology, global management, and more.
The master’s degree consists of 24 units of coursework. It is offered in the fall, spring, and summer semesters. The cutting-edge curriculum was designed by human resource industry leaders. And it is taught by an engaging faculty in a tech-savvy, student-centered environment. Students can access career coaching and other resources to help them meet their professional goals. Some of the courses include:
- Human Resource Strategy
- Organizational Culture and Employee Outcomes
- Leadership in Human Resources
- Talent Management
- Total Rewards
- Learning and Development
- Employee Relations
- Human Resources Analytics
- Management of Diverse and Global Human Resources
- Organization Design
- Change Management and Organization Development
To apply, you must have a undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited college. The application process is entirely online. You’ll need a resume, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and transcripts. No GRE is required, and international applicants are welcome.
Graduate students at USC have a variety of financing options available. These include private loans and federal financial aid. USC also participates in the Yellow Ribbon program. So military members and veterans are eligible for discounts.
Master’s in Human Resources Tuition: $63,468
Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
Who Should Pursue an Online Master’s Degree in Human Resources?
Do you have a bachelor’s degree and already work in HR? Then, you may want to consider a graduate human resources program. Graduate human resources programs will give you a better understanding of the challenges in the field. You’ll learn to recognize problems and develop effective solutions. You’ll be equipped to make better and more informed decisions in the workplace. And you’ll become a trusted and respected leader in your organization.
How Do I Pay For My Online Master’s Degree in Human Resources?
There are numerous financial aid options available to online graduate students. As long as you attend an accredited university, you can apply for Federal student aid. Filling out the FAFSA should be your first priority. This is where the bulk of financial assistance comes from. There are grants and federally subsidized student loans with low interest rates available.
Beyond that, private grants and scholarships are your next option. Contact the financial aid office of each school you are interested in. Most have financial aid advisors who can help you uncover the types of funding available to you.
If you work in human resources, you’re probably already familiar with your company’s benefits. But it’s worth mentioning that many employers offer tuition reimbursement. If your organization pays for your degree, there is a pretty good chance they see it as a worthwhile investment. So, be sure to exhaust all of your options before taking out a private loan.
Is Online Learning Right for You?
A master’s in human resources online is the most convenient and flexible way to earn your degree. Online degree programs allow students to maintain a work/life/school balance you can’t get with on-campus programs.
Self-Paced Programs
Most programs are asynchronous. That means you can work on your courses and assignments anytime from anywhere. And there are no set class times. You complete your degree at a pace that is right for you. You’ll study around your full-time job and other obligations with minimal disruption to your current schedule.
Choose Your Timeline
Additionally, online human resources programs can typically be completed full or part-time. Highly motivated students can finish their degrees in record time. As a result, pursuing your master’s in human resources online can save you money. But if you need more time, you can take things slower.
Advanced Technology
Today’s online colleges offer master’s in HR online programs that utilize cutting-edge technology. You’ll log into a sophisticated online learning management system. And you’ll have access to things like online research databases and virtual simulations. Your master’s in HR online will
Networking
It’s a common misconception that online students are cut off from the rest of the college community. But this is simply not true. At the top online colleges, you won’t be on your own. However, with a human resources degree online, students have many opportunities to interact with their fellow students and professors. In an online HR master’s degree program, you’ll participate in online discussions, group projects, and other activities. These will provide you with the networking opportunities you need to stay competitive in the HR field.
Closing Thoughts on Human Resources Master’s Degree Online Programs
The best master’s degree online program for you is a highly personal choice. Every college is different. And each online human resources master’s program has its own unique features.
When searching for the best online master’s in human resources degrees, do your research. You should look at factors like accreditation, faculty, and reputation. But you’ll also want to consider the courses that are offered. Be sure they align with your specific career goals. A master’s in human resources online can be your ticket to a rewarding and high-paying career in the field, so choose wisely.
NPCO staff, 2023
