This article profiles the top 25 most affordable online Master's of Human Resources Management degrees for students considering a career in this growing industry. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of human resources managers is expected to increase 9 percent between 2016 and 2026. Essential in nearly every industry, human resources professionals are responsible for business functions such as administering company benefits, understanding laws as they related to employment, interviewing and hiring new employees, and recruiting talent. Earning an online master's degree in human resources management provides students with the expertise and knowledge needed to fulfill this important role and help companies meet their goals by recruiting, hiring, and retaining, the right employees.
Methodology
Students researching prospective online Master's in Human Resources Management degrees may quickly find that there are hundreds of programs available. Since it can be overwhelming to keep track, we have done the hard work for you. The following list of the top 25 most affordable online Master's in Human Resources Management degrees was developed with information obtained by each school's website, U.S. News & World Report, and the National Center for Education Statistics. Using the NCES's College Navigator database, we conducted a search for the term Master's of Human Resources Management degree. After evaluating the list of more than 100 schools, we compared average graduate tuition rates and student-to-faculty ratios to narrow down this pool into the top 25 colleges and universities.
Average Cost of Attendance
Tuition plays a big part in choosing a college or university to attend for your Master's in Human Resources Management online degree, and it is likely the first thing a prospective student looks at when researching schools and programs. When looking at the cost of attendance, however, it is important to remember that the cost alone does not always speak to the quality of a program and should be thought of as only one part of the bigger picture. We included both the in-state and out-of-state tuition costs for your reference, but we only ranked each school based on in-state total program costs.
Points:
Under $20,000: 3 points
$20,001 to $30,000: 2 points
$30,001 or more: 1 point
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
When considering a college or university to attend for your online master's degree in human resources management, it is important to determine whether you would excel in a larger school or a smaller environment. While larger institutions offer more majors, more opportunities for extracurriculars and internships, and a more diverse student body, larger schools typically offer more individualized programs and more opportunities for one-on-one studies. Below, we awarded the most points to the smallest schools that reported the lowest student-to-faculty ratios of 10 students or fewer.
Points:
10:1 or lower: 3 points
11:1 to 15:1: 2 points
Higher than 15:1: 1 point
Ranking Top 25 Most Affordable Online Master's of Human Resources Management Degrees
25. Florida Institute of Technology
Melbourne, Florida
The online MS in Human Resources Management from the Florida Institute of Technology requires 33 credit hours of coursework.
Points: 4Program Website
Through the Virtual Education Center at the Florida Institute of Technology, graduate students may earn an online Master of Science in Human Resources Management. The program is comprised of 33 credit hours of study in areas such as business ethics, leadership theory and effective management, human resources management, business law, employee relations, organizational planning and development, financial accounting, and interpersonal relations and conflict resolution. Students also take six electives to further focus their degree. During the final year of study, students obtain practical, hands-on experience in the field by developing and recommending solutions to an organization's human resources management team.
Degree Options:
Human Resources Management, M.S.
In-State Tuition: $25,641
Out-of-State Tuition: $25,641
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
24. Thomas Edison State University
Trenton, New Jersey
The online MS in Human Resources Management from Thomas Edison State University requires 36 credit hours of coursework.
Points: 4Program Website
The ACBSP-accredited Master of Science in Human Resources Management at Thomas Edison State University is a 36-credit program that draws on extensive research about what makes effective human resources professionals. Aligned with the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM), classes are available entirely online, and students complete core courses in strategic recruitment and selections, lifestyle benefits and compensation, human resources management, law and ethics, and organizational research. Students take two electives as well as a culminating management capstone. The curriculum is grounded in current best practices and prepares graduate students to become successful strategic partners within their organizations.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Human Resources Management
In-State Tuition: $24,455
Out-of-State Tuition: $24,455
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
23. Champlain College
Burlington, Vermont
The online MS in Human Relations & Organization Development from Champlain College requires 30 credit hours of coursework.
Points: 4Program Website
The accredited, fully online Master of Science in Human Relations & Organization Development from Champlain College consists of relevant, focused coursework delivered in eight-week sessions. Throughout the program, students develop strategies to manage change and lead in their organizations by learning to identify the need for change and produce lasting, meaningful results. Students must complete 30 total credits to earn the degree, including courses in human resources and organizational development, coaching in the workplace, diversity and creating a culture of inclusion, and one graduate elective. Students round out the degree with a 12-credit certificate in employment law, leadership, or positive organization development. A capstone is also required for graduation.
Degree Options:
Online Master's Degree (MS) in Human Relations & Organization Development
In-State Tuition: $23,850
Out-of-State Tuition: $23,850
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
22. University of Louisville
Louisville, Kentucky
The online MS in Human Resources and Organization Development from the University of Louisville offers three degree concentrations.
Points: 4Program Website
The University of Louisville confers a Master of Science in Human Resources and Organization Development that can be completed partially or entirely online. Those who choose the online-only option are not required to participate in any on-campus classes. Students take 33 hours if they follow the portfolio/fieldwork option or 36 hours if they follow the thesis option. Three concentrations are available: human resource and organization development, career and technical education, and health professions education. All students complete core courses in organizational analysis, adult and organizational learning, evidence-based research, strategic human resources, and leadership.
Degree Options:
M.S. in Human Resources and Organization Development
In-State Tuition: $23,562
Out-of-State Tuition: $23,562
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
21. Brandman University
Irvine, California
The online MBA in Human Resources from Brandman University requires 36-48 credit hours of coursework.
Points: 4Program Website
The Master of Business Administration with an emphasis in human resources prepares graduates to effectively lead, direct, and plan administrative operations. Available entirely online or partially online, students take 36 to 48 credits, depending on the core requirements and any waivers they may be entitled to use. Areas of study include leadership and innovation, financial management, financial reporting and analysis, and marketing management, and students complete 12 credits in human resources courses covering topics such as conflict and negotiation, labor relations and collective bargaining, information systems, strategic business concepts, career development and management, talent management, and workforce planning.
Degree Options:
MBA in Human Resources
In-State Tuition: $23,400
Out-of-State Tuition: $23,400
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
20. Belhaven University
Jackson, Mississippi
The online MBA in Human Resources from Belhaven University requires 42 credit hours of coursework.
Points: 4Program Website
Belhaven University's online Master of Business Administration with a concentration in human resources focuses heavily on the application and study of human resource principles. Through the curriculum, students explore topics in compensation and benefits, employee relations, and current issues and innovations in the field. Classes are offered online in flexible, convenient eight-week terms, and team activities within each class enhance the development of problem-solving skills and the learning process. Students take a total of 42 hours of coursework in both business-focused and human resources-centered classes. The program is fully aligned with the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM).
Degree Options:
Master of Business Administration With Human Resources Concentration
In-State Tuition: $23,100
Out-of-State Tuition: $23,100
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
19. Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, New Hampshire
The online MS in Human Resource Management from Southern New Hampshire University requires 36 credit hours of coursework.
Points:Program Website
The online Master of Science in Human Resource Management at Southern New Hampshire University aligns with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and its critical competencies, including the changing workforce, recruitment and technology, legal and ethical issues, and employee and labor relations. Students complete 36 credits of coursework in these areas as well as in information systems, corporate communications, business research, and negotiation and advocacy. A human resource management capstone, the culminating experience, is designed to assess each student's ability to integrate and synthesize the skills and knowledge they have developed throughout the program.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Human Resource Management
In-State Tuition: $22,572
Out-of-State Tuition: $22,572
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
18. Indiana Wesleyan University
Marion, Indiana
The online MS in Human Resource Management from Indiana Wesleyan University requires 36 credit hours of coursework.
Points: 4Program Website
Students pursuing the Master of Science in Human Resource Management at Indiana Wesleyan University benefit from a biblical framework that guides interactions within the workplace. An ACBSP-accredited program, the master's degree consists of 36 credit hours of study, and courses are available entirely online. Students take classes sequentially, one at a time, until they graduate from the program. Areas of study include organizational renewal and development, labor-management relations, accounting and finance, decision-making and communication, law and ethics, and staffing, training, and performance management. The program culminates in a human resource management capstone in which students complete a project that demonstrates an integrated understanding of ethical and biblical standards as well as best practices in human resource management.
Degree Options:
MS in Human Resource Management
In-State Tuition: $20,664
Out-of-State Tuition: $20,664
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
17. University of Houston-Clear Lake
Houston, Texas
The online MA in Human Resource Management from the University of Houston-Clear Lake requires 36 credit hours of coursework.
Points: 4Program Website
The University of Houston-Clear Lake confers a Master of Arts in Human Resource Management that features in-person or fully online delivery options. The program focuses on five essential competency areas: personal mastery and influence, change management, strategic decision-making, general business management, and core human resource processes. Students complete a three-hour foundation course in business principles as well as an additional 36 credit hours of coursework, including required classes that provide exposure to the legal environment of personnel, human resource development, the quality of work life, and workforce planning. Graduates are prepared to achieve their professional goals with a combined focus on global markets and management.
Degree Options:
Master of Arts in Human Resource Management
In-State Tuition: $20,631
Out-of-State Tuition: $41,266
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
16. West Chester University
West Chester, Pennsylvania
The online MS in Human Resource Management from West Chester University requires 30 credit hours of coursework.
Points: 4Program Website
West Chester University of Pennsylvania confers a 30-credit online Master of Science in Human Resource Management that is aligned with the curriculum standards developed by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). An AACSB-accredited program, students prepare to advance within the field of human resources through training in all areas of human resource management. The curriculum focuses on developing core competencies in areas such as workforce planning, leadership and change management, human resource metrics, global human resources, ethics, employee and labor relations, and compensation and benefits. The program is available entirely online and offered in a seven-week format to meet the needs of busy working professionals.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Human Resource Management
In-State Tuition: $19,493
Out-of-State Tuition: $27,593
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
15. Colorado State University Global
Greenwood Village, Colorado
The online MS in Human Resource Management from Colorado State University Global is aligned with the Society for Human Resource Management.
Points: 4Program Website
The Master of Science in Human Resource Management at Colorado State University Global is aligned with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and consists of specific topics of study in maximizing human capital, human resource leadership in a global environment, and talent development. Students also take courses in labor relations, research and writing, and business management. A capstone in human resource management and an internship are critical components of the program. In addition, the school's partnership with the SHRM provides students with discounted SHRM memberships and exam study materials as well as a reimbursement of up to $300 on the SHRM certification exam. Graduates are prepared to manage performance to achieve results, make legal and ethical decisions, lead diverse and dynamic teams of employees, and strategically plan and execute human resource initiatives.
Degree Options:
M.S. in Human Resource Management
In-State Tuition: $18,000
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,000
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
14. Concordia University St. Paul
St. Paul, Minnesota
The online MA Human Resource Management from Concordia University St. Paul requires 36 credit hours of coursework.
Points: 4Program Website
The Master of Arts in Human Resource Management is offered on-campus and online and provides students with courses focused on developing strategic thinking, financial, and leadership skills and innovation as they relate to the duties of a human resources manager. Graduates also learn how to maximize the return-on-investment in their organization. Students take 36 credit hours of study, and the program fully aligns with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). Courses are offered every seven weeks, and required areas of study include research methods and design, compensation and benefits, leadership and ethics, organization development, and employee recruitment, selection, and retention.
Degree Options:
Master of Arts in Human Resource Management
In-State Tuition: $17,100
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,100
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
13. University of Maryland University College
Largo, Maryland
The online Master's in Human Resource Management from the University of Maryland University College requires courses in statistics, financial decision-making, and organizational theory and behavior.
Points: 4Program Website
The management master's degree with a human resource management specialization at the University of Maryland University College is designed to help students develop practical, management-level experience in the procedures, knowledge, research, and theory used by human resource specialists, generalists, and executives. Students take required core courses in statistics, financial decision-making, and organizational theory and behavior as well as specialization courses in managing teams, organizational development and change, recruitment and selection, employee and labor relations, and job analysis, assessment, and compensation. The program culminates in a strategic management capstone course, and graduates are prepared for careers in human resource management in the public or private sectors.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Management With a Specialization in Human Resource Management
In-State Tuition: $16,488
Out-of-State Tuition: $23,724
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
12. Fort Hays State University
Hays, Kansas
The online MBA in Human Resource Management from Fort Hays State University requirers 34 credit hours of coursework.
Points: 4Program Website
Fort Hays State University confers an online Master of Business Administration with a concentration in human resource management. The program consists of 34 credit hours that combine core MBA coursework in strategic management, corporate finance, managerial economics, marketing management, managerial accounting, business research and quantitative methods, and organizational behavior. Courses for the human resource management concentration include a required class in human resource management as well as two electives in areas such as compensation, recruitment selection and retention, and training development. Foundation courses may also be required if students do not have an undergraduate degree in business or a related field.
Degree Options:
MBA Human Resource Management Concentration
In-State Tuition: $13,600
Out-of-State Tuition: $13,600
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
11. Tarleton State University
Stephenville, Texas
The online MS in Human Resources Management from Tarleton State University can be completed in 12 months of study.
Points: 4Program Website
The 30-credit-hour Master of Science in Human Resources Management at Tarleton State University can be completed within 12 months of full-time study. Available entirely online, the program provides students with opportunities to develop skills in organizational effectiveness, employee and labor relations, international human resources, strategic human resources, law and regulations, business research methods, compensation and benefits, employee training and development, and candidate recruitment and selection. The program culminates in a comprehensive exam that covers the application of concepts and theories in business situations. Graduates are prepared for careers as human resources managers, training and development managers, administrative service managers, and management analysts.
Degree Options:
M.S. in Human Resources Management
In-State Tuition: $10,106
Out-of-State Tuition: $22,557
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
10. Western Carolina University
Cullowhee, North Carolina
The online MS in Human Resources from Western Carolina University can be completed in two years of study.
Points: 4Program Website
The Master of Science in Human Resources at Western Carolina University is a 36-hour program that can be completed within two years. Designed to meet the needs of busy working professionals looking to transition into human resources or advance in the field, the program's competency model consists of four key areas: operational human resource leadership, strategic human resource leadership, relational human resource leadership, and ethical and socially responsible human resource leadership. Students take seven required courses, including a capstone, and five electives. Areas of study include human resource consulting and development as well as research and evaluation methods, organization acumen, and principles and practice.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Human Resources (MSHR)
In-State Tuition: $8,877
Out-of-State Tuition: $27,242
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
9. Webster University
St. Louis, Missouri
The online MA in Human Resources Management from Webster University requires 36 credit hours of coursework. The online MA in Human Resources Management from Webster University requires 36 credit hours of coursework.
Points: 5Program Website
The Master of Arts in Human Resources Management at Webster University consists of 36 credit hours of study in compensation, staffing, employment law, training and development, and basic finance. Within this ACBSP-accredited program, students also delve into labor-management relations, organizational behavior, and integrated studies in the field. Graduates will be able to explain the important theories, analytic techniques, principles, concepts, facts, and terminology used in human resources management. Webster also confers a 48-credit-hour dual degree in which students may earn a Master of Business Administration and a Master of Arts in Human Resources Management at the same time.
Degree Options:
Human Resources Management (MA)
MBA/MA in Human Resources Management
In-State Tuition: $28,080
Out-of-State Tuition: $28,080
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9:1
8. Nazareth College
Rochester, New York
The online MS in Human Resource Management from Nazareth College can be completed in 20 months of study.
Points: 5Program Website
With one of the lowest student-to-faculty ratios on our list, the Master of Science in Human Resource Management at Nazareth College is the only program of its kind in Rochester and one of two programs in upstate New York whose curriculum is aligned with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). Offered on-campus, partially online, and entirely online, students may earn their degree in as few as 20 months of full-time study. Students take classes in human resources metrics and analytics, talent acquisition and retention, and the legal environment of human resources as well as an advanced seminar in human resource management. Graduates receive discounts for partners such as the National Human Resource Association (NHRA).
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Human Resource Management
In-State Tuition: $27,900
Out-of-State Tuition: $27,900
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9:1
7. Azusa Pacific University
Azusa, California
The online Master of Business Management from Azusa Pacific University requires 39 credit hours of coursework.
Points: 5Program Website
The School of Business and Management at Azusa Pacific University confers a Christ-centered, customizable Master of Business Management that prepares graduates to become experts in creating a culture of teamwork and positively steering organizational change. Students complete 39 units of study, and all students complete the same required core of business courses before pursuing a concentration in human resource management. Through the curriculum, students learn to integrate human resource practices and strategies and gain experience in designing solutions that add value to an organization's practices and agendas. Students acquire tools for managing strategic change while building a comprehensive framework for effective human resource strategic development. Full-time students can graduate in as few as 12 months.
Degree Options:
Master of Business Management
In-State Tuition: $25,272
Out-of-State Tuition: $25,272
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10:1
6. University of Saint Mary
Leavenworth, Kansas
The online MBA in Human Resources from the University of Saint Mary requires 36 credit hours of coursework.
Points: 5Program Website
The online Master of Business Administration with a concentration in human resources from the University of Saint Mary provides advanced business training as well as an in-depth look into the methods of building a productive work environment. Students complete 36 credit hours of coursework, including nine core courses and three courses in training and development, organizational change and development, and conflict management and negotiation. Business-focused classes cover topics such as managerial accounting and economics, marketing management, organizational management, managerial finance, global management, and operations management. The program not only equips students to handle day-to-day tasks but also trains them to negotiate changes and manage conflicts with a business mindset.
Degree Options:
MBA Human Resources Concentration
In-State Tuition: $22,680
Out-of-State Tuition: $22,680
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9:1
5. Saint Leo University
St. Leo, Florida
The online MBA in Human Resource Management from Saint Leo University can be completed in one year of study.
Points: 5Program Website
Saint Leo University confers an online Master of Business Administration with a concentration in human resource management. Students take up to two courses per eight-week term, and they can complete the required 36 credits in as few as 12 months. The curriculum is designed to yield not only an understanding of business but also to provide an opportunity for graduate students to study current concerns and issues within the field of human resources. Business-related courses cover strategic and global business management, marketing, financial and managerial accounting, organizational behavior, and professional development. Current topics in human resources such as legal issues, compensation, selection, placement, and training are studied in depth.
Degree Options:
Business Administration, Master – Human Resource Management
In-State Tuition: $19,980
Out-of-State Tuition: $19,980
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
4. Troy University
Troy, Alabama
The online MS in Human Resource Management from Troy University is fully aligned with the Society for Human Resource Management.
Points: 5Program Website
Through its Sorrell College of Business, Troy University confers a fully online Master of Science in Human Resource Management that is designed to provide students with competencies in human resource management practices and concepts. Students complete 30 semester hours of core courses in strategic human resource management, ethical leadership and management, organization development and change, workplace planning and staffing, and employee relation, health, and safety. Fully aligned with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), the AACSB-accredited business program also offers opportunities in diversity and inclusion management, compensation and benefits, employee and labor relations, talent development, and talent acquisition.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Human Resource Management
In-State Tuition: $17,784
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,784
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
3. Wilmington University
New Castle, Delaware
The online MBA from Wilmington University requires 12 courses.
Points: 5Program Website
Designed for working professionals and entrepreneurs, the Master of Business Administration at Wilmington University offers maximum flexibility as students can choose to take online courses, on-campus traditional classes, or any combination of the two. Students can choose from more than 10 specialized MBA concentrations, including one in human resource management. The specialization requires 12 three-credit courses, including five courses in the concentration and seven courses of the MBA common core. Areas of study include business strategy, global marketing management, financial management, economics, business analysis, managerial accounting, and organizational behavior and ethical leadership. Human resource-specific topics include compensation and benefits, training and development, business strategy, managerial accounting, financial management, global marketing management, and a seminar in human resource management.
Degree Options:
Master of Business Administration
In-State Tuition: $17,172
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,172
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
2. Briar Cliff University
Sioux City, Iowa
The online MA in Management from Briar Cliff University can be completed in 21 months of study.
Points: 5Program Website
Briar Cliff University offers an online Master of Arts in Management degree with a concentration in human resource management that is designed for professionals with a bachelor's degree. All classes are available entirely online, and the curriculum is aligned with guidelines set by the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM). The program is comprised of 33 credit hours of study that can be taken over 21 months, and graduate students can expect coursework in strategic management, financial management, and international/global management as well as diversity, employment law, leadership theory and ethics, compensation, conflict resolution and negotiation, and employee recruitment, retention, and evaluation. Students can choose from two capstone options: an extra course in a specific area of interest or a graduate thesis.
Degree Options:
MAM: Human Resource Management
In-State Tuition: $12,969
Out-of-State Tuition: $12,969
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
1. Marygrove College
Detroit, Michigan
The online MA in Human Resource Management from Marygrove College requires 30 credit hours of coursework.
Points: 6
Editor's note: After publication of this ranking, Marygrove announced they would be closing their doors at the end of the Fall 2019 semester.
With the lowest student-to-faculty ratio on our list, the Master of Arts in Human Resource Management at Marygrove College focuses on the practice of human resource management in not-for-profit organizations, government, and business. The curriculum is aligned by standards outlined by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and taught by faculty who have significant experience in the fields of human resources, organization behavior, and business and/or have earned advanced graduate degrees. Students complete 10 courses for a total of 30 credit hours, including four required core courses in business ethics, legal practices in employment, managerial finance, and a capstone project and seminar. The other six courses, or 18 credit hours, are chosen from electives in organizational development and human resource management.
Degree Options:
Master of Arts in Human Resource Management
In-State Tuition: $19,290
Out-of-State Tuition: $19,290
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 6:1
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Career Options for a Master's of Human Resources Management Degree?
Graduates who earn an online Master's of Human Resources Management degree typically find work as researchers, trainers, staffing managers, and employee relations and recruiting managers. In order to be successful in this field, candidates should be able to communicate effectively with different groups of people, have strong skills in leadership, and be able to follow systematic, organized approaches to complete challenging tasks. If you enjoy working with others and you enjoy seeing organizations and their employees succeed, prosper, and grow, then a Master's of Human Resources Management degree may be for you. The following are several of the top career options for graduates in this field:
Development and Training Managers: These professionals support workers through a variety of team-building exercises and training scenarios. They may host session and training workshops, or they may work one-on-one with newly hired employees to ensure they understand the procedures, software, equipment, and policies of the company.
Human Resources Managers: These professionals are responsible for overseeing an organization's procedures and policies, ensuring that the company is following federal, state, and local laws. They routinely handle employee-related issues such as sick leave benefits, vacation time, insurance programs, and maternity leave. Earning a master's degree prepares aspiring human resources managers to effectively handle the interpersonal, multifaceted, and sometimes high-pressure role.
Human Resources Specialists: These professionals work under the human resources manager, assisting with communication and day-to-day tasks, and they typically focus on one role such as recruiting, customer service, or compensation. Human resources specialists are the first people an employee will go to for assistance. A master's degree provides the education necessary for a more developed, diverse, and advanced skill set.
Benefits and Compensation Managers: These professionals help employees with questions and problems relating to retirement, benefits, and pay. Together with employees, they work one-on-one to ensure workers understand any available investment programs, retirement plans, and medical plans offered by the company. A master's degree opens up doors for competitive advantages and may be used in place of hands-on experience in the field.
How Much Can You Earn in This Field?
As we have seen, the field of human resources can include a number of career options, each with its own requirements and salary expectations. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of human resources managers is expected to grow 9 percent between 2016 and 2026, about as fast as the average for all occupations. In addition, human resources managers reported an average annual salary of $110,120 per year in May 2017, with the top 10 percent earning more than $197,720, and the lowest 10 percent earning less than $65,040. The median annual wages for this occupation in the top industries in which they worked were:
Management of enterprises and companies: $124,540
Technical, scientific, and professional services: $124,350
Manufacturing: $106,170
Government: $98,270
Social assistance and healthcare: $94,620
The BLS also includes data for other positions in human resources, including information for human resources specialists. This occupation reported earnings of $60,350 per year in May 2017, with the top 10 percent earning more than $103,570, and the lowest 10 percent earning less than $35,810. Top-paying industries for this occupation also include technical, scientific, and professional services as well as government, manufacturing, employment services, social assistance, and healthcare.
As you can see based on the two very different statistics above, salary earnings vary drastically among occupations — even among those in the same industry. Still, earning a master's degree in any concentration within the field of human resources management is likely to provide students with the ability to command a greater salary over their bachelor's-holding peers. In addition to acting as a substitute for hands-on job experience, a graduate degree may be necessary to pursue an upper- or mid-level management position. However, the increased earning potential and possibility of growth are substantially higher than those of entry-level roles.
What Concentrations and Classes Will You Take in a Graduate Human Resources Management Program?
Available electives, required courses, and degree concentrations, as well as the length of the program, will vary depending on the school you choose. However, there are a number of common concentrations and courses that you can expect to take while pursuing your online master's degree in human resources management.
Popular concentrations include:
Employment Law
Organizational Development
Training
Compensation and Benefits
Recruiting and Staffing
Project Management
Popular courses include:
Leading Organizational Change
Organizational Strategy
Employee Hiring and Retention
Ethics
Human Resources Management
As stated, the time you will spend earning your degree will depend on the concentration you choose and the classes you take. However, most graduate programs in this field are comprised of between 30 to 40 hours of study. Full-time students can generally expect to earn their degree within two years. Keep in mind that the school may have additional requirements that may extend the duration of the program such as the writing and defense of a master's thesis. On the other hand, some colleges or universities may require a final project or a capstone experience. In both cases, whether you complete a thesis or hands-on course, you can expect to spend several months completing this requirement.
Something else to keep in mind is whether the school offers an individually paced curriculum or organizes its students into a cohort. In a cohort, students progress through the program at the same pace, completing classes together at the same time. Conversely, self-paced courses allow students to complete courses on their own time, on their own schedule. Although students are still expected to meet regular deadlines, they are free to learn when it is convenient for them and interact directly with the faculty member when assistance or further instruction are needed.
Are There Any Professional Organizations for Master's Degree in Human Resources Management?
Students who have already graduated with a Master's in Human Resources Management degree or who are currently pursuing a program in this field might consider joining a professional organization in order to learn about different approaches and make connections within the industry. The following are three of the most prominent human resource organizations in the country:
Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM)
Academy of Human Resources Development (AHRD)
National Human Resources Association (NHRA)
Professional organizations like the mentioned above are known for offering services for career-ready graduates or working professionals, including maintaining active job boards, providing continuing education classes and online training, hosting networking events, and arranging for seminars and in-person lectures, to name a few. These resources can be invaluable as you move through your graduate degree program in human resources management and get ready to apply for positions in organizations and business.
Whether you are looking to advance your current position or you are seeking an entry-level job that involves helping employees to better understand a companies policies, procedures, and available opportunities, we hope that our list of the best online Master's in Human Resources Management degrees serves as a solid starting point as you begin to research the programs available to you.
AS Staff