Online Master’s Degree Programs in Human Resources are becoming more and more popular. They offer flexibility, and students can often complete their degrees in less than two years. This article will discuss the top fifteen online master’s degree programs in human resources. We will also provide information on what to look for when choosing an online program.
Online Master’s Degree in Human Resources
An online Master’s degree program in Human Resources is a great way to earn your degree and advance your career. There are many accredited programs available, and you can find one that fits your schedule and needs.
The coursework for an online Master’s degree program in Human Resources covers various topics. They include employee relations, labor law, benefits and compensation, human resource management systems, and organizational development. You will learn how to manage and motivate employees. And how to design effective use and compensation plans.
Upon completing an online Master’s degree program in Human Resources, you can pursue a career in human resources management or a related field. You may also pursue further education by enrolling in a doctoral program. With an advanced degree in human resources, you can tackle various leadership positions within the field.
Why Pursue a Master’s Degree in Human Resources?
Human resource is a field that is constantly evolving. With the ever-changing landscape of the workforce, it’s becoming increasingly crucial for HR professionals to stay ahead of the curve. A master’s degree program in human resources gives you the knowledge and skills to succeed in this dynamic field.
Pursuing a master’s degree in human resources may be the right choice for several reasons. Here are just a few:
- You’ll gain an in-depth understanding of HR concepts and practices. A master’s degree program will give you a comprehensive overview of the field of human resources.
- You’ll learn about employee relations, benefits, compensation, talent management, etc.
- You’ll develop essential skills: In addition to gaining knowledge, you’ll also develop the skills necessary for success in human resources. These skills include things like communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking.
- Leadership roles: If you’re interested in advancing your career, a master’s degree program can prepare you for leadership roles within human resources.
- You’ll learn about organizational development and change management, which will enable you to lead effectively in an ever-changing landscape.
- Pursuing a master’s degree in human resources is a great way to gain the knowledge and skills to succeed in this dynamic field.
HR Master’s Degree Careers
Compensation and Benefits Manager
Average Annual Salary: $127,530
Projected Growth: 4%
Compensation and benefits managers plan, direct, and coordinate an organization’s compensation and benefits activities. They may also be responsible for developing and administering employee-benefit programs.
Training and Development Manager
Average Annual Salary: $120,130
Projected Growth: 11%
These professionals plan, direct, and coordinate an organization’s training and development activities. They may also be responsible for designing and implementing employee-training programs.
Human Resource Manager
Average Annual Salary: $126,230
Projected Growth: 9%
HR managers have to plan, direct, and coordinate the administrative functions of an organization. Their responsibilities include overseeing recruitment, interviewing candidates, and hiring new staff. They also do consultations with top executives on strategic planning. Additionally, they work as a link between an organization’s management and its employees.
Labor Relations Specialist
Average Annual Salary: $77,010
Projected Growth: -4%
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports the field of labor relations is expected to decrease to -4% from 2020 to 2030. A labor relations specialist is responsible for analyzing and resolving workplace disputes. They may also be involved in negotiating contracts between employers and workers.
Employee Recruitment & Placement Specialist
Average Annual Salary: $62,290
Projected Growth: 10%
An employee recruitment specialist is responsible for finding and screening job candidates. They may also conduct background checks, coordinate interviews, and extend job offers to qualified candidates. Most employee recruitment specialists need a bachelor’s degree.
What You Should Know Before Pursuing an Online HR Master’s
Choosing to pursue a Master’s Degree in Human Resources is a big decision. Check out a few points to consider before pursuing an online HR master’s degree:
- Pursuing an Online Master’s Degree in Human Resources can be beneficial if you want to advance your career or switch careers.
- It can help you gain the skills and knowledge necessary to become a successful human resource professional.
- Many different online programs are available, making it essential to research to find the right program for you.
- Online programs typically take two years to complete. But some accelerated programs allow you to complete it in as little as one year.
- It is vital to make sure a reputable organization accredits the online program.
Top 14 Best Online HR Master’s Degrees
1. Master of Science in HR Management – Tarleton State University
The MS in Human Resources Management degree is accessed online, and you can complete it in just 12 months. With this online HR Management degree, you’ll learn current industry practices in recruitment. You’ll also learn about compensation and benefits, training and development, risk management, and labor relations. Students learn how to improve employee productivity and performance. Courses encourage you to consider employee needs while developing strategic, marketing, and operational plans. Professors give up-to-date training on corporate legislation and regulations.
Accreditation, Licensing, and Requirements
Tarleton State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The course is available 100 percent online, and the learning is institution-paced.
The minimum education you need to pursue this master’s degree is a bachelor’s degree and a 2.5 GPA. You also need an official college transcript(s) and essay/writing sample.
2. Master of Science in Human Resources – Western Carolina University
The Master of Science in HR online is ideal for most busy professionals seeking to advance in the human resources industry. Or professionals who wish to transition into a career as a human resource professional. The courses use teaching methods that are innovative and emphasize using evidence-based practices. They also approach human resources from a global perspective, helping students gain knowledge and passion for the potential of people in organizations.
Accreditation, Licensing, and Requirements
Western Carolina University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and the Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
You need a bachelor’s degree to pursue this master’s program and a 3.0 or above GPA. You’ll also undergo GRE admission tests and provide an official college transcript(s).
3. Master of Science in Human Resource Training & Development – Amberton University
Amberton University, a public institution in Michigan, offers a Master of Science in Human Resources Training and Development program. This online HR degree enables you to assess learning needs and create organizational training programs. This master’s degree will give you real-world expertise that you can use right away in your field.
Students will study how to create evaluation systems that evaluate the effectiveness of training and onboarding programs. The curriculum incorporates theoretical and real-world information, including classes on ethics, decision making, human resource training, and more—graduates of this program advance into positions such as change agents in corporate HR departments and companies.
Accreditation, Licensing, and Requirements
The university is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
The learning is institution-paced, and it’s 100% online. You only need a bachelor’s degree in Human Resources or a related field to pursue this master’s program. Additionally, you must provide an official college transcript(s) and have employment experience.
4. Master of Human Resources – Utah State University
Utah State University’s online Master of Human Resources degree program will help develop your HR management skills. The curriculum covers HR analytics, employee relations, and benefits administration. You’ll discover how to use data to make informed decisions about hiring and retaining employees. This master’s degree in human resources is offered 100% online and takes as little as 18 months to complete. Coursework is delivered in asynchronous format for you to study on your schedule.
Accreditation, Licensing, and Requirements
The Northwest Commission accredits Utah State University on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). The course is available 100 percent online, with no campus visits required.
You need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution to pursue this master’s program. You’ll also need to provide an official college transcript(s), a resume, and a statement of purpose. There is no GRE requirement for admission to this program.
5. Master of Science in Training & Human Resource Development – University of Wisconsin-Stout
This online MS in Training & Human Resource Development is a degree from the University of Wisconsin-Stout. This program offers a distinct approach to meeting industry demands as the demand for managers and specialists grows in this field. Students take the lead in their learning. They’ll learn to enhance human performance in an organizational setting, facilitate organizational change, and manage company knowledge.
Accreditation, Licensing, and Requirements
The master’s program is 100 percent online. The University of Wisconsin-Stout is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). The minimum education you need to access this master’s program is a bachelor’s degree.
The recommended GPA is 3.0 and above. You also need to provide an official college transcript(s) and resume/CV. What’s more, you need to have a background in training systems and organizational leadership.
6. Master of Science in Human Resource Development – Indiana State University
The MS in Human Resource Development (MSHRD) is a flexible program. It allows students to finish their education while still working full-time, advancing their higher education, industry, or government careers. Students may even specialize in their degree based on their present sector of employment, other job experience, or hobbies.
Graduates can analyze, design, and implement successful human resource development programs. They will know how to improve functional capabilities in international and multicultural situations. And provide expertise in creating the foundations for and evaluating numerous components of HRD training programs. They will also lead and guide organizations in applying human resource development theory—also, practice organizational leadership, culture, and growth.
Accreditation, Licensing, and Requirements
Indiana State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and offers this program 100% online. The minimum education requirement to pursue this master’s degree is a bachelor’s degree. You also need a GPA of 3.0 or above and undergo admission tests.
One of the main admissions tests you’ll undergo is proof of English language proficiency if you’re an international student. Other requirements include a resume/CV and an official college transcript(s).
7. Master of Science in Human Resource Development – The University of Texas at Tyler
An online Human Resources Development program can help you understand employee performance, training, development, and other essential elements of an HR manager. You may use it to develop your professional abilities, regardless of industry. You’ll get a chance to learn through coursework and related professional applications in any public, private or nonprofit business sector. Enhance your training and development skills, including design, creation, implementation, and evaluation.
Some of the major topics you’ll cover in this master’s program include:
- Career development and leadership
- Ethics
- Adult learning theory and organizational development
Accreditation, Licensing, and Requirements
UTTyler, accredited by AACSB International (AACSB), is certified by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
The minimum education needed to pursue this program is a bachelor’s degree and a GMAT admission test. Also, you will need to provide an official college transcript(s).
8. Master of Arts in Human Resource Development – Midwestern State University
This online Master of Arts in Human Resource Development program equips students to work in business, industry, or government. Also, in employee assistance, training, or employee development programs. Meditation and conflict resolution, human relations, career development counseling, and employee assistance concerns are all on the list of courses. Graduates will have the skills, knowledge, and confidence to share information, influence opinions, and enhance abilities.
Accreditation, Licensing, and Requirements
The program is 100% online. The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
You need a bachelor’s degree in Human Resources or a related field to pursue this master’s degree. The recommended GPA is 3.0 and above, and you’ll also undergo admission tests. The admission tests include the GRE, GMAT, and proof of English language proficiency for international students. You also need a portfolio and an official college transcript(s). Ask about waiving GMAT/GRE for qualifying applicants.
9. Master of Science in Human Resource Development – Pittsburg State University
The University of Pittsburg State offers an online Master of Science in Human Resource Development. This program teaches training in employee development, performance improvement, and organizational development. The HR master’s focuses on competency-based, application-oriented learning. Graduates have the tools, models, and approaches required to enhance organizational performance through people and processes.
Accreditation, Licensing, and Requirements
Pittsburg State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). The minimum education needed to pursue this master’s degree program is a bachelor’s degree and a GPA of 2.7 or above.
Other application requirements are an official college transcript(s), and you may also need to provide additional materials.
10. Master of Science in HR Management – Troy University
The online MS in Human Resource Management from Troy University is an excellent option for people who wish to learn more about human resources. Students gain competence with topics and methods for implementing their activities at work.
HR is a broad field that includes personnel management, employment, and labor law. HR professionals encompass a wide range of job titles and industries. This program will develop your knowledge of Human Resources. It uses helpful case studies that you can utilize to get hired right away or build your career as an HR practitioner. The curriculum is appropriate for individuals working in business, government, military, or nonprofit organizations.
Accreditation, Licensing, and Requirements
Troy University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). It’s also certified by the Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
Applicants need to have a bachelor’s degree in human resources or a related field to join this master’s program, a minimum GPA of 2.0 or above, recommended/reference letter(s), and an official college transcript(s).
11. MS in Human Resource Management – Stony Brook University
This master of science in human resource management by Stony Brook University is unique. The program prepares professionals for the field or advances their existing careers. Managing human resources is an integral part of running a successful organization. HR professionals need to combine and apply human resource knowledge and skills to align them with organizational objectives.
Accreditation, Licensing, and Requirements
Stony Brook University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
The minimum education you need to get accepted for this program is a bachelor’s degree and a GPA of 3.0 and above. Other application requirements include a resume/CV, recommendation/reference letter(s), and an official college transcript(s). You also need to provide a statement of purpose/intent and go through an interview.
12. Master of Arts in Human Resource Management – Concordia University-Saint Paul
Explore the online Master of Arts in Human Resource Management by Concordia University-Saint Paul. This degree focuses on teaching Human Resource management, financial and strategic thinking abilities, and innovation within the HR Manager’s area of responsibility. Graduates will learn how to optimize the return on investment for their company’s human capital.
Students learn about all elements of Human Resources, including ethics and legal concerns, recruitment, compensation, benefits, and organizational development. This online HR Management education fully complies with the Society for Human Resource Management’s (SHRM’s) HR Curriculum Guidebook and Templates.
Accreditation, Licensing, and Requirements
Concordia University-Saint Paul is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
You need a bachelor’s degree to access this master’s program and a 3.0 or above GPA. You’ll also need to go through admission tests, provide a statement of purpose/intent and an official college transcript(s).
13. Master of Science in Leadership & Human Resource Development – Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College
This Master of Science in Human Resource Education helps students become professionals by allowing them to facilitate and lead positive change through effective leadership. Students study how to collaborate to identify and analyze performance issues under the direction of diverse instructors with a wealth of applied expertise. Students learn how to create and put into action plans and therapies to address these concerns in courses. Graduates are ideal for leading roles in various sectors, including business, healthcare, manufacturing, and community and economic development.
Take your career to the next rank in as little as 12 months without giving up your job or personal life. The program is accessible online, allowing students to learn whenever convenient.
Accreditation, Licensing, and Requirements
The university is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The minimum education needed to pursue this program is a bachelor’s degree and a GPA of 3.0 or above. You’ll also go through GRA admission tests. You’ll need to provide a resume/CV, recommendation/reference letter(s), and an official college transcript(s).
14. Master of Science in Human Resource Management – Colorado State University-Global Campus
The Human Resources Management degree at CSU-Global is an online program. This course of study aims to equip you for a wide range of leadership responsibilities in human resources. Students get a comprehensive understanding of human resources concepts, programs, and practices.
This master’s program teaches you to:
- Train employees and resolve conflicts
- Employ performance appraisals
- Create guidelines for conduct as well as behavior expectations
- Study ethics, law, and corporate responsibilities
Accreditation, Licensing, and Requirements
Colorado State University-Global Campus is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). It’s also certified by the Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
You need a bachelor’s degree and a GPA of 3.0 or above to apply for this master’s program. You may also need to provide an official college transcript(s).
Choose the Best Online HR Master’s Degree: The Steps
Step 1. Check the Credibility and Accreditation of the Learning Institution
The first step you need to do is check the credibility and accreditation of the learning institution. Doing this ensures that you get a quality education. There are many accrediting bodies for online degrees. Therefore, you will need to research which one is best for you.
Once you find a few accredited programs, you can start looking at the curriculum to see if it meets your needs. You should also look at the faculty to see if they are qualified to teach the courses. If you are not comfortable with how the university runs the program, you may want to consider another option.
Step 2. Affordability
Another essential factor to consider is affordability. Consider fees along with tuition associated with the program. There are many financial aid options available. Look into this before deciding.
Step 3. Flexibility
Another vital factor to consider is the flexibility of the program. You will need to make sure that you can complete the program independently. Many programs offer flexible scheduling, which means you will need to find one that meets your needs.
Step 4. Review Credits and the Curriculum
You should review the credits and the curriculum to ensure that they meet your needs. If you need to transfer credits, you will need to ensure that you can transfer them from the program to another school. You should also consider the length of time it will take to complete the program. If you want to get a degree quickly, you may want to consider an accelerated program.
Find Your Online HR Master’s Degree Today!
There are many online HR Master’s Degree programs. They offer quality education and provide students with the skills necessary to pursue a career in human resources. It is essential to do your research and choose the program that best suits your needs with many options available.
While there are many great programs, the fifteen we’ve listed in this article are some of the best. However, keep in mind that each program has unique features and benefits that make it stand out from the rest. Check out some of the GetEducated HR master's degree Best Buys to learn more about these programs!