Human Resources departments will be necessary to keep businesses operating for as long as there are companies and businesses.
HR departments have a role in fostering worker growth through organizational development or training. A Human Resources (HR) professional is in charge of managing the workforce. They can carry out various tasks, such as recruiting, firing, settling disputes, and monitoring the welfare of the company’s personnel.
According to research conducted by Zippia, there are over 299,440 employees in the US who are working in various HR fields. The HR managers earn around $113,127. Considering the high salary packages and the number of HR-related positions, there is no wonder that students are interested in completing their degrees in the Human Resources (HR) arena.
HR experts and managers typically require a Bachelor’s degree, but a Master’s degree can help you grow exponentially. This article discusses 7 of the top Master’s in Human Resources programs and what makes them stand out.
Why Become a Human Resources Professional?
Salary packages, job security, and the impact of professionals make Human Resources an exciting career.
Employees in Human Resources have a distinctive viewpoint of their company or organization. As a result, they can frequently influence decisions for the benefit of the company and their fellow employees since they are aware of how decisions affect management and employees. This influence can make HR professionals feel involved.
HR Professionals that can manage staff hiring, onboarding, and retention will always be in demand, regardless of sector. In addition, the interpersonal obligations of an HR department cannot be replaced by technology, making it a long-lasting career option.
Working in HR will allow you to impact workers’ productivity and well-being, fostering a more favorable workplace culture. In addition, this benefit helps HR professionals think positively about their contribution to the lives of others, making HR an enticing career option.
What Are the Criteria of Top HR Master’s Degree Programs?
Here are some factors we have considered for selecting the best Master’s degree programs in Human Resources.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- Average Graduate Student Tuition
- Overall Graduation Rate
7 Best Master’s Degree Programs in Human Resources
After careful consideration and focus on the tuition fee, graduation rate, and student-to-faculty ratio, here are our top selected MS degree programs in Human Resources.
1. Purdue University – MS in Human Resource Management
The Krannert School of Management at Purdue University is our top pick for a Master’s degree in human resource management on campus. This in-depth HR program aims to create business-savvy, Human Resources-focused executives. Offerings for core courses include:
- Introducing World Leaders
- Human Resource Systems Human Capital Consulting
Students can transition what they learn in the classroom to the workplace with real-world projects and experiential learning opportunities.
Through the Human Capital Consulting Initiative, students can participate in extra options such as case competitions and consulting projects to obtain further experience and training. In just 18 months, full-time students can get their degrees.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
- Average Graduate Student Tuition: $9,208/year in-state and $28,010/year out-of-state
- Overall Graduation Rate: 83%
2. Texas A&M University – MS in Human Resource Management
A high-value Master’s in human resource management with an emphasis on leadership development and strategic thinking is offered by the Mays Business School at Texas A&M University.
Along with specific HRM courses, students gain knowledge of essential business disciplines, including accounting, marketing, and operations. Courses available include:
- Organizational Development and Change
- Enterprise Behavior
- organization of personnel
During the summer, each student completes a professional internship to hone their abilities and acquire experience. In addition, students in HRM can participate in leadership opportunities and network with other Human Resources specialists through their school’s SHRM chapter. In just 16 months, full-time students can get their degrees.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
- Average Graduate Student Tuition: $6,775/year in-state and $19,048/year out-of-state
- Overall Graduation Rate: 83%
3. New York University – MS in Human Resource Management and Development (HRMD)
A top-notch Master’s degree in human resource management and development is offered by the School of Professional Studies at New York University. There are four possible concentration zones, including:
- Human Resource Management
- International Talent Management
- Effectiveness of the Organization
- Executive coaching, development, and learning
8 core courses and one elective make up each specialization area. To get further professional experience, students might opt to conduct an internship.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 8:1
- Average Graduate Student Tuition: $34,704/year
- Overall Graduation Rate: 88%
4. The University of Texas at Arlington – Master of Science in Human Resource Management
For new professionals or those in the middle of their careers, the College of Business at the University of Texas at Arlington provides a high-quality Master’s in Human Resource Management.
The 36-credit program uses a curriculum grounded on research and practice and is thus easily transferable to the workplace. Courses that are needed include:
- Systems for Compensation and Rewards
- Educating and Developing
- Analytics and Metrics for Human Resources
There are alternatives for full- and part-time programs. Students who still need jobs in the sector can intern with any company. The fall, spring, and summer quarters all accept new students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 24:1
- Average Graduate Student Tuition: $8,739/year in-state and $21,571/year out-of-state
- Overall Graduation Rate: 52%
5. Florida International University – Master of Science in Human Resource Management
A low-cost Master’s in Human Resource Management is available from Florida International University, preparing students to lead people successfully in multinational corporations.
Students can continue working full-time jobs by enrolling in weekend classes. Both full-time and part-time students have one year and two years to complete their degrees, respectively.
Industry professionals created and instructed the program. As a result, they are aware of the qualifications necessary for success in Human Resources positions.
The program strongly emphasizes real-world applications through hands-on activities and case studies that interest students. As a result, Florida International University graduates are qualified for specialized careers in the following fields and senior Human Resources roles including compensation, benefits, and training for the workforce.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 25:1
- Average Graduate Student Tuition: $8,912/year in-state and $21,393/year out-of-state
- Overall Graduation Rate: 67%
6. Azusa Pacific University – Master of Arts in Management (MAM) Concentration in Human Resource Management
Azusa Pacific University’s Master of Business Management program offers a flexible curriculum that aids in the academic and professional development of HR executives.
The courses for the human resource management focus can be studied either on the Azusa campus or at one of its four regional campuses. Short, 8-week terms with 6 start periods make the course material comprehensive.
With possibilities for practical learning with notable businesses, students may enhance their resumes. In addition, micro-credentials are available in several fields, such as:
- Project Management
- Cross-Cultural Management
- Ethical Leadership
Micro certificates can strengthen a résumé and offer value to the degree. Students may feel confident they are receiving a relevant education when they apply for SHRM certification.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10:1
- Average Graduate Student Tuition: $16,571/year
- Overall Graduation Rate: 66%
7. Loyola University – Master of Science in Human Resources (MSHR)
Quinlan School of Business at Loyola University Chicago offers MSHR, giving students the analytical, collaborative, and communication abilities necessary for success.
The curriculum complies with Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) standards. As a result, the students are ready to take the SHRM certification examinations.
The extensive and adaptable program was created to equip students for various HR positions. Moral leadership and values-based are emphasized in courses. Twelve classes are required to obtain the degree for students with at least three years of HR experience.
To get practical experience and strengthen their skills, students without prior work experience are also required to do an internship. There are alternatives for full- and part-time programs.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
- Average Graduate Student Tuition: $18,594/year
- Overall Graduation Rate: 76%
Conclusion
Even though a Bachelor’s degree is sufficient to apply for an HR designation, an MS in HR can help you bring an edge to your resume. Businesses are more likely to hire individuals with higher qualifications.
A Master’s degree can help you revisit the basics of Human Resource principles and help you grasp advanced concepts.
We hope that our pick of the best Master’s degree programs in Human Resources can help you select a program that is best suited for your academic and professional needs!
Frequently Asked Questions
For many students, earning a Master’s degree in Human Resources is worthwhile. Over the next ten years, management employment is expected to expand at a rate of 5%, higher than the average for all occupations, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
An MBA will provide you with a highly diverse background in business. Therefore, all business-related courses, including those in accounting, marketing, finance, management, statistics, etc., will be required of you (at the majority of institutions). In addition, you can enroll in up to four or five HR courses.
The cost of tuition for a Master’s in Human Resources program in the United States will start at around 23,489 USD and can be up to 78,700 USD per year for private and public colleges.
The MS degree is the best option if you want to work in HR and be a generalist. However, the MBA can be the best option to learn more about HR and other management-related topics.
A Director of Human Resources (HR) earns around $67k – $137k, while a Human Resources (HR) Specialist earns around $41k – $80k yearly.
One of the most popular specialties of management programs is the MBA in HR (Human Resources). It is a demanding and energizing management program.
Most online Master’s in HR programs last between 30 and 48 credits. Most programs may be completed in 2 years by full-time students. Although some schools and institutions offer Master’s degrees that may be finished in as little as a year, others do not.