What is a Master’s Degree in Human Resources? A Complete Overview

A Master’s degree in Human Resources (HR) is a graduate-level program focused on advanced concepts in managing people, policies, and organizations This degree provides students with the knowledge and skills needed for leadership roles in HR and talent management

With an MS in HR graduates can pursue careers as HR managers directors, consultants, and other strategic positions. The degree helps professionals gain expertise in key areas like compensation, recruitment, training, labor relations, and more.

Overview of MS in HR Programs

MS in Human Resources degrees typically consist of 30-45 credits and take 1-2 years of full-time study to complete. Programs are available at the master’s level through business schools, public administration departments, and more.

Coursework covers topics like:

• Organizational behavior
• Training and development
• Compensation and benefits
• Employment law
• HR analytics
• Diversity and inclusion

Many programs also require an internship or allow students to complete a thesis. This hands-on component allows learners to apply concepts and expand their professional network.

MS in HR courses blend theory and practice. Students not only learn about policies and laws but also how to manage HR functions strategically. Critical thinking, analytical, and leadership abilities are emphasized.

Career Paths and Outcomes

Professionals with an MS in Human Resources are well-prepared for the following roles:

• HR Managers – Lead the HR department and oversee areas like staffing, compensation, training, labor relations. Median salary of $130,000.
• Compensation and Benefits Managers – Oversee compensation and benefits policies. Median salary of $131,280.
• Training and Development Managers – Create programs to improve employee skills. Median salary of $120,000.
• HR Specialists – Assist with HR processes under manager guidance. Median salary of $64,240.

Some other positions include HR analyst, recruiter, diversity officer, consultant, and corporate trainer. An MS provides the expertise needed for management and leadership opportunities in these areas.

The degree also helps HR professionals move into new industries or specialties. For example, someone could use their MS to transition into corporate training or labor relations.

Why Earn an MS in Human Resources?

There are many advantages to pursuing a master’s in HR:

• Higher salaries – MS graduates earn more on average and qualify for managerial roles.
• Deeper knowledge – Programs provide more advanced skills than a bachelor’s degree.
• Versatility – Graduates can work in many industries and specialties like consulting, tech HR, healthcare HR, etc.
• Leadership development – Curriculums emphasize critical thinking, analytics, management capabilities.
• Networking opportunities – Connect with faculty, peers, and through internships.
• Stand out – An MS helps differentiate from bachelor’s degree holders.
• Specialized expertise – Focus your studies on a specific aspect like training or compensation.

Overall, an MS in Human Resources degree helps position graduates as strategic leaders in HR. It opens doors to lucrative management and executive-track careers.

Admissions Requirements

Admissions requirements for MS in HR programs include

• Bachelor’s degree
• 2-3 letters of recommendation
• Resume
• Statement of purpose
• Minimum GPA (often 3.0)
• GRE or GMAT scores (can be waived)

Relevant work experience in HR is preferred but not always required. Programs seek candidates with strong communication, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.

International students need to provide English test scores such as the TOEFL.

Curriculum and Common Courses

MS in Human Resources curriculums cover a range of HR topics and management principles. While courses vary, common ones include:

• Strategic HR Management – Explores aligning HR strategy with broader business goals.
• Talent Acquisition – Focuses on recruitment, hiring, onboarding.
• Training and Development – Covers building employee skills through training programs.
• Compensation and Benefits – Examines pay structures, incentives, healthcare, retirement plans.
• Employment Law – Reviews legal requirements related to hiring, wages, discrimination, safety, and more.
• Labor Relations – Looks at union-management relations and collective bargaining.
• HR Analytics – Using data to provide HR metrics and insights for decision making.
• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion – Strategies for improving DEI in organizations.

Electives allow customization based on interest areas. Programs culminate in a capstone course, internship, or thesis project.

Online vs On-Campus Programs

MS in Human Resource Management degrees are available in online and on-campus formats.

Online programs allow professionals to earn their degree part-time while continuing to work. This flexibility makes online programs a popular choice. Online students can access lectures, submit assignments, and interact with peers virtually.

On-campus programs enable in-person learning and access to campus resources. They may better suit those who prefer face-to-face instruction and immersive learning environments. Full-time students can complete an on-campus program more rapidly.

When choosing between online vs on-campus, weigh factors like your schedule, location, learning preferences, and career goals. Accredited programs deliver rigorous curriculums in either format.

Doubles Degrees and Alternatives

Some other related programs to consider include:

• MBA – General management degree with HR concentration. More focus on business fundamentals.
• MM – Master of Management with HR specialization. Emphasizes leadership.
• MPA – Public Administration degree for government/non-profit sector.

Dual degree options are also available:

• MS in HR + MBA – Complete both an MS and MBA. expands business acumen.
• MS in HR + JD – Combine HR masters with a law degree for policy expertise.

These combined and joint degrees provide added knowledge and versatility.

Finding the Right Program

When researching schools, look for:

• Solid faculty with HR experience
• Hands-on learning like projects, simulations
• Internship or fieldwork opportunities
• Customizable electives and specializations
• Respected accreditation (AACSB, HRCI)
• Positive outcomes for graduates

Compare location, cost, time to complete, program focus, application requirements, and other factors.

Is a Master’s in Human Resources Worth It?

Pursuing an MS in HR requires an investment of time and money. However, the degree provides excellent ROI for many professionals.

An MS in HR leads to higher salaries, more leadership opportunities, and expanded HR knowledge. This helps graduates progress in their careers.

For those new to the field, the master’s degree gives a strong foundation in HR practices while signaling management potential.

Overall, an MS in Human Resources degree enables graduates to maximize their impact as strategic leaders in HR. It’s an advantageous credential for this rapidly growing field.