Best Online Master's in Human Resources
Updated February 26, 2024
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Human resources is a great field for anyone who is passionate about shaping the culture of work, maximizing the potential of organizations, and helping people thrive.
HR professionals play a crucial role in attracting top talent, fostering employee engagement, and driving organizational success. On top of that, they love their work: A recent survey by the Society for Human Resources Management found that about 85% of HR folks are satisfied with their jobs.
Getting an online master's degree in HR can give you all the latest industry knowledge about important topics like talent acquisition, performance management, employee development, and employment law. You can leverage that expertise into high-level positions with more impact and a bigger paycheck.
Whether you're an HR professional looking to level up or are a working professional looking to transition into a satisfying new field, an online master's degree in HR can help you accomplish your goals. Keep reading to discover which programs will get you the best return on your investment.
Featured Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top Colleges With Online Human Resources Programs
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 Best Online Master’s in Human Resources
Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $2,636
Out-of-State | $2,636
Credits to Graduate: 36
Columbia's online MS in human capital management program offers full-time and part-time study options. Students get specialized support, including faculty mentorship and access to a global network of human capital management professionals that continues even after graduation.
The curriculum includes classes like transforming total rewards, people analytics and decision-making, finance for effective human capital management, and organizational strategy and learning. The program also requires a capstone seminar. Electives explore topics like strategic storytelling, negotiation, and conflict.
#2 Best Online Master’s in Human Resources
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $2,244
Out-of-State | $2,244
Credits to Graduate: 24
The USC online MS in human resource management degree offers one-year and two-year tracks. The total cost of tuition, materials, and fees for the degree is $55,824. You can learn to interpret human resource policies, make strategic HR decisions, and strengthen leadership skills.
The curriculum explores core human resource management principles like change management, talent acquisition, HR analytics, and organizational culture. Other topics include human resource strategy, leadership in human resources, total rewards, and learning and development. Applicants don't need to take the GRE.
#3 Best Online Master’s in Human Resources
Georgetown University
Washington, DC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,620
Out-of-State | $1,620
Credits to Graduate: 33
Georgetown's online master's in human resources management program from the School of Continuing Studies can help you develop the management and leadership skills you need to help businesses function effectively. You can enroll part time or full time, and complete the degree in two to five years.
The curriculum explores foundational HR principles, professional ethics, and HR best practices. Classes include human capital analytics, a human resource management capstone, and research methods. You can choose from six focus areas, including strategic human capital management; diversity, equity, and inclusion; or employment law and investigations.
#4 Best Online Master’s in Human Resources
Rutgers University-New Brunswick
New Brunswick, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,183
Out-of-State | $1,183
Credits to Graduate: 36
Rutgers University's online professional master's in human resource management degree from the School of Management and Labor Relations provides a flexible schedule for working adults. Designed for HR professionals with at least four years of experience, this program can help you pursue advanced roles in the field.
The degree requires eight core HR courses, three electives, and a capstone project. Full-time students can graduate in 18 months. Applicants don't need to take the GRE or GMAT and can choose from three start times each year.
#5 Best Online Master’s in Human Resources
Florida International University
Miami, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Cost per Degree:
In-State | $35,000
Out-of-State | $35,000
Credits to Graduate: 38
Florida International University's online MS in human resource management degree from the Alvah H. Chapman Jr. Graduate School of Business takes 12 months to complete. The program includes an optional in-person residency that lets students network with classmates, instructors, and the larger HR community. All costs of the residency except transportation to campus are covered by the program.
The curriculum requires classes like critical thinking in human resource management, human resource knowledge management, and international human resource management. You also must complete either an internship or professional development class.
#6 Best Online Master’s in Human Resources
Ottawa University-Surprise
Surprise, AZ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $649
Out-of-State | $649
Credits to Graduate: 36
Ottawa University-Surprise's online MA in human resources program aligns with standards set by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). The program can prepare you to take the exam to become a SHRM-Certified Professional or Senior Certified Professional. Graduates can qualify for HR leadership jobs in nearly any industry.
The curriculum includes classes like employment law, applied case studies in human resources, and training and development. To customize your degree, you can choose from two specializations: leadership development or population health/health care management.
#7 Best Online Master’s in Human Resources
Colorado State University-Global Campus
Aurora, CO - 4 years
- Online
Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $500
Out-of-State | $500
Credits to Graduate: 36
Colorado State University-Global Campus's online master's degree in human resource management offers flexible, asynchronous courses that make it easier to work full-time while in school. You can learn the skills you need to qualify for HR leadership jobs or to enter the field for the first time.
The program requires 24 core credits and 12 specialization credits. Classes explore change management, compensation, the legal and ethical issues in HR administration, and effective team management. The curriculum aligns with the Society for Human Resource Management standards.
#8 Best Online Master’s in Human Resources
Johnson & Wales University-Online
Providence, RI - 4 years
- Online
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $842
Out-of-State | $842
Credits to Graduate: 36-42
Johnson & Wales University-Online's human resource management MBA program focuses on developing career-relevant skills like leadership, communication, and strategic thinking. The two-year degree, offered through the College of Business and the College of Professional Studies, provides a foundation in general business knowledge and competencies along with specialized HR skills.
The curriculum includes classes like operations management, business policy and strategy, strategic compensation and benefits, and labor and employee relations. You can develop hands-on skills through experiential learning opportunities including a capstone course.
#9 Best Online Master’s in Human Resources
Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: AACSB
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,069
Out-of-State | $1,119
Credits to Graduate: 30
Purdue University-Main Campus's MS in human resources management degree from the Mitchell E. Daniels, Jr. School of Business can help you develop analytical and strategic skills to succeed as an HR leader. Designed for working professionals, the fully online, flexible program lets you decide the sequencing of courses and the pace you want to pursue your degree.
The curriculum includes core classes like HR strategy, total rewards, and managing behavior in organizations and electives like change management and leadership. It typically takes two to three years to graduate.
#10 Best Online Master’s in Human Resources
Stony Brook University
Stony Brook, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $471
Out-of-State | $565
Credits to Graduate: 30
Stony Brook University's MS in human resource management degree from the School of Professional Development can help you get ahead or enter the HR field for the first time. The curriculum aligns with standards set by the Society for Human Resource Management.
Designed for working professionals, the fully online program takes 20 months for part-time students to complete. You'll explore topics like data analytics for HR, employee relations, and employment law and policy. The curriculum provides a foundation in HR fundamentals and includes a required capstone course and an optional internship.
Choosing an Online Master's in Human Resources Program
Students interested in earning a master's in HR should consider several factors when researching prospective programs, including length, available concentrations, and cost. For example, public schools typically offer lower tuition rates than private schools, and in-state students at public schools generally pay the lowest tuition rates. However, many programs allow all online students to pay the same tuition rate regardless of residency.
Most online master's in human resources programs take four years of full-time study to complete, but some programs offer accelerated timelines that allow students to graduate faster. Additionally, students with transfer credits should ensure their chosen schools offer generous transfer credit policies, which may save money and expedite graduation.
Students should also consider their career goals before choosing a program. Many programs offer concentrations that prepare for specific careers after graduation. Common concentrations include project management, organizational leadership, and recruiting and staffing.
What Is a Master's in Human Resources?
With a bachelor's degree in human resources, professionals can work as human resource assistants or specialists. A master's degree prepares students for more advanced roles with more responsibilities and potentially higher pay, such as human resource manager, compensation and benefits manager, and top executive.
During a human resources master's program, learners expand upon the knowledge and skills they developed at the bachelor's level, studying advanced concepts like organizational strategy, employee hiring and retention, and employment law. Many master's in HR programs also offer concentrations that allow students to tailor the degree to their interests and career goals.
Curriculum for an Online Master's Degree in Human Resources
Online master's in human resources programs typically offer knowledge and skills in the following areas.
-
Employment Law
Human resource professionals need a strong understanding of employment law because they must adhere to laws, procedures, and regulations to ensure fair, ethical treatment of employees across their organizations. -
Human Behavior
Human resource professionals must understand human behavior to effectively work with a variety of employees. This understanding helps HR professionals manage conflicts and ensure employees are treated appropriately. -
Business Tools
HR professionals can take advantage of various business tools to help them better manage employees and the functions of their organization. These tools may include effective communication methods, organizational software, and training programs. -
Compensation and Benefits Management
Human resource professionals in managerial roles often oversee compensation and benefits packages for employees. To ensure fair treatment of employees while adhering to an organization's budget, they need a strong understanding of the best methods for choosing and administering these packages. -
Conflict Resolution
Human resource professionals often manage a variety of employee conflicts, including sexual harassment claims, employee complaints, and disputes among employees and supervisors. Therefore, these employees must understand best practices for resolving conflicts in diverse scenarios.
Human Resources Certifications and Licensure
SHRM-CP
Human resource professionals who deliver human resource services and are the main point of contact for stakeholders and staff can benefit from earning the SHRM-certified professional credential.
Candidates for this credential must meet education and experience requirements. Candidates who hold a master's degree in HR and currently work in HR automatically qualify to sit for the exam, which comprises 160 questions and takes four hours to complete. SHRM members receive a discount on exam fees.
Professional in Human Resources
PHR certification demonstrates expertise in the technical and operational aspects of human resource management, including employment laws and regulations and HR program implementation.
Candidates for certification must meet experience requirements, which vary by level of education. Candidates with a master's degree need one year of experience in an HR position to qualify to sit for the exam. The exam comprises 150 questions and takes three hours to complete. Candidates must pay an application fee and an exam fee.
Human Resources Careers
Earning a master's degree in human resources prepares graduates for advanced human resource roles such as human resource manager, top executive, and compensation and benefits manager. Below, we cover several common roles and potential salaries for graduates of master's in human resources programs.
Human Resource Managers
Median Salary (2022): $130,000
Human resource managers direct, coordinate, and plan the administrative functions of an organization. They oversee employee recruitment and hiring, mediate disputes, and determine disciplinary procedures. Human resource managers also oversee employee benefits programs. They often oversee a team of human resource professionals and work with other managers in the organization.
Human Resource Specialists
Median Salary (2022): $64,240
Human resource specialists work with employers to identify employment needs and help organizations recruit and interview potential employees. They may contact references, screen candidates and inform them about potential job duties, and conduct new employee orientation programs. They also maintain employment records and process paperwork.
Compensation and Benefits Managers
Median Salary (2022): $121,280
Compensation and benefits managers plan, develop, and maintain employee compensation and benefits packages. They often research competitive rates and packages, prepare program budgets, and keep business operations within budget. These managers also identify appropriate outside vendors and partners, including benefits vendors, investment managers, and insurance brokers. They may also oversee HR specialists and other staff.
Top Executives
Median Salary (2022): $100,090
Top executives devise policies and strategies to help organizations meet long-term goals. These professionals direct and manage the budgetary activities of their organizations, often analyzing financial statements, performance indicators, and sales reports to improve business operations. They may also conduct contract negotiations.
Human Resources Professional Organizations
Human resources students and professionals can benefit from joining professional organizations. These organizations often offer scholarships, career search assistance, and mentorship opportunities. Members may also benefit from professional development, continuing education, and networking events.
Common Questions About Online Master’s in Human Resources
How long does it take to complete an online master’s degree in HR?
It typically takes between 2-3 years to complete an online master's degree in HR. Students who want to earn a degree even faster should consider accelerated programs.
Is an online human resources degree worth it?
Yes; an online human resources degree can be very valuable. It will help you to compete for senior positions where you will have the most influence and impact. According to SHRM, the five highest-paying HR jobs have salaries ranging from $196,000-$308,000 per year.
Is human resources a stable career?
Yes. The BLS projects demand for human resources specialists to grow by 6% between 2022 and 2032. Every company and every industry needs qualified HR experts.
What is the hardest part of being in HR?
Many human resources professionals report that helping employees navigate personal tragedies can be emotionally very difficult, though meaningful, work. SHRM also reports that finding — and keeping — talented workers has become more challenging during a period of especially low employee engagement.
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