“Human resources jobs may literally involve any aspect of an employer’s workforce,” Nancy H. Segal, founder and president of Solutions for the Workplace LLC, an HR consulting firm, said in an interview with U.S. News.
HR personnel are responsible for recruiting and screening job candidates, as well as providing orientations for new employees. They also oversee compensation and benefits, such as retirement plans and medical coverage, and will assist employees with questions related to these issues. Additionally, they handle disputes and other issues that affect employee relations; they may also serve as mediators for serious conflicts.
An online master’s degree in human resources can help candidates break into a competitive field. Established HR professionals seeking additional training to advance their careers are also well-suited for a master’s in human resources online. Web-based programs usually follow a self-paced schedule, making them an ideal option for students with family and/or job duties.
Some master’s-level HR programs fall into two categories: a Master of Science, which focuses on technical and career-related subjects; and a Master of Arts, which incorporates more liberal arts and humanities studies into the coursework. Additionally, many Master of Business Administration programs allow students to earn a specialization in human resources.
How long does it take to earn an online master’s in human resources?
The majority of online master’s in HR programs span 30 to 48 credits in length. Students who are enrolled full time will finish most programs within two years. However, some colleges and universities offer accelerated master’s programs that can be completed in as little as 12 months.
How much does an online master’s in human resources cost?
The overall cost of an online HR master’s program will depend on a few factors. State residency is one important consideration, since nonresidents tend to pay higher tuition rates; however, many colleges and universities offer tuition at a flat rate to all graduate students, regardless of their home state.
Other variables include program length. Students should expect to pay between $17,000 and $55,000 for their two-year program.
Online MHR degree admissions requirements
Most online master’s programs in human resources require applicants to have a bachelor’s degree in HR or a related field, such as business administration. Work experience may be required as well. GRE score minimums will vary by school; some colleges and universities waive the GRE requirement altogether.
Choosing an accredited online human resources degree program
Accreditation status is one of the most important considerations for prospective students. Colleges and universities in the U.S. receive accreditation from agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education; the accreditation process involves an extensive review of a school’s educational programs and student services.
A school’s accreditation will impact course credit transferability, as well as student eligibility for federal financial aid, so students should ensure the school offering the program has earned national or regional accreditation.
