By: HRMBA Staff
An MBA in Human Resources offers an array of benefits for those looking to get ahead in the business world. Such programs provide a well-rounded education. And students will gain a wide range of skills that can help them excel in almost any career. This article ranks the nation’s most affordable MBA human resources degree programs.
Best Human Resource Management MBA Programs
Earning an MBA in Human Resources allows you to learn valuable, relevant business skills. And it will also help you become an HR leader who can shape a company’s culture. Such programs focus on core business and HR-focused coursework. And your studies will prepare you for the challenges of managing people within a larger organization.
Most MBA degrees require that you complete a capstone project. This usually involves working on a challenging business or HR problem or issue. You will use your accumulated knowledge to develop a solution. This is a great way to synthesize all the learning you’ve received during your degree.
Depending on your chosen school, this project may be at a real-world organization. Or it may be adapted for another business area, such as marketing or finance. Either way, you can apply your critical thinking skills and solve a genuine business challenge. As a result, your resume will stand out to future employers.
Accreditation for MBA Programs in HR
The best MBA in Human Resources programs should be accredited. Each institution on our list is regionally accredited, ensuring only the highest-quality education. Additionally, many business schools are also accredited by specific accreditation agencies. These include:
- The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
- The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
- The International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE)
These agencies ensure that business schools meet the highest standards in business education. And they make sure that the MBA provides graduates with the skills needed for a rewarding business career.
A good MBA in Human Resources program will also offer a wide range of electives. This gives you the freedom to pursue a broad range of interests. This variety in your studies can allow you to explore new areas of business and HR. This can lead to new job opportunities that may not be attainable with a more focused degree.
Do I Need an Undergraduate Degree in Business or HR To Enter an MBA HR Program?
It depends on the specific program and its admission requirements. For example, some MBA programs may require a business or human resources bachelor’s degree. Others may accept applicants with undergraduate degrees in any field. Overall, having an undergraduate degree in HR or business can be advantageous in pursuing an MBA in HR. However, it is not necessarily a requirement for admission to such a program.
Related: 10 Best Affordable Accelerated 4+1 Bachelor’s to Master’s degrees in Human Resource Management
Online Human Resource Management MBAs
Most MBAs in Human Resources have a number of online learning options. Remote education makes it easier than ever for online students to get the education they need without leaving their homes or workplaces. Online MBAs in HR also often have a robust support system. For example, most have student services coaches who can help you every step of the way.
Most MBA in Human Resources programs also have an array of career development resources. This can help online students secure successful jobs in HR after graduation. Resources for online MBA programs can include networking opportunities, internships, and even help with applying for jobs.
Graduates who pursue an online MBA in Human Resources can expect to be qualified for many career paths. In addition, prospective employers appreciate that MBAs in HR know how to perform well in an increasingly complex market.
See Also: Online Master’s in HR
How Long Will an MBA in Human Resources Take?
Depending on the school, an MBA in HR can take anywhere from 12 to 24 months. However, many schools offer students the option of attending full or part-time. So the time to completion can vary according to your schedule.
Job Outlook for Those With an MBA in Human Resources
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for human resource managers is $126,230 per year. This amount is based on an HR professional with an undergraduate degree. The salary for someone with an MBA can be significantly higher. Additionally, HR is a growing field. For example, The number of jobs in this sector is expected to increase by seven percent through 2031. That amounts to roughly 16,300 new openings for human resources managers each year over the next decade.
What Does an HR Manager or Specialist do?
Managers and specialists generally oversee the HR department of a company or business. They serve as a liaison between management and employees. Common tasks for these professionals include:
- Recruiting and hiring new staff members
- Setting up training programs for new hires
- Providing guidelines and guidance on corporate policies as they affect employees
- Ensuring compliance with all state and federal employment regulations
- Designing a performance review and salary recommendation structure
- Managing benefits to include vacation, sick time, insurance, and leave
- Providing recommendations regarding team building
- Enhancement of employee morale and general corporate culture
Methodology for the Top Affordable MBA in Human Resources Programs
There are hundreds of great schools that offer MBA degrees in HR. With so many, choosing the right one can be difficult. However, we have made your school search easier. We’ve found the top 50 most affordable schools for an MBA HR degree.
After we compiled our list of the least expensive schools, we ranked them based on affordability. The tuition figures come from the latest data reported by NCES College Navigator. Please note that the costs listed are based on in-state tuition per academic year. Fees are not included. And tuition for out-of-state students may vary.
50 Most Affordable MBA Human Resources Degree Programs 2023
| School Name | Graduate Net Price | |
| #50 | Franklin Pierce University | $36,150 |
| #49 | Saint Leo University | $26,050 |
| #48 | Nova Southeastern University | $21,153 |
| #47 | Upper Iowa University | $19,685 |
| #46 | University of the Incarnate Word | $18,540 |
| #45 | DePaul University | $17,951 |
| #44 | Grand Canyon University | $17,800 |
| #43 | Northcentral University | $16,881 |
| #42 | Goldey-Beacom College | $16,632 |
| #41 | Eastern Michigan University | $16,562 |
| #40 | Davenport University | $16,308 |
| #39 | Regent University | $15,590 |
| #38 | Strayer University – District of Columbia | $14,940 |
| #37 | Capella University | $14,784 |
| #36 | Colorado Technical University | $13,683 |
| #35 | Brenau University | $13,590 |
| #34 | Webster University | $13,500 |
| #33 | Oregon State University | $13,466 |
| #32 | Tiffin University | $12,600 |
| #31 | Baker College | $12,510 |
| #30 | Lakeland University | $12,366 |
| #29 | American InterContinental University | $12,244 |
| #28 | University of Massachusetts – Global | $12,240 |
| #27 | North Greenville University | $11,880 |
| #26 | Holy Family University | $11,851 |
| #25 | Bethel University | $11,723 |
| #24 | Concordia University – Wisconsin | $11,628 |
| #23 | Baldwin Wallace University | $11,363 |
| #22 | SUNY at Albany | $11,310 |
| #21 | SUNY Empire State College | $11,310 |
| #20 | Herzing University – Madison | $10,800 |
| #19 | University of Wisconsin – Madison | $10,728 |
| #18 | Belhaven University | $10,530 |
| #17 | McKendree University | $9,756 |
| #16 | Bryan College – Dayton | $9,630 |
| #15 | Spring Arbor University | $8,093 |
| #14 | Liberty University | $7,847 |
| #13 | Brigham Young University | $7,700 |
| #12 | Texas State University | $7,147 |
| #11 | Utah State University | $6,534 |
| #10 | University of North Texas | $6,350 |
| #9 | University of Nebraska at Omaha | $6,138 |
| #8 | University of New Mexico | $6,050 |
| #7 | Texas A&M University – Central Texas | $5,558 |
| #6 | Clayton State University | $5,513 |
| #5 | Texas Woman’s University | $5,112 |
| #4 | North Carolina A&T State University | $4,745 |
| #3 | Columbia Southern University | $3,900 |
| #2 | Fort Hays State University | $3,726 |
| #1 | Fitchburg State University | $3,420 |
Ranking The Most Affordable MBA HR Programs
#50 Franklin Pierce University
Rindge, New Hampshire
MBA in HRM
Franklin Pierce University features an excellent MBA for HR management. This degree is for students who want to become leaders in the workplace. Franklin Pierce is the only university in the state to offer an SHRM-approved HR program. They are also an approved provider by the HR Certification Institute. Students at FPU enjoy a flexible and personalized program. And the hybrid learning model provides a great work-life balance.
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
In-state graduate tuition: $36,150
#49 Saint Leo University
Saint Leo, Florida
MBA in HRM
Saint Leo University has an affordable MBA Human Resources Management degree. It gives students the skills and experiences needed for advanced HR positions. This ACBSP-accredited MBA emphasizes leadership skill development. Students can take up to two courses each term and complete their degree in one year. An optional internship experience is available for students in this MBA HRM program.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
In-state graduate tuition: $26,050
#48 Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
MBA in HRM
Nova Southeastern University features a top-value MBA with a major in HR management. It is offered through the school’s College of Business and Entrepreneurship. Students gain a strong foundation in advanced business concepts. And they develop the specialized skills needed for success in HR management. Students can choose to complete a strategic HRM course or an internship. All classes are offered at the Fort Lauderdale/Davie Campus and online. The curriculum for this MBA HRM program includes foundation courses such as:
- Human Resource Development
- Managing Total Rewards
- Employee Relations
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
In-state graduate tuition: $21,153
#47 Upper Iowa University
Fayette, Iowa
MBA – HRM
Upper Iowa University offers a low-cost MBA in HR management. It is designed for both recent graduates and seasoned professionals. And it can help candidates take their careers to the next level. The curriculum aligns with the SHRM guidelines. The program consists of five eight-week sessions and a six-week summer session. New students can enter the program at the start of any session. Some of the required courses include:
- Labor/Management Relations
- Compensation and Benefits
- Development and Management of HRM
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
In-state graduate tuition: $19,685
#46 University of the Incarnate Word
San Antonio, Texas
MBA in Human Resource Management
The University of the Incarnate Word offers an affordable MBA in HRM. It is administered by the School of Professional Studies. It is a 10-month program with no GMAT or GRE requirement. This affordable MBA program is designed for working professionals who want to advance or change their careers. Graduates with at least 500 hours of HR experience may be eligible to sit for the SHRM-CP exam. Some of the HRM courses include:
- Applied HRM
- Metrics and Measures of HR
- Strategic Human Resources Management
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
In-state graduate tuition: $18,540
#45. DePaul University
Chicago, Illinois
MBA in Management
DePaul University features a low-cost HR MBA. Students can choose a concentration in Management. Students will master advanced skills in negotiation, consulting, and career coaching. And they will also learn human capital management. Graduates are prepared to sit for the SHRM certification exam. New students are admitted to the program during all four terms. Some of the courses for this MBA include:
- Training and Career Management
- Leadership in Organizations
- Recruitment and Selection
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
In-state graduate tuition: $17,951
#44 Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, Arizona
MBA in Strategic HRM
Grand Canyon University offers an excellent MBA in Strategic HRM. It is provided through the Colangelo College of Business. Students will learn about strategic HR processes to achieve an organization’s goals. Courses are offered online and in the evenings for maximum flexibility. The curriculum aligns with the SHRM guidelines. A few of the HRM-focused courses in this online MBA in human resources include:
- Acquiring, Developing, and Leveraging Human Capital
- Leadership and Organizations
- Operations Management
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
In-state graduate tuition: $17,800
#43 Northcentral University
La Jolla, California
MBA in HRM
Northcentral University offers an affordable SHRM-aligned human resources management MBA. It focuses on the relationships between employees, their leadership, and the organization. Students will learn how to develop and maintain these critical relationships. The degree can be completed in as few as 16 months. Some of the human resource management concentration courses include:
- Recruitment and Human Resource Information Systems
- Global Talent Development and Management
- Compensation Issues in HRM
Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
In-state graduate tuition: $16,881
#42 Goldey-Beacom College
Wilmington, Delaware
MBA in Human Resources Management
Goldey-Beacom College offers an MBA with a Human Resource Management concentration. It is an inexpensive HR MBA for working professionals. Students will learn how to make complex business decisions. They will also develop their leadership abilities. Traditional MBA courses give students advanced knowledge in financial analysis and management. Some of the human resource management concentration courses include:
- Organizational Talent Acquisition
- Total Compensation Management
- Training and Development
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
In-state graduate tuition: $16,632
#41 Eastern Michigan University
Ypsilanti, Michigan
MBA in HRM
Eastern Michigan University offers an excellent MBA in Human Resource Management. The program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Students will gain a global understanding of business while focusing on corporate ethics. The 136-credit hour curriculum includes foundation, core, electives, and specialized courses. Students can take classes in the evening, online, on-campus, or hybrid. Some of the human resource management courses include:
- International HRM
- Current Issues in HRM
- Human Resources and Technology
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
In-state graduate tuition: $16,562
#40 Davenport University
Grand Rapids, Michigan
MBA in HRM
Davenport University offers one of the least expensive MBA human resource management programs. Industry-experienced leaders teach the courses. And they share their professional experiences with their students. This 39-credit hour program prepares students for the SHRM Certified Professional exam. There is no GMAT required for admission. Some courses in this business administration program include:
- Ethical and Legal Framework for 21st-Century Business
- Organizational Development and Training
- Employment Law and Labor Relations
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
In-state graduate tuition: $16,308
#39 Regent University
Virginia Beach, Virginia
MBA in Human Resource Management
Regent University offers a high-quality MBA HR Management degree. This ACBSP-accredited program is available online or on campus. Students will learn labor relations, training, and development. And they will gain skills in all aspects of HR management. Graduates of the 42-credit hour program will also be prepared to sit for the SHRM-CP exam. Some of the courses in this online MBA in human resources include:
- Training and Development
- Labor Relations and Collective Bargaining
- Strategic HRM and Issues
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
In-state graduate tuition: $15,590
#38 Strayer University – District of Columbia
Washington, DC
MBA in HRM
Strayer University offers an online Master of Business Administration in Human Resource Management. Students will learn what it takes to develop strong teams. There is no GRE or GMAT required for admission. The program consists of ten 11-week core courses. A few of these include:
- Strategic HRM
- Managing Organizational Change
- Strategic Management
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
In-state graduate tuition: $14,940
#37 Capella University
Minneapolis, Minnesota
MBA – HRM
Capella University is renowned for its excellence in online education. They offer an affordable online Human Resource Management MBA. The program focuses on current and emerging HR best practices. Personalized leadership coaching helps students build a management skills plan. Graduates will have an ePortfolio showing the real-world solutions developed through their coursework. The degree includes seven core courses and three specialized courses focused on HR.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
In-state graduate tuition: $14,784
#36 Colorado Technical University
Colorado Springs, Colorado
MBA in HRM
Colorado Technical University has a budget-friendly online MBA in Human Resource Management. It is a comprehensive degree program accredited by the ACBSP. It aligns with the SHRM guidelines. The curriculum integrates Intellipath for online learning. Students can customize coursework to meet their current knowledge level. Core courses are five and a half weeks long, and new sessions begin every eight weeks. Students can complete their degree in as few as 12 months of study.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
In-state graduate tuition: $13,683
#35 Brenau University
Gainesville, Georgia
MBA in Human Resources Management
Specialized training and real-world experiences are critical to a successful program. The affordable MBA in HRM from Brenau University delivers both. Students are guaranteed a curriculum with real-world relevance to the global marketplace. The program includes fifteen core courses that lead to an MBA and a certificate in HRM. Most students can complete their degree in about two years.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
In-state graduate tuition: $13,590
#34 Webster University
St. Louis, Missouri
MBA in Human Resources Management
Webster University features a unique dual degree option. It is for students who want to earn their MA and MBA in HRMt. This 51-54 credit hour program teaches students business competencies and HR skills. All students complete an integrated study in HRM. They also complete a consulting project. This helps them gain valuable hands-on experience and professional development.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
In-state graduate tuition: $13,500
#33 Oregon State University
Corvallis, Oregon
MBA in Human Resource Management
Oregon State University offers an affordable MBA in HRM. The program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Students can take classes online, on campus, or both. Students get leadership, interpersonal, and business skills to contribute successfully to organizational performance. Some of the HRM coursework includes:
- Data Analytics for Competitive Advantage
- Human Resources Management
- Employee Recruitment & Selection
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
In-state graduate tuition: $13,446
#32 Tiffin University
Tiffin, Ohio
MBA in Human Resource Management
Tiffin University has an affordable MBA with a Human Resource Management Concentration. Students learn to develop the right people for the right roles. And they are equipped to become a proficient human resource manager. This degree program is an excellent choice for mid-level HR professionals. It is also ideal for those who want more career opportunities in the field. Human resources concentration courses are offered on-campus and online for maximum flexibility.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
In-state graduate tuition: $12,600
#31 Baker College
Owosso, Michigan
MBA in HRM
Baker College offers a two-year, budget-friendly online MBA in Human Resource Management. In this program, students learn to navigate complex business challenges. This IACBE-accredited program is taught by experienced professionals who share real-world experiences. Students can complete the program in two years, but there is also an Accelerated Path option. This can help students finish even quicker.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
In-state graduate tuition: $12,510
Related: Best Affordable Accelerated Master’s in HR
#30 Lakeland University
Plymouth, Wisconsin
MBA in Human Resource Management
Lakeland University offers an affordable Master of Business Administration. It aligns with SHRM’s HR Guidebook and Templates. Students will learn to operate ethically, professionally, and collaboratively. Courses are taught by professional faculty who hold terminal degrees in their field. A few of the human resource management concentration courses include:
- HR Management
- HR Strategy and Planning
- Talent Development and Performance Management
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
In-state graduate tuition: $12,366
#29 American InterContinental University
Chandler, Arizona
MBA with a Specialization in HRM
American InterContinental University offers an inexpensive MBA in Human Resources online. It is a customized program using Intellipath adaptive learning technology. Students can skip what they already know. This allows them to dedicate their time to mastering new concepts. The affordable degree program is accredited by the ACBSP. Additionally, the curriculum aligns with the SHRM guidelines. Students can transfer up to 12 qualifying credits.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
In-state graduate tuition: $12,244
#28 University of Massachusetts – Global
Irvine, California
MBA in Human Resources
UMass Global offers one of the best online MBA in Human Resources degrees. The program covers a variety of theories and practices in compensation, evaluation, and incentives. Students will develop strong leadership abilities while learning every aspect of business practice. Some of the business administration courses include:
- Total Rewards
- HRM in Public Administration
- Labor Relations and Collective Bargaining
Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
In-state graduate tuition: $12,240
#27 North Greenville University
Tigerville, South Carolina
MBA in HR
North Greenville University has an inexpensive HR MBA. It incorporates biblical principles within the program. Students will broaden their knowledge from fundamental approaches to complicated global tactics. The 36-credit hour program takes 14 to 18 months to complete. NGU offers five start dates a year. Some core courses include:
- HR Selection and Placement
- International HR
- Strategic Issues in HR
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
In-state graduate tuition: $11,880
#26 Holy Family University
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
MBA in HRM
Holy Family University is a Catholic university. It offers a top-value MBA in Human Resource Management. This fully online MBA program can be completed in 12 months. There is no GMAT required for admission. Professional work experience is required for the traditional online MBA program. Students with no work experience should consider the New Professionals MBA program. All students complete a capstone block. It consists of a course covering case studies in management.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
In-state graduate tuition: $11,851
#25 Bethel University
McKenzie, Tennessee
Human Resource MBA
Bethel University offers a Master of Business Administration with an HR Concentration. It is a robust degree program that prepares students to become credentialed HR professionals. This inexpensive HR program aligns with the SHRM education guidelines. The average completion time is approximately two years. However, students interested in finishing faster can take several courses concurrently. Some of the core courses include:
- Performance Management in Organizations
- Total Rewards: Compensation and Benefits
- Workforce Planning and Staffing
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
In-state graduate tuition: $11,723
#24 Concordia University – Wisconsin
Mequon, Wisconsin
MBA in HRM
Concordia University Wisconsin offers a high-quality MBA in Human Resource Management. The school’s mission is “to provide a holistic and faith-based education.” The program prepares students to manage the relationships between people and their organizations. This 36-credit hour program is designed for those interested in the skills needed to be a human resource manager. Students interested should note there are no GMAT or GRE requirements to apply. And courses can be taken online or on campus.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
In-state graduate tuition: $11,628
#23 Baldwin Wallace University
Berea, Ohio
MBA in Human Resources
Baldwin Wallace University School of Business offers an affordable MBA in Human Resources. The program is AACSB accredited and aligned with SHRM. Instructors use real-world applications to help position students for more career opportunities in the field. Graduates have the managerial and leadership abilities to work in human capital management. HRM courses include:
- Staffing and Development
- Employment Law
- Compensation
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
In-state graduate tuition: $11,363
#22 SUNY at Albany
Albany, New York
MBA in Human Resources Information Systems
The University at Albany features a unique MBA. It contains a concentration on HRInformation Systems. This inexpensive MBA program is the only one of its kind to hold dual accreditation from the SHRM and the AACSB. Students will learn to use technology to increase workplace performance and efficiency. Specialized courses cover areas such as:
- HR Management
- Organizational Behavior and Managerial Skills
- Quantitative Analysis for Business
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
In-state graduate tuition: $11,310
#21 SUNY Empire State College
Saratoga Springs, New York
MBA in Business Management in HRM
SUNY Empire State College offers a high-value MBA in Human Resource Management. It is intended for early to mid-career managers who want leadership career opportunities in the field. This 36-credit hour MBA program is entirely online. So it’s ideal for working professionals. Full-time online students can complete their degrees in 20 months. Featured HRM courses include:
- Corporate Communication and Marketing Strategy
- High-Performance Management
- Performance Management and Total Rewards
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
In-state graduate tuition: $11,310
Related: Best Affordable Public Universities Online Masters HR Management
#20 Herzing University – Madison
Madison, Wisconsin
MBA in Human Resources
Herzing University has an inexpensive MBA in Human Resources. The program helps students make the transition from the classroom to the workplace. The experienced faculty create a student-centered learning environment. Both full and part-time options are available. This enables students to work at their own pace. The HR concentration includes courses such as:
- HR Management
- Business and Labor Law
- Compensation and Rewards Management
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
In-state graduate tuition: $10,800
#19 University of Wisconsin – Madison
Madison, Wisconsin
MBA in Strategic Human Resource Management
The University of Wisconsin-Madison has a cost-effective and renowned MBA. Students can choose a specialization in Strategic HRMt. They will complete consulting projects and learn to solve human resources challenges. And MBA graduates will be able to contribute to corporate strategy at the highest levels. The program includes foundation courses such as:
- Managing Technological and Organizational Change
- Economics for Managers
- Personnel Staffing and Evaluation
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
In-state graduate tuition: $10,728
#18 Belhaven University
Orlando, Florida
MBA in Human Resources
Belhaven University offers a Master of Business Administration with a Human Resources concentration. This affordable program is based on Christian values. Courses are offered in eight-week terms that are manageable for working professionals. The curriculum aligns with the SHRM guidelines. Featured foundation courses in the 36-credit hour degree program include:
- Current Issues in HR
- HR Employee Relations
- HR Compensation and Benefits
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
In-state graduate tuition: $10,530
#17 McKendree University
Lebanon, Illinois
MBA in HRM
McKendree University offers an excellent Human Resources MBA. It emphasizes both theory and practical application. This is a flexible program for those with or without a background in business. Students gain a strong foundation of business knowledge. The program can be completed in as little as 15 months. A few of the HR courses include:
- Global HR Development
- Stakeholder Management and Ethics
- Legal Issues for Managers
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
In-state graduate tuition: $9,756
#16 Bryan College – Dayton
Dayton, Tennessee
MBA in Human Resources
Bryan College prepares ethical HR professionals through their online MBA in Human Resources. There are no residency requirements. All courses are taught from a Christian worldview. And they are offered in an eight-week accelerated format. Students can complete this affordable MBA degree in 14 months. The IACBE-accredited program features a curriculum that aligns with the SHRM guidelines.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
In-state graduate tuition: $9,630
#15 Spring Arbor University
Spring Arbor, Michigan
MBA in Human Resource Development
Spring Arbor University offers a fully online MBA in HR Development. Students learn how to integrate ethical Christian values into their HR plans. An accelerated program option is available for students who want to finish in 12 months. Graduates will gain vital skills in team training and development. Some of the HRD concentration courses include:
- Workplace Learning and Professional Development
- Management of Organizational Behavior
- Human Resource Development
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
In-state graduate tuition: $8,093
#14 Liberty University
Lynchburg, Virginia
MBA in Human Resources
The School of Business at Liberty University offers an online MBA in Human Resources. The ACBSP-accredited program emphasizes contemporary issues in HR. Students gain the skills needed to be competitive in a rapidly changing industry. They learn how to handle employee labor relations and encourage human capital growth. Graduates are prepared to sit for the PHR exam offered by the HRCI.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
In-state graduate tuition: $7,847
#13 Brigham Young University
Provo, Utah
MBA in Strategic Human Resources
Brigham Young University features an inexpensive MBA in Strategic Human Resources. Students gain practical experience throughout the program. They participate in special projects and student research. The faculty are valued leaders in the business world. And they are highly dedicated to their students. The curriculum includes foundation courses such as:
Strategic Issues in Operations
Labor Relations & Employment Law
HRM Skills
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
In-state graduate tuition: $7,700
#12 Texas State University
San Marcos, Texas
MBA in HRM
Texas State University offers an affordable MBA in Human Resource Management degree. The program is AACSB accredited and comprises 36 credit hours. It takes about 28 months to complete. Courses are offered during the evening to accommodate working professionals. Students can participate in an optional internship and an international trip. The HRM curriculum includes foundation courses like:
- International Human Resource Management
- Group Dynamics in Organizations
- Labor Relations and Negotiation
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
In-state graduate tuition: $7,147
#11 Utah State University
Logan, Utah
MBA and Master of Human Resources Dual Degree Program
The Jon M. Huntsman School of Business at Utah State University offers a unique MBA in HR. It is a skill-based dual MBA and Master of Human Resources program accredited by the AACSB. This concurrent program includes accounting, finance, marketing, and management coursework. Students complete a global learning experience during the first year in the program. There is also an internship during the second year. This allows students networking opportunities. Some of the core coursework includes:
- Talent Acquisition and Retention
- Labor/Employee Relations
- Compensation and Benefits
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
In-state graduate tuition: $6,534
#10 University of North Texas
Denton, Texas
MBA in Management: Organizational Behavior and Human Resource Management
The University of North Texas features an affordable MBA. It has an Organizational Behavior and Human Resource Management Concentration. Courses are taught by experienced business and HR professionals. And students can complete the program online or on campus. Some of the human resource courses include:
- Employment Placement and Personnel
- Leadership Research and Development
- Seminar on Compensation and Motivation
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
In-state graduate tuition: $6,350
#9 University of Nebraska at Omaha
Omaha, Nebraska
MBA in Human Resource Management
The University of Nebraska offers an affordable MBA in Human Resource Management. It is focused on both theory and application. This best-value AACSB-accredited MBA program comprises 33 credit hours. Foundation courses are delivered in eight-week blocks during the fall and spring semesters. A short four-week summer session is also offered. All students complete a project-focused capstone course. They also work on an applied project for an organization. This allows them to find exciting networking opportunities.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
In-state graduate tuition: $6,138
#8 University of New Mexico
Albuquerque, New Mexico
MBA in Organizational Behavior and Human Resource Management
The University of New Mexico features an innovative and inexpensive MBA. It is focused on Organizational Behavior and HRM. The program is administered through the Anderson School of Management. The 31-credit hour curriculum includes HR courses such as:
- Creative Leadership and Innovative Organizations
- Advanced Legal Issues for Managers
- Negotiation Strategies
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
In-state graduate tuition: $6,050
#7 Texas A&M University-Central Texas
Killeen, Texas
MBA in Human Resource Management
Texas A&M University-Central Texas offers a flexible Master of Business Administration. Students can choose a concentration in Human Resource Management. This program is offered exclusively online. Most students complete the program in two years, but it can be completed as quickly as 16 months. Students must complete a culminating capstone interdisciplinary case study project. Texas A&M also offers a Master of Science in Human Resource Management.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
In-state graduate tuition: $5,558
#6 Clayton State University
Morrow, Georgia
MBA in Human Resource Leadership
Clayton State University has an affordable MBA in Human Resource Leadership program. This 33-credit hour program is accredited by the AACSB. Classes are in eight-week sessions that usually meet at night. Students learn to strengthen their technology skills through online content. They can also complete a global experience or study abroad trip. The human resources online curriculum includes courses such as:
- Talent Development in Organizations
- Human Resource Consulting
- Global Human Resource Leadership
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
In-state graduate tuition: $5,513
#5 Texas Woman’s University
Denton, Texas
MBA in Human Resource Management
Texas Women’s University offers a very inexpensive MBA in Human Resource Management. No GRE or GMAT is required for admission, and courses are 100% online. Small class size allows for personalized attention by knowledgeable instructors. The accelerated format allows students to move quickly through the program. Graduates have a tailored career plan and networking opportunities. The program can be completed in as little as 15 months.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
In-state graduate tuition: $5,112
#4 North Carolina A&T State University
Greensboro, North Carolina
MBA in HRM
North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University offers an MBA in HRM. This is an inexpensive, high-quality AACSB-accredited MBA program. It is taught by top faculty who are committed to excellence in education. A capstone course in corporate strategy and policy is taken in the final semester. Some of the human resource concentration courses include:
- Staffing: Workforce Planning and Development
- Employee Relations and Development
- HRM Strategy
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
In-state graduate tuition: $4,745
#3 Columbia Southern University
Orange Beach, Alabama
MBA in Human Resource Management
Columbia Southern University offers a top-notch, affordable MBA in HRM. It can be started at any time with the LifePace Learning platform. Students can work through the program at their own pace. They advance to more challenging courses as concepts are mastered. Term enrollment is also available with 11 term start dates per year.
- Training and Development
- HRM 6304 Labor Relations and Collective Bargaining
- Compensation Management
Accreditation: Distance Education Accrediting Commission
In-state graduate tuition: $3,900
#2 Fort Hays State University
Hays, Kansas
MBA in Human Resource Management
Fort Hays State University offers an affordable MBA in HRM. Courses can be completed online or on campus. The program features a well-designed curriculum that includes challenging and exciting learning experiences. No GMAT or GRE is required for admission. All students work with a dedicated advisor to guide them through the program. The 33-credit hour curriculum includes HRM courses such as:
- Recruitment Selection and Retention
- Total Compensation
- Training and Development
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
In-state graduate tuition: $3,726
#1 Fitchburg State University
Fitchburg, Massachusetts
MBA in HRM
Fitchburg State University offers the cheapest MBA in HR Management program on our list. However, it’s also a high-quality, academically rigorous program. It is designed for students who want to be leaders in business and HR. This IACBE-accredited program can be completed in just 12 months of full-time study. It is offered entirely online for working professionals. There are multiple start dates throughout the year.
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
In-state graduate tuition: $3,420
This concludes our ranking of the most affordable MBA human resource management programs.
HRMBA Staff March 2023
