By HRD Staff
The field of Human Resources is a diverse industry where professionals plan, direct, and coordinate a business’ most important assets, their people. According to the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for these types of professionals is growing faster than average, with 10,800 new jobs expected in the next 10 years.
Earning an advanced degree in human resources can provide students with the additional education and experience to manage payroll, recruit new staff, and supervise employee relations in both union and non-union settings. Earning a master’s in human resources online is a great way to gain additional credentials and education, while continuing to work full time to move up the corporate ladder. Many students prefer to earn their degree from a small school which can provide additional individualized attention which is important when earning an advanced degree. Class sizes are typically small and instructors often have more time to work with students.
Methodology
We created a list of the best small schools offering an online master’s in human resources. We considered schools with 7,000 or fewer undergraduate students for our initial list. We then narrowed our list to include only accredited schools offering an online program directly related to human resource management. We ranked our final list in order of average graduate tuition rates according to College Navigator. Our list of the top small schools for an online master’s in human resources is below.
Related Resource: What is Workforce Diversity?
#50. University of Denver-Denver, Colorado
MS in Strategic Human Resources
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $51,336
Unique Features
The College of Professional and Continuing Studies at the University of Denver offers a master’s in human resources with concentrations available in HR employment relations, HR management and development, HR operations, and learning and development. The University of Denver is considered one of the best national universities according to U.S. News and World Report, as well as a top small school for human resources based on their approved provider status with the Human Resource Certification Institute. Students can complete their degree either online or on campus, and short 10 week terms allow students to move through the program quickly, saving both time and money. There are no GRE or GMAT requirements for this program.
#49. The Catholic University of America-Washington, District of Columbia
Master of Science in Management-Human Resource Management Track
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $48,000
Unique Features
The Busch School of Business at The Catholic University of America follows the philosophy of “Business as a Force for Good.” As a top small school for human resources, The Catholic University of America offers a rigorous program taught by experienced HR professionals and educators. The MSM in Human Resource Management is a 12 course program offered during the evening to accommodate working professionals. Designed for current and future human resource professionals, students complete coursework in project management, strategic planning, compensation and benefits, and communication.
#48. Saint Francis University-Loretto, Pennsylvania
Online Master of Human Resource Management (MHRM)
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $25,000
Unique Features
Saint Francis University was founded in 1847, following the values of Saint Francis of Assisi by connecting to the power of faith and prayer by respecting individuals, serving those less fortunate, and having a humble and generous attitude toward learning. The online master’s in human resource management from this top small school for an HR degree is a 30 credit hour program that can be completed in just two years of full time study. Courses are offered asynchronously, allowing students to complete coursework when it is most convenient. Students who need professional work experience can complete an internship experience.
#47. La Salle University-Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Online Master of Science in Human Capital Development
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $25,060
Unique Features
La Salle University is a Catholic university named after St. John Baptist de La Salle, the patron saint of teachers. This top small school for HR offers a completely online master’s program for busy adult learners. Courses are eight weeks long, allowing students to quickly move through the program by completing two courses each semester. Both asynchronous and synchronous learning sessions provide the opportunity for students to interact with each other as well as the opportunity to work independently. Students complete innovative courses such as advanced negotiating, training a global workforce, and organizational interventions.
#46. Florida Institute of Technology-Melbourne, Florida
MS–Human Resources Management
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $22,338
Unique Features
Florida Institute of Technology is the only independent technological university in the southeast and is considered a Tier 1 Best National University by U.S. News and World Report. This top school for HR offers a flexible HR program that can be completed online or on-campus, depending on the needs of the student. Students are engaged in lecture and discussion, group work, role playing, and consulting activities. In the final year of the program, students complete a capstone experience working with an organization in need of consulting services in HR. This 33 credit hour program includes courses in business law, financial accounting, business ethics, and conflict resolution.
Related Resource: Top 25 Online Masters in HR No GRE or GMAT Required
#45. Nazareth College-Rochester, New York
Master of Science in Human Resource Management
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $17,244
Unique Features
Nazareth College is a top small school for HR offering one of only two HR programs in upstate New York with a curriculum approved by the Society for Human Resource Management. The curriculum was developed by an advisory council of over 20 senior human resource executives in the area. Students can elect to complete the program online, on campus, or in a hybrid format. Courses provide students with the knowledge and experience to lead organizations to attract, retain, and develop their most valuable asset, their staff. The program is accredited by the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education.
#44. LeTourneau University-Longview, Texas
Professional Master’s of Business Administration with a Specialization in Human Resource Management
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $18,618
Unique Features
LeTourneau University is a nondenominational Christian university offering a broad array of undergraduate and graduate degrees in liberal arts, science, business, technology, education, and aeronautical science. As one of the best HR schools, LeTourneau University offers a 36 credit hour professional MBA program with a specialization in human resource management. The program is ideal for professionals with three to seven years of experience who plan to advance to senior management. The human resource management concentration prepares students for positions including benefits manager, training and development manager, or human resource managers. Three courses are required as part of the concentration including HR management, dynamics of teams and communities, and organizational change and development.
#43. Lincoln Memorial University-Harrogate, Tennessee
Master of Business Administration with a Concentration in Human Resource Management
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $18,093
Unique Features
Lincoln Memorial University is a top HR small school offering a 36 credit hour MBA with a concentration in human resource management. Students can earn their degree online, on-campus, or by blending the two types of classes. Students can choose to earn their degree while attending either full time or part time. Students complete 24 credits of core business courses and 12 credits of elective coursework focused specifically on HR. The curriculum helps students apply their knowledge to the real world by incorporating case studies, group discussion, and consulting opportunities in the community
#42. Nova Southeastern University-Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Online MBA in Human Resource Management
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $18,373
Unique Features
Nova Southeastern University is a top small school for HR offering some of the best online graduate education programs in the country according to U.S. News and World Report. The online MBA with a concentration in human resource management is no exception. The program features five different start dates each year and can be completed in just 21 months of study. Students are prepared to lead their organization in successful HR campaigns including hiring, recognition, development, and advancement. The HR concentration is comprised of 5 courses including managing HR, employee relations, talent management, managing total rewards, and human resource development.
#41. Upper Iowa University-Fayette, Iowa
Master of Business Administration (MBA): Human Resource Management
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $21,060
Unique Features
Upper Iowa University was founded in 1857 and offers accredited programs through multiple delivery methods to keep up with a changing student population. This top small school for HR offers an online HRM certified by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM.) The program features professors with experience in the field and asynchronous courses to allow students to attend class when it is most convenient. Students can begin the program at the start of any term and there are no on campus residency requirements. Courses are offered in eight week terms which allow students to quickly move through the program while saving both time and money.
#40. Golden Gate University-San Francisco-San Francisco, California
Master of Science in Human Resource Management
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $19,620
Unique Features
Golden Gate University in San Francisco is a top affordable small school for HR, offering an online master’s in HRM designed for working professionals. Students have the opportunity to complete an internship to gain hands-on experience before graduating. Many of these internship opportunities lead to permanent job offers. Students are taught on an integrated learning platform that allows for instructor led sessions as well as peer to peer communication. This 33 credit hour program is comprised of 18 hours of core HR courses and 15 units of electives. Elective course options include unique offerings such as conflict resolution skills, tests and measurements, and management development methods.
#39. New England Institute of Business at Cambridge College-Boston, Massachusetts
Master of Human Resource Management
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $14,731
Unique Features
The New England Institute of Business at Cambridge College is a top affordable small HR school with a curriculum aligning with the standards set forth by the SHRM. Graduates are prepared to take the Professional in Human Resources (PHR) or the Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification exams upon earning their degree. Most students are working professionals and 63% work for an agency or organization having a Corporate Partner relationship with NECB. This 30 credit hour program includes courses in organizational change, talent management, human resource metrics, and recruitment and selection.
#38. Saint Joseph’s University-Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Strategic Human Resource Management Online M.S.
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $17,334
Unique Features
Saint Joseph’s University is a top affordable small college for an online HR degree. Considered one of the best business schools in the country by U.S. News and World Report, The Princeton Review, and the Aspen Institute, SJU is a great choice for students who strive to be strategic partners within their workplace. Offered by the Haub School of Business and accredited by the AACSB, the curriculum has been endorsed by the Society of Human Resources Management. Students can attend part-time and continue to work while earning their degree online.
#37. Franklin Pierce University-Rindge, New Hampshire
MBA in Human Resource Management
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $16,000
Unique Features
The online MBA in Human Resource Management program at Franklin Pierce University is an approved SHRM program, designed for working adults. Classes are offered 100% online and students who have obtained PHR/SPHR professional qualifications by the SHRM can receive continuing education credits for each course taken. Students learn to look at their organization from a system wide perspective to effectively develop and maintain their own HR department. There are no GMAT or GRE test scores required for admission to this program.
#36. Franklin University-Columbus, Ohio
Human Resource Management Master’s Degree Program
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $16,080
Unique Features
The online human resource management master’s degree from Franklin University is specially designed for students who want to advance their HR career. Students can earn their HRM master’s degree in just 16 months of study by taking courses online without any residency requirements. Faculty have industry experience and are familiar with the latest trends and practices in HR. Course offerings include international human resources, organizational leadership, and compensation and inventive systems. The curriculum is both relevant and consistent, providing students with class activities that can apply to practical situations.
#35. Dallas Baptist University-Dallas, Texas
Master’s in Management-Human Resource Management Concentration
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $18,072
Unique Features
Dallas Baptist University offers an online affordable master’s in HRM focused on litigation issues, salary strategies, and personnel development within an organization. A 24 credit hour core is comprised of courses such as operational finance, communications and business behavior, and business ethics. A 12 credit hour human resource management concentration core goes in depth into critical HR components such as compensation, staffing, and career management.
#34. Champlain College-Burlington, Vermont
Online Master’s Degree (MS) in Human Relations & Organization Development
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $14,310
Unique Features
The affordable online master’s in HR program at Champlain College is a 30 credit hour program with no set class meeting times and no residency requirements. Students can finish this top online master’s in HR in just 10 months by completing one to two courses every eight weeks. There is no GMAT or GRE required for admission. Faculty are experts in the field and help students hone their leadership skills. Students have the opportunity to earn certifications in positive organization development or employment law.
#33. University of the Southwest-Hobbs, New Mexico
MBA in Human Resource Management
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $22,500
Unique Features
The University of the Southwest offers an online MBA with a specialization in human resource management. This affordable online HRM master’s program is a 36 credit our program that can be completed in just one year of study. Students complete a 21 credit core and an additional 15 credits of specialized HR courses such as workforce planning, compensation and benefits, organizational training, and employment law. A capstone course covering organizational design and strategy is the final experience. Both HR professionals and those just starting out in the field will benefit from this flexible online program with no on-campus residency requirement. Faculty are experienced in the field and teach a current curriculum focused on the practical application of knowledge.
#32. Strayer University-Herndon, Virginia
Online Master’s in Human Resource Management
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $14,940
Unique Features
Strayer University is an affordable small college for an online HR master’s degree. Students can choose a concentration to customize their degree. Concentrations include human resource generalist and human resource and organizational development. Courses include: business employment law; managing HR projects; ethics and advocacy; and leadership and organizational behavior. Each concentration area is made up of 12 courses designed to prepare students to strengthen the future of their organization. Students can choose to learn online, in real-time by logging in to virtual classes at set times during the evenings and on the weekends. Students can also choose online courses which are available 24/7 with no set meeting times.
#31. City University of Seattle-Seattle, Washington
MBA with a Human Resource Management Emphasis
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $11,430
Unique Features
The City University of Seattle features an online human resource emphasis within its MBA program. The human resource online master’s program is accredited by the ACBSP. This concentration consists of 12 credit hours of HR coursework including: compensation and benefits; employment and labor law; employee staffing and development; and an internship opportunity. Class sizes are small and students should expect to receive individualized attention throughout the course of the program. There is no GMAT requirement for this program as long as students have earned their bachelor’s degree from an accredited university.
#30. University of St Francis-Joliet, Illinois
Master of Business Administration (MBA)-Human Resource Management Concentration
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $13,464
Unique Features
The University of St. Francis offers an online master’s in human resource management through their MBA program. This flexible online program can be completed in just 12-18 months of study. One of the unique attributes of the program is the ability for students to begin their concentration immediately, providing a value added benefit to both students and their employers. Courses cover areas such as talent management, total rewards compensation, employment and labor law, and needs analysis. The School of Business is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.
#29. Sullivan University-Louisville, Kentucky
Online Master’s in Human Resource Leadership
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $15,840
Unique Features
The online Master’s in Human Resource Leadership at Sullivan University has been recognized by the Society for Human Resource Management as a Top 10 SHRM Learning System. Courses cover the nine recognized areas of human resource management and emphasize experiential learning. Sullivan University incorporates cutting edge human resource competencies, being one of the first schools in the country to develop a new course specifically related to human capital analysis. The entire program can be completed in just 18 months of study by taking two courses each quarter.
#28. Davenport University-Grand Rapids, Michigan
Online MBA: Human Resource Management Concentration
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $14,958
Unique Features
The human resource management concentration at Davenport University is offered within the online MBA program. This 39 credit hour program prepares students to develop effective human resource strategies in a global environment. The concentration is comprised of an 18 credit hour core and 18 credits of HR concentration courses. Courses cover focus areas such as international human resources, public policy, organizational development and training, and preparation for the Certified Professional Human Resources certification. This program is open to students with or without a background in human resource management.
#27. North Park University-Chicago, Illinois
Master of Human Resource Management Degree
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $13,896
Unique Features
North Park University in Chicago features an affordable master’s in human resource management online with the opportunity to earn one certificate as part of the program. Courses are offered 100% online with no on-campus residency requirement. This 36 credit hour program is comprised of 13 core courses and five electives and can be completed in just two-and-a-half years. The program is flexible enough to accommodate seasoned professionals as well as those who are new to the field. North Park University values lifelong learning and provides students who have completed their master’s from the School of Business and Nonprofit Management with a 50% tuition discount for all future business and nonprofit courses.
#26. Webster University-Saint Louis, Missouri
Master’s in Human Resource Management
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $13,500
Unique Features
The ACBSP accredited online master’s in human resource management program at Webster University is designed to prepare students to successfully manage the modern workforce. Course content is applicable across a variety settings, including both domestic and international nonprofits, government, and corporations. This 36 credit hour program covers material such as staffing, compensation, labor-management relations, and basic finance. There is no GRE requirement for this program and students can begin the program at the start of any semester.
#25. Tiffin University-Tiffin, Ohio
MBA Human Resource Management Online
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $12,600
Unique Features
Tiffin University features an online MBA with a concentration in human resource management accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. The program is designed for professionals who want to advance their HR careers and become leaders within their organizations. This 36 credit hour online master’s in human resource management is comprised of 28 credits of MBA core coursework and eight credit hours specifically related to HR. Human resource courses include negotiations and conflict management, talent development, and strategic human resource management. Courses are offered in seven-week terms beginning six times a year, allowing students to move quickly through the program.
#24. Johnson & Wales University-Online-Providence, Rhode Island
Master of Science in Human Resource Management
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $13,734
Unique Features
The online affordable master’s in human resource management from Johnson and Wales University is a flexible program that prepares students to become effective HR leaders. Students gain expertise in business planning, financial literacy, business process analysis, and SWOT analysis. Course content specifically aligns with the guidelines provided by both the Society for Human Resource Management and the Human Resource Certification Institute. This 45 credit hour program is comprised of 10 courses specifically related to human resource management. Graduates are prepared to sit for the Human Resource Certification Institute’s Profession in Human Resources (PHR) exam or the Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) exam.
#23. Brenau University-Gainesville, Georgia
Online Master of Business Administration in Human Resource Management
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $12,834
Unique Features
Students seeking an online master’s in human resource management with a blend of specialized training, personalized attention, and real-world experience should check out Brenau University. This affordable small school features a 45 credit hour human resource management MBA program that teaches students how to make HRM decisions align with the business goals of an organization. Students take a variety of coursework designed to broaden their understanding of business and human resource management on a domestic and international level. This 45 credit hour program can be completed in about two years of study.
#22. University of Scranton-Scranton, Pennsylvania
Master of Science in Human Resources Online
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $11,580
Unique Features
The University of Scranton offers an online master’s in human resources that fully aligns with the guidelines of the Society for Human Resource Management’s HR Curriculum Guidebook and Templates. Whether students have experience in the field or are just starting out, the online affordable master’s in human resources will prepare students to take on a leading role within their organization. This 39 credit hour program offers the same level of academic rigor as a more traditional on campus program with the added flexibility to attend class wherever and whenever it is most convenient.
#21. Regis University-Denver, Colorado
Master of Science in Organizational Leadership: Human Resource Management and Leadership
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $14,441
Unique Features
The master’s in human resource management online program at Regis University is designed to prepare students to be effective HR leaders in a dynamic global environment. Students can elect to pair their human resource management and leadership specialization with another area of specialization such as enterprise resource leadership and planning, Organization leadership management, or project leadership and management. Courses last eight weeks and students can begin the program at the start of each eight week term. This 30 credit hour program features 18 credit hours of specialization coursework covering areas such as attracting and retaining workforce talent, leading change and innovation, and compensation and benefits. A final capstone course in leading responsible organizations enables students to showcase their knowledge and expertise.
#20. Brandman University-Irvine, California
Master’s in Human Resources
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $11,880
Unique Features
Brandman University offers an online master’s in human resources designed to give students the knowledge and skills needed to manage their organization’s workforce. This 36 credit hour program includes 24 credits of core courses that include talent management, workforce planning, and globalization and diversity. Students complete nine credits of electives that can include courses in a variety of areas such as entrepreneurship, finance, health administration, marketing, and public administration. A capstone course in strategic management is also required. There is no GRE requirement for students with an undergraduate GPA above a 3.0 or a master’s degree earned from an accredited institution.
#19. Ottawa University-Online-Ottawa, Kansas
Master of Arts in Human Resources
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $11,430
Unique Features
The human resources online master’s degree at Ottawa University is an affordable program that aligns with the guides and templates from the SHRM. Students have the opportunity to select from a concentration in health care management or leadership and management. This program is specifically designed for students who are working and have limited time for school. Graduates are prepared to take exams to earn their designation as a SHRM Certified Professional or a SHRM Senior Certified Professional.
#18. National Louis University-Chicago, Illinois
Online Master of Science in Leadership with Human Resources Concentration
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $11,646
Unique Features
National Louis University in Chicago offers an affordable master’s in human resource management program online. Students can earn their degree entirely online or through a blended format. The program is designed for those who are ready to advance in their HR career as well as those who are just getting started or changing careers. Graduates are prepared to sit for both the HR Certification Institute and the SHRM professional exams to earn an Associate Professional in Human Resources (aPHR) certification, a Professional in Human Resources certification, or a SHRM Certified Professional certification. The program can usually be completed in 20 months after completing 12 courses.
#17. University of Saint Mary-Leavenworth, Kansas
Online MBA with a Human Resources Management Concentration
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $11,124
Unique Features
The MBA human resources management online concentration program at the University of Saint Mary focuses on the development of an organization’s most valuable asset, its people. The program can be completed in just one year of study and is ideal for those who want to advance or gain more business experience in their HR career. Students complete an MBA core and three courses in human resource management which include conflict management and negotiation, legal and ethical environment of business, and organizational change and development.
#16. Indiana Wesleyan University-National and Global-Marion, Indiana
MS in Human Resource Management
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $13,440
Unique Features
Indiana Wesleyan University features an online affordable master’s in human resource management that utilizes a biblical framework. Students develop an understanding of how to maximize human potential and fulfill their organization’s mission and values through its people. This 36 credit hour program includes courses in total rewards management, strategic risk assessment, decision making, and ethics in management. Courses are taken in a set order, one at a time, and build on each other. Monthly start dates allow students to begin the program as soon as they are ready without having to wait on a traditional semester schedule to begin.
#15. Concordia University-Mequon, Wisconsin
MBA in Human Resource Management
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $11,052
Unique Features
Concordia University’s online MBA in human resource management is a 39 credit hour program accredited by the IACBE. The concentration is made up of 15 credits which include diverse offerings such as alternative dispute resolution, fraud management, and public human resource administration. Students also have the opportunity to complete an internship experience to gain professional work experience. There are no GRE or GMAT scores required for admission and there is no thesis requirement for this online human resource management degree program. Students complete a capstone experience at the end of the program to showcase their skills and abilities.
#14. Belhaven University-Jackson, Mississippi
Online Master of Science in Leadership with Human Resources Concentration
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $10,170
Unique Features
The online master’s in leadership with a human resource concentration is a 42 credit hour program designed for business managers and executives. Courses are offered in eight week terms and follow the guidelines and templates created by the Society of Human Resource Management. Following a biblical framework, courses cover areas such as organizational change, financial analysis, ethical problems, and how to lead productive teams. The human resource concentration contains three additional classes including HR employee relations, HR compensation and benefits, and issues in human resources. The program is open to those with an undergraduate degree in business as well as other fields of study.
#13. Bellevue University-Bellevue, Nebraska
Master of Science in Human Resource Strategic Management Degree
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $10,530
Unique Features
Bellevue University offers an accredited online master’s in human resource strategic management designed to prepare students to become partners with executives and departments within their organization. Students develop the ability to utilize analytics to promote positive changes that can impact an organization’s investments and human capital. The program follows a cohort format and complete courses one at a time in a specified order. A capstone project is the final component of the program, allowing students to develop a strategic plan for an HR department.
#12. Touro University Worldwide-Los Alamitos, California
MS in Human Resource Management
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $9,000
Unique Features
Working HR professionals will be impressed with the affordable online master’s in human resource management from Touro University Worldwide. Designed specifically for those with experience in the field, the curriculum focuses on real world learning and application in the workplace. The program is comprised of 12 courses which includes a capstone experience taken in the final semester of study. Course content features the most current information available and is constantly being updated. Coursework covers areas such as compliance, strategy, training, and ethics. Most students can complete the program in less than two years.
#11. Concordia University-Saint Paul-Saint Paul, Minnesota
Master of Arts in Human Resource Management
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $8,550
Unique Features
Concordia University in Saint Paul offers a 36 credit hour online master’s in human resource management for students who need flexibility in their graduate program. The program fully aligns with the standards set forth by the Society for Human Resource Management’s HR Curriculum Guidebook and Templates. This 36 credit hour program features seven week courses covering everything from human resource leadership to financial management skills. CSP has an excellent employment rate for graduates.
#10. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota-Winona, Minnesota
M.A. in Human Resource Management
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $9,180
Unique Features
The online master’s in human resource management at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota is a two year program with six different start times throughout the year. This 39 credit hour top online master’s in human resource management features unique elective offerings such as quantitative methods, multicultural perspectives, and creative problem solving. Students complete a capstone course in which students demonstrate their skills and knowledge in a final project while they begin the certification process for the Senior Professional in Human Resources exam.
#9. Removed by Editor
#8. California Intercontinental University-Irvine, California
MBA in Organizational Development and Human Resource Management
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $11,280
Unique Features
The online MBA in organizational development and human resource management at California Intercontinental University is a 36 credit hour program designed to be completed in just 18 months. Students review case studies, learn different cultural perspectives, and learn strategic planning processes in this unique online master’s in HRM. Throughout the program, students learn to integrate theories and practices to improve organizational performance, assess challenges and opportunities in their organization, and learn to develop and foster a team environment. Graduates are suited for positions such as human resource manager, training manager, or payroll director.
#7. University of Houston-Clear Lake-Houston, Texas
Master’s in Human Resource Management
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $7,920 in-state; $17,568 out-of-state
Unique Features
The affordable online master’s in HRM at the University of Houston-Clear Lake is recognized by the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM) for its challenging curriculum and coursework. This 36 credit hour program can be completed on a full-time or part-time schedule, with most students able to finish within two years. Students can expect to gain hands-on experience in areas such as general business management, change management, and strategic decision-making and problem-solving. Graduates will have the skills needed to work in positions such as human resource manager, labor relations manager, and training and development manager.
#6. Pittsburg State University-Pittsburg, Kansas
Master’s in Human Resource Development
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $6,678 in-state; $17,510 out-of-state
Unique Features
Pittsburg State University features an online affordable master’s in human resource development with an emphasis in management and consulting. Students can complete the program in about two years attending part-time. This flexible online human resource master’s program gives students the opportunity to complete a thesis, an internship experience, or additional coursework to complete their degree. Students are provided with a graduate level education in employee training, education and development, performance improvement, and organizational development.
#5. Trident University International-Cypress, California
Master of Science in Human Resource Management
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $6,120
Unique Features
The online master’s in human resource management from Trident University is a flexible online program designed for busy students who are working full time while trying to earn their degree. The program follows the standards of the Society for Human Resource Management and uses a case-based approach to learning. This allows students to directly apply their knowledge to the workplace. Throughout the program, students will develop an understanding of the HRM field, learn good business practice, align HR policy to strategic organizational goals, and learn from faculty with experience in the field.
#4. The University of Texas at Tyler-Tyler, Texas
Human Resource Development MS Degree (Online)
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $5,850 in-state; $14,328 out-of-state
Unique Features
The University of Texas at Tyler offers an affordable online master’s in human resources available through the College of Business and Technology. This self-paced online master’s in human resource development does not require a thesis, but engages students instead through coursework, research, and projects. Students are prepared to advance in their career or enter a doctoral program in human resource development. Faculty are experts in the field and provide individualized support to students both in person and online.
#3. Briar Cliff University-Sioux City, Iowa
Online Master of Arts in Human Resource Management
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $9,450
Unique Features
The affordable online master’s in human resource management at Briar Cliff University is an SHRM approved program with convenient online courses. This 35 credit hour program has multiple start dates throughout the year to allow students to begin the program when it is most convenient. Students have the opportunity to complete a thesis or take an extra elective course, depending on their professional needs. Faculty are experienced in the field and make themselves available through email, telephone, and video chat. A liberal transfer credit policy allows students to transfer in up to nine credits of graduate coursework, saving both time and money.
#2. Charleston Southern University-Charleston, South Carolina
Master of Science in Human Resource Management (HRM)
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $7,500
Unique Features
Charleston Southern University offers an online master’s in HRM designed for working professionals who want to advance their career. Courses are offered online and during the evening when it is most convenient. This 33 credit hour program is comprised of 11 courses. By the end of the program students are positioned to successfully pass industry certification exams. Students learn how to apply concepts within their own organizations and understand the importance of the HRM function.
#1. Fitchburg State University-Fitchburg, Massachusetts
Master of Business Administration in Human Resources Management (Online)
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $3,186
Unique Features
Fitchburg State University offers the most affordable online master’s in human resource management on our list. This 30 credit hour program is taught by the same experienced faculty who teach the traditional HRM program. Students complete 18 credits of advanced core requirements, nine credits of HR management courses, and three credits of electives. Courses emphasize participatory learning which includes group discussion, projects, and learning groups. Students can complete this affordable online master’s from this small college in about 12 months of study.
Related Articles:
- 20 Best Master’s in Human Resources (Campus-based)
- The 25 Best Human Resources Blogs
- Top 50 Best Online Master’s in HR Degree Programs (MSHR)
- Top 10 PhD Human Resources Online
- 25 Best Online Human Resources Degree Programs (Bachelor’s)
- 50 Most Affordable MBA Human Resources Degree Programs 2022
- What is a Process Audit?
