HR Master’s Programs

Are you looking for the best master’s degree for HR professionals? We created this ranking of the top 20 best master’s in human resources programs to showcase some of the best in the nation.

There is a strong need for qualified and highly skilled human resources professionals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for human resources managers is expected to increase by seven percent. Through 2031. And it is projected that an additional 16,300 openings for HR managers are expected each year over the next decade. Businesses and organizations need human resource professionals to:

• Talent Acquisition
• Handle staffing issues such as dispute resolution and disciplinary procedures
• Coordinate and supervise the work of employees
• Oversee and plan benefits plans
• Consult with other HR professionals on best practices
• Assist with strategic planning

Entry-level work in HR can be found with a bachelor’s degree. However, for leadership and management roles, individuals need a graduate degree in human resources. Fortunately, there are many such HR programs around the country. This post will highlight the best HR gradaute programs in the US.

Featured Programs

HR Master’s Programs Methodology

We started our school search to find grad schools for human resources on College Navigator. This online tool is provided by the National Center for Educational Statistics. First, we listed all schools offering a master’s in human resources in a traditional on-campus format. Then, we narrowed our focus to include programs that align with the guidelines set by the Society for Human Resource Management. We then compared:

• Student-to-Faculty Ratios
• Average Graduate Tuition Rates
• Graduation Rates

Where there are ties, we favored the school with the lower average graduate tuition rate. Please note that the tuition rates listed are based on in-state costs per academic year. The costs for non-residents or for online master’s human resources degree students may differ. From our list, we created a rating system, as seen below. And this is how we calculated the top universities for master’s in HR.

Student-to-Faculty Ratio

• 10:1 or less= 5 Points
• 11:1 to 15:1= 3 Points
• Greater than 15:1= 1 Point

Average Graduate Tuition Rate

• Less than $10,000 per year= 5 Points
• $10,000 to $15,000 per year= 3 Points
• More than $15,000 per year= 1 Point

Overall Graduation Rate

• Less than 50%= 1 Point
• Between 50% and 75%= 3 Points
• Greater than 75%= 5 Points

Related Resource: What is Workforce Diversity?

SUMMARY RANKING OF THE TOP 10 BEST MASTER’S IN HUMAN RESOURCES:

1. Purdue University
2. Texas A&M University
3. New York University
4. Concordia University
5. Florida International University
6. University of Texas at Arlington
7. Azusa Pacific University
8. Villanova University
9. Columbus State University
10. University of Tennessee Knoxville

Ranking The Best HR Master’s Programs in the US

#20 – Roosevelt University – Chicago, Illinois

Master of Science, Human Resource Management (MSHRM)

For more information: Roosevelt University

Student to Faculty Ratio: 11:1

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $21,275

Overall Graduation Rate: 40%

Master’s in Human Resources Score: 5

Roosevelt University offers a flexible Master of Science in human resource management. The program is provided through the Walter E. Heller College of Business. And it is ideal for those planning to change careers or advance their current roles. Courses are taught by expert faculty who are fully invested in student success. And the small class size promotes meaningful interactions between students and faculty. 

Both full and part-time program options are available. Courses are typically offered during the evenings or on the weekends. Roosevelt boasts the third most diverse student body in the Midwest. As a result, students benefit from unique perspectives and different viewpoints. This creates a well-rounded college experience for students in this human resource management program.

Related Resource: What is a Talent Acquisition Specialist?

#19 –DePaul University – Chicago, Illinois

Master of Science (MS) in Human Resources

For more information: DePaul University

Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $17,951

Overall Graduation Rate: 70%

Master’s in Human Resources Score: 5

DePaul University offers one of the best Master of Science in human resource programs. This degree will train human resource professionals to shape the workplace of the future. And it provides the knowledge needed to manage core HR functions for the modern workforce. Students will gain professional skills in areas that include:

• Talent Management and Recruitment
• Workforce Training Programs
• Benefits and Compensation

Human resources master’s degree students will study and work in the heart of Chicago’s business district. This means they can take advantage of opportunities with organizations like Aon and Motorola. New students are accepted for admission at the start of each enrollment quarter.

Related Resource: Online Masters in HR No GRE or GMAT Required

#18 – Eastern Michigan University – Ypsilanti, Michigan

Master of Science in Human Resources and Organizational Development

For more information: Eastern Michigan University

Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $16,562

Overall Graduation Rate: 48%

Master’s in Human Resources Score: 5

Eastern Michigan University offers an affordable MS in HR and Organizational Development. This is a partially online master’s in human resource program for both full and part-time students. Courses are held during the evening hours or online (or a mix of both). So it’s ideal for those who need flexible scheduling. The 30-credit hour curriculum offers a variety of elective courses, including:

• Benefits Administration
• Building Continuous Improvement Teams
• International Human Resource Management

All students complete either a practicum or a thesis depending on their professional goals. The Society for Human Resource Management at EMU also has an award-winning student chapter. This organization keeps students informed of changes in the field. And it facilitates networking and professional opportunities. Applicants should have at least a 2.75 cumulative undergraduate GPA from an accredited institution. In addition, they will need to submit a resume for consideration.

#17 – Houston Baptist University – Houston, Texas

Master of Science in Human Resources Management

Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $11,000

Overall Graduation Rate: 44%

Master’s in Human Resources Score: 5

Houston Baptist University has the next best value Master of Science in human resources management program. It is offered through the College of Business. And it is delivered from a strategic business perspective. Students will gain a global view of the functions of human resource managers. And they will learn the core processes of business organizations and HRM theories. This can help them to improve performance within their organizations. Some of the core requirements include:

• Compensation and Benefits
• Training and Development
• Transformational Leadership and Ethics

This human resources management program fully aligns with the SHRM HR Curriculum Guidebook.

#16 – The Pennsylvania State University – University Park, Pennsylvania

Masters of Science in HR and Employment Relations

For more information: Penn State University

Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $23,189

Overall Graduation Rate: 72%

Master’s in Human Resources Score: 7

The School of Labor and Employment Relations at Penn State offers an MS in human resources and employment relations. In addition to the base program, students can choose from options in either: 

• Human Resources
• Employment Relations

This MS in human resources program is practitioner-based. Students are involved in hands-on projects and activities. And this helps them to build practical and professional skills. In addition, students can choose to complete a capstone or thesis track, depending on their goals. New students are admitted each fall semester.

#15 – Loyola University – Chicago, Illinois

Master of Science in Human Resources (MSHR)

For more information: Loyola University – Chicago

Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $18,990

Overall Graduation Rate: 72%

Master’s in Human Resources Score: 7

Loyola University Chicago features one of the best human resources master’s programs in our ranking. It is offered through the Quinlan School of Business. This program provides students with analytical, team, and communication skills. The curriculum aligns with SHRM guidelines. And graduates are prepared to sit for SHRM professional certifications.

The broad curriculum was designed to prepare students for a variety of HR roles. Courses emphasize ethical and values-based leadership. Students with at least three years of HR experience take 12 courses to complete their human resources degree. Students without experience have an added internship component. This helps them to gain hands-on training and skill development. Both full and part-time program options are available for this HR master’s program.

#14 – Bridgewater College – Bridgewater, Virginia

Master of Science in Human Resource Management

Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $18,544

Overall Graduation Rate: 62%

Master’s in Human Resources Score: 7

Bridgewater College offers an affordable human resource management MS. It is delivered through the Department of Economics and Business Administration. Students will develop the skills needed to become innovative and strategic HR partners. The courses are SHRM aligned and cover relevant areas like:

• Human Resource Analytics
• Consulting
• Organizational Excellence

A capstone course allows students to specialize in their human resources skills. They will choose from an area like health care or manufacturing. Courses are taught by faculty who have careers in HR and understand the industry. Bridgewater has an active affiliation with the local SHRM chapter. And this provides students with valuable networking opportunities.

#13 – University of Minnesota – Minneapolis, Minnesota

Master of Arts in Human Resource Management and Industrial Relations

For more information: University of Minnesota

Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $17,844

Overall Graduation Rate: 84%

Master’s in Human Resources Score: 7

The University of Minnesota features a master’s in human resource industrial relations. This budget-friendly human resources degree is offered through the Carlson School of Management. Both full-time and part-time program options are available. The contemporary curriculum gives students the skills needed to address modern HR challenges. A few course offerings include:

• Organizational Behavior Foundations of High-Impact
• Staffing, Training, and Development
• Using Data and Metrics in HRIR

Students can participate in the Graduate Society of Human Resources Leaders. This professional organization provides students with networking and continuing education opportunities. These experiences make UM’s degree one of the best HR master programs on the list.

#12 – University of Rhode Island – Kingston, Rhode Island

Labor Relations and Human Resources M.S.

Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $14,454

Overall Graduation Rate: 70%

Master’s in Human Resources Score: 7

The University of Rhode Island features a specialized HR master’s program focused on labor relations and employment law in HR. This is a 30-credit hour, multidisciplinary program. And it is an excellent fit for students who work in employment law, labor relations, or government agencies. Courses are offered at the Kingston and Providence campus locations on evenings and weekends. So this flexible program accommodates working HR professionals. Core courses for this human resources graduate program include:

• Labor Relations and HR
• Work, Employment, and Society
• Labor and Employment Law

Both full and part-time options are available for this labor relations HR program. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and new students are admitted for the fall and spring semesters. Full-time students can complete their degrees in two years.

#11 – University of Kentucky – Lexington, Kentucky

Master of Science in Strategic Human Resource Management and Analytics

Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $12,311

Overall Graduation Rate: 68%

Master’s in Human Resources Score: 7

The University of Kentucky offers a low-cost master’s in strategic HR management and human resource analytics. It’s provided through the Gatton College of Business and Economics. This 11-month program includes foundational and specialized courses in human resources. And it is ideal for HR professionals. The program is academically aligned with the SHRM guidelines. A few of the course offerings in this strategic human resource management program include:

• Human Resource Analytics
• Strategic Human Capital Planning and Integration
• Network Applications in Human Resource Management

Students can choose elective courses that align with their professional goals. The class size for this human resource management program is small. And this promotes individualized faculty attention. Graduates are prepared for exciting professional roles. This includes HR analysts, HR operations managers, and more. 

#10 – University of Tennessee – Knoxville, Tennessee

Master of Science in Management and Human Resource Management

For more information:  University of Tennessee – Knoxville

Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $11,468

Overall Graduation Rate: 72%

Master’s in Human Resources Score: 7

The University of Tennessee-Knoxville features an affordable MS in human resources management. It is offered through the Haslam College of Business. And it is a flexible program with evening courses. This is an excellent choice for HR professionals planning to move into management roles. Students can complete the HR program on a full or part-time basis. Focus areas for this human resource graduate program include:

• Personal Leadership Development
• Business Skills for Managers
• Strategic Human Resource Management

Applicants must submit a resume, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. New students to this human resources management program start in the fall.

#9 – Columbus State University – Columbus, Georgia

Master of Science in Organizational Leadership-Human Resource Management Track

For more information: Columbus State University

Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $6,300

Overall Graduation Rate: 43%

Master’s in Human Resources Score: 7

Columbus State University offers a high-quality master’s in organizational leadership program. And it has a track in human resources management. HR professionals will focus on key areas of management, including:

• Resource planning
• Recruiting and training
• Compensation and benefits
• Performance management and disciplinary processes

The curriculum aligns with the SHRM’s Human Resource Curriculum Guidebook and Templates. Class sizes are small. This allows students to connect with instructors and other HR professionals. Faculty serve as professional mentors focused on their students’ success. Graduates are prepared to sit for industry certification exams, including:

• Professional in HR Exam
• Senior Professional in HR Exam

#8 – Villanova University – Villanova, Pennsylvania

Master of Science in Human Resource Development

For more information: Villanova University

Student to Faculty Ratio: 11:1

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $21,099

Overall Graduation Rate: 91%

Master’s in Human Resources Score: 9

Villanova University offers one of the longest-running graduate human resources programs in the US. This top graduate program in human resource development trains leaders in the field. It is delivered in a flexible, eight-week class format. This allows students to balance their education with other commitments. Several concentrations are available, including:

• Inclusion and Diversity Strategy
• HR Business Partner
• People Analytics and Research
• Organization Development
• HR Leadership

Courses are SHRM and HRCI certified, and students can apply course credits toward recertification. Full-time students can complete this human resource development degree in just two years. That makes it one of the top graduate programs in human resources on our list.

#7 – Azusa Pacific University – Azusa, California

Master of Arts in Management (MAM) Concentration in Human Resource Management

For more information: Azusa Pacific University

Student to Faculty Ratio: 10:1

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $16,571

Overall Graduation Rate: 72%

Master’s in Human Resources Score: 9

Azusa Pacific University offers a Christ-centered MBA. And students can opt for a concentration in human resource management. This is a customizable program that helps develop ethical HR leaders. The human resource management courses can be taken on campus in Azusa. However, students can also complete the work at one of four other regional campus locations. Courses are delivered in short, eight-week terms with six start times a year. Students can build their resumes with experiential learning opportunities. Micro-credentials are offered in a variety of areas, including:

• Ethical Leadership
• Cross-Cultural Management
• Project Management

Micro-credentials can add value to the degree and help boost a resume. In addition, the program is accredited by the Society for Human Resource Management. So students can feel confident they are getting an excellent education. This makes the APU degree one of the best human resource masters programs on our list.

#6 – University of Texas at Arlington – Arlington, Texas

Master of Science in Human Resource Management

Student to Faculty Ratio: 24:1

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $9,015

Overall Graduation Rate: 51%

Master’s in Human Resources Score: 9

The University of Texas Arlington offers one of the best HR programs for entry-level and mid-career HR professionals. Students will earn a master’s in human resource management through the College of Business. This 36-credit hour program utilizes a research-based, practice oriented curriculum. Some of the required courses include:

• Compensation and Reward Systems
• Training and Development
• Human Resource Metrics and Analytics

Both full and part-time program options are available. Students who are not currently working in the field can complete an internship. This will take place with a local firm. Courses are offered during the evening hours. New students are admitted for the fall, spring, and summer terms.

#5 –Florida International University – Miami, Florida

Master of Science in Human Resource Management

For more information: Florida International University

Student to Faculty Ratio: 24:1

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $8,912

Overall Graduation Rate: 67%

Master’s in Human Resources Score: 9

Florida International University offers a low-cost master’s in human resource management. This program prepares students to manage people effectively in global organizations. Students take courses on the weekends, allowing them to continue working their regular jobs. Full-time students can earn their degrees in one year, and part-time students can finish in two years. 

The program is developed and taught by industry experts. And students develop the skills needed for success in HR roles. The curriculum emphasizes practical applications using experiential exercises and case studies. Graduates of FIU are prepared for senior HR roles and specialized positions in:

• Labor Relations
• Compensation and Benefits
• Training and Development

#4 – Concordia University – St. Paul, Minnesota

Master of Arts in Human Resource Management

For more information: Concordia University – St. Paul

Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $8,550

Overall Graduation Rate: 53%

Master’s in Human Resources Score: 9

Concordia University St. Paul features an affordable human resource management master’s degree. It is offered through the school’s College of Business and Technology. The program focuses on strategic partnerships within an organization. Students will develop soft skills in leadership, innovation, and strategic thinking. Some of the core courses include:

• Strategic HR and Management
• Human Resources Leadership and Ethics
• Recruitment, Selection, and Retention

Courses must be completed in sequential order, with each course building on the one before it. In addition, all students complete an HR Action Research at Work capstone course. In this course, students leverage the skills they have learned in the program. And they will create a solution to improve organizational effectiveness.

#3 – New York University – New York, New York

MS in Human Resource Management and Development (HRMD)

For more information: New York University

Student to Faculty Ratio: 8:1

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $35,982

Overall Graduation Rate: 87%

Master’s in Human Resources Score: 11

New York University offers a human resource management and development master’s program. This high-quality HR program features a cutting-edge curriculum. And it is delivered through the School of Professional Studies. Four concentration areas are available, including:

• Human Capital Management
• Global Talent Management
• Organizational Effectiveness
• Learning, Development, and Executive Coaching

Each concentration area comprises eight core courses and one elective. Students can also choose to complete an internship experience to gain additional professional training. Capstone options include a thesis or a special project in applied human resource strategies.

#2 – Texas A&M University – College Station, Texas

MS in Human Resource Management

For more information: Texas A&M University

Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $6,885

Overall Graduation Rate: 83%

Master’s in Human Resources Score: 11

Texas A&M University features a high-value master’s in human resource management. It is offered through the Mays Business School. And it is focused on professional development and strategic thinking. Students complete specialized HRM coursework. And they develop an understanding of key accounting, marketing, and operations skills. Some of the course offerings include:

• Organizational Change and Development
• Organizational Behavior
• Organizational Staffing

All students complete a required professional internship during the summer. This allows them to develop their skills and gain hands-on experience. In addition, HRM students can take an active role in the school’s chapter of the SHRM. There, they can participate in networking opportunities with other HR professionals. Full-time students can complete the degree in just 16 months.

#1 – Purdue University – West Lafayette, Indiana

MS in Human Resource Management

For more information: Purdue University

Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $9,918

Overall Graduation Rate: 83%

Master’s in Human Resources Score: 13

Our top choice for the best master’s in human resource management is offered at Purdue University. This comprehensive program is delivered through the School of Management. And it helps students become focused, savvy business leaders. A few course offerings include:

• Launching Global Leaders
• Human Capital Consulting
• Human Resource Systems

Students participate in real-world projects and experiential learning opportunities. This helps them to easily apply classroom knowledge to the workplace. Students can participate in additional opportunities like case competitions and consulting projects. These take place through the Human Capital Consulting Initiative. Full-time students can complete the degree in just 18 months.

Related Resource: Entry-Level HR Jobs

What about Online Master’s in Human Resources Programs?

Many of the programs on this list are highly flexible. For example, several human resources programs offer weekend and evening classes. These are ideal for those who have busy lives. But they are only practical if you live near the school. Some students would love to pursue an HR graduate degree. However, there may be no flexible programs available where they live. This is where online human resources programs can help. 

Online master’s in human resources are an excellent way for busy working professionals to increase their earning power. Such programs are affordable and plentiful. And we have listed many of them in our article on the Best Affordable Online Master in Human Resource Management article. But to give prospective students an idea of what is available, we will list a few available programs.

Online Master’s in Human Resources Programs

Florida Institute of Technology

Florida Tech offers an excellent online master’s in human resources program. This program prepares students to tackle challenges facing HR managers. Courses are taught by the same experienced faculty that teach on campus. And students earn the same degree. 

University of Massachusetts Global

UMass Global offers a comprehensive master’s in human resources online. This online master’s in human resources program gives students all the tools they need to lead a diverse workforce. Students complete required and elective coursework. And they complete a practical HR Capstone project.

Briar Cliff University

Briar Cliff University offers a top-rated master’s in human resources program. The curriculum is approved by the SHRM. So it aligns with best practices and academic guidelines. Moreover, this online online master’s in human resources can be completed in just five semesters.

University of Scranton

The University of Scranton offers an affordable online master’s in human resources management. This program follows the SHRM guidelines. Students in this online master’s in human resources learn best practices and leadership skills for the modern workplace. 

By: HRMBA Staff