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Online Master’s in Human Resources MS in HR Management
Program Overview Why get a master’s in human resource management?
Technology, multigenerational workforces and the rapidly changing economic landscape are evolving the role that human resource professionals play in the bigger picture of business operations.
Our online Master of Science (MS) in Human Resource Management program is designed to equip human resource professionals with the creative problem-solving skills, data-driven decision-making, strategic management skills, empathy and ethics they need to forge a path for themselves and the organizations they represent.
Skills you'll learn:
- Human resource solutions
- Strategies to support organizational goals
- Risk management and ethical practice
- Appreciation for diversity of teams
- Change management and collaboration
Courses & Curriculum Online HR management courses for growing professionals
Gain the business acumen and industry knowledge and technical skills necessary to support an organization's vision, mission and goals. In the master's in human resources management at SNHU, you'll take an integrated approach to developing relevant HR expertise, focusing on communication and negotiation skills, critical legal and ethical principles, strategic HR program development, and the global and cultural context of HR today.
The Master of Science curriculum and outcomes of the graduate program were developed in accordance with the guidelines set forth by the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM) competencies and master's degree curriculum standards.
Online human resource management courses
In your major courses, you'll explore topics like labor relations and negotiations, talent acquisition and development strategies, ethical and legal problem solving, workforce planning and effective models of human resource service delivery.
Master human resources without a business undergrad
Don't have a business background? No worries – this HR program is built to support students with or without prior business experience and education.
For students without a business-related undergraduate degree, this program may begin with a Business Foundations course. This course is designed to help you to understand terminology and topics that can set you up for success in the master's in human resources program.
Courses may include:
Managing Through Communication
Course ID:
MGT 550
Learn how to manage people and organizations effectively using communication as a tool. Enhance skills and techniques in motivating, leading change, developing relationships and team building through effective communication of core visions, active listening and providing feedback. Develop strategic management and communication skills that positively affect stakeholder behavior. Gain comprehensive, hands-on-experience in constructing documents and presentations that inform, persuade and influence the intended audience to achieve strategic goals.
Strategic Human Resource Management
Course ID:
OL 600
Examine key regulatory procedures and human resource requirements as they relate to applications in organizations. Analyze the strategic role of the human resource manager in performing functions of recruitment, hiring, training, career development and other contemporary processes within the organizational setting. Study concepts aligned with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) Body of Competency and Knowledge (BoCK).
Total Rewards
Course ID:
OL 620
This course examines the compensation and benefits functions within the organizational structure and ways they impact the management function. Topics include job analysis, surveys, wage scales, incentives, benefits, HRIS systems and pay delivery administration. Students design a compensation and benefits program as a course outcome.
Law, Ethics, and Politics in HR
Course ID:
OL 645
This course contends with the question, "Is legal compliance synonymous with ethical behavior in HR?" The interrelationship of legal governance, ethical practice, and political influence in human relations management are a central focus of the course. Students will develop relevant expertise in employment law and HR ethics by actively applying their knowledge to vexing issues facing HR professionals today. Topics related to employment law, workplace health, safety, and security, corporate social responsibility, and ethical guidelines and conduct for HR professionals will be addressed in the course.
Talent Development and Workforce Planning
Course ID:
OL 655
Organizations are engaged in continual and dynamic changes in today's business environment, increasing the demand for human resource professionals to leverage strategies to recruit, train, develop, and support a diverse workforce. This course integrates advanced talent management and development skills with strategic workforce planning, asking students to analyze gaps in employee competencies, plan strategic talent development strategies, and forecast workforce needs. Issues such as employee engagement, creating an employment brand, supporting talent through career development, and creating effective succession plans will be emphasized.
Leading Change
Course ID:
OL 663
This course focuses on transforming organizations by introducing Kotter's eight processes by which leaders effect change. Because organizations, leaders, and employees differ, various techniques and strategies are examined. The course integrates Kotter's processes for leading change, organizational development and transformation theory and practice, and analysis of an organization which has effected systematic change. The use of work teams as a key change factor will have special emphasis.
Human Resource Information Systems
Course ID:
OL 667
Information systems and data management are essential components of an effective human resource management plan. This course introduces students to the process for researching information systems technology, conducting needs assessments of the organization, selecting an appropriate HR information system (HRIS), and integrating the system effectively. Additionally, a large focus of the course is on the analysis, use, and protection of data in an HRIS. The goal of this course is to provide the necessary skills for students to effectively research, integrate, and leverage various HR information systems for a variety of purposes in and beyond the course.
Human Resources in Global Contexts
Course ID:
OL 668
Organizations increasingly rely on an international workforce and global markets to succeed. As the workforce has become increasingly diverse, cultural competence is a necessary component of any HR strategy. This course situates strategic human resource management in the global stage, focusing on a wide range of issues related to global markets, global security, managing an international workforce, effective cross-cultural management and communication, and diversity in the workplace. The emphasis is placed on how businesses can become more competitive by leveraging an effective HR plan for diversity and international business.
Human Resource Management Capstone
Course ID:
OL 751
This capstone course is the culminating experience for the M.S. in Human Resource Management program. The aim of the capstone is to assess students' ability to synthesize and integrate the knowledge and skills they have developed throughout their coursework, rather than introducing new concepts. This course is structured to support student success in fulfilling program requirements.
Business Research
Course ID:
QSO 500
This course presents an overview of the various primary and secondary research methodologies used in the business world and the application of statistical techniques to those strategies. The focus of this course is the design and execution of a practical, primary research. It is recommended that this course be one of the first three taken in degree programs in which it is required.
Negotiation/Advocacy in the Workplace
Course ID:
WCM 510
This course introduces the processes and practice of negotiating and advocating effectively in settings where continuation and strengthening of the relationship matter. Course content will include the uses, strengths, and weaknesses of distributive and integrative bargaining; the sources and uses of power in negotiation; and gender and cultural influences on negotiation style and practice.
Managing Difficult Conversations at Work
Course ID:
WCM 620
The art and practice of dialogue building is the act of engaging conflict effectively and transforming difficult conversations into better decisions, healthier work relationships, and stronger organizations. This course examines approaches for de-escalating conflict conversations, choosing if and when to intervene, tapping the creative potential in conflict, and creating workplace environments that foster constructive conflict engagement.
Visit the course catalog to view the full MS in Human Resource Management curriculum.
PC (Windows OS) Technical Requirements
| Component Type | PC (Windows OS) |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Currently supported operating system from Microsoft. |
| Memory (RAM) | 8GB or higher |
| Hard Drive | 100GB or higher |
| Antivirus Software | Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
| SNHU Purchase Programs | Visit Dell |
| Internet/ Bandwidth | 5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100ms Latency |
Apple (Mac OS) Technical Requirements
| Component Type | Apple (Mac OS) |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Currently supported operating system from Apple. |
| Memory (RAM) | 8GB or higher |
| Hard Drive | 100GB or higher |
| Antivirus Software | Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
| SNHU Purchase Programs | Visit Apple |
| Internet/ Bandwidth | 5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100ms Latency |
Additional Information:
- Laptop or desktop? Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.
- Note: Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device. SNHU does, however, have an affordable laptop option that it recommends: Dell Latitude 3301 with Windows 10.
- Office 365 Pro Plus is available free of charge to all SNHU students and faculty. The Office suite will remain free while you are a student at SNHU. Upon graduation you may convert to a paid subscription if you wish. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion. Review system requirements for Microsoft 365 plans for business, education and government.
- Antivirus software: Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.
Licensure and Certification Disclosures
SNHU has provided additional information for programs that educationally prepare students for professional licensure or certification. Learn more about what that means for your program on our licensure and certification disclosure page.
Aligned with professional HR standards
The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) has acknowledged that SNHU's MS in Human Resources Management is aligned to the Society for Human Resource Management's Body of Applied Skills & Knowledge™ (SHRM BASK™) competencies.
Developed through a series of large-scale research studies, the SHRM BASK incorporates global HR viewpoints to collectively establish a grouping of critical HR competencies and content areas.
Choose to go further and establish yourself as a globally recognized human resource expert by earning the new standard in HR certification:
- SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP™)
- SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP™)
These professional certifications can open doors for professional advancement, serve to harmonize standards with changing expectations and signal to employers advanced professional development.
And why would you want to earn SHRM certification? According to the organization, it's recognized across industries, and it's offered by the world's largest HR membership organization.2 With many employers seeking SHRM credentials each month, you'll likely want to enroll in a HR program that can set you up for success with SHRM.
Beyond completing education requirements for certification, you'll also complete a capstone project, which provides employers with an example of the skills you've developed throughout your online master's in human resources program. The course is structured to support student success in fulfilling program requirements.
Apply for free in minutes
Our no-commitment application can help you decide if SNHU is the right college for you and your career goals. Apply up until 2 days before the term starts!
Upcoming term starts: Aug. 25, 2025 | Nov. 10, 2025
Next term starts:
June 9, 2025
Online Student Experience What’s it like going to SNHU?
Attending college online at SNHU can be a life-changing experience. In fact, 91.6% of online students would recommend SNHU according to a 2024 survey with 8,000+ respondents.
What to expect:
10-week terms
Learn around your schedule
24/7 online support
What does an online course look like?
You’ll take your courses within SNHU’s Brightspace platform. This is where you’ll find your:
- Schedule of weekly assignments
- Discussion boards
- Grades
- Instructor announcements
What support services are available?
- Chat with your advisors
Get hands-on help from dedicated academic and career advisors. - Drop in for tutoring
Work with a tutor, any time of the day or night – no appointment necessary. - Learn from industry professionals
Instructors lead discussions and offer guidance – and they’re just an email away. - Use the online library
Access 600,000+ resources or chat with a librarian 24/7. - Reach out for accessibility help
Receive accommodations as an eligible student with disabilities. - Focus on your well-being
Connect with professionals to improve your health and wellness.
Gain insight from seasoned HR professionals
Our faculty members bring years of HR experience to the online classroom. Leveraging their experience in human resources management, they connect theoretical concepts with real-life situations, allowing you to understand how scenarios play out in real organizations.
Featured Faculty
Dr. Dean Gualco
Dr. Dean Gualco has served as an HR director for two California cities, the Governor of California and at the University of California, in addition to serving as a city library director. Gualco is also the author of 11 books, the last titled The Perfect Country: the Traits and Characteristics of a Good and Decent People, and has taught at universities throughout the world for over 20 years.
Position
Adjunct Faculty Member
Joined SNHU
2018
Education
- EdD from University of the Pacific
- MPA from University of Southern California
- MBA from Golden Gate University
Deborah Gogliettino
With over two decades of teaching experience in higher education and 25 years of leadership in human resources at the C-suite level, Deborah Gogliettino brings a wealth of knowledge to the HR faculty at SNHU. Credentialed in executive coaching, Gogliettino enjoys mentoring emerging leaders. She also holds the designation of Senior Professional in Human Resources® (SPHR) from Human Resource Certification Institute® and has written about the value of continuous learning for the organization.
Position
Associate Dean, Human Resources
Joined SNHU
2015
Education
- Master of Arts in Administration from Western Connecticut State University
- Master of Arts in Leadership from Grand Canyon University
"I entered human resources not only to solve problems and creative innovative solutions, but to play an influential role in a company's strategy. That's the fun of HR."
Why SNHU?
At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 400,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. Our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. Plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities.
Recently, SNHU has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education:
- U.S. News & World Report
Named SNHU the 2024 Most Innovative University in the North - The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA)
Awarded SNHU the 21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology - Google.org
Gave SNHU a $1 million grant to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth
Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 180,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.
Admission Applying to SNHU is fast and free
No application fee. No test scores. And no college essay. Just a simple form with basic information. It’s another way SNHU helps you reach your goals sooner.
All it takes is 3 simple steps
Step 1: Complete the online application – it only takes minutes.
It's easy, fast and free.
Step 2: Submit additional forms.
Whether you're applying for an undergraduate or graduate degree, you’ll fill out a form to verify your previous education experience. As part of our admissions process, we'll help you request transcripts from your previous school(s) to see if you can transfer any credits into your SNHU program! (Also for free!)
Step 3: Make your decision.
After reviewing your official evaluation, you can decide if SNHU is right for you! If you choose to enroll, just pick your start date and get ready for classes to begin.
Talk to an admission counselor: 888.327.SNHU | enroll@snhu.edu
Accreditations
SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). The university also carries specialized accreditations for some programs.
This program and its concentrations are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Student achievement data can be found on the ACBSP accreditation page.
Tuition Cost & Savings College can be more affordable than you think
As a nonprofit university, SNHU offers some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country. And when you work with our Financial Services team, we'll explore ways to help you save even more on your education – and customize a payment plan that works for you.
Online graduate tuition
Student
Cost per credit
Cost per course
Cost for 36-credit degree*
Full- and part-time students
$637
$1,911
$22,932
Active-duty military and spouses | Full- and part-time students**
$470
$1,410
$16,920
*before previously earned credits are applied
Tuition rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually.
**Note: Students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.
Additional costs: Course materials vary by course.
Transfer credits and lower your cost by:
$1,911 $3,822 $5,733 $7,644If 3 of your prior learning credits ($637/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $17,199
If 6 of your prior learning credits ($637/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $15,288
If 9 of your prior learning credits ($637/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $13,377
If 12 of your prior learning credits ($637/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $11,466
How we estimate your tuition cost:
We look at the cost per credit multiplied by the number of credits you need to earn for a master's degree. Most master's degrees require 36 credits. SNHU allows you to transfer in up to 12 credits, requiring a minimum of 24 credits to be taken at SNHU. This is only a tuition estimator and doesn't account for other fees that may be associated with your program of choice.
Ways to save on online tuition
Transfer your credits
Transfer credits toward your master's degree program at SNHU. If you’ve taken one course or many, we’ll evaluate them for you.
Apply for financial aid
Fill out the FAFSA to see if you’re eligible for grants or work-study. (You could also be offered loans, though you’ll have to pay those back later.)
Military discounts and credit
Earn credits in leadership, technology and more – while taking advantage of an online graduate tuition discount for active-duty service members and spouses.
Explore scholarships
Getting free money for college – from SNHU or an outside organization – could help you save hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Earn credit for exams and certificates
Bring in credits from popular options like CLEP, Sophia Learning, Google and other common credit for prior learning (CPL) experiences.
Tuition Reimbursement
Learn how you can save money with tuition reimbursement from your employer.
Benefit from your employer
Receive an online tuition discount if your organization has partnered with SNHU for educational benefits. See if your organization partners with us.
Career Outlook What can I do with a master’s in human resources?
By enrolling in the master's in human resource management program, you can equip yourself with the knowledge and skills needed to enter management-level positions in human resources and related business professions.
As an HR leader, you'll work to align the employee experience with organizational goals – helping individuals and the business grow. In a human resource manager role, you might gather and analyze business data, establish efficient operational processes, develop hiring strategies, design talent development strategies, lead equity and diversity initiatives and beyond.
Industries
As an HR manager, you could find yourself working in almost any industry. Here are a few:
Educational Services
Help train educators and administrators to make positive impact on education systems and services.
Employment Services
Help people discover their passions, find their careers or advance in their current careers.
Finance and Insurance
Promote team-building, collaboration, and better communication for teams large and small.
Government
Help strategize ways to help people work together more efficiently so they can better serve communities.
Healthcare and Social Assistance
Make an impact in communities and healthcare setting by helping to hire, manage and train staff.
Companies and Enterprises
Be "the people person" at large-scale and enterprise companies, overseeing hiring and training programs.
$136,350
Median annual pay for HR managers as of May 2023, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.1
$125,040
Median annual pay for training and development managers as of May 2023, according to the BLS.1
Understanding the numbers
When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors—like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections are based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data, not on SNHU graduate outcomes, and do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.
What SNHU students are saying
All the professors seemed to be deeply involved in what they were teaching: They knew what they were teaching, they liked what they were teaching, and they were involved in the field in some way.
Vanessa R. Harvey ‘21
Frequently Asked Questions
Your questions, answered
Is a master's degree in human resources worth it?
If you have a passion for helping lead an organization in the right direction, then yes.
With a master’s in human resource management, you’ll learn to approach HR initiatives from a strategic and data-driven perspective and understand how HR impacts organizations on every level.
Many human resources jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree in human resources or related field, with leadership positions more often requiring a master’s degree. Earning a master’s in human resources online can help you stand out when applying for new roles or promotions.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), jobs opportunities for human resources managers are projected to grow 5% through 2032, as new companies form and existing organizations work to adhere to changing and complex employment laws and regulations.1
The benefits of earning your master's in human resource management go beyond your career. For Nancy Glasheen, a current student pursuing her MS in Human Resources Management, this degree has opened doors within the SNHU community. "The open doors for me included allowing for a bigger identity footprint with other students, the SNHU Alumni community, and exposure to the National Society for Leadership and Success."
How much can you make with a master's in human resources?
In 2023, the median annual wage for human resources managers was $136,350, with the highest 10% earning more than $239,200, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).1
In addition to HR manager roles, you can also be well compensated as a training and development manager. The BLS notes the annual median wage in 2023 as $125,040, with the top 10% earning more than $220,060.1
Salaries for human resources jobs can vary based on the industry or organization you’re working in, but earning a master’s degree can help boost your salary potential overall.
In 2023, master’s degree holders’ median weekly earnings were approximately 16% higher than bachelor’s degree holders and approximately 64% higher than associate degree holders, according to BLS.1
Is HR a good career path?
While human resources was once considered a mostly administrative role with a focus on payroll and benefits, HR professionals today are more often recognized as strategic partners and valued members of company leadership.
Changes in technology, a multigenerational workforce and a rapidly changing economic landscape have all contributed to the evolving role of human resources professionals.
In addition to overseeing the HR department and serving as a key connection between employees and upper management, today’s human resources managers often have many other roles. These roles include managing compensation and benefits, overseeing talent development and training programs, and guiding overall employee wellness and support.
Plus, with an HR degree, you have the potential to go anywhere you want to go. That includes:
- Educational services – state, local and private
- Employment services
- Finance and insurance
- Government
- Healthcare and social assistance
- Management of companies and enterprises
- Manufacturing
- Professional, scientific and technical services
Human resources leaders are also key to an organization’s ability to recruit and retain key personnel who contribute to moving the organization forward in today’s evolving workforce.
“HR professionals are partners with the business,” said Deborah Gogliettino, SNHU’s lead faculty for human resources. “That has tremendous value for the organization and for the person doing the job.”
What can I do with a master's in human resources?
Human resources professionals are needed across nearly every industry and organization. Job opportunities for HR workers are available in large corporations, small businesses, nonprofits and government agencies at the federal, state and local level.
Some human resources jobs1 you may explore include:
- Director of human resources: Plan, direct and coordinate the human resources functions of an organization, including recruitment, hiring and on-boarding of new employees. Consult with top executives on strategic planning and lead a team of human resources professionals.
- Management consultant: Propose ways to improve an organization’s efficiency, including how to make organizations more profitable and how to improve an organization’s recruitment and talent development efforts to boost employee retention and reduce costs.
- Compensation and benefits consultant: Lead an organization’s pay and benefits structure, choose and manage outside benefits partners and ensure that pay and benefits plans comply with federal and state regulations.
- Risk manager: Work to limit or offset an organization’s chance of financial loss or legal challenges by creating and enforcing policies that reduce the risk of financial abuse, discriminatory practices, occupational health and safety violations, and employee misconduct.
- Recruiter: Find, screen and interview applicants for job openings in an organization, and work with potential employees throughout the hiring and on-boarding process.
- Operational researcher: Help organizations identify and solve problems and make better, data-driven decisions in areas such as business, logistics, healthcare and other fields.
What is the SHRM certification?
The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) offers two professional certifications for human resources leaders: the SHRM - Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) and SHRM - Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP).
According to SHRM, both certifications directly link to on-the-job scenarios faced by HR professionals.2 Earning a certification indicates a high level of industry knowledge and skills and demonstrates that you can apply this knowledge on the job. SHRM certified human resources professionals are considered experts in the HR field and are highly sought after by employers.
Eligibility for both the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP requires at least a bachelor’s degree in human resources or an approved related field, as well as varying years of experience working in human resources.
But as a master's degree holder, you get an extra benefit with SHRM – especially if you're just entering the field. Because the more HR education you have, the less experience you need to be eligible to take the exam.2 In fact, just having a graduate degree and being in an HR role gives you this opportunity.
SNHU’s master’s in human resources program aligns with SHRM competencies, including employee and labor relations, legal and ethical issues, recruitment and technology, and the changing workforce. Earning a master’s degree in human resources from SNHU can help prepare you to sit for the SHRM certification exams.
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Sources & Citations
1Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at:
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/human-resources-managers.htm (viewed April 19, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/training-and-development-managers.htm (viewed April 19, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/emp/chart-unemployment-earnings-education.htm (viewed April 19, 2024)
Cited projections may not reflect local or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.
2Society for Human Resource Management, on the internet, at https://www.shrm.org/credentials/certification (viewed April 19, 2024)