Skip to main content

Online Master's in Human Resources MS in HR Management

Kristi Galvin, 2019 online HR grad, standing and smiling in front of a brick house.

Cost per credit $637

Total courses 12

Term length 10 weeks

Apply Now
Request Information

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
Ade Osinowo, a 2020 online HR alumna, sitting at a laptop computer.

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.

Degree Courses

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:

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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

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: October 14, 2024 | January 06, 2024

Next term starts:
July 29, 2024

Apply Now

Online Student Experience What’s it like going to SNHU?

Attending college online at SNHU can be a life-changing experience. In fact, 93.2% of online students would recommend SNHU according to a 2023 survey with 21,000+ respondents.

What to expect:

10-week terms

Learn around your schedule

24/7 online support

Online Classroom

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
How to Take an Online Class at SNHU
5 ways SNHU makes the admission process "easy-peasy" #shorts

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

It's easy, fast and free.

Apply Now

You’ll fill out one form to verify your high school completion or GED. Then, if you’ve attended college before, you’ll submit a form for each school so we can request your transcripts for you. (Also for free!)

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), which means we meet certain standards of academic quality, and have the tools and resources necessary for students to be successful. 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.

NECHE Logo ACBSP Global Business Acreditation Logo

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 programs

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 $7,644
Transfer credits and lower your cost by:

If 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.

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:

Help train educators and administrators to make positive impact on education systems and services.

Help people discover their passions, find their careers or advance in their current careers.

Promote team-building, collaboration, and better communication for teams large and small.

Help strategize ways to help people work together more efficiently so they can better serve communities.

Make an impact in communities and healthcare setting by helping to hire, manage and train staff.

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 do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.

What SNHU students are saying

Vanessa R. Harvey ‘21
Vanessa R. Harvey ‘21
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

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."

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

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.”

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.

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.

Related Articles

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)