Best Online MBA in Human Resources
An online MBA in human resources degree can help you step into leadership positions in HR departments across industries. Check out our top program picks.
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The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects employment of human resources (HR) managers to grow by 6% from 2023 to 2033, growing faster than the average job growth rate (4%) for all occupations. This growth comes as current HR managers are retiring or changing careers.
The fact is, most businesses and organizations need human resources leaders to grow and succeed. An online MBA in human resources degree can help you land a management role, as it can enhance your expertise in talent acquisition, employee engagement, compensation and benefits, and organizational development without you needing to leave your career.
In this guide, we’ll break down how an online MBA in human resources degree can help you become an HR leader and how to find the right program for you.
MBA in Human Resources Highlights
- In BestColleges’ 2024 Online Education Trends Report, 94% of the online MBA and master’s students and graduates surveyed said they think earning an online degree has had or will have a positive return on investment.
- Human resources specialists and managers are set to grow at a faster rate (8% and 6%, respectively) than the average (4%) for other occupations from 2023 to 2033.
- Online MBA programs are often geared toward working professionals, allowing you to pursue the degree without leaving your current job.
Top Online MBAs in Human Resources
How We Rank Schools
To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.
To qualify for our rankings lists, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each eligible school was then ranked based on a formula measuring:
- Affordability (30%)
- Student outcomes (30%)
- Reputation (20%)
- Diversity and social mobility (20%)
In addition, we only included colleges with graduation rates in the top third of all online colleges.
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus
University Park, PA4 yearCampus + Online
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
Students earning an online MBA at Penn State can pursue a concentration in human resource management. All students must complete a 39-credit core curriculum covering crucial business principles.
Learners in the human resource management concentration must complete nine additional credits. Overlapping course requirements makes it possible for students to pair human resource management with another concentration.
In addition to completing asynchronous online coursework, students must attend a three-day residency, where they can network with peers and faculty members.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost-per-credit: $1,236
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 48 credits
- Format: Online
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
- School Status: Public
Pennsylvania State University is accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
N/A
N/A
N/A
0
Public
Yes
N/A
N/A
University Park, PA4 yearCampus + Online
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
0
Public
Yes
Students earning an online MBA at Penn State can pursue a concentration in human resource management. All students must complete a 39-credit core curriculum covering crucial business principles.
Learners in the human resource management concentration must complete nine additional credits. Overlapping course requirements makes it possible for students to pair human resource management with another concentration.
In addition to completing asynchronous online coursework, students must attend a three-day residency, where they can network with peers and faculty members.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost-per-credit: $1,236
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 48 credits
- Format: Online
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
- School Status: Public
Pennsylvania State University is accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Purdue University Global-Indianapolis
West Lafayette, IN4 yearCampus + Online
$8,766
$9,740
N/A
100%
Students progress through the curriculum of Purdue's MBA with a human resources concentration in six-week terms. Learners take one or two courses per term and typically complete the program in two years. To complete the human resources concentration, students must finish core business courses and earn 16 credits of human resources-centered courses, accounting for 76 total credits.
Purdue also offers an accelerated MBA path that gives motivated students the opportunity to save time and money. Learners must complete two standard online courses and 52 one-credit modules.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
- Cost-per-credit: $485
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 76 credits
- Format: Online
- School Status: Public
Purdue University is accredited by Higher Learning Commission.
$10,080
$13,356
33%
43,927
Public
Yes
$8,766
$9,740
West Lafayette, IN4 yearCampus + Online
$8,766
$9,740
N/A
100%
$10,080
$13,356
33%
43,927
Public
Yes
Students progress through the curriculum of Purdue's MBA with a human resources concentration in six-week terms. Learners take one or two courses per term and typically complete the program in two years. To complete the human resources concentration, students must finish core business courses and earn 16 credits of human resources-centered courses, accounting for 76 total credits.
Purdue also offers an accelerated MBA path that gives motivated students the opportunity to save time and money. Learners must complete two standard online courses and 52 one-credit modules.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
- Cost-per-credit: $485
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 76 credits
- Format: Online
- School Status: Public
Purdue University is accredited by Higher Learning Commission.
Averett University
Danville, VA4 yearCampus
N/A
N/A
69%
94%
Averett University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. The university offers an online MBA program in human resource management, equipping students with an academic background, exploring executive-level business principles from an HR perspective.
In this 40 credit, asynchronous program, coursework details crucial elements of human resources. Coursework explores topics, such as employment and labor laws and regulations; recruitment, hiring and training; and compensation and benefits management.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost-per-credit: $655
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 40 credits
- Format: Online
- School Status: Private
Averett University is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
$36,520
$36,520
59%
887
Private
Yes
N/A
N/A
Danville, VA4 yearCampus
N/A
N/A
69%
94%
$36,520
$36,520
59%
887
Private
Yes
Averett University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. The university offers an online MBA program in human resource management, equipping students with an academic background, exploring executive-level business principles from an HR perspective.
In this 40 credit, asynchronous program, coursework details crucial elements of human resources. Coursework explores topics, such as employment and labor laws and regulations; recruitment, hiring and training; and compensation and benefits management.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost-per-credit: $655
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 40 credits
- Format: Online
- School Status: Private
Averett University is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Union University
Jackson, TN4 yearCampus + Online
$10,625
$10,625
58%
46%
Union University's online MBA in human resources program comprises 40 credits and delivers all coursework synchronously. Each term lasts eight weeks, and distance learners attend courses one night per week.
During the program, students complete courses in human resource management, employee training and development, and strategic conflict resolution. They also complete core business coursework. After graduating, students can pursue the professional in human resources certification.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Cost-per-credit: $635
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 36 credit hours
- Program Length: 12-24 months
- Format: Online
- School Status: Private
Union University is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
$22,080
$22,080
87%
3,071
Private
Yes
$10,625
$10,625
Jackson, TN4 yearCampus + Online
$10,625
$10,625
58%
46%
$22,080
$22,080
87%
3,071
Private
Yes
Union University's online MBA in human resources program comprises 40 credits and delivers all coursework synchronously. Each term lasts eight weeks, and distance learners attend courses one night per week.
During the program, students complete courses in human resource management, employee training and development, and strategic conflict resolution. They also complete core business coursework. After graduating, students can pursue the professional in human resources certification.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Cost-per-credit: $635
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 36 credit hours
- Program Length: 12-24 months
- Format: Online
- School Status: Private
Union University is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Lincoln, NE4 yearCampus + Online
$6,138
$17,928
78%
67%
The Financial Times ranked the University of Nebraska Lincoln's MBA program as the best value for the money in the U.S. in 2021. Students can complete all coursework asynchronously or through the Flex MBA program, a unique hybrid format in which students take core courses on campus and elective courses online.
To complete UNL's online MBA in human resources, students must earn 48 credits, including nine credits of specialized courses in areas, such as labor and compensation administration.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Cost-per-credit: $650
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 48 credits
- Format: Online or hybrid
- School Status: Public
University of Nebraska - Lincoln is accredited by Higher Learning Commission.
$7,770
$24,900
85%
25,108
Public
Yes
$6,138
$17,928
Lincoln, NE4 yearCampus + Online
$6,138
$17,928
78%
67%
$7,770
$24,900
85%
25,108
Public
Yes
The Financial Times ranked the University of Nebraska Lincoln's MBA program as the best value for the money in the U.S. in 2021. Students can complete all coursework asynchronously or through the Flex MBA program, a unique hybrid format in which students take core courses on campus and elective courses online.
To complete UNL's online MBA in human resources, students must earn 48 credits, including nine credits of specialized courses in areas, such as labor and compensation administration.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Cost-per-credit: $650
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 48 credits
- Format: Online or hybrid
- School Status: Public
University of Nebraska - Lincoln is accredited by Higher Learning Commission.
University of Mary
Bismarck, ND4 yearOnline
$16,875
$16,875
72%
49%
The University of Mary offers an MBA in human resources through the Gary Tharaldson School of Business. The program is accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education.
Mary's online MBA in human resources delivers all coursework asynchronously through five-week sessions, during which students typically take one course at a time. This model allows for rolling start dates that align with the five-week cycles. Because of the program's flexibility, students can complete the 36 required credits within 16 months.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: International Accreditation Council for Business Education
- Cost-per-credit: $550
- Program Length: 16 months
- Format: Online
- School Status: Private
University of Mary is accredited by Higher Learning Commission.
$17,980
$17,980
78%
3,799
Private
Yes
$16,875
$16,875
Bismarck, ND4 yearOnline
$16,875
$16,875
72%
49%
$17,980
$17,980
78%
3,799
Private
Yes
The University of Mary offers an MBA in human resources through the Gary Tharaldson School of Business. The program is accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education.
Mary's online MBA in human resources delivers all coursework asynchronously through five-week sessions, during which students typically take one course at a time. This model allows for rolling start dates that align with the five-week cycles. Because of the program's flexibility, students can complete the 36 required credits within 16 months.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: International Accreditation Council for Business Education
- Cost-per-credit: $550
- Program Length: 16 months
- Format: Online
- School Status: Private
University of Mary is accredited by Higher Learning Commission.
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
Whitewater, WI4 yearCampus + Online
$8,270
$18,153
80%
91%
University of Wisconsin Whitewater houses the largest business school in Wisconsin. The university's MBA in human resources program delivers all coursework asynchronously and does not include any in-person requirements.
Students must take 36 credits of breadth, emphasis, and elective courses. Learners seeking additional credentials can earn a graduate certificate in human resource management by taking five additional courses.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Cost-per-credit: $652
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 45 credits
- Format: Online
- School Status: Public
University of Wisconsin - Whitewater is accredited by Higher Learning Commission.
$6,519
$15,391
79%
11,989
Public
Yes
$8,270
$18,153
Whitewater, WI4 yearCampus + Online
$8,270
$18,153
80%
91%
$6,519
$15,391
79%
11,989
Public
Yes
University of Wisconsin Whitewater houses the largest business school in Wisconsin. The university's MBA in human resources program delivers all coursework asynchronously and does not include any in-person requirements.
Students must take 36 credits of breadth, emphasis, and elective courses. Learners seeking additional credentials can earn a graduate certificate in human resource management by taking five additional courses.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Cost-per-credit: $652
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 45 credits
- Format: Online
- School Status: Public
University of Wisconsin - Whitewater is accredited by Higher Learning Commission.
Anderson University
Anderson, SC4 yearCampus + Online
$10,140
$10,140
59%
60%
Students in Anderson University's MBA program can pursue a specialization in human resources. To complete the specialization, students must complete nine credits of human resources courses in addition to a core curriculum. In total, the program requires 36 credits, and most students graduate in 12-24 months.
The program delivers all coursework synchronously, aligning with the same six-week terms as in-person learners. Although this format limits flexibility, students can switch freely between online and in-person courses.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
- Cost-per-credit: $525
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 36 credit hours
- Program Length: 12-24 months
- Format: Online or hybrid
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
- School Status: Private
Anderson University is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
$26,820
$26,820
84%
3,848
Private
Yes
$10,140
$10,140
Anderson, SC4 yearCampus + Online
$10,140
$10,140
59%
60%
$26,820
$26,820
84%
3,848
Private
Yes
Students in Anderson University's MBA program can pursue a specialization in human resources. To complete the specialization, students must complete nine credits of human resources courses in addition to a core curriculum. In total, the program requires 36 credits, and most students graduate in 12-24 months.
The program delivers all coursework synchronously, aligning with the same six-week terms as in-person learners. Although this format limits flexibility, students can switch freely between online and in-person courses.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
- Cost-per-credit: $525
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 36 credit hours
- Program Length: 12-24 months
- Format: Online or hybrid
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
- School Status: Private
Anderson University is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Everglades University
Boca Raton, FL4 yearOnline
$19,200
$19,200
75%
62%
Everglades University offers an MBA in human resources program that requires 36 credits, including 21 credits of business courses, 12 credits of human resource management courses, and a three-credit business administration capstone course.
The program's human resource management concentration equips students with the tools to navigate business management and decision-making. The program delivers all coursework asynchronously. Students complete specialized courses in advanced organizational behavior, training and development, and employment law.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost-per-credit: $800
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 36 credits
- Format: Online
- School Status: Private
Everglades University is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
$17,520
$17,520
63%
2,247
Private
Yes
$19,200
$19,200
Boca Raton, FL4 yearOnline
$19,200
$19,200
75%
62%
$17,520
$17,520
63%
2,247
Private
Yes
Everglades University offers an MBA in human resources program that requires 36 credits, including 21 credits of business courses, 12 credits of human resource management courses, and a three-credit business administration capstone course.
The program's human resource management concentration equips students with the tools to navigate business management and decision-making. The program delivers all coursework asynchronously. Students complete specialized courses in advanced organizational behavior, training and development, and employment law.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost-per-credit: $800
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 36 credits
- Format: Online
- School Status: Private
Everglades University is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Maryville University of Saint Louis
Saint Louis, MO4 yearCampus + Online
$14,346
$14,346
95%
83%
Maryville University offers an MBA in human resources program accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. The program delivers all coursework asynchronously and eliminates all in-person requirements.
All students must complete 39 credits to graduate. Maryville offers six start dates throughout the year. Although exact program length varies, full-time students can graduate within one year. Courses in the human resources concentration include workforce management, employment law and compliance, and compensation and benefits.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
- Cost-per-credit: $714
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 39 credits
- Program Length: 1 year
- Format: Online
- School Status: Private
Maryville University of Saint Louis is accredited by Higher Learning Commission.
$24,766
$24,766
83%
10,979
Private
Yes
$14,346
$14,346
Saint Louis, MO4 yearCampus + Online
$14,346
$14,346
95%
83%
$24,766
$24,766
83%
10,979
Private
Yes
Maryville University offers an MBA in human resources program accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. The program delivers all coursework asynchronously and eliminates all in-person requirements.
All students must complete 39 credits to graduate. Maryville offers six start dates throughout the year. Although exact program length varies, full-time students can graduate within one year. Courses in the human resources concentration include workforce management, employment law and compliance, and compensation and benefits.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
- Cost-per-credit: $714
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 39 credits
- Program Length: 1 year
- Format: Online
- School Status: Private
Maryville University of Saint Louis is accredited by Higher Learning Commission.
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA4 yearCampus + Online
$7,935
$7,935
50%
93%
Liberty University's online MBA in human resources program explores how HR professionals enforce law and policy in the workplace and helps students build crucial skills in team management. Students explore these concepts in courses, such as contemporary issues in human resource management and workforce planning and employment.
Liberty's MBA delivers coursework asynchronously, and terms last eight weeks each. Part-time students typically complete this 45-credit program in two years. Military personnel can receive a significant per-credit tuition discount.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
- Cost-per-credit: $565
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 45 credit hours
- Format: Online
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
- School Status: Private
Liberty University is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
$14,791
$14,791
81%
93,349
Private
Yes
$7,935
$7,935
Lynchburg, VA4 yearCampus + Online
$7,935
$7,935
50%
93%
$14,791
$14,791
81%
93,349
Private
Yes
Liberty University's online MBA in human resources program explores how HR professionals enforce law and policy in the workplace and helps students build crucial skills in team management. Students explore these concepts in courses, such as contemporary issues in human resource management and workforce planning and employment.
Liberty's MBA delivers coursework asynchronously, and terms last eight weeks each. Part-time students typically complete this 45-credit program in two years. Military personnel can receive a significant per-credit tuition discount.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
- Cost-per-credit: $565
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 45 credit hours
- Format: Online
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
- School Status: Private
Liberty University is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Lafayette, LA4 yearCampus + Online
$5,511
$19,238
67%
54%
The University of Louisiana at Lafayette allows MBA students to pursue a concentration in human resource management. In this program, students interested in human resources can choose coursework that aligns with their career goals, exploring employment law, recruitment, and performance theory.
All students must complete 33 credits for this concentration. Courses last for eight weeks, with the program offering multiple start dates throughout the year. Full-time students can complete the degree within 15 months. In addition, online students gain access to university resources like online tutoring, technical support, and career services.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Cost-per-credit: $387.88
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 33 credit hours
- Program Length: 15 months
- Format: Online
- School Status: Public
University of Louisiana at Lafayette is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
$5,407
$19,135
79%
16,450
Public
Yes
$5,511
$19,238
Lafayette, LA4 yearCampus + Online
$5,511
$19,238
67%
54%
$5,407
$19,135
79%
16,450
Public
Yes
The University of Louisiana at Lafayette allows MBA students to pursue a concentration in human resource management. In this program, students interested in human resources can choose coursework that aligns with their career goals, exploring employment law, recruitment, and performance theory.
All students must complete 33 credits for this concentration. Courses last for eight weeks, with the program offering multiple start dates throughout the year. Full-time students can complete the degree within 15 months. In addition, online students gain access to university resources like online tutoring, technical support, and career services.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Cost-per-credit: $387.88
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 33 credit hours
- Program Length: 15 months
- Format: Online
- School Status: Public
University of Louisiana at Lafayette is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Regis University
Denver, CO4 yearCampus + Online
$14,322
$14,322
78%
66%
Regis University's MBA in human resources comprises 36 credits, split into eight-week terms. Students must complete 27 credits of core courses and nine credits of human resources concentration coursework. Learners typically graduate in 18-24 months.
This MBA program offers flexible, rolling admissions and does not require applicants to submit standardized test scores or meet a GPA cutoff. Although students can choose from six start dates, they should submit applications at least four weeks before their chosen date.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost-per-credit: $990
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 36 credit hours
- Format: Hybrid
- School Status: Private
Regis University is accredited by Higher Learning Commission.
$38,208
$38,208
73%
6,310
Private
Yes
$14,322
$14,322
Denver, CO4 yearCampus + Online
$14,322
$14,322
78%
66%
$38,208
$38,208
73%
6,310
Private
Yes
Regis University's MBA in human resources comprises 36 credits, split into eight-week terms. Students must complete 27 credits of core courses and nine credits of human resources concentration coursework. Learners typically graduate in 18-24 months.
This MBA program offers flexible, rolling admissions and does not require applicants to submit standardized test scores or meet a GPA cutoff. Although students can choose from six start dates, they should submit applications at least four weeks before their chosen date.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost-per-credit: $990
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 36 credit hours
- Format: Hybrid
- School Status: Private
Regis University is accredited by Higher Learning Commission.
Concordia University-Wisconsin
Mequon, WI4 yearCampus + Online
$11,340
$11,340
71%
53%
Concordia University Wisconsin's online MBA in human resources program offers students an enriching distance learning experience. Students in this 36-credit program receive instruction from industry experts, exploring topics like employee compensation and conflict management.
In addition to taking relevant courses, such as risk management and insurance, fraud management, and public personnel administration, learners must complete a 120-hour graduate internship. Students can also earn certifications in their desired fields, prepare for industry exams, and embark on study abroad excursions to China and Austria.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: International Accreditation Council for Business Education
- Cost-per-credit: $760
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 36 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Format: Online
- School Status: Private
Concordia University - Wisconsin is accredited by Higher Learning Commission.
$30,890
$30,890
81%
5,492
Private
Yes
$11,340
$11,340
Mequon, WI4 yearCampus + Online
$11,340
$11,340
71%
53%
$30,890
$30,890
81%
5,492
Private
Yes
Concordia University Wisconsin's online MBA in human resources program offers students an enriching distance learning experience. Students in this 36-credit program receive instruction from industry experts, exploring topics like employee compensation and conflict management.
In addition to taking relevant courses, such as risk management and insurance, fraud management, and public personnel administration, learners must complete a 120-hour graduate internship. Students can also earn certifications in their desired fields, prepare for industry exams, and embark on study abroad excursions to China and Austria.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: International Accreditation Council for Business Education
- Cost-per-credit: $760
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 36 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Format: Online
- School Status: Private
Concordia University - Wisconsin is accredited by Higher Learning Commission.
Bryan College-Dayton
Dayton, TN4 yearCampus + Online
$9,630
$9,630
N/A
48%
Bryan College offers an online MBA in human resources that focuses on flexibility above all. Therefore, the program delivers all coursework asynchronously through eight-week sessions. Students can complete the program's 36-credit curriculum within 14 months.
This program illustrates the importance of leadership and business proficiency in a curriculum that aligns with a Christian worldview. The MBA in human resources does not require a minimum GPA or standardized test scores.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: International Accreditation Council for Business Education
- Cost-per-credit: $595
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 36 credit hours
- Program Length: 14 months
- Format: Online
- School Status: Private
Bryan College - Dayton is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
$16,900
$16,900
64%
1,412
Private
Yes
$9,630
$9,630
Dayton, TN4 yearCampus + Online
$9,630
$9,630
N/A
48%
$16,900
$16,900
64%
1,412
Private
Yes
Bryan College offers an online MBA in human resources that focuses on flexibility above all. Therefore, the program delivers all coursework asynchronously through eight-week sessions. Students can complete the program's 36-credit curriculum within 14 months.
This program illustrates the importance of leadership and business proficiency in a curriculum that aligns with a Christian worldview. The MBA in human resources does not require a minimum GPA or standardized test scores.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: International Accreditation Council for Business Education
- Cost-per-credit: $595
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 36 credit hours
- Program Length: 14 months
- Format: Online
- School Status: Private
Bryan College - Dayton is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Why You Should Get an MBA in Human Resources Degree
Learn High-Demand Skills: An MBA in human resources program will teach you human skills, like strategic thinking and leadership, that are valuable to employers — even amid the rise of artificial intelligence (AI).- Build Business Acumen: Besides focusing on core HR knowledge, MBAs in human resources programs also provide instruction on fundamental business topics, like accounting and finance.
- Prepare for Leadership Roles: The management and leadership skills discussed in MBA programs can help prepare you to take on leadership positions in the HR field.
Benefits of Getting an MBA in Human Resources Degree Online
- In BestColleges’ 2024 report, 97% of online MBA and master’s students and graduates surveyed said they would recommend online education to others.
- Of those same online MBA and master’s students and graduates surveyed, 78% said an online learning environment is equal to or better than learning on campus.
- Additionally, of those surveyed in that same group, 59% said their degree included assignments they could use to explore future career options.
How to Choose the Best Program for You
The main factors to consider when choosing the best MBA program for you include tuition cost, financial aid options, program length, application requirements, and accreditation.
Dr. Angélica S. Gutiérrez, an associate professor of management at Loyola Marymount University, says it’s also important to consider a program’s curriculum. She explains that most programs offer core courses that teach fundamental business knowledge; however, their electives vary, and these can help students develop specialized skills.
During your search, keep in mind that you’ll see schools using the terms “concentration” and “specialization” interchangeably when describing their programs. However, both terms generally mean the same thing: that the program offers a set of classes focused on human resources management.
How Much Does an MBA in Human Resources Program Cost?
Master’s in Business/Management, 2019-2020
Online
Avg. Tuition & Fees
$10,995
Avg. Net Price
$8,534
In-Person
Avg. Tuition & Fees
$21,974
Avg. Net Price
$$15,428
Source: NCES PowerStats
Online master’s programs in business cost an average of $10,995 per year, according to 2020 data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). This data includes the average price for all online MBA programs, however, not just ones with an HR focus.
The nearly $11,000 price tag for an online MBA is less than half of an in-person program though, and you can save even more with scholarships and other financial aid options. It’s important to note, however, that the cost of MBA programs is highly variable, depending on where you go.
For instance, the highly renowned University of Michigan Ross School of Business charges roughly $128,000 in tuition for non-Michigan residents for its entire program. Louisiana State University Shreveport (LSUS), which is a regional university, offers an MBA program with an HR management concentration with a total program tuition cost of $14,370.
Find Financial Aid for Your MBA
How Long Does It Take to Get an MBA in Human Resources Degree?
Typical # of Credits
30-60 Credits
Typical Program Length
2-3 Years
An MBA program usually takes at least 30 credits and two years to complete, but this timeline can change depending on the program’s format and your schedule.
The online MBA in human resources from the University of North Carolina Wilmington, for instance, can be finished in as little as 12 months if students take a full-time courseload throughout the program.
By contrast, Purdue University Global’s online MBA in human resources program has an average completion time of two years.
Application Requirements
Common application requirements for an MBA in human resources program include:
Letters of recommendation- GMAT or GRE scores (if required)
- Personal essay
- Undergraduate transcripts
- Resume
Accreditation for MBAs in Human Resources
Attending an accredited program is a good way to ensure you’re learning relevant skills from qualified faculty.
Programmatic accreditation is granted to MBA programs that meet certain standards, like high student employment rates after graduation and excellent faculty qualifications.
Here are some major programmatic accreditors to look for when comparing programs:
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
- International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE)
- Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
Ask an Expert: How Important Is Accreditation?
“Accreditation is important because it signals that the program meets academic standards. Some employers will recognize only degrees and certifications that are accredited.”
What Can You Do With an MBA in Human Resources Degree?
An MBA in human resources degree and years of experience can help you qualify for managerial roles, such as compensation and benefits manager and training and development manager.
These jobs are on the rise, with the BLS projecting faster-than-average employment growth for HR managers and HR specialists from 2023 to 2033.
| Job | Median Annual Salary (May 2024) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Human Resources Managers | $140,030 | Lead an organization’s efforts in recruitment, training, and other administrative functions |
| Compensation and Benefits Managers | $140,360 | Manage payroll, insurance, and other employee benefits for an organization |
| Training and Development Managers | $127,090 | Coordinate training programs to teach an organization’s employees new skills |
| Labor Relations Specialists | $93,500 | Work in both the public and private sector to mediate between employees and management |
Learn More About Human Resources Jobs
Is an MBA in Human Resources Degree Worth It?
An online MBA in human resources degree can be worth it for professionals with managerial ambitions, as it can help you qualify for higher-paying jobs, such as human resources manager.
HR manager has a median annual salary of $140,030 as of May 2024, according to the BLS. Additionally, employment for this role is projected to grow faster than the average rate for all professions from 2023 to 2033, per the BLS.
Moreover, some MBA graduates even report receiving promotions and raises before graduating, which means you may see a return on your investment while still enrolled.
However, it’s also worth considering whether this degree or a master’s in human resources degree is the better fit for your goals. Gutierrez explains that while both are respected by employers, they focus on different things.
“An MBA in HR provides a broader foundation in business with core courses in finance, accounting, and management, and HR courses are taken as a specialization or concentration,” she said. “A master’s in HR is much more specialized and intended for professionals who want to pursue a career in HR so the coursework will be primarily in this field.”
Education Beyond an MBA
There are a number of online certificates anc certifications available for HR professionals to boost their career prospects and skills. For instance, the HR Certification Institute (HCRI), offers several certifications for professionals at various stages of their careers, from those just starting out to senior-level individuals.
However, if you want to teach human resources at the collegiate level, or conduct research in the field, a doctorate of human resources is highly recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions About MBAs in Human Resources
An MBA in human resources degree offers a broader foundation in business leadership, while a master’s in HR management degree dives deepers into HR-specific skills and practices. Both degrees can help you advance in the HR field — the best one for you depends on your background and goals.
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