Best Online MBA in Human Resources

Online MBA programs in human resources teach essential business and HR skills. Discover the best programs and career paths.
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Updated on March 1, 2024
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Requiring about two years of full-time study, MBA in human resources programs are offered both online and in person. Learners who choose to enroll in an online MBA in human resources program can schedule their studies around their existing work schedules.

The BLS projects 5% job growth for human resources managers between 2022 and 2032.

An online MBA in human resources can lead to fulfilling work and a large paycheck. For example, human resources specialists earn a median annual salary of $64,240, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Per Payscale data from March 2024, vice presidents of human resources earn an average of $147,846 per year. The BLS projects 5% job growth for human resources managers between 2022 and 2032.

If you're interested in helping employees and businesses succeed, an MBA in human resources may be an excellent choice. Read on to learn more about this degree, discover which positions could await you after graduation, and get answers to your most pressing questions.

Featured Online MBA in HR Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Best Accredited Online MBA in Human Resources Programs

These rankings were compiled by our BestColleges Ranking Team and include sponsored results from our partners. We use publicly available provisional datasets from Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) to inform the data for these schools. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.

We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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#1 Best Online MBA in Human Resources

Pennsylvania State University-World Campus

  • University Park, PA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
Not provided
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#2 Best Online MBA in Human Resources

Purdue University Global-Indianapolis

  • West Lafayette, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,080
Out-of-state
$13,356
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,766
Out-of-state
$9,740
Retention Rate
33%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
43,927
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#3 Best Online MBA in Human Resources

Averett University

  • Danville, VA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$36,520
Out-of-state
$36,520
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
59%
Acceptance Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
887
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
94% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Online MBA in Human Resources

Union University

  • Jackson, TN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$22,080
Out-of-state
$22,080
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,625
Out-of-state
$10,625
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
3,071
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
46% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Best Online MBA in Human Resources

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

  • Lincoln, NE
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,770
Out-of-state
$24,900
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,138
Out-of-state
$17,928
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
25,108
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
67% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#6 Best Online MBA in Human Resources

University of Mary

  • Bismarck, ND
  • 4 years
  • Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$17,980
Out-of-state
$17,980
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,875
Out-of-state
$16,875
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
72%
Students Enrolled
3,799
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
49% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#7 Best Online MBA in Human Resources

University of Wisconsin-Whitewater

  • Whitewater, WI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,519
Out-of-state
$15,391
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,270
Out-of-state
$18,153
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
11,989
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
91% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#8 Best Online MBA in Human Resources

Anderson University

  • Anderson, SC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$26,820
Out-of-state
$26,820
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,140
Out-of-state
$10,140
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
59%
Students Enrolled
3,848
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
60% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Best Online MBA in Human Resources

Everglades University

  • Boca Raton, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$17,520
Out-of-state
$17,520
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$19,200
Out-of-state
$19,200
Retention Rate
63%
Acceptance Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
2,247
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
62% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Best Online MBA in Human Resources

Maryville University of Saint Louis

  • Saint Louis, MO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$24,766
Out-of-state
$24,766
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,346
Out-of-state
$14,346
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
95%
Students Enrolled
10,979
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
83% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#11 Best Online MBA in Human Resources

Liberty University

  • Lynchburg, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,791
Out-of-state
$14,791
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,935
Out-of-state
$7,935
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
50%
Students Enrolled
93,349
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
93% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#12 Best Online MBA in Human Resources

University of Louisiana at Lafayette

  • Lafayette, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,407
Out-of-state
$19,135
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,511
Out-of-state
$19,238
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
16,450
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
54% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#13 Best Online MBA in Human Resources

Regis University

  • Denver, CO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$38,208
Out-of-state
$38,208
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,322
Out-of-state
$14,322
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
6,310
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
66% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#14 Best Online MBA in Human Resources

Concordia University-Wisconsin

  • Mequon, WI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$30,890
Out-of-state
$30,890
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,340
Out-of-state
$11,340
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Students Enrolled
5,492
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
53% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#15 Best Online MBA in Human Resources

Bryan College-Dayton

  • Dayton, TN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$16,900
Out-of-state
$16,900
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,630
Out-of-state
$9,630
Retention Rate
64%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,412
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
48% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

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What Is an MBA in Human Resources?


An MBA in human resources combines the business administration courses of a traditional MBA with the workforce management courses of an HR master's program. These programs prepare students for high-level positions running human resources departments. Learners gain more specialized knowledge than in a traditional MBA program.

Requiring about two years of full-time study, these programs often allow students to enroll online, in person, or through a hybrid format.

Students enrolled in MBA in human resources programs can often pursue a concentration, such as training and development, employment law, healthcare management, and compensation and benefits.

What Can I Expect From an Online MBA in HR?

Pursuing an MBA in human resources means learning how to effectively run a modern business. Students enrolled in these programs learn how to work with both entry-level employees and high-level managers.

Students hone problem-solving and interpersonal skills that they can use daily when working with employees. They also learn how to strategically shape a company's culture while maintaining employer satisfaction and overall profit.

Online students may need a higher level of self-motivation and discipline than their on-campus counterparts, but the advantages of earning a degree online often outweigh the disadvantages.

Still wondering if an online degree is worth it? Learn more about the differences between online and on-campus programs and find out which delivery method makes sense for you.

Example MBA in Human Resources Courses

  • Business strategy
  • Managing organizational change
  • Organizational ethics
  • Leading effective teams
  • Personnel staffing and evaluation

What Are Admission Requirements for an MBA in Human Resources Program?

  • Check Circle

    Test Scores

    Competitive programs often require a minimum score of 650 on the GMAT. Some schools also accept GRE scores. However, there are some programs, such as Southern New Hampshire University's MBA in human resources management, that do not require test scores. Get more information, advice, and resources for preparing for the GMAT and GRE.
  • Check Circle

    Letters of Recommendation

    Letters of recommendation provide admissions departments with insight into the type of student or employer you are. These letters demonstrate that you have the qualities they want in a future student. Ask former professors and employers for recommendations at least six weeks before the application deadline.
  • Check Circle

    Resume

    Many MBA in human resources programs require applicants to possess prior work experience. Students with experience working in human resources make ideal applicants. However, even if you don't have HR-specific experience, showing that you have been a successful professional through your resume is still important.
  • Check Circle

    Essays

    Personal essays can give admissions departments unique insight into who you are as a person. This is your chance to tell your story and make your case. A personal essay that evokes emotion and shows a strong determination to succeed in the program can tip the scales in your favor, even if your GPA or test scores aren't as high as they could be.
  • Check Circle

    Official Transcripts

    All MBA programs require official transcripts. Some schools may require a certain cumulative GPA, while others may only look at your GPA for relevant subjects. Find out the minimum GPA your school requires in case you need to retake classes to boost your score.

What Can I Do With an MBA in HR Degree?

While a traditional MBA is among the most versatile degrees available, narrowing the focus of the degree can lead to specific human resources careers.

As more companies expand their operations, they will need professionals with human resources experience to run employee onboarding, training, recruitment, and retention processes.

Many HR professionals are in close alignment with legal teams and take part in leading diversity and inclusion initiatives. Payroll and succession planning are also big pieces to many jobs in HR on the operational side.

Job candidates with advanced degrees in human resources are qualified for management positions. As such, an MBA in human resources can set you up for steady, lucrative careers.

Human Resources Specialist

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Human resources specialists are entry-level professionals in the field. They assist with recruitment, placement, and training of new employees. They may also help guide new hires through company policies and procedures.

Median Annual Salary (May 2022): $64,240

Human Resources Manager

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Human resources managers develop and implement company initiatives that work with the overall business strategy and improve company profit and employee satisfaction. These professionals are often considered the go-to people for any issue an employee may encounter at work.

Median Annual Salary (May 2022): $130,000

Vice President of Human Resources

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The vice president of human resources is responsible for supervising a company's HR department. They typically help other HR managers strategize a company's recruitment, onboarding, and compensation policies and deliver briefings to company executives.

Average Annual Salary (October 2023): $147,240

Employee Experience Manager

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Employee experience managers create a positive work environment for employees. These professionals recruit and retain qualified and talented employees by cultivating a company culture that values every employee.

Average Annual Salary (October 2023): $80,330

Senior Human Resources Consultant

Chevron Down

These professionals spearhead human resources programs, conduct research to measure employee satisfaction, and provide actionable advice to human resources departments. These professionals typically hold years of human resources experience and are gifted in strategic problem-solving.

Average Annual Salary (September 2023): $90,000


Is an MBA in Human Resources Worth It?

Earning an MBA in human resources can be a worthwhile pursuit for students who want to advance their career in HR while gaining the traditional business administration skills of an MBA. However, there are situations when an MBA in HR may not be the right degree for you.

Students who earned their undergraduate degree in business or a related field may be better off sticking to a non-MBA HR program. Because MBA in human resources programs equip students with foundational business, finance, and accounting skills, students who have already gained similar knowledge during their bachelor's program won't learn as much.

Furthermore, students who aren't certain about working in HR may be better suited for a general MBA or mini MBA program.

The degree you pursue should depend on your specific career goals, your current level of experience and education, and your salary ambitions. If you aren't certain about human resources, think about choosing an MBA program with a different concentration. However, if you know you want to pursue a career in HR, an MBA in human resources can be a great fit.

Is an MBA Better Than a Master's in Human Resources?

You may wonder whether an online master's in human resources or an MBA in human resources is the better fit for you. These two degrees prepare graduates for similar careers. However, an MBA can be a smart choice for students who didn't earn an undergraduate degree in a business field.

An MBA in human resources can also be a good route for students who aren't sure they want to stay in human resources. Because these programs equip students with general business, finance, and marketing knowledge, they can lead to more varied career opportunities than a master's in human resources.

Which MBA Concentrations Are Similar to Human Resources?

You have many options when it comes to learning about business and human resources at the master's level, from an MBA with an HR concentration to a master's in human resources.

MBA programs offer alternative concentrations, aside from human resources, that also focus on the human aspect of business. The following list highlights a few popular MBA concentrations.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Diversity, equity, and inclusion concentrations in MBA programs teach students how social, economic, and psychological factors can influence employees and corporations. Enrollees will learn about workplace discrimination, diversity in organizations, and organizational politics. Graduates should be better prepared to work in diverse organizations and understand different points of view.

Organizational Behavior

MBAs with a concentration in organizational behavior focus on how employees and organizations work. Enrollees learn about human-based problems in organizations and methods to resolve issues. Students will study team dynamics, organizational strategy, and negotiating conflicts.

Corporate Sustainability and Social Impact

Corporate sustainability and social impact MBA programs help students develop a holistic view of financial, social, and environmental problems that impact businesses. Attendees will study how issues affect corporate stakeholders, local communities, and governments. Program graduates can pursue roles including sustainability manager, corporate responsibility analyst, and environmental consultant.

Leadership

MBA programs with a concentration in leadership assist aspiring leaders in learning the necessary skills for their future careers. Enrollees will study leadership, sustainability, and negotiation techniques. Courses in these programs focus on the leadership aspect of business and cover topics like leading the digital supply chain and leading virtual teams.

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How Do I Choose an MBA in Human Resources Program?

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    Cost

    Calculating the true cost of an online degree is among the top concerns for students looking to earn their master's. Online students generally pay less in tuition than their on-campus counterparts. In-state students usually pay less than out-of-state learners, and public colleges are often more affordable than private schools.
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    Program Format

    Choosing synchronous or asynchronous learning is an important decision. Some students may need the flexibility of an asynchronous online program, while others prefer the structure of a synchronous program. Students must also choose whether a part-time or full-time MBA makes the most sense for them.
  • Minus

    Location

    Even online students need to take into account the location of their future college, as they may need to complete on-campus requirements. Even when visits aren't required, some students find that they feel more engaged when they can visit campus. Students who live nearby may also be able to take advantage of networking opportunities.
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    Career Opportunities

    Some schools offer more resources than others to help students break into the workforce. When researching MBA in human resources programs, look for schools that advertise their collaboration with corporate recruiters. If possible, reach out to alumni to see what opportunities they had to network with employers.
  • Minus

    Programmatic Accreditation

    When researching MBA in human resources programs, finding schools with proper accreditation is of the utmost importance. Programmatic accreditation focuses on specific programs or departments rather than an entire institution.

    For MBA programs, seek out accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, or the International Accreditation Council for Business Education.

Frequently Asked Questions About MBA in Human Resources Programs

Is an MBA in human resources program hard to get into?

It depends. Students may have a better chance of being accepted to online programs than on-campus programs. Applicants with work experience also have better odds of earning admission. Many competitive programs require a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 and a minimum GMAT score of 650 to qualify for admission.

What can I do with an MBA in human resources?

There are several HR roles and employee satisfaction-centered roles that MBA graduates can pursue. Possible job titles include human resources specialist, human resources manager, and compensation and benefits manager.

Is human resources a good career?

Yes. Between 2022 and 2032, the BLS projects 5% job growth for human resources managers. This rate eclipses the average projected growth rate for all careers during the same period. These professionals earned a median annual salary of $130,000 as of May 2021.

How much money can I make with an MBA in human resources?

Salary potential depends on factors like your job title, experience, and location. Human resources managers earned a median annual salary of $130,000 in 2021, while human resources specialists made $64,240 per year, according to the BLS.

What are the highest-paying jobs I can get with an MBA in human resources?

There are several lucrative jobs that MBA in human resources degree-holders might qualify for. Per Payscale, vice presidents of human resources earned an average annual salary of $147,240 in 2023. Compensation and benefits managers made a median annual salary of $131,280, according to the BLS.

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