MBA Human Resources Online

Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available

An MBA in Human Resources Online Program usually comprises 30 to 36 credits, encompassing core HR subjects and elective courses. The program utilizes a mix of synchronous sessions, enabling real-time interaction and asynchronous components for flexible engagement with pre-recorded lectures. This approach accommodates various learning preferences, offering a comprehensive and adaptable online learning experience. It provides the added benefit of securing immediate managerial roles and prepares individuals for real-world work challenges and responsibilities.

Curriculum for an Online Master of MBA in Human Resources Program

Online MBA in human resources degrees combines general business courses with an HR specialty curriculum. Specific courses vary by program; choosing a specialization could further alter curriculum expectations. However, most programs require courses similar to these:

• Business Analytics
  This course integrates human resources with data analytics, enhancing decision-making processes. It explores analytical tools, statistical methods, and data-driven insights to optimize HR practices. Graduates gain a competitive edge by combining HR expertise with advanced analytics skills, contributing to organizational success.
• Marketing and Strategy
  The Marketing and Strategy course merges HR principles with strategic marketing concepts. It delves into branding, market analysis, and strategic planning within an HR context. Graduates acquire a unique skill set, blending HR expertise with marketing strategies, positioning them to contribute to organizational success in dynamic business environments.
• Ethics and Responsibility
  This course emphasizes ethical leadership and corporate social responsibility within the HR framework. It explores ethical decision-making, sustainability, and societal impact. Graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills to navigate ethical challenges, fostering responsible HR practices for organizational success.
• Sourcing and Managing Talent
  This course focuses on effective talent acquisition and management strategies. It covers recruitment methodologies, workforce planning, and employee retention. Graduates gain the expertise to attract, develop, and retain top talent, contributing to organizational success in the dynamic field of Human Resources.

Every online MBA in HR program ends with a capstone project. The capstone allows learners to demonstrate the skills they learned in a real-world scenario while building their resumes and learning even more new skills. Students usually select the subject matter of their capstone, ideal for those interested in working for a specific industry.

Skills Gained in an Online MBA in Human Resources Program

An Online MBA in Human Resources program equips students with diverse skills crucial for navigating the dynamic landscape of HR management. These acquired skills prepare professionals to address contemporary challenges and contribute significantly to organizational success in the field of Human Resources. Accredited online MBA programs should help students develop the following skills:

• Strategic HR Management
• Talent Acquisition and Management
• Organizational Development
• Compensation and Benefits Design
• Employee Relations
• Diversity and Inclusion
• HR Analytics and Data Management
• Legal and Ethical HR Practices
• Leadership and Communication
• Change Management and Innovation

MBA in Human Resources vs. MSW in Human Resources: Understanding the Differences

Returning students looking for a graduate degree in human resources have several options, including an MBA or a master of social work (MSW). While both options lead to high-paying careers in human resources, the two have different program structures and outcomes.

Specializations for Human Resources Students

In complement to an online MBA in Human Resources, individuals can enhance their career prospects by pursuing further studies and specialization in a specific industry. This focused expertise not only deepens knowledge but also significantly augments the potential for securing desirable employment opportunities. Some of the specializations in an MBA in  Human Resources are:

Every school sets its own requirements for admission, though most online MBA in HR programs set similar admissions requirements. Potential requirements for admission include:

• Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution
• Submission of official transcripts
• Résumé detailing work experience
• Letters of recommendation
• Statement of Purpose outlining career goals
• GRE or GMAT scores (optional, program-dependent)
• Application form and fee

The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a standardized exam assessing analytical, writing, quantitative, verbal, and reading skills commonly required for admission to graduate business programs worldwide. Applying to an online MBA in human resources with no GMAT programs saves applicants time and money by avoiding the standardized test. Here are a few universities that offer online MBA human resources no GMAT programs:

• Southern New Hampshire University³
• Texas Woman’s University⁴

Accredited Programs

Accreditation is a crucial validation for MBA in HR students, signifying program quality and adherence to industry standards. Accredited degrees carry enhanced credibility and recognition in the job market, providing students with a competitive edge. Employers value accredited qualifications, ensuring that graduates possess a high-caliber education and skills, ultimately contributing to advancing their careers in Human Resources.

 Here are three accreditation bodies for MBA programs in the United States:

1. AACSB International (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business)⁵
2. ACBSP (Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs)⁶
3. IACBE (International Accreditation Council for Business Education)⁷

Universities can also be accredited nationally or by one of six regional accrediting agencies:

• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Free online courses offer students valuable knowledge and skill enhancement without financial constraints. While these courses aren’t accredited, they provide accessible learning opportunities. MBA in HR graduates can broaden their understanding, explore new subjects, and acquire practical skills, contributing to personal and professional growth at no cost. Here are a few programs or courses to consider:

As tuition fees escalate annually, pursuing an MBA in Human Resources online becomes progressively expensive. Before applying to any program, prospective students should seek funding options like scholarships, grants, federal loans, and FAFSA. Navigating these financial avenues is crucial to managing the increasing costs of an MBA in Human Resource Management education. Here are a few ways students can fund their degree programs:

Scholarships

Scholarships, granted for academic, extracurricular, or demographic merit, ease the financial strain of education, enhancing accessibility. Acknowledging and rewarding student achievements, scholarships encourage academic excellence and contribute to diverse educational pursuits.

Grants

Similar to scholarships, grants provide what is essentially free money to MBA students. Human resources students earn grants for different reasons, including financial need and academic excellence.

Graduate Assistantships

Graduate assistantships offer financial support to graduate students, providing valuable professional experiences. These roles often include teaching, research, or administrative responsibilities and may come with stipends, tuition waivers, or additional benefits, contributing to academic and professional growth.

Fellowships

Fellowships provide financial aid and professional development opportunities to graduate students pursuing advanced degrees. These competitive programs often include stipends, tuition coverage, and additional benefits, fostering academic excellence and research contributions. Securing a fellowship enhances a student’s educational experience and contributes to the overall advancement of their field.

Student Loans

Student loans are financial tools that enable individuals to fund their education, covering tuition, living expenses, and other associated costs. While they offer immediate financial support, students must repay the borrowed amount with interest after graduation. Careful consideration of terms and repayment plans is crucial.

FAFSA

FAFSA, or the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is crucial for U.S. students seeking financial assistance for higher education. It determines eligibility for federal grants, scholarships, and loans by assessing financial need.

Scholarships for Online MBA in HR Students

Scholarships for online MBA in HR students offer financial support to individuals pursuing advanced education in Human Resources management. These scholarships aim to alleviate the financial burden, enabling dedicated students to excel in their studies and contribute significantly to the field of HR through academic excellence and leadership. Here are two scholarships MBA in HR graduates can consider:

CXR Foundation Scholarship¹¹

Every year, the CXR Foundation awards a scholarship to a U.S. resident linked to a talent acquisition sector professional intending to enroll or currently enrolled in an accredited U.S. college or university. Qualified applicants encompass those engaged in corporate recruiting, talent acquisition, or affiliated roles within the industry.
Award/ Amount: $10,000
Deadline: Varies

J.C. Cote Scholarship¹²

The J.C. Cote Scholarship, awarded by the Arkansas SHRM State Council, recognizes and supports exceptional graduate students pursuing Human Resources or related degrees. This prestigious scholarship provides financial assistance, fostering academic achievement and leadership potential in advancing the HR profession.
Award/Amount: $1000
Deadline: September, annually

Human resources is broad, and professionals work in various positions and industries. Common career titles include human resources manager, training and development manager, and compensation and benefits manager. Regardless of the position an online MBA in HR graduate earns, most individuals work for businesses, corporations, or the government. While no amount of education guarantees any specific career title, salary, or position, an MBA in HR can lead to many positions, including the following.

In the Human Resources field, individuals, whether students or working professionals, frequently need to expand their knowledge and stay abreast of emerging market trends. HR practitioners should seize every chance to remain engaged with global HR communities, as these connections can provide valuable insights, current expertise, and effective problem-solving strategies. Here are some excellent resources for MBA in Human Resources graduates to start with:

• Association of MBAs¹⁷
  Established in 1967, the Association of MBAs connects MBA, DBA, and master’s degree holders who work in business. AMBA publishes industry research and information, and members can access career advice and a job board.
• Association for Talent Development¹⁸
  Created for those who develop talent, the Association for Talent Development connects professionals, shares innovative ideas, and publishes research. Members also gain access to an extensive job board.  
• International Association for Human Resources Information¹⁹
  Founded 40 years ago, IHRIM is a global leader providing certification, education, and professional development for human resources professionals. Along with these benefits, members also get invited to an annual conference. 
• National Black MBA Association²⁰
  The National Black MBA Association educates and empowers Black students, entrepreneurs, and professionals. NBMBAA provides scholarship opportunities, networking opportunities, and professional development.
• The Society for Human Resource Management²¹
  With over 300,000 members worldwide, SHRM is one of the largest organizations for HR graduates. SHRM provides certification, networking, and e-learning resources to members.