An MBA in human resource management covers core business principles while exploring the complex responsibilities of human resource professionals, including compensation and benefits, labor laws, and training and development.
As organizations become more diverse and global, managing and serving employees' needs can become more difficult. Human resource managers can meet these needs by shaping company culture, developing fair salary structures, and improving hiring and code of conduct practices.
Discover the benefits that come with this degree and the pathways it can deliver. You'll also find a ranking of the best MBA in human resource management programs and tips on choosing the best option for you.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best MBA Programs for Human Resources
#1 Earn a Top MBA in Human Resource Management
Purdue University-Main Campus
- West Lafayette, IN
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Purdue University is a public institution located in West Lafayette, Indiana. The school was founded in 1869 and named after businessman John Purdue. It is an original member of the Big Ten Conference.
Online MBA with a Human Resources Concentration
Purdue Global's online MBA program with a concentration in human resources prepares students for leadership roles within the human resources industry. The program's HR concentration aligns with the curricular guidelines for the Society for Human Resource Management.
Enrollees complete 60 credit hours of core MBA classes, including financial management, business communications, and marketing management. They then complete 16 credits in the human resources concentration.
To help them land jobs after graduation, learners can access Purdue's career advancement center, which includes resources like resume reviews, virtual job fairs, and networking opportunities.
Purdue Global's Affordability
Purdue's human resources MBA program charges $485 per credit. 76 credits are required for graduation. Students that attended Purdue Global's undergraduate business program can apply for an accelerated MBA option.
Students enrolled in Purdue Global's online MBA program are eligible for a variety of financial aid options, including grants, scholarships, and federal loans. The school also offers tuition reduction and assistance programs for active-duty service members, veterans, and international students.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: HLC; ACBSP
- Tuition: $485/credit
- Required Credits: 76 credits
- Program Length: 2.5 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online
- Admissions
- Process: Applicants need a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Prospective students submit transcripts, a resume, and an application.
- Cost: Free
Percent Online Enrollment
82%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Earn a Top MBA in Human Resource Management
Averett University-Non-Traditional Programs
- Danville, VA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Averett University is a private school in Danville, Virginia. The institution serves almost 1,500 students, with almost 600 enrolled in online programs. Averett offers over 30 undergraduate majors and five master's programs.
Online Human Resource Management MBA
The online human resource management MBA at Averett University is designed to help working professionals gain executive-level knowledge in business and human resources. Courses run in eight-week blocks, and learners take 1-2 classes each term.
Enrollees take MBA core classes including organizational behavior, marketing strategies, and managerial economics. The human resource management concentration consists of three courses: compensation and benefits, recruiting, and labor laws.
The program is offered 100% online in an asynchronous format, which means learners do not meet for prescheduled course meetings. Students can complete weekly assignments and respond to required group discussions on a more flexible timeline.
Averett's Affordability
Tuition for Averett's online HR MBA costs $655 per credit. The program is accelerated, with most students graduating in fewer than two years. Averett enrollees can connect with the school's financial aid counselors to learn about scholarships, grants, and loans to help pay for their education.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
- Tuition: $655/credit
- Required Credits: 40 credits
- Program Length: 2 years or fewer
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
- Admissions
- Process: Prospective students complete an admission application. They submit official transcripts and a copy of a valid government ID.
- GPA: 3.0 in the last 60 credit hours of undergraduate study
- Cost: Free
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Earn a Top MBA in Human Resource Management
Southern New Hampshire University
- Manchester, NH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University is a private not-for-profit school that offers a mix of traditional and online degree programs. The school currently enrolls over 3,000 students on campus and more than 170,000 online learners.
Online MBA with a Human Resources Concentration
Southern New Hampshire University offers an accelerated online MBA degree that students can complete in one year. The institution offers multiple MBA concentrations, including human resources.
The program includes seven core courses and three HR concentration courses. All classes include scenario-based learning to help students practice course content in real-world contexts.
In addition to the school's faculty, enrollees learn from industry leaders through guest lectures. The degree helps prepare learners for industry credentials and certificates, which they can earn as they complete the program.
SNHU's Affordability
The total tuition cost for SNHU's human resources MBA program is $18,810. Tuition discounts are available for active-duty military and their spouses. Online students at SNHU may qualify for scholarships and loans.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: NECHE; ACBSP
- Tuition: $627/credit
- Required Credits: 30 credits
- Program Length: 1 year
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
- Admissions
- Process: Prospective students submit an application online, which includes undergraduate transcripts.
- Cost: Free
Students Enrolled
134,345
Percent Online Enrollment
96%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#4 Earn a Top MBA in Human Resource Management
California State University-Stanislaus
- Turlock, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Stanislaus State is one of 23 schools in the California State University system. The college is located in Turlock, California. The university offers multiple master's programs, including an MBA.
MBA with a Concentration in Human Resource Management
The Stanislaus State human resource management MBA is an accredited online program designed to meet the needs of working professionals and executives. Courses are run asynchronously to offer maximum flexibility.
The HR concentration helps prepare students to earn certifications from the Society for Human Resource Management or the HR Certification Institute. The skills learners develop can qualify them for operational, strategic, and administrative human resource roles.
Enrollees take three concentration courses alongside their core MBA classes. Available HR classes include compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and strategic human resource management.
Stanislaus State's Affordability
The total tuition for the online MBA program with an HR concentration is $27,600. The CSU system also offers a graduate equity fellowship program for CSU students, which Stanislaus State graduate students may qualify for.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: WSCUC, AACSB
- Tuition: $920/credit
- Required Credits: 30 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
- Admissions
- Process: The application process includes an admissions application, a resume detailing at least two years of work experience, a statement of purpose, unofficial undergraduate transcripts, and two recommendations.
- GPA: 2.8
- Cost: $70
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#5 Earn a Top MBA in Human Resource Management
University of North Texas
- Denton, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of North Texas is based in Denton, Texas. In addition to the main campus, the school also offers classes online and through their Frisco campus.
Online MBA with an Organizational Behavior and Human Resources Concentration
The online MBA program with an organizational behavior and human resources concentration at the University of North Texas is a 36-credit program that can be completed in as few as 14 months with the accelerated track. Students take 12 classes, including eight core MBA courses and four concentration courses.
Students learn about a variety of human resources skills, including labor relations, hiring, and compensation. They also study organizational change and leadership.
The MBA program is 100% online with three terms: fall, spring, and summer. Some of the classes are available at the school's Denton or Frisco campuses for enrollees seeking a hybrid learning experience.
UNT's Affordability
In-state students at UNT only pay $175 per credit, while out-of-state online learners pay $475 per credit.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: SACSCOC, AACSB
- Tuition: $175/credit (in-state); $475/credit (out-of-state)
- Required Credits: 36 credits
- Program Length: 14 months
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous); hybrid
- Admissions
- Process: Prospective students submit an application, test scores, three letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and transcripts.
- Standardized Tests: GRE or GMAT (waivers available)
- Cost: $75
Percent Online Enrollment
72%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
How We Choose Programs
At OnlineMBA.com, we rely on reputable sources to rank the best MBA programs. We use trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) to find standout programs. We consider four metrics: affordability, reputation, academics, and program availability.
This list has not been updated for 2024. Visit our rankings methodology page to learn more about how we rank programs.
Why Get a Human Resources MBA Degree?
Professional Options: With an MBA in human resource management, you can pursue careers in many business fields, including human resources, labor relations, and training and development. Your widely applicable skills can also help you pursue general management positions in various organizations and industries.
Salary Potential: The specialized skills acquired in an MBA in human resource management can set you up for several financially rewarding careers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), management occupations earned a median annual wage of $116,880 as of May 2023. Several HR management-related careers earned considerably more.
General Management Skills: MBAs in human resource management teach ways to develop and oversee a strong staff with a welcoming organizational culture. Graduates can apply these useful abilities in many leadership roles.
Organizational Development: Throughout your MBA program, you may learn to develop policies, practices, and culture within an organization. You'll study how to recruit, interview, and hire employees, as well as support professionals' ongoing improvement. These abilities are critical to building an organization and helping it thrive.
Jobs for MBAs in Human Resources
The leadership, communication, and critical thinking skills you'll acquire in a n MBA in human resource management can help you land one of the many high-paying management job openings that the BLS projects from 2022-2032.
Combining professional experience with your MBA may allow you to pursue some of the highest-earning careers in business, including the options below.
Human Resources Manager
HR managers oversee many administrative functions related to organizations' employees, conduct policies, and organizational culture. Their responsibilities may include recruitment and staffing, conflict resolution, and managing the relations between the organization's staff and management. Some employers only hire candidates with graduate degrees, including MBAs.
- Job Outlook (2022-32): +5%
- Median Annual Salary: $136,350
Source: BLS
Compensation and Benefits Manager
Compensation and benefits managers plan and oversee an organization's pay and benefits programs. They align the programs with industry standards, organizational goals and policies, and federal and state regulations. They often work closely with HR and financial managers.
- Job Outlook (2022-32): +2%
- Median Annual Salary: $136,380
Source: BLS
Labor Relations Specialist
Labor relations specialists manage the relationship between management and workers, which may include handling contract disputes, misconduct investigations, and incidents regarding labor laws. They also develop conduct policies, negotiate with labor unions, and consult with employee advocacy groups. They might handle all labor relations cases within an organization or consult management for special events.
- Job Outlook (2022-32): -1%
- Median Annual Salary: $89,980
Source: BLS
Training and Development Manager
Training and development managers plan, create, and lead organizational training programs. They develop training exercises to help upskill staff members, help organizations meet goals, and introduce new policies and practices. Some employers require these managers to hold master's degrees or MBAs.
- Job Outlook (2022-32): +6%
- Median Annual Salary: $125,040
Source: BLS
What to Expect From MBA in HR Management Programs
In addition to advanced management concepts and practices, an MBA in human resource management explores methods for creating and managing strong organizational processes and cultures. In this program, you can learn to comply with labor laws and mediate communication between management and their staff.
An MBA in human resource management typically features between 30-60 credits, requiring about two years to complete. According to the NCES, the average graduate program costs $20,513 per year, but MBA programs may cost more than general master's degrees in some schools.
Since many people consider an MBA a terminal degree, you may not need to worry about transfer credits. In any case, you should stick to an accredited MBA school if you plan to pursue a doctorate, such as a DBA.
Degree and Format Options
You may encounter similar degrees under different names, such as an MBA in human resources, which shares many similarities with a management program. Other related degrees include master's in human resources, master's in human relations, and master's in management programs. While these options explore similar topics, they may focus more on HR theory and less on business management applications.
The various delivery methods and formats of an MBA in human resource management can affect your study schedule and educational experience. For example:
- Online asynchronous programs offer ultimate flexibility but tend to feature less peer-to-peer engagement and collaboration.
- Synchronous online classes may use evening and weekend classes, but the scheduled class times might hinder some busy or working students.
- Hybrid programs combine online and in-class experiences but require you to live within commuting distance of your school.
- Accelerated one-year MBA programs promise faster completion times, but they may have more rigorous course loads and study schedules.
Admissions Process
The MBA admissions process varies by school and program, but most schools require the following:
- Bachelor's degree (possibly in a business-related discipline)
- Minimum GPA, such as a 3.0 GPA
- Suitable GMAT or GRE scores (may be optional)
- Recommendation letters
- Application essay
- Resume
- Relevant professional experience (often two years)
- Application fee
Popular Courses
Your degree may look different depending on where you study and your specific choices, but most programs feature courses in business fundamentals, specializations, electives, and a final capstone project.
This section explores common courses for an MBA in human resource management.
-
Talent Management: This course teaches you to identify, hire, and manage employees. You can explore effective onboarding processes, performance appraisal and reward systems, and training and development practices.
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Bargaining and Negotiations: In this course, you study ways to arrive at positive outcomes for everyone involved in negotiations. Coursework typically focuses on developing ethical negotiation skills.
-
Compensation and Employee Benefits: This course examines the framework for compensation and employee benefit programs in organizations. You can learn to evaluate employees and develop fair compensation programs.
-
Labor Relations: In this course, you learn how to manage the relationship between employees, unions, and employers. You may research union and labor laws, collective bargaining processes, and effective resolution practices.
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Capstone: These culminating courses bring together the theories and practices learned throughout the program, allowing you to demonstrate your understanding of the material. You may develop an HR management plan, consult on a real-world project, or analyze a complex case study.
Program Costs
The cost of an MBA in human resource management depends on many factors, including the school type, location, and delivery format. According to the NCES, the average graduate tuition was $11,554 in public schools and $20,015 in nonprofit private schools for the 2021-2022 academic year.
Depending on the school, MBA programs may cost more than standard graduate programs because of the demand or the faculty. You may also incur additional costs during your studies, such as transportation, books and materials, and room and board costs. If you study online, you may save on certain fees and tuition, particularly if you're pursuing an out-of-state degree.
You might also make your MBA in human resource management more affordable by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA can qualify you for federal aid through grants and low-interest loans. You can also apply for MBA scholarships or ask your employer if they offer a tuition reimbursement program.
Should You Get a Human Resources MBA or a General MBA?
You might be unsure about whether to pursue a specialization within your MBA. An MBA in human resource management may only differ from a general MBA in a few courses. Some schools add specializations on top of the general MBA, while others replace elective courses.
Both programs cover core business management principles. The specialization then explores the application of those principles to the human resources field, making it a strong choice if you know that you want to pursue employment in that sector.
Human Resource Management MBAs vs. General MBAs
| Factor |
Human Resources MBA |
General MBA |
| Program Length |
About two years of full-time study, plus one semester for the specialization in some cases |
About two years of full-time study |
| Course Load |
Up to 60 credits |
Up to 60 credits |
| Curriculum |
Benefits and compensation management, workforce management, labor law, conflict resolution |
Managerial accounting, strategic marketing, financial management, supply chain management |
| Program Focus |
Learn to apply advanced business management skills and expertise to the human resources sector |
Gain advanced business management skills and expertise in several of the core business functions |
| Admission Requirements |
Bachelor's degree, plus professional experience in many cases |
Bachelor's degree, plus professional experience in many cases |
| Student Demographics |
Aspiring business leaders and experienced HR specialists looking to advance their careers |
Aspiring business leaders and experienced business workers looking to advance professionally |
How Do You Select the Right MBA in Human Resources?
When choosing an MBA program, you should evaluate the factors that mean the most to you. Take a look at the following considerations to get the ball rolling.
- Professional Goals: Try to find a school and program that supports your unique career interests. Perhaps it offers classes in your target niche, or the professor has a professional link to that subject.
- Location and Delivery Method: If you need to attend classes or visit the campus a couple of times, you should consider the school's location. While it won't matter much for a fully online program, you still need to ensure that the delivery modes and class times work with your schedule.
- Learning Style: Online learning can be flexible but less engaging than on-campus programs. Some programs take practice-based approaches, and some emphasize networking and group projects. Consider how you learn best and find a program that aligns with your preferred style.
- Program Structure: Would you prefer a full-time, part-time, or accelerated program?When comparing structures, research components like internship, mentorship, and global experience opportunities.
More FAQ About MBAs in Human Resource Management
What is an MBA in human resource management?
An MBA in human resource management is an advanced business management degree focused on effectively managing an organization's employees. The program teaches you to apply management principles to the various roles and responsibilities of human resources managers.
Is an online MBA in human resources worth it?
Depending on your career goals, an online MBA in human resources can offer a worthwhile investment. According to the latest recruiter's survey from the Graduate Management Admission Council, MBA salaries continued to increase in 2023, while salaries for several other management graduate degrees decreased.
How much does a human resources MBA program cost?
An MBA in human resources typically costs the same as a general MBA. According to the NCES, the average graduate tuition was $20,015 during the 2021-2022 academic year. That puts the average two-year program at $40,030.
Are there disadvantages to getting an MBA in human resources?
An MBA in human resources requires a significant investment of your time and money, and there's no guarantee it will lead you to the career you want. While you can still use this degree to pursue careers outside human resources, specializing may also limit your flexibility compared to a general MBA.
The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by OnlineMBA.com. Page last reviewed Jun 8, 2024.
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