A Masters in Human Resources (MHR) is a graduate-level degree that focuses on the management of an organisation’s human capital.
The program provides students with a deep understanding of the various aspects of human resources, including staffing, recruitment, employee relations, compensation and benefits, training and development, and labor laws.
See: Get Ahead With A Masters in Business Administration Careers
What is Human Resources?
Human Resources is the department in an organization that is responsible for managing the workforce.
The department ensures that the company has the right people in the right positions and that they are motivated to perform their best.
HR professionals are responsible for recruiting and hiring new employees, managing employee benefits, handling employee grievances, developing and implementing employee training programs, and ensuring compliance with labor laws.
What is Masters in Human Resources?
A Masters in Human Resources is a graduate degree that provides students with an in-depth understanding of the various aspects of HR.
The program is designed for individuals who want to advance their careers in human resources or for those who want to enter the field.
The curriculum typically includes courses in organizational behavior, employment law, compensation and benefits, HR metrics, talent management, and leadership development.
Why You Should Get A Masters in Human Resources
If you are interested in a career in Human Resources, a Masters in Human Resources can provide you with a competitive edge. Here are some reasons why you should consider pursuing a Masters in Human Resources:
Better job prospects: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in human resources is projected to grow 7 percent from 2019 to 2029.
A Masters in Human Resources can help you stand out in a competitive job market and increase your chances of securing a high-paying job.
Higher earning potential: According to PayScale, the average salary for a Human Resources Manager with a Masters in Human Resources is $86,000 per year.
This is significantly higher than the average salary for a Human Resources Manager with just a Bachelor’s degree.
Expanded knowledge and skills: A Masters in Human Resources provides you with a comprehensive understanding of the various aspects of HR, including staffing, recruitment, employee relations, compensation and benefits, and training and development.
You will also learn about emerging trends in HR and gain skills in data analysis, strategic planning, and leadership.
Networking opportunities: A Masters in Human Resources program provides you with the opportunity to network with HR professionals, faculty members, and alumni.
You will have access to career fairs, workshops, and other events that can help you build your professional network and gain valuable industry insights.
Top 5 Universities that offer Masters in Human Resources
- Cornell University
- University of Michigan
- University of Pennsylvania
- University of Illinois
- Georgetown University
How Long Will it take to be Completed?
Most Masters in Human Resources programs take two years to complete. However, some programs may offer an accelerated one-year option or a part-time option that takes three to four years to complete.
The length of the program may also depend on whether the student opts for a thesis or non-thesis track.
In a thesis track, students conduct independent research and write a thesis, which can add an additional year to the program’s length.
To be eligible for a Masters in Human Resources program, students need to have a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as business, psychology, or social sciences.
Additionally, some programs may require students to have work experience in the HR field or to take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT).
Top Masters in Human Resources Jobs
Human Resources Manager
Human Resources Managers oversee the HR department and are responsible for implementing policies and procedures that support the organisation’s goals.
They are involved in talent management, employee relations, and training and development.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for Human Resources Managers was $121,220 in May 2020.
Training and Development Manager
Training and Development Managers are responsible for creating and implementing training programs to improve employee performance and productivity.
They work closely with Human Resources Managers to identify training needs and develop programs that align with the organisation’s goals.
The BLS reports that the median annual wage for Training and Development Managers was $115,640 in May 2020.
Labor Relations Specialist
Labor Relations Specialists are responsible for managing the relationship between the organization and its employees’ unions.
They negotiate collective bargaining agreements, handle grievances, and ensure compliance with labor laws and regulations.
The BLS reports that the median annual wage for Labor Relations Specialists was $70,820 in May 2020.
Compensation and Benefits Manager
Compensation and Benefits Managers design and implement compensation and benefits programs that attract and retain top talent.
They analyze market data to determine competitive pay and benefits packages and ensure compliance with legal requirements. The BLS reports that the median annual wage for Compensation and Benefits Managers was $125,130 in May 2020.
Human Resources Specialist
Human Resources Specialists work in various areas of HR, such as recruitment, training and development, or compensation and benefits. They may conduct interviews, review resumes, and make hiring decisions.
They also develop and implement HR policies and procedures and handle employee relations issues. The BLS reports that the median annual wage for Human Resources Specialists was $63,490 in May 2020.
Conclusion
A Masters in Human Resources provides graduates with the knowledge and skills required to manage human resources effectively.
The program takes two years to complete and prepares students for a variety of career paths, such as Human Resources Manager, Training and Development Manager, Labor Relations Specialist, Compensation and Benefits Manager, and Human Resources Specialist.
