Earning a human resources degree prepares learners to oversee organizations' employment-related functions. Human resources (HR) professionals perform many tasks, including recruiting, screening, and interviewing and placing workers. Students who enjoy online courses related to strategic human resource management, employee development, and strategic issues may want to pursue an online MBA in human resources.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), human resources managers earn a median annual salary of $121,220. The BLS projects jobs for these professionals to grow 6% between 2019-2029.
Read on to learn about online human resources degrees, including common courses and scholarship opportunities.
AffordableCollegesOnline.org 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.
Accredited Online College Programs
Explore our featured online programs and find the right match for you today.
Why Get a Degree in Human Resources?
An online human resources degree may appeal to current HR professionals who enjoy working with employees in an organization. Professionals who want to make a career change may also choose human resources if they enjoy training, employee relations, and employee development.
Human resources specialists earn a median annual salary of $63,490, according to the BLS. While these professionals do not typically need an MBA, earning an online MBA in human resources can help them advance in their career and boost their salary. For example, compensation and benefits managers earn a median annual salary of $125,130.
Online MBA graduates can often recoup the cost of their degree fairly quickly. Business school alumni earn a median cumulative base salary of $2.5 million over 20 years, according to the Graduate Management Admission Council.
Enrolling in an online MBA program offers many other benefits, including the ability to work and study at the same time.
How Much Does a Human Resources Degree Cost?
Tuition varies among public universities, private institutions, for-profit colleges, and nonprofit institutions. Online school degrees will typically cost less than in-person degrees, but also note distance learning fees, which vary, depending on the institution.
Online students may pay additional fees, depending on the institution. These fees could involve a one-time matriculation fee or a per-credit distance learning fee. Some schools may charge a distance education course fee, assessment and graduation fees, financial aid fees, technology fees, or capital improvement fees.
The average cost of graduate tuition and required fees cost $12,171 for public institutions in 2018-2019. Private institutions cost $25,929 on average in 2018-2019. However, tuition and fees vary depending on the institution. For example, Northwest Missouri State University charges $12,300 for its online MBA in human resources program. The tuition amount covers the cost for both in-state and out-of-state students.
Prospective students should ask colleges and universities in-depth questions about tuition and fees so they know what to expect before they make a final decision.
Calculating the Cost of a College Degree
Prospective students can use the calculation tool below to estimate how much they can spend on college tuition. Learners input their current income, cost of living, loans, expenses, and potential scholarship amounts. They can also enter the anticipated cost of equipment and supplies.
Break down your current financial situation, and receive a college tuition estimate you can afford to pay.
How Much Do Human Resources Majors Make?
Human resource specialists earn a median annual salary of $63,490, while human resources managers earn a median annual salary of $121,220. The BLS projects job opportunities in this field to grow 6% from 2019-2029.
A graduate degree in human resources offers a 33% increase in pay, as evidenced by the difference in salaries between a human resource specialist and a human resource manager.
Human resources professionals position themselves for career advancement through certifications. Professionals who hold titles like human resources manager, senior human resources consultant, operations managers, human resources directors, and employee relations managers can all qualify to earn a certification. Earning a certification showcases professionals' commitment to their careers and can help boost their income.
AffordableCollegesOnline.org 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.
Accredited Online College Programs
Explore our featured online programs and find the right match for you today.
Courses in Human Resources
Students pursuing an online human resources degree develop research and analytical skills through projects or a thesis. Specialized courses may also help learners further develop their expertise. While specific courses vary by school, most MBA in human resources programs include the courses below.
Human Resource Management
The course exposes students to current practices associated with workforce management. Learners study the legal aspects of managing employees, enforcing discipline, and implementing termination processes. The class reviews human resources management on a macro level and incorporates real-life examples to help students understand the role of human resources within an organization.Human Resource Metrics and Talent Analytics
The class introduces learners to techniques for developing human resource metrics and other performance measurement systems within organizations. Enrollees learn how to mine organizational data and how to manipulate research and quantitative data to yield organizational insights.Interpersonal Relations, Influence, and Ethical Leadership
The course analyzes communication challenges and difficult discussions many organizations face. Learners study the tenets of ethical leadership and engage in discussions on conflict resolution and negotiation. Enrollees also explore techniques for examining and resolving real workplace dilemmas.
Certifications and Licensure for Human Resources
Human resources certifications help employees showcase their commitment to human resources as a career and help them climb the corporate ladder. See below for some certifications that can help human resources professionals advance in their career.
HR professionals who implement policies and strategies may apply for the SHRM-CP exam. Professionals who serve as a point of contact for staff and stakeholders, deliver HR services, and perform operational HR functions may also take the exam. Those with a related graduate degree must currently serve in an HR role.
The PHR certification focuses on technical and operational aspects of HR management, including U.S. laws and regulations. Professionals need at least one year of experience in a professional-level HR position and a master's degree or higher.
The SPHR certification involves strategy and policy in HR management. Eligible professionals must meet one of the following conditions for education or experience: possess at least four years of experience in a professional-level HR position plus a master's degree or higher, possess at least five years of experience in a professional-level HR position plus a bachelor's degree, or possess at least seven years of experience in a professional-level HR position.
Scholarships for Human Resources
Students can help fund their MBA in human resources by applying for scholarships. Schools, organizations, and nonprofits offer merit-based scholarships and grants. See below for three opportunities open to HR degree-seekers.
BOTH Scholarship
Who Can Apply: MBA students from the African diaspora who attend an accredited university may apply. Students must major in a business-related degree, submit proof of enrollment, and provide a writing prompt. Applicants must also offer an example of their creative content.
Amount: $1,000
Explore Here
Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowship for New Americans
Who Can Apply: New Americans age 30 or younger may apply. Applicants must plan to start or continue an eligible full-time graduate program in the United States in the 2022-23 academic year. Applicants' birth parents both must have been born outside of the U.S. as non-U.S. citizens. Both parents must not have been eligible for U.S. citizenship at the time of their births.
Amount: $90,000
Explore Here
Beldon Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Learners pursuing a degree in business, management, marketing, or a related field, including human resources, may apply. Applicants need a minimum 3.5 GPA and must submit their official transcripts and an essay containing 1,500-2,000 words.
Amount: $1,000
Explore Here
Online MBA in Human Resources Programs
#1 Online MBA In Human Resources
Pittsburg State University
- Pittsburg, KS
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Kansas, Pittsburg State University educates degree-seekers through in-person and flexible online programs.
Degree-seekers interested in HR careers can pursue the MBA in human resources from the institution in a flexible online format. Learners currently employed in the field can pursue promotions or raises after earning their master's degree. Master's students can access support services such as academic advising, career-planning resources, and faculty mentorship.
The school's affordable tuition rates make it easier for enrollees to pursue graduate degrees. The institution holds accreditation, which means students can submit the FAFSA to receive federal grants and loans. Additional financial aid options include private scholarships and fellowships.
Pittsburg State University Fast Facts:
Students Receiving Aid: 94%
Students Receiving Loans: 54%
Total Master's Programs: 24
Total Online Master's Programs: 24
Transfer Credits Permitted: No
Percent Online Enrollment
47%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Online MBA In Human Resources
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
- Lafayette, LA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners throughout the country can pursue high-quality online graduate programs from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. In addition to educating students on campus, the public institution delivers six master's programs for online students. The school offers an MBA in human resource management for graduate degree-seekers. Students with personal or professional obligations often benefit from the online program's flexible scheduling options.
The master's program features core coursework, which helps learners prepare for high-level classes. Students gain theoretical and practical knowledge during experiential learning opportunities and elective classes. Full-time degree-seekers typically require 1-2 years to earn their master's degree in human resource management. Prospective applicants can contact an admissions advisor for exact application deadlines and requirements.
Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. Graduate learners pay an average in-state tuition rate of $5,511 and an average out-of-state tuition rate of $19,239. The school's average cost per credit is $388 for online master's programs. Enrollees at the accredited institution can qualify for federal grants and loans. At the school, 96% of students fund their education through financial aid.
Percent Online Enrollment
39%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Online MBA In Human Resources
Montclair State University
- Montclair, NJ
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A master's degree from Montclair State University prepares graduates for new career opportunities and advancement. In the MBA in HR management program, graduate students learn through a rigorous curriculum taught by experts. Distance learners work with advisors, IT professionals, and other support staff at the school. The online MBA program's curriculum incorporates video lectures, assignments, and class discussions.
As an accredited institution, the school can distribute federal financial aid. In addition to this online program, Montclair State University offers five other master's degrees.
Montclair State University Numbers:
Total Online Student Enrollment: 6,480
Online Master's Program Offerings: 6
Grad School Tuition: $12,600 in-state; $18,432 out-of-state
Average Student Aid: $10,725
Average Price With Aid: $15,890
The school holds accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Percent Online Enrollment
31%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#4 Online MBA In Human Resources
Northwest Missouri State University
- Maryville, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Northwest Missouri State University, a public institution located in Maryville, offers online undergraduate and graduate programs. Learners who want to maintain full-time employment while earning their degree can enroll in one of the school's online master's programs.
Degree-seekers interested in human resources can enroll in the online MBA in human resource management program. Learners who are new to the field and those with established human resources careers can benefit from the graduate program. The school provides support services, such as academic advising and career counseling, to support master's students' overall success.
Online enrollees benefit from affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding to further reduce their financial burden. Students with financial need can submit the FAFSA to apply for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. Learners may also fund their studies through scholarships and fellowships. Degree-seekers can transfer previous credits into their graduate program to minimize overall tuition costs.
Northwest Missouri State University Numbers:
Average Per-Credit Fee: $390
Students Receiving Aid: 98%
Students Receiving Loans: 54%
Total Master's Programs: 35
Total Online Master's Programs: 35
Transfer Credits Permitted: Yes
Percent Online Enrollment
39%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Online MBA In Human Resources
University of Mary
- Bismarck, ND
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Mary delivers online and in-person graduate programs from its Bismarck campus. Learners throughout the country can pursue an online MBA in human resource management from the private institution. The master's degree can qualify graduates for promotions to leadership positions.
Graduate students work with faculty advisors while earning their master's degree and preparing for careers. The program's rigorous curriculum features core and specialized classes that foster field-specific and transferable skills. Master's courses cover industry-relevant topics to strengthen analytical and leadership skills.
Learners pursuing their master's degree online benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates. Graduate degree-seekers can explore funding options with the help of the institution's financial aid counselors. The school supports online learners through affordable tuition rates and institutional awards.
University of Mary at a Glance:
Online Master's Programs: 31
Total Online Programs: 22
Number of Online Students: 1,682
Graduate Tuition In-State: $16,740
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $16,740
Offers Transfer Credits: No
Percent Online Enrollment
45%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#6 Online MBA In Human Resources
Wichita State University
- Wichita, KS
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Wichita State University leads in online learning programs. The accredited MBA in human resource management program offers a rigorous curriculum taught by experts. Prospective students can use test scores to bolster their application. Like on-campus students, distance learners work with advisors, IT support professionals, and other support staff. The virtual classroom setting lets learners interact with faculty and peers.
The institution reports that 89% of degree-seekers receive financial aid and 45% take out loans. In addition to this online program, Wichita State University offers eight other master's degrees.
Wichita State University Numbers:
Enrolled Online Students: 7,796
Online Master's Options: 9
Graduate School Tuition Rate: $5,435 in-state; $13,348 out-of-state
Average Aid Per Student: $5,387
Average Price With Aid: $13,849
The school holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.
Percent Online Enrollment
51%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#7 Online MBA In Human Resources
Maryville University
- Saint Louis, MO
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Saint Louis, Missouri, Maryville University educates undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers on campus and online. Distance learners can pursue 29 master's programs online.
Degree-seekers interested in HR careers can pursue the MBA in human resources management from the institution in a flexible online format. The master's program can benefit learners who are new to the field and those with established careers. Student support services, including faculty mentorship and career counseling, help learners succeed academically and professionally.
Online enrollees at the school pay affordable tuition rates. Students at the accredited institution can qualify for federal grants and loans. Additional financial aid options to help learners fund their master's studies include private scholarships and fellowships.
Maryville University Numbers:
Average Tuition Per Credit: $739
Students Receiving Aid: 99%
Students Receiving Loans: 79%
Total Master's Programs: 29
Total Online Master's Programs: 29
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Percent Online Enrollment
76%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#8 Online MBA In Human Resources
University of Southern Indiana
- Evansville, IN
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Southern Indiana offers an online MBA program for distance learners. The university enrolls 3,854 students in its online courses. The school offers an online MBA in human resources program. The accredited curriculum delivers a rigorous course of study valued by employers. The program emphasizes advanced skills and knowledge for HR careers. Degree-seekers benefit from a student-to-faculty ratio of 17-to-1, giving students one-on-one attention from faculty.
Students can learn more about online support services at the school's website. Learners pay affordable tuition rates and receive financial aid. This helps graduate students afford the master's degree with less debt. The institution reports a graduation rate of 50% for its programs.
University of Southern Indiana Numbers:
Total Online Enrollment: 5,785
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 4
Average Cost Per Credit: $430
Graduate Tuition: $9,486/year in-state, $18,528/year out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $6,249
Average Net Price: $13,360
The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Percent Online Enrollment
54%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#9 Online MBA In Human Resources
Union University
- Jackson, TN
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Union University delivers undergraduate and graduate programs from its Jackson campus. The school offers online master's programs, which often benefit learners with personal or professional responsibilities.
The institution's online MBA in human resource management provides a flexible option for degree-seekers interested in HR. The program prepares learners to enter the job market or advance their current career. The school offers students access to faculty mentorship and career counseling.
The university charges online enrollees affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. The institution holds accreditation, which means students with financial need can qualify for federal grants and loans. Learners can also pay for their degree with scholarships, institutional aid, and other forms of financial aid.
Union University Facts:
Students Receiving Aid: 100%
Students Receiving Loans: 81%
Total Master's Programs: 20
Total Online Master's Programs: 20
Awards Transfer Credits: No
Percent Online Enrollment
39%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Online MBA In Human Resources
Anderson University
- Anderson, SC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in South Carolina, Anderson University offers undergraduate and graduate programs. At the private institution, learners can earn their online MBA in human resource management. HR professionals often maintain employment while enrolled in the flexible program.
Faculty advisors help master's students examine complex issues and develop a strong overall understanding of the field. The program features a rigorous curriculum that helps enrollees develop transferable skills and specialized knowledge. Master's students develop industry-specific analytical and leadership skills.
Affordable tuition rates and institutional funding make pursuing graduate studies easier for many learners. Financial aid counselors help degree-seekers understand funding options and reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
Anderson University Fast Facts:
Online Master's Programs: 16
Total Online Programs: 11
Number of Online Students: 1,545
Graduate Tuition In-State: $9,651
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $9,651
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Percent Online Enrollment
44%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
FAQ About Online MBA in Human Resources
Is a master of business administration (MBA) in human resources worth it?
An MBA in human resources offers a comprehensive curriculum that can increase learners' career opportunities. Graduates refine their skills in employee engagement, conflict resolution, employment law, and strategic management. This degree can also lead to increased salaries.
Is human resources a good career?
This growth-oriented field provides strong employment and advancement opportunities. This field can also offer employees high job satisfaction.
How long does it take to get an MBA in human resources?
An MBA in human resources takes approximately 18 months to complete, with eight-week terms. Some schools offer an accelerated or flexible MBA that includes weekends.
What kind of jobs can I get with a human resources degree?
Professionals in upper-level human resources roles may work as development specialists, training and development managers, compensation specialists, benefits managers, and labor relations specialists.
Reviewed by
