Best Online Master’s in Human Resources Programs of 2025

Q: Which HR concentrations can I pursue in a master's program?

Common HR specializations, also known as concentrations, include recruitment, compensation and benefits, training and development, labor and employee relations, and HR information systems management.

Q: What coursework does an MS in human resources include?

Popular courses in an online master's in human resources include human resources strategy, organizational culture and employee outcomes, and leadership in human resources. Students may also take courses related to business ethics and their chosen concentration or specialization.

A master’s degree in human resources can help advance your career. Discover some of the top-ranked online master’s in human resources programs.

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Updated April 24, 2025

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Human resources is one of the most valuable assets in a company. As an HR professional, you will be in charge of managing the entire employee lifecycle, including recruitment, hiring, development, benefits, and programs.

An online master’s in human resources is a flexible and affordable way to advance your career. These programs can help you hone crucial skills to excel in the field, such as talent acquisition and management, employee relations, compensation and benefits administration and training and development. Additionally, they may also enhance your soft skills, such as leadership, discernment and communication.

We’ve compiled a list of the top online human resources master’s programs available to help you make an informed decision and level up your career.

Master’s in HR Highlights

A master’s degree in human resources can elevate your career by preparing you for leadership positions and increasing your salary potential.
These programs typically take 2-3 years to complete, though some schools offer accelerated options.
An advanced HR degree can help you hone your skills in specialized areas of HR, such as recruitment, compensation and benefits, or training and development.

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In this Article

Best Online Master’s in Human Resources Programs

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.

How We Rank Schools

To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.

To qualify for our rankings lists, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each eligible school was then ranked based on a formula measuring:

2025

Affordability (30%)
Student outcomes (30%)
Reputation (20%)
Diversity and social mobility (20%)

In addition, we only included colleges with graduation rates in the top third of all online colleges.

Rutgers University-New Brunswick

New Brunswick, NJ4 yearCampus + Online

$18,696

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$31,800

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

65%

Acceptance Rate

46%

Online Enrollment

Why We Chose This School

The online master's in human resource management (MHRM) degree program from Rutgers University is perfect for human resource professionals who have four or more years of experience.

This program, led by distinguished faculty, combines human resources practices with organizational strategy to prepare you for senior roles. You'll take core classes, three electives, and complete a capstone project. The program has four start dates throughout the year and is 100% online. It can be completed in as little as 18 months.

Highlights

Top-ranked university
No GRE/GMAT scores required

Know Before You Apply

Requires prior HR experience

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$13,674

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$32,436

Retention Rate

93%

Students Enrolled

50,617

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$18,696

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$31,800

Rutgers University-New Brunswick

New Brunswick, NJ4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$18,696

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$31,800

Acceptance Rate

65%

Online Enrollment

46%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$13,674

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$32,436

Retention Rate

93%

Students Enrolled

50,617

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Why We Chose This School

The online master's in human resource management (MHRM) degree program from Rutgers University is perfect for human resource professionals who have four or more years of experience.

Highlights

Top-ranked university
No GRE/GMAT scores required

Know Before You Apply

Requires prior HR experience

George Washington University

Washington, DC4 yearCampus + Online

$33,930

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$33,930

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

44%

Acceptance Rate

25%

Online Enrollment

Why We Chose This School

George Washington University's master of human resource management (MHRM) degree is a 30-credit program that is offered as an online or hybrid program to fit your schedule. The program academically aligns with the Society for Human Resource Management, which makes it a top choice for anyone who's seeking an advanced career in human resources.

You will study human capital management, including topics of diversity and inclusion, leadership, and employee development. Elective courses include conflict management, employment law, and talent development.

Highlights

Full or part-time enrollment
Flexible format

Know Before You Apply

Competitive admissions process
Higher tuition costs

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$60,856

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$60,856

Retention Rate

92%

Students Enrolled

25,568

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$33,930

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$33,930

George Washington University

Washington, DC4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$33,930

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$33,930

Acceptance Rate

44%

Online Enrollment

25%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$60,856

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$60,856

Retention Rate

92%

Students Enrolled

25,568

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Why We Chose This School

Highlights

Full or part-time enrollment
Flexible format

Know Before You Apply

Competitive admissions process
Higher tuition costs

Georgetown University

Washington, DC4 yearCampus + Online

$56,592

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$56,592

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

13%

Acceptance Rate

24%

Online Enrollment

Why We Chose This School

Georgetown University offers an online master's degree in human resources management ideal for working professionals seeking to advance their human resources careers. The curriculum can be completed part time. The program focuses on leadership and ethical decision-making, and aligning human resources strategies with organizational goals.

As an online student, you have access to the university's career center and professional development workshops. You can also participate in program-specific networking and industry events.

Highlights

Strong alumni network
Career development opportunities

Know Before You Apply

Takes 2-5 years to complete
Higher tuition costs

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$61,872

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$61,872

Retention Rate

97%

Students Enrolled

20,392

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$56,592

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$56,592

Georgetown University

Washington, DC4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$56,592

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$56,592

Acceptance Rate

13%

Online Enrollment

24%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$61,872

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$61,872

Retention Rate

97%

Students Enrolled

20,392

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Why We Chose This School

As an online student, you have access to the university's career center and professional development workshops. You can also participate in program-specific networking and industry events.

Highlights

Strong alumni network
Career development opportunities

Know Before You Apply

Takes 2-5 years to complete
Higher tuition costs

New York University

New York, NY4 yearCampus + Online

$37,332

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$37,332

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

Acceptance Rate

31%

Online Enrollment

Why We Chose This School

New York University offers a comprehensive master of science degree in human capital management that teaches you strategic skills in managing talent in global organizations. The courses focus on management principles, business ethics, and organizational behavior.

You can complete this program 100% online or in a hybrid format, either full- or part-time. It requires a five-day immersion period that introduces you to executive coaching and organizational consulting practices, which can be completed in person or online. Your program concludes with a capstone project or research thesis.

Highlights

Flexible learning options
Designed for working professionals

Know Before You Apply

Limited in-person interaction
Time commitment

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$55,384

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$55,384

Retention Rate

96%

Students Enrolled

57,335

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$37,332

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$37,332

New York University

New York, NY4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$37,332

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$37,332

Acceptance Rate

Online Enrollment

31%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$55,384

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$55,384

Retention Rate

96%

Students Enrolled

57,335

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Why We Chose This School

Highlights

Flexible learning options
Designed for working professionals

Know Before You Apply

Limited in-person interaction
Time commitment

Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY4 yearCampus + Online

$52,016

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$52,016

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

Acceptance Rate

14%

Online Enrollment

Why We Chose This School

Columbia University in New York offers a part-time master of science degree in human capital management that will prepare you to handle organizational human capital challenges. The program is flexible, with online and on-campus options. Most of the classes are offered in the evening, which works well with your schedule if you're a working professional.

The program lasts six terms, with coursework focusing on talent acquisition, development and retention, and workforce management. After graduation, you'll enjoy lifelong career guidance and be part of a global alumni network.

Highlights

Ongoing career support
Part-time format

Know Before You Apply

Higher tuition cost

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$61,989

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$61,989

Retention Rate

97%

Students Enrolled

29,661

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$52,016

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$52,016

Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$52,016

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$52,016

Acceptance Rate

Online Enrollment

14%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$61,989

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$61,989

Retention Rate

97%

Students Enrolled

29,661

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Why We Chose This School

Highlights

Ongoing career support
Part-time format

Know Before You Apply

Higher tuition cost

Clemson University

Clemson, SC4 yearCampus + Online

$10,858

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$22,566

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

38%

Acceptance Rate

44%

Online Enrollment

Why We Chose This School

Clemson University offers a master of human resource development (MHRD) degree that focuses on enhancing individual and organizational performance in businesses and nonprofits of all kinds. Your courses will cover leadership, ethics, adult education, strategy, and diversity.

This program is designed for working professionals and can be completed in eight-week courses across five semesters. You can choose from several degree concentrations, including comprehensive human resource development, athletic leadership, and learning leadership.

Prior experience or coursework in human resource development is not required, but work experience is highly preferred.

Highlights

Specialized concentrations
Experienced faculty

Know Before You Apply

Dependence on technology
Self-discipline requirement

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$14,118

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$37,982

Retention Rate

93%

Students Enrolled

28,747

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$10,858

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$22,566

Clemson University

Clemson, SC4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$10,858

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$22,566

Acceptance Rate

38%

Online Enrollment

44%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$14,118

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$37,982

Retention Rate

93%

Students Enrolled

28,747

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Why We Chose This School

Prior experience or coursework in human resource development is not required, but work experience is highly preferred.

Highlights

Specialized concentrations
Experienced faculty

Know Before You Apply

Dependence on technology
Self-discipline requirement

Stony Brook University

Stony Brook, NY4 yearCampus + Online

$11,310

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$23,100

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

49%

Acceptance Rate

62%

Online Enrollment

Why We Chose This School

Stony Brook University offers a 30-credit online master's degree in human resource management that can accommodate your busy schedule so that you can learn at your own pace.

The program aligns with the standards of the Society for Human Resource Management and includes courses on organizational behavior, leadership, labor relations, and strategic HR management. You can choose to take an optional internship course that requires 45 hours, and you will finish the program with a capstone course.

Once completed, career paths can include human resource manager or director, training and development manager, labor or employee relations manager, or benefits manager.

Highlights

Accelerated format can be completed in 18 months
Optional internship option

Know Before You Apply

Time management skills requirement
Limited opportunities for interaction with classmates

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$7,070

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$26,860

Retention Rate

89%

Students Enrolled

25,865

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$11,310

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$23,100

Stony Brook University

Stony Brook, NY4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$11,310

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$23,100

Acceptance Rate

49%

Online Enrollment

62%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$7,070

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$26,860

Retention Rate

89%

Students Enrolled

25,865

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Why We Chose This School

Stony Brook University offers a 30-credit online master's degree in human resource management that can accommodate your busy schedule so that you can learn at your own pace.

Once completed, career paths can include human resource manager or director, training and development manager, labor or employee relations manager, or benefits manager.

Highlights

Accelerated format can be completed in 18 months
Optional internship option

Know Before You Apply

Time management skills requirement
Limited opportunities for interaction with classmates

Florida International University

Miami, FL4 yearCampus + Online

$911

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$2,003

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

59%

Acceptance Rate

67%

Online Enrollment

Why We Chose This School

Florida International University's online master's degree in human resource management is a 12-month program that's ideal for working professionals. This program is designed to prepare you to accelerate your career and take on a leadership role.

Instructors are practitioners in the field and the program is aligned with the Society for Human Resource Management's (SHRM) standards. It will also prepare you to take human resource professional certification exams.

Highlights

Accelerated format
Multiple start dates

Know Before You Apply

Higher tuition cost
Requires strong self-motivation

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$6,168

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$18,566

Retention Rate

92%

Students Enrolled

54,085

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$911

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$2,003

Florida International University

Miami, FL4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$911

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$2,003

Acceptance Rate

59%

Online Enrollment

67%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$6,168

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$18,566

Retention Rate

92%

Students Enrolled

54,085

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Why We Chose This School

Highlights

Accelerated format
Multiple start dates

Know Before You Apply

Higher tuition cost
Requires strong self-motivation

Pepperdine University

Malibu, CA4 yearCampus + Online

$39,100

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$39,100

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

50%

Acceptance Rate

42%

Online Enrollment

Why We Chose This School

Pepperdine University's online master's in human resources is available in a flexible, online format with live weekly classes. As part of your program, you will participate in two on-campus immersions in Los Angeles.

The curriculum, which aligns with the Society for Human Resource Management's (SHRM) standards, will provide you with skills in talent management, communication, DEI practices, and business strategy. No GMAT/GRE scores are required for application. The program can be completed in as fast as 16 months.

Highlights

Small class size
No GMAT/GRE scores required
Large global alumni network

Know Before You Apply

Higher tuition costs
Two on-campus immersions in Los Angeles

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$62,390

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$62,390

Retention Rate

86%

Students Enrolled

9,545

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$39,100

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$39,100

Pepperdine University

Malibu, CA4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$39,100

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$39,100

Acceptance Rate

50%

Online Enrollment

42%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$62,390

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$62,390

Retention Rate

86%

Students Enrolled

9,545

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Why We Chose This School

Highlights

Small class size
No GMAT/GRE scores required
Large global alumni network

Know Before You Apply

Higher tuition costs
Two on-campus immersions in Los Angeles

#10

Purdue University-Main Campus

West Lafayette, IN4 yearCampus + Online

$9,718

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$28,520

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

50%

Acceptance Rate

35%

Online Enrollment

Why We Chose This School

Purdue University's online master's degree in human resources management is offered completely online, allowing you to round out your human resources skills from anywhere in the world. This program is designed for working professionals who want to advance their human resources careers.

Purdue's program emphasizes strategic human resource management, as well as organizational behavior and leadership. Your human resources courses can be supplemented with free elective courses, including intellectual property strategies, strategic management, and financial management. The program can be completed in as little as 24 months.

Highlights

Networking opportunities
Experienced faculty

Know Before You Apply

Higher tuition cost
Limited interaction with your classmates

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$9,208

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$28,010

Retention Rate

91%

Students Enrolled

52,211

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$9,718

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$28,520

Purdue University-Main Campus

West Lafayette, IN4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$9,718

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$28,520

Acceptance Rate

50%

Online Enrollment

35%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$9,208

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$28,010

Retention Rate

91%

Students Enrolled

52,211

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Why We Chose This School

Highlights

Networking opportunities
Experienced faculty

Know Before You Apply

Higher tuition cost
Limited interaction with your classmates

Why You Should Get a Master’s Degree in Human Resources

Develop Specialized Expertise: A master’s degree in human resources can teach you skills for specialized HR areas, such as recruitment or compensation and benefits.
Increased Earning Potential: A master’s degree can lead to higher-paying positions.
Qualify for Senior Positions: An advanced degree in human resources can open the door to leadership roles, such as human resources director or chief human resources officer (CHRO).

Benefits of Getting a Master’s in Human Resources Online

According to our 2024 BestColleges Online Education Trends Report, 81% of online business students and graduates say an online learning environment is equal to or better than learning on campus.
Nearly all (97%) online business students and graduates say they would recommend online education to others.
More than 90% of online business students say their degree has had or will have a positive return on investment.

How to Choose the Best Human Resources Master’s Program for You

There are several factors to consider when evaluating an online human resources master’s program, including cost, program length, application requirements, and career outlook.

Cost and Financial Aid
Program Length
Application Requirements
Careers

How Much Does a Master’s in Human Resources Cost?

Master’s in Business, Management, and Marketing, 2019-2020

Online Avg. Tuition & Fees

$10,995

In-Person Avg. Tuition & Fees

$21,974

Source: NCES PowerStats

The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) found that an online master’s degree in business, management, and marketing (which includes HR programs) cost about $11,000 in tuition and fees for the 2019–20 school year. In contrast, the cost for an in-person program was double that – nearly $22,000.

There are several financial aid options that could help lower the cost of your master’s degree, including the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), loans, grants, work-study programs, and scholarships.

Human resources graduate students can also take advantage of special scholarships, such as the PSHRA Graduate Study Fellowship. Additionally, if you currently work in HR, check if your company offers any financial support or reimbursements for graduate studies.

Find Financial Aid for Your Master’s Degree

Your Guide to College Loans

Financial Aid Guide for Graduate Students

How Long Does It Take to Get a Master’s in Human Resources?

Typical # of Credits

30 Credits

Typical Program Length

2-3 Years

An online master’s in human resources typically requires around 30 credits and can be completed in 2-3 years. However, some schools offer accelerated programs that let you earn a master’s degree in as little as a year, saving you time and money.

Application Requirements

There are the usual admission requirements for an online master’s program in human resources:

What Can You Do With a Master’s in Human Resources?

Earning a master’s degree in human resources can open doors to various career opportunities within the field, including compensation and benefits manager, training and development manager, and human resources manager.

According to the BLS, the median annual salary for these occupations was above $100,000 as of May 2024. Additionally, these positions are projected to have a better-than-average job outlook over the next decade. For example, the projected job growth for training and development managers is 7% between 2023 and 2033, which is higher than the 4% average for all occupations.

Popular Human Resources Jobs
Job	Median Annual Salary (May 2024)	Description
Compensation and Benefits Manager	$140,360	Manage employee benefits and compensation programs
Human Resources Manager	$140,030	Direct the administrative functions of an organization, including recruiting and hiring, employee relations, and payroll.
Training and Development Manager	$127,090	Oversee training and development programs for staff.
Human Resources Specialist	$72,910	Work in all aspects of human resources, including hiring, payroll and benefits, staff training, and employee relations.

Source: BLS

Learn More About Human Resources Jobs

How Much Does HR Make? Salary Guide

Human Resources Careers

Is a Master’s in Human Resources Worth It?

A master’s in human resources is a worthwhile investment for human resources professionals who want to increase their salaries. An advanced HR degree can also help you hone your expertise in areas such as recruiting, labor and employee relations, and compensation and benefits, helping you qualify for higher-level positions.

According to our 2024 BestColleges Online Education Trends Report, 97% of online business students and graduates said they would recommend online education to others, with 94% saying their degree has had or will have a positive return on investment.

Education Beyond a Master’s Degree

If you want to advance your career even further, you can also pursue a Ph.D. in human resources.

Doctoral degrees in HR vary by institution and program. You can earn a Ph.D. in HR management or organizational management or a doctor of business administration (DBA) with an HR specialization.

These programs prepare students for senior HR roles, academia, or consulting positions. They typically take at least four years to complete and have a curriculum focused on research methods or specialized areas.

Best Online Doctorate in Human Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the differences between an MS in human resources and an MBA?

An MBA provides broader business knowledge applicable to various careers, with only a few HR-specific classes. On the other hand, a master’s in human resources focuses on the skills and knowledge required in the HR field.