Human Resources Master’s Programs Online: Comparing Top Schools

Are You Ready for a Master’s in HR?

Before you take on the significant commitment of earning a master’s in HR, it’s a good idea to take a step back and assess whether the program aligns with your personal and professional goals. Asking yourself the right questions can clarify your readiness and fit for graduate school. Here are five introspective questions prospective HR master’s students should consider:

1. What are my career goals in HR, and can a master’s degree help me achieve them?
   Think about the specific role or advancement you’re aiming for, such as HR manager or director, and whether this degree is needed to get there.
2. Am I prepared to commit the necessary time and effort to an online graduate program?
   Consider your current work/life obligations and whether you can allocate at least 10-15 hours per week for studying.
3. Does this program’s curriculum match my interests and address my skill gaps in HR?
   For example, will the program provide options for learning more about HR analytics or labor relations?
4. Will I be able to stay motivated and engaged in a fully online learning environment?
   Be honest about your learning style and self-discipline for remote coursework without face-to-face classes.
5. Why do I want an HR master’s degree instead of other professional development options (like SHRM certification or an MBA)?
   You want to ensure this degree is the right path for your personal career goals.

Exploring 3 Online Master’s in Human Resources

Human Resources Career & Salary Outlook

Depending on the institution, total tuition for an online program for HR master’s degrees can range from around $20,000 at a public university to $60,000 or more at a private school. Most schools charge tuition per credit, with degrees often requiring between 30-42 total credits. Many online programs charge one flat rate for all students, so you might not pay extra as an out-of-state learner.

In addition to tuition, students should budget for any required fees and course materials. The online format can save you money on community or relocation costs, and you are more able to continue working while studying. Finally, online students usually qualify for the same financial aid options — from grants and scholarships to loans and employer reimbursement programs — as on-campus students.

Note: Costs shown are based on the latest available data; “est.” indicates an estimated cost total.

After You Graduate: Putting Your Master’s to Work

An online master’s degree can accelerate your path if you’re already in HR, helping you move from a generalist role into a supervisory or strategic position. These include leadership roles such as Human Resources Manager, HR Director, or VP of HR, where they oversee HR operations and big-picture planning. These positions offer significantly higher salaries — according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual pay for HR managers is about $136,000 (as of 2023).

Beyond generalist management, an advanced degree opens doors to specialized paths. You might lead workforce learning as a Training and Development Manager, design employee financial packages as a Compensation and Benefits Manager, or operate as an HR consultant advising organizations. HR professionals with graduate degrees are well-positioned for roles that require strategic thinking and deep expertise in areas like talent analytics, labor law, or organizational development. 

Job prospects in the field are also steady — HR management roles are projected to grow about 6% from 2023 to 2033, indicating consistent demand for skilled HR leaders across industries. And, with a master’s credential, you’ll typically be considered for higher-level positions and salary brackets than employees with only a bachelor’s degree, so investing in your education pays off in the long run.

Student Help Center: HR Master’s FAQs

Is an online HR master’s degree respected by employers?

Yes. As long as your degree comes from an accredited university with a good reputation for learning, employers generally view an online master’s in HR as equivalent to a campus degree. In today’s workforce, many HR professionals earn their graduate degrees online while working full-time. Employers ultimately care about the skills and knowledge you gain, not the format of the degree.

Do I need a bachelor’s in HR or work experience to get accepted to my program of choice?

No. Most online HR master’s degree programs welcome students from a variety of backgrounds. You also don’t need an undergraduate degree solely in human resources — majors in business, psychology, communications, or other fields are all common among HR grad students. 

During the admissions process, some programs do prefer applicants with a year or more of work experience, but that isn’t universal. Showing a strong interest in HR and preparedness for graduate-level work is typically more important than your specific background.

HR master’s vs. MBA: Which is better for an HR career?

The best choice for you depends on where you want to go in your career. A master’s degree offers targeted depth in HR, while an MBA provides a broad business education with only a slice of HR coursework. For a general management trajectory or flexibility beyond HR, an MBA offers the versatility you need. But if you’re committed to advancing within HR and becoming an expert in the field, a specialized HR master’s is likely the better fit.

Can I work full-time while earning an online master’s in HR?

Yes. because this type of program is designed with working professionals in mind. Flexible scheduling, which includes asynchronous classes and part-time options, makes it feasible to keep your job while in school. Many students manage coursework during evenings and weekends. Good time management is the key to success as a part-time student, as are sharpened writing skills, personal discipline, and support from your employer or family.

Will a master’s degree in HR help me get SHRM or PHR certified?

It can. A quality HR master’s program covers much of the content you’ll encounter on professional certification exams, and many programs use SHRM’s curriculum guidelines to craft their course offerings.

You will still need to meet the certification requirements and pass the exam, though, as the degree isn’t a substitute for the test. However, having completed the master’s coursework gives you a strong foundation to pass with flying colors. You’ll likely go into the SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, or SPHR exam with deeper knowledge and more confidence, making the certification process easier.

Top Online Master’s Programs in Human Resources

OMD’s ranking of the best online HR master’s programs is backed by a data-driven methodology. We analyzed U.S. Department of Education data on more than 7,700 colleges, examining tuition, financial aid, number of online programs, accreditation, and student support services (academic and career counseling). This process identifies programs that excel in student support, quality courses, and general affordability. The list makes it easy to compare high-value options and find the HR master’s degree that is best for your career goals.