MS in Human Resource Management

The MS in Human Resource Management is being taught out and is no longer accepting applications as of Spring 2025. We encourage prospective students to explore our MBA with a concentration in Strategic Human Resource Management.

Develop the advanced quantitative skills and real-world knowledge it takes to contribute at the highest levels with a master’s degree in human resource management.

Earn a Master's degree in Human Resource Management to acquire the data-driven decision-making skills and practical knowledge necessary for making high-impact contributions in the field.

Why Earn an MS in Human Resource Management (MSHRM) at Sacred Heart? 

Organizations rely on highly qualified and effective human resource managers to attract, manage and retain top talent–which means the role of an HR leader is evolving into that of a tightly integrated business partner. Earning your MS in human resource management from SHU will prepare you to play an essential role in both your organization and career.

What is Human Resource Management?

Human resource management “involves a future-oriented process of developing and implementing HR programs that address and solve business problems and directly contribute to major long-term business objectives,” according to the Society for Human Resource Management.

HR professionals are proactive by nature — they’re focused on the strategic goals of an organization and how they can contribute to the overall business goals by making data-driven decisions.

The Benefits of Sacred Heart University's Master’s Degree in Human Resource Management

Gone are the days when HR managers primarily existed to manage the benefits and policies that affect a company’s employees. Today, HR managers serve an integral role in managing the flow of a workforce and ensuring that recruitment, retention, training and employee-management plans are competitive and align with major objectives.

If you’re wondering about the value of a master’s degree in human resources, you should know that today's companies, perhaps more than ever before, are looking to foster healthy, people-centered work environments with individuals who are motivated to accomplish their organization's goals. Sacred Heart University's master’s degree in human resource management will give you the expertise you need to advance your career and contribute to the overall success of your organization.

In the MSHRM program, you will:

• Examine and understand the needs of global organizations
• Learn to manage people and processes within rapidly changing business, regulatory and social landscapes
• Study a range of topics including performance management, talent management, HR analytics, HR law and diversity and inclusion
• Use metrics and finance to develop critical thinking and creatively tackle diverse challenges
• Complete a capstone/applied research project that allows you to apply your studies to the field
• Benefit from a unique student cohort model, where students are admitted together each fall to create a student support system and future peer network
• Learn from distinguished faculty members with advanced human resource knowledge and experience, as well as senior-level HR executives who serve as guest lecturers
• Have the opportunity to join the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) SHU Student Chapter and take advantage of HR certification study groups, SHRM seminars, conferences and online tools
• Be part of SHU’s Jack Welch College of Business & Technology, one of the elite business schools worldwide accredited by AACSB International
• Study in a program that fully aligns with SHRM’s HR Curriculum Guidebook and Templates, one of only 313 programs worldwide that meets the guidelines

Earn Your Master’s in Human Resource Management Part-Time or Full-Time

The MSHRM program is delivered full-time and part-time, with courses provided in the evening. The program follows a trimester schedule and utilizes an online synchronous model for increased flexibility and accessibility. Accommodations are available for local students who would like to meet in groups on campus.

• The part-time, fully-blended program helps human resource professionals advance, or business managers move laterally, into the HR field.
• The full-time, classroom-based program allows students with an undergraduate degree in business, applied psychology, HR management or leadership to earn an advanced HR degree.
• You can start your selected program in the fall or spring.
• The graduate certificate in human resource management provides advanced training, and courses can be applied toward the master's degree.

What Can You Do with a Master’s in Human Resource Management?

Within the larger field of HR management, there are several more specific areas of opportunity for professional exploration and advancement. Whether you aim to hone your skills in training and development, or excel in the dynamics of recruitment, compensation or organizational development, the MS in human resource management from Sacred Heart University will prepare you for a successful career. SHU graduates have been hired by:

The median annual salary for Human Resource Management professionals is $130,000, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor statistics.

Graduate Certificates in Human Resource Management

The Welch College of Business & Technology also offers graduate certificates in a wide range of disciplines, including human resource management, digital marketing, corporate finance, core business skills, business analytics and more. Whether you're a working professional or part-time student, we offer certificate programs to enhance your resume and advance your career. Most credits from a graduate certificate program can be applied toward one of our business master’s degree programs with program director approval.

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