What Is a Master's in Human Resource Management?

A Master’s in Human Resource Management is a graduate-level degree focused on developing advanced knowledge in managing people, policies, and workplace culture. Designed for professionals seeking to lead in HR roles, this program equips students with tools to navigate complex workplace dynamics, labor laws, talent acquisition, and organizational behavior.

Unlike general MBA programs, which offer a broader business overview, a master’s in human resources offers a specialized curriculum tailored to HR professionals who want deep expertise in workforce development, compliance, and strategic management.

Understanding the Master’s in Human Resource Management

Human resources master's programs can be offered in traditional on-campus formats or through flexible options like an online master's in human resources.

These programs are designed for:

Early-career professionals aiming for advancement in HR
Mid-level managers transitioning into HR leadership roles
Business professionals seeking HR specialization

A master’s in HR can open doors to roles in both public and private sectors across industries such as healthcare, tech, education, manufacturing, and government.

I was given the opportunity to oversee global teams—an experience that would have been difficult to navigate without the advanced leadership and strategic management education and skills I gained during my Master’s program.

–Maggie Davis, US Veteran, MS in Human Resource Strategic Management, Bellevue University

Bellevue University’s Master of Science in Human Resource Strategic Management is a flexible master’s in HR designed for emerging leaders who want to impact workplaces with the latest human capital management strategy. Its curriculum is fully aligned with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) HR Curriculum Guidebook and Templates which is a gold standard for HR professionals.

What You’ll Learn in the Human Resources Master’s Program: Core Curriculum

Whether you enroll in an online master's in human resources or an on-campus program, the curriculum blends theory with practical skills to help you become a strategic HR leader. These subjects lay the groundwork for managing human capital effectively.

Through the Master’s in Human Resource Strategic Management at Bellevue University, students refine skills such as conflict resolution and strategic planning. The emphasis on communication, critical thinking, problem solving, and strategic leadership prepares graduates to navigate workplace complexities, making a Human Resource Master's a strategic investment for your career.

Common course topics include:

Strategic Human Capital Management
Organizational Behavior and Change
Employment Law and Ethical Practices
Compensation and Benefits Strategies
Talent Acquisition, Recruitment, and Management
Global HR Management

Graduates also gain hands-on experience through case studies, capstone projects, and simulations that mirror real-world HR challenges. Armed with these skills in human resources, graduates will be prepared to act as influencers and leaders of their organizations’ efforts.

Why Is This Degree Important?

Benefits of Earning a Master’s in Human Resource Management

Earning a master's in human resource management positions you as a competitive candidate for leadership roles in HR and organizational strategy. The benefits include:

Increased Career Mobility: Qualify for director-level and executive HR positions
Earning Potential: Specialized HR degrees can lead to better salary packages
Strategic Influence: Shape company culture and influence organizational decisions
Credential Advantage: Distinguish yourself in the job market with a respected graduate degree
Networking Opportunities: Connect with HR professionals and industry leaders through alumni networks and internships

For those debating online MBA programs vs master's of human resource management, choosing the latter offers a more in-depth focus for HR-specific roles like Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO), HR Director, and Talent or Training & Development Manager.

After graduating [with a bachelor’s degree], I was promoted at the company I worked for at the time. I didn’t stop there. I knew that to advance in my career, I’d need to keep learning. I decided to pursue a Master's in HR Strategic Management, and once again, Bellevue University’s flexible online programs were key to making it work. Earning a master’s degree while being a wife and raising a young child and advancing in my career was challenging, but the flexibility of Bellevue’s online format made it possible.

– Maggie Davis, US Veteran, MS in Human Resource Strategic Management

Unique Benefit of SHRM-aligned Program: Bellevue University’s SHRM CP/SCP Preparation Course

In your final term of the Bellevue University cohort master’s program, you can choose Track 2—a SHRM CP/SCP preparation course for this important certification exam, along with a modified Capstone course (prerequisites apply). Students will have access to instructor-led video sessions addressing the entire SHRM-Body of Applied Skills and Knowledge (BASK) covered in the exam and related assignments to prepare students for the SHRM certification exam.*

Track 1 consists of the full Capstone course in which students choose an organization to develop a strategic plan for its HR department and analyze the organization from the various functional areas within HR.

Whichever track you choose, you can be confident because Bellevue’s Master of Science in Human Resources Strategic Management fully aligns with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) HR Curriculum Guidebook and Templates.

*Please note – students will have to register and pay for, schedule, and take the SHRM CP/SCP exam, which is external to this course. This is a preparation course only, and prerequisites apply.

Career Paths with a Human Resource Master’s Program

Graduates of a master’s in human resource management program are well-prepared for a variety of leadership and specialized roles across industries. Whether you're seeking to move up within your current organization or pivot to a new sector, the degree provides the foundation for long-term career growth. Common career paths include:

Human Resources Manager – Oversee HR departments and implement policies across organizations
Talent Acquisition Manager – Lead recruitment strategies and workforce planning initiatives
Compensation and Benefits Manager – Design competitive pay structures and employee benefits programs
Training and Development Manager – Develop learning programs to support employee growth and retention
HR Business Partner – Align HR strategy with business goals in close collaboration with department leaders
Employee Relations Specialist – Manage workplace conflict, compliance, and labor relations
Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) – Serve as the top HR executive guiding company-wide people strategies

With the flexibility of online human resources master's programs, many professionals can pursue these roles without pausing their careers.

Your Questions, Answered By The Experts

Q: How long does it take to earn a master’s in human resource management degree?
A: Most students complete a master’s degree in 2-3 years, depending on several factors, including how many credits you take per term and how many are required (part-time students will take longer). Bellevue’s MS in Human Resource Strategic Management program requires 36-37 graduate credits, depending on which final track you select.

Here’s how Bellevue University’s cohort Master’s in Human Resource Strategic Management works:
- Bellevue’s Master’s in Human Resource Strategic Management program requires 36-37 graduate credits and is designed for working professionals
- If enrolled full-time, cohort participants take one course at a time (6 credits per term), with short breaks in between, enabling them to balance education with work and personal commitments.
- The cohort model encourages collaboration and peer support throughout the program.
- At a pace of 2 courses per term, it is possible to finish in 6 terms (in the final term, you choose either Track 1, Capstone course–three credits, or Track 2– three credits + one-credit Capstone course), or about 1 to 1 1/2 years if you are continuously enrolled and progress according to the cohort degree plan.
- Bellevue has 4 terms per year: fall, winter, spring & summer.
Q: What are the requirements to enroll in a human resource management master’s program?
A: Depending on the school, you may need to submit scores from the GRE or GMAT exam. (Bellevue University does not require test scores.) You will typically be required to 1 ) Apply, 2) submit all official transcripts from previous accredited colleges, and 3) submit grades from your most recent 60 credit hours from a conferred bachelor’s degree or from a completed master’s degree. 4) Some programs may require a resume, letter of recommendation, or other documentation.

Q: Are there any additional certifications that complement a master’s in human resources?
A: Students may consider pursuing these certifications. (Specific industry-recognized examinations and prerequisites may apply.)
See Bellevue University’s graduate admission requirements.
- SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP from the Society for Human Resource Management (Track 2 of Bellevue’s MS in Human Resource Management can prepare you for this important exam.*)
- PHR or SPHR (Professional in Human Resources / Senior Professional in Human Resources)
- Talent Management Practitioner (TMP)
- Certified Compensation Professional (CCP)
Q: Can I earn a human resource management master’s online?
A: Yes, you can earn a human resource management master’s 100% online or on campus. Learn more about how online learning at Bellevue University works.
Q: Are there scholarships available for Master’s in Human Resource Management students?
A: Yes. Graduate students are eligible for various scholarships and federal student aid. You can also research scholarships specific to your interests or your affiliations. Apply for scholarships here.

Explore the Master’s in Human Resource Strategic Management at Bellevue University

If you're ready to elevate your career in HR, explore the Master’s in Human Resource Strategic Management at Bellevue University. Designed with working professionals in mind, our flexible online master's in human resources provides industry-relevant coursework, faculty with real-world experience, and the convenience to learn on your own schedule.

Learn more about the Master’s in Human Resource Strategic Management today.