Best Online MBA in Human Resources Ranked for Students in 2024

Badge for BEST ONLINE MBA IN HUMAN RESOURCES
By Dave Tomar
Reviewed By Dr. Jed Macosko
Published:
Updated:

We rank the best online MBA in Human Resources degree programs.

Key Takeaways

  • The online MBA in human resources degree deals with organizational behavior, employee relations, and strategic human resource management.

  • Graduate students who earn an online MBA with a human resources management concentration can get well-paying leadership roles as human resource managers.

  • A growing number of reputable and accredited business schools offer fully online MBAs with a human resource management concentration.

See our complete guide to MBAs for more information.

Featured Programs

An online MBA in human resource management is a valuable and versatile degree. Students enrolled in the human resource management MBA program will study core subjects like business strategy, corporate finance, labor and employment law, and more.

These practical skills can be applied to a wide range of roles in your organization’s human resources department and beyond.

Fortunately, prospective students have many excellent online MBA programs in human resources to choose from.

Human resources is a great career for people who are interested in strategic management, business law, financial management and more.

Most students who earn an online MBA in human resources will find leadership opportunities in human resources departments. Many HR managers will hold an advanced degree.

However, there are numerous related career paths that you could take including benefits manager, labor relations specialist, and even top executive.

Find other top schools with a look at our Guide to Online Degrees. Otherwise, read on.

About Online MBA in Human Resources Degree Programs

Students in the online MBA in human resource management program will study topics such as human resource development, human resource planning, employment law, and more.

These skills can easily be transferred to careers in other business contexts including finance, labor relations, and executive leadership.

In most cases, however, the online MBA in human resources is designed to prepare you for a career in human resource management.

This advanced degree can lead to immediate and well-paying opportunities in the field of human resources. Graduates with an online MBA in human resources degree are capable of earning a median salary of $126,230 a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Admission Requirements for the Online MBA in Human Resources

Schools that offer the online MBA program in human resources have different admission requirements.

These are the admission requirements common to online students pursuing an MBA in human resources:

  • A completed online application
  • An accredited bachelor’s degree
  • Official college transcripts
  • A cumulative college GPA of 3.0 - 3.5
  • Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) Score or Graduate Record Examination (GRE) Score
  • Personal statement or essay
  • Reference Letters
  • Professional Resume or CV

Key Point: Some programs might also require an interview process.

Learn more about online MBA admission requirements.

Curriculum and Courses

Schools offering the online MBA in human resources have different courses, although there are similarities in programs. There are typically core business education courses, elective courses, and human resources courses. There may also be a capstone project requirement.

The typical courses offered in the online MBA in human resources program include:

  • Business Research Methods
  • Human Resources Planning
  • Organizational Behavior
  • Payroll and Benefits Management
  • Corporate Law
  • Employment Law
  • Labor Relations
  • Strategic Management
  • Marketing Management

Key Point: Online MBA programs with a human resources concentration will cover topics such as human resources planning, organizational behavior, and employment law.

Employee talking to a group from human resources
Back to Top

Careers for Online MBA in Human Resources Degree Holders

Graduates with the online MBA in human resources have the credentials to qualify for several careers, including:

  • Administrative Services and Facilities Managers
  • Compensation and Benefits Managers
  • Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists
  • Human Resources Specialists
  • Human Resources Managers
  • Labor Relations Specialists
  • Training and Development Managers
  • Top Executives

Key Points:According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job openings for online MBA in human resources degree holders are projected to grow by 7% from 2021 to 2031.

The outlook is also positive for those who use their graduate degree to pursue careers as Training and Development Managers. Jobs for these positions are also expected to grow by 7% from 2021 to 2031.

See what else you can do with an online MBA.

Back to Top

Factors for Choosing MBA in Human Resources Online Programs

Aspiring HR professionals must be prepared for the challenges of an accredited online MBA in human resources program.

Choosing from top-notch online human resources programs will help to make your professional journey easier by allowing you to balance your pursuit of an advanced degree with any existing professional demands.

Furthermore, an online degree program in a reputable college or university should have the integrity, reputation, and track record to convince employers that their graduates deserve a place in the employer’s organization.

Here are the factors that you need to consider when choosing a school that offers the online MBA in human resources degree:

  • Accreditation: Accreditation is vital. It signifies that the school’s education is in compliance with the standards of the Department of Education and the accrediting body. A school must also be accredited by a recognized colleges and schools commission in order to offer federal financial aid to its students.

    • In addition to institutional accreditation, be sure your degree in online MBA in human resources is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). This national board provides programmatic accreditation, which is an important mark of credibility for the master’s of business administration degree.

  • Cost: Cost is an inherent element of every educational pursuit. But since cost differs from one school to another, you must ensure that the online school you choose is affordable while still providing a quality education.
  • Financing Options: Accredited colleges and universities will offer financial aid options including grants, scholarships, and loans for students who qualify. Some will also offer work-study programs.
  • Course Delivery: Online education courses are delivered in three different ways: synchronous (live online classes), asynchronous (classes that can be attended anytime), and blended or hybrid (a mix of both synchronous and asynchronous). Choose a school that offers the type that suits your schedule.
  • Academic Support: Academic support is a valuable element of distance learning. Give due credit to schools that provide students with online resources such as references and tutorials. You will need these to gain a deeper understanding of your lessons.

Learn how to find accredited online MBA programs.

Back to Top

The 10 Best Online MBA in Human Resources Degree Programs

  1. #1

    Wayne State University

    Detroit , MI
    #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #3 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2024 #3 Best Colleges in Michigan 2024 #3 Best Grad Schools in Michigan 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $16K

    Acceptance

    75%

    Graduation

    60%

    Student body

    29K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1150/24

    Career Outlook for Human Resources degree at Wayne State University

    Cost of Degree: $19,789
    Expenses: $16,873
    Starting Salary: $68,551
    Salary after 4 years: $76,904
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    What do we love about Wayne State University?

    Wayne State University was founded in 1868 by five returning Civil War veterans. Initially chartered as the Detroit Medical College, today the public university is the third largest in the state of Michigan.

    Wayne State University serves roughly 25,000 students at both the graduate and undergraduate levels online, at its flagship Detroit campus and across form satellite campuses.

    • Wayne State University is great for students who:

      Are still choosing their major. Wayne State has more than 350 degree programs to choose from.

    • Wayne State University might not be the best fit for students who:

      Prefer a traditional campus experience. Some students describe Wayne State as a “commuter school.”

    Compare school
  2. #2

    Southern New Hampshire University

    Manchester , NH
    #5 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2024 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New Hampshire 2024 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in New Hampshire 2024 #2 Best Private Colleges in New Hampshire 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $15K

    Acceptance

    96%

    Graduation

    41%

    Student body

    224K

    Career Outlook for Human Resources degree at Southern New Hampshire University

    Cost of Degree: $19,470
    Expenses: $21,900
    Starting Salary: $64,788
    Salary after 4 years: $73,328
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    What do we love about Southern New Hampshire University?

    Southern New Hampshire University is a private university located near Manchester, New Hampshire. SNHU is unique for its predominant emphasis on distance learning. While the main campus is home to 3000 students, another 135,000 SNHU students are currently earning online degrees.

    Southern New Hampshire University is one of the fastest growing universities in the U.S.

    • Southern New Hampshire University is great for:

      Adult learners as well as those pursuing professional certifications.

    • Southern New Hampshire University might not be the best fit for:

      Students seeking a traditional on-campus experience.

    Compare school
  3. #3

    Purdue Global

    West Lafayette , IN
    #10 Online Colleges with the Most Generous Financial Aid in 2024 #12 Most Affordable Online Colleges Ranked for Students 2024 #5 Best Public Colleges in Indiana 2024 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in Indiana 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Graduation

    20%

    Student body

    66K

    What do we love about Purdue University Global?

    Purdue University Global is a public online university that is part of the Purdue University system. Purdue Global began life as the for-profit structured Kaplan University before its 2018 acquisition.

    Today, Purdue Global is a “public-benefit corporation” which means that in-state students can enjoy reduced tuition rates.

    • Purdue University Global is great for:

      Military veterans. Servicemembers and veterans make up a significant portion of the student population.

    • Purdue University Global might not be the best fit for students who:

      Prefer a traditional grading system. Purdue Global uses competency-based learning to award credits to students.

    Compare school
    4. Three people having a meeting in an office
  5. #4

    University of Bridgeport

    Bridgeport , CT
    #3 Best Small Colleges in Connecticut 2024 #4 Best Research Universities in Connecticut 2024 #4 Best Grad Schools in Connecticut 2024 #6 Best Private Colleges in Connecticut 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $36K

    Acceptance

    82%

    Graduation

    47%

    Student body

    5K

    Career Outlook for Human Resources degree at University of Bridgeport

    Cost of Degree: $21,686
    Expenses: $25,222
    Starting Salary: $60,787
    Salary after 4 years: $68,799
    Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Bridgeport known for?

    University of Bridgeport’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    What do we love about University of Bridgeport?

    University of Bridgeport was formed in 1927 as a junior college. In 1947, the school purchased the estate of legendary showman P.T. Barnum, and subsequently became a four year institution. The only four-year university in Bridgeport, Connecticut, Bridgeport is noted today for its excellence in nursing and dental hygienics as well as its popular liberal arts program.

    Today, the private university serves more than 5000 students, with more than 2000 of those studying at the postgraduate level.

    • University of Bridgeport is great for students who:

      Enjoy smaller class sizes and an intimate campus.

    • University of Bridgeport might not be the best fit for students who:

      Don’t prefer an urban environment. The campus is concentrated in Bridgeport, which is Connecticut’s most populous city.

    Compare school
  6. #5

    Thomas Jefferson University

    Philadelphia , PA
    #9 Best Research Universities in Pennsylvania 2024 #10 Best Private Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #10 Best Grad Schools in Pennsylvania 2024 #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Pennsylvania
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $44K

    Acceptance

    89%

    Graduation

    68%

    Student body

    10K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1240/29

    Career Outlook for Human Resources degree at Thomas Jefferson University

    Cost of Degree: $23,103
    Expenses: $21,469
    Starting Salary: $128,156
    Salary after 4 years: $145,049
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Thomas Jefferson University known for?

    Thomas Jefferson University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    What do we love about Thomas Jefferson University?

    Thomas Jefferson University was established in 1824 as a private university based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Though the university merged with Philadelphia University in 2017, it is still largely recognized simply as Jefferson.

    Thomas Jefferson was formed as a medical college but, today, serves nearly 8,000 students in a wide range of disciplines at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Today, its medical school ranks as 9th oldest in the nation.

    • Thomas Jefferson is great for students who:

      Wish to study medicine. Jefferson is noted for its many teaching hospitals.

    • Thomas Jefferson University might not be the best fit for students who:

      Do not prefer an urban environment. Jefferson is based in the major metropolitan city of Philadelphia.

    Compare school
  7. #6

    Monroe College

    Bronx , NY
    #14 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2024 #19 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Education Degrees

    Tuition + fees

    $17K

    Acceptance

    60%

    Graduation

    56%

    Student body

    11K

    Career Outlook for Human Resources degree at Monroe College

    Cost of Degree: $18,310
    Expenses: $16,500
    Starting Salary: $44,784
    Salary after 4 years: $50,687
    Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Monroe College known for?

    Monroe College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    What do we love about Monroe College?

    Monroe College was formed as a women’s school of business in 1933. Opening its first campus in the Bronx borough of New York City, its first classes were actually held in the famous Starlight Ballroom performance venue. Today, Monroe also has campuses in New Rochelle and Saint Lucia, as well as a learning center in Manhattan.

    Today, the for-profit school serves more than 6000 students in popular subjects like business management, hospitality, and nursing.

    • Monroe College is great for students who:

      Enjoy small class sizes. Monroe boasts a student-faculty ratio of 15:1.

    • Monroe College might not be the best fit for students who:

      Are seeking a traditional campus experience. Some students say Monroe is a better fit for commuters and online students.

    Compare school
  8. #7

    Maryville University

    Saint Louis , MO
    #10 Best Research Universities in Missouri 2024 #3 Best Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Missouri #4 Top 20 Easiest Online Degrees from Accredited Schools in 2024 #4 Best Online MBA in Data Analytics Ranked for Students in 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $27K

    Acceptance

    88%

    Graduation

    67%

    Student body

    14K

    Career Outlook for Human Resources degree at Maryville University

    Cost of Degree: $15,696
    Starting Salary: $65,950
    Salary after 4 years: $74,642
    What is Maryville University known for?

    Maryville University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    What do we love about Maryville University?

    Maryville University was formed in 1872 by the Society of the Sacred Heart. The private university, located in Town and Country, Missouri, began as an academy for young women and underprivileged youth.

    Today, the private university offers more 90 degree programs at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. In fact, of the roughly 11,000 students attending Maryville today, more than 7,500 are pursuing advanced degrees.

    • Maryville University is great for:

      Graduate level students who wish to earn an advanced degree in areas like nursing, data analytics, and software programming at their own pace.

    • Maryville University might not be the best fit for students who:

      Are not comfortable with independent work. Some students say that much of the material is self-taught, and that students must be prepared to take control of their own education.

    Compare school
  9. #8

    Southeastern Oklahoma State University

    Durant , OK
    #8 Best Small Colleges in Oklahoma 2024 #8 Cheapest Colleges in Oklahoma 2024 #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Oklahoma 2024 #8 Best Public Colleges in Oklahoma 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    74%

    Graduation

    34%

    Student body

    7K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1020/20

    Career Outlook for Human Resources degree at Southeastern Oklahoma State University

    Cost of Degree: $5,076
    Expenses: $12,050
    Starting Salary: $53,740
    Salary after 4 years: $60,288
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Southeastern Oklahoma State University known for?

    Southeastern Oklahoma State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    What do we love about Southeastern Oklahoma State University?

    Southeastern Oklahoma State University was formed in 1909 as the Southeastern State Normal School. Operating as a teaching school for its first 30 years of operation, Southeastern began to offer arts and sciences bachelor’s degrees in 1939.

    The Durant, Oklahoma-based research institution is noted today for its popular programs in business, education, and biology. Today, the public university serves roughly 5000 students at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

    • Southeastern Oklahoma State University is great for students who:

      Are pursuing careers in aviation. Southeastern is noteworthy for offering one of the best aviation degrees for the cost.

    • Southeastern Oklahoma State University might not be the best fit for students who:

      Are seeking a lively campus experience. Students describe both the campus and surrounding region as relatively quiet.

    Compare school
  11. #9

    Thomas College

    Waterville , ME
    #7 Best Private Colleges in Maine 2024 #7 Best Small Colleges in Maine 2024 #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Maine 2024 #10 Best Colleges in Maine 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $30K

    Acceptance

    97%

    Graduation

    50%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for Human Resources degree at Thomas College

    Cost of Degree: $29,996
    Expenses: $14,998
    Starting Salary: $56,012
    Salary after 4 years: $63,395
    Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Thomas College known for?

    Thomas College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    What do we love about Thomas College?

    Thomas College was formed in 1894 as the Keist Business College. Established in Waterville, Maine, the private college began as a career training institution. Originally operating above a Woolworth Company building, Thomas was primarily focused on providing a college education for accountants and secretaries.

    By 1963, the college had earned the right to award four-year degrees, and today serves roughly 2000 students. Thomas is especially noted today for its popular programs in accounting, information technology, and business management.

    • Thomas College is great for students who:

      Enjoy an intimate college atmosphere. Students describe the campus as small and close-knit.

    • Thomas College might not be the best fit for students who:

      Have financial constraints. Some students describe Thomas College as a costly educational experience.

    Compare school
  12. #10

    Central Michigan University

    Mount Pleasant , MI
    #9 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2024 #9 Best Grad Schools in Michigan 2024 #9 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2024 #9 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $14K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    18K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1100/24

    Career Outlook for Human Resources degree at Central Michigan University

    Cost of Degree: $16,392
    Expenses: $13,318
    Starting Salary: $60,556
    Salary after 4 years: $67,934
    Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Central Michigan University known for?

    Central Michigan University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    What do we love about Central Michigan University?

    Central Michigan University was formed in 1892 as the Central Michigan Normal School and Business Institute. Based in Mount Pleasant, Central Michigan is one of the state’s eight research institutions. The public university is noted today for its excellence in areas like entrepreneurship, engineering, and teacher education.

    Today, Central Michigan University serves roughly 15,000 students.

    • Central Michigan University is great for students who:

      Are undecided on a major. With more than 200 degrees offered at the undergraduate and post-graduate level, Central Michigan students have plenty of options.

    • Central Michigan University might not be the best fit for students who:

      Don’t prefer to go to college in a small town. Students describe the surrounding region as quiet on the weekends.

    Compare school

Career Outlook for Students with Human Resources Degree

Go to Degree Finder tool

Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration

Degree Level: Master's

  • Location: The U.S. (Private Schools)
  • Avg. Cost of Degree*: $12,065
  • Avg. Expenses*: $17,037
  • Avg. Starting Salary*: $68,874
  • Avg. Salary after 4 Years*: $77,266
  • Avg. Cost Recoup Time**: 5 years
  • Job Growth: 5.04%
  • Number of Jobs: 2,258,500
  • * denotes ‘annually’
  • ** denotes ‘at 15% of annual salary’

Career Salaries

CareerJob GrowthAvg. Salary
Compensation and Benefits Managers1.71%$124,492
Human Resources Managers5.22%$115,604
Law Teachers, Postsecondary3.03%$113,101
Training and Development Managers6.54%$111,455
Business Teachers, Postsecondary7.01%$86,765

Average Career Salaries

Bottom 10%MedianTop 10%
$52,986$87,859$142,281

Promising Job Markets

StateCost of LivingAvg. Salary
#2 New York5% higher than average$115,336
#3 Michigan15% higher than average$88,919
#4 New Jersey13% higher than average$118,435
#5 Virginia5% higher than average$99,453
#6 Ohio14% higher than average$88,230

Top Industries

IndustryAvg. Salary
Compensation and Benefits Managers$124,492
Human Resources Managers$115,604
Law Teachers, Postsecondary$113,101
Data from The Bureau of Labor Statistics, The Department of Education College Scorecard, The Department of Education NCES, and The Council for Community and Economic Research.

Save money on your way to an MBA by checking out some free MBA courses at some of the best business schools in the world.

Or find out more with a look at our complete List of University Rankings.

 
Do you have a question about this topic? Ask it here