What Can You Do with a Human Resource Management MBA?

What Can You Do with a Human Resource Management MBA?
By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Dr. Jed Macosko
Published:

Key Takeaways

  • Graduates with an MBA in human resources have career opportunities as human resource managers, training and development managers, or compensation and benefits managers.
  • Human resource managers are employed in nearly every environment and industry.
  • The projected job growth for human resource managers over the next decade is expected to be strong.

Many organizations struggle with effective resource management. An MBA in human resource management can prepare you to help companies overcome various resource-related struggles, making you a valuable talent in this industry. If you’re still wondering, “What can you do with a Human Resource Management MBA?” - this article answers your question.

a person pointing something on a paper while talking to the other person in front

Featured Programs

What Can You Do with a Human Resource Management MBA?

Working as a human resource manager, training and development manager, or compensation and benefits manager are a few career options you get when you graduate with a human resource management MBA.  

The good news is with an MBA in HR, you can work in almost every environment and industry. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the field is expected to grow more with time and provide a strong median salary.

Here are some details about job roles you can consider with an MBA in human resource management:

RoleMedian PayWork ExperienceRequired Education
Human Resource Manager$136,350/year5 years or moreBachelor’s degree in HR or related, some prefer HRM MBA
Compensation & Benefits Manager$136,380/year5 years or moreMBA in HRM or bachelor’s degree with experience
Training & Development Manager$125,040/year5 years or moreMBA in HRM or related, experience in training/development
HR Information Systems Manager$137,155/year3 years or moreBachelor’s degree, experience in HRIS management

Human Resource Manager

Human resource (HR) managers make sure employees feel good about their roles at work. They build strategies to connect employees and managers, creating a healthy work environment and solving problems they face.

Typically, HR managers need a bachelor’s degree in HR or something similar with some experience working in HR. However, some companies may prefer applicants with an HRM MBA. The average salary of HR managers is $136,350 per year.

  • Median pay: $136,350 per year
  • Work experience: 5 years or more
  • Employment growth: 5% from 2022 to 2032
  • Number Of jobs That Will Open (2022-2032): 10,000
Two person talking to each other in the office

Compensation & Benefits Manager

The compensation and benefits manager is responsible for ensuring the salary and benefits employees receive are fair and market-competitive. They’ll also conduct market research to monitor industry trends and make sure employees feel happy and valued.

As a compensation and benefits manager, you’ll also oversee employees’ bonuses, healthcare benefits, and retirement plans. The median salary you can earn as a compensation and benefits manager is $136,380 annually.

  • Median pay: $136,380 per year
  • Work experience: 5 years or more
  • Employment growth: 2% from 2022 to 2032
  • Number of jobs That Will Open (2022-2032): 400

Training & Development Manager

Another career option you can choose to pursue with your MBA in HRM is training and development manager. You’ll lead teams of staff that make and run professional development and training programs at a company. These professionals help individuals learn useful skills to help the company reach its goals.

The median salary is around $125,040 per year. According to the Bureau Of Labor Statistics, this job role is expected to grow 6% from 2022 to 2032.

  • Median pay: $125,040 per year
  • Work experience: 5 years or more
  • Employment growth: 6% from 2022 to 2032
  • Number of jobs That Will Open (2022-2032): 2700
A woman studying online

HR Information Systems Manager

The HRIS (human resources information systems) manager handles the setup and upkeep of a company’s HRIS software. They’re part of the HR team and help manage employee data such as recruitment, compensation, onboarding, performance management, and benefits.

The median salary of an HR information systems manager is $137,511 per year.

  • Median pay: $137,511 per year
  • Work experience: 3 years or more
  • Employment growth: 15% from 2022 to 2032
  • Number of jobs That Will Open (2022-2032): Over 86,000
Back to Top

What is an MBA in Human Resource Management (HRM)?

The MBA in human resource management is a graduate program designed to increase your HR skills. It typically takes two years to complete. However, students can take longer if they study part-time.

This degree is perfect for those who want to specialize in HR management within the broader business world and aim for leadership roles in HR to advance their careers. The curriculum covers management, business, and HR coursework.

Back to Top

Top Universities Offering MBA in HRM Program

Whether you want to work in human resources or are already in the field and want to progress, earning an MBA In HR from a reputable school is a smart decision. It helps you learn the organizational, leadership, and management skills necessary to succeed in this field.

Since many colleges and universities offer an MBA in HR, choosing one that best aligns with your career and educational goals can be challenging. Here are some of the best schools students should consider for an MBA in HRM program:

University NameLocationCost Per Credit (In-State/Out-of-State)Accreditation
Michigan State UniversityEast Lansing, MI$564 / $895AACSB
Nova Southeastern UniversityFort Lauderdale, FL$1350$AACSB
University of Wisconsin MadisonMadison, WI$1039 / $1948AACSB
University at AlbanyAlbany, NY$762 / $1174AACSB
Pennsylvania State University - World CampusUniversity Park, PA$1236Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Averett UniversityDanville, VA$655Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
  1. #1

    Michigan State University

    East Lansing , MI
    #20 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2024 #2 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2024 #2 Best Colleges in Michigan 2024 #2 Best Grad Schools in Michigan 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $17K

    Acceptance

    88%

    Graduation

    82%

    Student body

    54K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1260/28

    Career Outlook for Management degree at Michigan State University

    Cost of Degree: $20,382
    Expenses: $15,618
    Starting Salary: $93,747
    Salary after 4 years: $115,482
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of Michigan State University

    • Location:  East Lansing, MI
    • Estimated cost per credit: In-state $564, out-of-state $895
    • Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

    What Do We Love About Michigan State University?

    Michigan State University offers one of the best full-time MBA programs with a concentration in human resources and strategic management. In this course, students explore various business areas, such as supply chain management and finance, and learn about data and financial analysis.

    The MBA HRM program comprises 61 credits and typically lasts around 21 months. The curriculum has three main parts: MBA core courses, concentration courses, and elective courses. You can choose elective courses from the School of HR and Labor Relations.

    • Michigan State University is great for students who: Seek a degree program with an excellent reputation. An MBA in HR from Michigan State University can pave the way for many exciting opportunities.
    • Michigan State University might not be the best fit for students who: Aren’t among the best-ranking students in classes. Michigan State University is one of the most selective universities globally.
    Compare school
  2. #2

    Nova Southeastern University

    Fort Lauderdale , FL
    #3 Best Private Colleges in Florida 2024 #10 Best Grad Schools in Florida 2024 #10 Best Research Universities in Florida 2024 #10 Best Colleges in Florida 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $36K

    Acceptance

    76%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    24K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1175/23

    Career Outlook for Management degree at Nova Southeastern University

    Cost of Degree: $23,911
    Expenses: $20,570
    Starting Salary: $61,849
    Salary after 4 years: $75,746
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of Nova Southeastern University

    • Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL
    • Estimated cost per credit: $1350
    • Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

    What Do We Love About Nova Southeastern University?

    Nova Southeastern University is another institute that offers a credible MBA in human resource management. Provided by the Wayne Huizenga College of Business and Entrepreneurship, students can develop business acumen and gain skills in conflict resolution, training and development, and more.

    The human resource management program requires 40-49 credits and is very flexible. Students can take classes online or on campus in the evenings. The online MBA courses allow you to learn at your own pace. NSU’s business college also offers special help for career development.

    • Nova Southeastern University is great for students who: Want a top-quality education and a quick job placement after graduation.
    • Nova Southeastern University might not be the best fit for students who: Are looking for a quality education at an affordable price.

    Nova Southeastern University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Human Services Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Elementary Education ESOL/Reading
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Exceptional Student Education ESOL
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BHSc in Health Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSR in Respiratory Therapy Post-Professional Program
    • Required Credits: 39
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  3. #3

    University of Wisconsin–Madison

    Madison , WI
    #7 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2024 #12 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #17 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024 #19 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    49%

    Graduation

    89%

    Student body

    51K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1425/29

    Career Outlook for Management degree at University of Wisconsin–Madison

    Cost of Degree: $12,251
    Expenses: $17,198
    Starting Salary: $100,867
    Salary after 4 years: $124,253
    Cost Recoup Time: 3 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of the University of Wisconsin Madison

    • Location: Madison, WI
    • Estimated cost per credit: In-state $1039, out-of-state $1948
    • Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

    What Do We Love About the University of Wisconsin Madison?

    At the University of Wisconsin Madison, you can earn an MBA in human resources either online or on campus. It spans 52 credits, and you can study full-time or part-time. Some courses include marketplace ethics, staffing and evaluation, and labor-employee relations.

    Unlike most schools, it offers better job placements for graduates. Many students have secured jobs with companies such as Royal Capital Group, OshKosh, and KPMG. To apply, you’ll need relevant work history, a bachelor’s degree in business, or good scores on the GMAT or GREs.

    • University of Wisconsin Madison is great for students who: Are still looking for their major. The university has over 250 graduate programs to choose from.
    • University of Wisconsin Madison might not be the best fit for students who: Are from out of state since the university has a relatively high out-of-state tuition cost.
    Compare school
  4. #4

    University at Albany, SUNY

    Albany , NY
    #8 Best Public Colleges in New York 2024 #8 Most Affordable Colleges in New York 2024 #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity Degree Programs in New York #3 Most Affordable Online Sociology Doctorate Programs (PhDs)
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    68%

    Graduation

    66%

    Student body

    20K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1220/26

    Career Outlook for Management degree at University at Albany, SUNY

    Cost of Degree: $13,625
    Expenses: $18,698
    Starting Salary: $85,441
    Salary after 4 years: $105,249
    Cost Recoup Time: 4 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of the University at Albany

    • Location: Albany, NY
    • Estimated cost per credit: In-state $762, out-of-state $1174
    • Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

    What Do We Love About the University at Albany?

    Looking for a wallet-friendly MBA? You must check out the University at Albany’s program. They offer a concentration in human resource information systems, which costs $11,310 annually. The School of Business – which provides the program – is AACSB-certified, so you know you’re getting a quality education.

    This MBA in HRIS program is flexible. Students can enroll full-time or part-time and study evenings, weekends, or online. If they choose full-time, they can complete the degree in about a year; part-time takes around two years.

    • University at Albany is great for students who: Value diversity and inclusiveness. The university also offers a range of resources that students can leverage. 
    • University at Albany might not be the best fit for students who: Seek colleges with more live-on-campus opportunities and less commuting.
    • University at Albany might not be the best fit for students who: Don’t prefer a more urban setting for academics and learning.

    University at Albany, SUNY’s Online Degrees

    BS in Informatics
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  5. #5

    Pennsylvania State University

    #5 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in Pennsylvania 2024 #2 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity #3 15 Most Affordable Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
    Other Rankings

    Overview of Pennsylvania State University - World Campus

    • Location: University Park, PA
    • Estimated cost per credit: $1236
    • Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

    What Do We Love About the Pennsylvania State University - World Campus?

    Students enrolled in Penn State’s online MBA program can specialize in human resource management. They must finish a 39-credit core curriculum that teaches important business concepts.

    For students with an HRM concentration, there are nine extra credits to complete. Since some courses overlap, you can combine human resource management with other concentrations. Besides completing online coursework at their own pace, students are required to attend a three-day residency that provides opportunities to connect with classmates and professors.

    • Pennsylvania State University World Campus is great for students who: Pursue career options in the business field. The university offers one of the best MBA in HR programs.
    • Pennsylvania State University World Campus might not be the best fit for students who: Are searching for a conventional on-campus experience.
    Compare school
  7. #6

    Averett University

    Danville , VA
    #8 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2024 #9 Most Affordable Online Colleges Ranked for Students 2024 #10 Best Online Colleges for Students Who Work Part-Time #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Virginia
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $38K

    Acceptance

    76%

    Graduation

    46%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1010/19

    Career Outlook for Management degree at Averett University

    Cost of Degree: $11,940
    Expenses: $15,008
    Starting Salary: $54,507
    Salary after 4 years: $66,755
    Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of Averett University

    • Location: Danville, VA
    • Estimated cost per credit: $655
    • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

    What Do We Love About Averett University?

    Averett University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. It offers an online MBA program with a focus on human resource management. This program helps students understand advanced business principles from an HR perspective.

    The program is 40 credits long and covers important aspects of HR, such as employment laws, recruiting, training, and managing compensation and benefits.

    • Averett University World Campus is great for students who: Want accelerated degree programs. Students can complete the degree in 2 years or less.
    • Averett University World Campus might not be the best fit for students who: Aren’t comfortable with independent work and prefer traditional campus life.
    Compare school

Related Questions

Is an MBA in HR worth it?

Of course! Earning a human resource management MBA is worthwhile for students who wish to advance in HR and gain important business administration skills. On average, MBA graduates in HR earn $153,622 annually in the US.

Is an MBA in HR better than a master’s in human resources?

Both degrees open up similar career paths. However, if you didn’t study business as an undergraduate or you’re unsure about sticking with HR, an MBA could be a wise move for you.

Is a human resource management MBA degree program difficult to get into?

It depends on the program and school. Generally, it’s easier for students to get accepted to an online MBA in HR programs than traditional on-campus ones. Students with work experience also have better chances of getting admission. You need at least a 3.0 GPA and a GMAT score for many top programs.

Two women talking to each other on the table

Conclusion

If you want to advance in your HR career, consider getting an MBA with a focus on human resources. It’ll help you stand out when you apply for various leadership roles, such as human resource manager or compensation and benefits manager. Plus, it gives you an edge over other HR degrees. With an MBA in HRM, you can qualify for more (and better) jobs, earn a generous income, and take on greater responsibilities - whether at your current workplace or in a new company.

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