edX Online

Online master’s in human resources

Online master's in human resources programs teach leadership, development, and management skills. Discover top programs, career paths, and admissions requirements.

Explore online master’s in human resources programs

Why earn an online master's in human resources?

Advanced knowledge

Master's students can learn about complex human resource topics, including labor relations, workplace ethics, and conflict management.

Flexibility

Asynchronous programs can allow you to work and study simultaneously.

Career benefits

Master's degree-holders can access higher-than-average salaries and promotion opportunities.


Online master's in human resources (HR) programs can teach you about HR strategies, leadership skills, and development methods. Some programs allow you to specialize in fields like executive coaching and global talent management. Discover in human resources, degree benefits, and popular career paths.

Find the right master’s in human resources for you

What can you do with an online master's in human resources degree?

As a graduate of a master's in human resources program, you can qualify for jobs across a wide array of industries.

Below are possible roles in human resources that you can pursue after earning your master's, with data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

What can you learn in an online master's in human resources program?

Online master's in human resources programs prepare students to pursue advanced roles in the field. Programs typically consist of 24-30 credits, depending upon the program's curriculum and your concentration area. Full-time students can complete the program within one to two years.

Master's in human resources programs can teach you about talent retention, HR analytics, and employee relations. Graduates can design comprehensive human resource strategies, align corporate values with HR plans, and use data to analyze strategic goals. Some programs may offer specialization tracks, including leadership, diversity, compensation, and people analytics.

Some MBA programs may also offer HR concentrations, but offer different benefits and curriculums.

Admissions for an online master's in human resources programs

Online master's in human resources programs have various admissions requirements, but most commonly require the following:

  • A bachelor's degree from an accredited university
  • A minimum GPA of 3.0 or above
  • Personal essay
  • Résumé
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Official transcripts

Most programs do not require you to submit standardized test scores, but check specific program requirements for more information.

Frequently asked questions