Human Resource departments are the backbone of the workplace, and the need for those with good communication, leadership and management skills, such as qualified MBA human resources personnel, are critical for ensuring smooth business operations worldwide. In fact, many diverse job opportunities await those with a Master of Business Administration in Human Resources as older workers head toward retirement, opening up administrative and management positions. In light of this situation, the Society for Human Resource Management reports that one of the top priorities of business owners is to invest in the training and development of new Human Resource professionals. For those seeking career opportunities in multiple employment markets, obtaining an MBA in Human Resources may be an educational choice to consider.

Overview of Human Resource Management Jobs

All places of employment require individuals who understand how to manage people and resources for optimum job performance. Human Resource personnel oversee many day-to-day employee operations, including recruiting and training new hires, managing labor relations, and monitoring ethics, legal and business standards in the workplace. Entry-level positions entail assisting with these types of job responsibilities through data-collection and other types of clerical duties. For those with advanced degrees, such as an MBA in Human Resource Management, responsibilities involve more hands-on oversight of personnel, conducting interviews, creating employee training programs, managing compensation and benefits packages, and developing improved behavioral organization within the workplace.

Entrance Requirements and Program Formats for a Human Resources MBA

A Human Resources MBA is often noted as a Master’s of Business Administration with concentrations or specializations in Human Resource Management. Students may enter an MBA Human Resources program with any accredited undergraduate degree. However, for those coming into the profession without a business background, prerequisite coursework at the undergraduate level usually must be completed in addition to master’s level work.

Many candidates for a Human Resources MBA are working professionals looking to advance in their current position or expand their career options. Therefore, most MBA Human Resources programs are flexible in nature, offering part-time or evening classes in multiple formats, including on-campus or online alternatives. Often, programs coordinate with businesses to fast-track degrees as master’s work progresses, allowing candidates to earn certificates in skill areas valued by employers, which can lead to job advancement prior to degree completion.

Human Resources MBA – Course of Study

Programs average 30-36 credit hours and take about 18-24 months to complete. Degree goals are to develop advanced strategic skills in HR management practices and implement those skills in the workplace. Topics of in-depth study often include: business management principles, accounting, business law and ethics, organizational development and change, managing diversity and human relationships, organizational leadership, training and development programs, employee benefits programs, systems of compensation, marketing, and operational dynamics.

Related Resources: Different Types of MBA Degrees

Graduates with a Human Resources MBA provide businesses with ethical, caring leadership and are able to coordinate workforce services while encouraging personnel to work at their highest job performance levels. The importance of these lynchpins of the business world is reflected by the projected increase of 13% for management and administrative positions nationwide in the next decade, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. At a time when job security and advancement is decreasing in other fields, employment in the human resource management field is expanding across industries, making a Human Resources MBA a wise choice for those looking to move ahead in their careers.