Read all about an Online Masters Degree in Human Resources

If you are thinking about an Online Masters Degree in Human Resources then you should read all of the following resource. The field of human resources spans an extensive range of career path possibilities. Individuals who have a knack for business and are looking for an engaging occupational path that blends managerial prowess, people skills and creative thinking may want to consider returning to school to pursue an online master's degree in human resources.

A degree in this field may help prepare you to pursue an engaging career in human resources. Occupations along this path can be found in a variety of industries, from medicine to academic institutions to law. Many organizations require human resources departments to survive, so choosing to pursue a career in this field may cement your status as an integral part of your company's future.

A glimpse into the realm of business with a Master's Degree in Human Resources

Employees in human resources are essential for the survival of many businesses. These workers are in charge of developing policies, training initiatives and hiring practices for all staff members. While there are several occupational paths you may pursue with your online master's degree in human resources, many will require frequent contact with the entirety of a company's workforce, as you'll be developing and enforcing policies that will affect employees each day.

Pursuing a master's degree in human resources allows students the opportunity to gain more in-depth knowledge about one specific aspect of the field, whether people are interested in pursuing careers as trainers, managers or interviewers. Courses cover an expansive array of topics, from basic business to strategic planning. With a master's degree in human resources, students could learn about the different methods, programs and technologies that may greatly influence the business world and the people who comprise the work forces.

Possible salaries for those with a Master's Degree in Human Resources

Since there are many possible career paths in human resources - some of which require a more specialized knowledge base - the salaries vary based on position, education level,  location, and experience in the field. Consider the following careers and their salaries, with data compiled by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2012.

  • Compensation and benefits managers: 2012 Median annual salary of $95,250 (3 percent projected growth through 2022)[i]
  • Training and development managers: 2012 Median annual salary of $95,400 (11 percent projected growth through 2022)[ii]
  • Top executives: 2012 Median annual salary of $101,650 (11 percent projected growth through 2022)[iii]

Additional skills required for a career in human resources

To pursue a successful career in human resources, individuals must have a strong desire to work alongside a variety of people who are employed in departments and industries across the entire company. Since representatives in this field must remain in charge of communication and policies for all workers, they have to be willing and eager to listen to problems as they arise, as well as equipped to provide effective and meaningful solutions to conflicts.

Those who wish to pursue their online master's degree in human resources must enjoy reading materials pertaining to this area and staying up to date with news and trends that affect employee wellness and performance. 


[i] bls.gov/ooh/management/compensation-and-benefits-managers.htm | [ii] bls.gov/ooh/management/training-and-development-managers.htm | [iii] bls.gov/ooh/management/top-executives.htm