MS in Human Resources and Employment Relations

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

Pennsylvania State University University Park

Program Overview

The Master of Human Resources and Employment Relations (MHRER) at Pennsylvania State University prepares professionals for strategic HR leadership by combining human resource management, employment relations, business strategy, and workplace policy. Delivered 100% online through Penn State World Campus, the 30–33-credit program develops expertise in employment law, talent management, employee engagement, people analytics, organizational performance, and international HR, making it suitable for both experienced professionals and career changers.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Students establish a strong foundation through Labor and Employment Law (HRER 501), Seminar in Employment Relations (HRER 504), Seminar in Human Resources (HRER 505), and Research Methods and Analytics in Human Resources and Employment Relations (HRER 512). They also explore workplace policies, employee relations, research methods, and strategic HR practices.

Year 2: Students advance their expertise through Human Behavior and Organizational Performance (HRER 802), Human Resources in Multinational Enterprises (HRER 803), Diversity and Ethics in the Workplace (HRER 865), and Strategic Business Tools for HRER Professionals (HRER 825). They customize their studies through electives in talent management, leadership development, total rewards, and international employment relations, before completing the Research Project (HRER 894).

The university offers flexible, accelerated seven-week courses and does not prescribe a fixed two-year course sequence. Eligible professionals with at least three years of relevant full-time experience may qualify for a three-credit elective waiver.

Focus Areas

Strategic Human Resource Management, Labor and Employment Law, Employee Relations, Talent Management, HR Research and Analytics, Organizational Performance, Diversity and Workplace Ethics, Compensation and Benefits, International HR Management, Workforce Development.

Learning Outcomes

Develop strategic HR policies, analyze workforce data, understand employment legislation, manage employee relations, design talent acquisition strategies, improve employee engagement, manage organizational performance, promote workplace diversity, apply ethical decision-making, and align HR practices with business objectives.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

SHRM Academic Alignment: The program is SHRM Academically Aligned, with curriculum content mapped to SHRM's HR Curriculum Guidebook. Penn State World Campus is also an HRCI-approved provider, offering qualified students opportunities to earn professional recertification credits.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Industry relevance: Penn State World Campus has more than two decades of experience in online education, supported by the university's long history of distance learning. The program provides career coaching, employer connections, internship resources, and access to Penn State's extensive alumni network. Specific program-level employment rates and graduate salary statistics are not published.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Pennsylvania State University, University Park, the MS in Human Resources and Employment Relations program is designed to provide students with a rich blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Through a variety of experiential learning opportunities, students engage in real-world applications that prepare them for successful careers in HR and employment relations. The program emphasizes hands-on experiences, collaborative projects, and access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources that enhance learning.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in the program:

- Internships and Field Experiences: Students have the chance to participate in internships with leading organizations, allowing them to apply classroom knowledge in professional settings and gain valuable industry insights.

- Group Projects: Collaborative projects are a core component of the curriculum, fostering teamwork and communication skills essential for HR professionals.

- Access to Software Tools: Students utilize industry-standard HR software, such as SAP SuccessFactors and Workday, to gain proficiency in essential HR technologies.

- Research Opportunities: The program encourages students to engage in research projects, often in collaboration with faculty, which can lead to publications and presentations at conferences.

- Networking Events: Regular networking events and workshops connect students with industry professionals, enhancing their career readiness and professional connections.

- Dedicated Facilities: The program benefits from access to specialized facilities, including the Center for Human Resources and the Institute for the Study of Labor, which provide resources for research and collaboration.

- Library Resources: Students have access to extensive library resources, including databases and journals specific to human resources and employment relations, supporting their academic and research needs.

- Field Trips: The program often includes field trips to local businesses and organizations, providing students with firsthand insights into HR practices and workplace dynamics.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The MS in Human Resources and Employment Relations at Pennsylvania State University University Park prepares graduates for a dynamic career in HR and related fields. With a strong emphasis on practical skills and theoretical knowledge, students can expect to pursue roles such as HR Manager, Labor Relations Specialist, and Talent Acquisition Consultant. The program equips you with the tools to thrive in various organizational settings:

- University Services: The Career Services office offers personalized career counseling, resume workshops, and networking events specifically tailored for HR students. Additionally, the Penn State Alumni Association provides access to a vast network of professionals in the field.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to recent data, graduates from the program have a high employment rate, with over 90% securing jobs within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for MS graduates in HR is approximately $70,000, with potential for growth as you gain experience.

- University–Industry Partnerships: Penn State has established partnerships with leading organizations such as Deloitte, IBM, and Johnson & Johnson, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world projects that enhance learning and employability.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), ensuring that the education you receive meets the highest standards of quality and relevance in the field.

- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni of the program have gone on to hold influential positions in top companies, demonstrating the program's effectiveness in preparing students for successful careers.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the MS in Human Resources and Employment Relations, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a Ph.D. in Human Resource Management or a related field. This advanced degree can open doors to academic positions, research opportunities, and higher-level consulting roles, allowing you to contribute to the evolution of HR practices and policies on a broader scale.