Human Resources Management, MS

The Human Resources Management program is rooted in the Jesuit liberal arts tradition and prepares students to be proactive in their pursuit of fairness and equity within the workplace. The program is designed to educate students in the theory and practice of processes used to promote effective performance, development, and job satisfaction of employees. A strong knowledge base of theory is critical to the successful practice of human resource management, and students will be actively engaged in the application of theory and how those applications can influence the effectiveness of organizations.

The changing nature of work as influenced by social, economic, technological and educational forces is explored, both nationally and globally. Further, students will develop excellence in written expression and the effective utilization of technological advances.

Specifically, the program is designed to: 1. Prepare individuals academically to enter leadership positions; 2. Enhance the performance of individuals employed in leadership positions, but lacking academic training and credentials; and 3. Prepare individuals academically to enter or advance in a variety of human-resource-related positions and departments. The program emphasizes an active learning environment wherein the student can acquire knowledge, gain practical skills, and engage in self-exploration and personal growth. Prospective students should be aware that the human resource management program is not a business program and is not intended to be the equivalent of an MBA program.

SHRM Alignment

The online Master of Science in Human Resources Management program offers a curriculum that fully aligns with the Society for Human Resource Management’s (SHRM) HR Curriculum Guidebook and Templates.

Employment Opportunities

According the Occupational Outlook Handbook, US Dept of Labor, employment of human resources specialists is projected to grow 8 percent, about as fast as the average for all occupations from 2012-2022.

The Program

The human resource management curriculum requires 33 credits offered in six 8-week terms each academic year. Courses are offered in a web-based delivery format utilizing the Engage course management system. Computer applications are utilized throughout the curriculum; therefore, entering students are expected to have proficiency in word processing, spreadsheet, and Internet applications. The prerequisite courses, HR 500 - Organizational Behavior & Leadership and HR 501 - Human Resources, provide foundational knowledge in organization concepts, theories and human resources practices and should be taken as the first two courses. The capstone course, HR 520 - Capstone: Applied HR, is normally taken in the final semester prior to graduation and draws upon the knowledge, skills, and abilities developed throughout the HR program.

Capstone Experience

Students must prepare a comprehensive capstone project. It may combine written, oral, and experiential components and will require understanding integration and application of what has previously been learned throughout the curriculum. These projects are done in HR 520, which is the capstone course for the Human Resource Management program. 

Professional Certification

Students are encouraged to join The University of Scranton chapter of the Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) and other professional organizations. Students can obtain information about professional organizations from the web sites listed below. Organizations that offer certification are noted with an asterisk (*).