What can you do with a Master’s in Human Resources and Organization Development?

The essential knowledge, skills and credentials earned from a master’s in human resources equips you to advance your career and become an effective leader in the field. You’ll be prepared to advance your career as well as your potential earnings. Many graduates go on to land jobs as HR managers, which have a median annual salary of $121,220 (bls.gov).

Earning a master's in HR online can also boost your resume in a pool of candidates and set you up for long-term success by opening up future opportunities for continued career growth.

What jobs are available with an online human resources graduate degree?

Organizations across a variety of industries have a need for human resource professionals to effectively implement talent acquisition, guide continuously evolving workplace standards and more. The 2019-2029 occupational outlook for HR management positions is expected to grow 6% nationwide, which is faster than the average national occupation growth rate (bls.gov).

Graduates pursue and may assume roles as:

• Chief Human Resources Officer
• Principal, Organization Development Consultant
• Organizational Development Consultant
• Chief Operations and People Officer
• Chief Strategy and People Officer
• Learning and Development Director
• Talent Acquisition Vice President
• Talent Acquisition Director
• Human Resources Director
• Workforce Development Consultant
• Employee Relations Manager
• Training and Corporate Learning Director

"The University of Louisville online MSHROD program was perfect for me. My future or long-range goal is to become a VP of Talent. I have over seven years of experience in talent acquisition, and about three and a half years of DEI experience. I wanted to broaden that more into the organization development space and consulting within the HR space, and those programs within the MSHROD has all of that."

Raphael Garcia, M.S. HROD
Class of 2023

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Online MS HROD Application Deadlines

Note: We admit students on a rolling basis. The published deadlines help you complete the application process on time, be notified of acceptance and enroll before the term begins. Applications submitted after the deadline will be considered only for the next term. For example, applications submitted after DEC 10, will be considered for our Spring II term. We recommend you work on and submit your complete application well in advance of the published deadline, as obtaining transcripts and other materials may take more time.

How to Apply for the Online Master of Science in Human Resources and Organization Development

1. Start your application for graduate admission
2. Submit $65 non-refundable application fee
3. Upload required materials^*
4. Request official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities. Transcripts are only accepted directly from the institution(s) by email: gradadm@louisville.edu (recommended) or mail: University of Louisville, Graduate School, 2211 S. Brook St., Louisville, KY 40292.
5. Create a financial plan

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Online Master of Science in Human Resources and Organization Development Admissions Requirements and Materials

To be considered for admission, applicants must have:

• a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution
• a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale (effective Summer 2025; applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA may inquire about conditional acceptance)

*Required application packet materials are below are included in the HROD Application Checklist [PDF]:

• a 1-2 page, single-spaced goal statement that describes your interest in the MS HROD program; candidates should expand upon their personal and professional goals and alignment to the program and professional experiences and communicate your commitment to graduate education
• two letters of recommendation from individuals who can speak to the applicant’s academic and professional capabilities
• a current resume

*Your Application Portal:
Once you have started the graduate application, you can check the status and review any additional checklist to-do items. Log in to your application using the email address you used to apply for admission and your password. Your checklist items may include additional materials or documentation that facilitate a smooth admissions process. You will also have access to important contact information and next steps after an admissions decision is made.

Online MS HROD Transfer Credits

If you have received graduate credit from another institution, up to 6 credits may be transferred, if they directly replace a course or courses in the program*. Approval must be granted by the program.

*See the Graduate School Transfer of Credit Policy for more information.

Online MS HROD for International Applicants

If you live outside of the U.S. and intend to complete an online academic program at UofL from your home country, be sure to view special requirements for international students.

For more information on the admission and application process, please contact our Online Learning Enrollment Counselor at 800.871.8635 or by email at online@louisville.edu.

Online MS HROD Course Requirements & Offerings

The online MS HROD program is a 30 credit hour program that requires 18 credit hours in core courses and 12 credit hours in electives covering specialized topics including talent acquisition and management, methods of facilitation, and e-learning design and development. Courses are 100% online, asynchronous and delivered in 8-week terms.

The program is designed around research-based competencies from the Association for Talent Development (ATD), International Society for Performance Improvement (ISPI), and the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).

Online MS HROD Core Courses

Online MS HROD Electives

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Course Descriptions

Full-Time Faculty

Partner Faculty

Online MS HROD FAQs

The set of questions and answers outlined below can help you learn more about our program, delivery method, application and admission process, financial aid options and how to succeed as an online student at UofL. 

• What are the benefits of online learning?

  The biggest benefit of online learning is that you can work to earn your degree from your own home while raising a family, working full-time or experiencing particular life circumstances that make commuting to campus difficult or impossible.

• How is the online program different than the one on-campus?

  At UofL you are taught by the same world-class faculty as our on-campus students. You read the same books, do many of the same assignments and earn the same degrees. The biggest difference is that you are able to do it in a way best fits your lifestyle.

• What are optional synchronous meetings?

  Students may join 3-4 optional synchronous meetings, which are offered and led by faculty during the 8-week period. In these meetings, students may learn more about topics in the HR field, receive additional information about the program and connect with fellow online students and faculty, in addition to other topics of discussion.

• I am on active duty. Can I take online classes at UofL?

  Yes! You can take online classes from anywhere in the world, provided you have consistent Internet access.

• Can I receive credit for graduate courses completed at another institution?

  Earned graduate credit may be transferred from accredited institutions that offer advanced degrees. Generally, the maximum number of semester hours transferable, upon request, is six.

• Is the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) required for admission?

  No, the GRE is not required for admission.

• Is there a recommended course sequence for graduation?

  The HROD program is designed to be flexible to meet the needs of busy adults, therefore, we offer several paths based on your professional needs or personal circumstances. Below are suggestions and a few important requirements:

  • Students with full-time jobs may take up to two courses per semester.
  • Students with part-time jobs (or who are not currently working) may take three courses per semester, if desired.
  • Students desiring an HR emphasis should consider electives LEAD 612 and LEAD 631.
  • Students desiring a Workplace Learning emphasis should consider electives LEAD 663 and LEAD 672.
  • LEAD 617 must be taken in the first semester.
  • LEAD 616 must be taken in the last semester.
• What's the difference between an MS and an MA in Human Resources?

  A Master of Science and Master of Arts in Human Resource Management provide similar advanced training with some key differences. The main difference between the two degrees is that the MS programs emphasize research and theory while MA programs sometimes focus more on HR history and practical research. With less time on general topics, an MS builds well for those with a business/management background. Ultimately, most employers view the degrees as equal.

• How many credits is this online Human Resources master's degree?

  UofL's online MS HROD program consists of 30 credits, 18 of those being core courses and 12 being electives.

• What is the SHRM-CP exam?

  The SHRM-CP (Society for Human Resource Management-Certified Professional) designation is a special certification which is offered to professionals working in the Human Resources field. This certification allows HR professionals to advance their careers through demonstrated knowledge of various HR practices, policies, procedures and strategies or initiatives.

• Why get a master's degree in Human Resources?

  There are several key reasons to pursue a master's degree in Human Resources:

  • Gain advanced HR knowledge in areas like analytics, training, org development, and more
  • Prepare for upper-level leadership roles like Chief Human Resources Officer or Director of HR
  • Stand out when competing for HR manager and specialist jobs Increase credibility and strategic influence with an advanced degree
  • Learn the latest HR research, frameworks, and best practices
  • Expand your professional network
  • Position yourself for career advancement and higher earning potential
  • Fulfill requirements for certain HR certifications like SHRM-SCP

  The right graduate HR program provides the skills and credentials to take your career to the next level.

• Can you please tell me more about the Online Master's in HROD in Louisville, Kentucky?

  While the Online Human Resources program is 100% online, the University of Louisville College of Education & Human Development is located in beautiful Louisville, Kentucky, where southern charm meets urban innovation, creating a vibrant tapestry of culture, culinary delights, and friendly faces that beckon you to explore.

  All online MS HROD students are welcome to visit our wonderful campus at any time to meet with faculty, admissions team, career services, etc., and to participate in the university-wide commencement ceremony.

For answers to any other questions you might have, please submit an Information Request Form.