Human Resources Development (HRD) MS

Overview

The program for Human Resources Development provides students with opportunities to study the theories and practices of human resources development and prepares them for positions in a variety of organizational and industrial settings. The program content is founded in competencies defined by professional organizations in the field of HRD, such as ASTD and SHRM. Through content courses in human resources development and related topics – such as research methods, group dynamics, and cultural diversity – and through workplace experiences, students will acquire the necessary skills to be successful human resources development professionals. Because of the rapid changes occurring in organizations, the marketplace, and societies in general, organizations must prepare their people to adapt to those changes within their organizations.

The program in Human Resources Development is offered using a cohort model. Cohorts of up to 25 students complete the program as a group taking the courses in sequence. This format allows for cooperative learning and facilitates the development of teamwork, interpersonal skills, and important professional networks. Cohorts will typically begin on campus in September and off campus in February.

Admission

Students are selected for the Human Resources Development program based on the following criteria:

• an official transcript verifying completion of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.75*;
• three letters of recommendation from undergraduate faculty or employers;
• a written goal statement describing the applicant’s personal and professional goals as they relate to the program of study.
• students may transfer a maximum of nine graduate credits from another accredited college or university with the approval of the program coordinator.

*Students not meeting this criterion may be admitted to the program on a conditional basis. Full acceptance status will be reviewed after the student has completed nine credits in the program. Students with a cumulative grade point average of 3.00 or better and no more than one “C” grade will be fully accepted into the program.

Courses