The HR Department performs a wide variety of functions, which are commonly categorized as Human Resource Management (or Administration) and Human Resource Development. These functions may include:

• Information systems
• Employee relations and assistance
• Union/labor relations
• Compensation and benefits
• Job design
• Human capital planning
• Performance management systems
• Recruitment and selection
• Organizational and individual learning
• Knowledge Management

HR practitioners should have a solid foundation of understanding across the range of functions, as well as business acumen.

We believe that skilled individuals, committed to excellence, can become catalysts for positive change in their organizations. We work closely with our students to help them apply principles of human performance management and employee development to drive business results. We are revolutionizing human resource practices, one student at a time.

The degree requires completion of a minimum of 48 quarter credit hours at the graduate level, and can usually be completed in four consecutive quarters. However, the majority of students attend part time and take three years to complete the program. Students must maintain a 3.0 average and complete the degree within seven years of the first course counted toward the degree.

Students choose electives that best meet their career interests. All elective courses must be graduate-level or approved for graduate credit. Courses may be taken in other graduate-level programs at RIT and other institutions with permission of the adviser. A maximum of 12 quarter credit hours (not counted toward another degree) may be transferred from another college or university and counted toward the program's requirements, or may be granted for human resource experience.

Upon matriculation, each student is assigned an adviser. Together, the student and adviser develop a plan of study. For specific questions about courses and a plan of study, the adviser or program chair should be consulted.

Required courses:

Choose three of the following courses:

Electives:

Prior to being admitted to the MS program, applicants must illustrate that their previous training, ability, practical experience, and education indicate a reasonable chance of success. The complete list of admission requirements includes the following:

• Graduate application
• Baccalaureate degree or equivalent from an accredited institution
• Official undergraduate transcript(s) (in English)
• Two professional recommendations
• A resume
• Undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or above, or evidence of relevant professional performance.
• Foundation course work with grades of 3.0 or higher (if required)

The Test of English as a Foreign Language is required for international students. Applicants must achieve a minimum score of at least 570 (paper-based), 230 (computer-based), or 88-89 (Internet-based) to be considered for admission. Scores from the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam will be accepted in place of the TOEFL exam. The absolute minimum score for an unconditional acceptance is 6.5.