Human Resource Development MS


Human Resource Development: Online
Master of science degree
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A degree driven by real-time employer demand
These jobs will grow 11% over the next 10 years, twice the rate of the overall labor market.
The human resource development job market
97%
Graduate outcomes rate
40+
Years history in distance and online learning
200+
We’ve engaged learners from 206 countries and regions
550+
Online courses
Program Highlights
Offered out of RIT's Saunders College of Business, the MS degree in Human Resource Development is an innovative program that will prepare you to become a dynamic leader and strategic workforce partners within your organization. You will be able to evaluate, plan, and execute on your organization’s present and future workforce needs, as well as maximize the human potential you hire, retain, and grow.
Human development is at the heart of workplace development. Whether you are already working in the human resources field and wish to advance your career, or are beginning a career in human resources, you’ll graduate with this degree as a leader, strategist, and catalyst for the human potential in your organization.
RIT Saunders College of Business graduate programs are recognized by national and international rankings. Eduniversal 2019 Best Masters Ranking recognized the MS in Human Resource Development program as #21 Best Masters in Human Resource Management.
All students will take four core courses and five electives. To successfully complete the degree, you will choose to complete one of the following as a culminating experience:
- Thesis plus Principles of Research Communications
- Capstone project plus Principles of Research Communications
- Comprehensive exam plus Strategic Human Resource Development and one elective
In this program you will learn how to:
- Successfully plan and execute corporate strategy related to human capital
- Manage and develop talent to realize a higher return on investment and retain valuable employees
- Increase workforce productivity
- Balance the needs of people and profits
- Empower employees to retain and Improve customer relationships
- Form strategic alliances
Curriculum packed with high-demand skills

Quality
Demand for quality assurance and control is growing by 40%.

Analytics
Demand for performance analysis skills is growing by 8%.

Onboarding
Demand for onboarding strategy skills is growing by 56%.

Employer Demand
It’s in our DNA to deliver career-focused education that will have a direct and immediate impact on your career.
Curriculum
To successfully complete the degree, you will choose to complete one of the following as a culminating experience:
- Thesis
- Capstone project
Electives
Admission Requirements
- Hold a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution
- Submit official transcripts (in English) of all previously completed undergraduate and graduate course work
- Have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above (or evidence of relevant professional performance)
- Submit two letters of reference
- Submit a writing sample designated by the department
- Participate in an interview with a faculty member (when required by department)
- A test of English Language aptitude (TOEFL) is required of all applicants and course registrants whose native language is not English.
Cost
The online MS in Human Resource Development requires 33 credits and costs $1,191 per credit hour (Academic Year 2020 – 2021). This tuition reflects the RIT Online discount of 43% off the MS Human Resource Development campus-based program cost.
Keep in mind that there are many options available that may help you lower your costs including:
- Military tuition benefits
- Support from employers
- Private scholarships
- Financing
- Payment plans
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