Get an Online Master's Degree in the Fast Growing Field of Human Resources

If you want a career in Human Resources, or advancement in that career, you are not alone. This is a fast-growing field with median annual incomes ranging from $45,470 to $96,130 in May of 2008, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The Bureau forecasts 22 per cent growth in HR between 2008 and 2018. In fact, the HR management field is projected to grow faster than the average for all other occupations. No wonder it is highly competitive.

Why Get a Master's Degree in Human Resources?

Advanced opportunities and higher income potential increase with education; there is more to learn about this field than ever. It has changed a great deal from the days when hiring and firing were the main duties of the HR person. Now, HR specialists need expert knowledge in labor relations, payroll management, health care and other benefits, and contemporary recruiting methods. They are charged with the responsibility of attracting, motivating and retaining high caliber employees for specific jobs, and working strategically with management. A Master's degree in Human Resources is a signal to prospective employers of serious interest and preparation.

Can You Get a Credible Master's Degree in HR online?

Indeed you can. Many business schools offer a distance learning option in their MBA programs, including Masters of Business Administration specializing in Human Resources management. Also, Master of Science degrees in Human Resource Management, or Human Resource Development are available at many universities, through distance learning. Check with universities to find out what they offer.

The Benefit of an Online HR Master's Degree

The proliferation of online Masters degree programs is evidence of a growing need for advanced education that doesn't take students away from family and job responsibilities. Earnings don't have to stop during the one or two years it takes to earn the accelerated degree, locations don't matter, and there may be substantial savings. (At accredited schools, these are not dumbed-down degrees by the way. In fact, the studies may be more difficult.)

Students like the flexibility of interactive multimedia coursework available 24/7, and a virtual campus with student interaction, web seminars, and extensive online libraries.

HR Master's Degree: Online Schools to Choose

GetEducated.com lists 18 schools offering Master's degrees in Human Resources, ranked by affordability, and ranging in cost from $8,100 to just over $22,000. The list is based on a Fall 2009 survey of regionally accredited and regional candidate online HR Masters degree programs. Included are the University of Texas, University of Denver, University of Wisconsin and the Florida Institute of Technology. For the complete listing, go to this site.

Sources:

Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook.

http://humanresources.about.com/od/hrbasicsfaq/a/jobs_earnings.htm

www.geteducated.com

http://stats.bls.gov/oco/ocos021.htm#earnings

http://rehaul.com/why-hr-pros-should-pursue-a-mba/