A Master of Business Administration (MBA) in human resources is an advanced degree with a specialized focus on topics such as human resources management, recruiting, employee retention, compensation and other related areas. This degree helps to prepare professionals for today’s ever-evolving human resources guidelines, laws and workplace environments.
An MBA in human resources teaches essential skills required to become a leader in human resources within a range of industries, including healthcare, retail, manufacturing, technology and many others. This article discusses the specific coursework the degree covers, new skills you will gain, career options and how Southeastern Oklahoma State University’s online MBA with a Concentration in Human Resources program helps you achieve your personal and professional goals.
What Is an MBA in Human Resources?
An MBA in human resources degree program covers topics in business fundamentals, like accounting, finance, data analysis, behavioral management and economics, while also specializing in human resources. Key areas of focus in a human resources MBA include employee relations, training, benefits management, and strategies for HR techniques and leadership skills that support positive organizational change. An MBA in human resources also teaches students how to integrate HR best practices with business strategies to support sustainability and growth.
Coursework includes lessons on how to analyze data trends to make well-informed recommendations and how to gain supervisory management skills. Ideal candidates for this degree include working professionals or entrepreneurs who want to increase their focus on HR, as well as those who aim to secure a leadership role in the field. Professionals who enjoy working with people and want to learn more about labor issues, along with those with strong organizational skills, are also ideal candidates.
What Skills Will You Gain in an MBA in HR Program?
While pursuing your degree, you’ll gain a variety of technical and soft skills required for success in human resources. Some examples of technical skills include strategic human resources management, data analysis and visualization, compensation and benefits administration, and HR compliance. You will also gain the technical skills needed to use HR software and manage employee data, benefits and payroll.
A range of interpersonal skills is also crucial in the field of human resources. Some of the skills students obtain while in Southeastern’s online MBA HR program include leadership, communication and collaboration. Students learn how to work with business leaders to implement policies that support organizational goals and how to use conflict management skills to resolve and manage complex ethical issues in the workplace.
What Are the Career Paths and Job Outlook With an HR MBA?
Typical professional roles for graduates with an MBA in human resources include HR manager, HR specialist, compensation and benefits manager, senior HR consultant, vice president of human resources, and employee relations manager. While salaries vary based on factors like experience and location, data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows the median annual salary for a human resources manager was $140,030 in 2024.
Demand for experienced HR leaders is high due to business expansion, churn and the increased need for human resources professionals who can act as change agents to help meet strategic organizational goals. An MBA in human resources degree is highly versatile and provides a range of opportunities in industries like technology, retail, healthcare, service and hospitality, construction and education. Advanced credentials and experience play a factor in what capacity and in which industries graduates may work.
Why Should You Earn an MBA in HR?
An MBA in Human Resources equips you with the expertise to manage talent strategically, shape workplace culture and implement initiatives that drive organizational success. Southeastern’s program combines advanced HR coursework with leadership training, preparing graduates to guide teams and influence organizational outcomes.
If you aspire to make a meaningful impact on the lives of employees, an MBA in HR degree offers the skills and the network to excel. Graduates develop the mindset needed for key leadership roles while connecting with faculty, alumni and classmates, and acquire the tools necessary to lead change and advance to higher positions in the workplace.
Inside Southeastern’s Online MBA in HR Program
Southeastern’s online MBA in Human Resources program includes core MBA courses and specialized coursework with a focus on HR strategies. You’ll learn how to empathetically address sensitive topics, while also using evidence-based reasoning and analyzing complex HR-related documents.
The John Massey School of Business at Southeastern is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB International), ensuring that your business courses meet the global standard for business education. The affordable tuition lets you pay as you go, and the 100% online courses provide the flexibility to succeed while retaining your current career.
Advance Your Career in Human Resources Today
An MBA in human resources equips grads with vital leadership and strategic HR management skills needed for success. Southeastern’s affordable online program provides you with a direct pathway to high-level HR leadership roles.
Explore Southeastern’s website to learn more details about this specialized degree program. Submit your application today to Southeastern’s online MBA in Human Resources program to begin your journey toward an HR leadership role.