Western Carolina University Human Resources Degree Programs

Human Resources Degree Program at Western Carolina University

Western Carolina University offers a Master of Science (M.S.) in Human Resources program. This program is delivered entirely online, specifically designed to accommodate the needs of busy adult learners. The curriculum is a 36-semester hour program.

The M.S. in Human Resources aims to equip students with the necessary analytical, interpersonal, and leadership skills to work as human resources leaders. The program’s design is aligned with HR competencies identified by prominent organizations in the field, including the Association for Talent Development (ATD), the HR Certification Institute (HRCI), Bersin by Deloitte, the Association for Human Resource Development (AHRD), and the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) Graduate HR Curriculum Guidelines.

Core competencies are developed across four key Leadership Competency domains: Relational HR Leadership, Strategic HR Leadership, Operational HR Leadership, and Ethical & Socially Responsible HR Leadership. The curriculum covers essential topics such as research and evaluation methods, employee and labor relations, legal issues, and performance management. Students have the opportunity to learn from seasoned human resources professionals.

The program has received recognition, being ranked as the third best online human resources program out of 40 nationwide by the distance education clearinghouse, GetEducated.com.

Graduates of the program are prepared for diverse roles in the human resources field, working in environments ranging from Fortune 500 companies to local governments and non-profits. Job descriptions can vary widely, including roles in payroll, risk management, and hiring. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for human resources managers is $136,350, with the job field projected to grow 6% by 2033.

Prospective students interested in the program can explore options such as applying, visiting the campus (or online equivalents), or contacting Graduate Admissions. Information regarding specific course requirements is available, though no direct link is provided in the source text.

Western Carolina University Human Resources Degree Program Highlights

• Fully online program designed for busy adult learners.
• Curriculum aligns with competencies from leading HR organizations (ATD, HRCI, Bersin, AHRD, SHRM).
• Focuses on four key Leadership Competency domains: Relational, Strategic, Operational, and Ethical & Socially Responsible HR Leadership.
• Ranked 3rd best online human resources program nationwide by GetEducated.com.
• 36-semester hour curriculum covers topics like legal issues, performance management, employee relations, and research methods.
• Learn from seasoned human resources professionals.
• Prepares graduates for diverse HR leadership roles in various sectors.

You can view detailed information about the programs or certificates available at Western Carolina University on the NCES website.