Drexel University Human Resources Degree Programs

Human Resources Degree Program at Drexel University

Drexel University offers an online Master of Science (MS) degree program in Human Resource Development. This program is designed for professionals who are employee-focused and aims to prepare graduates to become strategic partners within their organizations, facilitating workplace learning, change, and maximizing employee performance.

Unlike Human Resource Management, which often focuses on transactional functions like recruitment and compliance, this Human Resource Development program prioritizes strategic aspects such as talent development, employee engagement and retention, training, leadership development, and succession management. It is recognized by the Academy of Human Resource Development as a Program of Excellence and aligns with core competencies espoused by organizations like the Association for Talent Development (ATD), Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), International Society for Performance Improvement (ISPI), and the OD Network.

Program Structure & Curriculum

The program is delivered entirely online, offering flexibility for working professionals. Drexel operates on a quarter system, allowing students to take more courses in a shorter time period compared to a traditional semester system. The program requires a total of 45.0-46.5 credit hours.

The curriculum includes core courses, Human Resource Development specific courses, a capstone requirement (with Practitioner or Thesis track options), and professional electives. Sample courses include: EDCR 510 Leadership in Educational Contexts and Systems, EHRD 500 Foundations of Human Resources Development, and EHRD 612 Strategic Human Resource Development.

Detailed course descriptions can be viewed via the provided link.

Admissions & Tuition

Admission requires a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution with a GPA of 3.0 or higher (a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above including graduate work may be considered). Provisional admission may be granted for GPAs below 3.0, and an interview is required for GPAs below 2.75. Required documents include a completed application, official transcripts from all institutions attended, two to three letters of recommendation, a personal statement (500-750 words), and a resume. Additional requirements apply to International Students. Information on completing your application can be found here.

For the 2024-2025 academic year, the tuition rate for online graduate programs is $1111 per credit (representing a 25% savings off the regular rate). There is also a graduate online program fee of $125 per year. The program is eligible for Financial Aid. Special tuition rates are available for Drexel University Alumni, Military members, and members of Partner Organizations (including a 30% savings for ATD, SHRM, and other partner organization members). These special rates apply only to new and readmitted online students and cannot be combined.

The next application deadline is Monday, August 25, 2025. You can apply or resume your application here. Information regarding readmission is available here.

Career Prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles in various sectors including government, education, corporations, non-profits, and NGOs. Potential job titles include Human Resources Business Partner, Training and Development Manager, and Organizational Development Consultant.

Drexel University Human Resources Degree Program Highlights

• Prepare to become a strategic partner facilitating workplace learning and change.
• Uniquely positioned at the intersection of education, psychology, and business.
• Learn from and network with leading researchers and practitioners in the field.
• Curriculum includes the most up-to-date technology, tools, and trends.
• Classes are entirely online for scheduling flexibility.
• Recognized by the Academy of Human Resource Development as a Program of Excellence.
• Aligned with core competencies from ATD, SHRM, ISPI, and OD Network.
• Special tuition savings available for ATD, SHRM, military, alumni, and partner organization members.

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