2026 Most Affordable Online Master's Degrees in Human Resources
Find the cheapest online master's in human resources with trusted tuition data and read authentic student experiences.
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The most affordable online master鈥檚 in human resources programs offer a flexible path to building strategic skills in talent management and organizational development. They prepare graduates for leadership roles in HR while staying under $8,000 in yearly tuition.
Key Takeaways:
- The gap between the cheapest HR master's program at Midwestern State University and the 15th-ranked school, Wayne State College is only ~$3,200 per year. So, students should compare other factors like salary outcomes and student satisfaction.
- 12 of the 15 HR master's programs have identical in-state and out-of-state tuition rates.
- Concordia University reports a median salary of $81,217 among HR graduates, which is the highest reported salary on the list, despite ranking 12th for affordability.
Further below, we interviewed an HR Manager who shared advice about how to compare affordable online HR master's degrees.
How We Rank "Most Affordable" Schools
The OnlineU research team manually collects and verifies tuition data for every school on our lists, ensuring you see accurate, up-to-date costs whether you're pursuing an associate, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral program. To qualify, schools must offer fully online degrees, hold institutional accreditation, and have verifiable enrollment data through the National Center for Education Statistics. While some of our rankings include partner schools, every school is evaluated using the exact same criteria.
We prioritize schools that offer a consistent tuition rate across programs at the same degree level, so you're not caught off guard by unexpected price differences between majors, and for graduate programs we go a step further by individually calculating program costs since credit requirements and fees vary widely.
2026 Most Affordable Online Master's Degrees in Human Resources
| Rank | School | Annual In-State Tuition | Annual Out-of-State Tuition | Recommendation | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Midwestern State University | $4,257 | $10,332 | 93% | N/A | |
| Western Carolina University | $4,568 | $15,287 | 97% | $73,132 | |
| Fort Hays State University | $5,231 | $5,231 | 82% | N/A | |
| Wichita State University | $5,260 | $5,260 | 81% | N/A | |
| Union Commonwealth University | $5,550 | $5,550 | 100% | N/A | |
| Athens State University | $5,700 | $5,700 | 100% | N/A | |
| Briar Cliff University | $6,006 | $6,006 | 50% | N/A | |
| Columbia Southern University | $6,462 | $6,462 | 79% | N/A | |
| American Public University System | $6,825 | $6,825 | 79% | N/A | |
| University of Arkansas | $6,895 | $6,895 | 93% | N/A | |
| SUNY Empire State University | $7,065 | $8,475 | 62% | N/A | |
| Concordia University - St. Paul | $7,125 | $7,125 | 87% | $81,217 | |
| Troy University | $7,125 | $7,125 | 86% | $64,650 | |
| University of Alabama | $7,200 | $7,200 | 95% | N/A | |
| Wayne State College | $7,416 | $7,416 | 68% | N/A |
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- MSU stands out first and foremost for having the cheapest yearly tuition of just $4,257 for in-state students. (However, this jumps up to more than double for those out-of-state.)
- MSU's M.A. in HR Development is structured around helping organizations develop people through training, employee assistance, communication, and professional growth initiatives. So, rather than centering the curriculum around HR policy or employment law, the program includes courses such as Career Development Counseling, Employee Assistance Issues, HR Development Ethical Issues, and Communication Skills for Human Resource Development.
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Midwestern State University are largely favorable, driven by solid ratings, broad willingness to recommend, and repeated praise for affordability, small classes, and accessible professors. Many describe a close-knit campus that feels personal without being limiting, with helpful advisors, supportive faculty, flexible online or mixed formats, and manageable coursework for working adults. Several also highlight meaningful social connection, campus involvement, and practical preparation. Criticisms center on uneven program quality, especially in certain health fields, where reviewers cite poor communication, rigid grading, hidden costs, mentorship challenges, outdated facilities, limited scholarships, parking frustrations, and funding shortfalls that affect equipment and course scheduling.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 593 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 43%
- Retention Rate: 64%
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- WCU has built real consulting work directly into the curriculum and has accumulated a measurable track record of client engagements over more than a decade.
- Through two online consulting courses, students work directly with nonprofit and small-business clients, analyzing HR challenges, developing recommendations, and delivering solutions designed for real-world implementation. The school reports that students have worked with 384 organizations and completed 569 projects through its consulting initiative.
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray Western Carolina University as a generally well-regarded, student-centered institution distinguished by approachable professors, small classes, and a strong teaching focus rather than a research-first culture. Many reviewers value the mountain setting, outdoor recreation, safety, and the sense of community, while online learners also praise flexible course delivery. Cost is often described as competitive or affordable, especially when transfer credits help reduce expenses. Concerns center on limited financial aid, expensive books, remote location, inconsistent technology, aging housing, and occasional weak career guidance. A few reviewers also mention overcrowded dining, schedule changes, and the need for strong self-discipline to thrive.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 629 enrolled
- Median Earnings: $73,132
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 60%
- Retention Rate: 79%
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- This has a master's in professional studies framework that combines HR management with sociology, leadership, global HR, communication, and business coursework. As such, the curriculum draws from multiple disciplines, creating a program that delves into organizations as the complex human systems they are.
- It includes Advanced Sociological Research as a core requirement alongside Human Resource Management and Global Human Resource Management. This gives students exposure to research methods and social analysis.
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Fort Hays State University are largely positive, driven by strong value, flexible online access, and supportive faculty who often respond quickly, help with scheduling, and create a personal learning environment. Many reviewers say small classes, approachable professors, and practical, manageable coursework helped them balance school with work and feel prepared for careers. Affordability is a recurring advantage, with several calling it a strong return on investment. The main complaints center on inconsistent advising, slow or poor communication from student services and some instructors, outdated or weak online course delivery, and a few cases where coursework felt misaligned with career goals.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 2,465 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 48%
- Retention Rate: 77%
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- Between the lack of a business prerequisite, the certificate-to-master's pathway, and the focus on both HR professionals and managers with HR responsibilities, this HR management master's program seems designed to attract people entering HR from a wide range of professional backgrounds.
- Wichita State allows the online MHRM to be earned by first completing two graduate certificates 鈥� one focused on Human Resource Management Skills and another on Human Resource Management Decision Making.
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Wichita State University are largely favorable, with students frequently praising approachable professors, small classes, and a strong sense of community that makes campus feel welcoming despite its commuter reputation. Many highlight practical preparation through internships, cooperative education, field placements, networking, and employer recognition, saying the experience often feels career-focused rather than purely academic. Affordability, diversity, campus involvement, and ongoing facility upgrades also stand out. Criticisms center on inconsistent advising, limited scheduling flexibility, heavy workloads, weak funding and assistantship support, uneven teaching quality in some departments, outdated technology platforms, parking concerns, and concerns about some neighborhoods near campus.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 1,168 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 51%
- Retention Rate: 69%
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- This master's in HR program concentrates on a relatively focused set of competencies that blend analytics, workforce strategy, talent management, and compliance.
- UCU's curriculum focuses on the regulatory environment that shapes everyday HR decisions. According to the program materials, students examine major workplace regulations including the Fair Labor Standards Act, Family and Medical Leave Act, Americans with Disabilities Act, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission requirements, Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations, and Affordable Care Act considerations.
Student Review Summary: Reviews describe a strongly positive experience centered on Union Commonwealth University’s small, welcoming campus and highly personalized support. Many reviewers praise the low faculty-to-student ratio, saying instructors are accessible, encouraging, and invested in individual progress through mentoring, research, and writing-intensive coursework. Several note that the environment works especially well for nontraditional and working learners because schedules, staff support, and financial aid help balance education with jobs and family responsibilities. The main drawbacks are inconsistency across professors and administrative offices, limited responsiveness from senior leadership staff, and tuition that some feel is somewhat high, though still worthwhile overall.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 138 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 32%
- Retention Rate: 64%
Student Review Summary: Reviews describe Athens State University as convenient, affordable, and personally supportive, especially for people balancing work and school. Several reviewers praise professors who build real connections, advisors who give direct guidance, and coursework that provides strong hands-on preparation and broad real-world exposure. Flexible scheduling, manageable class sizes, and generous transfer-credit acceptance also stand out. Still, one detailed review reports major dissatisfaction with teaching quality, calling some classes lecture-heavy, assignment loads excessive, and policies rigid. That reviewer also cites weak campus life, limited dining, dated facilities, slow administrative support, overpriced bookstore items, and poor pandemic-era communication and enforcement.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 439 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: N/A
- Retention Rate: N/A
Student Review Summary: Reviews are predominantly favorable, with students most often praising affordability, included textbooks, flexible pacing, and strong fit for full-time workers, parents, military personnel, and career changers. Many say the coursework is writing-heavy, research-intensive, and more demanding than expected, with responsive advisors and instructors helping them stay on track. Transfer-credit acceptance and practical, career-relevant learning are recurring positives, and several reviewers report promotions, new jobs, or improved professional confidence. Negative reviews center on inconsistent professor quality, generic or sparse feedback, slow refunds or financial aid issues, technical and registration problems, and longstanding concerns about accreditation, transferability, and limited recognition in some fields or graduate pathways.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.3 Student Reviews for Master's in Human Resources Degrees
Columbia Southern University (CSU) is now regionally accredited. I completed my bachelor鈥檚 degree and have returned for my master鈥檚 degree. I had a commendable learning experience ranging from institutional and instructional support, necessitating my... Read More
First and foremost, CSU is nationally and not regionally accredited. However, there are many schools that will take a direct transfer of credits including the University of Maryland University College, Grand Canyon University and Waldorf College. One... Read More
As a person that attended a regionally accredited, nationally known brick and mortar school for my bachelors degree, I feel qualified now after completing my MBA at CSU to voice my opinion on the comparison of online schools vs classrooms as well as national... Read More
- Graduate Online: 5,550 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 33%
- Retention Rate: 71%
Student Review Summary: Reviews of American Public University System are broadly positive, driven by strong ratings and frequent recommendations, but they reveal a clear split between academic delivery and administrative support. Students repeatedly praise the flexible online format, eight-week courses, affordability, included textbooks, and transfer-credit acceptance, especially for working adults, parents, and military-affiliated learners who need extensions and schedule control. Many say instructors are knowledgeable, responsive, and demanding, with heavy writing and research that build discipline. The most persistent complaints center on financial aid errors, delayed refunds, inconsistent advising, outdated or recycled materials in some classes, uneven instructor quality, and limited live interaction or career credibility in certain fields.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.4 Student Reviews for Master's in Human Resources Degrees
Stay away from APU. These people play games with your financial aid package and take their time to refund money due to you at the last minute when they feel like it. The education is good but you can get it elsewhere with less of a headache. Stay away.... Read More
I completed my Master's degree at APUS and it was very challenging. I enjoyed the instructors and had no problem with financial aid. I would recommend this college to any one who has an extremely busy lifestyle but wants to complete a degree. Since everything... Read More
I love being able to complete everything online! It makes it very easy to balance work and school.
- Graduate Online: 9,095 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 57%
- Retention Rate: 97%
Student Review Summary: Reviews of the University of Arkansas are largely favorable, driven by strong professor support, a beautiful campus, and abundant ways to get involved through clubs, internships, study abroad, and professional networking. Many reviewers valued affordable tuition, scholarships, and flexible online or hybrid formats that fit work and family schedules. Several said the school prepared them well for careers through practical coursework, hands-on learning, and industry connections. Recurring complaints center on parking, inconsistent advising, uneven instructor quality across departments, limited course availability in some areas, and occasional concerns about administrative responsiveness, diversity, and post-graduation support.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 1,611 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 71%
- Retention Rate: 86%
Student Review Summary: Reviews of SUNY Empire State University are largely positive, driven by strong ratings and frequent recommendations, though concerns are recurring. Many reviewers value the flexible online format, especially while working full time, raising families, or changing careers. Personalized mentoring, responsive professors, and supportive offices are praised when they work well, with several reviewers highlighting meaningful outreach and practical guidance. Many also describe the coursework as rigorous, writing-intensive, and professionally useful. The main complaints center on inconsistent mentor quality, slow grading, weak instructor communication, self-directed learning that can feel like teaching yourself, technology issues, and administrative or disability-support problems.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 2,070 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 41%
- Retention Rate: 66%
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Concordia University - St. Paul are broadly positive, driven by strong ratings for online and hybrid formats, attentive faculty, and support teams that regularly check in and help with questions. Many reviewers value practical coursework, manageable workloads, small classes, and networking through diverse cohorts that fit full-time work schedules. Several also praise affordability relative to alternatives, though opinions on cost are inconsistent. Negative reviews are severe and focus on canceled classes, weak academic rigor, plagiarism concerns, poor administration, financial aid problems, misleading flexibility, and a sense that some programs prioritize revenue over learning. Campus facilities, dorms, food, and athlete favoritism also drew criticism.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.1 Student Review for Master's in Human Resources Degrees
Concordia St. Paul has been very helpful in my journey to gain my master's degree. The teachers and support professionals have been very helpful with any questions or concerns. The institution has a great culture and really does care about your success... Read More
- Graduate Online: 1,854 enrolled
- Median Earnings: $81,217
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 46%
- Retention Rate: 67%
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Troy University are broadly positive, driven by strong ratings and frequent praise for flexible online, evening, and hybrid formats that help working adults, military families, and parents stay enrolled. Many reviewers highlight caring, accessible instructors, practical coursework, and staff members who went out of their way during personal or academic challenges. Affordability, scholarships, and useful financial aid support also stand out. Negative feedback is concentrated around inconsistent advising, administrative errors, delayed paperwork, weak professor communication in some online courses, and occasional self-taught experiences. A few reviewers also mention parking, outdated content, and uneven quality across departments and campuses.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.5 Student Reviews for Master's in Human Resources Degrees
Troy University is a wonderful school with faculty and staff members who go above and beyond to ensure student's needs are meet. The faculty and staff are always available to answer any student questions and they reply quickly . I also like all of the... Read More
I obtained my MSHRM in 2011. While there were a few professors that I would not recommend, overall, I was pleased with the quality of the faculty and staff at the Atlanta location. All of my classes were in-person and that worked very well for me and... Read More
Program is online, to which is convenient for those employed. Not to mention the university is accredited and respected by employers. Instructors are very interactive with students, readily available and willing to answer any concerns.
- Graduate Online: 2,684 enrolled
- Median Earnings: $64,650
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 50%
- Retention Rate: 71%
Student Review Summary: Reviews of the University of Alabama are overwhelmingly favorable, driven by strong ratings and near-universal recommendations. Students consistently praise accessible, knowledgeable professors, practical coursework, and career preparation through internships, research, career fairs, networking, and employer credibility after graduation. Many also highlight flexible online formats, manageable scheduling, scholarships, and a vibrant campus culture with deep school spirit, clubs, and athletics. Less obvious concerns center on uneven advising, inconsistent teaching quality across departments, rising costs, expensive fees, limited diversity, and the feeling of getting lost in a very large student body. A few online experiences were described as especially disorganized and unsupported.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 2,889 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 73%
- Retention Rate: 89%
Student Review Summary: Reviews describe Wayne State College as strongest when it delivers personal attention, affordability, and practical learning in smaller settings. Many students praise approachable professors, quick adviser support, hands-on instruction, and coursework that connects directly to real-life or professional use. Several also highlight scholarships, manageable debt, diversity, clubs, and a peaceful environment that can help you focus. The main criticisms center on uneven value in some online experiences, limited financial aid, and concerns that certain offerings feel misaligned with expectations or are scheduled inconveniently. A few reviews are sharply negative, citing weak relevance, high cost, and dissatisfaction with institutional priorities.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 471 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 52%
- Retention Rate: 72%
Stories Behind the Cheapest Online HR Master's Degrees: An Editorial Analysis
Building an HR Portfolio Through Client Engagements
Western Carolina University
Through required consulting courses, online HR master's students work directly with nonprofit and small-business clients, helping address real HR challenges and delivering recommendations designed for implementation. The university reports that students have completed 569 projects for 384 organizations, giving this program a level of documented experiential learning that few online HR master's programs can match.
Labor Relations Instead of Corporate HR
SUNY Empire State University
SUNY Empire is arguably the most unusual master's program on the list because it is specifically a Master of Arts in Work and Labor Policy that focuses on labor history, collective bargaining, workforce development, and labor law. The curriculum is designed for union leaders, labor advocates, educators, and public-sector professionals as much as HR practitioners. For students interested in workforce policy or labor relations, it offers a perspective rarely found among online HR master's programs.
The Quantitative Side of People Management
University of Alabama
UA focuses on Human Resources Analytics rather than general HR administration. Students combine traditional HR coursework with analytics, workflow analysis, recruitment metrics, and data-driven decision-making. The program's AACSB accreditation adds another layer of distinction, since fewer than 5% of business schools worldwide hold that designation. Students interested in people analytics, workforce planning, and HR technology may find a stronger fit here than in more compliance-focused programs.
Expert Advice: What Makes a Human Resources Master's Degree Worth the Investment?
How has the role of HR at the master's level evolved?
"Far removed from simply processing payroll, which is quite easy with AI-driven SaaS, master's-level HR graduates are restructuring how organizations function. This is done by looking at business centers and finding out how to best use human and technological resources in order to generate profit and serve stakeholders.
The discipline is interdisciplinary and intersects psychology, business, and even social work."
"Master's-level HR graduates are restructuring how organizations function."
After graduating with an online master's in human resources, what can students do to stand out when starting a career?
"Employers are looking for not only credentials but also degrees in human resources, showing that you are not changing lanes after having been unsuccessful in a different field.
Furthermore, do an internship during your undergraduate, separating you from the multitudes who took the tests without truly having the necessary practical experience under your belt.
While there are many credentials, and some have multiple, like myself, decide if you want to be a generalist (or specialist) or business partner. If you have your eyes on the latter, choose SHRM."
FAQs About Affordable Online HR Master's Degrees
What Should You Look for in an Affordable Online Master's in Human Resources Program?
When you're choosing a master's in human resources program, you'll want to take several factors into consideration. Program curriculum, faculty, financial aid availability, student services, and the flexibility of the program are all important, and some may be more significant to you than others.
One factor that's critical, however, is institutional accreditation. Accreditation ensures you're getting a quality education. You may also want to look for HR master's programs that follow the learning outcomes prescribed by the (SHRM) so that you can meet industry expectations on the job.
What Will You Learn in an Online Master's in Human Resources Program?
A master's in HR is designed to give you an advanced understanding of human resource practices and strategies. Because you'll be well equipped to contribute strategically to your organization's success, you'll be qualified for high-level managerial roles, which can boost your earning potential.
Online master's in human resources (HR) programs are designed to provide students with the critical knowledge and skills necessary to manage, develop, and lead employees within an organization effectively. Once you've earned your degree, you'll be qualified to take on the leadership of an entire organization or to specialize in a high-level HR function, such as training and development.
As part of the program, you'll engage in practical projects that may include creating comprehensive HR strategic plans, analyzing case studies on workplace issues, or proposing solutions to existing HR challenges. Assignments may involve conducting surveys, developing training modules, or drafting HR policy documents.
Through these learning activities, you'll develop a range of technical skills, such as compensation and benefits analysis, HR analytics, employment law compliance, and recruitment strategies. You'll also hone vital soft skills like conflict resolution, negotiation, organizational development, and leadership.
Online master's in human resources programs require the completion of 30-39 credit hours. If you're studying full time, you may be able to finish in about two years, but you may need an additional year if you're a part-time student. Many programs include a paid or unpaid internship and end with a capstone research project or final comprehensive exam.
What Are the Admission Requirements for HR Master's Degrees Online?
Admission requirements for a human resources master's program vary somewhat by school. However, most graduate schools will require you to have a bachelor's degree in human resources, management, or business administration. Also, a few schools only accept applicants who have some work experience in the HR field.
Along with your undergraduate transcripts, which should document that you maintained a GPA of at least 2.8, you may be asked to submit a statement of purpose, one or more letters of recommendation, and a resume. Some schools also ask for GRE scores.
What Courses Are Common in an Online Master's in Human Resources Program?
Each course in an online human resources degree program explores some aspect of HR in depth, giving you numerous opportunities to apply what you're learning to real-world situations. Some of the coursework often found in a master's in human resources program include:
- Strategic Human Resources Management: In this course, students learn how to align HR practices with organizational goals. Assignments focus on strategic planning and decision-making processes in HR functions.
- Employment Law and Compliance: This course informs students about federal and state employment laws. This knowledge will help them ensure organizational adherence to HR regulations and mitigate potential legal risks.
- Organizational Behavior and Development: Students delve into the psychology of the workplace, studying factors that influence individual and group behavior. They also learn effective strategies for enhancing performance and satisfaction.
- Talent Acquisition and Recruitment: In this course, students learn how to source, attract, and hire the best candidates for organizations. Role-playing activities also help students learn to conduct interviews.
- Compensation and Benefits Management: This course covers the design, implementation, and evaluation of compensation and benefits programs, ensuring they are competitive and equitable.
- HR Analytics and Decision Making: Leveraging data-driven insights, students understand how to make strategic HR decisions, predict trends, and measure the return on investment of HR initiatives.
How Can You Save Money on an Online Master's in Human Resources?
If you're like most online students, you're probably wondering how you can pay for an online human resources master's degree. As daunting as it may seem, you actually have several funding sources available to you. These include income, savings, gifts, and various forms of financial aid.
It can be challenging to figure out how much money you'll need before enrolling, but information from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) can help. Data for the 2022-23 school year show that the for graduate programs was $28,017 at private institutions but only $12,596 at public universities. If you multiply these amounts by the number of years you expect to be enrolled, you can determine the approximate cost.
Clearly, choosing a public school over a private university may save you thousands of dollars in tuition, but there are other ways to save money on your degree, too. For example, you could select an online program like one of the most affordable human resources degrees listed above. All of these schools are institutionally accredited, so you're assured of a high-quality education at a lower price.
What Financial Aid Options Are Available for Online Human Resources Master's Students?
As an online master's student, you may also qualify for financial aid. To determine your eligibility, you'll need to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Later, you'll be informed if you qualify for aid, and if you do, you'll receive a financial aid offer from your school.
Depending on your circumstances, your financial aid package may include grants, fellowships, or scholarships from the federal and state government and from your school. These types of aid don't have to be repaid.
However, your financial aid offer may also contain a federal student loan or private student loan. These do have to be repaid with interest, so keep in mind that federal loans often have lower interest rates and more flexible repayment terms.
Fellowships and grants may also be available from private organizations. These scholarships may be awarded based on financial need, academic performance, or career goals. You'll need to research these opportunities and apply for them separately because they are not covered by the FAFSA form.
If you haven't yet earned an undergraduate degree, consider enrolling in one of the most affordable online bachelor's programs in human resources.
What Jobs Can You Pursue With an Online Master's in Human Resources?
An online human resources master's degree paves the way for numerous HR careers in both the private and public sectors. With an advanced understanding of HR principles and practices, you may be a more attractive job candidate for strategic roles within human resources departments than other applicants who have only a bachelor's degree.
You can also choose to become a generalist or a specialist. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a human resources manager oversees an entire HR department, handling staffing issues, mediating disputes, and ensuring regulatory compliance. These generalists earn a median annual salary of .
Those who work in "professional, scientific, and technical services" earn even more, closer to $163,970. Whereas those who work in "healthcare and social assistance" earn a little less, around $120,010.
Additional education, like a doctoral degree in HR or a related field, can further elevate your career, opening avenues for academic roles, higher managerial positions, or specialized consultancy roles. An advanced degree signifies expertise, which could translate into higher salaries.
Is an Affordable Online Master's Degree in Human Resources Worth It?
Determining whether a master鈥檚 degree in HR is worth the cost depends on several factors, including career goals, salary potential, and the affordability of the program. A master鈥檚 degree can open doors to higher-level positions in HR, such as HR manager, director, or VP, and often leads to higher salaries. According to the BLS, HR managers with a master鈥檚 degree can earn significantly more than those with only a bachelor鈥檚. Additionally, master鈥檚 programs provide in-depth knowledge in areas like labor relations, organizational development, and strategic HR management, along with networking opportunities with peers, faculty, and industry professionals.
A master鈥檚 in HR can be a valuable investment if it aligns with your career goals and you choose an affordable program. The listed programs above offer competitive tuition rates, making them excellent options to consider for balancing cost and benefit. When evaluating the worth of a master鈥檚 in HR, you should also consider the potential return on investment (ROI), which involves weighing the potential increase in salary and career opportunities against the cost of the program. Employer sponsorship can also significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs, as some employers offer tuition reimbursement or sponsorship programs. Additionally, online programs offer flexibility and convenience, allowing you to work while you study, which can help manage costs.
Student Reviews of Online Human Resources Programs
I enrolled in a graduate program at Southern New Hampshire University in 2023. The admissions process was very easy, but I have both the most impressed with my academic advisor. My academic advisor reaches out multiple times during each 10-week class. She also registers me for my next class so I do not have to worry about getting a seat. I became pregnant in 2024 and my advisor guided me through the process of taking some time off from school. She helped me reenroll when I was ready. The course material... Read More
Review Date: 4/1/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
UAGC is a great college for those who want to balance work and school. It lacks substantial instruction as it is fully online. However, all of the courses are structured the same so you know what to expect each week. Some professors do not even read your work and score highly, while others are very hard graders.
Review Date: 5/6/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Stay away from APU. These people play games with your financial aid package and take their time to refund money due to you at the last minute when they feel like it. The education is good but you can get it elsewhere with less of a headache. Stay away. They will ruin your financial aid and refunds. These people aren't lying about their bad experiences with this school. If you have the Montgomery GI Bill, use it elsewhere.
Review Date: 4/19/2024
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
The school, the process, and the faculty are great, and I love that I have been able to earn all my degrees here and will most likely return for my doctoral degree. I can tell you that back in 2018, I called three schools. Purdue Global made a difference by wanting me to attend and being supportive during that uneducated decision about what to expect coming to college after being out of high school for over 30 years. If you are considering a school, call Purdue; it would be worth the effort! 猸愶笍猸愶笍猸愶笍猸愶笍猸愶笍... Read More
Review Date: 9/7/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
My experience at CSU-Global has been nothing short of AMAZING!! I graduated with my Bachelor's in Human Resources Management some years back and now enrolled again with them for my Master's degree in Human Resources Management. I have been in the HR field for 15 years and everything that was and has been taught to me coincides with the real life workforce, so you can definitely take the knowledge taught in each course and apply it in the real business world. The professors are so helpful and always... Read More
Review Date: 10/17/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Earned both my my undergrad Jan 2021 and wrapping up my graduate degree in October of 2022 at Waldorf. It鈥檚 been a challenge working full time within a Fortune 500 at a director level but it鈥檚 definitely been worth it. Classes are tough 鈥�. professors are great and the knowledge earned is invaluable. I highly recommend Waldorf. In January I begin a PhD at Liberty University. I don鈥檛 know who posted that one 猸愶笍, but that person is way off base. My experiences have been phenomenal!
Review Date: 4/10/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I must say that the professors here are amazing! On the other hand I will say that many of the support team members (Student coaches) have no idea what they are doing. In my 15 months I was assigned to approximately 5-6 student coaches. With that said, the only time that I ever heard from a student coach was when it was time to sign up for more classes. Outside of registering for more courses, it was like pulling teeth to get a coach on the line. They will not return calls, but will send random e-mails... Read More
Review Date: 1/27/2022
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I completed my BA in Communication with SNHU in 2019 and was accepted into Johns Hopkins University for a Masters in Communication. Johns Hopkins! After two terms I began to realize that I missed the connection I felt with SNHU. My advisor always called to check-in, the financial aid department was phenomenal, admin was easy to get ahold of, the bookstore responded to emails quickly, I LOVED all my professors, I LOVED the online platform (Brightspace), and I thoroughly had a pleasant experience.... Read More
Review Date: 7/9/2020
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I enjoyed my time completing my degree with South. My experience with faculty overall was excellent. I feel most instructors/professors enjoyed facilitating courses and provided support needed to be successful. Working full time while enrolled in a graduate program was tough and some instructors made that easier than other but overall no complaints. I would recommend!
Review Date: 7/20/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I heard about AIU from my friend who was currently enrolled in the college. Initially, I was hesitant to join an online program. But somehow my friend convinced me to join the same after showing the course curriculum, assignment pattern, and the course support. I was amazed to notice how simple it was to enroll and achieve your dream qualifications without any pressure on the academic front. I am soon to get an MBA in Human resource Management. I can't wait for my graduation day!!
Review Date: 8/23/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I love my coursework and I love the formatting of my program. Honestly, love how Trident runs their program and the professors and team at Trident are exceptional with customer service and assisting me. I even get video feedback on all my assignments that I turn in!
Review Date: 8/7/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I went to DeVry for bachelors and am now attending Keller for my Masters and I couldn鈥檛 be happier! As soon as I finished school I was able to get a management position at Target which you needed a Bachelors degree to join! Since then, I have worked for Amazon and again couldn鈥檛 do it without DeVry! Anyone who says this school isn鈥檛 good is crazy! These classes are super hard and I鈥檓 learning a lot about the HR field! Thank you DeVry and Keller!
Review Date: 6/17/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The University promotes the MBA as a research-driven, writing-based intensive academic program, but the weekly writing prompts are nothing more than a copy-and-paste question from the end of the reading chapter for the week. These questions are randomly chosen and therefore self-limited in terms of gauging student learning and application. Most of the time, these prompts require students to apply some of the equations that are part of the reading, to a particular case. The problem? Once you've done... Read More
Review Date: 2/25/2019
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
IWU is a great school that offers the flexibility of earning a degree while you work full time. Do not mistake flexibility with easy. The workload was difficult at times and stretched me personally, academically, and spiritually. It is an online program and it takes grit to do this program. As with any school there are a few faculty who can be difficult but for the most part the faculty bare accommodating and gracious. Loved my time at IWU!
Review Date: 3/31/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
After having attended 2 online colleges in hopes to finish my masters, I came across Capella University. My previous experiences were not great so I was hoping for a better experience. I definitely got what I hoped for! Everybody I've encountered has been truly wonderful. They're knowledgeable and quick to help. They walked me through the entire process and explain everything when I have questions. I'm halfway through my program in Human Resource Management and I couldn't be happier.
Review Date: 10/30/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The program was built to revolve around the working. I really liked how the professors seemed to be understanding and always try and work with students when life happened. I learned a lot from the project based courses that gave me the skills I needed to get a job quickly and move up with a series of promotions. Would recommend this program if you want career advancement at a reasonable price .
Review Date: 11/26/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
After getting a bachelors degree and law degree in person, I was looking for a prestigious online program that would allow me to work and attend classes. USC has been phenomenal in every dimension. The professors are HR leaders that have worked for very large corporations. My classmates have also been friendly, helpful, and easy to work with. While the degree is expensive, getting a great education from a top-tier school is worth the costs. Fight On!!!
Review Date: 4/17/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Webster University has truly set itself apart from other online learning centers. I am currently pursuing my dual graduate degree in Leadership and Management/Human Resource Management. Though I am not attending a brick and mortar courses, the advisors at Webster University has treated me no different. The ease of admission, guidance on a degree plan tailored towards my career goals and acceptance into the school was a seamless process. As with any life changing decisions, the Webster University... Read More
Review Date: 12/19/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I completed my MHRM in two years and I enjoyed the coursework. It is heavy research and you have to be disciplined to complete per the schedule. Many reviews stated instructors and advisors weren鈥檛 reachable, I did not find this the case. I always received a response within 24-48 hours. I did have a couple different advisors, however, each one that left emailed stating they were leaving due to moving to another area of the school and introduced me to the replacement. I honestly feel the communication... Read More
Review Date: 11/28/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I really enjoy the HRM program at Stony Brook. Most of the professors I have encountered are highly interested in your success. The classes are intense, as the classes are 10 weeks long. The program is more self-driven than professor driven, with a lot of reading and responding. So far (after 4/10 classes) I find I am learning more fundamentals of HR rather than real-life work. I'm hoping to pursue an internship once the program is complete.
Review Date: 3/8/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No