Master of Science in Human Resources
Ranked No. 7 in the nation by Fortune Online, the Master of Science (MS) in Human Resources degree program at the University of Cincinnati’s Lindner College of Business prepares students at any professional level to advance in careers in HR through hands-on projects and flexible course schedules. Specialize your degree further by adding a graduate certificate in fields such as information systems, data analytics or AI in business.
Offering excellent placement and research records and guided by faculty experts across business specialties, the master’s degree in human resources program allows you to spearhead your future by taking on projects with businesses across Cincinnati.
In the master’s in HR program, you’ll lead initiatives ranging from talent acquisition to culture shaping, leadership training, compensation analysis and consulting, positioning you to work for prestigious organizations after graduation.
What format is the MS in Human Resources program offered?
The MS in Human Resources program is offered only in an in-person format. Students will need to meet on campus for their core classes for the Human Resources program. Electives and business foundations courses may be offered in a hybrid or online format.
When do in-person courses in the MS in Human Resources program usually begin?
Each course in the Human Resources program starts at no earlier than 6 p.m. during the week. There may be weekend offerings available as well, but this will vary from semester to semester.
Are international students able to be considered for the MS in Human Resources program?
Yes, international applicants are able to be considered for the MS in Human Resources program. However, students seeking a visa are not eligible for part-time status and must begin in either the fall or spring term each year.
What terms are open to admitting new students?
New students are admitted in any term, however, full-time course work is only available in the fall and spring terms. International students seeking a visa must start in either the fall or spring terms.
What can I do with a master’s in human resources?
Graduate-level human resources education enhances management skills, such as organizational development, innovation and crafting a high-performance HR team. This opens pathways to roles like HR manager, training and development positions, and HR director. Earning a master's degree in this field offers a competitive advantage for promotions and career advancement through specialized expertise.
Program Highlights
- Duration: 1-1.5 Years
- Minimum Credits: 30-38
- Part- or full-time
- Flexible evening classes
- Core courses held in person
- Some electives and business foundation courses available online
MS in HR Curriculum and Requirements
A comprehensive curriculum equips HR professionals to tackle increasingly complex challenges in managing human resources functions such as compensation, benefits, innovation and business development. This practical approach includes a research capstone, foundational business courses, core courses and optional electives.
The master’s program requirements ensure that whether you are new to the HR field or have years of experience, you gain valuable insights through faculty guidance and the latest research. It also hones strategic and critical thinking skills for making decisions with significant implications in this critical aspect of running a successful business.
Earn a Graduate Certificate
Add a Lindner graduate certificate in a complementary field to enhance your profile for future job applications. Diversify your expertise in data analytics, AI in business, entrepreneurship, and other high-demand business skill areas to advance your innovation and career potential.
Placements and Career Outcomes
In the graduate human resources degree program, you receive personalized career support connecting you to UC’s extensive network of business professionals in Cincinnati and the Midwest. Top employers who have hired recent graduates of the HR program include:
- Bon Secours Mercy Health
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital
- Fifth Third Bank
- General Electric
- Paycor
- PNC Financial Services
- UC Health
- University of Cincinnati
- Western and Southern Insurance
Why Earn a Master’s in HR at Lindner?
Lindner’s range of specializations in business education and our excellent career connections across Ohio position our graduates to excel in their current roles, pivot to HR for the first time or bring new ideas to life.
In 2024, Poets & Quants named UC Lindner College of Business one of the top 100 business schools in North America by research impact. Our faculty, including in the Department of Management, produce novel research and offer hands-on collaboration opportunities for graduate students.
HR alum Yashkumar Patel's Capstone project helped Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center make a major compensation change.
More Graduate Programs
In addition to the full- or part-time master’s degree program, Lindner College of Business offers a specialized HR graduate certificate for short-term skill elevation. Explore our various degree and certificate programs to take the next step in your career.
Human Resources Advisory Board
An advisory board guides the MS in Human Resources program at Lindner. This board allows professionals in the field to ensure program standards and connect with students for networking opportunities. Members currently work or previously worked at high-profile organizations such as Macy’s, Procter & Gamble, and First Financial Bank.
Advisory Board Members
Jessica Bacher
Chief People Officer
ProLink Staffing
Dan Best
Chief Human Resource Officer
Total Quality Logistics
Heather Cox
Chief Human Resource Officer
University of Cincinnati
Maureen Donnellan
VP of Talent and Engagement
Talbert House
Joe Filigno
VP of HR Strategy and Associate Experience
Bon Secours Mercy Health
Beth Giglio
Chief Human Resource Officer
Gorilla Glue
Sheri Harper
Chief Human Resource Officer
Tire Discounters
Stacy Lynch
SVP, Human Resources
Fifth Third Bank
Michelle Keating
HR Consulting Lead (retired)
Accenture
Bill Neese
SVP of Talent Acquisition
Paycor
David Romp
HR Consultant and Faculty Advisory Board Member
University of Cincinnati
Heather Swensgard
AVP-Talent Development
Western & Southern
Robin Throckmorton
President and CEO (retired)
strategichrinc
Mark Wilson
Chief Human Resources Officer
United Dairy Farmers
Margie Zyble
Chief Human Resources Officer
UC Health
Apply to the MS in Human Resources at the University of Cincinnati
Transform your career as a strategic HR leader with UC’s Master of Science in Human Resources degree program. Apply today to unlock your full potential in shaping the future of work.
Contact Us
Michael Wagner, PhD
Assistant Professor-Educator, MS in Human Resources Program Director