Rankings / Masters

Best Master's in Human Resources

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$80,031

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

81%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$22,463

Avg. Net Price

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Choosing the right master's program in human resources is a significant decision for many professionals looking to advance their careers. With various options available, prospective students should consider not just the curriculum but also the outcomes that matter most after graduation. For instance, the average earnings for graduates from these programs are around $80,956, highlighting the potential financial benefits of a well-chosen school.

What sets the strongest programs apart in this ranking are their graduate earnings, completion rates, student debt levels, and mobility outcomes. Schools that excel in these areas demonstrate a commitment to not only educating their students but also ensuring they can thrive after graduation. The list below reflects schools that balance strong academic programs with favorable outcomes for their graduates.

Take CUNY Bernard M Baruch College and Babson College, for example. Baruch has impressive earnings of $75,971, but Babson outpaces it significantly at $123,938. However, Babson's net price is considerably higher at $40,514 compared to Baruch's $3,033. This contrast illustrates the trade-offs students must navigate when selecting a program that aligns with their financial and career goals.

Key Findings

Graduates from Babson College earn an average of $123,938, the highest on this list.

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College has the lowest net price at just $3,033, making it an affordable option.

The average graduation rate among these top programs is 82%, indicating strong student support.

Washington and Lee University boasts a remarkable 94% graduation rate, highlighting its effectiveness in student retention.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $80,031

Avg. graduation rate 81%

Avg. net price $22,463

Avg. median debt $18,985

How We Ranked

Master's programs ranked by graduate earnings, mobility, and program concentration in Business & Marketing

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

New York, NY

Graduation72%

Earnings$75,971

Net Price$3,033

View full profile →

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA

Graduation94%

Earnings$94,810

Net Price$23,781

View full profile →

Babson College

Wellesley, MA

Graduation93%

Earnings$123,938

Net Price$40,514

View full profile →

Featured Programs From Accredited Schools

Accredited schools accepting applicants in this field.

Full Rankings

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

New York, NY · 16,154 students · Public

The Human Resources master's program at CUNY Bernard M. Baruch College is well-suited for individuals passionate about cultivating workplace culture and enhancing employee experiences. Students engage in comprehensive studies that prepare them to tackle real-world HR challenges, shaping them into strategic leaders ready to influence organizational success in a diverse and dynamic landscape.

48% accepted 72% graduate $75,971 earnings

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · 1,881 students · Private nonprofit

At Washington and Lee University, the Human Resources master's program attracts students looking to deepen their understanding of workforce management and organizational behavior. This program emphasizes both theoretical frameworks and practical applications, equipping students with the skills needed to drive employee engagement and performance in various workplace settings.

14% accepted 94% graduate $94,810 earnings

Washington's full profile

Babson College

Wellesley, MA · 2,728 students · Private nonprofit

Babson College’s Human Resources master's program is ideal for those drawn to the intersection of business and people management. Students delve into innovative strategies for workforce engagement, preparing them to lead HR initiatives that align with broader organizational goals and drive success in fast-paced environments.

17% accepted 93% graduate $123,938 earnings

Babson's full profile

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY · 10,543 students · Public

Students pursuing a Human Resources master's at CUNY Brooklyn College can expect a program designed for those seeking to advance their careers in people management and organizational development. With a focus on practical skills, this program prepares graduates to tackle real-world HR challenges in diverse work environments, making it ideal for individuals who are committed to fostering inclusive workplaces and driving employee engagement.

58% accepted 55% graduate $60,752 earnings

Fashion Institute of Technology

New York, NY · 7,637 students · Public

At the Fashion Institute of Technology, the Human Resources master's program attracts those passionate about the intersection of creativity and management. This program is ideal for students who want to understand how to cultivate talent and support diverse teams in dynamic industries like fashion and design. Here, the focus is on real-world applications, helping students navigate the unique HR challenges within creative fields.

60% accepted 82% graduate $62,696 earnings

Fashion's full profile

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · 15,995 students · Private nonprofit

Cornell University's Human Resources master's program is designed for those who are passionate about developing talent and fostering a positive workplace culture. Students in this program work towards understanding the complexities of human behavior in organizations, preparing for roles that shape company policies and enhance employee satisfaction. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, the program attracts individuals eager to make an impact in the HR field, equipping them with the tools needed to navigate the evolving workforce landscape.

9% accepted 95% graduate $104,043 earnings

Cornell's full profile

Emory University

Atlanta, GA · 7,298 students · Private nonprofit

Emory University’s Human Resources master’s program caters to individuals seeking to lead in organizational settings, focusing on strategic management of human capital. This program is particularly suitable for those interested in the intersection of business and human behavior, preparing students to tackle real-world HR challenges. Emory emphasizes ethical leadership and social responsibility, making it a great fit for those who want to influence workplace dynamics positively.

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

University of Georgia

Athens, GA · 32,137 students · Public

The Human Resources master’s program at the University of Georgia is ideal for students who aspire to enhance employee engagement and drive organizational success. This program prepares students to understand and implement effective HR strategies, catering to those who are eager to influence workforce development in various sectors. With a focus on practical skills and real-world applications, UGA cultivates leaders ready to face the challenges of modern human resource management.

38% accepted 89% graduate $68,726 earnings

University's full profile

University of Notre Dame

Notre Dame, IN · 8,818 students · Private nonprofit

The Human Resources master's program at the University of Notre Dame is designed for students eager to lead in the field of talent management and organizational development. Those who enroll can expect to engage deeply with concepts of employee relations, ethics, and strategic HR practices, preparing them for impactful roles in various sectors.

11% accepted 96% graduate $99,980 earnings

University's full profile

#10

Bentley University

Waltham, MA · 4,474 students · Private nonprofit

Bentley University’s Human Resources master’s program is tailored for individuals aiming to excel in the dynamic field of HR. Students will delve into essential topics such as workforce management, organizational behavior, and strategic HR planning, all within a collaborative environment that encourages real-world application. This is an ideal fit for those eager to influence workplace culture and enhance employee engagement across various industries.

45% accepted 88% graduate $120,959 earnings

Bentley's full profile

#11

University of Richmond

University of Richmond, VA · 2,980 students · Private nonprofit

The Human Resources master's program at the University of Richmond attracts students who are eager to develop innovative strategies for workforce management and organizational improvement. This program emphasizes experiential learning, encouraging students to apply HR principles in real-world settings. It’s ideal for those who want to make a meaningful impact in the workplace and advance their careers in HR leadership roles.

22% accepted 86% graduate $76,178 earnings

University's full profile

#12

San Jose State University

San Jose, CA · 27,601 students · Public

San Jose State University’s Human Resources master’s program caters to individuals looking to make a difference in workforce management and employee advocacy. It’s a perfect fit for those who want to understand the intersection of human behavior and organizational effectiveness, preparing them for roles that require strong interpersonal and analytical skills. Students immerse themselves in a curriculum that emphasizes practical knowledge and application in real-world HR scenarios.

85% accepted 67% graduate $78,988 earnings

Saint Johns University

Collegeville, MN · 1,395 students · Private nonprofit

91% accepted 76% graduate $76,786 earnings

Boston College

Chestnut Hill, MA · 10,085 students · Private nonprofit

At Boston College, the Human Resources master's program caters to individuals eager to dive into the complexities of workforce management and organizational behavior. This program emphasizes strategic thinking and ethical leadership, making it a suitable choice for those who aspire to lead HR initiatives and influence company culture in meaningful ways, all within a supportive academic community.

16% accepted 91% graduate $103,937 earnings

Boston's full profile

#15

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA · 20,443 students · Private nonprofit

At the University of Southern California, the Human Resources master's program attracts students eager to lead and innovate in the field of human resources. This program emphasizes the strategic role of HR in organizational success, making it a great fit for those looking to develop their leadership capabilities and drive change from within. Students engage with real-world challenges, preparing them for various roles that can shape workplace cultures and improve employee outcomes.

10% accepted 92% graduate $92,498 earnings

University's full profile

#16

Lehigh University

Bethlehem, PA · 5,898 students · Private nonprofit

At Lehigh University, the Human Resources master’s program cultivates professionals ready to tackle the complexities of employee relations and talent management. Students engage in coursework that emphasizes critical thinking and strategic decision-making, equipping them to lead diverse teams and drive organizational success. This program is particularly suited for those who aspire to create inclusive work environments and shape company policies that prioritize employee well-being.

26% accepted 89% graduate $105,584 earnings

Lehigh's full profile

#17

Trinity University

San Antonio, TX · 2,505 students · Private nonprofit

At Trinity University, the Human Resources master's program caters to individuals aspiring to become change agents in the workplace. This program emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of human behavior and strategic HR management, preparing students to address real-world challenges in diverse organizational settings. Ideal candidates are those who are passionate about nurturing talent and enhancing employee satisfaction within their companies.

26% accepted 83% graduate $71,668 earnings

Trinity's full profile

#18

Ramapo College of New Jersey

Mahwah, NJ · 4,898 students · Public

Ramapo College of New Jersey's Human Resources master's program is perfect for students who want to blend analytical skills with a passion for people. The curriculum emphasizes practical applications and ethical considerations, preparing graduates to tackle issues like employee retention and talent development. It's an ideal environment for those who want to create effective workplace strategies while contributing positively to organizational culture.

71% accepted 71% graduate $67,541 earnings

Ramapo's full profile

#19

Santa Clara University

Santa Clara, CA · 6,552 students · Private nonprofit

At Santa Clara University, the Human Resources master's program attracts individuals who aspire to lead in dynamic workplaces and contribute to strategic decision-making in organizations. The program emphasizes ethical leadership and practical skills, preparing students for roles that require both analytical thinking and interpersonal effectiveness in the fast-paced business environment of Silicon Valley.

48% accepted 88% graduate $109,183 earnings

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

The Human Resources master's program at the University of Florida is tailored for students who are looking to blend academic rigor with practical experience in human capital management. This program attracts those interested in understanding the nuances of employee relations, talent acquisition, and organizational dynamics, all while benefiting from a large, resource-rich public university setting.

24% accepted 91% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

#21

Florida International University

Miami, FL · 39,508 students · Public

Florida International University's Human Resources master's program is designed for those looking to make a significant impact in workplace culture and employee engagement. Students here will focus on practical HR skills while addressing the diverse needs of a global workforce. This program is well-suited for individuals who are eager to enhance their leadership capabilities in a rapidly changing job market.

55% accepted 74% graduate $60,249 earnings

Florida's full profile

#22

Brigham Young University-Idaho

Rexburg, ID · 44,397 students · Private nonprofit

The Human Resources master's program at Brigham Young University-Idaho caters to students who are motivated to balance organizational goals with employee needs. This program emphasizes ethical leadership and community engagement, making it a fitting choice for those looking to build a career centered on human development and organizational success. Students will engage in discussions and projects that prepare them for the realities of HR in various sectors.

96% accepted 55% graduate $53,406 earnings

Brigham's full profile

#23

Loyola University Maryland

Baltimore, MD · 3,869 students · Private nonprofit

75% accepted 80% graduate $82,652 earnings

Loyola's full profile

#24

Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL · 32,212 students · Public

The Human Resources master's program at Florida State University is designed for individuals who are passionate about cultivating workplace environments and enhancing employee engagement. Students often focus on organizational behavior and strategic HR management, equipping them with skills to navigate the complexities of modern workplaces. This program is ideal for those who want to make a meaningful impact in their organizations and communities through effective human capital management.

24% accepted 84% graduate $61,675 earnings

Florida's full profile

#25

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Atlanta, GA · 18,785 students · Public

The Human Resources master's program at Georgia Tech is designed for individuals who are looking to blend technology with people management. Students here will develop critical skills in data-driven decision-making and organizational behavior, preparing them for the evolving landscape of HR in the tech industry. This program caters to those who thrive in an innovative environment, emphasizing the importance of analytics in shaping workforce strategies.

14% accepted 93% graduate $102,772 earnings

Georgia's full profile

#26

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Blacksburg, VA · 30,923 students · Public

At Virginia Tech, the Human Resources master's program is perfect for individuals eager to lead in employee relations and talent management. Students here work toward developing strategic HR practices that align with organizational goals, benefiting from a strong emphasis on practical applications and research. The program is designed for those who thrive in a collaborative learning environment, supported by a network of fellow students and professionals.

55% accepted 86% graduate $81,698 earnings

Virginia's full profile

#27

Georgetown University

Washington, DC · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

Georgetown University's Human Resources master's program is tailored for those who aspire to lead in organizational development and workforce strategy. Students will engage with critical themes of ethics, culture, and leadership, preparing them to navigate complexities in various sectors. This program attracts individuals who are driven to influence positive workplace changes and foster inclusive environments.

13% accepted 95% graduate $103,494 earnings

Georgetown's full profile

#28

Northeastern University

Boston, MA · 17,326 students · Private nonprofit

Northeastern University's Human Resources master's program is designed for students eager to engage in experiential learning and real-world problem solving in HR contexts. Ideal for those who value a hands-on approach, this program integrates internships and co-op opportunities, preparing graduates to excel in fast-paced, dynamic workplaces where HR plays a critical role in shaping organizational culture.

5% accepted 90% graduate $92,538 earnings

Northeastern's full profile

#29

Fort Hays State University

Hays, KS · 9,733 students · Public

90% accepted 48% graduate $48,928 earnings

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

At the University of Pennsylvania, the Human Resources master's program prepares students for strategic roles in managing and optimizing workforce potential. This program is tailored for those who want to delve deep into the complexities of human capital and organizational behavior. Students engage with a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes the importance of research and data-driven decision-making, making it an excellent fit for future HR leaders who want to drive change in their organizations.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

#31

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC · 20,752 students · Public

For those drawn to a blend of theory and practical experience in human resources, the master’s program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is a great fit. This program is ideal for students who wish to craft policies that enhance workplace culture and promote employee well-being. The collaborative atmosphere encourages networking and learning from peers, which is essential in the HR field.

15% accepted 92% graduate $72,200 earnings

University's full profile

#32

Wake Forest University

Winston-Salem, NC · 5,485 students · Private nonprofit

Wake Forest University’s Human Resources master's program is designed for students who aspire to influence organizational culture and drive employee engagement. This program fosters critical thinking about HR strategies and equips students with the skills to navigate complex workplace challenges. Students benefit from a close-knit community, allowing for personalized attention and mentorship from faculty and peers alike.

22% accepted 90% graduate $78,158 earnings

San Diego State University

San Diego, CA · 35,377 students · Public

At San Diego State University, the Human Resources master's program is designed for those looking to become strategic leaders in the workforce. Students dive into topics such as organizational behavior and HR analytics, equipping them to influence company culture positively and lead effective HR practices. This program is a great fit for individuals eager to champion employee development and drive performance in diverse settings.

36% accepted 77% graduate $64,909 earnings

University of San Diego

San Diego, CA · 5,671 students · Private nonprofit

52% accepted 83% graduate $86,522 earnings

University's full profile

#35

Washington University in St Louis

St. Louis, MO · 7,857 students · Private nonprofit

Washington University in St. Louis offers a Human Resources master's program tailored for those who aspire to influence organizational dynamics and foster employee development. The program prepares students to tackle contemporary HR challenges and emphasizes the strategic importance of human resources in achieving business objectives. It's a perfect match for individuals who are committed to fostering a positive workplace culture and driving organizational success through effective HR practices.

12% accepted 94% graduate $86,182 earnings

Washington's full profile

#36

Texas Christian University

Fort Worth, TX · 11,026 students · Private nonprofit

44% accepted 86% graduate $68,424 earnings

Florida Atlantic University

Boca Raton, FL · 23,757 students · Public

Florida Atlantic University's Human Resources master's program is tailored for those who want to make a tangible impact in workplace culture and management practices. Students engage in developing strategies that enhance employee satisfaction and organizational performance, making it a suitable choice for future HR leaders committed to fostering inclusive work environments.

66% accepted 63% graduate $56,746 earnings

Florida's full profile

#38

Brigham Young University

Provo, UT · 32,952 students · Private nonprofit

68% accepted 82% graduate $75,790 earnings

Brigham's full profile

#39

Saint Peter's University

Jersey City, NJ · 2,135 students · Private nonprofit

90% accepted 61% graduate $57,815 earnings

Trevecca Nazarene University

Nashville, TN · 1,737 students · Private nonprofit

69% accepted 54% graduate $49,378 earnings

Trevecca's full profile

#41

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

Rice University's Human Resources master’s program is ideal for individuals who aspire to lead organizational change and drive employee engagement in innovative ways. Students can expect to engage deeply with HR theory and practice, preparing them to contribute to vital human capital strategies within various organizations. The program is particularly suited for those who value a collaborative learning environment and are eager to make meaningful impacts in their workplaces.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

The Human Resources master's program at Carnegie Mellon is designed for those who are passionate about shaping workplace cultures and enhancing employee engagement. Students in this program typically dive deep into strategic human resource management, learning how to align HR practices with organizational goals in a rapidly changing business environment. With a focus on analytics and practical application, graduates emerge ready to tackle real-world challenges in the HR field.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

#43

University of Denver

Denver, CO · 6,025 students · Private nonprofit

78% accepted 77% graduate $71,155 earnings

University's full profile

#44

North Park University

Chicago, IL · 1,818 students · Private nonprofit

69% accepted 57% graduate $59,572 earnings

Boston University

Boston, MA · 18,248 students · Private nonprofit

11% accepted 89% graduate $83,238 earnings

Boston's full profile

#46

Wofford College

Spartanburg, SC · 1,816 students · Private nonprofit

52% accepted 82% graduate $68,964 earnings

Wofford's full profile

#47

State University of New York at Plattsburgh

Plattsburgh, NY · 3,769 students · Public

78% accepted 59% graduate $56,403 earnings

Villanova University

Villanova, PA · 6,938 students · Private nonprofit

27% accepted 92% graduate $100,423 earnings

Villanova's full profile

#49

CUNY Lehman College

Bronx, NY · 10,696 students · Public

57% accepted 50% graduate $58,013 earnings

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL · 59,146 students · Public

40% accepted 77% graduate $58,308 earnings

University's full profile

When we look closely at the data, a trend emerges that might surprise many. Babson College's graduates earn $123,938, significantly more than CUNY Bernard M Baruch College's $75,971. This difference of nearly $50,000 in earnings reflects the impact of program reputation and network opportunities, which can play a crucial role in post-graduation success.

As you sift through these 50 schools, think about what matters most to you. Consider factors like location, program fit, campus culture, and how much debt you are willing to take on. Balance the potential earnings against your personal circumstances and career goals. A higher net price might be justified if it leads to significantly higher earnings, but ensure it aligns with your financial situation.

Ultimately, this data sheds light on the journey from education to stable employment. Choosing the right master's program in human resources can significantly affect your family's financial future and career trajectory. With thoughtful consideration of these factors, one decision can open doors to opportunities that lead to lasting stability and success.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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