Master of Science in Human Resource Development
The Â鶹´«Ã½AV Master of Science in Human Resource Development (HRD) prepares working professionals for leadership-oriented careers focused on developing people, improving performance, and strengthening organizations. This 30-credit, 100% online and asynchronous master's degree allows students to complete coursework on a flexible schedule while applying what they learn directly to their own workplace and industry. Through project-based coursework and research, students develop expertise in leadership, coaching, training and development, talent development, strategic planning, team building, decision-making, and performance improvement. The program's flexible, context-free approach allows students from a wide range of industries, including business, healthcare, government, education, nonprofit organizations, and financial institutions, to address real workplace challenges with innovative, evidence-based solutions. The HRD program also offers the flexibility to study part-time or full-time, with no entry exams or dissertation required, making it a practical, career-focused option for professionals seeking to strengthen their leadership abilities and increase their impact within their organizations.
NOTE: This program is not accredited through the AACSB. Like all programs, it is accredited through the university's regional accrediting body, the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Admission
- Meet the ISU Graduate School admissions requirements
- Some programs require additional information (e.g., letters of recommendation); please contact the specific department and review individual departmental sections of this catalog for additional requirements
Additional Application Requirements to the M.S. HRD Program include:
- Students must submit an MS HRD Statement of Interest form
- Students must submit a current resume or vita with their application
Career Opportunities
Graduate Certificate in Human Resource Development: This 12-credit program allows students to earn an online graduate certificate in Human Resource Development (HRD). This online certificate provides a research and skills foundation to develop practitioners in HRD. Courses provide a background in HRD, adult learning, and performance improvement theories and paradigms, as well as their application in HRD practice areas, including identifying and resolving individual, team, and organizational issues.
Graduate Certificate in Organizational Leadership: The 12-credit graduate certificate in Organizational Leadership provides students with a solid foundation in the field of organizational leadership. This online certificate is designed for leaders, aspiring leaders, and those involved in leadership development. This certificate provides students with the theoretical and practical skills needed for leaders to effectively lead their teams and their organizations.
Career Opportunities
Graduates with a master’s degree in human resource development work in all career fields and could be qualified for the following types of positions:
- Training and Development Director
- Supervisor or Manager
- Higher Education or K-12 Professional
- Organizational Leader or Executive
- Trainer and Learning Specialist
- Professional Consultant
- Organizational Development Professional
- Community Relations Coordinator or Manager
- Organizational Effectiveness Professional
- Retail Management
- Career and Technical Education
Job Outlook
Because human resource development skills are highly desirable in today’s job market, the job outlook includes:
- Near 100% job placement rate
- Average salary (according to the government’s Occupational Outlook Handbook) is $61,570 for a training and development specialist and $120,130 for a training and development manager.
- Alumni jobs include:
- Idaho National Laboratory
- Idaho Central Credit Union
- State of Idaho
- Boise State University
- College of Western Idaho
- Business Owner/Entrepreneur
- Simplot
- ITAFOS Inc.
- Bayer
- Minidoka Hospital
- Burley Fire Department
- US Air Force
- St. Luke’s Hospital
- Idaho Peace Officer Standards and Training
- and more!