A bachelor's degree in human resource management prepares students for entry-level positions in the field. Graduates may serve as assistants to human resource directors in larger companies or as human resource generalists in smaller companies. Most bachelor's degree programs require that students first be admitted to the school, which may ask for a minimum GPA and ACT score. Generally, most schools admit students on a competitive basis and there is no minimum requirement aside from what the admissions committee determines. Degree programs typically require the completion of 120 to 130 credit hours in general education studies during the first two years and upper-level courses in the remaining two. Some schools offer bachelor's degrees in the field online, while others offer the degree as an on-campus program only. Courses in human resource management at the bachelor's degree level include strategic staffing, training and development, compensation and benefits, and coaching in organizations.
Master's degree requirements for specializations in human resources vary somewhat according to which degree is offered. For instance, Villanova University offers a master of science degree, while Penn State University offers a master of professional studies with a human resource management emphasis. To apply, students must submit official transcripts, letters of recommendation, a resume and a statement of purpose. This is generally true of most master's degree programs regardless of the field of study. Human resource management degrees at this level usually require 30 to 36 credit hours in the field. Courses at the graduate level include organizational change management, employment and labor law, human resource metrics and statistical research, employment compensation, ethics and staffing training.
Most schools with doctorate degree programs in the human resource management field offer the Ph.D., designed for those who want to pursue advanced research and possibly teach at the college level. Admission requirements for most Ph.D. programs are highly competitive. Students typically have to submit minimum Graduate Record Examination scores, transcripts from all schools attended, letters of recommendation and a statement of purpose. Students must give a dissertation in addition to completing the required curriculum. Most programs also require comprehensive examinations and, in some cases, an oral defense of the dissertation. Courses in most Ph.D. programs build on concepts developed at the master's level. Credit hour requirements will vary greatly depending upon the program. Required courses include labor markets and public policy, advanced qualitative research, comparative industrial relations and management of entrepreneurial organizations.