Graduate

Penn State’s residential Master of Science in Human Resources and Employment Relations (HRER) is a two-year, 39-credit program. The mission of the School of Labor and Employment Relations’s MS in Human Resources and Employment Relations program is to prepare students to excel in a variety of human resource management and employment relations roles by developing students’ functional knowledge, business acumen, global and ethical awareness, and analytical and strategic thinking skills required to facilitate employee and organizational success. Further, the program highlights the growing importance of diversity in the workforce and the globalization of public and private organizations.

In addition to the base HRER program, there are two options available: 1) HR and 2) ER. The HR option prepares students for a career in the human resource management field, whereas the ER option prepares students for a career in employment relations. All students receive some exposure to the other field, but coursework in each option is focused on preparing students for success in either the HRM or ER professions.

Every five years, the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) – the professional body representing HR practitioners in the United States – reviews programs for alignment with its academic curriculum. The School last completed the renewal process in 2020 and the MS in HRER (HR Option) is confirmed to be in alignment. As a student in the program, you can be sure that you are receiving an appropriate education for building your career in HRM and will be well-prepared for future professional certifications.

The School of Labor and Employment Relations also offers several integrated programs at our University Park campus.