Human Resources Management and Services graduates earn a median $54,739 Across 348 US programmes, two years after finishing
See the degree grade →The Master’s in Human Resources Management and Services at CUNY prepares students for strategic and operational HR roles in public, private and non‑profit organisations. It suits graduates and early‑ to mid‑career professionals who want practical HR skills—talent management, employment law, HR analytics—and access to New York City's employer network.
The programme combines core human resources theory with applied skills for managing people and workplace systems. Typical topics include employment law and compliance, organisational behaviour, strategic human resources management, talent acquisition and workforce planning, training and development, compensation and benefits, labour and employee relations, diversity and inclusion, and HR analytics.
Courses are usually offered in a mix of seminar and applied formats; many students complete a practicum, internship or capstone project that partners them with an employer to solve a real HR challenge. Electives let you focus on areas such as international HR, nonprofit HR management, HR information systems, and compensation design. Classes are scheduled to accommodate full‑time and part‑time students, with some campuses offering evening or hybrid delivery.
Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree. Admissions typically consider undergraduate GPA, a résumé or CV, a statement of purpose outlining career goals and relevant experience, and one or more letters of recommendation. Some programmes within CUNY may prefer or require prior work experience in HR or a related field, while other tracks welcome recent graduates.
Applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the university’s English language proficiency requirements, commonly demonstrated by approved test scores or equivalent evidence. Specific requirements such as prerequisite coursework, test score policies (GRE/GMAT), or portfolio materials can vary by CUNY college, so prospective students should consult the page for the particular campus or school offering the HR master’s.
Graduates are prepared for a wide range of HR and people‑management roles across sectors. Common entry and mid‑level roles include HR generalist, HR business partner, talent acquisition specialist, training and development coordinator, compensation and benefits analyst, and labour relations specialist. With experience, graduates frequently move into senior HR leadership positions such as HR director, head of talent, chief people officer, or become independent consultants.
The programme also supports careers in related areas such as organisational development, workforce analytics, labour policy and public sector human resources. Many students use the degree to pursue professional HR credentials (for example, SHRM or HRCI certifications) or further academic study.
CUNY provides direct access to New York City’s diverse employer market—multinational corporations, non‑profit organisations, cultural institutions and government agencies—helping students secure internships and applied projects. The university’s multiple campuses offer a variety of programme formats, flexible scheduling and faculty who combine academic expertise with practitioner experience.
As a large public university system, CUNY emphasises affordability and access, and its career services and alumni networks are geared to helping students transition into the city’s competitive labour market. Students also benefit from opportunities to prepare for professional HR certifications and to engage with local HR associations and industry events that support networking and career development.
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