Benedictine University

What you'll study

This master’s programme combines core HR theory with applied practice to prepare you for strategic HR roles. Typical modules cover:

• Foundations of Human Resource Management – principles of HR, role of HR in organisational strategy and HR ethics.
• Employment Law and Compliance – US employment law fundamentals, workplace compliance and risk management.
• Talent Management and Staffing – recruitment, selection, onboarding and employer branding.
• Learning, Training and Development – training design, delivery, evaluation and leadership development.
• Compensation and Benefits – pay structures, benefits design, total rewards and performance-linked pay.
• Organisational Development and Change – change management, culture, organisation design and employee engagement.
• HR Analytics and Information Systems – people data, metrics, workforce planning and HR technology.
• Labour Relations and Collective Bargaining – where applicable, union-management relations and negotiation strategies.
• Capstone or Applied Project – a practicum, consultancy-style project or research-based capstone that integrates learning with workplace practice.

Courses are typically delivered in a mix of lectures, case studies, group projects and applied assignments; many students can choose between on-campus, evening or online formats to fit work commitments.

Entry requirements

• A recognised bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution or equivalent.
• Official academic transcripts demonstrating satisfactory undergraduate performance.
• A current résumé or CV outlining any professional experience; relevant work experience in HR or related fields is advantageous but not always mandatory.
• A personal statement explaining career goals and reasons for pursuing graduate study in HR.
• Letters of recommendation may be requested, typically one to two, from academic or professional referees.
• For applicants whose first language is not English, proficiency evidence such as IELTS or TOEFL may be required according to university policy.
• Standardised test scores (e.g. GRE/GMAT) are sometimes optional and may be requested on a case-by-case basis; check the programme admissions guidance for current practice.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a broad range of HR and people-focused roles across sectors including corporate, non-profit, education and healthcare. Typical career paths include:

• Human Resources Manager or Generalist
• Talent Acquisition / Recruitment Specialist
• Compensation and Benefits Analyst
• Learning and Development or Organisational Development Specialist
• HR Business Partner
• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion practitioner
• Labour Relations and Employee Relations Advisor
• HR Consultant or People Operations Leader

The curriculum emphasises practical skills, HR metrics and strategic thinking that support progression into leadership positions and preparation for professional certification pathways offered by organisations such as SHRM and HRCI.

Why study at Benedictine University

• Practitioner-focused teaching: Faculty bring industry experience and applied perspectives that link academic learning to workplace practice.
• Flexible delivery: Options for online and evening classes support part-time study alongside employment.
• Small class sizes: Personalised attention and opportunities for collaborative projects and networking with peers and local employers.
• Applied learning opportunities: Capstone projects, internships and practitioner-led assignments help you build a professional portfolio.
• Career support: University career services and alumni connections assist with job search, interview preparation and professional development.