Rochester Institute of Technology

What you'll study

This master's programme covers the core areas of modern human resources practice, emphasising both strategic perspectives and hands‑on implementation. Typical modules include:

• Strategic Human Resource Management – aligning HR strategy with organisational goals and change management.
• Talent Acquisition and Workforce Planning – recruitment strategy, selection techniques and workforce forecasting.
• Learning, Training and Development – instructional design, needs analysis and evaluation of learning interventions.
• Compensation, Benefits and Reward – pay structures, job evaluation, incentive systems and total reward design.
• Employment Law and Employee Relations – legal frameworks, workplace policies and collective bargaining fundamentals.
• Performance Management – objective setting, appraisal systems and performance improvement processes.
• HR Analytics and HR Information Systems (HRIS) – people metrics, data analysis and the use of technology in HR decision‑making.
• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion – inclusive practices, bias mitigation and building equitable workplaces.
• Organisational Development and Change – diagnosing organisational issues and designing interventions for culture and structure.

The programme typically culminates in a capstone project, practicum or consulting assignment that requires students to apply course learning to a real organisational issue. Students engage with case studies, simulations and practitioner speakers to develop applied competencies.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold a recognised bachelor's degree in any discipline. Admissions committees look for evidence of academic ability and potential for graduate study; many successful applicants also bring professional experience in business or HR-related roles. Typical application components include:

• Official transcripts from previous higher education institutions.
• A current CV or résumé outlining academic and professional experience.
• A personal statement describing career goals and reasons for undertaking the programme.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English (e.g. recognised test scores or equivalent evidence).

Standardised test scores (such as the GRE or GMAT) may be optional or considered on a case‑by‑case basis; applicants should consult the programme admissions page or contact the admissions office for the most up‑to‑date guidance. Relevant professional experience can strengthen an application, particularly for applicants seeking advanced standing or part‑time study.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to a wide range of HR and people‑related roles across public, private and not‑for‑profit sectors. Typical career outcomes include:

• HR generalist or HR business partner roles, delivering end‑to‑end HR services for organisations.
• Talent acquisition and recruitment specialists, managing sourcing and selection strategies.
• Compensation and benefits analysts, designing pay structures and reward programmes.
• Learning and development managers, leading training programmes and leadership development.
• Organisational development consultants, driving change, culture and effectiveness initiatives.
• HRIS and people analytics professionals, using data to inform workforce decisions.
• Employee relations and compliance specialists, handling policy, investigations and regulatory matters.

The programme’s applied orientation and links with industry help graduates build practical portfolios and connections to employers, supporting transitions into HR practice or progression within existing HR careers.

Why study at Rochester Institute of Technology

Rochester Institute of Technology is known for its career‑focused graduate education and strong links to industry. Students on the Human Resources Management and Services programme benefit from:

• An applied curriculum that emphasises experiential learning, practitioner perspectives and projects with real organisations.
• Interdisciplinary opportunities to work with colleagues in business analytics, information systems and organisational leadership, reflecting RIT’s strength in technology and applied research.
• Access to dedicated career and employer engagement services that support internships, co‑operative education experiences and job placement.
• Faculty with a mix of academic and professional HR experience, providing contemporary insight into workplace practice.
• A supportive campus environment with professional development activities, student clubs and networking events focused on HR and business careers.

These features make the programme suitable for candidates seeking a practical, workforce‑oriented master’s degree that prepares them for strategic and operational HR roles in a wide range of organisations.