University of Southern Mississippi

What you'll study

The programme combines core business disciplines with specialised human resources subjects. You will complete general education and business foundation courses alongside HR-focused modules that cover both theoretical and applied aspects of the field.

• Core HR modules: recruitment and selection, training and development, performance management, compensation and benefits, employment law, and labour/industrial relations.
• Business foundations: organisational behaviour, principles of management, accounting and finance basics, marketing fundamentals, and business ethics.
• HR technology and analytics: human resource information systems (HRIS), HR analytics and workforce data interpretation.
• Strategic and legal context: strategic human resource management, employment regulations, diversity and inclusion, and ethics in employment practices.
• Applied learning: internship or practicum placements with local employers, case-study projects, negotiation and conflict resolution simulations, and a capstone or senior project synthesising HR knowledge and practice.
• Electives and concentrations: options may include compensation strategy, talent management, small business HR, or non-profit HR to tailor the degree to career interests.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent with a satisfactory academic record and completion of college preparatory coursework. Typical prerequisites include writing and mathematics competence demonstrated through previous coursework or standardised test results where required by the university.

Transfer students should provide official college transcripts showing completion of transferable credits; an associate degree or relevant college coursework can accelerate progress in the major. Mature and non-traditional applicants may be considered based on prior work experience and additional supporting documentation.

International applicants must meet the university's English language proficiency requirements and submit certified academic records translated into English. All entrants must satisfy the University of Southern Mississippi's general admission policies and any departmental advising entry steps.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a broad range of roles in public, private and non-profit organisations. Typical entry and mid-level positions include:

• Human resources generalist or specialist
• Recruiter or talent acquisition coordinator
• Training and development or learning and development specialist
• Compensation and benefits analyst or payroll administrator
• HRIS analyst and workforce data coordinator
• Employee relations or labour relations representative
• HR consultant or small business HR manager

Graduates commonly progress into HR leadership roles, develop specialist careers in areas such as compensation or organisational development, or continue into postgraduate study such as a master's in human resource management, business administration or industrial/organisational psychology. The curriculum also aligns with preparation for professional credentials and employer-recognised certifications in HR.

Why study at University of Southern Mississippi

The University of Southern Mississippi offers a programme that emphasises applied learning and employer connections across the Gulf Coast and broader region. Students benefit from access to experienced faculty with business and research backgrounds, career services support, and opportunities for internships and community-engaged projects that build practical skills.

The university's campus environment supports small-group learning, student organisations and professional development activities such as guest speakers, workshops and a student HR chapter that helps bridge classroom learning and workplace expectations. Advising and placement services are available to help students plan coursework, secure experiential placements and prepare for certification or graduate study.