City University of New York

What you'll study

The programme combines core human resource management theory with practical skills in people analytics and workplace strategy. Typical modules cover staffing and talent acquisition, training and development, compensation and benefits, employment law, organisational behaviour and change management, labour relations and collective bargaining, and HR analytics. Many students also take applied options such as leadership development, diversity and inclusion strategy, performance management systems, or project-based consulting with employers.

Instructional formats commonly include lectures, case studies, group projects and applied capstone work. The curriculum is credit-based and normally comprises a set of required core courses plus electives; some pathways include an internship or practicum and a final capstone project that integrates HR strategy, data analysis and implementation planning.

Entry requirements

Applicants are typically expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited institution. Admissions will consider academic transcripts, a current résumé or CV, a personal statement outlining career goals and relevant experience, and one or more letters of recommendation. Candidates with significant professional HR or related workplace experience may be eligible for admissions flexibility.

Some applicants may be asked to provide standardised test scores depending on the department’s policy; international applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests unless exempt. Professional experience in HR, business, public administration or related fields is advantageous but not always required.

Career prospects

Graduates typically move into roles such as HR generalist, talent acquisition specialist, compensation and benefits analyst, training and development manager, HR business partner, labour relations specialist or HR consultant. The programme also prepares students for specialist pathways in organisational development, diversity and inclusion, workforce analytics and leadership development.

Alumni work across private companies, public agencies, healthcare, education and non-profit organisations. Graduates often find opportunities in human capital advisory firms, employee relations teams, and corporate HR departments where they apply strategic, legal and analytical skills to workforce planning and people-centred initiatives.

Why study at City University of New York

Studying HR at the City University of New York provides proximity to a large and diverse metropolitan labour market, offering plentiful opportunities for internships, employer projects and networking with human resources professionals. CUNY’s programmes tend to emphasise applied learning, with faculty who combine academic research and industry experience.

The university system offers flexible scheduling and part-time study options that suit working professionals, and a broad alumni network across public, private and non-profit sectors. As a public university, CUNY provides pathways to practical HR training at a perceived value relative to private alternatives, while connecting students to the vibrant employment market of New York City.