Program Overview

Introduction to the Master of Science in Human Resources

The Master of Science in Human Resources (MSHR) at DePaul University connects people, leadership, and strategy, with real-world learning at its core. This program is designed to provide students with the tools and network needed to lead with impact in the field of human resources.

Program Snapshot

• Duration: As little as 15 months (Full-Time) or 21 months (Part-Time)
• Formats: Full-Time or Part-Time, In-Person or Online
• Location: Downtown Chicago or Online
• Start Term: Fall

Why Study Human Resources at DePaul?

DePaul University's location in Chicago provides a dynamic backdrop for learning, with a curriculum built around real industry needs and partnerships. The program offers:

• Live Industry Projects: Tackle real-time HR challenges with companies like Bosch.
• Capstone Consulting: Solve workforce problems for real organizations and present solutions to company leaders.
• Executive Networking Opportunities: Connect with Chicago-based HR professionals through panels, mixers, and mentorship opportunities.

What You'll Learn

The MSHR program provides real-world training in strategies and tools that are in demand by today's top employers. Students will graduate ready to lead teams, solve talent challenges, and shape workplace culture. Key areas of study include:

• Strategic Talent Development: Design workforce strategies that drive business results.
• People Analytics & Technology: Master tools like R, RStudio, CapSim, Qualtrics, and O*NET to analyze performance and guide data-driven decisions.
• Legal & Ethical Leadership: Navigate employment law, diversity, employee relations, and ethical decision-making.
• Global & Organizational Agility: Prepare for a world of hybrid work, DEI initiatives, and workforce globalization.
• Consulting & Change Management: Gain hands-on experience in organizational development, internal consulting, and change leadership.

Career Opportunities

The MSHR opens doors across HR, including generalist, specialist, and consulting roles. Some roles that graduates have pursued include:

• Human Resources Business Partner (HRBP)
• Talent Acquisition
• Talent Development
• Total Rewards Analyst
• DEI Manager
• People Analytics Specialist
• Labor Relations Specialist
• Organizational Development Consultant

Support Beyond Graduation

DePaul University offers a range of support services to help students succeed beyond graduation, including:

• DePaul's Career Management Center: Work 1:1 with experienced career coaches and get tailored support for job searches, resumes, and interviews.
• Faculty with Industry Ties: Learn from instructors who are active researchers and can open doors and provide a real-world perspective.
• Alumni Network: Join a global business community with more than 74,000 DePaul business graduates, working across consultancies, corporations, and government agencies.
• DePaul's Chapter of SHRM: Connect with a peer-led chapter of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), offering projects with direct access to Chicago's HR professionals and long-lasting connections.

Degree Requirements

To complete the MS in Human Resources, students must:

• Satisfactorily complete the college residency requirement.
• Satisfactorily complete 12 courses (nine HR core courses, three KGSB electives).
• Complete all courses for credit toward the degree with satisfactory grades within six calendar years after the candidate's first term of enrollment in the Kellstadt Graduate School of Business.

Admission Requirements

To be admitted to the MSHR program, applicants must:

• Submit an online application and the required application fee.
• Submit an essay explaining their interest in the program and professional goals.
• Submit a resume that summarizes their work experience and educational background.
• Submit official transcripts from all degree-granting institutions attended.
• Note: Letters of recommendation are optional for this program.

International Student Admission Requirements

International students must meet additional requirements, which are outlined separately.

Deadlines

Students may apply to enroll in any quarter, with recommended application deadlines as follows:

• Enrollment Quarter: Domestic Student Deadline / International Student Deadline
• Fall: August 15 / June 15
• Winter: December 1 / October 15
• Spring: March 1 / January 15
• Summer: June 1 / April 15

Course Requirements

Students complete the MS in Human Resources by taking 12 courses across two groups:

1. Nine core Human Resource courses:
   • MGT 523: Talent Acquisition
   • MGT 525: Talent Development
   • MGT 526: Total Rewards
   • MGT 535: Change Management and Consulting
   • MGT 552: Managing Diversity and Inclusion
   • MGT 555: Human Capital Strategy and Science
   • MGT 591: Fundamentals of People Analytics
   • MGT 592: Advanced People Analytics
   • MGT 794: Chicago Project Capstone
2. Three electives chosen from any course offered by the Kellstadt Graduate School of Business.