Center for Human Resources and Labor Studies
Founded in 1945, Minnesota Carlson's Center for Human Resources and Labor Studies is an international leader in education and research. The Center is home to an internationally recognized master's program in human resources and industrial relations, labor outreach programs, and an active alumni association including professionals from around the world.
Our programs help to develop academic and professional knowledge through ties to research in the Department of Work and Organizations, the business community, and labor organizations. Our multifaceted, interdisciplinary approach helps us to build a better world of work for employees, labor organizations, employers, and society as a whole.
Masters of Human Resources and Industrial Relations
The Master of Human Resources and Industrial Relations program is widely considered to be one of the top programs of its kind in the nation and is available through a full-time or part-time option. Taught by world-renowned faculty, the curriculum gives students a thorough understanding of contemporary HR practices and the underlying theories that are necessary for successful careers in the field.
Department of Work and Organizations
The faculty of the Department of Work and Organizations create cutting-edge research and offers engaging educational programming focused on the workplace, managing and leading people and organizations, and the behavior of individuals and groups. The department offers programs at the undergraduate, master's, and doctoral level, including the internationally recognized Master of Human Resources and Industrial Relations.
CHRLS Alumni Association
In addition to strengthening the relationship between alumni and the Center for Human Resources and Labor Studies, the Alumni Association promotes leadership in human resources and industrial relations by providing academic and professional learning experiences, facilitating access to the center's resources, and sharing professional opportunities.
Georgianna E. Herman Library
The Georgianna E. Herman Library is a reference library created by the Center for Human Resources and Labor Studies for the HRIR program, specializing in human resources management and labor relations. The library is available to be used by HRIR students, faculty, alumni, and the professional community, as well as by the general public.
Labor Education Service
The Labor Education Service is the only educational program in the state specifically focused on the needs of Minnesota workers and their organizations. For more than 70 years, we’ve provided training for hundreds of unions and thousands of workers.
CHRLS Newsletter
The CHRLS Newsletter is a publication for alumni, friends, faculty, and staff of the Center for Human Resources and Labor Studies, and is published electronically several times per year.
HR Tomorrow
HR Tomorrow is hosted by the Center for Human Resources and Labor Studies. HR Tomorrow aims to showcase the knowledge and expertise of industry experts in the field of Human Resources and People Management. The HR Tomorrow Conference inspires collaboration and conversation among industry leaders and top academics that help human resources professionals keep pace with the ever-changing workplace dynamics.
Save the Date: May 1, 2026