MHRIR Classroom

Master of Human Resources & Industrial Relations

Whether you’re looking to make a career shift or take the next step up the corporate ladder, the Human Resources and Industrial Relations program will help you reach your career goals.

  • 96% of 2022 graduates accepted job offers within 6 months of graduation
  • Choose the format that best fits your life: full-time or part-time
  • 1:1 career support
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Human Resources & Industrial Relations Program at a Glance

The University of Minnesota’s Master of Human Resources & Industrial Relations program is widely considered one of the top programs of its kind in the nation. For 75 years, the program prepares students for successful careers by providing a thorough understanding of the core functions, contemporary practices, and underlying theories of human resources and industrial relations. 

Through engaging coursework, world-renowned faculty, and a robust network of alumni that spans the globe, you’ll become a leader in the dynamic field of human resources.

A wealth of opportunities for future HR leaders

Whether you complete your master’s full-time in 3 semesters or take it at your own pace part-time, the University of Minnesota's Master of Human Resources & Industrial Relations program gives students an opportunity to study all aspects of the human resources and industrial relations field with an internationally-known faculty committed to providing each student with a rich educational experience. Additionally, you can consider the incredible opportunity and ROI of a HRIR/MBA dual degree.

 

start date
Start date
Fall (Full-Time or 
Part-Time); Spring
(Part-Time only)
duration
Duration
Full-Time:
16-months; Part-
Time: 3-5 years
format
Full-time: On-
campus day
classes; Part-time:
Evening classes
work experience
Work experience
Not required,
although it is
encouraged
HRIR courses

Dynamic field of study, well-rounded education

By blending theory and practice, our human resources degree provides students with a multi-disciplinary foundation in economics, psychology, business, ethics, culture, and law. ​​HRIR encompasses all aspects of the employment relationship, from human resource management to labor relations and beyond and the Carlson School MHRIR curriculum provides a rigorous education across the entire field. The program requires the completion of 40 credits, with full-time students typically enrolling in 12-14 credits and working professional part-time students typically taking 4-8 credits each semester.

 

View the course syllabi

HR Students Hone Crucial Expertise in Global Teaming

Prepare to thrive on cross-cultural teams

Today's employers demand HR leaders who can overcome cultural barriers to accomplish key goals. Get hands-on experience working on multicultural teams: MHRIR students come from 14 countries around the world. In our program, students study together in tight-knit groups, creating bonds that last a lifetime. Additionally, the Graduate Society of Human Resources Leaders (GSHRL) is a professional organization that proactively and responsively enhances the quality of the academic, professional, and social lives of HR master’s degree students at the University of Minnesota. 

Class of 2023 profile stats:

  • 73% female students
  • 16% students of color
  • 47% international students
  • 2.1 years average full-time work experience
     

Meet our Students

GBCC Reception

Enhance your career, stand out from the crowd

The Carlson School takes an individualized approach to help each student develop a sound career strategy. From the dean's office to program directors, faculty, executive boards, student organizations, and the Graduate Business Career Center (GBCC), we work in concert to help Master of Human Resources and Industrial Relations students reach their professional goals.

  • $10,000 median signing bonus on job offers for the Class of 2022
  • 66% of the Class of 2023 accepted summer internships
  • MHRIR students are invited to more than 40 recruiting events every year

 

Explore our Career Services

Where alumni landed after graduation

Learn how the Master of Human Resources and Industrial Relations degree has helped three alumni launch and accelerate their human resources career at three different companies.

An Investment in Your Future

A master’s degree is one of the best investments you can make. Increase your earning power, expand your network, and connect with companies here in Minnesota and around the world.

$74,000 median starting salary*

The starting base salary for the Carlson School Master of Human Resources & Industrial Relations 2022 graduates.

 

*$82,500 median salary with U.S. work authorization.

4,000+ coaching appointments

The GBCC coaches meet 1:1 with students throughout the year. Learn more about the impact of career services on your Carlson School experience.

Tuition

Full-time student tuition for residents or reciprocity is approximately $11,070 per semester, for non-residents it is approximately $18,370 per semester. Part-time student tuition is approximately $1,120 per credit (48-49 credits are required to graduate). 

Take the next step

Apply early and give yourself the best chance to join the Carlson School's Master of Human Resources & Industrial Relations program. Note: The full-time program does not offer spring admission. International students who need a visa can only be considered for the full-time program.

Application Deadlines

  • October 15 (Part-Time Program)
  • February 1 (Full-Time Program)
    Rolling admission after that until the class is full.
  • June 15 (Part-Time Program)

 

Amy Danzeisen Headshot

Stay Connected

If you have questions about the MHRIR program, please contact Amy Danzeisen at hrirgrad@umn.edu.


 

Contact Master's in Human Resources