Masters in Human Resources & Industrial Relations
Masters in HR & Industrial Relations Degree Designed to Advance Your Career
Whether you're switching fields or advancing your human resources career, the masters in human resources & industrial relations at the University of Minnesota is widely recognized for its expertise in HR education. With a proud 75-year legacy of HR educational excellence, our expertly crafted curriculum and human resources courses blend foundational HR principles, cutting-edge practices, and key industry theories—equipping you with the knowledge and skills to excel in today’s evolving workplace. Plus, you'll build a strong professional network while tapping into Minnesota’s world-class business hub of Fortune 500 companies, startups, and industry leaders.
- 91% of 2024 graduates received job offers within 6 months of graduation
- $80,068 mean starting base salary for 2024 graduates
- 1:1 career support
- SHRM-aligned curriculum
Become a Human Resource Leader with a MHRIR Degree
The University of Minnesota’s masters degree in human resources & industrial relations offers a comprehensive exploration of the HR and industrial relations field, led by internationally renowned faculty dedicated to delivering a dynamic and enriching educational experience. If you are looking to maximize your career potential, the HRIR/MBA dual degree also provides an exceptional opportunity with a high return on investment.
campus; day
classes
Discover UMN’s Multidisciplinary Human Resources Courses
Our HR masters degree combines theory and practice, providing a multidisciplinary foundation in economics, psychology, business, ethics, culture, and law. Our SHRM-aligned human resources classes cover every aspect of the employment relationship, from HR management to labor relations, ensuring a rigorous and comprehensive education. Through a leadership practicum, students apply classroom learning to real-world challenges, gaining hands-on experience. The program requires 40 credits, with most students taking 12–14 credits per semester for a balanced and immersive academic journey.
Explore Human Resources Courses
Make an Investment in Yourself with a MHRIR Degree
Earning a masters degree in human resources is an investment for your career that gives you multiple benefits. You will boost your earning potential, expand your professional network, and gain access to Minnesota's second-to-none business landscape—home to Fortune 500 companies, a dynamic entrepreneurial community, and industry leaders with cross-sector expertise. Whether in Minnesota or across the globe, this degree gives you the competitive edge to excel in HR and beyond.
- Resident total tuition: $48,000
- Non-resident total tuition: $80,400
Merit-based scholarships are available.
Explore Tuition & SCHOLARSHIPS
Become a Human Resource Leader with a MHRIR Degree
The University of Minnesota’s masters degree in human resources & industrial relations offers a comprehensive exploration of the HR and industrial relations field, led by internationally renowned faculty dedicated to delivering a dynamic and enriching educational experience. If you are looking to maximize your career potential, the HRIR/MBA dual degree also provides an exceptional opportunity with a high return on investment.
campus; day
classes
Discover UMN’s Multidisciplinary Human Resources Courses
Our HR masters degree combines theory and practice, providing a multidisciplinary foundation in economics, psychology, business, ethics, culture, and law. Our SHRM-aligned human resources classes cover every aspect of the employment relationship, from HR management to labor relations, ensuring a rigorous and comprehensive education. Through a leadership practicum, students apply classroom learning to real-world challenges, gaining hands-on experience. The program requires 40 credits, with most students taking 12–14 credits per semester for a balanced and immersive academic journey.
Explore Human Resources Courses
Make an Investment in Yourself with a MHRIR Degree
Earning a masters degree in human resources is an investment for your career that gives you multiple benefits. You will boost your earning potential, expand your professional network, and gain access to Minnesota's second-to-none business landscape—home to Fortune 500 companies, a dynamic entrepreneurial community, and industry leaders with cross-sector expertise. Whether in Minnesota or across the globe, this degree gives you the competitive edge to excel in HR and beyond.
- Resident total tuition: $48,000
- Non-resident total tuition: $80,400
Merit-based scholarships are available.
Explore Tuition & SCHOLARSHIPS
Elevate Your HR & IR Skills in a Thriving Business Ecosystem
At Minnesota Carlson, expert guidance from our acclaimed faculty, executive boards, and the Carlson Business Career Center empowers you to launch a successful career. Immerse yourself in a dynamic Twin Cities ecosystem that features numerous Fortune 500 firms across diverse industries, innovative NGOs, a thriving entrepreneurial community, and extensive cross-industry collaboration. Our graduates excel at leading organizations such as Ecolab, General Mills, Lenovo, PepsiCo, Tencent, UnitedHealth Group, Honeywell, and Land O’Lakes.
Immerse Yourself in Hands-On Learning
Experience the power of hands-on learning in the Master of Human Resources & Industrial Relations program. You’ll work with our top-ranked faculty, integrating real-world case studies, expert speakers, and practical projects into every course. In the Leadership Practicum and HRIR in Practice: Strategy, Execution, and Ethics courses, you collaborate with peers to craft evidence-based solutions for authentic HR challenges while addressing ethical and implementation considerations.
Grow Your Network Inside and Outside the Classroom
Through Minnesota Carlson’s Master of Human Resources & Industrial Relations program, you’ll form relationships that last far beyond graduation. Our vibrant HR community brings you together with dedicated faculty, fellow students, and a robust alumni network eager to share insights and opportunities. Whether you’re attending the HR Tomorrow Conference or engaging with the Center for Human Resources and Labor Studies Alumni Association, you’ll gain the professional support you need to thrive in an ever-evolving HR landscape.
The Carlson experience gave me access to opportunities I likely wouldn’t have had otherwise. Through Carlson, I’ve developed meaningful relationships with Fortune 500 leaders and learned about the many amazing companies in the Minneapolis area.
Beyond its strong reputation, the school offers a unique sense of community that values collaboration and a hands-on approach to learning—something that truly resonates with me.
Masters in Human Resources & Industrial Relations Alumni
Discover how this industrial relations & HR masters degree has propelled the careers of 3 alumni, each making an impact at different companies and accelerating their success in the HR field.
Center for Human Resources and Labor Studies Alumni Association (CHRLS)
CHRLS cultivates a strong community of alumni and MHRIR students, fostering connections and ongoing professional development. Through the Association, alumni and students gain access to valuable career resources, networking opportunities, and learning activities designed to support long-term growth and success in the field.
Is a Master of Human Resources & Industrial Relations Right for You?
Discover how earning a Masters in Human Resources and Industrial Relations can help you advance your career, develop specialized skills, and make a lasting impact in the workplace. Learn about the program’s curriculum, career opportunities, and benefits.
Connect with Human Resources Masters Degree Admissions
Unlock your potential in the fast-growing field of human resources and industrial relations.
