Human Resource Management (HRM)
Human Resource Management (HRM, human resource management, or HR) is the management function that involves the administration of people or personnel aspects within an organization, aiming to effectively utilize human resources to achieve both organizational and individual goals.
In the context of rapid global economic integration, HR is increasingly valued. Unlike the mixed HR degree setups domestically, institutions in the U.S. typically differentiate between Industrial Relations and Human Resources Management when referring to HR.
What Are the Research Branches of HR?
Human Resources and Organizations
International and Comparative Labor
Collective Representation
Dispute Resolution
Labor Market Policy
HR Curriculum
Law of the Management Process
Labor Relations
Cost Accounting
Labor Economics
Industrial Psychology
Organizational Behavior-Micro Perspective
Compensation Management
Recruitment, Selection, and Appraisal
Human Resource Policy
Planning and Information Systems
HR Career Paths and Compensation
Graduates of HRM find employment in industries including finance and insurance (30%); information technology (13.3%); consulting services (16.7%); fast-moving consumer goods (16.7%); electronics (6.7%); pharmaceuticals and bioengineering (6.7%); and durable consumer goods (light industry, home appliances, apparel, textiles) at 10%. It is evident that recruiting companies are predominantly in hot and high-potential sectors such as finance and insurance, consulting services, and fast-moving consumer goods. Among the many positions offered, HR management, marketing, consulting, auditing, and trainee roles are the most popular.
What Are HR Salaries Like in the U.S.?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 'Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2016–17 Edition,' the median annual salary for human resources managers is $102,780. Actual wages can vary significantly depending on specialization, location, years of experience, and various other factors. In other words, your salary might be around $102,789.
The BLS reports that the top 10% of HR managers earned $183,590, HR specialists and recruiters earned a median of $57,420, and compensation and benefits managers earned a median of $108,070.
HR salary ranges and job roles vary widely because they span a broad range of business functions, known in the U.S. as the nine modules. If you land a job at a tech consulting firm, congratulations—you could earn the highest salaries. And if you’re also skilled in labor relations and organizational development, that’s an added bonus.
The demand for HR professionals in the U.S. is quite high. The BLS reports that HR job opportunities are among the best in corporate and business management. Data shows: HR managers are projected to grow 9%, a bit faster than average; HR specialists 5%, slower than average; and training and development managers 7%, as fast as average.
HR Salaries by Industry in the U.S.
Companies and enterprises, local government hospitals, employment services, computer systems design, and more all have significant demand for HR resources.
Information Services - $166,250
Securities and Commodity Contracts Intermediation and Brokerage - $163,110
Motion Picture and Video - $153,910
Cable and Other Subscription Programming - $150,330
Financial Investment Activities - $148,390
Certification is important in the U.S. The Society for Human Resource Management offers various certification programs, and many employers prefer to hire those who are certified. In fact, some jobs may require certification. Stay informed about changes in federal, state, and local employment laws, as well as updates to compensation and benefits plans, and be sure to familiarize yourself with various HRIS software packages.
U.S. Application Requirements
Academic Background
No specific major is required, but backgrounds in business, psychology, communications, or humanities/social sciences are preferred. A GPA of 3.0 or higher is needed. Some schools require prerequisite courses such as microeconomics, statistics, or psychology.
Standardized Tests
Some programs require GRE or GMAT scores; specific requirements vary.
Work Experience
While HR has fewer applicants compared to finance and accounting in business, and background requirements are less strict, the competitiveness of HR programs should not be underestimated. For some schools, work experience is still preferred. It is also recommended that applicants undertake relevant internships in HR or personnel departments of Fortune 500 companies to enhance their professional background, integrating theory with practice, finding genuine interest in the field, and uncovering their potential in HR studies. Most importantly, the insights gained during internships will lay the foundation for the HR master's phase, linking personal experiences with the application.
Popular HRM Programs in the U.S.
Cornell University
National University Ranking #14
Program Offered
Master of Industrial and Labor Relations (MILR) offers a diverse academic experience, providing practical knowledge from faculty expertise. Cornell University boasts a strong alumni network in related fields, playing an active role in recruiting and promoting graduates. Core courses include: Labor Relations, Labor and Employment Law, Statistical Methods for Social Sciences, Organizational Behavior, Labor Economics, and Human Resource Management.
Application Requirements
1–4 years of work experience required, unless the applicant is exceptionally outstanding. GRE/GMAT scores required.
Ohio State University
National University Ranking #54
Program Offered
Master of Human Resource Management (MHRM) is offered by the Fisher College of Business, designed to give students an in-depth understanding of HR functions in a rapidly changing business environment. The curriculum goes beyond traditional classroom experiences, offering case-based applied analysis, executive lectures, and top-tier career support. The average starting salary for the Class of 2017 was $70,549.
Application Requirements
No specific major background required; work experience is not required, but 90% of admitted students have at least one year of work experience. GRE/GMAT scores required.
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
National University Ranking #69
Program Offered
Master of Arts in Human Resources and Industrial Relations is taught by world-renowned faculty, providing deep insight into contemporary HR practices and the foundational theories essential for success in the field. 90% of graduates secure employment within six months. The average starting salary for the Class of 2017 was $77,792.
Application Requirements
GPA 3.0+; no specific undergraduate major required; work experience is not required but encouraged.
Michigan State University
National University Ranking #81
Program Offered
Master of Human Resources & Labor Relations prepares future leaders in HR. Students are diverse and of high caliber, gaining comprehensive foundational knowledge of contemporary HR, strategic thinking abilities as business leaders, and a global perspective. They also draw on faculty research and professional experience, learning cutting-edge knowledge, empirical analysis, rich practical cases, and attending guest lectures by top professionals.
Application Requirements
Average GPA 3.5; GRE (50th percentile) or GMAT (650+) required.
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