Online Master of Science in Human Resources and Organization Development
Prepare for the exciting future of HR leadership today
Sidebar
Master of science in human resources and organization development, online
The online master's of human resources and organization development (MS HROD) at the University of Louisville prepares professionals in Kentucky and beyond to lead people, strategy and change in today’s complex workplaces.
Designed for working adults, the program blends advanced HR expertise with organizational development practice, equipping students to influence culture, improve performance and drive sustainable results across industries.
Delivered 100% online and fully aligned with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), UofL’s HROD degree is built for professionals ready to move beyond transactional HR into strategic leadership roles, emphasizing real-world application, ethical leadership and evidence-based decision-making.
Students in this program develop the skills to design organizational change pathways, strengthen talent acquisition and management systems and advise leaders at every level, while building a strong professional portfolio that reflects their learning and impact. HROD graduates emerge prepared to lead with credibility, confidence and purpose in a rapidly evolving world.
US News & World Report Recognition
This program is offered through the College of Education and Human Development which has been consistently ranked for its graduate education programs as among the best in the nation by U.S. News & World Report for its graduate education online programs, academic excellence and student support.
Human Resources and Organization Development, MS
Monday, May 4 2026: 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Join the MSSW faculty and staff for a virtual information session to learn more about the program, how to apply, and get your questions answered.
MS in human resources and organization development, 100% online
The big picture
The online master of science in human resources and organization development is designed for professionals in Kentucky and the U.S. who want to lead change, shape culture and influence organizational strategy. This program goes beyond traditional HR training, focusing on how people, systems and leadership intersect in real workplaces.
Students gain the knowledge and practical skills to partner with executives, guide organizational transformation and create environments where employees and organizations thrive.
Organizational development focused degree
This program doesn’t just cover the basics of HR – it emphasizes organizational development as a core leadership capability. Students learn how to assess organizational health, design and implement change initiatives and apply evidence-based strategies to improve talent management, growth, performance and engagement.
By integrating human resources expertise with organizational development practice, our HROD degree prepares graduates to take a holistic, strategic approach to managing people, processes and culture in complex organizations.
Online MS HROD degree highlights
- Develop in-demand skills in organizational change, talent strategy and workforce development.
- Prepare for advanced HR and organizational leadership roles across corporate, nonprofit, education and public-sector.
- Complete the SHRM-aligned curriculum that supports preparation for SHRM-CP certification.
- Earn 6 hours of academic credit for SHRM, SHRM-CP/SCP or HRCI certification and recertification.
- Build a professional portfolio that demonstrates applied impact and leadership readiness.
- Multiple starts/terms per year keep your career moving forward with the right education, when you’re ready.
- Finish your degree in two years or less with 100% online courses designed for professionals balancing career and life.
- Join synchronous class meetings (optional) where you interact directly, in real time with your peers and faculty
- Skip the GRE – test scores are not required for admission.
Earn credit for HR credentials and certifications!
Our online MS in human resources and organization development program awards 6 credit hours for your verified/documented SHRM (-CP or -SCP) and HRCI certifications! With this credit, you only have 8 courses left to finish your degree.
HROD/SHRM curriculum alignment and exam prep
- The HROD online degree program is officially aligned with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) guidelines and standards. SHRM alignment ensures that the HROD program prepares its students within SHRM’s recommended guidelines for Human Resource education at the graduate level.
- Sit for the SHRM-CP exam: While students will be best-prepared for the SHRM-CP exam after graduating, any student enrolled in our program’s final semester may sit for the exam.
- Military incentive: SHRM offers a discount on the SHRM certification exam for active-duty and reserve members of the military, veterans and military spouses. Funding may be available to cover the costs of the exams, preparation and recertification through your branch's COOL site (view financial assistance qualifications).
"I chose the University of Louisville's MS in human resources and organization development program to help prepare me for an executive-level position. When I applied for the program, I initially thought, 'What can I possibly learn about HR that I have not already experienced in my career?' To my great surprise, I learned that what I do daily is just scratching the surface of what HR professionals can do. This program really gives you the tools you need to gain a seat at any executive table. If you are considering enrolling in this program, I would encourage you to take the leap – you will not be disappointed."
Tommie Fulp
Online MSHROD graduate
Get your online master's in HROD without taking the GRE!
Unlike many graduate programs, the master of science in human resources and organization development at UofL does not require GRE test scores for admission. We believe that relevant work experience, community involvement, strong letters of recommendation and a clear professional goal statement carry more weight than standardized test performance alone. By evaluating applicants based on their demonstrated passion, commitment to human resources and interpersonal skills, we aim to build a diverse MS HROD cohort poised to drive organizational effectiveness.
Start your educational journey today and prepare to step up into leadership roles that share people, culture and change!
How to apply to UofL’s online MSHROD degree
Check out typical application deadlines for the online MS in human resources and organization development degree program at UofL and prepare your application packet according to the requirements outlined below.
Application deadlines
| Preferred Deadline | Start Date | Term |
|---|---|---|
| August 1 | Fall I | August |
| September | Fall II | Late September/October |
| December 1 | Spring I | January |
| February | Spring II | Late February/March |
| May 1 | Summer | Late May/June |
Note: We admit students on a rolling basis. The published deadlines help you complete the application process on time, be notified of acceptance and enroll before the term begins. Applications submitted after the deadline will be considered only for the next term. For example, applications submitted after Dec. 10, will be considered for our spring II term. We recommend you work on and submit your complete application well in advance of the published deadline, as obtaining transcripts and other materials may take more time.
Steps to apply for the online MS HROD
- Start your application for graduate admission
- Submit $65 non-refundable application fee
- Upload required materials*
- Request official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities. Transcripts are only accepted directly from the institution(s) by email: gradadm@louisville.edu (recommended) or mail: University of Louisville, Graduate School, 2211 S. Brook St., Louisville, KY 40292.
- Create a financial plan
*Required application packet materials are included in the HROD Application Checklist [PDF]
What are admissions requirements for the online MS in human resources and organization development?
To be considered for admission, applicants must have:
- A bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution
- A minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale (cumulative GPAs ranging from 2.5 to 2.75 will be considered for conditional admission on a case-by-case basis)
- A 1-2 page, single-spaced goal statement that describes your interest in the MS HROD program; candidates should expand upon their personal and professional goals and alignment to the program and professional experiences and communicate your commitment to graduate education
- Two letters of recommendation from individuals who can speak to the applicant’s academic and professional capabilities
- A current resume
*Your application portal:
Once you have started the graduate application, you can check the status and review any additional checklist to-do items. Log in to your application using the email address you used to apply for admission and your password. Your checklist items may include additional materials or documentation that facilitate a smooth admissions process. You will also have access to important contact information and next steps after an admissions decision is made.
Online MS HROD for international applicants
If you live outside of the U.S. and intend to complete an online academic program at UofL from your home country, be sure to view special requirements for international students.
- International students will not be issued a U.S. visa since there are no campus attendance requirements. All courses in the program are taught 100% online, allowing you to attain the entire degree from the comfort of your home and at any time convenient for you, regardless of your current location, anywhere in the world.
For more information on the application and admission process, please contact our enrollment counselor through an information request.
Your professional and academic experience matters
Eligible transfer credit for prior education, SHRM certification or military training may help reduce time to degree and maximize the value of your investment. These opportunities recognize your experience and help you move your career forward faster.
Get MS HROD credit for previous education
If you have received graduate credit from another institution, you may qualify to transfer up to 6 credits, if directly equivalent to a course or courses in the program. Approval must be granted by the program director.
Please see UofL’s Graduate School Transfer of Credit Policy for more information.
Get MS HROD credit for professional development
Some students enrolled in the MS in human resources and organization development program may qualify for additional transfer credit opportunities. SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP certified members can receive 6 credit hours toward their MSHROD online degree.
How to apply for SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP credit transfer
Students who hold a SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP certification may also transfer credit hours to the University of Louisville.
Eligibility:
- You must complete one semester of coursework at UofL before your SHRM credits can be transferred.
- SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP credits may only be applied to LEAD 605 and LEAD 611.
Steps to apply:
- After your first semester at UofL: email a copy of your SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP Certificate and the completed 1059 Form to your UofL academic advisor
- Advisor submission: Your advisor will help you apply for credit transfer by completing a transfer request form and sending all required forms to the Graduate School office on your behalf
- Confirm your credits: At the beginning of your third semester, check your transcript to ensure the credits have been applied. If the transfer credits do not appear, contact the CEHD Graduate Success Office to request a status update.
Get HS HROD credit for military education
Graduates of the U.S. Army Adjutant General Captains Career Course (AGCCC) between October 1, 2017 and present date can be awarded 6 credits (2 courses) toward the online HROD master's degree at UofL.
How to apply for AGCCC credit transfer
Students who have completed the AGCCC program may transfer credit hours to the University of Louisville. Please follow these steps carefully.
Eligibility:
- You must complete one semester of coursework at UofL before your AGCCC credits can be transferred.
- AGCCC credits may only be applied to LEAD 605 and LEAD 611.
Steps to apply:
- After your first semester: email a copy of your AGCCC Certificate of Completion and a completed 1059 Form to your UofL academic advisor
- Advisor submission: Your advisor will help you apply for transfer credit by completing a transfer request form and sending all required forms to the Graduate School office on your behalf
- Confirm your credits: Prior to your final semester, check your transcript to ensure the credits have been applied. If the transferred credits do not appear, contact the CEHD Graduate Success Office to request a status update.
For more information regarding credit award or transfer, please contact our online learning enrollment specialists through an information request.
Credit transfer FAQs
When can I apply to transfer my credits?
You can apply after you complete your first semester at UofL. The process begins in your second semester.
Which courses can my credits apply to?
Only LEAD 605 and LEAD 611. No other courses are eligible.
How do I know if my credits transferred?
Check your transcript in your third semester. If the credits aren’t listed, contact the CEHD Graduate Success Office for a status update.
Do I need to pay an extra fee for transferring credit?
No. There is no additional cost for transferring SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP or AGCCC credits.
Who do I send my documents to?
Send documents to your UofL academic advisor, who will complete a transfer request form and submit everything to the Graduate School on your behalf.
What documents do I need to submit?
- SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP: Certificate Documentation + 1059 Form
- AGCCC: Certificate of Completion + 1059 Form
Ready to advance your HR and organization development education and career? Let's get you started today!
How much it costs to earn an online MS in HROD at UofL
Academic year tuition
$850 per credit hour
$250 per credit hour active-duty tuition rate
This program is a Title IV federal financial aid eligible program. Tuition rate does not include costs associated with a specific course or program, such as textbooks.
Please note that other fees apply – check our tuition page for all applicable costs.
Tuition, fees and charges are subject to change and effective on the date enacted. For additional information on educational expenses and the cost of attendance, please visit the Student Financial Aid Office website.
Does your employer offer tuition reimbursement?
Many employers have programs available to assist their employees financially in their educational pursuits. Do not miss out on any potential opportunities. Reach out to your organization’s HR department to learn about available options.
What you learn in the online MS in human resources and organization development
Online courses
The online MS HROD program is a 30-credit-hour program that requires 18 credit hours in core courses and 12 credit hours in electives covering specialized topics including talent acquisition and management, methods of facilitation and e-learning design and development. Courses are 100% online, asynchronous and delivered in 8-week terms. Options to join synchronous class meetings are also available.
To see all available online courses and degree requirements, please visit UofL's Academic Catalog page (select Degree Requirements tab).
Our courses are designed to develop you as a strategic HR and organizational leader who can drive meaningful change. You can gain advanced capabilities in leadership, strategic human resources, organizational analysis, learning and development and change management, with an emphasis on evidence-based decision-making and real-world application.
Through applied coursework and an integrative capstone experience, as a graduate, you will have the confidence and expertise to assess organizational challenges, design effective interventions and lead people and culture at a strategic level.
The MSHROD online program is designed around research-based competencies from the Association for Talent Development (ATD), International Society for Performance Improvement (ISPI) and the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).
Take the leap and prepare to lead with intention and purpose.
Start working on your application today and feel free to connect with us anytime if you have questions or need further guidance.
What can I do with a master's in human resources and organization development?
The essential knowledge, skills and credentials earned from a master’s in human resources equips you to advance your career and become an effective leader in the field. You’ll be prepared to advance your career as well as your potential earnings.
Many graduates go on to land jobs as HR managers, which have a median annual salary of $140,030. The 2024-2034 occupational outlook for HR management positions is expected to grow 5% nationwide, which is faster than the average national occupation growth rate (bls.gov). A wider array of opportunities may be available based on your current or future organizational needs, industry, type of role and other credentials.
Earning a master's in HR online can also boost your resume within a pool of candidates and set you up for long-term success by opening up future opportunities for continued career growth.
What jobs are available with an online human resources graduate degree?
Organizations across a variety of industries have a need for human resource professionals to effectively implement talent acquisition, guide continuously evolving workplace standards and more. Graduates pursue and may assume roles as:
- Chief human resources officer
- Principal organization development consultant
- Organizational development consultant
- Chief operations and people officer
- Chief strategy and people officer
- Learning and development director
- Talent acquisition vice president
- Talent acquisition director
- Human resources director
- Workforce development consultant
- Employee relations manager
- Training and corporate learning director
"The University of Louisville’s online MS HROD program was perfect for me. My future or long-range goal is to become a VP of talent. I have over seven years of experience in talent acquisition and about three and a half years of DEI experience. I wanted to broaden that more into the organization development space and consulting within the HR space and those programs within the MSHROD has all of that."
Raphael Garcia
MS HROD Graduate
Start your HROD education advancement journey today!
What your support network looks like
Success in a graduate program requires more than a strong network – it requires the right support. From application through graduation, online MS HROD students are backed by a knowledgeable team that understands the demands of working professionals. Enrollment counselors, academic advisors, program leadership staff and faculty collaborate to provide clear guidance, timely support and practical insight so you can stay focused, confident and on track throughout your degree.
| Name | Title | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
Image 
Jennifer Ferguson | Online Enrollment Counselor | online@louisville.edu | 800.871.8635 |
Image 
Sarah Schuble | Director of Graduate Student Success | sarah.schuble@louisville.edu | 502.852.1462 |
Image 
Lynda Byrd-Poller, Ed.D. | Program Director | Lynda.byrd-poller@louisville.edu | 502.852.6075 |
Whether you need more info or are ready to apply and need further guidance, reach out to us – we are here for you!
What else should you know?
The questions and answers below help you learn more about our program and how to succeed as an online student at UofL and beyond.
What are the benefits of online learning?
The biggest benefit of online learning is that you can work to earn your degree from your own home while raising a family, working full-time or experiencing particular life circumstances that make commuting to campus difficult or impossible.
How is the online program different than the one on-campus?
At UofL you are taught by the same world-class faculty as our on-campus students. You read the same books, do many of the same assignments and earn the same degrees. The biggest difference is that you are able to do it in a way best fits your lifestyle.
What are optional synchronous meetings?
Students may join 3-4 optional synchronous meetings, which are offered and led by faculty during the 8-week period. In these meetings, students may learn more about topics in the HR field, receive additional information about the program and connect with fellow online students and faculty, in addition to other topics of discussion.
I am on active duty. Can I take online classes at UofL?
Yes! You can take online classes from anywhere in the world, provided you have consistent internet access.
Can I receive credit for graduate courses completed at another institution?
Earned graduate credit may be transferred from accredited institutions that offer advanced degrees. Generally, the maximum number of semester hours transferable, upon request, is six.
Is the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) required for admission?
No, the GRE is not required for admission. We know learning happens along the way and across experiences, roles or responsibilities and we look at each candidate holistically, not as defined by a test score.
What's the difference between an MS and an MA in human resources?
A master of science and master of arts in human resource management provide similar advanced training with some key differences. The main difference between the two degrees is that the MS programs emphasize research and theory while MA programs sometimes focus more on HR history and practical research. With less time on general topics, an MS builds well for those with a business/management background. Ultimately, most employers view the degrees as equal.
How many credits is this online human resources master's degree?
UofL's online MS HROD program consists of 30 credits, 18 of those being core courses and 12 being electives.
What is the SHRM-CP exam?
The SHRM-CP (Society for Human Resource Management-Certified Professional) designation is a special certification which is offered to professionals working in the human resources field. This certification allows HR professionals to advance their careers through demonstrated knowledge of various HR practices, policies, procedures and strategies or initiatives.
Can you please tell me more about the online master's in HROD in Louisville, Kentucky?
While the online human resources program is 100% online, the University of Louisville College of Education & Human Development is located in beautiful Louisville, Kentucky, where southern charm meets urban innovation, creating a vibrant tapestry of culture, culinary delights and friendly faces that beckon you to explore. All online MS HROD students are welcome to visit our wonderful campus at any time to meet with faculty, admissions team, career services, etc. and to participate in the university-wide commencement ceremony.
Is there a recommended course sequence for graduation?
The HROD program is designed to be flexible to meet the needs of busy adults, therefore, we offer several paths based on your professional needs or personal circumstances. Below are suggestions and a few important requirements:
- Students with full-time jobs may take up to two courses per semester
- Students with part-time jobs (or who are not currently working) may take three courses per semester, if desired
- Students desiring an HR emphasis should consider electives LEAD 612 and LEAD 631
- Students desiring a workplace learning emphasis should consider electives LEAD 663 and LEAD 672
- LEAD 617 must be taken in the first semester
- LEAD 616 must be taken in the last semester
Why get a master's degree in human resources?
There are several key reasons to pursue a master's degree in human resources. Graduates of this program can:
- Gain advanced HR knowledge in areas like analytics, training, organization development and more
- Prepare for upper-level leadership roles like chief human resources officer or director of HR
- Stand out when competing for HR manager and specialist jobs
- Increase credibility and strategic influence with an advanced degree
- Learn the latest HR research, frameworks and best practices
- Expand your professional network
- Position yourself for career advancement and higher earning potential
- Fulfill requirements for certain HR certifications like SHRM-SCP
The right graduate HR program provides the skills and credentials to take your career to the next level.
For answers to any other questions you might have, please submit an information request form.
