WGU Launches HR Management Graduate Degree in Collaboration with SHRM

​We've all heard about the importance of continuously upskilling and reskilling as HR professionals in a constantly changing and ever-more demanding industry. Many HR professionals invest time, energy and financial resources into continuing education, such as certifications like the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP, as well as SHRM specialty credentials and function-specific certifications.

But did you know that HR professionals also are a highly degreed group?

According to SHRM research, 57 percent of SHRM certification applicants hold a postgraduate degree. HR professionals who choose to pursue a master's degree see a compelling return on investment: Going back to school offers the dual benefit of potential professional development credit (PDC) options for those who are already SHRM-certified, as well as expanding opportunities to grow their careers.

Strong industry growth, high earning potential, and the consistent need for strategic HR in all industries and organization types is what led Western Governors University (WGU) to collaborate with SHRM to build a Master of Science in human resource management (MSHRM), designed to align with SHRM curriculum standards and embedded with the SHRM Inclusive Workplace Culture Specialty Credential as the capstone experience.

We consistently hear from HR professionals, current students and alumni that they would like to continue their HR education journey and advance their skills, demonstrate their commitment to learning to their employers and qualify for advanced positions that often require a master's degree.

"At Western Governors University, we understand the importance of continuous learning and upskilling in rapidly evolving fields like HR," said Victor Aluise, Ph.D., vice president and dean of WGU's College of Business. "With a high percentage of HR professionals already holding a postgraduate degree, it is clear that investing in further education is highly valued by employers. Our new Master of Science in Human Resource Management degree provides HR professionals with the opportunity to refresh and expand their skill sets, increase their earning potential, and stand out in a competitive job market. Our unique competency-based learning model enables busy professionals to learn on their own time with great efficiency."

Our new MSHRM degree will launch on Nov. 1 and is composed of courses covering in-demand skills employers are looking for in strategic HR management, business acumen and leadership, with themes of inclusion, equity and diversity; global best practices; and strategic HR threaded throughout the program. Courses include:

• Managing Organizations and Leading People.
• Business Acumen.
• Managing Human Capital.
• Management Communications.
• HR Compliance and Employee Relations.
• Data-Driven Decision Making.
• Talent Acquisition and Development.
• Future-Focused Total Rewards.
• HR Technology and People Analytics.
• Inclusive Workplace Culture Capstone.

Along the way to completing the degree, students will have the opportunity to earn two additional credentials to boost their resume at no additional cost: the WGU certificate in HR Technology and Analytics for Decision Making, and the SHRM Inclusive Workplace Culture Specialty Credential as the capstone experience. For SHRM-certified professionals seeking PDC opportunities, this program may provide dual PDC options with courses completed in your degree as well as PDCs awarded for completing the SHRM Inclusive Workplace Culture Specialty Credential. In addition, if you already have your SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP, you may qualify for transfer credit for one of the courses in the program. WGU also offers a scholarship opportunity to SHRM members, as well as the opportunity to join one of the world's largest SHRM student chapters through our WGU SHRM Virtual Student Chapter with more than 700 members.

"SHRM is proud to partner with WGU to launch its new Master of Science, Human Resource Management degree with the SHRM Inclusive Workplace Culture Specialty Credential anchoring the capstone course," said Liz Lacey, director of educational programs at SHRM. "This degree will prepare current and future professionals and students with the progressive, strategic HR skills needed to increase earning and career potential while positively influencing workplaces and communities rooted in inclusivity and belonging."

Western Governors University is a regionally accredited, competency-based, nonprofit online university dedicated to changing lives for the better through the creation of pathways to success. There has never been a more critical time for HR professionals to shape the world around them by influencing their workplaces for positive change. If you are interested in the new MSHRM degree launching Nov. 1, enrollment is now open. You can learn more and apply by visiting www.wgu.edu/mshrm.

Ashley Dugger, DBA, SHRM-CP, is associate dean and director of the HR management and organizational psychology programs at Western Governors University.