Human Resource Management Specialization

Economist Theodore Schultz coined the phrase “human capital” in the 1960s to reflect his theory that an organization’s workforce could be invested in to improve both the organization’s quality and its level of production. The concept, according to Investopedia, “recognizes that not all labor is equal” and “the education, experience, and abilities of employees” has economic value, both for employers and the economy as a whole.

Today, it’s common knowledge that having access to an able, agile workforce and skilled employees with good training, education, and experience can make or break most businesses. In a dynamic global landscape, human resource professionals who are passionate about helping employees and organizations be successful are needed.

If you’re interested in human capital and business success, add a specialization in human resource management to your plan of study. 

Why choose a specialization in human resource management at Marian?

Marian University’s HR management specialization is focused on experiential teaching and learning, leadership development, and sound, ethical decision-making.

In addition to building critical business knowledge and experience, you’ll also develop strong communication, collaboration, problem-solving, and other essential skills thanks to Marian’s strong liberal arts tradition.

Our curriculum includes courses that provide you with insight and resources about HR practices. Among the topics you’ll explore:

• Methods of recruitment, interviewing, and selecting new employees
• Design of compensation and benefits programs, performance management, and career development opportunities
• Alignment of HR initiatives with corporate strategies and policies in global organizations
• Legal and ethical issues related to issues in today’s workplace
• Strategies to retain valuable, productive employees and minimize employee turnover

This specialization is appropriate whether you are interested in HR generalist or specialist roles. You'll be prepared to work as an HR professional in one of many areas in human resources. If you want to focus your efforts on a single subject or function, you’re probably well-suited for a specialist role, whereas if you enjoy more variety and diversity, an HR generalist role may be a better fit.

You will have opportunities to compete in local and regional HR case competitions. Study-abroad courses and opportunities are also available. 

You can also join the university’s Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) student chapter. SHRS provides you with access to digital resources, tools, and information about hot topics in HR like talent acquisition, diversity, inclusion, updates on state and federal employment laws, and more.

What will you study?

Marian University’s 12-credit specialization in HR management is for business majors who want to earn a management degree.

In addition to completing common core of business courses, you’ll complete general education, required, and elective courses that are specific to your chosen business major and the HR specialization. They include:

• MGT 351: Human Resources Management
• MGT 352: Organizational Behavior
• MGT 358: Employment Law
• MGT 361: Talent Management
• MGT 362: Compensation and Benefits
• MGT 363: Global Human Resources

You’ll work closely with your academic advisor to complete required courses and choose elective courses that are a good fit with your personal and professional goals.

All Marian business majors complete at least one internship. With a specialization in HR management, you may also choose complete a second internship before graduation.

What are your career paths?

According to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), HR managers are employed in nearly every industry and business sector.

• They plan, coordinate, manage, and direct HR functions in a variety of workplace settings, overseeing recruiting, interviewing, and hiring.
• They consult with company leaders on strategic planning initiatives and serve as a link between management and employees.
• Some travel to professional events and conferences to recruit job candidates.

The BLS reports the average median pay of an HR manager in 2017 was $110,210 per year. In addition, BLS finds the job outlook is expected to grow by at least nine percent through 2026.

Related career paths and average 2017 incomes include:

• Compensation and benefits managers: $119,120
• Training and development managers: $108,250
• Labor relations specialists: $63,200