Aspiring to lead and shape organizational strategy through Human Resources in California? Pursuing a Master's degree or an MBA with an HR concentration is a definitive step towards achieving executive-level roles and impactful influence. This page curates a selection of advanced graduate programs—both specialized Master's in Human Resources and HR-focused MBAs—from institutions in and near California. These programs are designed to equip you with advanced theories, strategic frameworks, and leadership competencies essential for navigating the complexities of modern human capital management. Discover the graduate program in California that will transform your HR career path below.
Vanguard University of Southern California Master's Degree in Human Resources Highlights
Comprehensive HR Curriculum: The program likely covers core HR functions such as talent acquisition, compensation and benefits, employee relations, training and development, and HR strategy. Expect coursework in employment law, organizational behavior, and HR analytics.
Focus on Ethical Leadership: Given Vanguard University's Christian background, the program likely integrates ethical leadership principles and values into the curriculum, emphasizing responsible and values-driven HR practices.
Career Advancement Opportunities: Graduates are likely prepared for a variety of HR roles across diverse industries, including HR Manager, HR Business Partner, Compensation and Benefits Specialist, Talent Acquisition Specialist, and Training and Development Manager. The program might provide career counseling and networking opportunities.
Practical Skills Development: The program probably emphasizes hands-on learning through case studies, simulations, and real-world projects. It may offer opportunities to develop skills in HR software and technology.
Potential SHRM Alignment: The curriculum may be aligned with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) Body of Knowledge, potentially preparing students for SHRM certification exams (SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP).
Experienced Faculty: The program would likely be taught by faculty with both academic expertise and practical experience in the HR field.
Location Advantage: Situated in Southern California, Vanguard University provides access to a dynamic business environment, offering potential internship and networking opportunities with local companies.
California Human Resources Master's Degree Program at Vanguard University of Southern California
Touro University Worldwide Master's Degree in Human Resources Highlights
100% online format with no residency required, offering flexibility for working professionals.
Affordable tuition at a nonprofit accredited university.
Accelerated 8-week sessions allowing for faster completion.
Option to finish in one year by taking two courses per term.
No GRE required for admission, simplifying the application process.
Learn from scholar-practitioners with real-world expertise in human capital management.
Offers HR concentrations applicable to current organizational needs, such as Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and Employee Engagement and Total Rewards.
California Human Resources Master's Degree Program at Touro University Worldwide
Address: 10601 Calle Lee #179, Los Alamitos, California 90720
United States University Master's Degree in Human Resources Highlights
Comprehensive Curriculum: Expect a curriculum covering core HR functions such as talent acquisition, compensation and benefits, performance management, employee relations, and HR analytics. The program likely incorporates contemporary HR practices and legal considerations.
Focus on Strategic HR: The program probably emphasizes the strategic role of HR in organizational success, focusing on aligning HR practices with business goals and contributing to overall organizational strategy.
Potential SHRM Alignment: While not explicitly stated, many HR programs align with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) body of knowledge. Look for mentions of SHRM alignment, which can be beneficial for professional certification.
Flexible Learning Options: United States University is known for offering flexible learning options, which suggests the program might be available online, on-campus, or in a hybrid format. Consider flexible scheduling to accommodate working professionals.
Career Advancement: Graduates are typically prepared for roles such as HR Manager, HR Business Partner, Compensation and Benefits Manager, Training and Development Specialist, and Talent Acquisition Specialist. The degree can also serve as a foundation for pursuing senior HR leadership positions.
Emphasis on Ethical Practices: Given the importance of ethics in HR, the program likely includes coursework addressing ethical decision-making, diversity and inclusion, and fair employment practices.
Applied Learning Opportunities: Look for opportunities to apply learned concepts through case studies, simulations, group projects, or internships. These practical experiences can enhance skills and build a professional network.
California Human Resources Master's Degree Program at United States University
Address: 404 Camino del Rio South, Suite 102, San Diego, California 92108
University of Phoenix-California Master's Degree in Human Resources Highlights
Curriculum aligned with SHRM Body of Competency and Knowledge (BoCK): Prepares students for the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP certifications.
Focus on practical application: Incorporates case studies, simulations, and real-world projects to develop applied HR skills.
Emphasis on HR Technology: Addresses the use of HRIS systems, data analytics, and other technologies shaping the HR field.
Concentrations available: Offers specialized tracks like Talent Management, Compensation and Benefits, or HR Analytics (depending on program offerings at the time).
Flexible online format: Caters to working professionals with online courses and flexible scheduling options.
Faculty with industry experience: Instructors are typically HR professionals with practical experience in various industries.
Career-focused development: Provides resources and support for career advancement in human resources, including resume review and networking opportunities.
California Human Resources Master's Degree Program at University of Phoenix-California
Address: 3110 East Guasti Road, Ontario, California 91761
Pepperdine University Master's Degree in Human Resources Highlights
Strategic HR Leadership: Equips graduates to lead teams and navigate organizational change with confidence.
SHRM-Aligned Curriculum: Curriculum is aligned with SHRM requirements.
Flexible Online Format: Offers unparalleled convenience and the ability to learn at your own pace, with live online classes hosted on Zoom.
Experiential Learning: Offers opportunities for experiential-learning immersions in Los Angeles.
Vast Alumni Network: Connects students to a strong network of over 50,000 alumni actively shaping the business world, particularly in Southern California.
Simplified Application Process: Offers a "Fast-Pass" admission with optional components like letters of recommendation and test scores, leading to quicker admission decisions.
California Human Resources Master's Degree Program at Pepperdine University
Address: 24255 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, California 90263
Naval Postgraduate School Master's Degree in Human Resources Highlights
Focus on Public Sector HR: The program likely emphasizes Human Resources management within the context of the Department of Defense and the broader public sector, offering specialized knowledge not typically found in civilian HR programs.
Strategic HR Curriculum: Expect coursework covering strategic human capital planning, talent management, compensation and benefits, labor relations, and HR law specific to government and military settings.
Leadership and Management Emphasis: Given NPS's mission, the program probably incorporates leadership development and managerial skills training relevant to leading teams and organizations within the military.
Faculty Expertise: Instruction likely involves faculty with expertise in public sector HR, organizational behavior, leadership, and national security affairs. Many may have prior military experience.
Research Opportunities: Students might have opportunities to conduct research on relevant HR topics within the defense sector, contributing to the body of knowledge and informing HR practices.
Networking Opportunities: The program offers excellent networking prospects with fellow military officers, government officials, and HR professionals working in the defense industry.
Career Advancement: Graduates are well-positioned for advancement in HR roles within the military branches, DoD civilian agencies, and related government organizations.
California Human Resources Master's Degree Program at Naval Postgraduate School
Address: 1 University Circle, Monterey, California 93943
Ashford University Master's Degree in Human Resources Highlights
Comprehensive Curriculum: Focuses on key HR areas like talent acquisition, compensation and benefits, employee relations, training and development, and HR analytics. You'll likely study organizational behavior, labor law, and strategic HR planning.
Practical Application: Emphasizes practical application of HR principles through case studies, simulations, and potentially real-world projects. Expect to learn how to implement HR strategies effectively.
Leadership Development: Incorporates leadership development training to prepare graduates for HR leadership roles. Modules may cover topics like team building, conflict resolution, and change management.
HR Analytics Focus: Addresses the growing importance of data-driven decision-making in HR. Curriculum includes coursework on HR metrics, data analysis techniques, and the use of technology for HR reporting.
Potential for SHRM Alignment: Curriculum is likely designed to align with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) Body of Competency and Knowledge (BoCK), preparing students for the SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP certification exams.
Career Advancement: Designed to help graduates advance their careers in various HR roles across diverse industries, including HR Manager, HR Business Partner, Training and Development Specialist, Compensation and Benefits Manager, and Talent Acquisition Specialist.
Online Flexibility: As Ashford University (now the University of Arizona Global Campus) is primarily known for its online programs, expect a flexible online learning environment with asynchronous coursework, allowing students to study at their own pace.
California Human Resources Master's Degree Program at Ashford University
Address: 8620 Spectrum Center Boulevard, San Diego, California 92123
California State University-Northridge Master's Degree in Human Resources Highlights
Flexible Scheduling: Designed for working professionals with part-time evening classes, allowing students to balance work and studies.
Customizable Focus: Offers elective courses and specialization options in areas like Entrepreneurship, Management/Human Resources, Marketing, Finance, and Accounting.
Real-World Experience: Culminates in a consulting project for a real-world client, providing practical experience and potential for awards.
Strong Network: Benefit from a large alumni network of over 50,000 and connections to businesses in the Los Angeles area.
AACSB Accreditation: The David Nazarian College of Business and Economics holds AACSB accreditation, representing a high standard in business education.
Diverse Perspectives: Learn alongside students from a wide range of industries and roles, fostering a collaborative and enriching classroom environment.
California Human Resources Master's Degree Program at California State University-Northridge
Address: 18111 Nordhoff St, Northridge, California 91330
