Aspiring to lead and shape organizational strategy through Human Resources in Virginia? 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 Virginia. 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 Virginia that will transform your HR career path below.
University of Virginia-Main Campus Master's Degree in Human Resources Highlights
Rigorous Curriculum: Expect a challenging curriculum grounded in business principles, covering topics like talent management, compensation and benefits, employee relations, organizational development, and HR analytics. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based decision-making.
Strong Faculty: The program is likely taught by experienced faculty members who are experts in their respective fields, possibly including both academics and seasoned HR practitioners.
Career Opportunities: Graduates are well-prepared for various HR roles across diverse industries, including HR Generalist, HR Business Partner, Talent Acquisition Specialist, Compensation Analyst, Training and Development Manager, and HR Manager. UVA's strong alumni network may provide networking opportunities.
Focus on Leadership: The program likely includes coursework aimed at developing leadership skills, preparing graduates to advance into management positions within HR departments.
Emphasis on Data and Analytics: Given the growing importance of data in HR, the program likely incorporates training in HR analytics, equipping students with the ability to use data to inform HR strategies and decisions.
Location Advantage: Being at the University of Virginia, the program benefits from the university's strong reputation and access to resources, potentially including career services, research opportunities, and networking events.
Ethical Considerations: The curriculum likely addresses the ethical and legal aspects of human resource management, ensuring graduates are prepared to navigate complex ethical dilemmas and comply with relevant regulations.
Virginia Human Resources Master's Degree Program at University of Virginia-Main Campus
Address: 1827 University Avenue, Charlottesville, Virginia 22903-2628
Virginia Commonwealth University Master's Degree in Human Resources Highlights
Comprehensive Curriculum: Expect a curriculum covering core HR functions like talent acquisition, compensation and benefits, employee relations, training and development, and HR analytics. The program likely integrates legal and ethical considerations relevant to HR practices.
Focus on Strategic HR: The program probably emphasizes the strategic role of HR in organizational success, covering topics such as HR strategy development, organizational design, and change management. Students will learn how HR can contribute to achieving business goals.
Emphasis on HR Analytics: Given the increasing importance of data-driven decision-making in HR, the program most likely includes coursework focused on HR analytics. This may involve learning statistical software and applying data to improve HR practices.
Experienced Faculty: The program is likely taught by faculty with a combination of academic credentials and practical experience in the HR field. This provides students with both theoretical knowledge and real-world insights.
Career Opportunities: Graduates of the program can pursue diverse career paths such as HR Generalist, HR Manager, Talent Acquisition Specialist, Compensation Analyst, Training and Development Specialist, and HR Business Partner. Depending on specialization and prior experience, some may move into leadership roles.
Networking Opportunities: The program likely provides networking opportunities with HR professionals through guest speakers, industry events, and alumni connections. This can help students build their professional network and learn about current trends in the field.
Potential for HR Certification Preparation: It is possible the program is aligned with the SHRM Body of Applied Skills and Knowledge (SHRM BASK), which is beneficial for preparing for professional HR certifications like SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP. While direct certification is unlikely guaranteed, the curriculum could be supportive of certification efforts.
Virginia Human Resources Master's Degree Program at Virginia Commonwealth University
Address: 910 W Franklin St, Richmond, Virginia 23284-2512
Regent University Master's Degree in Human Resources Highlights
Gain an edge in the competitive HR field with a Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership (MAOL) with a focus on Human Resource Management.
Learn evidence-based strategies to drive high performance within organizations and among staff.
Benefit from the Executive Mentor Program, providing access to seasoned business professionals for career advice, networking, and professional development.
Explore the National Labor Relations Act and master negotiation techniques to improve organizational effectiveness.
Develop and implement initiatives that align with an organization's vision and mission.
Taught from a Christian perspective, integrating ethics, motivation, and teamwork into HR practices.
No GMAT/GRE requirements for admission to the MAOL program.
Virginia Human Resources Master's Degree Program at Regent University
Address: 1000 Regent University Dr, Virginia Beach, Virginia 23464
Marymount University Master's Degree in Human Resources Highlights
SHRM Alignment: The curriculum is likely aligned with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) guidelines, preparing students for the SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP certification exams.
Comprehensive Curriculum: Students can expect a curriculum covering core HR functions such as talent acquisition, compensation and benefits, employee relations, training and development, and HR analytics.
Focus on Leadership and Strategy: The program probably includes coursework emphasizing strategic HR management, leadership development, and organizational behavior.
Practical Application: The program likely includes experiential learning opportunities such as case studies, simulations, or projects that allow students to apply theoretical concepts to real-world HR challenges.
Networking Opportunities: Being in the DC metro area, Marymount likely leverages its location to provide students with networking opportunities with HR professionals in various industries, including government, non-profit, and private sectors.
Career Advancement Focus: The program likely provides career services and resources to help students advance their careers in HR, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and job placement assistance.
Faculty Expertise: Expect faculty with both academic qualifications and practical experience in HR, bringing real-world insights and expertise to the classroom.
Virginia Human Resources Master's Degree Program at Marymount University
Address: 2807 N Glebe Rd, Arlington, Virginia 22207-4299