HR Education Designed for Career Growth
We Know HR.
Advance your career in human resources with Villanova University's comprehensive programs, including bachelor's, master's, graduate certificates and professional education courses. From aspiring HR specialists to experienced HR professionals and executives, our flexible offerings—available online, on-campus, or hybrid formats—equip you with the skills to drive organizational success.
Why Should You Choose Villanova University?
A History of Success
Villanova University offers one of the longest-standing graduate human resource programs in the nation. For more than 40 years, Villanova has been a leader in HR education—shaping the field, advancing the conversation and preparing thousands of professionals for success.
True Mentorship
Our HR programs are led by instructors with real-world experience—professionals who have worked or are currently working in the field. Their insights don’t just enhance what you learn in class—they inform the guidance and support they offer. You’ll find them to be engaged mentors who are genuinely invested in your growth and success.
A Thriving Network
Villanova University offers meaningful ways to connect—whether you're learning online or on campus. As a student, you become part of a powerful network that includes engaged alumni, industry partners, student groups and world-class faculty.
Flexible Paths for Growth
No matter where you are in your career, what your HR goals may be, or how your personal life is structured, Villanova University likely has a program that fits your path to HR success. Explore your options below.
EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK
61%
Increase in the number of Human Resources positions over the last 10 years
$136K
Average national salary for Human Resources Manager
92%
Pass rate for students who have completed the SHRM Certification Prep+ course at Villanova, compared to the national passing average of 64%.
According to Lightcast
COLLEGE OF PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
💻 Online/Hybrid
🎓 120 credits
Available as a major or minor within the Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies, the Human Resource Management program prepares students to apply HR principles across organizational settings. The curriculum aligns with the SHRM Curriculum Guidebook, with each course addressing competencies or knowledge areas from the SHRM Body of Competency & Knowledge (SHRM BoCK™).
COLLEGE OF PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
💻Online/Hybrid
🎓 147 credits
Villanova students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in psychology or interdisciplinary studies with a human resources focus can begin earning a Master of Science in Human Resource Development as undergraduates. By combining coursework across both programs, students can complete both degrees in less time and enter the HR field with advanced preparation.
COLLEGE OF LIBERAL ARTS & SCIENCES
💻Online/Hybrid
🎓 36 credits
Earn a Master of Science in Human Resource Development (MSHRD) while learning from experienced HR practitioners. Villanova’s graduate program prepares professionals to become global thought leaders who strengthen organizational performance, advance inclusive workplaces and create more meaningful employee experiences.
COLLEGE OF LIBERAL ARTS & SCIENCES
💻 Online/Hybrid
🎓 15 credits
The MSHRD program offers four concentration certificates, available independently or within the master’s program:
HR Business Partner: Strengthen core HR capabilities.
HR Leadership: Prepare for organizational leadership roles.
Inclusion and Diversity Strategy: Lead strategic inclusion efforts.
Organizational Development: Evaluate effectiveness and guide planned change.
COLLEGE OF PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
💻Online
📅 18 Weeks
Build workforce and employee relations strategies that balance employee and employer needs while supporting an engaged culture. The certificate also helps prepare you for the SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® exam.
COLLEGE OF PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
💻Online
📅 6 Weeks
Prepare for the SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP®) or SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP®) exam using the SHRM Certification Prep System. This online course supports continued human resources career development, with tuition savings available to learners who have completed or purchased Villanova’s full Human Resources Certificate program.
What our students are saying
"When choosing a university for my graduate degree, Villanova immediately stood out as my #1 choice. Its reputation and challenging curriculum immediately appealed to me. As a full-time HR professional in a very demanding job, I also needed an extremely flexible program, so the online option was perfect for me. While I knew the curriculum was strong, what really impressed me was the professionalism of my professors and classmates. I'd recommend Villanova to anyone considering a master's degree."
-- Valoria, MSHRD '17
"Everything that I took away from this course has made me a better HR professional. My professor always made herself available for questions or to discuss a topic in greater detail. She was such a wealth of knowledge and a good mentor in HR."
-- Madison, SHRM Certification Prep+
"I learned invaluable information regarding HR Policy and Employee Rights."
- Judi, Human Resources Student
"As an experienced HR professional of over 20 years, I can say that I have gained important knowledge, frameworks, and skills that I will carry with me throughout the remainder of my career. I would highly recommend Villanova's programs to anyone seeking to make a career pivot, expand their knowledge, or those seeking to earn continuing education credits for professional certifications."
- Roderick, Human Resources Student
Where Can Our HR Programs Take You?
Villanova University’s HR education programs empower students and professionals to excel in the evolving world of human resources. Whether you’re just beginning your journey with a bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, advancing your expertise through a master’s in Human Resource Development or deepening your skill set with a graduate certificate focused on one specialized HR topic, Villanova provides the knowledge and practical experience needed to drive meaningful impact within organizations. These programs equip students with in-demand skills in HR business partnership, HR leadership, diversity and inclusion strategy and organizational development, ensuring they are prepared to lead in today’s dynamic workplace.
Graduates of Villanova’s HR programs find themselves well-positioned for a range of rewarding career opportunities, from HR leadership roles to specialized positions in talent management, employee relations and organizational development. For professionals seeking to validate their expertise, Villanova also offers a SHRM Certification Prep+ course and an HR Certificate Program, helping individuals gain credentials that enhance credibility and career prospects. No matter where you are in your professional journey, our HR programs can help you get where you want to go.
Ready to Advance your HR Career?