GRADUATE PROGRAMS IN HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

Loading...

                      

BECOME A STRATEGIC HR LEADER

As one of the longest-running graduate Human Resource Development (HRD) programs in the country, the Villanova HRD graduate program shapes global thought leaders who champion inclusive organizations and cultivate meaningful work cultures. Our graduate program prepares students to drive dynamic, innovative approaches to HR, focusing on promoting diversity, equity, and engagement in the workplace. Graduates of our HRD program are equipped to lead and transform HR practices in diverse organizational settings, making a significant impact in the HR field across industries.
 

WHERE CAN AN HRD DEGREE TAKE YOU?

1.9M

Unique job postings from 2010 to 2025  

$121.2k/yr

Median earnings for HR Managers

16.33%

Growth in HR Specialist roles from 2021 to 2023

*According to Lightcast data.

FAST FACTS

 


Four graduate certificates 
 

 


Flexible on campus and online or 100% online learning options

 


No GRE required 
 

 


3,000 Villanova HRD alumni

 


SHRM- & HRCI-certified classes 

 


Eight-week classes to balance work, school, and life 

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.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

female students working together

Gain HR Skills for the Future

Villanova's HRD prepares you to lead the future of work with tech-forward expertise. Build a strong HR foundation with a flexible, established graduate degree from Villanova. Our program offers courses in strategy, analytics, leadership, and organizational development. Designed for working professionals, the 36-credit program is offered fully online or on campus, with flexible 4- and 8-week course formats.

Female students talking outside

Become a Strategic HR Pro

Build leadership skills to guide teams, drive strategy, and grow as an HR professional.

Specialize your skill set with a 15-credit graduate certificate—ideal for professional growth or as a pathway to the full MSHRD degree. All certificates are fully online and designed for working professionals.

Male students in classroom

Build Your HR Network

Connect with a powerful HR network and advance your career with Villanova’s longest-running HRD master’s program. Connect with expert faculty and ambitious professionals like you.

With more than 3,000 HRD graduates, you will be joining a vast alumni network of HR professionals leading human resources in organizations globally.

ATTEND AN INFO SESSION

Join us for a virtual information session!  Learn more about the Villanova Graduate Human Resource Development program and the application process. We will discuss curriculum, ways to specialize the degree, flexibility in scheduling, and the opportunities for growing your career through development and the Villanova HRD Network. We save plenty of time for Q&A. All attendees will receive an application fee waiver code. Space is limited for these events, so register now and we'll send you a web link to participate and reminder messages.

VIEW ALL EVENTS

HEAR FROM OUR GRADUATES

Villanova’s Master’s in Human Resource Development program (HRD) provided the essential foundation for my career transition from operations management to human resources, equipping me with the practical skills and strategic insight needed to thrive in a publicly traded asset management firm. Earning my SHRM certification in addition to a masters degree during the program was a pivotal achievement that deepened my professional credibility and confidence. I deeply valued how Villanova balanced academic excellence with real-world flexibility, allowing me to grow as an HR professional without compromising my work commitments."
 


Alec Michael Tare, SHRM-CP, MS '22

HR Adviser (Generalist) at Invesco LTD.

Throughout the Villanova HRD program, I consistently applied the knowledge and skills acquired from coursework, faculty, peers, and projects to my professional endeavors. The curriculum aligned seamlessly with my career objectives and organizational needs. Most notably, I came to appreciate that the very act of pursuing a graduate degree demonstrated determination, commitment, and leadership—qualities that significantly enhanced my professional brand and accelerated new opportunities beyond my expectations."

 


Ligia Vail, MS '24

Senior Manager, Workforce Planning Tax at Baker Tilly US

READY TO LEVEL UP?

Apply for Fall I

Application Due: August 1

Apply for Fall II

Application Due: October 1