Is a Master’s in Human Resources Necessary to Advance in the HR Field?

The fastest and most realistic way to advance a career in HR is to earn a Master’s in Human Resources. If you are mapping out the path that you plan to take to enter the ever-changing field of Human Resources, setting aside time to dedicate to attaining a formal degree is extremely important. An undergraduate degree will help you build a foundation of knowledge in Business as it pertains to HR, but a Master’s degree that concentrates in HR is designed to make graduate students experts on a set of mastery level curriculum. If you are wondering just how a Master’s can help you strengthen your resume, read on and discover the benefits.

Employers Are Looking For Master’s Degree Holders Because They Think Outside of the Box

If you do not have connections in the field of HR, having a Master’s degree will help you think outside of the box so that you can attract attention in unique ways. Adding your degree to your resume may generate more attention from recruiters, but you will all attain a special knowledge that helps you think outside of the box when it comes to the tactics that you choose. Master’s degree programs help teach you about real world scenarios that you can use to your advantage during an interview, and this is why employers want HR professionals with a graduate degree.

Meeting Prerequisites to Earn an HR Certification

If your goal is to become a leader within the field of HR, earning a credential from a professional association like the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) will help you get recognized. By earning your certification, you can show employers that you know the standards and that you can meet these standards of practice on a regular basis. Most HR certifications have a Master’s degree requirement, and many also have a professional experience requirement that applicants must satisfy before they can test. If you want to achieve excellence and advance, this is a great option.

Earn a Higher Salary and Advance Your Title

If your biggest concern is your earning potential, salary is yet another reason why you should consider earning your Master’s in Human Resources. HR management professionals earn higher salaries than technicians, and many employers will only hire candidates who have a Master’s degree. If you want to enjoy higher salary ranges and position promotions, having your Master’s can help. Most professionals who took the time to earn a Master’s hold titles that include: Human Resources Manager, HR Director, Training and Development Manager and Benefits Manager. Average salaries for professionals with these titles can range between $86,500 and $96,130 per year.

If you want to become a highly desirable HR professional who has mastery skills in the field of HR, earning a Master’s degree in HR is a great option. Advancement opportunities do depend on your connections and your professional demeanor, but more importantly your educational background and professional experience will be considered. Choose an accredited graduate program that helps you build a network while you build your knowledge. Compare programs, compare schedules and open yourself up to new career opportunities in the process. While it will take a time commitment, the 2 to 3 years you spend studying for a Master’s in Human Resources will pay off.