What is the difference between an MBA in human resources and a master of science in human resources?

An MBA with a focus in human resources and a master of science degree in human resources may sound quite similar to the untrained ear. Actually, though, the two are quite different. An MBA with a focus in human resources is a graduate-level business degree earned through a university’s business school. Completion of an MBA requires students to take many generally applicable business courses and, in most cases, a few elective courses. By contrast, a master’s degree in human resources is a graduate-level degree earned through a university’s human resources management department. A master’s program in human resources often has fewer required classes than an MBA does, allowing students to create a more individualized load of courses.

What Is an MBA in Human Resources?

General business-related classes such as finance, economics, marketing, information and decision science, accounting and management form the core of the typical MBA curriculum. This provides MBA graduates with a solid foundation for a future career in any industry. In addition, most MBA programs also provide specialized upper-level elective courses that cover certain subject matter more specifically. Many of these upper-level courses are components of particular concentrations within the program (e.g., finance or human resources). Thus, an MBA allows you to obtain broad knowledge of the business world and, if you so desire, in-depth familiarity with a narrower business-related topic.

What Is a Master of Science in Human Resources? Is It Right for Me?

A master of science in human resources does not provide students with the same amount of general business-related training and knowledge as an MBA does. However, the typical master of science in human resources curriculum allows students more flexibility in choosing the courses they take than they would have in an MBA program. Many MBA programs allow students to take only a handful of elective courses over the course of their four semesters. While concentrations are available in these programs, taking the classes necessary to complete one will often require a student to use up all of her electives. Master of science in human resource programs are often less structured than their MBA counterparts, allowing students to take more electives while earning the degree. This allows you to tailor the program to your particular interests and strengths rather than signing up for classes you are required to complete but in which you have no interest.

How Do I Make a Decision Between the Two?

When choosing between an MBA with a concentration in human resources and a master of science in human resources, you must consider whether you wish to pigeonhole yourself as a human resources professional upon completion of your degree. The master of human resources path is most beneficial if you are completely certain that you want to work in human resources management for the remainder of your career. An MBA with a concentration in human resources is a better choice for you if either you are not planning to spend your entire professional life working in human resources management or you do not have a background in business.