Brandon Mario D'Souza
Written By - Brandon Mario D'Souza

Check MarkEdited By Darryl S.

Check MarkReview & Contribution By Dr. Peter Cook

Human resources play a crucial role in shaping organizational success by attracting, developing, and retaining top talent. A 1 year online masters in human resources equips professionals with advanced skills in workforce management, organizational strategy, and employment law. Designed for working individuals, accelerated master’s in human resources programs offer a flexible online format, allowing students to earn a graduate degree without career disruption. Coursework explores critical HR functions, including talent acquisition, compensation strategies, diversity initiatives, and leadership development. Many programs align with industry standards, preparing graduates for professional certifications. This degree enhances career prospects, positioning graduates for leadership roles in HR and related fields. In just one year, gain the expertise to navigate evolving workplace challenges and drive meaningful organizational impact.

1 Year Online Masters in Human Resources

Table Of Contents

Southern New Hampshire University

PROGRAM: Best & Affordable Online Masters Programs

Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 3,000 on-campus students and over 60,000 online students, making us one of the fastest-growing universities in the country. Founded in 1932, we’ve been relentlessly reinventing higher education ever since and have gained national recognition for our dedication to helping students transform their lives and the lives of those around them.

We’re proud to provide affordable, accessible education that students can pursue on our 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH, over our innovative online platform or at our regional centers in Manchester, Nashua, Portsmouth and Salem, NH, and Brunswick, ME.

SNHU has earned the GetEducated.com Best Buy and Best of Business – Best Online Degree awards and is consistently ranked as a top Military Friendly® School by G.I Jobs®.

What Are 1 Year Online Masters in Human Resources ?

Here is a list of the 1 year online masters in human resources:

  1. Talent Management
  2. Organizational Development
  3. Employee Relations
  4. Compensation and Benefits
  5. Labor Relations
  6. Training and Development
  7. Occupational safety and health
  8. HR Analytics
  9. Recruitment and Staffing
  10. Performance Management
  11. Employment Law and Compliance
  12. Workforce Planning
  13. Leadership Development
  14. Organizational structure
  15. Learning and development

Universities That Offer 1 Year Online Masters in Human Resources

Several institutions provide accelerated online HR master’s programs, allowing professionals to earn an advanced degree within a shortened timeframe. These programs maintain high academic standards while offering flexibility for those managing work and personal responsibilities. When choosing a program, key considerations include accreditation, course design, faculty credentials, and tuition costs. Universities offering these degrees ensure that students acquire essential HR expertise efficiently, preparing them for leadership positions in corporate, nonprofit, and government organizations. The team at OMC has carefully selected a list of universities that offer accredited 1-year online masters in human resources, helping students advance their careers while balancing professional and personal commitments. Below is a curated list of universities that provide accredited 1-year online  masters in human resources:

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Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is a private institution near Manchester and Hooksett, New Hampshire. Founded in 1932 as a business school, it has grown into one of the nation’s fastest-expanding universities, serving over 170,000 online and 3,000 on-campus students. SNHU offers a variety of programs, including a fast-track one-year online Master’s in Human Resources, emphasizing flexible and career-focused education. The university continues to expand its academic offerings and facilities.
Tuition – $19,467/ year approx
Graduation Rate – 45%

Purdue Global University

Purdue University Global

Purdue University Global is a public online institution within the Purdue University system, focusing on career-oriented education for working adults. Established in 2018 through Purdue’s acquisition of Kaplan University, it offers flexible programs, including a fast-track one-year online Master’s in Human Resources. With a commitment to accessible learning, Purdue Global serves a diverse student population, including military-affiliated learners, and continues to expand its online offerings and support services.
Tuition – $9547/ year approx
Graduation Rate – 48%

Florida International University

Florida International University

Florida International University (FIU) is a public institution in Miami, Florida, established in 1965 and opened to students in 1972. As one of the largest universities in the nation, FIU offers more than 200 programs through its 11 colleges. Known for its strong commitment to career-focused education, FIU provides flexible learning options, including a fast-track one-year online Master’s in Human Resources, serving a diverse and global student population.
Tuition – $9,119/ year approx
Graduation Rate – 74%

University of Southern California Online

University of South California

The University of Southern California (USC) is a private research university in Los Angeles, founded in 1880. It offers diverse undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across multiple schools, including the Dornsife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences. USC’s main campus is in University Park, with additional health sciences and environmental studies centers. It provides a one-year online Master’s in Human Resources, emphasizing leadership and strategic workforce management in a dynamic global market.
Tuition – $66,640/ year approx
Graduation Rate – 92%

Louisiana State University

Louisiana State University

Louisiana State University (LSU), founded in 1860, is a public land-grant research university in Baton Rouge. Louisiana’s flagship institution offers many academic programs across 14 schools and colleges. LSU’s main campus features Italian Renaissance architecture and spans 650 acres along the Mississippi River. It offers a fast-track one-year online Master’s in Human Resources, emphasizing leadership and workforce strategy in evolving business environments.
Tuition – $6,196/ year approx
Graduation Rate – 33%

Northeastern University College of Professional Studies

Northeastern University College of Professional Studies

The Northeastern University College of Professional Studies offers flexible programs for working professionals. With a focus on experiential learning, the college provides a range of undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs, including a fast-track, one-year online Master’s in Human Resources. Students gain practical knowledge applicable to their careers by leveraging industry-aligned coursework and faculty expertise. The college supports lifelong learning and career advancement through innovative, accessible, and professionally focused education.
Tuition – $27,728/ year approx
Graduation Rate – 98%

University of Cincinnati

University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati (UC) is a public research institution in Cincinnati, Ohio, founded in 1819. It enrolls over 53,000 students and operates multiple campuses, including its primary Uptown location. UC consists of 14 colleges offering business, engineering, education, medicine, and more programs. The university pioneered the cooperative education model and provides various online graduate programs, including a fast-track, one-year online master’s in human resources.
Tuition – $13,224/ year approx
Graduation Rate – 72%

Indiana University Southeast

Indiana University Southeast

Indiana University Southeast (IU Southeast) is a public university in New Albany, Indiana, and a regional campus of Indiana University. Established in 1941 as an extension center, it became IU Southeast in 1968. The 180-acre campus offers over 55 degree programs across six schools, including business, nursing, and education. IU Southeast provides flexible learning options, including a fast-track, one-year online master’s in human resources.
Tuition – $7,979/ year approx
Graduation Rate – 33%

Tarleton State University

Tarleton State University

Tarleton State University, a public university in Stephenville, Texas, is part of the Texas A&M University System. Founded in 1899, it offers over 85 undergraduate and 38 graduate programs across eight colleges. The university is known for its applied research initiatives and specialized educational programs. Tarleton provides flexible learning options, including a fast-track, one-year online master’s in human resources, catering to working professionals seeking career advancement.
Tuition – $4,356/ year approx
Graduation Rate – 51%

Saint Joseph’s University

Saint Joseph's University

Saint Joseph’s University (SJU) is a private Jesuit university in Philadelphia and Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Founded in 1851 by the Society of Jesus, it is the seventh-oldest Jesuit university in the U.S. In 2022, SJU merged with the University of the Sciences, expanding its healthcare programs. The university offers nearly 134 undergraduate and 77 graduate programs, including a fast-track one-year online master’s in human resources. SJU emphasizes Jesuit values, including cura personalis and the Magis tradition.
Tuition – $19,786/ year approx
Graduation Rate – 80%

What Exactly Are 1 Year Online Masters in Human Resources Programs?

  • Accelerated Completion – Designed to be finished in 12 months through intensive coursework.
  • Fully Online Delivery – Flexible, remote learning format suited for working professionals.
  • HR-Focused Curriculum – Covers essential topics like talent management, employment law, and organizational behavior.
  • No Thesis Requirement – Often replaced by a capstone project or applied HR coursework.
  • Career Advancement – Prepares graduates for leadership roles in human resources and organizational development.

Advantages and Disadvantages of 1 Year Online Masters in Human Resources

Advantages of 1 Year Online Masters in Human Resources:

  • Faster Career Advancement – Completing the degree in one year allows quicker access to HR leadership roles and career growth opportunities.
  • Flexible Learning – The online format enables working professionals to balance studies with job responsibilities and personal commitments.
  • Cost Efficiency – A shorter duration reduces overall tuition and living expenses compared to traditional two-year master’s programs.
  • Focused Curriculum – Intensive coursework covers key HR topics efficiently, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the field within a shorter timeframe.
  • Industry Alignment – Many programs align with SHRM standards or hold AACSB/ACBSP accreditation, ensuring professional relevance and credibility.

Disadvantages of 1 Year Online Masters in Human Resources:

  • Intensive Workload – A fast-paced structure requires managing multiple assignments, discussions, and exams within a condensed timeframe.
  • Limited Networking – A shorter duration may reduce opportunities for long-term professional relationships with peers and faculty.
  • Fewer Specialization Options – Accelerated programs may offer limited elective courses compared to traditional master’s degrees because of the heavy course load.
  • Less Time for Deep Learning – The condensed schedule might not allow for in-depth exploration of complex HR topics.
  • Potential Employer Perception – Some employers may prefer traditional two-year master’s degrees over accelerated online programs.

Why Opt for 1 Year Online Masters in Human Resources?

Pursuing a one-year online Master’s in Human Resources provides an efficient pathway to advancing expertise while maintaining career and personal responsibilities. This intensive format enables professionals to develop specialized HR competencies, qualify for leadership positions, or transition into new roles without the extended duration of traditional programs. Blending comprehensive coursework with a flexible structure, these programs offer immediate career advantages in talent management, organizational strategy, and workforce development.

Reasons to Opt for  1 Year Online Masters in Human Resources:

  • Accelerated Career Growth – Completing the program in a shorter timeframe allows professionals to qualify for leadership roles or advance within their organization more quickly.
  • Flexible Learning Format – Online coursework enables students to balance education with work and personal responsibilities, making it ideal for busy professionals.
  • Cost and Time Efficiency – A condensed program reduces tuition and related expenses, allowing graduates to enter or return to the workforce sooner.
  • Industry-Relevant Curriculum – Covers essential HR areas like talent management, labor relations, and organizational strategy, ensuring immediate application in professional settings.
  • Competitive Advantage – Earning a master’s degree in one year demonstrates the ability to manage intensive workloads, a valuable skill for HR leadership roles.

The Goal of 1 Year Online Masters in Human Resources

This accelerated program aims to provide professionals with in-depth expertise in human resource management within a condensed timeframe. These programs prepare individuals to navigate workforce challenges, drive organizational success, and implement effective HR strategies. By covering key areas such as talent acquisition, labor relations, and compensation management, graduates are equipped for corporate, nonprofit, and government leadership positions. The rigorous coursework ensures that students develop essential HR competencies while maintaining personal and professional responsibilities.

Accreditation for 1 Year Online Masters in Human Resources

Accreditation ensures that accelerated online HR master’s programs uphold rigorous academic and professional standards. Regional accreditation confirms the overall credibility of the institution. In contrast, program-specific recognition, such as alignment with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) or accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business or ACBSP, evaluates curriculum quality, faculty expertise, and graduate preparedness. These accreditations indicate that the program meets industry benchmarks and equips students with relevant HR competencies. Employers often prioritize candidates with degrees from accredited institutions, making accreditation a key consideration when selecting an online HR program.

Universities are accredited nationally or by one of six regional accrediting agencies:

  • New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
  • Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
  • Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
  • Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
  • Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Additional Resources for Students Looking for 1 Year Online Masters in Human Resources

Students enrolled in a one-year online master’s in human resources can take advantage of various professional associations and industry networks. These organizations provide career development resources, exclusive industry reports, and opportunities for networking with HR professionals. Membership grants access to conferences, certification programs, and specialized training, enhancing workforce management and organizational strategy expertise. Engaging with these communities supports career advancement, keeps professionals informed about evolving HR trends, and fosters valuable connections in the field.

Here are some helpful resources for 1 year online masters in human resources students to explore:

Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM)
The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) is a leading authority on workplace issues, empowering HR professionals and organizations worldwide. With nearly 340,000 members across 180 countries, SHRM drives workplace innovation, advocacy, and professional development. Founded in 1948, it continues to shape the future of work through research, education, and policy influence.

HR.com
HR.com is a leading online community for human resources professionals, offering industry news, certifications, and professional development resources. With a vast network of HR experts, it provides access to webinars, research reports, and training programs. HR.com supports career growth through its certification prep courses, networking opportunities, and insights into evolving HR trends and best practices.

PayrollOrg
PayrollOrg is a leading organization dedicated to advancing payroll professionals through certification, education, and compliance resources. It offers Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) and Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) programs, industry news, and training courses. PayrollOrg also hosts the Payroll Congress, providing networking and learning opportunities. Its resources help payroll professionals stay informed on regulations, taxation, and emerging industry trends.

Association for Talent Development (ATD)
The Association for Talent Development (ATD) supports professionals dedicated to workforce learning and development. With over 30,000 members across 120+ countries, ATD offers industry-leading certifications, global conferences, and organization training solutions. It provides education programs, networking opportunities, and cutting-edge research to enhance employee development. ATD fosters innovation in talent management, leadership, and organizational performance worldwide.

National Human Resources Association (NHRA)
The National Human Resources Association (NHRA) is a professional community dedicated to advancing the HR field. It provides networking, leadership, and development opportunities for professionals at all levels. NHRA offers educational events, career growth resources, and access to industry tools. Through local affiliates and national programs, members enhance expertise, build connections, and drive business success.

Cost of Master’s Degree: Get detailed analyses of the costs associated with obtaining a master’s degree, including tuition, fees, and additional expenses, to plan your finances effectively.

Colleges with Free Laptops: Identify institutions that offer free laptops to their students, ensuring you have the necessary technology to succeed in your online master’s program.

Accreditation Guide: Understanding accreditation is crucial when selecting a master’s program. This guide explains the significance of accreditation, differentiates between regional and national accrediting bodies, and helps you identify reputable institutions.
Online College Courses: Discover the benefits and flexibility of online courses and how to select reputable programs and succeed in a virtual learning environment

FAQs About Online 1 Year Online Masters in Human Resources

What is a 1-year online Master’s in Human Resources?

A 1 year online Master’s in Human Resources is an accelerated graduate program for professionals seeking advanced HR knowledge and leadership skills. Delivered entirely online, it covers key topics like talent management, labor relations, and organizational development, preparing graduates for strategic roles in HR within a condensed timeframe.

How does a 1 year online master’s in human resources program differ from a traditional one?

Is a 1 year online master’s in human resources as credible as a traditional two-year program?

Do I need prior HR experience to apply?

Can I apply with a non-HR bachelor’s degree?

How do students interact with professors and peers?

Do universities offer career services for online students?

Are these programs fully online, or do they require in-person components?

How are exams and assignments administered online in  1-year online master’s in human resources programs?

Are international students eligible for 1-year online master’s in human resources programs?