GRADUATE PROGRAMS IN HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT
The Villanova Graduate Program in Human Resource Development (HRD) is committed to its vision of developing global thought-leaders who drive high performing, inclusive organizations and create meaningful work experiences.
It is our mission to develop HR leaders through evidence-based education and applied experiences in functional and strategic human resource management, within dynamic organizational environments. We believe strongly that the people in every organization are the greatest asset of that business and to achieve success, the business must not only leverage but support, motivate, and develop those people. We educate our students on the research that supports these beliefs and provide opportunities for experiences to explore the application of these beliefs and the foundations of strategic human resources in our classrooms.
With more than 3,000 HRD graduates in businesses ranging from healthcare to technology and finance, our students have enjoyed tremendous career success and are now leaders in the field who return to contribute knowledge, guidance and expertise to our students.
Take Classes on Campus or Online!
Convenient as it is affordable, our programs offer both on-campus and online options. At Villanova, we value learning together, that's why even our online courses are synchronous, meaning you will meet live virtually each week with your instructor and classmates. Through our programs, you will build authentic networks that will support you throughout your career.
New Scholarship Opportunity
Villanova’s Graduate HRD Program is offering a $1,000 scholarship for new students starting Fall 2025. Awards are based on financial need and academic merit. To qualify, apply to the MS in HRD by August 5 and enroll in Fall I. Students receiving other Villanova tuition aid or assistantships are not eligible.
EXPLORE OUR PROGRAMS
MSHRD
COMBINED
CERTIFICATES
SHRM PREP
WHY VILLANOVA HRD?
- It is our mission to develop HR leaders through evidence-based education and applied experiences in functional and strategic human resource management within dynamic organizational environments.
- We believe strongly that the people in every organization are the greatest asset of that business and to achieve success, the business must not only leverage but also support, motivate and develop those people.
- Are you looking for training in human resource development? We educate our students on the research that supports these beliefs and provide opportunities for experiences to explore the application of these beliefs and the foundations of strategic hr topics in our classrooms.
- Established in 1980, the Villanova HRD Program is one of the longest-running graduate human resource programs in the country.
- With more than 3,000 HRD graduates, you will be joining a vast alumni network of HR professionals leading human resources in organizations globally.
- Our flexible eight-week class format allows students to balance their academic, professional and personal lives.
- Earn your MSHRD degree in two years or attend part-time and take up to four years for completion.
- All programs are offered on campus or fully online. Our online courses are synchronous, meaning you will meet live virtually each week with your instructor and classmates.
- We do not require the GRE and offer an easy online admission process. You can apply to begin when you are ready, Fall, Spring or Summer.
Tailor the HRD program to fit your career goals by earning a graduate certificate in a concentration area independently or in conjunction with the Master's in Human Resources Development. We offer four certificates to fit your human resource administration interests:
- HR Business Partner
- HR Leadership
- Inclusion & Diversity Strategy
- Organization Development
- Learn from both active practitioners working in the field and research faculty conducting research used in organizations today.
- Our faculty are willing mentors who are invested in your success!
- All classes in the program are SHRM and HRCI certified.
- You can earn recertification credits while taking our classes.
Join Us for a Virtual Information Session
Lean 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. All times Eastern Time.
| Event | Date | Time | Registration Link |
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| Human Resource Development (HRD) | May 14, 2025 | 12 p.m. ET | Register now! | |||||||||||
| Human Resource Development (HRD) | May 14, 2025 | 6 p.m. ET | Register now! |
The HRD Corner Blog
Visit the HRD Corner! We use this blog to share our thoughts on the world of HR, share alumni, student and faculty stories, and to keep you informed about our program and upcoming events throughout the year!
DEADLINES
New courses begin every eight weeks.
Fall II 2024
- Application Due - Oct. 1
- Term Starts - Oct. 21
Spring I 2025
- Application Due: Dec. 1
- Term Starts: Jan. 13
Spring II 2025
- Application Due: Feb. 1
- Term Starts: Mar. 10
Summer I 2025
- Application Due: Apr. 15
- Term Starts: May 12
Summer II 2025
- Application Due: June 1
- Term Starts: June 30
Fall I 2025
- Application with Funding Consideration Due: Mar. 1
- Application Due: Aug. 1
- Term Starts: Aug. 25
Fall II 2025
- Application Due: Oct. 1
- Term Starts: Oct. 20
Questions about your application? Email us!
Register for a virtual information session.
Important Notices for Distance Education Students
The following includes important information for students participating in online courses, online programs and/or on-ground clinicals or practicums while physically located outside of Pennsylvania.
