GRADUATE PROGRAMS IN HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT
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
MS in Human Resource Development
Build a strong HR foundation with a Master of Science in Human Resource Development (MSHRD) with 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.
Core Areas:
Strategic HR & Leadership
Employment Law & Ethics
Workforce Planning & Analytics
Learning & Development
Organizational Change
Choose electives in areas like Total Rewards, Diversity, and Emotional Intelligence.
Graduate Certificates
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.
Available Certificates:
HR Business Partner: Build expertise in aligning HR strategies with business objectives.
HR Leadership: Prepare for senior HR roles.
Inclusion & Diversity Strategy: Learn to lead impactful DEI initiatives.
Organization Development: Gain tools to lead organizational change, improve performance, and develop talent.
Courses from certificates fully apply toward the MSHRD if you continue.
SHRM Prep
Elevate your professional standing with Villanova University's SHRM Exam Prep course. This comprehensive program prepares you to earn your SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) or Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) designation—credentials recognized and respected across the HR field.
Choose from any of our flexible enrollment options:
- 100% online: 6-week SHRM Exam Prep with a mix of asynchronous online coursework and assessments with weekly live virtual class sessions led by faculty.
- Hybrid: 12-week exam prep with a blend of online and in-person sessions.
- In-person: 7-week fully in-person sessions.
All courses include the SHRM Learning System at no charge.
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.
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?
Application Due: October 1
Term Starts: October 20
Application Due: December 1
Term Starts: January 12