M.S. in Human Resource Management

M.S. in Human Resource Management Program Information

Available online at Franklin University .

The Master of Science in Human Resource Management program prepares graduates to become "strategic partners" to CEOs - or CEOs themselves. Using current research, best practices, and software applications, students will learn how to promote maximum employee performance in any organization. The Master of Science in Human Resource Management program is ideal for working professionals, those wanting to change careers, managers and executives who want to better develop their employees, and anyone involved in assessing and responding to the development needs of employees and their organization.

The Master of Science in Human Resource Management degree examines theory and applications in all levels of organizational strategy, culture, and practice. Topic areas include human resource management roles and contributions in business planning and strategy, job value analyses, alternative work systems, recruitment and selection, fair employment practices, performance appraisal and management, compensation design and management, job evaluation systems, career development, and employee rights. The topics include the study of specific quantitative and qualitative theories and methods used to collect reliable and valid human resource management data for decision purposes.

Statement of Purpose To provide a life-enhancing educational experience that leads to realizing career and personal objectives. This inter-disciplinary program has been developed for working professionals seeking practical engagement with the fields of human resources and business.

Goals of the Master of Science in Human Resource Management Program To combine relevant theory and practice in order for students to: 1. Obtain knowledge applicable to enhancing their current position, next position, and long-term careers 2. Apply skills and aptitudes appropriate to solving business problems and capitalizing on business opportunities 3. Learn to utilize their strengths and pre-dispositions to societal advantage

Curriculum & Course Descriptions

36 Semester Hours
Major Area Required
HRM 701 - Human Resource Management (4)

This course provides a framework for an in-depth understanding of day-to-day, practical approaches/aspects of problems/challenges that impact the human resource management field. Topics include recruiting, hiring, training, retaining, rewarding, and promoting employees; compensation and benefits; employment planning, performance management systems, and succession planning; labor relations; and managing organizational relationships.

HRM 702 - Employee Rights, Responsibilities, Discp (4)

The primary purpose of this course is to introduce the principle theories and practices in the area of employment and workplace law. Topics include the federal and state laws associated with hiring, firing and discipline, medical leave (including FMLA, ADA and worker's compensation), discrimination, harassment, immigration, labor law, unemployment compensation, workplace privacy. Additional topics may include workplace investigations, workplace violence and employment-related legal processes, including EEOC Charges and lawsuits.

HRM 703 - Labor Relations: Process & Law (4)

This course examines employment relations from a historical perspective including the creation and rise of unionism, the evolution of collective bargaining, recent civil rights acts affecting the workplace, and concludes by envisioning what the future may hold regarding employee, employer relations. Topics include the role and responsibilities of the HR manager with regard to employment relations, the legal framework of contract negotiations and administration through the lens of the National Labor Relations act and strategies and tactics used for union avoidance.

HRM 704 - Performance Appraisal Systems (4)

This course provides an in-depth understanding of performance appraisals and related issues. Topics focus on goal-setting, feedback and the rating process.

HRM 705 - Compensation Design & Administration (4)

This course examines compensation and benefits administration and design of compensation systems, job evaluation, internal and external pay equity, wage and salary surveys, pay-for-performance plans and other forms of financial and non-financial incentives. Topics include the pay model, the role of unions, benefit options, pay for performance plans, appraisals, benefit options, and legal issues surrounding wages and benefits in domestic and international settings.

HRM 706 - Organizational Development/Intervention (4)

This course addresses the need for planned change focused on an organization's ability to compete strategically. The framework of consultation as helping organizations reach a level of optimum performance will be applied. Topics addressed include individual, team, and organization-wide interventions that can raise productivity/quality, improve competitiveness, increase skills, morale, and commitment.

HRM 708 - Strategic Human Resource Planning (4)

The course will introduce students to the field of strategic human resource management (SHRM). Current topics in SHRM that have resulted from environmental and organizational challenges, e.g., technology, globalization, legislation, restructuring, work/life balance, changing labor markets, are discussed Emphasis will be placed on problem solving issues, policies, and practices affecting HR specialists, practitioners, and managers.

HRM 709 - International Human Resource Management (4)

This course examines the major factors involved in managing international assignments including strategic selection, training, organizational development, cultural adjustment, repatriation, and immigration.

HRM 710 - Capstone Project (4)

Directed research allows the students an opportunity to conduct an independent research project or examine a specific area of interest under the mentorship of a professor. This course also equips students to conduct the types of research and information-gathering projects that are a significant part of the organizational life of most HR managers and leaders. Students will submit a proposal to formulate and develop a project.