The Master of Science in Human Resource Management (HRM) prepares students to participate in strategic decisions involving their organization’s most important assets: their human resources. Students are equipped with the knowledge and critical skills necessary to achieve organizational goals and excel as an HR leader. The Concentration in Positive Human Resource Development (PHRD) prepares students to create an attractive corporate culture by using the latest positive approaches to facilitating change at the individual as well as organizational level.

The program is offered throughout the academic year. Semesters are divided into two modules, each seven weeks in length. Courses are offered evenings and Saturdays.

Admission Requirements

Applications are accepted throughout the year, although applications received by January 15 receive priority consideration for financial aid for fall admission. Applicants are admitted on the basis of letters of recommendation, a personal statement, GRE or GMAT scores, a résumé, and undergraduate transcripts. A personal interview with the program staff is recommended. While most students are employed in the human resources profession, other qualified students also are accepted.

University policies detailed in the Admission  section of the Bulletin apply.

M.S. Degree Requirements

Coursework. The program requires successful completion of 36 units. The curriculum is divided into two categories: core courses and electives. Students with limited work experience in the human resources profession are required to take the four unit prerequisite course, Principles of Human Resource Management.

Concentration in Positive Human Resource Development

This requires successful completion of 8 units composed of 2 core courses in Positive Human Resource Development (PHRD) and 4 units of Positive Human Resource Development (PHRD) electives.

Students are permitted to count electives taken in the Concentration in Positive Human Resource Development toward elective requirements in the M.S. in Human Resource Management. Students can, therefore, earn the M.S. in Human Resource Management with Concentration in Positive Human Resource Development in as few as 40 units (44 units if pre-requisite is necessary).  

GPA Policy. The University’s policy on satisfactory academic progress  applies. For students who do not maintain the 3.0 grade point average (GPA) requirement, the HRM Program permits enrollment in only one semester of coursework for the student to raise the GPA.

University Policies. University policies detailed in the Academic Policies  section of the Bulletin apply.

Dual Degree Option

As detailed in Enrollment in Multiple Degree Programs  section of the Bulletin, CGU students have the option to work toward two degrees at the same time. Popular combinations for HRM students include pairing with the Master of Arts in Psychology  or the Master of Business Administration  programs. Approved admission to both programs is required.

M.S. in Human Resource Management

Core Courses (32 units)

Electives (4 units)
Choose from among the following:

Concentration in Positive Human Resource Development  

Core Courses (4 units)

Introduction to Positive HR Development
Positive Careers and Coaching

Electives (4 units)
Choose from among the following: