Skip to main content

HR Program FAQs

Yes, the employment of human resources, training, and labor relations specialists is expected to grow in the foreseeable future. New jobs will stem from increasing efforts throughout industry to recruit and retain quality employees. Employers are expected to devote greater resources to job-specific training programs in response to the increasing complexity of many jobs, the aging of the work force, and technological advances that can leave employees with obsolete skills.

Earning an M.S. in Human Resources can help you upgrade your HR knowledge and skills and thus improve your current job performance and your chances for being promoted. It can also make you more marketable outside your organization and increase your personal career satisfaction.

Yes, by successfully completing twelve courses online from Western Carolina University, you can earn your master’s degree (M.S.) in human resources completely online over the World Wide Web.

No, but all HR students are expected to have access to an up-to-date computer, a fast Internet connection (e.g., DSL or cable connection), and the Microsoft Office Suite (e.g., Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook). Students should be able to navigate the Web, use MS Office Suite programs, upload and download files, send and receive e-mails with attachments, play streaming media with Windows Media player, zip and unzip files, and maintain a virus-free computer. Students may purchase computers and software through WCU with a student discount.

Part-time students taking two courses per semester (Fall, Spring, Summer) can earn their MSHR degree in as little as two years.

It is possible to transfer in 6 semester hours. The courses must be part of a master's degree program at a fully accredited university. Forms are available from HR Program Resources.

At this time you cannot receive college credit in the HR Program for life experience or SPHR certification. However, individuals with five years of full-time HR work experience and SPHR certification may substitute another HR course for HR 671.

HR degree candidates are not required to write a thesis or complete a comprehensive exam.

Costs vary depending on how many courses you are taking. For additional information about tuition, visit Distance Learning Tuition and Fees.

Yes, online students may secure student loans through WCU's Office of Financial Aid. Review types of aid that are available.

Yes, Western's Career Services Center provides many services and events designed to help graduates secure employment in their chosen fields. MSHR program faculty are also committed to sharing any opportunities that they are made aware of with current students and alumni.

For GRE information or to apply to the program, visit the HR Program webpage. If you have issues with the application process, please call the Graduate School at 1-800-369-9854. The application deadline for fall semester is April 1; the application deadline for spring semester is November 1.

For answers to additional questions you are encouraged to phone (828.227.2493) or email Dr. Siham Lekchiri(slekchiri@wcu.edu) HR Program director and associate professor of human resources.

Office of Web Services