Learn more about the Human Resources and Employment Relations MA program, including course information and how to apply.
HRER, MA at a Glance
- Location: Indiana and remote (Zoom)
- Schedule: Full- and part-time options, evening classes
- Start terms: Fall, spring, or summer
- Credits: 36 (complete in as little as one year or up to five)
- Program Coordinator: David Piper, dpiper@iup.edu
Assistantships and scholarship opportunities available
Gain Expertise in Employment and Labor Issues
The Master of Arts in Human Resources and Employment Relations is a multidisciplinary program designed to prepare professionals for a career in the field of human resources and employment relations. In this field, job opportunities can be found in the public and private sectors in management, unions, government agencies, hospitality, higher education, and neutral and service organizations.
We are now aligned with the Society for Human Resource Management's "HR Curriculum Guidebook and Templates." Our students are now eligible to apply for the SHRM Certification exam, provided they meet the requirements.
Our program has graduated more than 1,300 employment and labor relations professionals since its inception in 1977. HRER graduates have been hired by many prestigious companies and organizations, including the National Labor Relations Board, Google, Lockheed Martin, the US Office of Personnel Management, SEIU, Alcoa, Respironics, Giant Eagle, APSCUF, Indiana Regional Medical Center, Cleveland Brothers, Latrobe Steel, Washington Gas, Highmark, and Reschini.
The Human Resources and Employment Relations degree is designed to instill in students the skills to analyze performance and make insights into optimizing employee productivity. IUP'sHuman Resources and Employment Relations program trains you to be adept in negotiating and creating guidelines that enforce compliance with various contracts, such as collective bargaining agreements.
Know the Latest Tools, Techniques, and Standards
Our program brings you up-to-date on all the latest tools, techniques, and standards in this field. The curriculum aligns with standards set by the SHRM, allowing you to graduate with knowledge and resources that will help you manage the ever-changing environment of human resources and employment relations.
Applies Concepts to His Work at UPMC
"We always had to be an advocate for both the union and the management in our mock disputes and contract negotiations. I apply that mentality in my interactions with candidates and recommendations for process change."
Ryan Kenney, MA in Employment and Labor Relations, Employment Specialist in Talent Acquisition for the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center
A graduate of this program is able to manage grievances, diffuse conflicts and disagreements in a positive manner, and create a framework and environment to foster positive working relationships between groups.
This program provides a comprehensive education that makes our graduates active participants in organizational strategic planning as well as skilled problem solvers in today's dynamic business environments.
Why the Human Resources and Employment Relations Program at IUP?
- We accept students from all undergraduate backgrounds, whether you'd like to add additional credentials to your resume or make a career change.
- You will work one-on-one with actively engaged professors.
- Our program strikes a perfect balance between theory, history, law, and the practical application of employment, labor relations, and human resources.
- You can select from an array of electives to customize your study and meet your career goals.
- Our program provides you with hands-on practical experience. You can take advantage of workshops, internships, conferences, leadership retreats, and other student activities to broaden your preparation for the field.
- You can earn two master's degrees through our dual enrollment program.