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99 Human Resource Management Dissertation Topics | HRM Ideas

By Liam in Human Resource Management , Management

The blog lists 10 sophisticated HR dissertation topics for undergraduate students. Before the list is presented, the author talks about how undergrads should go about preparing their dissertation title. The author also tells the reader how to customise the titles they like to make their work unique and interesting.

dissertation topics in human resource management

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on Human Resource Management dissertation topics, designed to assist students at the undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral level in crafting their thesis. Embarking on a dissertation journey is an exhilarating venture, where one delves deep into the realms of Human Resource Management, exploring diverse dissertation topics that encompass strategic HRM, personnel management, and organizational behavior. In this curated resource, we present a plethora of stimulating topics to fuel your academic pursuits, offering a wellspring of ideas for your Human Resource Management dissertation. Whether you’re aiming to formulate a captivating research question or seeking inspiration for your thesis, we’ve got you covered with a rich array of engaging and thought-provoking topics to propel your dissertation endeavors.

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List of dissertation topics in human resource management.

The list of project topics for human resource management can be used to carry out further research in the field. Whether you are an undergrad student, pursuing your MBA degree or looking to get a PhD done in HRM, these current research topics in human resource management are based on the evolution and transformation in the field.

A literature review on the role of HR in organizational change and change management.

Studying the importance of individualization in performance management and its implications for the employees’ work-life balance- a UK based investigation.

Exploring the impact of artificial intelligence on HRM practices and job roles.

Assessing the impact of emotional intelligence on leadership effectiveness in HRM.

How do merger and acquisition decisions influence HR practices in large organisations in the UK?

The role of leadership style in employee motivation and job satisfaction within UK SMEs.

Effect of subordinate and peer performance reviews on performance standards: a study of NHS.

Evaluating the effectiveness of online training and development programs in the post-pandemic workplace.

Analysis of factors affecting job stress and its influence on job satisfaction and salesman performance (case study at xyz company).

A comprehensive review of ethical considerations in HR decision-making and practices.

Can poor selection processes be remedied through training and development? A case study of XYZ organization.

HR crisis management in the aftermath of a pandemic: A case study of COVID-19.

The increasing use of data and analytics tools by HR management for strategic management roles- a literature review.

Does training affect growth during recessions? An analysis of British banks in the recent recession.

The influence of cultural diversity on HR policies and practices in UK-based international organizations.

A systematic review of the challenges and opportunities of HRM in the gig economy.

Evaluating the effectiveness of diversity and inclusion initiatives in UK organizations.

A critical review of the impact of globalization on HRM and organizational strategies.

Difficulties in inducting new hires into organizational culture: an overview of workforce induction in Zara.

What is the “employee experience” and how is HR capitalizing on this trend in the UK?

Analysis of the influence of human relations (relationship between humans) and work environment conditions against work ethics and employee performance.

A review of the relationship between HRM and organizational culture in fostering innovation.

What evidence does current literature provide on people analytics in human resources?

Evaluating the 3T Leadership Competency Model in the context of HRM- a review.

How is human resource management designing monetary and non-monetary rewards for employee engagement and motivation?

Examining the role of HR in managing workplace conflicts in UK manufacturing companies.

How does adoption of an agile workforce model provide a competitive edge to different sectors in the UK? Grounded theory research.

Adapting HRM strategies post-COVID-19: Lessons learned and best practices for resilience.

Evaluating the impact of gender pay gap reporting on gender equality initiatives in UK organizations.

HRD achieving professional recognition as a separate entity from hr within the mining environment.

An analysis of HR strategies for talent acquisition and retention in the UK healthcare sector.

How are changes in the concept of overtime and its application influencing the productivity and performance of human resources in developed countries?

Exploring the intersection of human resource management and financial management in organizational sustainability planning.

The role of HR in implementing health and safety measures in the workplace post-COVID-19.

The possibility of hr leading organizational strategy: trends from new tech companies.

The emergence of the concept of cloud computing in the field of HR management- how is it being utilized in British multinationals?

Investigating the relationship between job satisfaction and employee turnover in high-tech industries.

A literature review on the importance of man-machine collaboration and implications for employees’ emotional and professional health.

Analyzing the role of HR in managing expatriate assignments and global talent mobility.

Assessing the effectiveness of UK apprenticeship programs in talent development and retention.

An examination of the appraisal technique HR managers use for upgrading the employees or the redundancies of an employee and Appraisal conducted for the manager. A case study of a XYZ organization.

The role of HR managers in employee participation in workshops, training, and seminars- the case of the UK.

A comprehensive review of talent management practices in global organizations.

How employee performance and development in the banking sector can be enhanced through mentoring in xyz city/ country.

A systematic review of flexible work arrangements and their impact on work-life balance.

Have performance review structures developed over time in the UK? A survey of HR professionals in the UK.

An analysis of inter-generational perspectives on employment opportunities in the UK and its impact on the demographics of the service and manufacturing sectors.

Examining the emergence of HR innovations labs and its importance in innovative organizations through contextual literature.

Is there a ‘human side’ to mergers in business? A literature review.

A comparative analysis of the human resource management ethics and employment in Nigeria and the united kingdom.

Is the use of artificial intelligence to manage employee relations and contracts ethical in the UK? A survey.

Is the concept of fixed jobs fading? An online international survey.

Line manager capabilities – the impact of HRM devolution.

Studying taylor’s model with modern hr theory: proposing a theoretical framework.

Building organizational resilience through HR agility in a post-COVID-19 world.

Examining the relationship between employee engagement and productivity in the UK service sector.

A review of the effectiveness of HR analytics in predicting employee performance and behavior.

Redesigning HR policies and practices to ensure business continuity in a post-pandemic environment.

A comparative study of HR practices in UK public and private sector organizations.

Investigating the role of HR in promoting sustainable business practices among UK firms.

A comparative review of the employee contract law between developed and developing countries.

The roles of HRM in recruitment and selection of staff in mergers and acquisitions in the xyz banking sector.

The role of Brexit in reshaping HR strategies in UK-based multinational corporations.

Optimizing human resource management practices for effective workforce development in construction management projects.

Significance of training in a culturally diverse organization: the case of HSBC UK.

The effect of material benefits on job satisfaction (a study of employees of XYZ company).

The evolution of HR technology adoption in the UK and its influence on organizational performance.

A comprehensive review of diversity and inclusion practices in multinational corporations.

What type of technological applications can provide a competitive edge to human resource management in the UK retail sector?

Does the integrated workforce management system have an advantage to offer micro small and medium businesses in the UK?

A phenomenological study on the importance of psychological contracts in managing employee relations in the UK.

Recruitment and selection services: efficiency and competitive reasons in the outsourcing of HR practices.

A critical review of the challenges and opportunities of managing a multigenerational workforce.

How can employee engagement be prioritized to drive performance in the manufacturing sector in the UK?

An exploration of the current practices in employee performance management in the UK- what has changed in the past few decades?

Hybrid work models and their implications for HRM post-COVID-19.

The importance of streamlining HR operations with AI to improve essential people training in the services sector in the UK- how popular is the practice currently?

Investigating the impact of UK employment law reforms on HR practices.

Investigating the implementation and impact of flexible working arrangements in UK workplaces.

HRM versus unions: effects in the British automobile sector.

The importance of cloud-based apps and SaaS approaches in the field of HR management- a review.

A systematic review of employee engagement theories and their applicability in diverse organizational contexts.

A critical review of performance appraisal systems and their impact on employee performance and satisfaction.

A comparative review of HR practices in family-owned and non-family-owned businesses.

Performance consulting, Human Resource Management, employee relations and the organization- who actually benefits? An investigation across sectors in the UK.

A comparative review of HR outsourcing vs. in-house HR functions in organizational efficiency and effectiveness.

A comparison of laws related to employee management in the United States and the United Kingdom.

A critical review of leadership styles and their influence on employee motivation and performance.

Development of human resources through education and training in improving the performance of civil servants.

The role of HR technology in enabling remote work and collaboration post-COVID-19.

Examining the effectiveness of employee wellness programs in enhancing productivity and job satisfaction.

The impact of remote work on organizational culture and employee engagement post-COVID-19.

Redefining talent management strategies in the post-pandemic era: A focus on employee well-being.

Influence of leadership style, motivation, and work discipline on employee performance at xyz company.

Analyzing the effect of remote work on employee well-being in UK organizations.

The problem of employee motivation in a social life driven by high peer pressure.

Differentiating between psychological and social contracts in HRM- an online survey of inter-generational employees in Europe.

You may change the organisations in the title you pick. Go after a name you can gain access to; you’ll be needing data for your primary findings. It’s okay to change big brand names to smaller firms where you have access.

There you go. Use the list well and let us know if you have any comments or suggestions for our topics related blog posts for the future or looking to get help with dissertation writing , send us an email at [email protected] .

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TOP 20 PHD IN HUMAN RESOURCES PROGRAMS

  • Published October 6, 2018
  • Last Updated October 24, 2024

Find Your Degree!

HRMBA Top Degree Programs

This article features the top 20 Ph.D. Programs in Human Resources.

Human resources is a flexible and lucrative career choice. In this field, graduates can land a position at any degree level. And many jobs in human resources only require a bachelor’s or master’s degree. However, a doctorate in human resources is needed for high-level leadership roles in the field. 

A Ph.D. in human resources typically takes three to five years to complete. And these doctoral programs are often rigorous and competitive. At many colleges, only a handful of applicants are accepted into the Ph.D human resources programs. However, those that do often enjoy full tuition, stipends, and other financial assistance. 

In this post, we’ve listed some of the best doctoral programs for human resources in the nation. Some are highly competitive on-campus doctoral degree programs only available to full-time students. Others offer more flexible human resources online options. If you’re considering pursuing a Ph.D. program in human resources, this list of the best doctoral programs has you covered. 

Ph.D. Human Resources Methodology

To identify the top 20 Ph.D. human resources programs, we started with a search on NCES College Navigator. From there, we created a list of colleges offering doctoral programs in human resources.

From our list, we created a rating system (seen below) to select our top 20 Ph.D. in human resources programs. Where there were ties, we favored the doctoral programs with the lower graduate tuition rate. Please note that the tuition rates listed are based on in-state costs per academic year. The costs for non-residents or for online doctorate degree students may differ.

Student-to-Faculty Ratio

  • 15:1 or less= 3 Points
  • Greater than 15:1= 1 Point

Average Graduate Tuition Rate

  • Less than $15,000 per year= 5 Points
  • Between $15,000 and $20,000 per year= 3 Point
  • More than $20,000 per year= 1 Point

Overall Graduation Rate

  • Greater than 80%= 3 Point
  • 80% or Less= 1 Point

Below are 20 schools that offer the best human resources doctoral programs:

Summary of Top 10 Ph.D. Human Resource Programs:

Ranking the top 20 phd programs in human resources, #20 – regent u n iversity – virginia beach, virginia.

Regent University - Human Resources PHD

Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership

Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $15,590

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Doctorate in Human Resources Score: 5

Regent University offers a Human Resources online online doctorate degree. Students in this doctoral degree program will earn a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership. This human resources program requires a total of 60 credit hours. There are five concentrations to allow students to customize the program to align with their academic goals. They include:

  • Ecclesial Leadership
  • Entrepreneurial Leadership
  • Human Resource Development
  • Individualized Studies
  • Organizational Leadership

The online doctorate degree program prepares students to influence organizations as leaders, scholars, and teachers. And they will focus on both leadership theory and practices. This research-based degree is taught from a Christian worldview. Some of the core courses include:

  • Quantitative Research Methods
  • Qualitative Research Methods
  • Contemporary Perspectives in Organizational Leadership Theory
  • Organizational Theory & Design
  • Group Behavior

To be considered for the doctoral degree, candidates must have a master’s degree in HR or a related field. 

Related: Online Master’s in Human Resources in Virginia

#19 – Cornell University – Ithaca, New York

Cornell University - Human Resources PHD

MS/Ph.D. in Human Resources 

Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $29,500

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Doctorate in Human Resources Score: 7

The next doctoral degree program is through Cornell University’s School of Industrial and Labor Relations. This Master’s Degree to Ph.D. in Human Resources focuses not only on HR but on several related fields. Students in the program will earn both a master’s degree and a doctoral degree in human resources.

The program is designed for close collaboration among faculty and students. Only about 25 students are part of each year’s cohort. And this allows candidates to work on joining publications and advanced research projects. An impressive student to faculty ratio of 9:1 ensures you will get the personalized attention you need. Some of the PhD human resources courses may include:

  • Strategic Human Resource Management
  • Labor Relations Strategy 
  • Navigating Power Relationships
  • Diversity and Cross-Cultural Teams
  • Coaching Skills for Leaders
  • Organizational Behavior: Managing Change
  • Negotiation Skills
  • Agile Project Management Approaches

Candidates admitted to Cornell’s Human Resources Master’s Degree and Ph.D. program can expect full funding and placement support.

#18 – University of Pittsburgh – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

university-of-pittsburgh - Human Resources PHD

Ph.D. in Organizational Behavior & Human Resource Management

For more information: University of Pittsburgh

Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $24,118

The University of Pittsburgh has one of the nation’s best Ph.D. in human resources programs. This OBHR program focuses on contemporary topics in human resource management. And students develop a multidisciplinary understanding of core foundations in the field. Students in this doctoral degree program learn to be effective and foreward-thinking human resources managers.

The program is offered through the Katz Graduate School of Business. And it follows a unique mentorship model. Doctoral students work with faculty to co-author research articles and complete projects. Generally, only two new candidates are accepted each year. This allows doctoral students to receive one-on-one faculty attention. Some of the courses in this human resources management Ph.D. include:

  • Foundations of Organizational Behavior
  • Psychology of Small Groups
  • Analysis of Variance
  • Applied Regression Analysis
  • Work and Organizations
  • Structural Equation Modeling

Most students can complete the doctoral degree program in five years. This includes two years of coursework and comprehensive exams. The final three years involve dissertation research, overview, and defense.

The HR Doctoral Program provides a generous financial aid package. Admitted human resource PhD students receive $27,000 per academic year plus an annual fellowship of $10,000.

Related: Online Master’s in Human Resources in Pennsylvania

#17 – Michigan State University – East Lansing, Michigan

Michigan State University - Human Resources PHD

Ph.D. in Human Resources and Labor Relations

For more information: Michigan State University

Average Graduation Tuition Rate: $19,714

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Michigan State University features a Ph.D. in human resource management. This rigorous program develops professional HR and labor relation scholars. And candidates learn the skills needed to become high-level human resources managers. Students will be part of a vibrant culture of faculty and peers. And together, they will work to conduct meaningful research. There are four major components of the curriculum. They include:

  • Required plus elective coursework
  • An independent research paper
  • A comprehensive exam
  • A dissertation

Doctoral students will need a minimum of 60-semester credits to graduate. However, some transfer credits may be approved on a case-by-case basis. Admission is competitive, with a limited number of prospective students admitted each year. However, those that are accepted receive full funding. This includes tuition, health insurance, and research support. The program is strictly full-time, so it represents a significant commitment.

#16 – University of Minnesota – Minneapolis, Minnesota

University of Minnesota - Human Resources PHD

Ph.D. in OLPD Human Resource Development

For more information: University of Minnesota

Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $17,844

U of M offers a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership, Policy, and Development. This human development track prepares students for a wide range of career opportunities. Possible future roles include:

  • Faculty at a university or college
  • Executive consultant or coach
  • Director of organization development and learning
  • Director of organizational effectiveness

This 72-credit doctoral degree program can be completed in three to five years of full-time study. New students are admitted in the fall semester. Forty-eight hours of HRD coursework plus 24 thesis credits are required. The work includes the following:

  • Departmental core courses
  • Professional socialization seminar
  • Doctoral research seminar
  • Research courses (including qualitative and quantitative courses)
  • Specialization courses

To apply, students must have a master’s degree in HR or a related field. Financial assistance options are available for Ph.D. students. They include federal financial aid, loans, grants, fellowships, and assistantships. 

#15 – Sullivan University – Louisville, Kentucky

Sullivan University - Human Resources PHD

Ph.D. in Management – Human Resource Leadership

Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $15,840

Sullivan University offers a Human Resources Online PhD. in Management. This doctoral degree is designed to prepare candidates for leadership roles in their organizations. Students will focus on both research and practical skills. And they can customize the online doctorate degree with one of four concentrations:

  • Strategic Management
  • Conflict Management
  • Human Resource Leadership
  • Information Technology Management

For the Human Resource Leadership concentration, students will take core management courses. Plus, they will take classes related to concentration. Some courses for this human resources online degree include:

  • Organizations and External Environments 
  • Human Capital Management 
  • Managing Innovation and Change in Organizations
  • Workforce Analytics and Technology 

The impressive student to faculty ratio of 9:1 ensures all candidates receive personalized instruction. In addition, many students partner with faculty on research, writing, and presentation projects. Sullivan also encourages a cohort model for this online doctorate degree. This allows candidates to develop connections among fellow students, instructors, and other HR professionals.

This online human resources doctorate program is highly flexible. No on-campus residencies are required. And students can complete the program full or part-time.

#14 – University of Illinois at Chicago – Chicago, Illinois

 University of Illinois at Chicago - Human Resources PHD

Ph.D. in Business Administration: Human Resource Management

For more information: University of Illinois at Chicago

Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $13,927

UIC offers a Ph.D. in Business Administration with an HRM Emphasis. Students in the program will explore a variety of topics related to HR. They will also gain professional research skills. The doctorate in human resources program is offered to full-time students only. And it requires a four to five-year commitment. Human resources students are required to take seminars in:

  • Human Resources
  • Organizational Development
  • Research Methods
  • Education Psychology
  • Electives 

Admission to the HR business administration program is highly competitive. As a result, only a few new students are admitted each year. This maintains high student-faculty interaction. Students work with peers and faculty on several research projects throughout the program. And almost all students graduate having their research work published in peer-reviewed journals.

#13 – Bellevue University – Bellevue, Nebraska

 Bellevue University - Human Resources PHD

Ph.D. in Human Capital Management

For more information: Bellevue University

Average Graduation Tuition Rate: $10,980

Bellevue University offers an executive-level Ph.D. in Human Capital Management. This doctoral program approaches HR from a unique angle. Students are taught to treat employees as valuable assets. And they learn how to invest in and serve the workforce to align with business goals. They also gain a psychological understanding of organizational dynamics and leadership. 

A total of 51 credit hours are needed to meet the requirements for this doctoral degree. Students work through the program by completing four learning modules and a dissertation. They will collaborate with expert faculty and peers from all over the country. Some of the courses in this Ph.D. program include:

  • Human Capital Development and Productivity
  • Economics of Human Capital Valuation Issues
  • Human Learning and Decision Making
  • Research in Organizations
  • Introduction to Human Capital Modeling and Research

The dissertation involves an applied research project. And students will use this project to address a real-world problem in an organization. The dissertation Chair must approve the topic and research plan. However, it is generally conducted in an organization to which the student has access. 

Students can complete the doctoral degree program entirely online. Candidates must have at least five years of professional experience. And they will also need to have a master’s degree in HR or a related field. 

#12 – Colorado State University – Denver, Colorado

Colorado State University - Human Resources PHD

Ph.D. in Education and Human Resource Studies

For more information: Colorado State University

Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $10,834

Colorado State University offers a hybrid Ph.D. in Education and HR Studies. Students in this program will complete some classes online. However, they will also need to meet bi-weekly on Saturday mornings. These classes take place at the CSU extended campus in Denver. The program focuses on organizational learning, performance, and change. Candidates will develop skills in research, analysis, decision-making, and more. A few of the courses include:

  • Organizational Learning, Performance, Change
  • Workforce Development
  • Theory and Practice of Change 
  • Scenario Planning in Organizations
  • Social, Cultural, and Political Foundations of the Workplace 

Students work closely with faculty mentors on their coursework. And they will also collaborate with mentors to develop and complete their dissertation research. While some classes are in person, the online portion also facilitates collaboration. Students follow a cohort of about 20 students. And they complete small group activities that are an integral part of the program.

The program is selective, and the school chooses a diverse group of candidates each year. Applicants should have significant work experience in the field. Throughout the program, they will be challenged to present their research at conferences. And they will also be publishing their research in relevant publications. The entire program can be completed in four years or less. 

#11 – Old Dominion University – Norfolk, Virginia

Old Dominion University - Human Resources PHD

Ph.D. Occupational and Technical Studies concentration, Human Resources – Training emphasis

Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $10,207

Old Dominion University offers a unique online Ph.D. in Human Resources. It’s an occupation and technical studies concentration. However, there is a human resources training emphasis. This program prepares students to work as training and development specialists in a number of industries. Several publications have ranked it as one of the Best Online Human Resources doctorate programs. 

The program requires a minimum of 60 credit hours. And there are two summer residencies required. These are each two weeks long and take place on the Norfolk campus. However, other than the residencies, no other campus visits are required. Online students will complete core courses, electives, and a dissertation. Some of the courses for this human resources online program include:

  • Trends and Issues of Economic and Workforce Development
  • Principles and Practices of Human Performance Technology
  • Research Design and Analysis
  • Human Performance Assessment
  • Instructional Systems Design

Courses are organized into online learning modules. Each has a defined learning objective and must be completed on time. However, there is still a lot of flexibility with this online human resources program. Candidates can complete some classes on their own time. And other classes will meet at specified times online. You can log in from anywhere with a high-speed internet connection. 

See Also: 5 Careers for a Human Resources PhD Graduate

#10 – University of Southern Mississippi – Hattiesburg, Mississippi

University of Southern Mississippi - Human Resources PHD

Doctor of Philosophy in Human Capital Development

Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $9,094

The University of Southern Mississippi offers a Ph.D. in Human Capital Development. This internationally-recognized program provides a think-tank environment. And it prepares candidates to work across a range of industries. This is one of the most affordable PhD programs on our list.

Students interact with faculty who bring real-world instruction into the classroom. Plus, all candidates gain a thorough understanding of topics such as:

  • Organizational Culture
  • Performance Improvement
  • Change Leadership
  • Human Capital Analytics
  • Strategic Planning

The program is not a fully online human resources degree. Instead, it is offered in a hybrid format. It combines on-campus learning with online instruction. A minimum of 54 graduate hours are required to complete the program. Some of the courses include:

  • Workforce Development Models 
  • Change Leadership in Human Capital Development 
  • Advanced Workforce Analysis 
  • Design & Development for Performance Improvement
  • Research in Human Capital Development 
  • Emerging Technologies for Human Capital Development 

The program is offered through the School of Leadership. Federal financial aid is available. However, students should also consider research or teaching assistantships. The university has 900 assistantships available in all areas. Assistants receive tuition waivers and stipends to help cover the costs of their education and research. 

Related: Online Master’s in Human Resources in Mississippi

#9 – University of Texas at Tyler – Tyler, Texas

 University of Texas at Tyler  - Human Resources PHD

Ph.D. in Human Resource Development

Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $6,264

The University of Texas at Tyler offers a Ph.D. in HR Development. This 60-credit-hour program is designed to help candidates advance the HR profession. And it teaches strong leadership skills for those pursuing government, industry, and education roles. This is a partially online human resources program that requires only five campus visits per semester. The rest of the program can be completed online. Students will conduct research in HR practice and theory. And they will work with faculty and cohorts on various projects. 

The program is offered through the Soules College of Business. To be considered, students must have a master’s in HR or a related field. They must also have a 3.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) on their previous coursework. Admission takes place in the fall of each year. Some of the courses in the online human resources program include:

  • Leadership Theory and Practice
  • Talent Management and Development
  • Foundations of Qualitative Research
  • Proposal Development
  • Organizational Consulting
  • Organizational Intervention Approaches

Candidates will take a Proficiency Examination after completing all coursework. They will then complete a dissertation of original research. This requires a minimum of 12 credits. Students have five years to complete the program after being admitted as candidates. Federal Financial aid and other financial support is available for this PhD program. However, at under $6,300 per academic year, it is one of the most affordable PhD programs on our list.

#8 – Rutgers University – New Brunswick, New Jersey

Rutgers University - Human Resources PHD

Ph.D. in Industrial Relations & Human Resources

For more information: Rutgers University

Average Graduation Tuition Rate: $18,180

Doctorate in Human Resources Score: 9

Rutgers University has an excellent HR doctorate program. It is offered through the School of Management and Labor Relations. Students in the program graduate with a Ph.D. in Industrial Relations and Human Resources (IRHR). And this program qualifies graduates for roles in research or academia. Students will work closely with leading scholars to develop their skills. There are two primary areas of focus:

  • Human Resource Management
  • Labor, Work, and Society

Students may also pursue an optional sociology concentration. 

This is a full-time on-campus program. And it includes coursework and an apprenticeship component. Students will conduct research side by side with peers and faculty. And this requires a significant time commitment. However, most students can complete the degree in about five years. Some of the courses include:

  • Human Resources: Micro Foundations
  • Organization Theory
  • Multilevel Theory and Research 
  • Global Human Resource Management
  • Knowledge Management
  • Corporate Governance

Candidates are expected to be involved in research throughout the program. Each student is assigned a research advisor who will provide annual assessments. 

#7 – Johnson & Wales University – Providence, Rhode Island

Johnson & Wales University - Human Resources PHD

Doctor of Business Administration – Organization Development

Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $14,706

Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education

Johnson & Wales University offers a DBA with a concentration in Organization Development. This program is ideal for those seeking a Ph.D. in human resources online. The degree teaches the research and practical skills needed for high-level leadership roles. Students learn to address complex business challenges and become innovators in their organizations. 

This human resources online program requires no campus visits. Students work with a group of cohorts from different industries. And they will have the opportunity to collaborate on a variety of projects. Cohorts generally include 12 to 18 students. This way, candidates are ensured personalized attention from faculty members. Some of the courses include:

  • Organizational Strategy and Design
  • Innovation and Change
  • Contemporary Leadership Issues
  • Executive Decision-Making
  • Research Design

Online students can complete the degree in three years by following the prescribed sequence. The program culminates in a written dissertation and oral defense. However, the university has a unique lock-step dissertation model. This model is designed to guide students smoothly through the dissertation process. 

All faculty members hold terminal degrees and are human resource professionals in their fields. Candidates will receive ongoing career development assistance from their faculty mentors. And they will establish a network of support that will assist them long after graduation. 

See Also: The Top 10 Best HR MBA Programs

#6 – University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign – Champaign, Illinois

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign - Human Resources PHD

Human Resources Ph.D.

Average Graduation Tuition Rate: $14,635

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers a Ph.D. in human resources. And it is considered one of the top phd programs for HR in the country. This program is excellent for students who want to pursue an academic career in employee relations. New students are accepted into the program each fall. Some of the courses include:

  • Employment Relations Systems
  • Workplace Dispute Resolution
  • Negotiation in Human Resource Decisions
  • Organization Fundamentals for HR
  • Successful Change Management
  • HR Planning and Staffing
  • Diversity Issues in Recruiting and Staffing

This program encompasses the interests and backgrounds of a wide range of individuals. And students will develop collaborative relationships with many of these individuals. These HR professionals include those in industrial relations, human resources, economics, education, and more. 

All doctorate in human resources students are awarded a substantial financial aid package. It includes a tuition waiver, stipend, and research support. Doctoral students may also receive financial support for travel to conferences.

#5 – Ohio State University – Columbus, Ohio

Ohio State University - Human Resources PHD

Ph.D. in Management and Human Resources

For more information: The Ohio State University

Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $11,560

OSU features Management and Human Resources Ph.D. program. It is designed to train students to become top-class researchers in management. In addition, the program offers specializations in the following:

  • Entrepreneurship
  • International Business

Students can expect to study HR from theoretical perspectives. These are rooted in psychology, sociology, and management. The human resources program is designed as a full-time program due to its academic rigor. However, students can complete their degrees in four years. 

The Ph.D. program at OSU has a unique structure. Students will need to complete 80 credit hours, including:

  • 21 required seminars within the department
  • 12 required statistics courses
  • 12 “breadth” courses outside of the department
  • 20 other elective courses
  • 15 dissertation credits

Students will also complete a year-long assistantship and exams in years one and two. In addition, they will complete their dissertations in years three and four, including an oral defense. And candidates will teach one course independently each of those years. 

OSU strives to offer its doctorate in human resource students full tuition support. In addition, most doctoral students can receive a Graduate Assistant (GA) Fellowship. The fellowship covers insurance, tuition, and a monthly stipend. Generally, students with acceptable academic performance can continue receiving support each year. The amount of funding is determined each year by the Department Chair. 

#4 – University of Wisconsin – Madison, Wisconsin

University of Wisconsin - Human Resources PHD

For more information: University of Wisconsin

Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $10,728

The University of Wisconsin-Madison offers a Ph.D. in human resources. It is one of the most affordable PhD programs on our list. This program is ideal for students seeking a career in research and teaching. And students typically achieve placements as assistant professors at leading research universities. Candidates can choose from five key research areas, including:

  • Organizational Development/Behavior
  • Organizational Theory

Candidates need a total of 32 credits to complete the program. And new students begin by taking two years of coursework. The courses are selected with the help of an advisor and Ph.D. coordinator. At the end of the second year, students will take preliminary exams. Following this, they will begin working on their dissertations. 

Some of the coursework may be taken outside of the business school. The courses will depend on the student’s specific research interests. However, they may include coursework in statistics, sociology, psychology, economics, and other areas.

All HR Ph.D. students receive a generous funding package. In addition, top-performing candidates may be considered for additional scholarships and fellowships. In general, most candidates are eligible to receive the funding for five years. 

#3 – Northcentral University – Minneapolis, Minnesota

Northcentral University - Human Resources PHD

Doctor of Philosophy in Human Resource Management

Average Graduation Tuition Rate: $10,260

Northcentral University offers another one of the best HR phd programs in the nation. Human Resources Management Doctorate. This is a research-based degree program. And it is designed for students who want to pursue leadership roles in the public or private sectors. Candidates will develop valuable critical thinking and research skills. And they will be ready to contribute to the body of knowledge in the HR field. 

This human resources management online program is highly flexible. So it is ideal for students who can’t commit to earning their Ph.D. on campus. There are no residencies or campus visits required. There are also no GRE/GMAT requirements. Courses are taught by a 100 percent doctoral faculty. Some of the courses in this 60-hour online human resources program include:

  • Human Resources Management in the 21st Century
  • Compensation and Benefits
  • Labor Relations in Human Resources Management
  • Legal Issues in Human Resources Management
  • Organizational Development in Human Resource Management

Students can complete this online learning program in as little as 38 months. However, Northcentral gives students up to seven years to earn the degree. Northcentral offers six full-tuition scholarships to incoming graduate students. Federal financial aid, grants, and student loans are also available. 

The school offers a unique one-on-one learning model. This ensures that candidates get all the personal support and guidance they need to succeed. Online students have access to excellent resources as well. Some of these include:

  • Virtual Education Support Center
  • Virtual Center for Health and Wellness
  • NCU Online Library 
  • Academic Success Center
  • Dissertation Center
  • Tech Support

#2 – Indiana University – Bloomington, Indiana

 Indiana University - Human Resources PHD

OB and Human Resource Management Ph.D.

For more information: Indiana University

Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $9,909

Our next runner up for the top HR phd programs is at Indiana University. IU offers an Organizational Development and Human Resources Management Ph.D. This doctoral degree requires a full-time commitment, and no part-time students are accepted. The curriculum includes six seminars and various courses in research methodology and statistics. Some of these include:

  • Human Resource (HR) Management
  • Strategic Management 
  • Theoretical Foundations of Strategy

Ph.D. in HR Students also complete three courses in a minor field of their choice. This can include economics, psychology, sociology, or another related area.

Admission to the doctorate in human resources program is competitive. Only a few new prospective students are accepted each year. And at any given time, there are only about 12 students in the program. Most doctoral students are eligible for a range of financial assistance programs. These include fee remissions, research appointments, fellowships, and grants. 

#1 – Purdue University – West Lafayette, Indiana

Purdue University - Human Resources PHD

OB & Human Resources PhD

For more information: Purdue University

Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $9,918

Doctorate in Human Resources Score: 11

Our top phd in human resource management comes from Purdue University. This rigorous PhD HR program is designed for those planning an academic career. Students work closely with faculty to conduct exciting and impactful research in areas like:

  • Workplace Fairness and Justice
  • Leadership and Teams
  • Employer Branding and Recruitment
  • International Human Resources
  • Counterproductive Work Behaviors
  • Workplace Interventions, Training, and Employee Engagement
  • Work, Family, Diversity, and Personal Life
  • Employee Selection

Students in this Ph.D. program will be immersed in hands-on educational experiences. And they will develop one-on-one learning partnerships with some of the top HR professors in the country. Throughout the PhD program, candidates will have many opportunities to develop their skills. There are seminars, presentations, professional conferences, and other experiences. 

The degree takes four to five years to complete. And it is only available on campus. Prospective students must be ready to commit to the doctoral degree program full-time. This includes being on campus during the academic year plus the summers. Admission is competitive. Typically only two to three candidates are admitted each year. However, tuition costs are waived, and all incoming Ph.D. students receive financial support as paid employees. 

This concludes our ranking of the best PhD in human resources programs.

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