phd hrm salary

TOP 20 PHD IN HUMAN RESOURCES PROGRAMS

• Published October 6, 2018
• Last Updated July 19, 2024

Find Your Degree!

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

• 1-800-NAT-UNIV (628-8648)
• Bachelor of Arts Degree in Early Childhood Education (BAECE)
• Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Development with an Inspired Teaching and Learning Preliminary Multiple Subject Teaching Credential (California)
• Bachelor of Arts in English
• Bachelor of Arts in History
• Master of Arts in Social Emotional Learning
• Master of Education in Inspired Teaching and Learning with a Preliminary Multiple and Single Subject Teaching Credential and Intern Option (CA)
• Master of Arts in Education
• Master of Early Childhood Education
• Education Specialist
• Doctor of Education
• Doctor of Philosophy in Education
• Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
• Ed.D. in Organizational Innovation
• Certificate in Online Teaching (COT) Program
• Online Medical Coding Program
• Building Our Team Through Community Policing
• Inspired Teaching and Learning with a Preliminary Single Subject Teaching Credential
• Inspired Teaching and Learning with a Preliminary Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and Internship Option (California)
• Preliminary Administrative Services Credential (CA Option)
• Preliminary Education Specialist Credential: Mild/Moderate with Internship Option (CA)
• All Teaching & Education
• Associate of Science in Business
• Bachelor of Business Administration
• Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration
• Bachelor of Arts in Management
• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Master of Public Health (MPH)
• Master of Science in Data Science
• Master of Public Administration
• Doctor of Criminal Justice
• Doctor of Philosophy in Organizational Leadership
• Doctor of Business Administration
• Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration
• Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Business
• Post-Master's Certificate in Business
• Graduate Certificate in Banking
• Certificate in Agile Project Management
• All Business & Marketing
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) (California)
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Second Bachelor Degree (California)
• Bachelor of Science in Clinical Laboratory Science
• Bachelor of Science in Public Health
• Master of Science in Nursing
• Master of Science in Health Informatics
• Master of Healthcare Administration
• Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP)
• Doctor of Health Administration
• Doctor of Nursing Practice in Executive Leadership
• LVN to RN 30 Unit Option Certificate
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate
• Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate
• Emergency Medical Technician Certificate
• All Healthcare & Nursing
• Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
• Bachelor of Arts in Integrative Psychology
• Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration
• Bachelor of Arts in Sociology
• Master of Science in Applied Behavioral Analysis Degree
• Master of Arts Degree in Counseling Psychology
• Master of Arts in Consciousness, Psychology, and Transformation
• Doctor of Clinical Psychology (PsyD) Program
• Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy
• Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology
• Doctorate of Marriage and Family Therapy
• Graduate Certificate in Trauma Studies
• Post-Master's Certificate in Psychology
• Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis
• Pupil Personnel Services Credential School Counseling (PPSC)
• University Internship Credential Program for Pupil Personnel Services School Counseling (California Only)
• All Social Sciences & Psychology
• Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
• Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering
• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
• Bachelor of Science in Construction Management
• Master of Science in Cybersecurity
• Master of Science in Computer Science
• Master of Science in Engineering Management
• Doctor of Philosophy in Data Science
• Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science
• Doctor of Philosophy in Technology Management
• Doctor of Philosophy in Cybersecurity
• All Engineering & Technology
• Associate of Arts in General Education
• Bachelor of Arts in Digital Media Design
• Bachelor of Arts in General Studies
• Master of Arts in English
• Master of Arts in Strategic Communication
• Foreign Credential Bridge Program
• All Arts & Humanities
• Graduate Certificate in Forensic and Crime Scene Investigations
• Bachelor of Public Administration
• Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security and Emergency Management
• Minor in Business Law
• Master of Criminal Justice Leadership
• Master of Forensic Sciences
• Master of Science in Homeland Security and Emergency Management
• Doctor of Public Administration
• College of Law and Public Service
• All Criminal Justice & Public Service
• Paralegal Specialist Certificate Corporations
• Paralegal Specialist Certificate Criminal Law
• Paralegal Specialist Certificate Litigation
• Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies
• Bachelor of Arts in Pre-Law Studies
• Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies
• Juris Doctor
• Associate of Science in Human Biology
• Associate of Science in General Education
• Bachelor of Science in Biology
• Bachelor of Science in Mathematics
• All Science & Math
• Program Finder
• Undergraduate Admissions
• Graduate Program Admissions
• Military Admissions
• Early College
• Credential & Certificate Programs
• Transfer Information
• Speak to an Advisor
• How to Pay for College
• Financial Aid
• Scholarships
• Tuition & Fees
• NU offers a variety of scholarships to help students reduce their financial burden while focusing on achieving their goals. Explore Scholarships
• Colleges/Schools
• University Leadership
• Office of the President
• Academies at NU
• Course Catalog
• Accreditation
• Workforce and Community Education
• President’s Circle
• Board of Trustees
• NU Foundation
• Military & Veterans
• Coast Guard
• Space Force
• National Guard & Reservist
• Military Spouses & Dependents
• Military Resources
• NU proudly serves active duty and Veteran students from all branches of the military — at home, on base, and abroad. Military Admissions
• Online Degrees & Programs
• Consumer Information
• Student Login
• Graduation Events
• Student Portal
• Student Bookstore
• Student Resources
• Dissertation Boot Camp
• Show your NU pride and shop our online store for the latest and greatest NU apparel and accessories! Shop Now
• Request Info
• Our Programs

Doctor of Philosophy in Human Resource Management (PhD-HRM)

100% online phd-hrm.

Complete your studies on your own time.

New Start Date Every Monday

Start your first course when it’s convenient for you.

38 Months to your PhD-HRM

Finish your PhD-HRM in just 20 courses.

National and Northcentral have merged, and this program is now offered by NU.  Learn more .

Doctor of Philosophy in Human Resource Management

Enhance global business environments with the 100% online Doctor of Philosophy in Human Resource Management (PhD-HRM) degree program at National University. No GRE/GMAT required. You’ll gain the expert-level knowledge you need to take on leadership positions in the private, public, and non-profit sector. Through this comprehensive doctoral degree, you’ll deepen your understanding of human resource theories and practices, including critical thinking and research skills. 

Advance Your Human Resource Career Completely Online

NU’s PhD-HRM program is centered on the evolution of human resources. You’ll explore extrinsic and intrinsic compensation concepts, how to improve organizational effectiveness, and how to motivate diverse workforces. You’ll also learn how to develop and apply quantitative and qualitative research designs and methodologies. Other focus areas in the PhD in Human Resource Management include working within a unionized environment, legal issues impacting human resources, and how to improve diversity and inclusion. 

NU’s one-to-one learning model will provide you with the guidance, attention, and support you deserve throughout your doctoral education.

The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accredits public and private schools, colleges, and universities in the U.S.

Course Details

• Credit Hours: 60
• Courses: 20
• Estimated Time to Complete: 38 months

The Doctor of Philosophy in Human Resource Management (PhD-HRM) program can be completed in 60 credits. Each foundational course runs 8 weeks, and dissertation courses run 12 weeks.

Course Sequence

This program can be completed with a minimum of 60 credit hours, but may require additional credit hours, depending on the time required to complete the dissertation research. If needed, additional courses will be added to the student degree program in alignment with the SAP and Academic Maximum Time to Completion policies. Students who do not complete their program in accordance with these policies may be dismissed.

Course Name

In this course, you will focus on the development of the human resource function in organizations. From exploring employee recruitment, motivation, performance and various forms of compensation and benefits packages, you will view the human resource function in a strategic role that enhances global business environments.

In this course, you will explore the concepts of extrinsic and intrinsic compensation in the management of today’s diverse and global workforce. The decisions made in these areas, related to compensation and benefits at the Executive and the employee level, can directly impact the strategic nature and direction of the organization.

In this course, you will explore all aspects of labor relations from a human resources perspective. This will include the history, structure, politics, processes, and relationships associated with bargaining units (unions). You will examine how unions can change attitudes and behaviors of both management and employees, as well as the benefits and challenges to working in a human resources position in a unionized environment.

In this course, you will explore how to manage human resources to optimize organizational effectiveness as well as individual outcomes in a global context. You will consider current laws, public policies, recruitment and retention strategies. In addition, you will determine how employees’ concerns and complaints are incorporated into organizational decision-making.

Prerequisites:  *Fundamental requirement in General Management

In this course, you will examine supervisory concepts, laws, regulations and HRM practices used in the 21st Century. You will explore techniques for motivating employees as a supervisor of diverse workforces and evaluate the role of supervisors in organizational planning.

This doctoral course examines the uniqueness of culture and its impact on all areas of organizational operations. This includes such aspects as diversity, global transitioning, accommodations, and cross-national teamwork. The Twenty-First century Human Resources professional must have an open mind and a willingness to suspend judgments, ask questions, and listen to answers.

In this course, you will explore multiple levels of employment, including management, full-time employees, part-time employees, temporary employees, and contracted employees based on the passage and interpretation of laws, whether at the federal, state, or local level. Policies such as employment-at-will, right to work, or termination, and other regulations can change with an act of Congress or a state legislature.

In this course, you will explore how the HRM function creates a more inclusive culture by valuing diversity of its workforce. During the course, you will review organizational decisions on diversity issues in order to learn how to avoid discrimination while improving organizational effectiveness. To gain an awareness of corporate best practices, you will examine HRM’s role in diversity and inclusion cases.

In this course, you will examine how organizational behavior is relevant to HRM. You will explore theories that support and explain causes and outcomes of typical issues in HRM. In addition to individual behaviors in organizations, team dynamics in relation to organizational structures will be discussed in consideration of organizational goals and employee well-being.

In this course, you will explore the strategic role of human resources in organizations. Through an examination of HRM functions, you will determine how these align with the strategic direction of organizations. In addition, you will consider the potential contributions and challenges that HRM might face, especially during organizational change processes. You will then develop HRM initiatives that help achieve organizational goals.

In this course, you will review policy development processes, how these are implemented and the outcomes resulting from policies being deployed. You will consider various forces that affect HR policies including the needs of global environments, organizations, and employees. You will develop policy implementation plans that include the necessary steps, resource allocations, and measurement of outcomes.

In this course, you will engage in the process of scholarly literature reviews and academic writing. With an emphasis on how to (a) conduct effective literature searches, specifically in preparation for the dissertation, (b) develop a plan for writing comprehensive, critical, and synthesized reviews of research literature, and (c) critically review and write about underlying theory/conceptual frameworks, you will develop a foundation for future research. The overarching goal of this course is for you to conduct an exhaustive search of the peer-reviewed research literature in your topic area and identify potential areas of inquiry for your dissertation.

In this course, you will cultivate a statistical mindset through learning and nurturing skills needed to perform and interpret univariate inferential statistics. The course will facilitate building your statistical confidence in assessing and performing statistics. The course will cover univariate parametric and non-parametric statistical tests, interpretation of statistical output, and introduce skills needed to select statistical tests based on quantitative research questions.

During this course, as a scholar-practitioner, you will build the skills essential for designing quantitative studies; analyzing the data collected in these studies, and interpreting the results of data analyses. You will explore designs and statistical techniques to use with their envisioned dissertation research.

During this course, you will examine qualitative methods for studying human behavior including grounded theory, narrative analysis, ethnography, mixed methods, and case studies. You will explore designs and methodologies to use with your envisioned research.

The Pre-Candidacy Prospectus is intended to ensure students have mastered knowledge of their discipline prior to candidacy status and demonstrated the ability to design empirical research as an investigator before moving on to the dissertation research coursework. Students will demonstrate the ability to synthesize empirical, peer-reviewed research to support all assignments in this course. The Pre-Candidacy Prospectus is completed only after all foundation, specialization, and research courses have been completed.

Students in this course will be required to complete Chapter 1 of their dissertation proposal including a review of literature with substantiating evidence of the problem, the research purpose and questions, the intended methodological design and approach, and the significance of the study. A completed, committee approved (against the minimum rubric standards) Chapter 1 is required to pass this course successfully. Students who do not receive approval of Chapter 1 to minimum standards will be able to take up to three supplementary 8-week courses to finalize and gain approval of Chapter .

Students in this course will be required to work on completing Chapters 1-3 of their dissertation proposal and receive committee approval for the Dissertation Proposal (DP) in order to pass the class. Chapter 2 consists of the literature review. Chapter 3 covers the research methodology method and design and to includes population, sample, measurement instruments, data collection and analysis, limitations, and ethical considerations. In this course, a completed, committee-approved Chapters 2 and 3 are required and, by the end of the course, a final approved dissertation proposal (against the minimum rubric standards). Students who do not receive approval of the dissertation proposal will be able to take up to three supplementary 8-week courses to finalize and gain approval of these requirements.

Students in this course will be required to prepare, submit, and obtain approval of their IRB application, collect data, and submit a final study closure form to the IRB. Students still in data collection at the end of the 12-week course will be able to take up to three supplementary 8-week courses to complete data collection and file an IRB study closure form.

In this dissertation course students work on completing Chapters 4 and 5 and the final Dissertation Manuscript. Specifically, students will complete their data analysis, prepare their study results, and present their findings in an Oral Defense and a completed manuscript. A completed, Committee approved (against the minimum rubric standards) Dissertation Manuscript and successful Oral Defense are required to complete the course and graduate. Students who do not receive approval for either or both their Dissertation Manuscript or defense can take up to three supplementary 8-week courses to finalize and gain approval of either or both items as needed.

Degree Requirements

The University may accept a maximum of 12 semester credit hours in transfer toward the doctoral degree for graduate coursework completed at an accredited college or university with a grade of “B” or better. The PHD-HRM degree program in the School of Business has the following graduation requirements:

• A minimum of 48 credit hours of graduate instruction must be completed through NU
• Grade Point Average of 3.0 (letter grade of “B”) or higher
• Satisfactory completion of the PHD-HRM Pre-Candidacy Prospectus
• University Approval of Dissertation Manuscript and Oral Defense completed
• Submission of the approved final dissertation manuscript to the University Registrar, including the original unbound dissertation manuscript and an electronic copy
• Official documents on file for basis of admission: a conferred master’s degree from an accredited academic institution
• Official transcripts on file for all transfer credit hours accepted by the University
• All financial obligations must be met before the student will be issued their diploma and/or degree posted transcript.

Positions  

• Human resource manager or specialist 
• Postsecondary teacher
• Compensation, benefits, and job analysis specialist
• Business partner
• Recruitment/placement specialist
• Human resource employee relations manager
• Business intelligence analyst
• Compensation analyst
• Assistant professor of management (college and university professors, faculty members) 

Work Settings

• Public administration (Federal and State governmental agencies, VA, Forest Service Bureau of Prisons, Environmental Protection Agency, etc.)
• Colleges and Universities seeking academic faculty members
• Professional, scientific, and technical services (Management consulting companies like Deloitte, Accenture, or government contractors offering consulting services) 
• Healthcare (Managed care providers, hospitals, medical facilities, residential care facilities)
• Manufacturing (Aerospace, defense, biotech, pharma, and other large private sector corporations)
• Large retailers like Amazon and Wayfair
• Information Technology
• Finance and insurance

*Positions may require additional experience, training, and other factors beyond completing this degree program. Many roles may also require state licensure, and it is the responsibility of the student to ensure that all licensure requirements are met.

SOURCE: Emsi Labor Analyst- Report. Emsi research company homepage at https://www.economicmodeling.com/company/ (Report viewed: 4/13/2022). 

DISCLAIMER: The data provided is for informational purposes only. Emsi data and analysis utilizes government sources to provide insights on industries, demographics, employers, in-demand skills, and more to align academic programs with labor market opportunities. Cited projections may not reflect local or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth. Current and prospective students should use this data with other available economic data to inform their educational decisions.

DISSERTATION PROCESS

Faculty assist each NU Doctoral candidate to reach this academic goal through a systematic process leading to a high-quality completed dissertation. A PhD-HRM dissertation is a scholarly documentation of research that makes an original contribution to the field of study. This process requires care in choosing a topic, documenting its importance, planning the methodology, and conducting the research. These activities lead smoothly into the writing and oral presentation of the dissertation.

A doctoral candidate must be continuously enrolled throughout the series of dissertation courses. Dissertation courses are automatically scheduled and accepted without a break in scheduling to ensure that students remain in continuous enrollment throughout the dissertation course sequence. If additional time is required to complete any of the dissertation courses, students must re-enroll and pay the tuition for that course. Continuous enrollment will only be permitted when students demonstrate progress toward completing dissertation requirements. The Dissertation Committee determines progress.

Program Learning Outcomes

As a graduate of National University’s Doctor of Philosophy in Human Resource Management (PhD-HRM) program, you’ll be able to:

• Evaluate human resource theories, concepts, and scholarly research
• Recommend best practices in hiring, retaining, supporting, and motivating employees
• Determine the impact of employment laws in domestic and multinational organizations
• Contribute to the body of theory and practice in human resource management

Enrolling in a university is a big decision. That’s why our dedicated admissions team is here to guide you through the admissions process and help you find the right program for you and your career goals.

To that end, we’ve simplified and streamlined our application process, so you can get enrolled in your program right away. Because we accept and review applications year round, you can begin class as soon as next month, depending on your program and location of choice.

Learn more about undergraduate, graduate, military, and international student admissions, plus admissions information for transfer students. You can also learn more about our tuition rates and financial aid opportunities.

To speak with our admissions team, call  (855) 355-6288  or request information and an advisor will contact you shortly. If you’re ready to apply, simply  start your application today

Weekly Course Starts

Finish Your Dissertation!

Dissertation Completion Pathway (DCP) is a 100% online pathway helping students “All But Dissertation” finish their doctoral degree.

• Block transfer of credit from your previous institution
• Flexible monthly start dates
• Highly trained faculty providing feedback each week on your dissertation
• Strategic support and targeted resources to help you finish

Why Choose National University

• Four-Week Courses
• 190+ Degree Programs
• Online or On-Site
• Year-Round Enrollment
• Military Friendly

We’re proud to be a Veteran-founded, San Diego-based nonprofit. Since 1971, our mission has been to provide accessible, achievable higher education to adult learners. Today, we educate students from across the U.S. and around the globe, with over 240,000 alumni worldwide.

“National University has impacted my career. You can immediately apply what you learn in class to your business.”

-Francisco R., Class of 2016

FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE

Frequently Asked Questions

With a PhD in HR, you can pursue various career paths. These include academic positions such as teaching and conducting research in universities, research and development roles in government or private organizations, or leadership roles in HR departments in corporations or non-profit organizations.

Pursuing a PhD in HR depends on your career goals and interests. If you want to become a professor, researcher, or hold high-level positions in HR departments, a PhD from National University can be beneficial. It can also lead to higher salaries and job security.

The Key Grant Scholarship

Do you qualify for a needs-based scholarship? Learn more about the NU Key Grant Scholarship and other scholarship opportunities to unlock the door to your dreams!

Program Disclosure

Successful completion and attainment of National University degrees do not lead to automatic or immediate licensure, employment, or certification in any state/country. The University cannot guarantee that any professional organization or business will accept a graduate’s application to sit for any certification, licensure, or related exam for the purpose of professional certification.

Program availability varies by state. Many disciplines, professions, and jobs require disclosure of an individual’s criminal history, and a variety of states require background checks to apply to, or be eligible for, certain certificates, registrations, and licenses. Existence of a criminal history may also subject an individual to denial of an initial application for a certificate, registration, or license and/or result in the revocation or suspension of an existing certificate, registration, or license. Requirements can vary by state, occupation, and/or licensing authority.

NU graduates will be subject to additional requirements on a program, certification/licensure, employment, and state-by-state basis that can include one or more of the following items: internships, practicum experience, additional coursework, exams, tests, drug testing, earning an additional degree, and/or other training/education requirements.

All prospective students are advised to review employment, certification, and/or licensure requirements in their state, and to contact the certification/licensing body of the state and/or country where they intend to obtain certification/licensure to verify that these courses/programs qualify in that state/country, prior to enrolling. Prospective students are also advised to regularly review the state’s/country’s policies and procedures relating to certification/licensure, as those policies are subject to change.

National University degrees do not guarantee employment or salary of any kind. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to review desired job positions to review degrees, education, and/or training required to apply for desired positions. Prospective students should monitor these positions as requirements, salary, and other relevant factors can change over time.

Search the site

Modal window with site-search and helpful links

Featured Programs

• Business and Management
• Computer Science
• Teaching and Credentials

Helpful Links

• Admissions & Application Information
• Online College Degrees & Programs
• Student Services
• Request Your Transcripts

Terms & Conditions

By submitting your information to National University as my electronic signature and submitting this form by clicking the Request Info button above, I provide my express written consent to representatives of National University and National University affiliates (including City University of Seattle) to contact me about educational opportunities. This includes the use of automated technology, such as an automatic dialing system and pre-recorded or artificial voice messages, text messages, and mail, both electronic and physical, to the phone numbers (including cellular) and e-mail address(es) I have provided. I confirm that the information provided on this form is accurate and complete. I also understand that certain degree programs may not be available in all states. Message and data rates may apply. Message frequency may vary.

I understand that consent is not a condition to purchase any goods, services or property, and that I may withdraw my consent at any time by sending an email to [email protected] . I understand that if I am submitting my personal data from outside of the United States, I am consenting to the transfer of my personal data to, and its storage in, the United States, and I understand that my personal data will be subject to processing in accordance with U.S. laws, unless stated otherwise in our privacy policy . Please review our privacy policy for more details or contact us at [email protected] .

By submitting my information, I acknowledge that I have read and reviewed the Accessibility Statement . 

By submitting my information, I acknowledge that I have read and reviewed the Student Code of Conduct located in the Catalog .

National University

Chat Options

• Massachusetts
• Deluxe Black
• Custom Order
• Create Account
• Shipping & Returns
• Made-to-Order
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service
• Site navigation

Career Opportunities: PhD in Human Resources

Labor Day may signal the end of summer, but PhD students are just as busy as usual. Did you know that human resources (HR) and labor relations specialists are currently in high demand in both industrial and academic institutions? 

Curious what  human resources and labor relations are about? Check out these PhD programs and career opportunities:

PhD programs

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), PhD in Management–Institute for Work and Employment Research  at MIT Sloan School of Management
• University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, PhD in Human Resources and Industrial Relations  at School of Labor and Employment Relations 
• University of California, Berkeley and University of California, Los Angeles, PhD in Social Sciences (multidisciplinary research) at Institute for Research on Labor and Employment ( more info )
• Cornell University, PhD in Human Resource Studies , International and Comparative Labor, Labor Relations, Law, and History, Organizational Behavior, Social Statistics, and Labor Economics at School of Industrial and Labor Relations
• Rutgers University, PhD in Industrial Relations and Human Resources  at School of Management and Labor Relations 
• Michigan State University, PhD in Human Resources and Labor Relations  at School of Human Resources and Labor Relations

PhD Career Opportunities

• If you enjoy teaching, mentoring, and doing research, an academic position at a research university will be perfect for you:
• Salary ranges from $70k to $100k ( more info ), typically including summer salary and travel support
• If you enjoy working with people and are interested in management, consider becoming a HR manager or training and development specialist:
• Salary ranges from $60k to $110k ( more info ), depending on the job title and company
• Top paying metropolitan areas and annual mean wages of HR professionals in 2016 (m ore info ): 
• Newark, NJ and PA: $170,570
• San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA: $164,920
• San Francisco-Redwood City, CA: $162,090
• Top paying non-metropolitan areas and annual mean wages of HR professional in 2016 (m ore info ):
• West Central, NH: $133,450
• Southwest NY: $127,530
• Northern VT: $123,060

With a PhD in HR and Labor Relations, you have options to go into academia or industry and easily earn a six-figure salary. Factors such as your publications, experience, the number of people you manage, and the type of employer can impact your base salary. Salary is simply one of the factors in your career decision, but ultimately you should just follow what you really love to do!

Sources: phdinhr.org , BLS.gov

• Tags: PhD Careers PhD Gown PhD Graduation PhD in Human Resources PhD in Industrial Relations PhD in Labor Relations PhD Jobs PhD Life PhD Salary PhD Thesis

About Phinished Gown

We take pride in offering the highest quality regalia and great customer service. All the materials we use have been specifically chosen to closely match university designs and crafted into beautiful PhD regalia. We strive to make our doctoral regalia affordable to all PhD graduates so that you can celebrate your graduation day in style.

Majors & Careers

Online programs, hire our students, which program is right for me, certificates & capstones, for companies.

• Executive Education

Faculty & Research

• Knowledge Centers

Discover renowned faculty who guide innovation.

News & publications, get involved, recruit & hire.

• Alumni Spotlights

Initiatives & Values

Trusted to lead, popular searches.

• Undergraduate Business Majors
• Life in Madison
• Entrepreneurship programs
• Compare MBA programs
• Faculty Expertise
• MS in Business Analytics
• Specialized Master’s Programs
• Search for: Search
• Undergraduate (BBA) Overview
• Majors Overview
• Accounting Major
• Actuarial Science Major
• Finance, Investment, and Banking Major
• Information Systems Major
• Management and Human Resources Major
• Marketing Major
• Operations and Technology Management Major
• Real Estate Major
• Risk Management and Insurance Major
• Supply Chain Management Major
• Admissions Overview
• High-School Student Admissions
• Current UW-Madison Student Admissions
• Transfer Student Admissions
• Tuition & Aid
• Class Profile
• Admissions FAQs
• Leadership Opportunities
• Business Badger Badges
• Student Organizations
• Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
• Academic Advising
• Success Coaching
• Scholarships
• Learning Communities
• Mental Health & Wellness
• Study Abroad Programs
• Applying to Study Abroad
• Study Abroad Advising
• Resources for UW–Madison Students Studying Abroad
• Study Abroad FAQs
• Student Experiences
• Study Abroad Events
• Incoming Students
• Events & Visits
• Student Ambassadors
• Precollege Programs
• Business Emerging Leaders (BEL) Scholarship Program
• Human Resources
• Certificates Overview
• Certificate in Business
• Summer Certificate in Business Fundamentals
• Entrepreneurship Certificate
• Risk Management & Insurance Certificate
• Accounting Fundamentals Certificate
• Certificate in Accounting
• International Business Certificate
• Consulting Certificate
• Recruit & Hire
• Compare Graduate Programs
• Compare MBA Programs
• Full-Time MBA Overview
• Specializations Overview
• Applied Security Analysis
• Corporate Finance & Investment Banking
• Strategic Human Resource Management
• Real Estate
• Risk Management & Insurance
• Supply Chain Management
• Technology Strategy & Product Management
• Requirements & Deadlines
• Culture & Diversity
• Webinars & Podcasts
• Professional MBA Overview
• Deadlines & Requirements
• Tuition & Aid
• Culture & Community
• Executive MBA Overview
• Admissions Events
• Compare Master’s Programs
• Program Overview
• Events & Visits
• Applied Consulting Practicum
• MS in Financial Economics
• Certificate in Business Analytics
• Certificate in Business, Environment, and Social Responsibility
• Certificate in Entrepreneurship
• Certificate in Strategic Innovation: Organizations, Technology, and Society
• Actuarial Science Capstone
• Recruit & Hire Graduate Students
• Sponsor a Consulting Project
• Our Faculty
• Accounting and Information Systems Overview
• Accounting & Information Systems Faculty
• Featured Publications
• Howard Carver Ethics and Professionalism Program
• Finance, Investment, and Banking Overview
• Management and Human Resources Overview
• Marketing Overview
• Operations and Information Management Overview
• Real Estate and Urban Land Economics Overview
• Risk and Insurance Overview
• Risk and Insurance Updates
• Engagement Opportunities
• Center of Actuarial Excellence
• Actuarial Profession Awareness
• Department Events
• Named Chairs & Professorships
• Faculty Editors
• PhD Program Overview
• General PhD Requirements & Resources
• Accounting and Information Systems
• Finance (Business) & Economics—Joint Degree
• Insurance Economics & Actuarial Analytics
• Insurance (Business) & Economics—Joint Degree

Management and Human Resources

• Operations and Information Management
• Real Estate & Economics—Joint Degree
• Real Estate and Urban Land Economics
• Diversity & Inclusion
• Current PhD Students
• PhD Job Candidates
• PhD Placements
• Knowledge Centers Overview
• Arthur Andersen Center Home
• Bolz Center Home
• Bolz Center Blog
• Advisory Board
• Erdman Center Home
• Applied Learning
• Grainger Center Home
• Advisory Boards
• Hawk Center Home
• Graaskamp Center Home
• Marketing Leadership Institute Home
• Corporate Engagement
• Current Partners
• Marketing Leaders’ Blog
• Nicholas Center Home
• Puelicher Center Home
• Robert Beyer Center Home
• Strategic Human Resource Center Home
• Weinert Center Home
• Weinert Resources
• Business and Entrepreneurship Clinic
• Women’s Entrepreneurship Network
• Undergraduate Entrepreneurship Courses
• Graduate Entrepreneurship Courses
• Weinert Applied Learning
• MBA Fellowship
• WAVE Practicum
• Alumni Overview
• Alumni Statistics
• Update Magazine
• Report to Investors
• About Wisconsin School of Business
• Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Entrepreneurship

• Multicultural Center
• School Leadership Team
• Dean Vallabh Sambamurthy
• Event Services

About the Program

The Wisconsin PhD in management and human resources develops scholars in the domain of management.

The program prepares individuals for careers in research and teaching at leading research universities. Our students achieve placements as assistant professors at top research universities.

Core Areas of Research

Student research is supported by faculty in five core areas:

Organizational behavior

Human resources

Organization theory

Students in our PhD program work closely with faculty members to contribute to significant advancements in the theory and practice of management, as evidenced by our recently published journal articles . Our faculty members are renowned scholars, leaders at the Academy of Management and the Strategic Management Society, and editors in top scholarly journals.

Academic Requirements

The admissions process is highly competitive. All students must meet the general PhD requirements of both the UW–Madison Graduate School and the Wisconsin School of Business.

Ideal candidates for our program possess a strong academic background at the undergraduate or graduate level and come from a variety of educational backgrounds. A degree in business is not a prerequisite for doctoral-level study, although such a background may be helpful.

Program Coursework

New students in our PhD program start by taking two years of coursework (a course is typically three credits, and a total of thirty-two credits is required). Courses are selected in consultation with the PhD coordinator and your advisor.

A substantial share of coursework may be undertaken outside of the business school. Students take a diverse array of seminars in the economics, sociology, psychology, statistics, and computer science departments, depending on their specific research interests. These may be theory or methods courses. Required coursework in research methods and statistics includes a minimum of 18 credits.

During the period of coursework, students will work closely with faculty on research projects. These interactions often lead to research collaborations in which the student becomes a co-author on published research.

The Management and Human Resources Department offers a slate of foundational PhD seminars across the group’s core areas of research: strategy, human resource management, organizational behavior, organization theory, and entrepreneurship. The department also offers two research methods seminars. These seminar offerings vary from year to year, although most are offered every second year.

Doctoral students are expected to take all PhD seminars offered by the department. From these courses you will declare primary and secondary concentrations (e.g., strategy is primary and human resources is secondary).

Preliminary exams

Preliminary exams are written at the end of the second year (usually in early summer). The exam takes place over two days and consists of four questions: two regarding your primary concentration, one on your secondary concentration, and one concerning research methods.

Upon passing the preliminary exam, students focus on their own research, developing and defending a dissertation. Throughout the PhD program, students participate as full and active members of our research community. The department runs vibrant internal and external speaker series, with both UW and visiting faculty presenting research. Our PhD students actively participate as speakers, presenting their ongoing research.

See Guide for all course requirements

Faculty Research Interests

Stav Atir Research interests: Knowledge Learning Confidence Judgment and decision making Gender bias View full profile Russell Coff Research interests: Competitive advantage Human capital Strategic management Innovation and creativity View full profile Jonathan Eckhardt Research interests: Student entrepreneurship and technology transfer Technology entrepreneurship Venture finance Entrepreneurship theory View full profile Martin Ganco Research interests: Entrepreneurship Employee mobility Innovation and technology Business strategy Complexity theory View full profile Barry Gerhart Research interests: Compensation Human resource management Incentives Staffing View full profile Florence Honoré Research interests: Entrepreneurship Human capital Employee mobility Strategic alliances Matching models View full profile Anyi Ma Research interests: Agency and community Gender and leadership Choice, control and freedom View full profile Jirs Meuris Research interests: Employee well-being and organizational performance Compensation and benefits Personal finances and financial decision-making Applications of behavioral science to public policy View full profile Alexander Stajkovic Research interests: Leadership and organizational behavior Reinforcement theory Social cognitive theory and self-efficacy Interaction between primed subconscious goals and conscious goals Core confidence View full profile Ann Terlaak Research interests: Business sustainability Corporate social responsibility Organizational learning Behavioral theory of the firm View full profile Charlie Trevor Research interests: Compensation Human resource management Consequences of employee turnover View full profile Chia-Jung Tsay Research interests: Decision-making Implicit biases Performance Expertise Policy View full profile Victoria Zhang Research interests: Social networks Norm-violations Behavioral change Computational social science View full profile Connect With Current Students

We encourage you to contact our doctoral students in management and human resources to hear their perspectives on the Wisconsin PhD Program.

View current student profiles

See Our Placement Results

Graduates of our PhD specialization in management and human resources have accepted tenure-track positions at top research universities.

View recent placements

Chia-Jung Tsay

10 Best PhD in Human Resources Online Programs

Are you interested in discovering how obtaining a PhD in Human Resources online could open up new and prestigious doors in your career?

Let’s explore how doctorate-level credentials could get you to the top of your field.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Professionals with a doctorate in Human Resources earn an average of between $60,000 and $180,000 per year (Bureau of Labor Statistics) in a variety of roles.

Universities Offering a Doctorate in Human Resources Online

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

1. Bellevue University

Bellevue University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Human Capital Management. Students must complete 51 credit hours, including 2 residencies and a dissertation, to graduate. Those interested in the program must have a minimum of 5 years of professional experience and a graduate degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher.

• PhD in Human Capital Management

Bellevue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

2. Colorado State University

Located in Fort Collins, Colorado, Colorado State University was founded in 1870.

The 60-credit PhD in Education and Human Resource Studies – Organizational Learning, Performance, and Change program is offered in cohort format by the university’s School of Education. The program can be completed in 3.75 years. Classes are held in Denver and use online tools as well.

• PhD in Education and Human Resource Studies – Organizational Learning, Performance, and Change

Colorado State  is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

3. Liberty University

Established in 1971, Liberty University is a Christian Evangelical institution located in Lynchburg, Virginia. It is ranked among the top online universities in the country by U.S. News & World Report.

The 60 credit-hour, 100% online DBA in the Human Resources program can be completed in 3 years, with no set log in times. Students can complete coursework at their own pace.

• DBA in Human Resources

Liberty University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

4. National University

Founded in 1971, National University is a network of nonprofit educational institutions headquartered in San Diego, California. NU offers a Doctor of Business Administration in Human Resources Management and a PhD in Human Resources Management.

The DBA requires the completion of 16 courses for a total of 48 credit hours. It can typically be completed in 64 months. The PhD requires the completion of 20 courses for a total of 60 credit hours. It can typically be completed in 38 months.

• DBA in Human Resources Management
• PhD in Human Resource Management

National University  is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

5. Regent University

Founded in 1977, Regent University is a Christian institution located in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

The 60 credit-hour online PhD in Organizational Leadership with a concentration in Human Resource Development program has two 4-day residency requirements.

The program consists of core and concentration courses, a capstone project, comprehensive exam, and dissertation, with some face-to-face components.

• PhD in Organizational Leadership – Human Resource Development

Regent University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

6. University of Arkansas

Located in Fayetteville, Arkansas, the University of Arkansas was established in 1871.

The online Doctor of Education in Human Resource & Workforce Development Education (HRW DEd) program, offered by the College of Education & Health Professions, requires students to take the GRE. Students are allowed to take up to 7 years to complete the doctoral degree.

• EdD in Human Resource and Workforce Development Education

The  U of A is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

7. University of Illinois – Urbana-Champaign

Established in 1867, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is located in the twin cities of Urbana and Champaign.

The Ph. in Human Resources program is offered by the School of Labor and Employment Relations. Students must complete 48-64 hours of coursework, a non-credit faculty-student workshop, exams, and a dissertation for graduation.

PhD in Human Resources

The  University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

8. University of Texas – Tyler

Located in Tyler, Texas, the University of Texas at Tyler was established in 1971.

The PhD in Human Resource Development program is offered by the university’s Soules College of Business. Students are required to complete 60 credit hours, and GMAT scores are necessary for admission. Coursework can be completed in 2.5 years.

• PhD in Human Resource Development

The University of Texas at Tyler is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

9. Walden University

Headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Walden University is an online university established in 1971.

The online DBA in Human Resource Management program has a 49-credit-hour requirement for completing the degree, with two face-to-face academic residencies. The program must be completed within 8 years unless the student’s petition for an extension.

• DBA in Human Resource Management

Walden is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

10. Wayland Baptist University

Located in Plainview, Texas, Wayland Baptist University is affiliated with the Stalked Plains Baptist Association. It was established in 1906,

The Doctor of Management in Human Resource Management program has a 60-credit-hour requirement consisting of 57 hours of coursework and 3 credit hours of research project work, comprehensive exams, and successful completion of an applied research project.

• Doctor of Management in Human Resource Management

Wayland Baptist University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Online PhD in Human Resources Programs

Pursuing a PhD in Human Resources offers room to focus on a specialty that you find engaging. The fact that you’re pursuing a specialty at a doctorate level means that you should be considered a true expert in your area of focus.

Click on the area that interests you to jump to that part of the page.

• Human Resources

Compensation and Benefits

Employee relations.

• Human Capital Management

Organizational Effectiveness

Organizational leadership.

What does that mean for your career? You could become one of a very select handful of people to be considered for certain roles in organizations.

Be prepared to tackle law, psychology, negotiations, math, and pure business studies!

General human resources covers all of the aspects of managing talent within an organization. This includes everything from bringing in workers who are the right fit to creating pay scales that keep an organization competitive.

Having a doctorate-level specialty in general human resources can help position you to become a vice president of human resources operating at an executive level within an organization.

In particular, it can help equip you to lead the full scope of human resources for major corporations, institutions, and universities.

Compensation and benefits is a very relevant specialty because companies and organizations need to have smart strategies for offering fair and competitive pay and benefits.

Additionally, a company’s benefits package must be managed impeccably to ensure that resources are being used optimally. Becoming an expert can help you become a valuable asset to companies as they seek out ways to balance the need to offer generous perks with the realities of cost.

Optimizing talent is all about managing talent. This is why a specialist in employee relations is such an asset to an organization. Your PhD is can help equip you with the negotiating and strategizing skills to create satisfied, productive employees.

It can also help you become an expert at handling contracts, keeping up with compliance regulations, and developing key internal points that will be communicated across a workforce.

Human Capital Management (HCM)

Human capital management is an emerging specialty that is attracting the attention of more and more employers.

What exactly is human capital management? Obtaining a PhD in this specialty can help you become a master of a comprehensive set of organizational practices that are designed to maximize the business value of employees.

However, the focus is far from seeing employees as impersonal “assets.” The focus of this specialty is actually on recruiting and developing talent through incentives, training, and other value-building strategies.

Do you want to be the one who organizations turn to when they want a fixer? A PhD in organization effectiveness can help you become the go-to person for strategizing how to motivate, optimize, and enhance organizations.

The true skill set for this specialty revolves around achieving the outcomes that organizations want to produce.

Organizational effectiveness may be an ideal specialty if you’re focused on how to become a human resources consultant. The big perk of this is that you’ll likely be brought in when corporations need guidance regarding how to reorient toward specific outcomes.

A specialty in organizational leadership can help you become the person that leaders of corporations and organizations turn to when they want guidance and motivation for how to do what they do better.

Obtaining a PhD can help you become something of a guru to the powerful decision-makers of the corporate world.

Organizational leaders are expected to have the tools to help leaders set strategic goals that impact every level of an organization. They are also expected to bring insights and motivation to the table that will help leaders put new ideas in motion.

Experts in organizational leadership have the unique distinction of being able to guide management approaches that work for both individuals and groups. Expect to be brought in during transitions and growth points.

Common Courses for PhD Human Resources Programs

The path to getting a PhD in Human Resources is often paved with some of the most interesting courses a student can take. You will likely dabble in everything from high-level business theory to motivational psychology by the time you emerge as an expert in your field.

Everything you study will probably have a distinct people-oriented angle! Here’s a look at some of the courses you may take as a Human Resources PhD student:

• Compensation and Benefits cover in-depth how to build and manage full-scale compensation and benefits with considerations given to legal requirements and accounting principles.
• Conflict Resolution covers effective ways to communicate and bring forth resolutions when people within a workplace come to the table.
• Workplace Ethics dives into the legal and ethical requirements in workplace settings.
• Employment Law is designed to equip students with the right tools to walk into situations that require action or mediation.

You should have well-rounded expertise that covers core topics like management, compensation models, and employee relations when finished with your program.

Your courses will also help you gain familiarity with important workplace topics, such as sexual harassment in the workplace, employee theft, union regulations, employee morale, bonuses, and retirement.

Dissertation seminars are also included in most PhD in Human Resources curriculums. You can work toward doing independent, cutting-edge research that may ultimately contribute to the human resources field!

PhD in Human Resources Careers

A PhD in Human Resources is a particularly robust area of study because it opens up possibilities in both the corporate and academic worlds. Many people who pursue this path do so because they want to reach executive-level positions.

Others would like to teach business classes on an academic track.

Being a vice president of human resources on the executive team of a large corporation is typically the goal that people have in mind when they pursue a PhD in human resources.

Roles as a human resources leader for a school district, hospital, university, or municipal government are all on the table.

A PhD in Human Resources may also be attractive to those who are interested in providing executive and leadership training on a consulting basis. You might start your own consulting practice, publish books, and host workshops.

Additionally, a PhD can qualify you to pursue teaching positions within the business departments at colleges and universities.

PhD in Human Resources Salary

Let’s discuss what salaries can look like for those who reach the upper echelons on the human resources profession. Yes, the pay can be generous once you get to this level.

Here’s a look at average salary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:

• Chief Human Resources Officer: $185,950
• Compensation and Benefits Manager: $125,130
• Human Resources Manager: $121,220
• Training and Development Manager: $115,640
• Professor of Business Administration: $88,010
• Human Resources Specialist: $63,490

Those who chose to parlay their expertise into careers focused on teaching or consulting may earn income through published works and paid workshops.

Professional Organizations for Those With an HR Doctorate Degree

As a leader in your profession, you’ll probably want to become engaged with other professionals through professional organizations. The field of human resources has some of the most robust professional organizations around.

Here’s a look at groups to consider for everything from personal development to networking:

• The Academy of Human Resources Development (AHRD) serves thousands of HR professionals around the world by fostering the development and study of theories, practices, techniques, and processes in the field of human resources.
• The Association for Talent Development (ATD) is the world’s largest organization for professionals tasked with seeking and fostering workplace talent. Members have access to valuable resources that can be practically applied in their workplaces.
• HR People + Strategy is a network of executives and HR thought leaders that offers access to exchanges, research, and publications.
• The International Association for Human Resource Information Management (IHRIM) is a resource-rich organization that provides members with access to educational and certification programs. Additionally, members can access a professional community and invitations to conferences.
• The National Human Resources Association (NHRA) is a volunteer-based organization that offers community and career services.
• The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) promotes and lobbies on behalf of the HR profession. Additionally, this organization provides members with networking and certification opportunities.

Becoming connected with a professional organization is vital for those seeking prominent roles within the HR industry. One of the big perks of professional membership is that you will be invited to attend regional and national events. You may even be rewarded and recognized by an organization!

The certifications that are offered by highly recognized and regarded HR organizations can demonstrate the practical skills that accompany your PhD in human resources.

Certification and Licensure Following a Doctorate in Human Resources

Is it necessary to pursue certification and licensure after completing a human resources PhD program? Doing so can certainly make your online degree in human resources more valuable by demonstrating practical knowledge to accompany your academic pursuits.

Here’s a look at the certifications that are considered to be the most relevant:

• A Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) demonstrates one’s ability to develop strategies, lead groups, build influence, analyze performance metrics, and match HR goals to organizational goals upon receiving a passing score on the SHRM-SCP exam.
• A Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) showcases a proficiency in strategy and policymaking upon receiving a passing score on the SPHR exam.
• A Senior Professional in Human Resources — International (SPHRi) showcases a mastery of high-level policymaking upon receiving a passing score on the SPHRi exam.

These certifications are considered to be résumé boosters for applicants applying to high-level HR leadership positions. Preparing for certification can be a very useful experience for adding very relevant and actionable skills and knowledge to your professional toolkit.

Accreditation for a Doctorate in Human Resources

Many people seeking HR PhDs focus exclusively on schools and programs with regional accreditation. You may be wondering if this is what you should also be doing if you’re about to pursue a degree that will position you to be an HR leader.

There’s no denying that a school with regional accreditation offers benefits that could help your degree to appear more impressive to employers. Regional accreditation requires very strict evaluation guidelines. This generally makes your degree more valuable by default.

Don’t forget that regional accreditation could be very important if you end up switching schools! That’s because your credits will transfer more easily if you begin your studies at a regionally accredited institution.

A school’s federal accreditation is all that’s necessary to participate in federal financial aid programs that are available to students.

Financial Aid for an Online PhD in Human Resources

You’re probably looking into ways to pay for a PhD in Human Resources if you feel that completing this level of education is what’s necessary to help you reach your career goals. PhD programs can be more expensive per course than other programs like a master’s in human resources online degree program .

Fortunately, PhD students have a wide variety of funding resources beyond what’s available for undergraduate students to look into. This includes things like fellowships, teaching assistantships, research assistantships, and grants.

A student studying for a PhD in Human Resources may have access to federal grants, federal loans, private loans, and institution-provided tuition assistance. There is a good chance that you will pay much less than what a college or university lists as its full-time tuition cost.

Can You Get a PhD in HR?

Yes, several colleges and universities offer PhD programs in HR. The human resources programs of most schools are closely aligned with business and management programs.

There’s a good chance that you will be taking the majority of your courses through a school’s business department. Additionally, psychology and finance courses may be a part of your full curriculum.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Human Resources?

Most PhD programs for HR require students to complete between 60 and 90 credits. The length of time it takes to finish your program will depend on your full-time or part-time status.

Most students are able to complete a PhD in Human Resources within five years. Keep in mind that you will probably be required to complete research for a lengthy, involved dissertation. Due to this, traditional or online accelerated human resources degree programs aren’t an option for students who are pursuing a PhD.

If completion speed is a primary focus for you, then you may want to consider pursuing a Doctor of Business Administration in Human Resources instead. DBA programs are professional doctorates and in many cases they don’t require a dissertation .

Is a PhD in Human Resources Worth It?

Yes, a PhD in human resources is worth it for many students. The Bureau of Labor Statistics is projecting 5% job growth in management occupations over the next 10 years. Common careers in this field include business professor, training and development manager, human resources manager, compensation and benefits manager, and chief human resources officer.

If you’re researching a PhD in Human Resources, you may have decided this is the field where you can build a career on your talent and skills.

It’s true that a PhD in Human Resources isn’t for everyone who works in the HR field. This degree often attracts those who want to be at the top of the industry.

Yes, a PhD in human resources may be worth it for someone who would like to pursue high-level HR roles within operations. This degree can help equip you to be a decision-maker and makes pursuing your PhD an especially worthwhile adventure!

45,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. Take the first step today

Here’s your new year gift, one app for all your, study abroad needs, start your journey, track your progress, grow with the community and so much more.

Verification Code

An OTP has been sent to your registered mobile no. Please verify

Thanks for your comment !

Our team will review it before it's shown to our readers.

Things to Know About PhD in Human Resource Management

• Updated on  
• Apr 26, 2023

Getting a PhD is all about gaining new knowledge, learning new things, and honing new abilities. While people can do PhD in any area of their interest, PhD in Human Resource Management is considered one of the most chosen areas. The reason is simple – many business professionals pursue a PhD in Human Resource Management to develop their careers, contribute to research, earn higher pay, or advance in their field. Are you planning to pursue your dream of pursuing a PhD in Human Resource management? Then, read the full blog to know the eligibility criteria, application process, entrance requirements, and many more essential details.

Also Read: Masters in Human Resource Management

This Blog Includes:

What is phd in human resource management, why pursue a phd in human resource management, universities abroad, universities in india, eligibility criteria, phd in human resource management: entrance exams, career opportunities, job prospects, and salary trends, career scope.

PhD in Human Resource Management is a 3-5 year doctoral degree in human resource management. A lot of colleges across India offer the program. This curriculum focuses on developing organizational skills, training and developmental skills, decision-making abilities, and communication skills in students. The course is extremely beneficial for developing critical thinking skills similar to thinking outside the box and beyond traditional constraints. One also learns about the rules and procedures that businesses use to increase productivity and efficiency.

Educators, human resource leaders, and industrial-organizational psychologists all want a PhD in human resources as a professional degree. A PhD in HR is primarily research-oriented, and students may expect to collaborate closely with academics to develop and publish their own original research.

HR departments were earlier used to be known for enforcing company policies. HR departments now provide a lot more than just compliance. HR divisions are now the lifeblood of any successful company. A PhD in human resource management may be a suitable option for you if you are organized, fair, and detail-oriented, and want to expand your horizons.

Also Read: Courses after MBA in Human Resources

PhD in Human Resource Management: Top Universities 

While taking up a program, a student should always try to get into top universities which can result in success in both personal and professional areas. Mentioned below are some of the top universities in India and Abroad offering PhD in Human Resource Management.

The table below lists the best schools and universities offering full-time PhD in Human Resource Management programs:

Also Read: PhD Abroad With Scholarships For Indian Students

The table below lists the best PhD in Human Resource Management schools and universities in India that provide full-time programs:

A student must be eligible to enrol in a certain course. The following are the prerequisites for the PhD in Human Resource Management program:

• The student must get a Master’s or M.Phil. in Human Resources Management.
• He or she must receive at least 55 per cent of the total marks from an accredited university.
• The primary prerequisite for admission to this program is that you must pass the entrance examination with the required cut-off scores.
• In addition, students must perform well in the personal interview round.

Also Read: Best Human Resource Management Books

There are numerous national and state-level entrance tests to take in order to get admitted to a PhD program in Human Resource Management. Some of the most popular PhD entry tests are listed here.

• University Grants Commission NET (UGC-NET) : The National Testing Agency (NTA) conducts the National Eligibility Test (UGC-NET) to determine the eligibility of candidates for Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) or Assistant Professor & JRF in Indian colleges and universities. Simultaneously, the approach is designed for admission to a variety of PhD programs. The test is held in June and December of each year.
• JNUEE : The Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, conducts the JNUEE for admission to various doctorate programs such as M.Phil and PhD. The NTA administers the test on behalf of JNU. This test is used to get admission to PhD programs at JNU and a few other universities.
• CSIR-UGC NET: The NTA administers the CSIR-UGC NET, which is used by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) to determine eligibility for JRF and Lectureship/Assistant Professor positions in Indian colleges and universities. 

Those who pass the test are also entitled to apply for PhD programs at colleges throughout India without having to take an entrance exam. The exam takes place twice a year, and applications must be submitted online.

• This course has a lot of job options. Students can work as Human Resource Generalists, Human Resource Managers, Training Coordinators, Deputy Managers, and many other positions in government and private enterprises such as IT, marketing, businesses, and academia.
• After finishing this degree, students will be able to work in both the public and private sectors. They can work as a Professor in the relevant field in various universities across the world in addition to working in a company.
• The following table lists some of the most popular PhD Human Resource Management job profiles and career prospects upon completion of the course:

The highest educational degree in the country is a PhD, which is a doctorate-level degree. Following the completion of a PhD in Human Resource Management, most people do not seek further education.

Employability is high, and graduates are rapidly hired in high-paying jobs after completing their degrees. There is no limit to what you may learn with this course:

• They will be able to teach in colleges and universities after completing this program and passing the UGC-NET exam, which is essential to become a permanent lecturer.
• They have numerous work opportunities in IT, marketing, business, academia, and other fields.
• A D.Sc (Doctor of Science) degree in any comparable discipline is also an option for students.
• PhD Human Resource Management degree holders can work in research laboratories after having sufficient expertise in the subject.
• After completing your PhD, you may be eligible for a position as a lecturer in Human Resource Management and teaching in colleges and universities with UGC ratings.

Must Read: Doing A PhD After MBA

After completing a PhD in Human Resource Management one can work as an Industrial Relations Manager, Administration Manager, Personnel Manager, HR Executive, HR Director, etc.

To get enrolled in a PhD in Human Resource Management the student should have completed a Master’s or M Phill degree with at least 55% marks and English as a core subject. There is no age criteria for this program and admission can be based on both merit and entrance.

Yes, you can pursue PhD in HR after doing an MBA.

PhD is the highest degree in HR.

Are you also looking for opportunities to study abroad ? If the answer is yes, the experts at Leverage Edu can make your journey easier as they will be guiding you throughout the process. To take help from the experts simply register on our website or call us at 1800-572-000.

Team Leverage Edu

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Contact no. *

Till now I didn’t filled any entrance form and now July 2021 is can you please help me to know which form may I fill for PhD in HR management.i am from haldwani uttrakhand I want college in uttrakhand only and what should I study for the entrance exam for PhD

When can I take the test

You can take the test as per the university requirements and based on different entrance exam scheduled dates.

Leaving already?

8 Universities with higher ROI than IITs and IIMs

Grab this one-time opportunity to download this ebook

Connect With Us

45,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. take the first step today..

Resend OTP in

Need help with?

Study abroad.

UK, Canada, US & More

IELTS, GRE, GMAT & More

Scholarship, Loans & Forex

Country Preference

New Zealand

Which English test are you planning to take?

Which academic test are you planning to take.

Not Sure yet

When are you planning to take the exam?

Already booked my exam slot

Within 2 Months

Want to learn about the test

Which Degree do you wish to pursue?

When do you want to start studying abroad.

September 2024

January 2025

What is your budget to study abroad?

How would you describe this article ?

Please rate this article

We would like to hear more.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Human Resources Management (HRM) Degree

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Human Resources Management (HRM) Jobs by Salary

Featured content, related degrees by salary.

Degrees in the same industry as Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Human Resources Management (HRM), ranked by salary

Avg. Salary $67k — $124k

Avg. Salary $69k — $149k

Avg. Salary $89k

Avg. Salary $59k — $133k

Avg. Salary $62k — $127k

Avg. Salary $68k — $131k

Avg. Salary $90k

Years of Experience

Gender breakdown for doctor of philosophy (phd), human resources management (hrm).

Get the Reddit app

A subreddit for Human Resources professionals: come here to seek career advice, ask questions and get feedback from peers within the HR Community around the world whether you're brand new to HR or a seasoned vet.

Is a PHD in HRM worth it?

By continuing, you agree to our User Agreement and acknowledge that you understand the Privacy Policy .

Enter the 6-digit code from your authenticator app

You’ve set up two-factor authentication for this account.

Enter a 6-digit backup code

Create your username and password.

Reddit is anonymous, so your username is what you’ll go by here. Choose wisely—because once you get a name, you can’t change it.

Reset your password

Enter your email address or username and we’ll send you a link to reset your password

Check your inbox

An email with a link to reset your password was sent to the email address associated with your account

Choose a Reddit account to continue

• Study Abroad Get upto 50% discount on Visa Fees
• Top Universities & Colleges
• Abroad Exams
• Top Courses
• Read College Reviews
• Admission Alerts 2024
• Education Loan
• Institute (Counselling, Coaching and More)
• Ask a Question
• College Predictor
• Test Series
• Practice Questions
• Course Finder
• Scholarship
• All Courses
• B.Sc (Nursing)

PhD Human Resource Management Eligibility, Distance Learning, Colleges, Admission, Entrance Exams, Syllabus, Jobs, Salary 2024

Ahana Bhaduri

Content Writer

PhD in Human Resource Management is a 3-5 year doctoral program in the field of human resource management. The course is offered at a number of colleges across India. The focus of this program is on training the students on aspects such as organizational skills, training and developmental skills, decision-making skills and communication skills. 

Admission to this program will be done based on the candidate's performance in the entrance exam which is followed by a personal interview round conducted by the college or university.To be eligible to apply to this course, students must hold a Master’s degree in relevant discipline from a recognized university. The average annual fees for PhD in Human Resource Management course in Indian colleges usually ranges between INR 11,200 and INR 1,02,000. 

On completion of a PhD Human Resource Management program, students have many job opportunities like Human Resource Manager, HR Executive, HR Director, Personnel Manager, etc. The average salary offered to a degree holder in PhD Human Resource Management is around INR 6,00,000 to INR 11,00,000, but this can be higher on the basis of experience and other factors.

PhD Human Resource Management Course Highlights

Highlights for PhD Human Resource Management  program are provided in the table given below:

PhD Human Resource Management: What is it about?

Information and details about the PhD Human Resource Management program are as follows.

• While doing this course, a doctoral student will have to independently research an original topic under the supervision of a guide or supervisor with relevant experience and expertise from among the academic staff of the college or university.
• The PhD program consists of a coursework which has to be completed by the student mostly by the first year of his/her studies.
• The coursework mostly deals with the subject knowledge and the research methodologies to be used while undertaking research later in the course.
• Those with an MPhil qualification get relaxation in coursework, if they have covered those topics during their MPhil itself.
• On successful completion of the coursework, the students need to present a synopsis of the research work that they are going to undertake. At this stage a research guide or supervisor is assigned to support the students with their research work.
• The award of PhD depends a lot upon the quality of the thesis that the students submit. Often the thesis has to be corrected and resubmitted a number of times to internal faculty before being finally submitted to external examiners for scrutiny.
• Based on their thesis, the students are subjected to an oral examination by the external examiners. The students have to defend their thesis and the results that they have inferenced from their research work.
• Apart from the thesis, the students are also expected to publish some research papers.

Why study PhD Human Resource Management?

The goal to attain a PhD in Human Resource Management degree will depend on each individual’s aspirations and goals. Some of the benefits and perks of pursuing PhD Human Resource Management degree program has been mentioned below:

• To experienced professionals, who are in the field of managing human resource, this course provides an opportunity to extend their knowledge in the field and to enhance their skills.
• The course is helpful if one aims to get into leadership roles in their respective organisations.
• By undertaking this course, one can greatly enhance their research skills that can come handy while creating strategies to solve issues related to human resource management.
• It is a worthwhile course for those who are passionate about a teaching career in colleges and universities.
• Human resource management is an upcoming field. With organisations becoming more professional in outlook, there is a demand for human resource professionals in every field, be it private companies or government organizations.
• The curriculum for this course is very interesting and knowledgeable. Students can achieve high success after completing this course.
• On completion of this course, students get lucrative salary packages ranging between INR 6,00,000 and 11,00,000. 

PhD Human Resource Management Admission Process

• Most of the colleges and universities follow an entrance-based process for admission to PhD Human Resource Management courses.
• On cracking the entrance test, candidate’s research topic, proposal, methodology etc. are checked and an interview is held.

Entrance Based Admission

Most of the colleges and universities offer admission to PhD Human Resource Management on the basis of entrance exams like UGC NET, CSIR NET etc.

The step-by-step procedure for entrance-based admission is as follows:

• Step 1: Students have to register on the official website. 
• Step 2: Fill the application form with correct details.
• Step 3: After examination, a cutoff list will be released on the website. Seats will then be allotted to candidates based on their scores in the entrance exam. 
• Step 4: Some colleges also conduct personal interviews and group discussion for admission to this course. 
• Step 5: On meeting all the eligibility criteria, a student will then be offered admission to the course.  

What is the PhD Human Resource Management Eligibility Criteria?

A student must have to be eligible to pursue a certain course. The eligibility criteria for the Ph.D. in Human Resource Management course are the following:-

• The student must complete a Master’s degree or M.Phil degree in HR Management.
• He/she should get a minimum of 55% of the aggregate of marks from any recognized university.
• Must clear cut-off marks in the entrance examination are the prime requirement for getting admission in this course
• The students also have to do well in the Personal Interview round.

Which are the popular PhD Human Resource Management Entrance Exams?

There are many national and state-level entrance exams to appear for the admission into PhD Human Resource Management program. Listed below are some of these popular PhD entrance exams.

• UGC-NET: University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test (UGC-NET) is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for finding eligibility of candidates for Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) or Assistant Professor & JRF both, in colleges and universities in India. At the same time, the test is also used for admission to various PhD programs. The test is held twice a year in June and December.
• CSIR-UGC NET: Entrusted by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), the CSIR-UGC NET is also conducted by the NTA for determining eligibility of candidates for JRF as well as Lectureship/Assistant Professor in colleges and universities in India. Those qualifying the test are also eligible to apply for admission to PhD programs in colleges across India, without having to appear for any entrance test. The exam is held twice a year and the applications are to be made online. The test is held in CBT (Computer Based Test) mode. The test is of 3 hours duration.

The application dates, exam dates and the mode of the exam of the above mentioned exams are provided in the table below.

How to Prepare for a PhD Human Resource Management Entrance Exams?

The syllabus for PhD Human Resource Management entrance exams will vary from college to college. Students are advised to follow the below mentioned tips to excel in entrance exams. 

• The UGC-NET, which is a popular eligibility test for PhD entrance, is a 3-hour test. It has two papers, paper 1 being common for all candidates and paper 2 being subject specific. The paper 1 has 50 MCQ questions and paper 2 has 100 MCQs. The total marks for the test is 300. The test can be given either in English or Hindi.
• As seen from above, the candidates will have to prepare extensively for the test as they will be tested on the subject they are opting for the PhD program as well as on topics that are general in nature.
• For the subject specific paper, the candidates will have to brush up their knowledge on topics related to human resource management.
• Browse through important topics covered in post graduation will be of immense help.
• The candidates can refer to previous year papers to figure out the difficulty level of the questions.
• Practicing sample test papers and appearing for mock tests helps in getting to know the pattern of the tests and getting a hang of the computer based test.

How to get admission to a good PhD Human Resource Management college?

There are a number of colleges that offer a PhD program in Human Resource management. To get admission to a top college or university, one will have to be on the lookout for notifications released by such colleges. One can search for notifications by visiting the college websites from time to time. Following are some of the measures that can be undertaken to get admission to a top college for undertaking this PhD course.

• Students will have to prepare really well for the entrance tests. Only when you qualify the entrance exams with a very good score are their chances for you to get admission. In most cases, the entrance test has a 70% weightage in selection.
• For getting a good score in the entrance tests, the candidates will have to be thorough with their subjects and need to prepare well for the test. 
• The candidates need to do well in the interview part too. Before appearing for the interview, one should brush up some of the important topics related to their field of study. Questions could also be asked about the candidate’s research proposal. So one should prepare about the research proposal too. It helps, if one gets to attend mock interviews, so as to get familiarized with the interview process.
• Past academic achievements and a good academic record goes a long way in getting selected. So make a list of all such achievements and produce them in front of the panel as and when asked to do so.

What is the Syllabus of PhD Human Resource Management?

Although the PhD in Human Resource Management program syllabus varies from college to college, it mostly consists of some common foundation courses that students can select based on their interests.

The common subjects that are included in the structured PhD Human Resource Management syllabus are provided in the table given below: 

Which books can I refer to while pursuing a PhD Human Resource Management program?

Important Books and authors for PhD in Human Resource Management program are:-

Which are the top PhD Human Resource Management Colleges?

The table below shows the best PhD Human Resource Management colleges and universities that offer the course in a full-time mode.

Source: College Websites

PhD Human Resource Management College Comparison

The tabulation below depicts the comparison made among the three top PhD Human Resource Management colleges in India.

PhD Human Resource Management Distance Learning

Sometimes, because of various reasons, one cannot pursue the desired course through regular learning mode, in such cases distance learning mode comes to their rescue. Students can pursue a PhD Human Resource Management program through distance mode. Before taking admission, Students must check for the validity of the course and the college in distance or correspondence mode.

• In order to be eligible for this course through correspondence mode students need to hold a Master’s in relevant discipline from a recognized university. 
• The minimum duration required to complete this course from distance mode is 3 year and the maximum duration of the same is 5 years.
• Admission to PhD HR Management course through correspondence mode is merit-based.
• The average fee for the course ranges from INR 60,000 to INR 3,00,000 annually.

Given below are some colleges which offer this course through distance mode.

PhD Human Resource Management vs PhD Personnel Management & Industrial Relations

PhD Human Resource Management and PhD PM&IR are two different doctoral level courses which are offered by a large number of institutes across India. 

Check the table below for more comparative details:

What are Job Prospects and Career Options after PhD Human Resource Management?

• Job opportunities are very good for this course. Students can get a chance to work in various Govt and Private organizations like the IT Sectors, Marketing, Businesses, Academics, etc. as Human Resource Generalist, Human Resource Manager, Training Coordinator, Deputy Manager, etc. and many more.
• Both Government and Private sector jobs are available for the students after completing this course. Besides working in an organization, they can work as a Professor in the concerned subject in various Universities around the globe.

Tabulation below shows some of the most common PhD Human Resource Management job profiles and career prospects after completing the course are as follows: 

What are the Future Scopes of PhD Human Resource Management?

PhD degree is a doctorate level degree and is the highest educational degree one can earn in the country. Generally one does not pursue further studies post completion of the PhD Human Resource Management degree.

Employability is high and graduates are hired quickly upon completion of their degree in high pay job profiles. With this course, there is no limit to learning and knowledge.

• They have teaching jobs in colleges/universities after this course and then clearing the UGC-NET exam required for becoming a permanent lecturer.
• They have many jobs in IT Sectors, Marketing, Businesses, Academics etc.
• Students can also opt for a DSc (Doctor of Science) degree in any related field. 
• After gaining adequate experience in the related field, PhD Human Resource Management degree holders can work in research laboratories.  
• Once you finish your PhD you can also be qualified for a lecturer post in Human Resource Management and also to teach in colleges and universities with UGC scales.

PhD Human Resource Management FAQs

Some of the most frequently asked questions pertaining to the PhD Human Resource Management program are as follows: 

Ques. How many years does it take to complete PhD Human Resource management?

Ans. If done on a full-time basis, it takes at least 3 years to complete this course. It often takes more than that time because of delay in submission of the thesis by the students.

Ques. What is the eligibility criteria for applying to a PhD Human Resource Management program?

Ans. The minimum criterion is to have a postgraduate degree in the relevant field with at least 55% marks or an equivalent CGPA. There is a relaxation of 5% for SC/ST/OBCs.

Ques. What is the selection procedure for enrolling for PhD Human Resource Management courses?

Ans. The selection of the candidates for the PhD program is done on the basis of an entrance test and personal interview. The candidates’ past academic performance is also reckoned during the selection process.

Ques. Which are some of the popular entrance exams that one needs to appear for while applying for PhD Human Resource Management programs?

Ans. Some of the popular tests for a PhD program are UGC-NET, CSIR-UGC NET and JNUEE. These are online tests which are conducted by the NTA.

Ques. What is the course fee for pursuing PhD Human Resource Management?

Ans. The average course fee ranges from INR 50,000 to 1,50,000. The fees basically depend on the college and whether it is privately owned or a government one.

Ques. What is the role of a Human Resource Manager?

Ans. The role of a Human Resource Manager is a varied one. They have to look into every aspect of managing people like hiring, inducting them, arranging training and development programs, deciding upon the compensation and allotting work as per their skill and training. There are other aspects like maintaining cordial relations between labour and management and coming up with welfare measures for the employees.

Ques. What are some of the job profiles that a student can opt for after completing this course?

Ans. Some of the popular job profiles in the HR field are HR Executive, HR Manager, Training Coordinator, Recruitment Consultant, IR Manager, Welfare Officer, HR Director and so on.

Ques. I have an MPhil in Human Resource Management? Do I need to appear for the entrance test?

Ans. Candidates who have an MPhil degree in Human Resource Management need not to appear for the entrance test. They can directly appear for the interview.

Ques. What is the average salary offered to a fresher in this field?

Ans. For a fresher in this field the average salary usually ranges between INR 6,00,000 and 11,00,000 per annum. 

Ph.D. (Management Studies)

M.phil. (management), ph.d. (marketing), ph.d. (business administration), ph.d. (finance), ph.d. (human resource management) colleges in india.

IIMC - Indian Institute of Management

IIML - Indian Institute of Management

Department of Management Studies, IIT Madras - [DoMS IIT Madras]

Shailesh J. Mehta School of Management, IIT Bombay - [SJMSOM]

KJ Somaiya Institute of Management

Amity University

Loyola Institute of Business Administration - [LIBA]

Acharya Nagarjuna University - [ANU]

Subscribe to our news letter.

• Top Colleges
• Top Courses
• Entrance Exams
• Admission 2024
• Study Abroad
• Study in Canada
• Study in UK
• Study in USA
• Study in Australia
• Study in Germany
• IELTS Material
• Scholarships
• Sarkari Exam
• Visual Stories
• College Compare
• Write a review
• Login/ Register
• Login / Register

Ph.D HRM (Human Resource Management)

Ph.D in Human Resource Management is a three to five-year-long doctorate program that deals with the study of human relations and its recruitment, selection, induction, orientation, training, and management. Ph.D. in HRM offers candidates to set up a career in various areas of Building Construction, Consultation, Marketing, Recruitment, Customer Service, Management Firms, Govt and Private Organizations like the IT Sectors, Marketing, Businesses, Academics, etc.

Ph.D Human Resource Management Course Details

About Ph.D in HRM

During the Ph.D. in Human Resource Management course, students are given a basic understanding of the interpersonal relationship in the employee recruitment industry. HRM is the development of human relations by providing or hiring in recruitment areas. According to TechTarget, “The Ph.D. in HRM is the doctorate program in the Human Resource sector awarded by universities and conservatories. The course combines the practice of recruiting, hiring, deploying, and managing an organization's personnel is known as Human Resource Management (HRM). 

Table of Contents

• Ph.D in HRM Eligibility Criteria
• Ph.D in HRM Admission Process
• Ph.D in HRM Entrance Exams
• Top Ph.D in HRM Colleges
• Fees Structure for Ph.D in HRM

Syllabus and Subjects for Ph.D in HRM

• Why Choose Ph.D in HRM?

Preparation Tips for Ph.D in HRM

• Ph.D in HRM Salary

Career Options After Ph.D in HRM

• Skills to Excel

Eligibility Criteria for Ph.D in HRM

Ph.D. in Human Resource Management admission is offered to only those students who meet the eligibility requirements. The candidates must have a Master’s degree or M.Phil degree in HR Management with a minimum 55% aggregate score in the final examination and English as a core subject. There is no age limit for the course. The admission process can be either entrance exam-based or merit-based.

How To Get Admission in Ph.D in HRM?

Students must ensure that they satisfy the eligibility criteria for Ph.D. in HRM in India. Ph.D. in HRM admission 2021 is done through entrance exam scores or on a merit basis. Admission procedures may vary across different Ph.D. in HRM universities in India.  The course falls under the umbrella of Ph.D. and therefore, follows a similar admission process. Mentioned below are the details of the admission process in general:

How to Apply?

Ph.D. in HRM course details and procedures for admission can be found on the college's official websites. To apply for the course, visit the official university admission portal and register for the entrance exam. After that fill the application form by providing the required details.

Selection Process

Admission is strictly offered to only those students who clear the Ph.D. in Human Resource Management eligibility criteria. The list of shortlisted candidates can be availed through the college’s official website or will be informed via email regarding the result and the further admission process.

Popular Entrance Exams for Ph.D. in HRM

Admission to the Ph.D. in HRM course in India is mainly through entrance examinations. Entrance exams for Ph.D. in HRM India are usually conducted on the university level. The most common exams that most candidates apply to are as follows:

• CSIR UGC NET

A Quick Glance at the Ph.D in HRM Entrance Exams

To get admitted, students must ensure whether they satisfy the eligibility for the Ph.D. in HRM course. To clear the entrance exam, students should study the exam pattern and syllabus well before time. This will assist students in timely preparation for the entrance exams. Listed below is the general pattern for the entrance exams:

• The entrance exam has multiple sections that test different parts of a student's knowledge from English, Analytical Skills, Reasoning, General Aptitude, and General Knowledge, Numerical Aptitude/Data Interpretation.
• The examination will be conducted through offline mode or online mode.
• The time duration to complete the paper is 3 hours.
• Paper consists of 150 multiple choice questions carrying 300 marks.

Top 10 Ph.D in HRM Colleges in India

Various institutes offer Ph.D. in HRM. Students can opt for the Ph.D. in HRM best college depending upon their merit and specialization needed. Some of the Ph.D. in HRM top colleges are listed below:

Fee Structure for Ph.D in HRM

Ph.D. in HRM fees range from INR 50,000 - 3 LPA. The fees may vary according to the college or university based on the type of institute, location, infrastructure, faculties, and facilities available. Below listed are the Ph.D. in HRM fees structure of some colleges:

Ph.D. in Human Resource Management is a three to five-year doctorate course in the HRM industry. Ph.D. in HRM course is a comprehensive study that prepares students to work in the fast-paced human resource industry in areas such as Recruitment, IT, Marketing, Business, Management, PR, Hospitality, etc. The subjects related to this course vary according to specializations and the institutes. The syllabus includes theory papers and a project paper. The compulsory subjects include:

• Human Resource Management
• Organizational Theory
• Leadership and Communication
• Industrial Relations
• Corporate Rules and Regulations

Read More About Ph.D HRM Syllabus and Subjects

Why Choose Ph.D. in HRM?

Students often wonder about Ph.D. in HRM course details before choosing the course. Before deciding on a career, students come across queries like, "What is the Ph.D. in HRM course?" and "Why choose Ph.D. in HRM?”. To clearly understand answers to these questions, we have framed the following three pointers:

What is Ph.D in HRM All About?

Doctorate of Philosophy in Human Resource Management is a doctorate program that deals with the study of building or connecting human relations through the management firms, companies, employees, recruitment, organizational behavior, etc. The course has its principles from various fields like IT, Recruitment, Hospitality, Administration, Event Management, Business Management, etc.

What Does a Ph.D in HRM Graduate Do?

The Ph.D. in HRM doctorates can work as Human Resource Manager, HR Executive, HR Director, Recruitment Manager, Chief Human Resource Officer, Administration Manager, Industrial Relations Manager, etc. This course mainly focuses on the research work which concentrates on how industries or organizations need to be maintained and controlled and providing all the resources to employees in any organization.

HR: An HR's job is to increase employee productivity while also protecting the organization from any problems that develop in the workplace. Compensation and benefits, recruitment, dismissal, and staying up to date on any regulations that may affect the organization and its employees are all part of HR's responsibilities.

Reasons Why Ph.D in HRM Can Fetch Students a Rewarding Career?

Career prospects for Ph.D. in HRM greatly vary. It depends on the respective specialization and demand. Candidates also make use of the research or dissertation in Human Resource Management education to provide the doctorate to get a job in IT, Recruitment, Hospitality, Administration, Event Management, Business Management, Government, University Administration, etc.

Career Scope and Options: An Ph.D. in HRM course provides a lot of job opportunities, aspirants who have completed the course can mainly start a career as Manager, PR, Human Resource Manager, HR Executive, HR Director, Personnel Manager, HRD Manager, Recruitment Manager, Chief Human Resource Officer, Administration Manager, IR Industrial Relations Manager, etc.

Read More About Ph.D HRM Jobs

Some of the course preparation tips for the Ph.D in HRM course are listed below:

Know The Syllabus And Exam Pattern : To prepare well for the entrance exams the candidates should be aware of the syllabus, exam pattern, and the research paper and books to equip the knowledge required.

Practice Question Papers: Practice solving previous years’ papers to understand the type of questions asked. It also helps to improve and prepare students for the actual exam.

Take Mock Tests: Solving as many mock tests can help students gain speed and accuracy.

Prepare Time Table: Finish preparation well in advance, to have enough time for revision of the content.

Salary of a Ph.D in HRM Doctorate

The average salary of an employee with a degree in Ph.D. in Human Resource Management is INR 3- 7 LPA (Source: Naukri) for freshers. The salaries and annual earnings depend on the specific companies they work for, the methods of practice, expertise, and other related aspects.

Read More About Ph.D HRM Salary

After completion of the course, the doctorates can find jobs in areas like IT, Recruitment, Hospitality, Administration, Event Management, Business Management, Government, University Administration, Research & Development, etc. The doctorates can even apply for the UPSC, UGC NET/SET, or JRF. Clearing these exams to make a career further in the HRM industry. Some job roles offered to doctorates are:

• HR Director
• HR Executive
• HR Consultant
• Recruitment Head

Skills That Make students The Best Ph.D in HRM Doctorate

Some people are passionate about working in the travel & tourism sector and providing the best deals on the entire tour plan and implementing it professionally in the future. Ph.D. in HRM course is wide-ranging and deep in the subjects it explores the different methods and administration advancements in the HRM sector. Some required skills are:

• Communication Skills
• Effective Decision-Making Skills
• Leadership and Management Skills
• Time Management
• Presentation Skills

Get Free Scholarship worth 25000 INR

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser .

Building Trust Through Compensation Communication: Who Should Say What and When

Written by Salary.com Staff

August 12, 2024

Talking about pay and benefits is a delicate but important part of human resources. Pay discussion is not only about sharing details on salaries, bonuses, and perks; it's also about making sure this information is clear, open, and given on time. Good pay communication makes employees happier, more motivated, and more likely to stay with the company.

On the other hand, poor communication can lead to confusion, unhappiness, and even people quitting. This article will explore the details of how pay communication, focusing on who is responsible for sharing information, what they must say, and when they need to communicate to get the best results for both the company and its employees.

Understanding the Importance of Compensation Communication

Pay is more than just money. Apart from the value it has, it also shows how much an employee is valued at work. Pay a reward for their hard work and a huge part of their job satisfaction. Because of this, the way pay is talked about can greatly affect how an employee feels about their job and their employer.

Clear and effective communication helps in various ways:

• Open communication about pays builds trust between employees and the company.
• When employees know how their pay is decided, they feel more motivated and valued.
• Clear communication can prevent misunderstandings that may cause unhappiness and people leaving their jobs.
• Good communication helps the company become compliant with fair pay and transparency laws.

The Role of Human Resources in Compensation Communication

Human Resources (HR) play a crucial role in communication. Acting as a link between the company's leaders and its workers, HR is in the best position to share pay information clearly and accurately.

Creating pay plans

HR creates pay plans that match the company's goals and market standards, including setting salary ranges , bonus plans, and benefits packages.

Training managers

They are responsible for training managers on how to communicate pay with their team . This includes teaching them about the company's pay policies and the reasons behind them.

Talking to employees directly

HR also discusses pay directly to employees especially during hiring, performance reviews, or when significant changes happen.

Following the law

The HR team ensures that all communication about pay follows laws and regulations, such as equal pay and non-discrimination laws.

The Manager's Role in Communicating Compensation

Managers are usually the first to talk to employees about pay. Their role is crucial because they directly work with their team and know how well each person performs and what they can contribute.

Talking about performance and pay

Managers must explain how an employee's work affects their pay. They need to inform employees about the criteria used to evaluate their performance and how it relates to raises, bonuses, and other rewards.

Giving clear explanations

Managers must clearly and honestly explain pay decisions. They need to discuss why certain choices were made and how they fit with the company's policies and market standards.

Handling sensitive talks

Pay discussions can be emotional. Managers need to handle these talks with care and professionalism, addressing any concerns or questions the employee may have.

Ongoing communication

Managers must regularly keep in touch, not just during annual reviews. Regular communication throughout the year helps employees understand how their performance affects their pay and what they can do to improve.

Preparing Managers for Compensation Discussions

To effectively fulfill their roles, managers need to be well-prepared. This preparation involves:

• Training on pay policies: Managers must be well-trained in the company's pay policies, understanding how pay is set and what factors influence pay decisions.
• Communication skills training: Managers must be trained in effective communication, especially in handling tough or sensitive pay discussions.
• Access to data and tools: Providing managers with the right data and tools helps them have better and more informed conversations with their team members.

Timing and Frequency of Compensation Communication

Key moments for compensation communication:

The first chance to talk about pay is during onboarding. New employees must be given a clear explanation of their salary, benefits, and other perks.

Annual performance reviews

A good time to have pay discussions is during annual reviews. During this time, employees expect to learn about raises, bonuses, and other rewards based on their work over the past year.

Promotions and role changes

When an employee gets promoted or changes roles, it's important to discuss how this affects their pay. This includes any salary changes, new benefits, or updates to bonus plans.

Companywide changes

Any notable changes happening to the company, including changes to benefits, salary ranges, or bonus criteria, must be clearly communicated to all employees as soon as possible.

Addressing Common Challenges in Compensation Communication

One big challenge in pay communication is dealing with disagreements and dissatisfaction. To be effective in handling these situations:

Be clear and honest

Explain compensation decisions clearly and in detail. Being clear helps employees understand why they are paid a certain way and reduces feelings of inequity.

Listen carefully

Allow employees to share their concerns and listen carefully to what they say. Understanding their point of view helps in dealing with their concerns effectively.

Show paths to progress

When an employee is unhappy with their pay, show them comprehensible ways to improve. Outline what they can do to earn more in the future.

Ensuring fair pay

Fair pay is crucial in how compensation is talked about. Companies must make sure everyone is given fair pay, no matter their gender, race, or other differences.

• Check regularly: Check pay practices often to find and solve any gaps or inequities.
• Set clear rules: Implement transparent pay rules that keep pay fair for everyone and make sure to inform employees about this.
• Teach everyone: Educate managers and other relevant HR workers on the importance of fair pay and factors that affect pay decisions.

Communicating compensation is a complex process that requires good planning along with transparent, constant communication. When everyone knows who says what and when, companies can improve their pay discussions, helping workers feel happier and at ease in their jobs.

When HR and managers team up, they can ensure effective and functional communication, which leaves employees in a satisfactory state knowing they are valued and paid right.

For more tips and insights on communicating compensation, check out our on-demand webinars .

Download the 2018 Turnover Report:

Download our 2018 Turnover Report to compare your organization's turnover rate with averages in your industry and geographic region. View national and regional numbers by industry for voluntary and total turnover, as well as five-year trends.

Download our white paper to further understand how organizations across the country are using market data, internal analytics, and strategic communication to establish an equitable pay structure.

Insights You Need to Get It Right

TAGS: CEO/CFO , Compensation Conscience , Human Resources

It's easy to get started.

More From Forbes

Understanding and implementing salary transparency and pay equity.

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

Tory Clarke, Co-Founder & Partner, Bridge Partners .

It’s hard to believe that in 2023 we still need to talk about a lack of pay equity—the principle that everyone, regardless of race, gender and age should be paid equally for doing the same work—in the workplace. The reality is that, on average, American women working full-time are paid 83.7% of what men are paid . This inequity affects Black and Hispanic women even more, as they're also more likely to be paid less than their white counterparts .

One of the most significant barriers to achieving pay equity is a lack of transparency. While salary range disclosures are required by law in states like New York and California, that's not the case nationwide or even globally. According to research from Equileap , only 28 companies worldwide (less than 1%) have closed their gender pay gap, and 78% of companies don't publish information on pay differences. Some employers remain reluctant to include salaries on job postings, so salary omissions—or excessively broad ranges that belie the intent of the laws—make identifying and addressing pay disparities difficult.

Companies must pay closer attention to this growing workplace crisis and commit to building an inclusive, equitable culture that enables the recruitment and retention of a diverse employee base.

The Value Of Salary Transparency

Among reluctant employers, publishing salary ranges or allowing employees to discuss their salaries creates a fear of losing competitive advantage or being scrutinized publicly. But the benefits of transparency far outweigh the challenges.

Pay transparency helps ensure employees are compensated fairly. When everyone knows how much their colleagues are paid, they can more easily identify and challenge any pay discrepancies. This will allow them to negotiate for higher, comparable salaries that recognize their expertise and tenure. This is crucial in helping close the gender and race pay gaps that plague the business world, and it will also help you attract top talent that values a commitment to pay equity.

As a result, morale and productivity improve. Employees who know they're equitably paid are more likely to be satisfied with their careers and encouraged to do their best work. It improves confidence in management, which in turn helps reduce turnover. On the other hand, pay secrecy may lead to team members suspecting they’re underpaid, resulting in unhappy and underperforming employees.

How To Engage In Salary Transparency And Pay Equity

Supporting your workforce through better clarity around salary takes intentionality. Here are some ways to champion pay equity through transparency:

• Make salary publication a requirement during recruitment. By publishing more accurate salary ranges for all teams, departments and job levels, you give potential and existing employees a better understanding of how they'll be compensated for their job. This also allows you to better align pay expectations with professional experience as well as identify any disparities that you can address.

• Remove the stigma of employees discussing their salaries. A culture of open communication about wages shares information around a shared fair salary structure that aligns experience and professional development with compensation. This can encourage your employees to feel comfortable talking to their managers and colleagues more freely about their salaries. You should take advantage of the demographic changes already driving this shift as younger generations enter the workforce; according to one study , 89% of Gen-Z workers are comfortable discussing salary, while only 53% of Baby Boomers are.

• Provide management training on how to fairly and equitably set salaries. In states where posting salary ranges is the law, ensure your people leaders are aware, compliant and able to communicate to employees effectively. Committing to ongoing training helps ensure salary decisions are based on experience, skills and performance rather than personal biases.

When employees know they're paid fairly, they're more likely to trust you and be loyal to your organization. Of course, there are challenges to promoting such transparency and changing an existing culture to one centered on pay equity. But even if you introduce and adopt it slowly, transparency and equity are valuable tools for creating a more equitable workplace.

Forbes Human Resources Council is an invitation-only organization for HR executives across all industries. Do I qualify?

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions

• Our Hiring Process
• Faculty Careers Site ↗
• View All Staff Jobs
• Join Talent Community
• Administrative
• Center for Talented Youth Summer Programs
• Development & Alumni Relations
• Facilities/Skilled Trades
• Grants & Contracts
• Health Care
• Human Resources
• Information Technology
• Student Services

Johns Hopkins strongly encourages, but no longer requires, at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. The seasonal flu vaccine requirement remains unchanged. Exceptions may be provided under certain circumstances.  Click here for more information.

• Join Our Talent Community
• Center for Talented Youth On-Campus Summer Programs
• Faculty Careers ↗
• Student Employment ↗
• Current JHU Employees: Internal Career Site ↗

Johns Hopkins strongly encourages, but no longer requires, at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. The seasonal flu vaccine requirement remains unchanged. Exceptions may be provided under certain circumstances.  Click here for more information. .

Sr. research program manager.

Housed in the Division of Infectious Diseases at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, the Center for Infectious Diseases in India (CIDI) is seeking a Sr. Research Program Manager to be part of a team with a base in Baltimore and locations across India. This person will manage the research portfolios of Dr. Amita Gupta and CIDI faculty. This includes a collaborative Hopkins-Indo research program comprising multiple clinical research sites and employing 200+ people in India, 10 staff (budget, regulatory, administration, media/communication) and research mentees in Baltimore to conduct HIV/TB/ID clinical trials and observational studies that improve outcomes among those affected by infectious diseases. Currently there over 70 active Indo-US collaborative studies. Projects include multi-country clinical trials of TB treatment and prevention in adults (including pregnant women) and children, prospective cohorts of HIV/TB cases and household contacts, as well as ID diagnostic and vaccine studies in India. The Sr. Research Program Manager must be capable of leveraging project management techniques to effectively manage and track small to large-scale projects across multi-disciplinary teams and international collaborations. Candidate must demonstrate ability to proactively identify and improve projects and processes. The Sr. Research Program Manager may participate in site visits in India and will collaborate with several partner institutions to help create efficient research systems and facilitate project goals. This individual will be a vital member of a face-paced multidisciplinary center of professionals and will manage all center research priorities from big picture to task levels.

Specific Duties & Responsibilities

• Oversee the technical details and management of Dr. Amita Gupta’s research portfolio. Including but not limited to,
• Work independently on a variety of complex level grants/contracts that range from simple to highly complex, including oversight of federal grants and private donation funds. These grants, contracts and awards may involve highly detailed budgets, multiple projects, Cores and Sub awards, Investigator-initiated, consortium projects, foundation grants, and clinical trials.
• 25-30% effort will be dedicated to managing the RePORT India Consortium funded by the NIH and Government of India. Coordinate among U.S. and Indian partners and external collaborators, oversee coordinating hub staff based in India, write SOPs, facilitate meetings to solicit input form PIs and create action plans, and actively participate in scientific working group meetings.
• Manage the NIH-funded investigator initiated CTRIUMPH and RePORT India multi-year prospective cohort studies and assist Director in relevant activities. Collaborate with study team members to analyze/interpret large longitudinal datasets.
• Assist with development, implementation, facilitation, and tracking protocols related to the JHU Clinical Trials Unit based in Pune, India. Work closely with PIs and site staff to identify challenges and collaborate with Baltimore-based and in-country teams to meet clinical trials targets.
• Work closely with the scientific, regulatory, and financial teams to ensure timely reporting to project sponsors, compliance with all regulatory requirements, and timely reporting and publication of study results.
• Attend scientific and project-specific conferences to support and further the needs of the portfolio.

Support of all CIDI-based faculty projects

• Work closely with the Managing Director to establish and maintain a central CIDI portfolio tracker of reporting, funding, submission, and regulatory deadlines across the center using project management software.
• Maintain good working knowledge of assigned study protocols and reporting requirements for all CIDI-based faculty.
• Support faculty during proposal development and implementation and support research staff across CIDI programs.
• Prepare written reports for study sponsors.
• In collaboration with CIDI faculty, plan, direct, and execute Annual Progress Report/non-competing and competing proposal submission processes.
• Track and manage multiple projects and project-related issues simultaneously. Develop project plans, timelines, presentations, and checklists for various program activities and coordinate across India and U.S. based investigators, regulatory, and finance staff.
• Manage proposal development process for complex multi-institutional grant proposals. Write and edit proposal sections, collect information from partners and subawardees, draft supporting documents/tables, biosketches, and letters of support.
• Manage all assigned grant submissions to ensure timeliness and accuracy. Assist faculty with pre-award proposal preparations and generate proposal checklists to ensure completeness of submissions. Provide instruction, preparation assistance, and support related to grant application procedures.
• Utilize scientific knowledge to edit scientific grants sections including specific aims, project summary, project narrative, and research strategy.
• Utilize knowledge of departmental, institutional and grant submission requirements to edit and correctly format other grant sections, such as equipment, facilities and resources, human subjects, vertebrate animals, resource sharing, authentication of key biological and/or chemical resources and scientific rigor and reproducibility.
• Design and create standard operating procedures and manual of operating procedures as related to program management, student exchanges, publications, sample shipments, and other research program needs. Oversee and provide input on knowledge management tasks led by Managing Director.
• Organize and meet regularly with study teams to review overall study progress via in-person site visits and teleconference calls.
• Assist Director in maintaining communication with affiliate institutions. Generate Powerpoint presentations as needed for both internal and external communications of project goals, accomplishments, and strategic plans.
• Collaborate with US- and India-based finance staff and investigators to develop budgets and justifications in line with protocol-specific aims, participant enrollment criteria, and overall center needs.
• Work with the in-country staff and Johns Hopkins India Private Limited (JHIPL) to operationalize necessary contracts and agreements for execution of project protocols.
• Develop job descriptions, screen/interview candidates, and recruit new staff to support CIDI, as needed.
• Directly supervises Sr. Research Program Coordinator II and mentors other CIDI-based research staff. Meet with these staff regularly, troubleshoot issues, co-develop work plans and professional development goals, and help prioritize tasks.

Special Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Demonstrated skills in oral and written communication.
• Ability to function independently with a high degree of motivation essential.
• Ability to manage a team is essential.
• Ability to manage multiple and competing priorities
• Excellent time management skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills
• Ability to work well with other professionals with minimal supervision.
• Comfortable being part of a diverse professional team.

This description is a general statement of required duties and responsibilities performed on a regular and continuous basis. It does not exclude other duties as assigned.

• Master's Degree in Public Health, Biotechnology, Epidemiology, Infectious Disease or related discipline.
• Eight years related experience including significant experience in field conducting large research projects.
• Experience conducting health-related research required.
• Proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office, reference managers, databases, spreadsheets, and word processing required.
• Mastery of clinical research practices and principles required.
• Must have ability to travel to India.
• PhD in related discipline.
• Experience with data management programs strongly desirable.
• Familiarity with scientific writing and communication.

Classified Title: Sr. Research Program Manager  Job Posting Title (Working Title): Sr. Research Program Manager    Role/Level/Range: ACRP/04/ME   Starting Salary Range: Min $64,000 - Max $112,200 Annually ($90,000 targeted; Commensurate with experience)  Employee group: Full Time  Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:30am-5:00pm  Exempt Status: Exempt  Location: Hybrid: On-site 3-4 days a week  Department name: 10002813-SOM DOM Infectious Disease  Personnel area: School of Medicine 

Total Rewards The referenced base salary range represents the low and high end of Johns Hopkins University’s salary range for this position. Not all candidates will be eligible for the upper end of the salary range. Exact salary will ultimately depend on multiple factors, which may include the successful candidate's geographic location, skills, work experience, market conditions, education/training and other qualifications. Johns Hopkins offers a total rewards package that supports our employees' health, life, career and retirement. More information can be found here: https://hr.jhu.edu/benefits-worklife/ .

Education and Experience Equivalency Please refer to the job description above to see which forms of equivalency are permitted for this position. If permitted, equivalencies will follow these guidelines: JHU Equivalency Formula: 30 undergraduate degree credits (semester hours) or 18 graduate degree credits may substitute for one year of experience. Additional related experience may substitute for required education on the same basis. For jobs where equivalency is permitted, up to two years of non-related college course work may be applied towards the total minimum education/experience required for the respective job.

Applicants Completing Studies Applicants who do not meet the posted requirements but are completing their final academic semester/quarter will be considered eligible for employment and may be asked to provide additional information confirming their academic completion date.

Background Checks The successful candidate(s) for this position will be subject to a pre-employment background check. Johns Hopkins is committed to hiring individuals with a justice-involved background, consistent with applicable policies and current practice. A prior criminal history does not automatically preclude candidates from employment at Johns Hopkins University. In accordance with applicable law, the university will review, on an individual basis, the date of a candidate's conviction, the nature of the conviction and how the conviction relates to an essential job-related qualification or function.

Diversity and Inclusion The Johns Hopkins University values diversity, equity and inclusion and advances these through our key strategic framework, the JHU Roadmap on Diversity and Inclusion .

Equal Opportunity Employer All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

EEO is the Law https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2023-06/22-088_EEOC_KnowYourRights6.12ScreenRdr.pdf

Accommodation Information If you are interested in applying for employment with The Johns Hopkins University and require special assistance or accommodation during any part of the pre-employment process, please contact the Talent Acquisition Office at [email protected] . For TTY users, call via Maryland Relay or dial 711. For more information about workplace accommodations or accessibility at Johns Hopkins University, please visit https://accessibility.jhu.edu/ .

Vaccine Requirements Johns Hopkins University strongly encourages, but no longer requires, at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. The COVID-19 vaccine does not apply to positions located in the State of Florida. We still require all faculty, staff, and students to receive the seasonal flu vaccine . Exceptions to the COVID and flu vaccine requirements may be provided to individuals for religious beliefs or medical reasons. Requests for an exception must be submitted to the JHU vaccination registry.  This change does not apply to the School of Medicine (SOM). SOM hires must be fully vaccinated with an FDA COVID-19 vaccination and provide proof of vaccination status. For additional information, applicants for SOM positions should visit https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/coronavirus/covid-19-vaccine/  and all other JHU applicants should visit https://covidinfo.jhu.edu/health-safety/covid-vaccination-information/ .

The following additional provisions may apply, depending upon campus. Your recruiter will advise accordingly. The pre-employment physical for positions in clinical areas, laboratories, working with research subjects, or involving community contact requires documentation of immune status against Rubella (German measles), Rubeola (Measles), Mumps, Varicella (chickenpox), Hepatitis B and documentation of having received the Tdap (Tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis) vaccination. This may include documentation of having two (2) MMR vaccines; two (2) Varicella vaccines; or antibody status to these diseases from laboratory testing. Blood tests for immunities to these diseases are ordinarily included in the pre-employment physical exam except for those employees who provide results of blood tests or immunization documentation from their own health care providers. Any vaccinations required for these diseases will be given at no cost in our Occupational Health office.

• Careers Home
• Current Employees
• Clery Notice
• Sustainability

© Copyright 2024