phd after mba in hr

Best Online Doctorate in Human Resources

Graduates of a terminal degree in human resources (HR) qualify for top executive management jobs. Many schools offer Ph.D.s or doctorates in HR as a specialization of business administration. This degree is ideal for organized, communicative, tech-savvy professionals.

Professionals holding a doctorate in HR can excel in corporate, research, or academic careers. Most students reach mid- or late-career status before pursuing a doctoral program, which can take 4-6 years to complete. Accelerated and affordable online doctorates in human resources can enable students to graduate faster.

Human resources professionals with a doctoral education often assume chief executive roles. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports median annual wages of $136,350 for human resource managers in May 2023. The BLS also projects that HR manager positions will likely grow 6% from 2023-2033.

Read on to explore what you can expect from an advanced business degree , including common courses you’ll find at top online schools and typical admission requirements for these programs.

Featured Online HR Doctorate Programs

Best accredited online doctorate in human resources programs.

Rankings compiled by the the BestColleges Ranking Team

National University

In-State $11,064
Out-of-state $11,064
In-State $16,983
Out-of-state $16,983
Retention Rate N/A
Acceptance Rate N/A
Students Enrolled 12,471
Institution Type Private

Liberty University

Campus + Online
In-State $14,791
Out-of-state $14,791
In-State $7,935
Out-of-state $7,935
Retention Rate 81%
Acceptance Rate 50%
Students Enrolled 93,349

Bellevue University

In-State $7,176
Out-of-state $7,176
In-State $10,710
Out-of-state $10,710
Retention Rate 51%
Students Enrolled 13,059

Regent University

In-State $17,220
Out-of-state $17,220
In-State $15,552
Out-of-state $15,552
Retention Rate 77%
Students Enrolled 10,483

University of Arkansas-Fort Smith

In-State $4,104
Out-of-state $11,376
In-State $7,092
Out-of-state $11,394
Retention Rate 74%
Students Enrolled 5,887
Institution Type Public

Thomas Edison State University

In-State $7,182
Out-of-state $9,342
In-State $12,024
Out-of-state $12,024
Students Enrolled 10,495

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

In-State $14,317
Out-of-state $33,824
In-State $15,016
Out-of-state $27,187
Retention Rate 94%
Acceptance Rate 63%
Students Enrolled 52,679

How We Rank Schools

At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.

We use datasets from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools and our methodologies. This ranking is from 2021. To learn more, check out our full ranking methodologies.

What Can I Expect From an Online Doctorate in Human Resources Program?

A doctorate in human resources covers the most advanced techniques and strategies for managing talent within an organization. Students typically pursue a terminal degree in human resources to sharpen and diversify their recruiting, onboarding, and organizational management skills. They may also hone their skills in a specialization like training and development or benefits and compensation.

Schools commonly offer doctoral HR degrees as a Ph.D. in HR management or organizational management, or a doctor of business administration ( DBA ) in human resources. Within these degree types, popular concentrations include:

Human Resources Management
Organizational Management
Training and Development
Benefits and Compensation
Higher Education

As is common among doctoral programs, the structure and length of a doctorate in HR varies, depending on each candidate’s experience and specialization. Generally, doctorates take at least four years to complete, though online doctorates in HR are more likely to offer accelerated paths to graduation than a traditional degree.

Some elements of the Ph.D. and DBA in HR differ in name only, as all doctoral programs in this discipline emphasize foundational coursework in the theory and practice of human resources. Generally, a Ph.D. explores a more theoretical approach, while a DBA stresses practical skills. Doctoral candidates enjoy the freedom to focus on an area of expertise that aligns with their individual career goals.

Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Degree Programs.

What courses will i take in an online doctorate in human resources program, compensation management.

HR professionals must master the development, execution, and management of employee compensation and benefits programs. Course topics include base pay benchmarks, discretionary benefits, and the organizational elements of compensation systems.

Foundations of Human Resources Theory and Practice

Students in this course explore contemporary issues in human resources that affect the relationships between employers, HR professionals, and employees. Topics include economic and social change as well as technological innovations in human resources.

Creating Adaptive Workplaces

The ability to cultivate an adaptive and innovative workspace is critical for HR professionals in the 21st century. Students in this course explore management strategies for optimizing employee engagement, communication, and career development through traditional and virtual work environments.

Recruiting and Retaining Talent

Attracting and preserving human resources are among the primary tasks of HR managers. This course explores the most effective recruitment techniques for a variety of types of employers. Students also learn how to implement mutually-beneficial performance evaluation strategies.

Organizational Behavior and Performance

This course explores the theory and practice of long term performance improvement strategies. Students learn to set employee performance standards, propose improvement tools, and assess employee and staff performance through reviews and interventions.

Find the Tools You Need to Get Started on Your Degree

What are the admission requirements for an online doctorate in human resources program.

Generally, admission into a doctoral HR program requires students to submit materials including transcripts, a resume, and letters of recommendation. Most programs require or prefer a master’s degree in HR and field experience. Doctoral programs may require test scores such as the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) .

Many online programs maintain admission requirements beyond those of a traditional degree, such as a virtual interview or orientation. Below are some of the most common admission requirements.

Application

Doctoral program applicants will usually need to fill out an online application form. At the graduate level, each program typically has its own application instead of using a common application system. Online programs may require a virtual interview and/or prerequisites like distance education orientation coursework.

Test Scores

Some online doctorates in human resources require standardized test scores . Doctoral programs commonly require scores from tests such as the GMAT or Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) , the equivalent of SAT or ACT scores for undergraduates. As a management field, HR programs typically prefer GMAT over GRE scores .

Letters of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation are necessary for admission into most doctoral and Ph.D. programs. Doctoral candidates typically request letters of recommendation from current or former professors, mentors, or advisors, since many students are pending or recent master’s degree graduates. Students may also ask employers, coaches, or counselors for references. Sources need at least 2-3 months to provide letters of recommendation.

Resume and Work Experience

Ph.D. or doctoral candidates can expect to provide an updated resume with their application. While doctoral programs do not always specify work experience requirements, admissions officers commonly review a candidate’s resume for professional skills and experience in HR and management. Naturally, applicants should highlight any high-level HR experience on their resume and consider including HR employers as references.

Like admissions essays for undergraduate programs convey a student’s academic potential, essays for a doctorate should outline a student’s distinct career or research goals. Admissions officers look for candidates with a clear path toward academic success; however, students may change their area of expertise as their interests develop after enrollment.

Official Transcripts

Doctorates in human resources always require official transcripts. Most doctoral programs require students to hold a master’s degree for admission; however, students may pursue a doctorate in human resources after a prolonged absence due to work or postgraduate studies.

Some doctoral programs accept credits transferred from a master’s degree or life experience, though applicants should review their school’s credit transfer policy .

What Can I Do With an Online Doctorate in Human Resources Degree?

Career outlook.

Doctoral degree graduates often pursue high-level HR occupations . While entry-level HR careers generally do not require more than a bachelor’s degree, large corporations and global organizations prefer candidates with an advanced degree and extensive experience for top executive management roles.

Chief HR officers work with other high-level executives like CEOs to manage companies. Nonprofit organizations often call professionals in this position HR directors. Such top executives can earn annual salaries of nearly $103,840.

Among the following common careers for doctors of HR, college professors earn the lowest salary but still exceed the national average income .

Explore what you can do with an online degree in human resources .

Career Paths

Professor of business.

Graduates of doctoral human resources programs can become postsecondary teachers in fields like business or management. Professors commonly specialize in teaching human resources as part of a DBA or Ph.D. program. Postsecondary teachers typically require a doctoral education.

Median Annual Salary: $84,380

Chief Human Resources Officer

Chief HR officers rank among fellow top executives like CEOs, CFOs, and executive directors. They oversee the long term operations of human resources departments for global corporations, major nonprofit organizations, and large businesses. They require expertise in employment law, corporate compliance, and employee benefits and policies.

Median Annual Salary: $103,840

Training and Development Manager

Training and development managers plan and coordinate staff training programs. They develop budgets for such programs and work closely with training and development specialists to create appropriate knowledge-enhancement materials. Many employers prefer candidates with a graduate education in an HR specialization for management positions.

Median Annual Salary: $125,040

Human Resources Manager

Human resources managers oversee all high-level HR operations within an organization. They act as liaisons between the employer and employees, and oversee functions including recruiting, hiring, training, and payroll and benefits services. Many employers prefer candidates with an advanced human resources bachelor’s degree or an MBA in HR management.

Median Annual Salary: $136,350

Director of Human Resources

HR directors perform duties similar to chief HR officers in corporate roles, but typically for nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, or humanitarian groups. They oversee institutional HR operations including recruiting, staffing, compliance, and professional development programs. Candidates typically require an advanced education and experience.

Average Annual Salary: $100,410 (as of April 2024)

Human Resources Not For You? Check Out These Related Careers.

Continuing education.

As a terminal degree, a doctorate in human resources is the highest level of formal education available to HR professionals. However, students may supplement their doctoral degree with specialized HR expertise through a graduate or postgraduate certificate program.

Work experience is also highly valued in the field of human resources. Organizations including HR Certification Institute (HRCI) and the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) offer optional professional certification. Choices include HRCI’s senior professional in human resources and SHRM senior certified professional.

How Do I Choose an Online Doctorate in Human Resources Program?

Doctoral degrees are notoriously expensive, since they exceed the minimum entry-level job requirements for most occupations. While the average cost of a doctorate exceeds $133,340, online programs often cut costs significantly through accelerated paths to graduation and set tuition rates. Factors including location and experience also affect the true cost of both traditional and online doctorates in human resources.

Program Format

Doctoral candidates can pursue a degree through a variety of delivery methods. Schools may offer synchronous (live) or asynchronous (pre-recorded) courses , or a combination, online. Students may be able to choose which learning style suits them best. Most doctorates in human resources offer flexible enrollment options for full- and part-time students.

While much of the coursework in a doctorate in human resources can occur online, most programs require at least some on-campus attendance. For example, students may need to visit campus to meet with advisors or present their dissertation. Additionally, doctoral candidates may simply prefer working and studying in the same geographic area.

Accreditation

First and foremost, students should pursue only schools that hold national or regional accreditation . The process of earning regional accreditation is more rigorous and, therefore, makes it more preferable. Doctorates in human resources may also acquire programmatic accreditation through agencies like the International Accreditation Council for Business Education, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, or the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.

Student Support

Student support is especially critical in an online doctorate in human resources. Regardless of a student’s specialization or experience, doctoral candidates can expect to communicate often with their school’s professors, advisors, and mentors. Support services for online doctoral students also often includes access to networking, professional development, and alumni events.

FAQ’s About Doctorate in Human Resources Programs

Is a doctorate in human resources worth it.

Yes, a doctorate in human services qualifies graduates for high-level jobs in corporate management and higher education. While most entry-level HR jobs require only a bachelor’s degree , advanced positions such as HR director or business professor typically require a master’s or doctoral degree and extensive work experience. Doctoral programs emphasize advanced management skills in recruiting and development, conflict resolution, and benefits and compensation.

What can I do with a doctorate in human resources?

Graduates with a doctorate in human resources can become chief HR officers, HR directors or managers, or college professors. A doctoral program prepares graduates to assume the highest-level management positions within a global corporation or nonprofit organization, as chief HR officers or executive directors of human resources. HR professionals may specialize in fields like training and development or benefits and compensation. Professors may teach strictly human resources courses or specialize in the business of HR, such as through an MBA.

How long does it take to get a doctorate in human resources online?

Most doctorates or PH.D.s take 4-6 years to complete, though completion times vary by program, concentration, and experience. Students may qualify to apply transfer credits toward completing a doctorate in human resources in less time than a traditional program. Additionally, many online doctorates in human resources offer accelerated programs through options like full-time or flex enrollment, or competency-based learning models.

How much money can I make with a doctorate in human resources?

A doctorate in human resources can lead to annual earnings between $80,000 and $200,000. Graduates of a doctoral program qualify for top-tier positions in higher education and executive administration, commensurate with a high income. For example, HR professionals with a terminal degree can become college professors , HR managers, or chief HR officers.

What are the highest paying jobs with a doctorate in human resources?

Chief human resources officers can earn an annual salary of nearly $103,840. Generally, holding a doctoral degree qualifies job candidates for exclusive, high-paying jobs at the top of their field. Among the many diverse, high-earning careers available to doctoral degree graduates, chief PR executives and directors at global corporations and large nonprofit organizations enjoy the highest salaries.

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Organizational Behavior
Technology & Operations Management

Students in our PhD programs are encouraged from day one to think of this experience as their first job in business academia—a training ground for a challenging and rewarding career generating rigorous, relevant research that influences practice.

Our doctoral students work with faculty and access resources throughout HBS and Harvard University. The PhD program curriculum requires coursework at HBS and other Harvard discipline departments, and with HBS and Harvard faculty on advisory committees. Faculty throughout Harvard guide the programs through their participation on advisory committees.

How do I know which program is right for me?

There are many paths, but we are one HBS. Our PhD students draw on diverse personal and professional backgrounds to pursue an ever-expanding range of research topics. Explore more here about each program’s requirements & curriculum, read student profiles for each discipline as well as student research , and placement information.

The PhD in Business Administration grounds students in the disciplinary theories and research methods that form the foundation of an academic career. Jointly administered by HBS and GSAS, the program has four areas of study: Accounting and Management , Marketing , Strategy , and Technology and Operations Management . All areas of study involve roughly two years of coursework culminating in a field exam. The remaining years of the program are spent conducting independent research, working on co-authored publications, and writing the dissertation. Students join these programs from a wide range of backgrounds, from consulting to engineering. Many applicants possess liberal arts degrees, as there is not a requirement to possess a business degree before joining the program

The PhD in Business Economics provides students the opportunity to study in both Harvard’s world-class Economics Department and Harvard Business School. Throughout the program, coursework includes exploration of microeconomic theory, macroeconomic theory, probability and statistics, and econometrics. While some students join the Business Economics program directly from undergraduate or masters programs, others have worked in economic consulting firms or as research assistants at universities or intergovernmental organizations.

The PhD program in Health Policy (Management) is rooted in data-driven research on the managerial, operational, and strategic issues facing a wide range of organizations. Coursework includes the study of microeconomic theory, management, research methods, and statistics. The backgrounds of students in this program are quite varied, with some coming from public health or the healthcare industry, while others arrive at the program with a background in disciplinary research

The PhD program in Organizational Behavior offers two tracks: either a micro or macro approach. In the micro track, students focus on the study of interpersonal relationships within organizations and the effects that groups have on individuals. Students in the macro track use sociological methods to examine organizations, groups, and markets as a whole, including topics such as the influence of individuals on organizational change, or the relationship between social missions and financial objectives. Jointly administered by HBS and GSAS, the program includes core disciplinary training in sociology or psychology, as well as additional coursework in organizational behavior.

Accounting & Management

Business economics , health policy (management) , marketing , organizational behavior , strategy , technology & operations management .

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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

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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
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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

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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.

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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.

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Is it Possible to Get My PhD After My MBA?

In academia, numerous accomplishments can be achieved. You can earn a dual degree and have expertise in multiple fields, or further your career potential by going back to school . But what about progressing from an MBA to a PhD?

In regards to higher education, many consider earning a PhD, or doctorate degree, the pinnacle of success. Usually, due to passion for a particular industry or subject, a PhD candidate will spend years of rigorous research to unpack its intricacies and become a leading expert in the field. At the end of their studies, they are able to finally see their work come to fruition when they receive their doctorate and join alongside other scholars. However, is it typical for an MBA graduate to move onto pursuing their PhD? And is there a specific purpose? Are there different types of PhD programs? What is the difference between a PhD and DBA?

To answer the budding question: yes, you can pursue your PhD after earning your MBA, and choosing to earn a doctorate is entirely up to you and your aspirations. To help you better understand if getting a PhD is the right choice, we look at the path an MBA graduate can take to earn their PhD, one of the higher purposes of a doctorate, and the different types of academic programs.

What is a PhD, and What is it Used For?

By definition, a PhD is a Doctor of Philosophy in a particular discipline, which is why it's also referred to as a doctorate. This focus is typically for individuals highly passionate about a specific subject matter, driven by the pursuit to understand it better through rigorous research. A majority of students seeking their PhD are eager researchers, although there are always exceptions, and each carries out years of highly intensive research to conclude their original thesis and earn their doctorate.

In terms of translating your education into a career, a doctorate can be used in a plethora of fields, especially if one’s thesis is around a wider subject matter and can be a discipline applied to various industries (take organizational development, for example). For those who are passionate about a career in research, a doctoral degree is a perfect fit. Possibly the most popular field for those with a doctorate is a fruitful career in academia, teaching their subject matter to others interested in the same area. Many graduates become faculty members at business schools upon completing their PhD and provide their expertise to their students. Regardless of which industry you choose, you can be assured that a PhD will provide you with numerous opportunities.

How Long Does it Take to Progress from an MBA to PhD?

The timeframe for earning your PhD can vary depending on program and location. Many countries have varying timelines of how long the completion of a doctoral program will take. In the United States, the average is around 4-5 years of completion after receiving your Master of Business Administration.

Do You Need an MBA to Get a PhD?

To be accepted into a doctoral program, you must have a master’s degree. It does not have to be a Master of Business Administration, but it does need to be a master’s of some form. Depending on your area of specialization, it could be advantageous to earn your MBA in pursuit of a PhD if you are planning to embark on a career in business upon completion of your doctorate. Additionally, one important aspect to consider is the program itself. It is important to look into a program’s requirements before applying to meet the eligibility criteria.

The Difference Between a DBA and a PhD

For those specifically interested in a career in business, a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is a highly beneficial doctoral program. A DBA focuses on a broader spectrum of business disciplines, dedicating research toward multiple corporate facets, and practical implementation. On the contrary, a PhD narrows into a specific area of discipline and research, emphasizing theory, and it’s potential implications. While both are heavily centered around research and implementation, a DBA sets business executives and leaders on a path to discover new possibilities for their organizations and businesses. In a way, it allows established business professionals to “trailblaze” the way for new and innovative ideas that can disrupt the market and set a precedent for the future of business.

Get Your MBA or DBA at Pepperdine Graziadio Business School

At Pepperdine Graziadio, we proudly offer degrees to accommodate business professionals at any stage of their lives and careers. Our full and part-time MBA programs are designed to prepare candidates for a successful career in values-based business leadership. All of our MBA programs offer a personalized learning approach executed by our world-class faculty. Each program is characterized by its top-ranked business curriculum that can be coupled with an academic concentration.

Our Executive Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program has been carefully designed for the tenured business leader looking to drive groundbreaking innovations. This rigorous program allows candidates to gain in-depth knowledge and finetune their expertise through applied research. Also, executives enjoy learning alongside changemakers in various industries and participating in exclusive opportunities available only to DBA candidates.

Learn more about which programs fit your career aspirations and academic interests.

Learn more about how to achieve your career goals with a degree from Pepperdine Graziadio Business School.

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Ph.D. in Human Resource Management

Program information.

The doctoral program in human resource management (HRM) prepares students for success in research universities as faculty members specializing in human resources. Doctoral students work closely with faculty to gain research and teaching expertise in the various functions and activities carried out as part of HRM, including the relationship between these practices and organizational strategies, cultures, and performance.

Many HRM scholars specialize or focus on more micro-level work, such as researching the impact of specific HR practices (e.g., selection or training techniques) on individual-level measures of satisfaction or performance. Alternatively, macro-level HR (i.e., “strategic HRM”) scholars study the effects of systems of HR policies and practices on organizational-level outcomes. KU faculty have expertise at both levels, as evidenced by publications in prestigious outlets.

Application deadlines

Priority: December 15

Final: January 10

Application requirements

Doctoral students work closely with faculty to gain research expertise in the various functions and activities carried out as part of HRM with a focus on the attraction, selection, retention, development, motivation, and utilization of individuals in organizations.

Part of our mission is to develop effective teachers. To that end, all doctoral students are required to teach at least two sections as independent instructors. The school and university prepare and reward doctoral students for excellence in teaching through various programs and awards.

Program details

View degree requirements and a detailed list of courses in the KU Academic Catalog .

Human Resource Management core courses note: BE 917: Business Economics, is preferred. Students coming into the program directly from an undergraduate degree may consider substituting BE 701: Business Economics, or ECON 700: Survey of Microeconomics. In the event a student has taken a graduate economics course prior to enrolling as a KU doctoral student, she/he may waive the requirement and substitute either an elective doctoral content course or a statistics/research methods course for this requirement.