Program Information
What will I learn and how can I use it?
The MS in HRD program develops professionals to lead and implement strategies for talent development, talent management, and organizational performance. Students gain skills in data analysis, problem-solving, intervention design, and evaluating the impact of HRD strategies, preparing them to address challenges such as embedding learning into work, addressing performance gaps, and driving organizational change.
What is the format of the program?
The program is available in a hybrid format, allowing students to participate in face-to-face classes and synchronous online sessions.
Is the program designed for working professionals?
Yes. The MS in Human Resource Development is designed for working professionals and offers evening courses with hybrid and fully online options. Students can apply course projects directly to their current HR and HRD practice.
How many credits and courses are required?
The program requires 30 credit hours, completed through 10 graduate courses. Students take eight core courses and two approved electives.
How long does it take to finish the program?
Most students complete the MS in Human Resource Development in 12–24 months, depending on how many courses they take each semester. Full time and part time paths are available.
What career paths does this degree support?
Graduates pursue roles in Human Resource Development, Learning and Development, Organizational Development, Talent Management, Recruitment, Digital Learning, Career Development, and Employee Engagement. Alumni work in major Houston area companies and global organizations.
How long is the program?
The program typically takes 16–24 months to complete, depending on the number of courses taken each semester and whether students study full time or part time.
What is the course sequence?
The recommended course sequence ensures students build foundational knowledge early on. Students entering in Fall or Spring semesters can follow tailored sequences. Learn more.
Where are the classes held?
Courses are offered at the University of Houston Sugar Land campus and include synchronous online components. You remain a UH student; only the location of your classes is at the Sugar Land campus.
What is special about the UH at Sugar Land location?
The MS in Human Resource Development is offered at the University of Houston at Sugar Land, a UH instructional site with modern facilities, convenient parking, and easy access for professionals in the Fort Bend and greater Houston region. Students are University of Houston students and have access to UH resources while attending classes at the Sugar Land campus.
Who are the faculty?
Faculty are experts with research and work experience in the areas of leadership, performance improvement, training, and organization development.
Who should I contact for more information?
Please contact Dr. Melika Shirmohammadi at mshirmoh [at] central.uh.edu (mshirmoh[at]central[dot]uh[dot]edu) for questions.
Admissions/Application
What are the application deadlines?
- Fall: July 15 (Domestic) / April 1 (International)
- Spring: December 1 (Domestic) / October 1 (International)
What are the admission requirements?
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 (Conditional admission for GPAs between 2.75–2.99)
- Three letters of recommendation
- Personal/goal statement (1–2 pages)
- Official transcripts from all prior coursework. Scanned copies of official transcripts can be uploaded as PDF files and may be used by programs to make admission decisions. If admitted, however, you will not be able to enroll without the official transcript(s) showing undergraduate degree conferral on file.
- English proficiency scores (TOEFL: 79, IELTS: 6.5, or equivalent for international applicants)
Is the GRE/GMAT required?
No, the GRE/GMAT requirement has been suspended for applicants.
Who should write my recommendation letters?
Recommendation letters should come from professors, employers, or other professionals familiar with your qualifications.
Course Information
What are the required courses?
Core courses include:
- HRD 6301: Leadership Development in HRD
- HRD 6302: Design and Management of Learning using Artificial Intelligence
- HRD 6303: Assessment and Evaluation in Training
- HRD 6304: Applied Research Methods in Organizations
- HRD 6305: Organization Development and Change
- HRD 6352: Instructional Design for the Learning and Development Professionals
- HRD 6353: Methods of Adult Learning
- HDCS 6300: Quantitative and Statistical Methods for Training and Development
Are electives available?
Yes, students must complete six advanced hours of electives, which must be approved by a graduate faculty advisor. Examples include:
- HRD 6356: Consulting and Professional Practice
- HRD 6354: Facilitation of Global Team Processes and Change
Is there an internship option?
Yes. An internship can be taken as an elective option for students who want structured practice experience in HRD related roles. Students should discuss internship timing and fit with their program coordinator or advisor.
Is there a thesis option?
A thesis is not required, but students who are interested in research or doctoral study may pursue a thesis option in consultation with the program coordinator and a faculty advisor.
Expense and Financial Aid
What is the cost of the program?
The University of Houston System Board of Regents sets and approves program costs each year. Please use the Tuition and Fees Calculator selecting Engineering-Technology Division for the college you plan to attend, graduate level and on-campus format for more detailed estimates.
How do I obtain financial aid?
Federal loans may be available to students who are U.S. Citizens or permanent residents. To begin the aid process, students need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid at studentaid.gov. The UH school code is 003652.
What are typical program cost ranges?
Actual tuition and fees vary by semester and enrollment. Many students complete the MS in Human Resource Development with an estimated total cost in the range of approximately 22,000–27,000 USD for residents. All students should use the UH Tuition and Fees Calculator, selecting the Engineering – Technology Division, graduate level, and on campus format for the most accurate estimate.
What other funding options are available?
In addition to federal loans, students may be eligible for graduate assistantships, work study positions, UH Graduate School funding for eligible Texas residents, and employer tuition assistance programs. International students may also have access to scholarships and on campus employment opportunities.
Can I use my veteran’s benefits
You may be eligible to use your veteran’s benefits. For more information about veteran’s benefits for study at the University of Houston, please contact the UH Veteran’s Affairs Office by email at UHGIBILL [at] UH.EDU (UHGIBILL[at]UH[dot]EDU), or in person at the Welcome Center.
Information for International Students
What are the specific requirements for international students?
In addition to application items mentioned above, international students must pay a $75 international applicant fee and may be required to submit TOEFL / IELTS / DUOLINGO scores and have non-U.S. transcripts evaluated and translated. For international graduate applicants, the University of Houston Graduate School has approved the Duolingo English Test for English proficiency exams. Duolingo English Tests are valid for two years from the date the test was taken.
What are the application deadlines for international students?
- Fall: April 1
- Spring: October 1
Where can I find more information?
For guidance on international applications, visas, and English language proficiency, visit the UH Graduate School International Applicants website or contact International Student and Scholar Services.