Online Doctorate Degree in Human Resources

phd online human resources

Online Human Resources Doctorate Degree: An Overview

Jobs for human resources degree holders, degree requirements, prerequisites for an online human resources doctorate degree, online coursework.

  • Human resources management in the 21st century.
  • Compensation and benefits.
  • Labor relations.
  • Legal issues in human resources management.
  • Technology systems in human resources and workforce development.
  • Career theory and decision-making.
  • Organizational behavior performance and evaluation.
  • Human resources talent management.

How long does an online doctorate in human resources take to complete?

Cost and return on investment (roi), how much does a doctorate in human resources cost , how to estimate the roi of your degree, job outlook and salary, example courses.

  • Advanced theoretical foundations of human resources development
  • Human resources and workforce development ethical and legal issues
  • Quality management and productivity
  • Quantitative research techniques
  • Contemporary perspectives in organizational leadership theory

What Online Human Resources Doctorate Degree Holders Have to Say

“I apply what I learned in school in everything I do at work. For example, one of the committees I’m on now is charged with a large implementation project. At the forefront of my mind are the tenets of change management and the ingredients for sustainable change. The coursework provided me the confidence and knowledge to contribute in ways that would have never been possible otherwise. I’m better at thinking through concepts and specific steps that are crucial in exacting sustainable change. I feel like I’m more valuable in teams because I bring a different perspective.“I learned a great deal about change management and theory, the importance of adequately preparing an environment and its stakeholders for change, and ways to exact healthy change. We live in a state of flux, and navigating change can be difficult. A monumental thing that stood out as I got deeper into the program was how successful change can be when organizations and their leadership teams make commitments to effectively communicate, practice transparency and honor stakeholders…not just in words, but in actions. In the real world these things don’t always happen or there wouldn’t be entire programs teaching the subject matter, but think of the possibilities if they did.”
“The business and industry training coursework was very helpful for me especially as I pursued new leadership positions in the training space at work. However, the most significant learning came through the dissertation process. From topic selection, learning and applying research practices, recognizing the value of academic writing, and ‘"owning’" my expertise, I had no other option but to pull from my own motivation and efficacy. I routinely use all of the skills gleaned from this process today - post graduation: initiative, composure, persistence, confidence, and empathy.”
“A piece of advice I would have for prospective students would be to select a research topic before starting the program so you can focus on that topic throughout the program.“Something I learned in school that applies to my work today is the importance of understanding what I am attempting to solve when designing programs or creating strategies.”

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  • PhD in Business Management
  • Human Resource Management

Human Resource Management Doctor of Philosophy in Business Management

Capella’s online PhD in Business Management, Human Resource Management equips you with skills to develop winning teams and empower people to do their best work. This program builds on a curriculum of ethics, research, and practice in the human resource field – including a focus on diverse perspectives, new technologies, and emerging trends in the workplace. Our rigorous coursework will help you fuse theory and practice to form a basis for your own research and become an expert in global workforce issues.

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Virtual Residencies

Network with faculty and peers, and gain access to valuable resources to use during your program and beyond, through three doctoral virtual residencies.

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Research mentor

Maintain progress through your dissertation; we’ll pair you with an academic mentor who can help you keep your momentum.

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Stay on track with your academic goals and dissertation; we’ll help you organize your work into manageable segments.

Use the code WINTER  to waive the $50 application fee.

At a glance

  • 11 Core courses
  • 12 max transfer credits
  • 4 Specialization courses
  • 1 Elective course
  • 3 Virtual Residencies

Comprehensive exam

Dissertation

  • ACBSP-accredited

Reduce your tuition by $20,000

Enroll in a qualified program and apply for a $20K Capella Progress Reward, a scholarship to help fund your doctoral degree. Eligibility rules and exclusions apply. Connect with us for details.

Courses and skills

Explore human resource management courses.

  • This degree requires at least 90 program credits
  • You’ll need to complete 11 core courses, four specialization courses, one elective course, three virtual residencies, one comprehensive exam and one dissertation

View all courses

What you'll learn

This specialization prepares you to lead high-performance teams in diverse business settings. You’ll learn practical solutions to workplace challenges, evaluate new technology trends, and develop a systematic approach to problem-solving in the field.

On successful completion of this program, you should be able to:

  • Synthesize multidisciplinary theories that inform and shape theory and practice to attract, develop, and retain a global work force
  • Synthesize emerging trends and technological influences to advance the theory and practice of global Human Resource Management
  • Evaluate diverse demographic and cultural perspectives to advance the body of knowledge and practice in global human resource management
  • Exhibit proficiency in academic research, writing, and critical thinking skills
  • Evaluate ethical theories and frameworks that guide human resources practices in the 21st century
  • Integrate research and practices into the development of adaptive and innovative global workplace environments

Review the Capella career exploration guide  to learn more about this program and professional paths to explore.

Tuition and learning format

How much does the phd in business management cost.

The total cost of your degree will depend on academic performance, transfer credits, scholarships and other factors. See GuidedPath cost information below.

A structured learning format with an active peer community and faculty guidance. We’ll set the schedule, you meet the deadlines.

  • Based on the quarter system; 1-2 courses per 10-week quarter
  • 1 semester credit = 1.5 quarter credits
  • Weekly assignments and courseroom discussions
  • Pay for what you take, price varies by courseload or term

$985 per credit,  $5,000  quarterly tuition max, 75 coursework credits, 12 max transfer credits

Learn more about GuidedPath »

Tuition breakdown

Program phases.

$985 Per quarter credit

75 coursework credits; dissertation is additional

Per quarter credit

$2955 Per quarter

Per quarter

Resource kit fee

$175 Per quarter

Coursework phase only; includes eBooks, textbooks, interactive media, software, course packs, articles, test kits, and other instructional materials

Application fee

$50 One-time fee

One-time fee

Tuition and program length are unique to you

Your total tuition and program length depend on a variety of factors:

  • The program specialization you choose
  • Scholarships and finances
  • Prior coursework
  • Transfer credits
  • Employer and/or military benefits
  • Number of quarters spent working on dissertation
  • Complexity of your dissertation
  • Academic performance
  • School/work/life balance
  • Unexpected life events

About cost scenarios

The cost scenarios below are examples based on general program pricing and 2023–24 Capella tuition rates, and assume the average number of transfer credits a student brings into the program. Pacing information is current as of January 1, 2023. These rates are the same nationwide and may change depending on factors affecting program length and price. You are responsible for paying your own travel costs related to residencies, including plane, hotel, and food expenses.

To discuss whether the specialization you’re interested in has additional factors that may affect program cost and length, contact a Capella enrollment counselor.

Cost scenarios

*Eligibility rules apply. Connect with us for details.

Get the details

Connect with an enrollment counselor to further discuss the cost of the program and explore your eligibility for scholarships and discounts.

Scholarships and savings

Are there scholarships available for doctoral degrees.

Your education is an investment in your future that's within reach. There are  more ways to save  than you might think.

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$5,000 quarterly tuition maximum

Maximize your courseload – take 6 or more credits per quarter and pay just $5,000.*

$20K toward your doctorate

Apply for a $20K Capella Progress Reward , a scholarship to help fund your doctoral degree. Eligibility rules and exclusions apply. Connect with us for details.

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10% military discount

If you’re an active-duty military service member, spouse, dependent, or veteran, you may be eligible for discounts on tuition at Capella.  Get details

*Cost of each residency is included in the $5,000 quarterly tuition maximum; books, resource kit, travel, lodging, meals, and other expenses are not included.

Accredited and recognized

Capella is accredited by the higher learning commission..

Accreditation and recognitions provide assurance that we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability. See all our  accreditations  and  recognitions .

How to apply

Phd in business management admission requirements.

Applicants must provide the following information for  admission  to Capella programs and specializations:

  • A master’s degree from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, or from an internationally recognized institution
  •  Your official master’s transcripts, with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale
  • A valid, government-issued form of photo identification

GRE and GMAT are not required for admission.

International Student Requirements

If you completed your most recent academic coursework, degree, or credential at an institution outside the United States, regardless of your citizenship or where you currently live, you are considered an international applicant.

In addition to the above admission requirements, you will need to submit these materials:

  • Minimum score on acceptable test for proof of English proficiency
  • Transcript evaluation

Learn more about  international student admissions .

Faculty and support

What support does capella offer online students.

Our programs are designed to meet the unique needs of doctoral students. We’ve structured the experience in manageable pieces that build on one another to help you earn your doctorate. You’ll have support from faculty, staff, and online resources along the way.

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Doctoral faculty

Work with faculty members who have years of experience and specialize in their areas of expertise throughout each phase of your program, including literature review and implementation planning.

Enrollment counselors

These experts will set you up for success. They’ll help you find the right degree program and answer all your questions about Capella.

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Academic coaches

Through quarterly appointments and as-needed counseling sessions, these specialists introduce you to Capella and help you tailor your program to your personal goals and experiences.

Articles and resources

Expand your perspective on academic and career topics with articles and resources from Capella University.

Classroom instruction

10 qualities to look for in a career mentor

Finding a career mentor can really help as you develop your professional skills and move up the ladder.

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What’s the ROI for a PhD?

Is a PhD worth the investment of time, money, and energy?

Doctoral Journey

What’s it like to be a doctoral student?

What does it take to earn a doctoral degree? Learn more about the experience and explore each step of the journey.

Career exploration

What can you do with a phd in human resource management degree.

Your education can help you reach your goals, professionally and personally. Here are some of the jobs and employment settings to consider with a PhD in Business Management, Human Resource Management.

Related job titles to explore*

  • Adjunct or part-time human resource management faculty
  • Full-time human resource management faculty
  • Dean or associate dean of business program
  • Human resource director
  • Director/vice president, human resources
  • Director/vice president talent acquisition
  • Director/vice president labor relations
  • Director/vice president EEO and/or diversity
  • Director/vice president compensation and benefits
  • Director/vice president human resource development
  • Chief human resource officer (CHRO)
  • Senior human resource manager

Employment settings to explore

  • Land-based or online college or university
  • Community college
  • Consulting firm
  • Corporation
  • Nonprofit organization
  • Manufacturing
  • Health care organization
  • Insurance firm
  • Small business
  • Government—local, state, federal

*These are examples intended to serve as a general guide. Some positions may prefer or even require previous experience, licensure, certifications, and/or other designations along with a degree. Because many factors determine what position an individual may attain, Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific job title, a promotion, salary increase, or other career outcome. We encourage you to research requirements for your job target and career goals.

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Best Online Doctorate in Human Resources

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Staff Writers

Contributing Writer

Learn about our editorial process .

Updated October 23, 2023

TheBestSchools.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Are you ready to discover your college program?

Human Resources Departments are Crucial to the Success of Companies

These departments attract talent and ensure employees receive proper training and are satisfied in their roles. They handle payroll and benefits, mediate issues between employees and management, and ensure organizations comply with regulations and laws. Companies need human resources professionals who are well-versed in the field.

A doctorate in human resource management provides knowledge and skills necessary to secure high-paying positions in the field. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), top executives -- including chief human resources officers -- can earn median salaries exceeding $100,090. Earning a Ph.D. in human resources online is a convenient way for current professionals in the field to hone their skills or transition into academia.

The Best Online Doctorate in Human Resources Programs

We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. TheBestSchools.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.

#1 Best Online Doctorate in Human Resources

Bellevue University

  • Bellevue, NE
  • Online + Campus

The human capital management Ph.D. program at Bellevue University offers a flexible route to a doctorate. With its online format, the private university makes a doctorate more accessible. Doctoral students receive research support throughout the program.

The online HR program requires doctoral coursework. After passing comprehensive examinations, doctoral candidates conduct research for their dissertation. As the terminal degree in human resources, the program leads to career opportunities in academia, research, and industry.

At the accredited institution, doctoral students can use fellowships, scholarships, and other forms of financial aid to pay for their degree. Prospective applicants can contact the program to learn more about research support, financial aid opportunities, and admission requirements.

Bellevue University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 11,008

Online Master's Programs: 24

Online Doctoral Programs: 1

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 27-to-1

Graduate Tuition Rate: $10,530

#2 Best Online Doctorate in Human Resources

Liberty University

  • Lynchburg, VA

The online DBA in human resources program at Liberty University ranks among the best in the field. Degree-seekers benefit from flexible course options through the private institution. Doctoral students engage in advanced research and benefit from support services.

Learners take 60 credits of doctoral classes in the HR program. Doctoral candidates pass comprehensive examinations and conduct research for their dissertation. Graduates with a doctorate in human resources can work in academic, research, and industry positions.

Online doctoral students can pay for their degree with scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of financial aid. Contact the human resources program for more information about doctoral admissions.

Liberty University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 78,511

Online Master's Programs: 67

Online Doctoral Programs: 9

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1

Graduate Tuition Rate: $7,980

Accepts Transfer Credits: Accepted

#3 Best Online Doctorate in Human Resources

National University

  • San Diego, CA

National University offers an online Ph.D. in human resource management for doctoral students. With its flexible format, the private university helps degree-seekers complete a doctorate. Doctoral students work closely with faculty mentors and career advisors.

The 48-credit doctoral program incorporates advanced human resources coursework. After completing coursework, doctoral candidates conduct research for their dissertation or doctoral project. A doctorate in human resources prepares graduates for careers in academia, research, and leadership.

Doctoral students can pay for the program with federal financial aid, fellowships, and scholarships. Contact the human resources program to learn more about the enrollment process and start dates.

National University at a Glance:

Online Master's Programs: 26

Online Doctoral Programs: 15

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 3-to-1

Graduate Tuition Rate: $16,983

#4 Best Online Doctorate in Human Resources

Regent University

  • Virginia Beach, VA

The human resource development Ph.D. program at Regent University delivers a doctorate in an online learning format. The private university offers flexible enrollment options for degree-seekers. Doctoral students meet with career advisors and faculty mentors.

Learners take doctoral classes in the HR program. After meeting coursework requirements, doctoral candidates pass a comprehensive examination and conduct research for an original dissertation or project. As the terminal degree in human resources, a Ph.D. often leads to career opportunities in academia, research, and industry.

The accredited institution meets federal requirements for financial aid support. Prospective applicants can contact the program to learn more about financial aid opportunities and the admission process.

Regent University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 9,507

Online Master's Programs: 37

Online Doctoral Programs: 12

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 29-to-1

Graduate Tuition Rate: $15,552

#5 Best Online Doctorate in Human Resources

University of Arkansas Fort Smith

  • Fort Smith, AR

The doctor of education in human resource and workforce development education program at the University of Arkansas Fort Smith uses an online learning format. At the public institution, degree-seekers take doctoral classes in a flexible format. Doctoral students conduct research and participate in academic conferences.

The doctoral program includes a rigorous curriculum in human resources. After passing comprehensive examinations, doctoral candidates spend 1-2 years researching and writing their dissertation. A doctorate in human resources trains graduates for roles in research, academia, and leadership.

At the accredited institution, doctoral students can qualify for several forms of financial aid. Reach out to the program to learn more about transfer credit policies, research support, and admission requirements.

University of Arkansas Fort Smith at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 3,417

Online Master's Programs: 1

Graduate Tuition Rate: $7,092

Best Online Doctorate

Online Doctorate in Human Resources Programs Ranking Guidelines

We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.

Our Methodology

Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.

Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools  cannot buy better rankings  at TBS.

While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.

  • Affordability
  • Online Enrollment

Data Sources

The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.

The  Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System  (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's  National Center for Education Statistics  (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the  College Navigator .

Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from  AcademicInfluence.com , subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.

Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology

About our ranking factors.

Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.

Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.

We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.

  • Collapse All

Academics - 75%

Affordability - 15%, online enrollment - 10%.

In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.

If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through  contact page .

We thank you for your readership and trust.

Featured Online Doctorate in Human Resources Programs

What else can i expect from an online doctorate in human resources program.

Earning an online Ph.D. in human resources prepares students to fill HR management roles. While coursework varies by program, classes typically cover the laws and regulations that govern employment issues, unions, employee recruitment and retainment, and compensation and benefits. Most programs require students to complete a dissertation, which involves extensive research into a human resources topic or issue.

Curriculum for an Online Doctorate in Human Resources

  • Labor Relations: Students learn about unions, including their history, politics, processes, and relationships with businesses. Learners explore how unions affect the attitudes and behaviors of management and employees. This class prepares students for HR positions within unionized organizations.
  • Attracting and Retaining Talent: One of the most important duties of an HR leader is recruiting top employees and keeping them satisfied. This class discusses how diversity, succession planning, and competition for talent help create an appealing work environment.
  • Laws, Ethics, and Culture: Companies must adhere to laws and regulations to ensure the welfare of employees; HR managers are responsible for understanding these rules. This course examines the regulatory environment in which human resource professionals operate, their role in communications, and how to manage diversity and inclusion within an organization.
  • Organizational Performance and Behavior: This class discusses the principles and practices of improving employee performance. Students learn how to establish organizational performance requirements, create performance improvement proposals, and assess the results of performance improvement interventions.
  • Compensation Management: HR managers must know how to create, implement, and manage a compensation and benefits program. This class reviews the components of compensation systems, bases for pay, and legally required and discretionary employee benefits.

How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Doctorate Degree in Human Resources?

Most full-time students take at least four years to earn a Ph.D. in human resources online. Programs typically require about 60 credits and a dissertation. Along with program requirements, factors such as enrollment status and program structure affect degree completion time. Students with personal or professional responsibilities may complete fewer credits per term, increasing the time necessary to graduate. Schools generally require students to complete their Ph.D. within ten years.

Some programs use a cohort model in which students complete coursework in a prescribed sequence with a small group of peers. Individually paced programs allow students to move through the curriculum at their own speed, providing learners the opportunity to graduate more quickly. Before pursuing a Ph.D. in human resources online, you should determine your ideal learning style. Students who thrive in a community-based environment may benefit more from a cohort structure, whereas those who require scheduling flexibility generally opt for individually paced programs.

Accreditation for Online Doctorate in Human Resources Degrees

Students planning to earn a Ph.D in human resources online should only consider accredited programs. Accreditation ensures schools provide quality educational programs and gives students access to federal financial aid. Accrediting agencies are private entities that hold institutions to academic and professional standards.

The two main types of accreditation in the U.S. are regional and national. Regional accreditation is the most common and the most highly regarded. Many employers require job candidates to hold a degree from a regionally accredited institution, and credits earned from regionally accredited schools transfer easily. Trade, vocational, and online schools often hold national accreditation. Programs may also hold specialized accreditation from a field-specific agency. Some online human resources programs receive accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.

Although the U.S. Department of Education (ED) does not accredit institutions, the department oversees the accreditation system and recognizes accrediting agencies. Federal financial aid is only available to students at institutions with accreditation from an ED-recognized agency . The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) is a nonprofit organization that recognizes accrediting agencies and works to ensure the quality of U.S. education. CHEA member institutions include 3,000 degree-granting colleges and universities. CHEA recognizes 60 institutional and programmatic accrediting organizations and maintains a searchable online database of institutions and programs accredited by recognized agencies.

Employment Outlook for Doctorate in Human Resources Graduates

Doctorate in human resources careers.

After earning a Ph.D. in human resources online, graduates often pursue managerial positions within HR departments or teaching careers at the college level. These high-level roles require leadership, communication, and critical-thinking skills, and HR professionals commonly work more than 40 hours per week.

Business Postsecondary Teacher

Business postsecondary teachers specialize in a certain subject, such as human resources. They teach courses and sometimes conduct research. Business professors at four-year colleges and universities typically need a doctoral degree in their field. Community and technical colleges generally prefer applicants with a doctorate.

Chief Human Resources Officer

These top executives direct human resources departments. They manage the department's operations, create and execute policies, and work closely with other leaders in the organization. Top executives typically hold a bachelor's or master's degree in business administration. Professionals often advance to this role after serving in lower-level management or supervisory positions. Chief executives generally have extensive managerial experience.

Human Resource Managers

Human resource managers direct the administrative functions of human resources departments. They oversee recruitment, interviewing, and hiring processes. They also manage employee relations and ensure regulatory compliance. These managers may hold specific titles, such as labor relations director, payroll manager, or recruiting manager. These professionals need at least a bachelor's degree, but some positions require a master's degree in human resources, labor relations, or business administration.

Training and Development Manager

These managers oversee an organization's training programs, staff, and budgets. They supervise training and development specialists and consult with top executives and financial officers to ensure training priorities align with the company's goals. Training and development managers typically need a bachelor's degree in human resources or a related field, though some positions require a master's degree.

Doctorate in Human Resources Degree Salary

Professionals who earned a Ph.D. in human resources online can earn increased salaries throughout their careers. The median salary for late-career training and development officers is about $20,000 higher than the median salary for entry-level officers. Similarly, human resources managers with more experience tend to earn higher salaries. The table below highlights median salaries for human resources professionals at various career stages.

Paying for Your Online Doctorate in Human Resources

Students earning a doctorate in human resource management have a variety of options for saving money and financing their degree. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for federal grants, work-study programs, and loans. Students can complete the FAFSA for the upcoming academic year beginning October 1. The federal due date for the FAFSA is June 30, but schools often set their own deadlines.

Many schools and outside organizations, such as professional associations, award scholarships based on academic merit and financial need. Some schools, states, and employers also offer tuition assistance reimbursement programs to students who meet certain criteria. If you want to earn an online Ph.D. in human resources, contact your school's admissions office for information about available scholarships.

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Best online human resources doctorate 2022: Top picks

maura-deering

Human resource managers plan, coordinate, and direct staff recruitment and retention processes for organizations, businesses, and agencies. These professionals function as a link between employees and management. Large companies employ HR professionals as labor relations directors, compensation and benefit managers, and training and development specialists.

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 9% increase in employment for human resource managers between 2020 and 2030, which points to a promising future in this profession. HR leaders should be in demand to navigate changing employment laws and cultures, along with complex healthcare and retirement plans.  

To learn about earning an online human resources doctorate, take a look at our program rankings.

Top 5 online schools for doctorates in HR

The best online human resources doctorate degrees.

Our rankings employ expert curation and meticulous editing to provide information on the best program that helps readers make informed decisions. Check out ZDNet's ranking methodology to learn about the criteria used to select and accurately report on the top schools.  

Unless otherwise indicated, data is drawn from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System and College Scorecard .

1. Amridge University

Montgomery, alabama.

About the program: Christian faith-based Ambridge offers a 51-credit Ph.D. in organizational leadership and management 100% online that prepares graduates to hone their research skills and address organizational challenges.

  • Acceptance rate: Not publicly available
  • Graduation rate: 32%
  • Price per credit: $675 full-time; $760 part-time
  • Years to completion: Four with full-time study; part-time study available
  • GRE/GMAT: Not required
  • Minimum GPA: Not required
  • Enrollment periods per year: Three
  • Course delivery method: Synchronous and asynchronous

2. Bellevue University

Bellevue, nebraska.

About the program: BU's 51-credit online Ph.D. in human capital management allows business professionals to progress through four curriculum modules that develop skills in investing in and developing employees.

  • Graduation rate: 46%
  • Price per credit: $780
  • Years to completion: Not specified
  • GRE/GMAT: Not required 
  • Minimum GPA: 3.0
  • Enrollment periods per year: Four
  • Course delivery method: Asynchronous

3. Northcentral University

San diego, california.

About the program: Remote learners enrolled in NCU's 60-credit Ph.D. in human resource management program develop research-based skills and knowledge in improving organizational effectiveness and motivating diverse workforces.

  • Graduation rate: 25%
  • Price per credit:  $945
  • Years to completion: Four
  • Minimum GPA: 3.0 for credit transfer
  • Enrollment periods per year: Rolling

4. Regent University

Virginia beach, virginia.

About the program: Regent, a Christian-centered university, features a 60-credit research-based Ph.D. in organizational leadership — human resource development online program that prepares graduates for roles as professors, researchers, executive leaders, and consultants. 

  • Acceptance rate: 86%
  • Graduation rate: 27%
  • Price per credit:   $995
  • Years to completion: Seven (maximum)
  • Course delivery method: Asynchronous with two in-person residencies

5. Thomas Edison State University

Trenton, new jersey.

About the program: The 48-credit online doctor of business administration program at TESU offers a concentration in human resource management that culminates in a scholar-practitioner field project for publication or conference presentation.

  • Price per credit:  $905
  • Enrollment periods per year: Rolling with four start dates

6. University of Arkansas Fort Smith

Fort smith, arkansas.

About the program: UAFS lists a doctor of education in human resource and workforce development education among its graduate programs. The program requires 96 credits and includes three pillars: career development, organization, and training and development.

  • Graduation rate: 34%
  • Price per credit:  $438
  • GRE/GMAT: Required; 153 verbal, 150 qualitative, 4.0 analytical writing
  • Enrollment periods per year: Two

7. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Champaign, illinois.

About the program: Distance learners can earn their doctor of education in human resource development through Illinois Online. The program requires 64 credits and prepares graduates to plan and direct programs to support their organizations' employees.

  • Acceptance rate: 59%
  • Graduation rate: 86%
  • Price per credit:  $490
  • Years to completion: Six to seven
  • Course delivery method: Synchronous 

What to expect in an online human resources doctorate degree program

Online human resources doctoral students can expect to take both theoretical and practical courses in advanced HR topics, including organizational development, leadership principles, and ethical frameworks. 

Other course content covers quantitative and quantitative research methods in preparation for completing dissertations. The dissertation process includes gaining faculty approval of students' research proposals, conducting research, and presenting and defending their findings. A comprehensive exam may also be part of the dissertation process. 

Doctoral study focuses on concentration specializations, which students select based on their past educational and professional experiences and future career goals. Learners at this level tend to be self-motivated, organized, and passionate about their research topics. They also possess an interest in teaching and improving organizations' HR functions and employee relations. 

Doctorate in human resources courses

Online human resources doctorate curriculums vary in content depending on the focus of the degree, but most programs include coursework in law and ethics, human resource foundations, qualitative research methods, and leadership theory and application. 

The course descriptions below offer a look at the classes students might take as part of their programs as they prepare to conduct research, write their dissertation proposals, and apply the principles learned in their courses to their organizations. 

Employment, legal, and ethical Issues

Learners gain an understanding of the ways in which current employment issues, equal employment opportunity laws, and ethical workplace practices impact businesses and society. They also examine best practices in compliance with business, employment, and labor laws. 

Foundations of human resource and workforce development

This course includes topics covering applications of workplace and organizational learning theories, career development theories and methods, program development, and strategic planning for human resource and workforce development. 

Qualitative methods

Students learn about the tools and concepts of qualitative research, including case study research design, ethnography, grounded theory, and phenomenology. The course also looks at epistemological assumptions, strengths, and weaknesses of qualitative methods.

Seminar in leadership theory

Enrollees explore the science of influence, including leadership styles and their theoretical assumptions and underpinnings, the challenges leaders face, and the ways leaders build key relationships. The course emphasizes leadership approaches, applications, and knowledge. 

Human resources degree levels

The numerous HR degree levels and focus areas may appear overwhelming, but it can help to examine your career goals, available time and money to spend on school, and preference for working in business, education, or other types of organizations. The descriptions of each degree level below may serve to narrow your choices.

Certificate in human resources

  • Length: One year
  • Cost: $1,800-$6,000
  • Post-grad careers: Human resources manager, compensation and benefits specialist, training and development coordinator

Students enroll in graduate human resources certificate programs to advance their careers, move into managerial positions, and earn industry certifications. Undergraduate certificate programs offer foundational courses for entry-level HR roles with potential transfer credits into human resources associate or bachelor's degree programs.

Coursework usually covers organizational management, employee relations, and ethics and legal issues, along with topics in advocacy, engagement, and negotiation. Some programs are self-study, while others may include small group projects and participatory case study analyses.

Associate in human resources

  • Length: Two years 
  • Cost: $1,000-$10,500 per year
  • Post-grad careers: Benefits specialist, payroll specialist, training coordinator

Associate degrees in human resources qualify graduates for entry-level HR jobs and include coursework in employee benefits, hiring and worker retention, training and performance evaluation, and conflict management. Students also learn about creating a positive workplace culture. 

Credits often transfer toward a bachelor's degree in human resources. The curriculum includes general education core courses and may offer internships, field experiences, or capstone projects. Enrollees develop skills in communication and working with diverse employee populations.

Bachelor's in human resources

  • Length: Four years 
  • Cost: $7,000-$28,000 per year  
  • Post-grad careers: Employee relations manager, human resources specialist, recruiting manager

A bachelor's-level human resources degree prepares students for mid-level management positions, recruiters, and training specialists. General education college courses combine with HR topics like conflict resolution, diversity issues, group collaboration, management science, and organizational behavior. Additional coursework may focus on compensation strategies, labor and business laws, and performance metrics.

Bachelor's degree students often complete practicums or internships to receive hands-on training and gain insight into workplace cultures and communication styles. Learners may also participate in group projects. 

Master's in human resources

  • Cost: $7,300-$41,000 per year
  • Post-grad careers: Human resources consultant, human resources executive, talent and development manager

This degree level awards a human resources master's or a master of business of business administration (MBA) in human resources. With programs designed for experienced professionals, students often choose to pursue a master's in human resources or MBA in human resources online .

Human resources master's degrees emphasize leadership in recruitment, training, and employee relations. MBA curriculums often focus on core business topics during the first year, followed by HR coursework. Master's programs typically culminate with a thesis or capstone. 

Doctorate in human resources

  • Length: Four to seven years 
  • Cost: $400-$1,000 per credit
  • Post-grad careers: Director of human resources, employee education consultant, human resources professor

A doctoral program in human resources can lead to a Ph.D., doctor of business administration (DBA), or doctor of education (Ed.D.). Doctorate-level curriculums emphasize teaching, research, and executive leadership, and students spend a large part of their degree programs working on research-based dissertations.

Generally, a Ph.D. focuses on academic teaching and research in higher education, a DBA leans toward business administration, and an Ed.D. centers on educational and organizational leadership and change management.

In conclusion

If you are a working HR professional interested in academia or an executive position at the highest level, a doctorate in human resources could get you where you want to go. Explore our list of top online programs leading to a Ph.D., DBA, or Ed.D. to find the best option.

Business and Management

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?

PhD in Human Resources Online

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.

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!

  • PhD in Human Resources

human resource manager talking to a colleague in an office

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.

human resource managers having a meeting regarding company's employee benefits

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.

human resource manager meeting with company's employees

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 resource managers in a meeting

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.

human resources consultants sharing their ideas during a meeting

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.

team of professional employees meeting in a modern office

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

PhD in Human Resources student studying online

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.

PhD in Human Resources student studying at home

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

PhD in Human Resources Careers and Salary

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.

human resource manager talking to a job applicant

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

human resource manager talking to her colleague

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

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

Human Resource manager receiving a certificate

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

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

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?

human resource manager studying at home

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?

human resource manager studying at a cafe

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 .

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.

Bellevue University campus

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.

Colorado State University campus

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.

Liberty University campus

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.

National University campus

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.

Regent University campus

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.

University of Arkansas campus

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.

University of Illinois Urbana Champaign campus

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.

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

University of Texas at Tyler campus

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.

Walden University campus

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.

Wayland Baptist University campus

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.

Is a PhD in Human Resources Worth It?

human resource manager giving the contract to a new employee to be signed

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!

phd online human resources

Top 10 PhD Programs in Human Resources

Human resources is one of the most critical roles in any company. The people responsible for keeping employees happy, productive, and in the know are sometimes the only thing standing between management and mutiny. In recent years, business schools and other higher education institutions have begun taking human resources seriously as a field of study and education, developing degree programs dedicated to the theory and practice of human resources. For those reaching for the higher rungs of the ladder in human resources, or who are interested in researching, teaching, and consulting in the field, a doctorate in human resources is the way to go.

Finding an Online Human Resources Doctorate

Finding a PhD in human resource management through distance education has become much easier than it ever was before, thanks to universities developing human resources doctorates in all sorts of different forms. Some programs offer a PhD in Human Resources, while others offer an  online Doctor of Business Administration with a Human Resources focus; there are also online Doctor of Education (EdD) programs specializing in human resource training, while online Leadership Doctorate programs may also offer human resources expertise.

Whatever the letters on the diploma, the top PhD programs in Human Resources have the same things in common: a focus on training human resources managers and professionals to offer the best staff support, the highest level of integrity and ethical responsibility, and complete confidence and capability using modern technology. All of these are the essential elements that make for leaders in the human resources field, and that is what a Human Resources doctorate is all about.

Ranking the Top PhD Programs in Human Resources

Online PhD Programs has developed our ranking of the best PhD programs in human resources by combing the higher education landscape for fully online, hybrid, or low-residency human resources programs. With our pool of qualified institutions – all regionally accredited and known for quality – we ranked programs by three criteria:

  • Cost (from IPEDs data)
  • Reputation (from Niche scores)
  • ROI (from College Scorecard)

Any professional working in human resources who wants to go to the highest level can trust the top PhD in Human Resources programs to provide the foundation of expertise and experience to conquer that next mountain in their career.

1. University of Arkansas

Located in Fayetteville, the University of Arkansas is the premier doctoral institution in Arkansas. Since 1871, the U of A specializes in offering high-quality education to its student population. Despite its prestigious status, the University of Arkansas charges tuition on a pay per credit basis for all its online-based programs. This university enjoys good ratings from institutions such as Forbes, Times Higher Education, the Washington Monthly, and U.S News & World Report for its dedication in providing quality academic instruction, commitment to research, and program affordability. Besides offering doctoral programs in human resource management, U of A has over 200 online programs in different disciplines, including one of the top PhD programs in human resources.

Launched in 2001, the University of Arkansas’ online Doctor of Education in Human Resource and Workforce Development Education doctoral program is a 96 credit program delivering instruction asynchronously (with a onetime campus residency). For admission, students need to have at least a GRE score of 153 in verbal skills, 150 in quantitative skills, and a 4.0 rating in writing. Also, potential candidates need to have prior work experience to enroll in this program. With a student to faculty ratio of 18:1, students are assured of strong support. By providing this PhD in human resource management through distance education, students require less than four years to complete the online program. Besides that, students can attend summer classes upon request.

Format: Online Cost: $ $$$$

2. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Operating from the outskirts of Urbana and Champaign, the University of Illinois Champaign is Illinois’ flagship campus that provides a 100% online PhD in human resource management through distance education, a unique selling point for busy professionals. To deliver the curriculum’s coursework, the university combines a synchronous model with asynchronous learning for forum posts. This makes its program unique as it exposes students to principles of teamwork, leadership, system design, and work analysis. By enrolling in this university, candidates access world-class education resources in human resource management and development.

Offered as a 64 credit program, UI’s online PhD in Human Resources program focuses on topics like consultancy, human capital development, e-learning, and program evaluation. Prospective students require to present an up to date CV, three letters of reference, and a GPA score of 3.0 for admission into the program. ts Doctor of Education in Education Policy: Organizational Leadership program is unique in integrating subjects such as sexual orientation, diversity, and race and gender equality. Primarily, this program favors working professionals and allows candidates to complete the entire PhD in human resource management through distance education within 3.5 years.

Format: Online Cost: $$ $$$

3. Colorado State University Online

Established in 1870, the Colorado State University is a land grant learning institution located in Fort Collins. It enjoys popularity for its demanding programs and curricula. CSU is the flagship university in the state’s university system with eight constituent colleges and 55 faculties delivering over 150 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. In 2017, CSU was ranked one of the top 20 institutions for online learning by U.S. News & World Report. Distinctively, it’s the only fully online, regionally accredited, independent public university in the US. Given that, it is a popular option for busy graduates who desire a self-paced doctorate education.

Colorado State University’s online Ph.D. in Education and Human Resource Studies equips students with advanced skills in leadership, communication, and effective teaching techniques. CSU doctoral program has three specializations including Education, Equity and Transformation, Organizational Learning, Performance and Change, and Higher Education Leadership. Via these specializations, postgraduate candidates become competent, effective, and responsible business and community leaders. Pursuing a CSU doctoral program online improves a graduate’s earning potential. Remarkably, CSU relies on the same faculty that delivers its on-campus curriculum to provide its PhD in human resource management through distance education coursework.

4. University of Connecticut

Founded in 1881, the University of Connecticut is a public higher learning institution located in Storrs, CT. UConn is well-known for its excellent and internationally acclaimed academic programs, as well as one of the most respected public universities in New England. Improvements in the quality of its programs have occasioned an influx of student enrollment in recent years. UConn depends on a culture of innovation to accomplish its academic mission. Its commitment to quality education ensures that UConn is a favorite destination for a vast number of international students. Given that, UConn’s human resource management doctoral program combines a distinctive blend of on-campus and online instruction. In this way, UConn maximizes a graduate’s learning experience.

UConn’s Advanced Business Management Certificate in Human Resource Management targets graduates and other professionals looking to advance their skills and knowledge in human resources management. This program has four core subjects with one course being mandatory. Students study for a year to complete this program. UConn’s graduate program targets students who need to balance family, career, and personal commitments. In pursuing this program, candidates gain high-level quantitative skills and practical knowledge leading to enhanced performance. Besides, this program serves as a stepping stone towards a Master’s degree. Successfully completing this course demonstrates a candidate’s skills in advanced human resource management concepts.

5. Bellevue University

Founded in the 1960s, Bellevue University is a non-profit university located in Bellevue, Nebraska. Since its inception, Bellevue University’s mission has been to provide students with quality and affordable education. Interestingly, more than 80% of its campus fraternity comprises of students above 25 years of age. Each year, Bellevue University caters for approximately 10,000 students in its 15 campuses offering over 70-degree programs. Recently, the US News and World Report included Bellevue University in its list of institutions providing top PhD programs in human resources. The Higher National Learning Commission accredits Bellevue University in conjunction with the U.S Department of Education.

Bellevue’s online PhD in Human Capital Management program offers specializations such as Recruitment, Foundations for Professional Success, and Benefits Administration. Coursework for this degree relies on the Professional Human Resource (PHR) body of knowledge. Also, the curriculum focuses on topics such as Equal Opportunity compliance, human capital development, labor relations, compensation, and benefits management. To graduate, candidates must attain 40 credits in business and administration studies and forty electives. Bellevue University’s human resource doctoral program is unique because of its focus on hands-on learning that relates theory to real-world scenarios. Besides, students at Bellevue University benefit from its Kirkpatrick Signature Series program, which engages candidates in active citizenship activities.

6. Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University is a public university founded in 1930 as a division of the College of William and Mary. Today, however, ODU is a full-fledged university located in Norfolk, Virginia. ODU is committed to scientific research in fields such as simulation, modeling, accelerator science, and situational analysis. In particular, ODU stands out from its peers because of its entrepreneurship-oriented doctoral research student population. Also, it has a highly rigorous campus resident community which contributes some $2.6 billion in revenue to Virginia’s economy. ODU’s online program in human resource produces high-level HR management professionals, as graduates leave ODU with an entrepreneurial mindset.

ODU’s PhD in Education: Occupational and Technical Studies – Human Resource Training specialization is available as an online graduate program. This program equips industry and business professionals with practical leadership skills in the assessment, design, and delivery of productive workforces in a globalized economy. ODU doctorate program comprises of core units in occupational and technical studies, research, electives, a dissertation, and human resources training. Graduates taking this program rely on the university’s online portal to access instructional material and other resources. Even though ODU offers this as an online program, students must attend a 2-week Summer Institute at its main campus in Norfolk. With this program, ODU hopes to achieve its goal of providing world-class PhD in human resource management through distance education.

7. Liberty University

Liberty University is a private Christian institution located in Lynchburg, VA. It’s the nation’s second largest private university, with an overall student population of more than 100,000. It’s widely recognized for its student code, The Liberty Way, which emphasizes evangelical Christian values. LU’s mission is to develop morally upright professionals through the inculcation of Christian morals and values. At LU, students engage with a curriculum grounded upon rigorous training and structured learning. Similarly, LU’s online programs incorporate thorough training, minus on-site campus residency. All of LU’s online programs sharpen an HR professional’s grasp of core HR concepts in preparation for leadership roles.

Liberty University’s Doctor of Business Administration: Human Resources targets students who desire to attain leadership positions. Its unique DBA program delivers learning using experiential learning, hands-on case studies, organizational coaching, and secondary research. LU’s DBA students cover its 60 credit curriculum 100% online unless one needs to attend an onsite interview. Most importantly, each of the program’s specializations lets students create a degree track that suits their unique needs. This university’s DBA program conveniently facilitates better interaction between students and lecturers through its WebEx portal. As a result, students build long-lasting relationships with both their peers and faculty members. In this way, LU achieves its mission of delivering top PhD programs in human resources.

8. Capella University

Founded in 1993, Capella University is a young institution designed for the convenience of working adults and other non-traditional students. As a primarily online university, CU’s mission is to provide top class profession-oriented education for students who want to see results. From its homebase in Minneapolis, MN, Capella has earned regional accreditation, and has made a name for itself based on its pioneering competency-based learning strategy, which has been widely incorporated by other online educators. Capella uses asynchronous classes, practical learning, and value-added expertise that students can apply right away to their current professions.

Capella University offers two of the top phd programs in human resources available online. These include Capella’s DBA in Business Management and Ph.D. in Business Management . Its Ph.D. in human resource track equips graduates with relevant skills in teaching, consultancy, and organizational leadership. Also, it features a curriculum based on ethics, leadership, research, and strategic management skills. Then again, its DBA in human resources management expands a candidate’s capabilities in the control of organizational performance. In this track, students focus on acquiring, managing, and retaining a workforce that is global in outlook. Besides, both tracks provide graduates with the opportunity to interact with diverse cultural and demographic factors.

9. University of Texas at Tyler

The University of Texas at Tyler is a young university that became a member of the Texas State University system in the year of its founding, 1979. Its mission is to provide expertise in the management of organizations through the training of individuals a corporate human capital. Its online home resource management program prepares students to solve the pressing issues that business organizations confront in the 21st century. Although its human resource program is a 100% online, it allows students to congregate five times a week. In this way, graduates benefit from interactions with professionals in the same career. As a result, enrolling in its online program allows some level of flexibility that you can’t find elsewhere.

The University of Texas at Tyler’s hybrid PhD in Human Resource Development is a 24-month long program that blends theory and practical application of human resource concepts. Skills obtained in this program distinguish UT’s graduates as highly flexible professionals. For the program, doctoral candidates must complete a training regimen comprising of 60 credits in human resources management, statistics, a dissertation, and a research core. However, for admission, one needs to have a Master’s degree in a relevant area, a 3.0 GPA, and a 500 GMAT score. Additionally, students enrolled at the University of Texas’s online program concentrate on research and organizational project development skills in one of the nation’s top PhD programs in human resources.

10. Northcentral University

Northcentral University was founded in 1996 as one of the first fully online colleges ever. For more than two decades, Northcentral has been building a reputation for diversity, accessibility, and convenience, helping working adults, career-changing professionals, and other nontraditional students earn their degrees. While Northcentral is a for-profit institution, it has also earned regional accreditation and provides fully online programs all the way up to the doctoral level. Northcentral developed one of the first fully online Schools of Business and Technology to earn ACBSP accreditation.

Northcentral’s online PhD in Human Resources Management degree program provides students with a full view of contemporary human capital development, from diversity to technological innovation to labor relations. Students learn the most current human resource management theory and focus on the work of building trusting relationships within a company or organization. All coursework is fully online, and all faculty have terminal degrees in their field, providing full support and mentorship for online students.

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Online Doctorate in Human Resources

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Updated January 26, 2023 · 5 Min Read

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Senior leaders in human resources need exceptional decision-making, organizational, and interpersonal skills. Students who plan to conduct research or teach in this field must develop strong analytical, critical-thinking, and communication skills.

Earning a Ph.D. in human resources can help learners develop either of these skill sets and prepares candidates to fill a variety of professional roles. This guide provides an overview of online doctoral programs in human resources, including information about admissions requirements, curricula, and potential career paths for graduates. The guide also explains the importance of earning a human resource management degree from an accredited program.

Should I Earn an Online Doctorate in Human Resources?

Students pursuing a Ph.D. in human resources online can deepen their knowledge in areas such as the creation of innovative workplaces, the nature of 21st century organizations, or methods for attracting and retaining talent. As the highest degree available, a doctorate demonstrates expertise in the field.

Earning a Ph.D. can help current professionals advance their career. According to the  Bureau of Labor Statistics  (BLS), some leadership roles in human resources require an advanced degree. While master's degree holders may qualify for these positions, a doctorate can give candidates a competitive edge. Earning a doctorate may also allow professionals to negotiate a higher salary in their current position.

Doctoral studies can also help individuals hone their research skills. Especially in programs that require a dissertation, students take extensive coursework in quantitative research techniques, applied research methods, and program evaluation. Students may work closely with a faculty adviser to shape and strengthen their research.

Many Ph.D. candidates aspire to train the next generation of human resources leaders and researchers. Most colleges and universities require teaching candidates to hold doctoral degrees.

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

An online doctorate in human resources can lead to a variety of careers. Many students earn a doctorate to qualify for leadership roles in the private sector, such as director of human resources at a large company. Some learners specialize in an area of personnel management, such as talent development or recruitment. Ph.D. holders may also apply their human resources expertise to broad leadership positions, such as chief operating officer.

Graduates may also pursue government positions. Public agencies need qualified human resources professionals to help them attract and retain talented public servants. According to the BLS, about 10% of all human resources managers work for local, state, or federal governments.A doctorate also qualifies candidates for teaching and research roles in academia. Roughly

104,000 postsecondary business teachers work at colleges and universities across the country, instructing students on subjects such as human resources theories and strategic management practices. Additionally, some graduates of online Ph.D. programs serve as consultants, who may work independently or for a consulting firm.

Career Profiles

  • Collapse All

Human Resources Managers

Human resources managers plan and direct an organization's administrative functions. They may hire and onboard new staff, create professional development programs, or mediate employee disputes. Managers at larger organizations often supervise a team of specialists.

  • Median Annual Salary: $110,120

Compensation and Benefits Managers

Compensation and benefits managers oversee an organization's pay structure, work with outside vendors and service providers, and ensure that salaries and benefits comply with government regulations. These professionals may specialize in areas such as initial salary negotiation.

  • Median Annual Salary: $119,120

Training and Development Managers

Training and development managers help an organization's employees enhance their skills and knowledge. They assess professional development needs, design appropriate training programs, and conduct employee evaluations.

  • Median Annual Salary: $108,250

Chief Operating Officers

Chief operating officers manage the administrative functions within an organization. They often oversee multiple departments and must possess a deep understanding of the principles of effective personnel and organizational management.

  • Median Annual Salary: $183,270

Postsecondary Teachers, Business

Postsecondary teachers at colleges and universities instruct students and conduct research. They may advise doctoral students working on their dissertations and perform various administrative duties, such as screening candidates for open faculty positions.

  • Median Annual Salary: $80,300

Featured Online PhD HR Programs

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Human Resources Ph.D. Program Overview

Requirements for an online Ph.D. in human resources vary by program. For example, more practice-oriented programs may require a capstone project in lieu of a dissertation. Some programs require applicants to submit scores from an entrance exam, such as the Graduate Management Admission Test, and some programs feature concentrations or particular courses not available at other institutions. Learners should choose a program that fits their interests and needs.

Types of Doctorate Degrees in Human Resources

Learners can pursue many types of doctoral degrees in human resources. For example, students aspiring to careers in academia often pursue a Ph.D. in human resources. Ph.D. students complete rigorous coursework and write a dissertation to prepare for roles in higher education, such as research associate or assistant professor.

Students can also pursue a practice-oriented degree, such as a doctorate of education in human resources and workforce development.  Rather than requiring a dissertation, these programs provide opportunities for students to develop skills and apply knowledge in practical contexts. Professionals with an Ed.D. in human resources and workforce development often secure leader positions in the public and private sectors, such as director of personnel management.

Learners earning a doctorate in business may specialize in human resources.  In addition to classes in career planning and performance improvement, students in these programs complete general business coursework in areas such as finance, economics, and organizational development. Graduates often pursue top executive roles, such as chief operating officer or chief human resources officer.

Full-time students generally complete practice-oriented programs in about three years, including a capstone project.  Learners pursuing a Ph.D. or another research-focused doctorate often need up to seven years to complete program requirements, including a dissertation.

Application Requirements and Admission Criteria

Applicants to doctorate in human resource management programs must typically hold an advanced degree in a related field. Some programs, however, allow students to earn their master's as they work toward a Ph.D.

Most programs require applicants to meet certain academic standards, such as a minimum 3.0 master's GPA. Other schools require applicants to submit results from an entrance exam, like the GRE or GMAT.

Doctoral applicants must typically submit a professional resume, a brief essay outlining their qualifications and professional goals, and up to three letters of recommendation. Applicants may also participate in an interview with admission officers or faculty members. These interviews help schools make admissions decisions and pair each admitted student with an appropriate faculty adviser.

Doctoral programs in human resources typically begin with advanced coursework in areas such as organizational development, global economics, and strategic management. Students can take elective classes in topics such as human resources analytics and employment law.

In addition to developing content knowledge, students complete a series of courses to prepare for their dissertation. These courses cover topics such as designing a research question, applying quantitative and qualitative research methods, and writing academically.

After completing required coursework, students must pass a comprehensive doctoral examination. After passing this exam, students can formally begin work on their dissertation. At many schools, students who fail the comprehensive examination twice can no longer seek a Ph.D.

Doctoral students work closely with faculty advisers to choose a research topic, collect data, and write their dissertation. To graduate, students must successfully defend their completed dissertation's methods and conclusions before a faculty committee. The dissertation process typically takes 1-3 years.

Students in practice-oriented doctoral programs complete a capstone project rather than a dissertation. Generally, these programs do not require a comprehensive examination.

Program Outcomes

Students in these programs develop a variety of skills and competencies. They learn how to assess employees' professional development needs through interviews and surveys and prepare to design appropriate training programs.

Students also learn how to resolve disputes among employees and those between an employee and management. Learners gain an understanding of relevant laws and regulations and the ability to manage difficult conversations.

Doctoral students also develop a strategic mindset, which provides context for their work of hiring and training employees and helps them counsel organizational leaders on staffing-related matters.

Students pursuing a Ph.D. in human resources online receive in-depth training in collecting and analyzing data. These research skills can improve their effectiveness in professional settings and can qualify them for roles in academia.

Accreditation for Online Human Resources Doctorate Programs

Learners should choose an accredited online doctoral program in human resources. The accreditation process ensures that schools meet set academic standards and adequately prepare students for careers. Prospective employers may not recognize a degree from an unaccredited school.

Three kinds of accreditation exist: regional, national, and programmatic. Most nonprofit and public universities hold regional accreditation. For-profit and vocational institutions often hold national accreditation. Programmatic accreditation agencies evaluate programs within a particular discipline. For example, online Ph.D. in human resources programs often receive programmatic accreditation from the  Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs  (ACBSP).

To confirm a program holds regional, national, or ACBSP accreditation, check the  online directory  from the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.

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Top 20 PhD Human Resources Management Programs Online 2024

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In this article, we profile the top 20 online PhD in HR management degree programs.

The United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that employment for human resources managers will grow nine percent over the next several years. This is a slight increase over the average of all other occupations (7 percent). As new companies form and businesses and organizations expand, the need for human resources managers will increase. To accommodate demand to fill these roles, colleges and universities now offer PhD in HR management programs online via distance education technology.

Featured Programs

Top 20 online phd in human resource management degree programs methodology.

We conducted a program evaluation of approximately 55 colleges and universities listed by the National Center for Educational Statistics (NCES) College Navigator. These were schools that offered at least one PhD in HR management online or degree programs in a closely related discipline such as organizational leadership or HR development. We narrowed our original pool of human resources programs by applying the following criteria: regional or national accreditation, online or hybrid degree completion pathways, and school rankings with a major publication like U.S. News and World Report. We then listed the PhD programs and schools according to raw affordability.

Below is our list of the top 20 PhD in human resources programs in management online.

#20 – The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

Online phd in organizational leadership, chicago, illinois.

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology - logo

Though not an online PhD program in HR management, Chicago School of Professional Psychology offers a PhD in organizational management with human resources applicable concentrations via distance education. Focus areas for the prospective graduate student include human diversity and ethics, interpersonal dynamics, organizational interventions, strategic change management, and team-building. The doctorate in human resources online is fully online and takes three years to complete. Admission requirements include three or more years of work experience and a 500-750-word essay. Other requirements include a statement of research and official transcripts. U.S. News recognizes the institution among top ranked schools and PhD programs. This coupled with affordable tuition earns the Chicago School of Professional Psychology a spot on our list. Moreover, federal grants and loans may be available to eligible students.

Online PhD Programs in Psychology

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $22,554

#19 – University of Illinois

Online edd in hr development, champaign, illinois.

University of Illinois - logo

A public university founded in 1867, the University of Illinois offers an EdD program similar to PhD in HR management online programs. Successful completion of the online education degree earns an EdD in Diversity and Equity in Education with an emphasis in HR development. The program may be completed fully online and requires 64 credit hours. Courses for the online doctorate in human resources include diversity in the workplace, educational statistics and research methods, ethnographic methods in education, historical and social barriers, learning technologies, and organizational and workforce development education. A thesis and dissertation must also be completed for HR development programs. U.S. News ranks University of Illinois #46 in best national universities. Also, the online graduate education programs rank #16 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

Grad Tuition/Online Cost : $14,635

#18 – Northcentral University

Online phd in hrm, san diego, california.

Northcentral University -logo

One of the top online human resource PhD programs for working professionals can be completed 100% online. Northcentral University’s online doctorate degree explores human resources leadership, workforce development education, and interrelationships within an organization. A total of 20 courses that span 45 months make earning a doctoral degree via online education convenient and rigorous. The accelerated pace is ideal for working students, and classes are taught by distinguished faculty members. Online coursework offers complete flexibility and encourage critical thinking. Students enrolled in the program benefit from no scheduled times, no group assignments, and weekly course start dates. U.S. News recognizes Northcentral University among the top unranked national universities. Also, several online graduate programs have earned top 200 and top 300 rankings out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $16,881

#17 – Sullivan University

Online doctoral degree in management – human resources leadership, louisville, kentucky.

Sullivan University - logo

Sullivan University offers an affordable online doctorate degree in HR management. Admission to the PhD program requires no GRE or GMAT testing. The school is considered a teaching university, though research is required for online programs. Curriculum is broken into different cores, including the management core, research core, and concentration area. A total of 16 hours is required for primary concentration, which includes HR leadership. Near the end of the human resources online program, a comprehensive exam is offered, and credits awarded on a pass-fail basis. A minimum of twelve credits are awarded for dissertation research conducted by prospective training and development managers. U.S. News ranks Sullivan University among the pool of top regional universities in the South.

Grad Tuition/Online Cost : $15,840

#16 – California Baptist University

Riverside, california.

California Baptist University - logo

Though not an online doctorate in management for human resources, California Baptist University offers an online DBA with courses applicable to the HRM field. The 50-unit program offers an eight-week online course format and follows a cohort model. This model allows students to progress together through coursework and the dissertation process. Courses run eight weeks in length, and residency participation may be required. Some of the courses that appeal to individuals interested in human resources online include ethics in organization and management, succession planning, foundations of organization and management, and topics in human capital and management. U.S. News ranks CBU #32 in best regional universities in the West and #20 in best value schools. Also, the online graduate business programs rank #86 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $13,590

#15 – Regent University

Virginia beach, virginia.

Regent University - logo

Regent University is one of the few colleges or universities to offer online Ph.D. in human resources programs for working professionals. The PhD in organizational leadership offers an emphasis in human resource development designed to prepare students to join the leadership ranks in human resources. This ACBSP-accredited PhD consists of 60 credits, two four-day residencies, and can be completed entirely online. Online human resource classes encourage critical thinking skills and include advanced analysis, autonomous learning and human resource development, design of adult learning communities, organizational learning, and ethical human resource development. Applicants to human resource development programs must hold a master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution. U.S. News ranks Regent #201 in best national universities.

Grad Tuition/Online Cost : $15,590

#14 – Johnson & Wales University

Online dba in org. development, providence, rhode island.

Johnson & Wales University -logo

Johnson & Wales University offers a DBA that is ideal for those seeking online human resources PhD programs. The online DBA offers a concentration in organizational development focusing on advancing employee and organizational performance. Flexible online classes run eight weeks in length and are taught by business professors. Students focus on one course at a time and are able to finish the program in three years. To graduate, human resources online students must complete all coursework, achieve a minimum GPA of 3.0, and complete dissertation requirements. U.S. News ranks Johnson & Wales #74 in best regional universities in the North.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $14,706

#13 – Atlantic International University

Online phd hrm, honolulu, hawaii.

Atlantic International University - logo

Atlantic International University’s online PhD HR management boasts flexibility and affordability. This fully online PhD program helps students consult, lead, and teach in the field of human resources within a global business environment. Courses include adult learning and motivation, cross-cultural management, diversity in the workplace, strategic management, leadership and communication, managing and organizing people, and theories of leadership. At the culmination of online learning, each PhD candidate completes, or is encouraged to complete, a doctoral dissertation. AIU is accredited by the Accrediting Service for International Schools, Colleges, and Universities (ASIC). AIU offers one of the most affordable web-based programs on our list, and federal financial aid may be available.

Grad Tuition/Online Cost : $13,000

#12 – Wayland Baptist University

Online doctor of management (dmgt), plainview, texas.

Wayland Baptist University -logo

One of the best online doctorate in HRM programs on our list is the online doctor of management program (DMGT) at Wayland Baptist University, a non profit university located in Plainview, Texas.. This totally online degree consists of 60 semester hours of coursework in areas of management theory, organizational behavior, and HR practices and management. The program uses a cohort model where students take courses as they are offered. Courses are available in an online format and often run in 11-week terms. Students engage in coursework for this doctorate in human resources that includes group and team processes, human resource development, HR strategy, strategic management, and theories of employee and labor relations. Admission to the program requires that prospective graduate students submit official GMAT or GRE scores and three professional or academic recommendations. U.S. News ranks Wayland Baptist #96-#127 in best regional universities in the West.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $13,896

#11 – Colorado State University

Online doctorate in human resources studies, fort collins, colorado.

Colorado State University - logo

Colorado State University’s online human resources PhD program pushes students to become leaders and researchers in the field through coursework and professional experience. The program takes 3.75 years to complete with most classes offered online and is considered one of the best online doctorate options in the field. Students take two courses per semester, and each course meets eight Saturdays per semester at the Denver Learning Center. Some of the required courses include evaluation and assessment in organizational learning, performance, and change (OLPC); foundations of educational research; scenario planning in organizations; systems leadership; and human capital development. Admission requires GRE or GMAT scores and ten to twelve years of advanced experience in a related discipline. In terms of quality education, U.S. News ranks Colorado State University #140 in best national universities and #141 in best value schools.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $10,834

#10 – Old Dominion University

Online edd in occupational and technical studies – human resources, norfolk, virginia.

Old Dominion University -logo

Old Dominion University’s online PhD in HR management is a sixty-hour EdD program. This fully online program focuses on occupational / technical studies and human resources training. Students complete core courses, advanced topics electives, human resources concentration classes, and research projects. Two 2-week summer intensives are required at the main campus in Norfolk, Virginia. Courses include foundations of distance education, foundations of adult education and training, readings in occupational and technical studies, and trends and issues in training – modeling and simulation. U.S. News ranks Old Dominion University as a top national university and public institution offering a quality education in the field. Also, several online graduate programs have received top 50 and top 75 rankings out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

Graduate Tuition/Online Cost : $10,207

#9 – Removed By Editor

#8 – bellevue university, online ph.d. in human capital management, bellevue, nebraska.

Bellevue University - logo

Bellevue University offers an accredited type of online doctorate in human resources degree for HR professionals. The Ph.D. in human capital management online degree equips graduates to be effective leaders in designing human capital development programs. Courses are delivered online and include advance analysis and presentation methods, economics of human derived capital valuation issues, human capital productivity, and research in organizations. An 18-credit dissertation in human resources is also required for the human capital doctorate from Bellevue University. Admission requirements for business schools like this one include a master’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university with a 3.0 GPA or better, five years of professional experience, and statement of interest. There is no GRE or GMAT requirement for this Ph.D. in human capital management. U.S. News ranks Bellevue University among the top regional universities in the Midwest.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $10,980

#7 – Bowling Green State University

Online phd in technology management, bowling green, ohio.

Bowling Green State University -logo

Another alternative to the online doctorate in human resource management is the technology management degree at Bowling Green State University. Students begin by choosing one of five specializations for HR professionals, including human resources development and training. Eighteen hours of specialization courses in HRD & T are required. These courses are offered fully online and include career development theories and techniques in human resource development (HRD), evaluation of HR development programs, performance management and evaluation of learner performance improvement, legal and ethical dimensions in HRD practitioners, and management and coordination of training and development. To apply, the school requires a master’s degree in a relevant field with a strong GPA of at least 3.5. GRE or GMAT scores are also required. Federal financial aid is available to qualified applicants to business schools like this one. U.S. News ranks Bowling Green #215 in best national universities and #121 in top public schools.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $8,017

#6 – Liberty University

Online dba in human resources, lynchburg, virginia.

Liberty University - logo

Liberty University’s PhD in HRM online degree program requires 60 credits and takes three years to complete. The online Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in HR is a 100% online business education program designed to prepare individuals for high leadership roles in HR and business management. Classes are delivered online and include 48 hours of core courses and 12 hours of human resources cognate courses. Transfer credits may be accepted. Some of the courses for the doctorate in human resources include compensation management, contemporary issues in HR management, human capital development, strategic thinking and decision-making, labor relations, and workforce planning and employment. Admission requirements for prospective students include a regionally or nationally accredited master’s degree with a 3.0 or higher GPA. Once admitted, students may qualify for financial aid from the federal government. U.S. News ranks Liberty University #230-#301 in best national universities. The school holds regional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $7,847

#5 – University of Arkansas

Online edd in human resource studies and workplace development education, fayetteville, arkansas.

University of Arkansas - logo

One alternative to the doctorate in human resources management online degree, like the one University of Arkansas offers, is the online EdD in human resources. This fully online program prepares doctoral students in fields like organizational psychology, organizational behavior, consulting, and the human resources field. Prospective students must take the GRE exam to be considered for admission to online PhD programs like this one. Also, admission requires a complete application, autobiographical sketch, and resumé. Human resource professionals have up to seven years to complete the online doctoral program. To graduate, individuals must also successfully demonstrate skills developed through a candidacy exam and dissertation based on qualitative research skills. In terms of quality education, U.S. News & World Report ranks University of Arkansas #152 in best national universities and #78 in top public schools.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $7,875

#4 – University of Southern Mississippi

Online ph.d. human capital development, hattiesburg, mississippi.

University of Southern Mississippi -logo

The University of Southern Mississippi offers a type of online doctorate in human resource management degree known as the Ph.D. in human capital development. Through research and practice, the program prepares students to position themselves as leaders in human capital and organizational strategy and be successful in assessing human capital effectiveness and human capital valuation issues. Classes are delivered mostly online through web-based instruction. Minimal face-to-face meetings or courses may also be required for online students. The human resource leadership coursework you can expect to complete in online PhD programs like this one include advanced workforce analysis, organizational performance, foundations of human capital development, research in human capital development, survey design and administration, strategic human capital management, and workforce development models. U.S. News ranks the school #230-#301 in best national universities. The university holds its regional accreditation from the SACSCOC.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $9,094

#3 – Indiana State University

Terre haute, indiana.

Indiana State University - logo

Indiana State University is one of our top affordable picks for an online doctorate in human resources, PhD, or related doctoral programs. The PhD in technology management is a 66-credit hour program that offers the option of earning a specialization in a particular area of interest. If HRM is an area you want to pursue, the degree may be personalized to include courses in human resource management or development. Courses are delivered online and include 12 credits in general technology, a minimum of 27 credits in research and dissertation, and a minimum of 18 credits in a technical specialization like HR development, human capital management, or organizational dynamics. Students also take at least nine credits of electives, and a comprehensive examination may be required. U.S. News ranks Indiana State #230-#301 in best national universities.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $7,776

#2 – The University of Texas

Online phd in hrd, tyler, texas.

The University of Texas - logo

The University of Texas offers an accredited online PhD human resource management degree intended primarily as one of the few executive-based doctoral programs. While the program is not fully online, an executive format is used whereby students only meet five times each semester. The curriculum covers topics in human capital management and business administration. Most classes will be delivered online. To apply to the program, certain requirements must be met. Admission requires unofficial transcripts from all universities from which you earned a degree, three letters of recommendation, a master’s degree in human resource development or closely related field, and satisfactory GMAT scores. Federal financial aid is available to qualified applicants. U.S. News ranks UT-Tyler #81 in best regional universities in the West and #27 in top public schools.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $6,264

#1 – California Miramar University

California Miramar University - logo

A Doctor of Business Administration or DBA, like the one offered at California Miramar University, may provide an alternative route for individuals seeking online PhD HR management programs. The online DBA program offers an affordable education as well as various business management specializations that incorporate topics in human resources and organizational development. For example, the international business administration specialization offers courses in leadership theory and international HR management. This program is ideal for those interested in both business and HRM as well as human capital management. The program requires the completion of 66 graduate semester credits beyond the master’s degree. Also, degree candidates must conduct research and pass a comprehensive exam prior to approval of the dissertation proposal. California Miramar is the #1 most affordable school to offer an online doctoral program in HR.

Graduate Tuition/Fees : $7,020

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can i do with an online phd in hr management.

Human resource management professionals work in a variety of business administration settings and HR departments to ensure the organization and workplace is safe and respectful. In the human resources field, HR managers use their advanced skills to implement policies that provide support, recruit new job candidates, and fill vacant positions. With a Ph.D. in human resource management online, leadership roles in HR are available.

Duties of human resources managers vary based on organizational mission, but most oversee the recruiting process, manage human resources personnel, and conduct interviews when hiring new staff. Human resource managers often work closely with top organization executives to coordinate the work of a team of specialists. They serve as consultants to department heads and other organization managers and advise them on issues specific to human resources. Issues involving sexual harassment and equal employment opportunity are typically handled by the human resource manager.

Other function of human resources management focuses on structuring competitive compensation packages. To remain competitive as an organization and attract qualified candidates, an equally attractive compensation package must be offered. HR managers who complete a doctoral program make recommendations on potential policy changes, benefits modifications, and pay scale structures.

With an online PhD in HR management and human resource training, teaching is also an option. Colleges and universities hire qualified instructors and professors to teach students within the human resources program. Some candidates may qualify for the position of labor relations director, benefits managers, or training and development specialists.

What is the career outlook for individuals with an online doctorate degree in HR management?

The United States Department of Labor – Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports employment of managers in HR is projected to grow nine percent through the year 2026. This is a slightly faster growth rate than the average for all other occupations.

Employment growth depends largely on the expansion of companies and organizations over the next several years. As new companies form and businesses expand their services and operations, more human resource services will be needed to oversee hiring and recruitment, as well as day-to-day administrative HR duties.

Also, human resource managers will be in demand as policy changes occur within organizations. Complex employment laws, equal employment opportunities, and changes to retirement plans and healthcare will impact the need for qualified specialists. Candidates with adequate training and education, such as an online PhD in human resources management, will be sought after to fill leadership roles.

Candidates with a master’s degree or PhD should have the best job prospects, as education is highly valued in this field. Although job opportunities are expected, they will vary among industry. Healthcare, education, and tech companies should present the highest demand for HR personnel. Top level HR positions will face the strongest competition. Qualified candidates will be vying for few available positions, thus adequate education and experience are a must. Career services are available to human resource professionals through the National Human Resources Association (NHRA) as well as other professional associations.

What will I earn with a PhD in human resources online management degree?

The median annual wage for managers in the field, according to the BLS, was $126,230 in 2021. Today, the earnings for an individual with a Ph.D. in human resource management may be slightly higher.

PayScale, a global compensation research organization dedicated to gathering data and calculating average salaries, reports the average salary of an individual with a PhD or doctorate in human resources management earns $81,000 per year. The maximum salary reported for an individual with a doctorate in HRM is $117,000.

Education and years of experience impact compensation. The more educated and the more experience an individual has, the higher the earning potential. PayScale reports an experienced HR manager with employees and ten to twenty years of experience earns an average total compensation of $74,990.

Location also impacts earnings. Managers in large cities and urban locations generally earn more than their peers working in small and rural towns. The difference in pay may be offset by cost of living expenses. For example, San Francisco offers one of the highest earning potentials for HR managers but also has one of the highest cost of living indexes in the country.

How long does it take to earn a PhD in human resource management online?

Plan on taking time to earn the proper education needed to land a top-level HR management job. Candidates need a bachelor’s, master’s, and in some cases a PhD to secure management roles. Due to competition for the highest leadership positions in HR management, a PhD will add value to your resumé.

Earning a doctorate in human resources management online takes time. There are no shortcuts to earning a PhD, but online programs generally offer a work-at-your-own pace environment. Many of the PhD in HR management programs on our list take two to four years to complete on average.

Completion time varies with enrollment. If you plan to enroll in a full-time program, you may shave months off your completion time. A full load of classes means you will not take as long to complete your degree as a person taking few classes each year in a part-time program. However, there are benefits to enrolling part-time. Less class time, more freedom to balance outside obligations, and more time to focus on research adds value to a part-time program. This is something you must consider before enrolling in a PhD in HR management program online.

What are the admission requirements for a PhD in HR management online?

As with all PhD and doctoral programs, qualified individuals with academic promise are considered for admission. Programs vary in terms of requirements for admission, but for doctoral degrees in human resources management online, similar criteria apply.

The majority of programs look for the basics. Does the applicant have the required education for admission? Programs may ask for an earned bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university, while others ask for a master’s degree. Not all programs require an undergraduate or graduate degree in human resources. Programs select candidates from all academic backgrounds. This means an applicant for a PhD in human resource management online program may hold an undergraduate degree in business or related field, not just a degree in human resources.

GRE or GMAT test scores are often required by top ranked programs and highly ranked institutions. If a program asks for GRE scores or other graduate examination scores, an average may be required. Most programs publish the average GRE or GMAT scores of accepted applicants, though not always. Also, some programs may offer a range or give no indication of qualifying test scores. Most programs do review the application as a whole.

Additional requirements vary among programs. Letters of recommendation from individuals at a professional organization who can attest to your academic and research potential, a statement of purpose, writing sample, and official transcripts are among the most common application requirements.

  • Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook Handbook
  • National Center for Education Statistics: College Navigator
  • US News & World Report: Best Colleges

Related Resources

  • Online Graduate Degrees
  • Cheapest Online Colleges
  • Highest Paying PhD
  • Doctorate Organizational Leadership Online
  • Cheapest Online PhD in Finance
  • Online PhD Programs in Management Information Systems

This concludes our list of the top 20 PhD in human resource management programs online.

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Doctor of Philosophy

Ph.D. Human Capital Management

Deepen your authority as a leader who invests strategically in people.

phd online human resources

No GMAT or GRE Required

Learn 100% Online

Build a stronger workforce and stronger culture with human capital management.

Investing in your team—particularly in complex organizations—requires more than a robust HR department. It requires an ability to see employees as assets that need both investment and development.

You’ll find that what you learn at Bellevue University will have immediate applicability to the workplace. In this Ph.D. in Human Capital Management program, you’ll move through four curriculum modules—each designed to build upon the last — and develop relevant career skills that you can put into practice, now.

Advance your HR knowledge and skills with a Ph.D. in human capital management.

By earning your executive-level Ph.D. in Human Capital Management, you’ll gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills to influence culture and leadership to better serve business goals. With a Ph.D. in the human resources field, you’ll practice the quantitative and qualitative research skills you need to influence key stakeholders and defend your findings as a thought leader in human capital management.

Network and collaborate with experienced HR and business leaders.

Everyone in this program enters with at least 5 years of professional experience and a master’s degree. That means you won’t just get feedback from expert faculty. You’ll also collaborate with expert peers from across the country who can broaden your perspective on strategic leadership.

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Build executive-level skills in a Ph.D. program that fits your life.

What You’ll Learn

  • Demonstrate knowledge of current and emerging human capital related-theories, constructs, public policy and issues.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of current and emerging quantitative and qualitative research methods.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and practical application of univariate and multivariate statistics.
  • Design and conduct assessments and measurements regarding individual differences.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of social theories, team processes and outcomes, organizational climate, and multi-level issues.
  • Demonstrate fluency with theories related to self-regulation, values, rewards, attitudes, motivation and power.
  • Demonstrate writing, communication, presentation and publication proficiency.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of leadership theories, issues related to the management of employees and the science of influence.
  • Demonstrate fluency with problem solving, strategy and creativity literature.
  • Create, test and apply financial and accounting models and associated metrics to evaluate the efficacy of human capital.

Career-focused deliverables that have practical application and build to your dissertation.

The dissertation is essential to any Ph.D. program—heightening your skills in research, communication and presentation so you can advance as a thought leader in your field. But, at Bellevue University, we also want you to walk away ready to apply these skills immediately in the workplace. These projects do just that.

Example 1: Business Plan Proposal

During your Human Capital Development and Productivity course (PCAP 720), you’ll deliver a business plan that outlines human capital initiatives to implement to serve business problems.

Example 2: Strategy to Improve Value Congruence, Productivity, and Retention

Your seminar in Technology, Social Learning and Innovation (course PCAP 760) offers a deep dive into how latent human capital variables can be enhanced to improve learning and drive creativity and innovation.

Example 3: Written Report Summarizing Your Studies

The Advanced Analysis and Presentation Methods course (PCAP 850) develops your research and analysis skills as you deliver an executive-caliber report. This will receive both peer and instructor feedback to hone your communication skills for professional publication.

Dissertation: Applied Research Project for an Organization of Choice

Use your Ph.D. dissertation to address a real-world business problem for your organization. You’ll work with a dissertation chair and committee to develop a research topic and plan.

Ph.D. Human Capital Management Courses

Current students please login to BRUIN and select “ Academic Progress ” for your curriculum requirements.

PhD Requirements (51 Credit Hours)

(Click a course name below to view course details)

Residency 1

This course serves as an introduction to the PhD program. Students will receive an overview of the program, as well as an introduction to faculty and staff. Tutorials are provided for software that is used in the program. Students will be introduced to coursework for PCAP 712 and PCAP 720. Pre-Req: Acceptance into PHD program

Learning Module 1

This course focuses on strategically aligning the management of human-derived capital with organizational objectives. The course will introduce a broad spectrum of topics concerning, human, intellectual, structural, social, and psychological capital. Emphasis will be given to the role and management of organizational knowledge and how such knowledge works in service to the organizational mission.

This course focuses on human capital productivity, Internal and external factors that Impact productivity, data gathering that Informs human capital management. Students will learn to align learning programs and other human capital initiatives with associated business problems, therefore creating an actionable business plan for learning. The Culminating Project for Module 1 is Completion of a written Business Plan for Learning. Pre-req: Acceptance into PHD or Module 1 Certificate

Learning Module 2

This course focuses on the economic principles that are the foundation of human capital management and theory. Differing methods of determining value will be introduced. Emphasis will be placed on financial and accounting practices and their applicability in human capital investment decisions.

This course focuses on the science of influence. Students will become knowledgeable on common styles of leadership and their theoretical underpinnings and assumptions. Topics include what leadership is, the challenge leaders face, the effect leadership has, and how leaders build key relationships. Emphasis is placed on leadership knowledge, approach, and application.

This course covers topics in human learning theory, organizational learning theory, decision making, problem solving, and critical thinking. Organizational learning topics include knowledge creation and transfer, learning effectiveness, socio-psychology learning, cultural-learning, and leadership influences. In addition, the course examines the use of critical thinking methods, qualitative and quantitative decision-making, and problem solving methods. Lastly, the course emphasizes skill development in the areas of independent reasoning and impartial judgment.

This course examines how people and technology can be used to increase organizational value by increasing the various forms of capital (human, social, intellectual, structural, and psychological). Emphasis is placed on organizational strategies, particularly human resources strategies that spur innovation and sustain competitive advantage. Pre-req: PCAP 712, 720, 732, 742

This course will guide the student through the development of a research proposal that incorporates theoretical, empirical and practitioner research in the area of human capital management. Students will work directly with peers and scholarly mentor in order to understand a broad spectrum of research approaches. The skills that you will develop in this course are essential for your doctoral completion. Without these skills, neither will you be able to integrate and link your advanced knowledge into organizational practices and culture, nor will you be able to contribute to the academic and professional literature. Pre-req: PCAP 712, 720, 732, 742, 752, 760

Residency 2

This course provides a thorough introduction to coursework in PCAP 810 as well as summaries of other remaining courses in the program. In additions, students will receive individual program progress reviews. Students also will learn about the comprehensive exam and dissertation phases of the program. Advice is provided to enhance progress for the remainder of the program. Pre-Req: PCAP 712, 720, 732, 742, 752, 760, and 772

Learning Module 3

This course focuses on the research process in human capital management. Skills developed include reading and synthesizing existing research, conducting literature reviews, formulating research question, propositions, and hypotheses, assessing appropriate research methods in an organizational setting, collecting primary and secondary data from multiple sources, and using software to analyze data. Quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methodologies will be discussed. Pre-req: PCAP 712, 720, 732, 742, 752, 760, 772

This course concentrates on leadership and its effect on making human capital management decisions. Topics such as leader styles, ethics, leader emergence, psychopathy in leaders, incentives/motivation/influence, and value creation through leadership will be discussed. Participants will learn about their own leadership style, how to mentor direct reports, communicate across functional areas of the organization, and how to network effectively to achieve organizational change. Pre-req: PCAP 712, 720, 732, 742, 752, 760, 772, 810

This course introduces students to the basic tools and concepts of qualitative research. With this epistemological grounding, the seminar will then explore the core issues in case study research design, ethnography, phenomenology, grounded theory, case study and narrative including methods of structured and focused comparisons of cases, typological theory, case selection, and the use of counterfactual analysis. Next, the seminar will look at the epistemological assumptions, comparative strengths and weaknesses, and proper domain of qualitative study methods and alternative methods. Pre-req: PCAP 712, 720, 732, 742, 752, 760, 772, 810

Learning Module 4

This course examines the linkages between performance, human capital incentives and key performance indicators. Optimization of human capital investments will be analyzed using holistic diagnostic skills. Pre-req: PCAP 712, 720, 732, 742, 752, 760, 772, 810, 820, 832

This course examines selected methods of qualitative and quantitative research methods and design. The course introduces the science and art of collecting, summarizing, analyzing, and describing descriptive data. Selected topics include quasi-experimental design, observational studies, binary logistic regression, exploratory factor analysis, multiple regression, and cluster analysis. Emphasis is placed presentation techniques that are appropriate for academic and/or practitioner stakeholders. Pre-req: PCAP 712, 720, 732, 742, 752, 760, 772, 810, 820, 832

Students pursuing their Ph.D. in Human Capital Management must successfully pass a formal assessment of learning in the PCAP Program. Pre-req: PCAP 712, 720, 732, 742, 752, 760, 772, 810, 820, 832, 840, 850

Ph.D. Dissertation (18 Credit Hours)

The Dissertation for the Ph.D. in Human Capital Management is an original research project involving the collection and analysis of qualitative or quantitative data. Sources of data may include an existing dataset, collaboration with an organization, or the use of a commercially available survey company. The dissertation chair and committee provide help and guidance in developing a research plan, executing the plan, and writing the results. The dissertation topic and research plan must be approved by the student’s dissertation Chair. The written dissertation must be successfully defended to confer the Ph.D. Degree. Pre-req: PCAP 712, 720, 732, 742, 752, 760, 772, 810, 820, 832, 840, 850, 862

What is the difference between a Ph.D. in Human Capital Management and a Ph.D. in Human Resource Management?

Human resources management focuses on policies and practices to manage a workforce and ensure teams are resourced properly while adhering to employment and labor laws. In contrast, human capital management approaches employees as valuable assets that need investment and development to best serve them in alignment with business objectives.

While both are valuable areas of study, this Ph.D. in Human Capital Management program focuses on the latter—developing a student’s research and analytical capabilities as well as the psychological and cultural understanding of how leadership and organizational dynamics can be designed and influenced to serve an organization’s needs.

University Accreditation

Bellevue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission ( hlcommission.org) .

Whether a college, university, or program is accredited is important to students with financial aid, employers who provide tuition assistance, donors, and the federal government.

Students applying for professional license or certification should verify the University’s offerings meet the requirements with the professional organization.

*Consult with an admissions counselor to determine your eligible credits, as well as to verify minimum graduation requirements for this degree. Transfer credits must be from a regionally accredited college or university. Bellevue University makes no promises to prospective students regarding the acceptance of credit awarded by examination, credit for prior learning, or credit for transfer until an evaluation has been conducted.

Become an expert who can impact your business.

100% Online learning that works for your life and your goals.

Our flexible online courses are designed to bring quality learning into a format that fits your schedule, without sacrificing meaningful faculty feedback and collaboration with peers across the country. Stay on track with the help of your Student Coach — with you from day one to graduation.

Find out more about the online experience >

Learn from expert faculty.

Gregory Ashley image

Gregory Ashley, Ph.D.

Dr. Greg Ashley brings extensive experience in building curriculum, instruction, and teaching business, economics, and industrial-organizational psychology courses at all academic levels. His special research interests involve social capital, self-awareness, humility, and psychometrics. Dr. Ashley also directs the Bellevue University Ph.D. program in Human Capital.

Lucy Franks image

Lucy Franks, Ph.D.

Dr. Lucy Franks teaches courses in Leadership and Qualitative Methods and supervises dissertations. She is also the Program Director for the Entrepreneurship concentration in the Master of Science in Management Program. For over twenty years she worked in industry, running an Organization Development & Training unit for a major energy firm, and also as an independent consultant to organizations in the human resources area. Her main research interests are in andragogy, curriculum design, and issues of aging in human resources.

Stephen Linenberger image

Stephen J. Linenberger, Ph.D.

With many years of teaching, course development, research, and training experience, Dr. Linenberger offers expertise in leadership education and practice. He has created and taught courses in social psychology of leadership, leadership ethics, human capital, and organizational leadership. Dr. Linenberger has presented his research at academic conferences and won an international award for his research in leadership education for medical schools. He also has leadership experience from his prior work in human services and retail management.

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Paul Poppler, Ph.D.

Dr. Paul Poppler's extensive experience in research, publication, speaking and program/course development enhances the dynamic aspect of the DBA program. His research interests include business policy and strategy, human capital, human resource management, and ethics.

David Vance image

David Vance, Ph.D.

Dr. David Vance combines his economics and business background with his interest in human capital to explore the concept of running learning like a business and to bring standards and best practices in measurement and reporting to the field. He is the author of The Business of Learning (second edition) and co-author of Measurement Demystified. He was Chief Economist for Caterpillar and President of Caterpillar University before becoming the Executive Director of the Center for Talent Reporting, a nonprofit in the human capital measurement and reporting space.

Nicholas Wolff image

Nicholas Wolff, Ph.D.

Dr. Nick Wolff brings a practical, entrepreneurial perspective to business education and scholarship. His research interests include entrepreneurship, psychometrics, organizational learning, conflict management, and motivation. Dr. Wolff seeks opportunities to foster scenario or game-based learning in his courses. He has authored/co-authored 6 books and has leadership experience from prior work in engineering and business consulting.

Carolyn Youssef-Morgan image

Carolyn Youssef-Morgan, Ph.D.

Dr. Carolyn Youssef-Morgan is the Redding Endowed Chair of Business and a co-founder of the PhD program in human capital. Dr. Youssef-Morgan’s research focuses on developing and managing positivity in the workplace. She specializes in the development of measurable human resource strengths and positive psychological resources such as confidence, hope, optimism, and resilience, which can lead to improved performance, attitudes, and behaviors. She is a leading researcher, author, speaker and consultant on psychological capital. She is the co-author of Psychological Capital: Developing the Human Competitive Edge [Oxford University Press, 2007], and Psychological Capital and Beyond [Oxford University Press, 2015]. Her authoritative and seminal work on psychological capital has been published in prestigious journals, presented at national and international conferences, and applied in organizations worldwide.

Enter a rigorous Ph.D. program, led by supportive faculty.

Tuition & Financial Aid

Doctoral degrees can be more affordable than you think..

Earning a degree is an investment in yourself. We want to help you make sure it’s a wise one.

2023 / 2024 Academic Year

$799 In-Class or Online Cost Per Credit

(Additional fees may apply to individual courses within your major requirements)

Curious about financial aid? We’ve got the answers.

As a graduate student, you may be eligible for up to $20,500 per year in unsubsidized Direct Student Loans.

And, students often apply for graduate program scholarships through Bellevue University or tuition reimbursement through their employers. Talk to us and we’ll help you explore your options.

Learn more about financial aid >

See how career-focused outcomes make this Ph.D. in human capital worth more than the cost of tuition.

How to apply for the Ph.D. in Human Capital Management program.

An applicant holding a master’s degree with an interest in pursuing a Ph.D. through Bellevue University’s Human Capital Management Program, may enroll as either a certificate of completion student or Ph.D. degree-seeking student. All admission materials must be submitted for review by the Program Director prior to admittance into the Ph.D. program.

  • 1. Students can take Modules 1 and 2, which will be correlated to Certificates of Completion if the student chooses not to pursue their Ph.D. Modules 1 and 2 prerequisites for admission into Modules 3 and 4 and full Ph.D. program.
  • 2. Possess a graduate degree from a regionally accredited college or university, or a U.S. equivalent degree from a nationally or internationally accredited college or university.
  • 3. All applicants for graduate admission to Bellevue University are required to submit an Application for Admission accompanied by a one-time application fee of $100 for graduate programs (This fee is waived for Bellevue University Alumni).
  • 4. Provide all official transcripts for Undergraduate and Graduate coursework.
  • 5. Have maintained a GPA of 3.0 or better in previous graduate level coursework earned toward the graduate degree.
  • 6. Have five years of professional experience.
  • 7. International students who do not possess a degree from a postsecondary institution where English is the principal language of instruction must have a minimum score of 575 on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).
  • 8. International credentials must be submitted to World Educational Services (at the applicant's expense) for a formal evaluation.
  • 9. GMAT or GRE – not required

Application materials required when applying for the Ph.D. program are outlined below and must be completed prior to admittance into the program:

  • 10. Submit a resume.
  • Why are you pursuing a PhD?
  • How has your prior education and work experience prepared you for success in the program?
  • What challenges do you anticipate in balancing work, personal commitments, and approximately 20 hours of weekly PHD studies?

Please submit all materials to Graduate Admissions at [email protected] .

For Students Seeking Certificates of Completion

An applicant holding a master’s degree may enroll as either a certificate of completion student or PhD degree-seeking student.

Students must complete modules 1 and 2 of the curriculum for admission into the full PhD program (modules 3 and 4). If a student completes the first two modules but chooses not to pursue their PhD, they can receive Certificates of Completion for the first two modules.

Ready to get started? Reach out to admissions.

  • Get your questions answered about the Ph.D. Human Capital Management
  • Understand your financial aid and scholarship options
  • Map out a schedule that fits with your priorities

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Doctor of Business Admin. (DBA) – Human Resources

Transfer credits, next start date, pursue advanced career opportunities with a dba in human resources.

Our  100% online  Doctor of Business Administration in Human Resources degree program prepares you to lead at the highest levels of business by providing you with the knowledge and skills necessary to head up an organization’s human resources team.  Our DBA in Human Resources degree will  provide you with advanced training in professional management, human resource development, and quality management. 

At  Liberty, our mission is to prepare you to lead with integrity and professionalism, so  our DBA in Human Resources degree will also give you a foundation in human resource ethics and best practices.

Among only 3% of business schools worldwide to receive ACBSP accreditation

Why Choose an Online DBA in Human Resources?

Our online DBA in Human Resources degree program is designed  to  meet your needs as a student and as a professional. Created for flexibility, our 100% online program has no set login in times, so you can complete your coursework when and where it’s best for you. Our DBA in Human Resources degree also gives you the opportunity to network with your professors and peers. With both WebEx meetings and optional intensive courses, you can build relationships with your professors and classmates that will help you succeed in your online program as well as the professional world .

Our online DBA degree in human resources emphasizes practical and real-world applications in both the coursework and the applied doctoral research project. Through our online DBA program, you will achieve mastery of business research methods, quality management, and human resource development tactics that can be applied directly to your organization.

Benefits of Earning a DBA Degree from Liberty University

  • Increased job opportunities
  • Specialized knowledge in accounting, finance, healthcare management, leadership, and many other related areas
  • A challenging and rewarding   DBA degree program curriculum that will help set you apart from others
Military Tuition Discount We want to help you find the doctoral degree you want — at a price you’ve earned. As a thank-you for your military service, Liberty University offers eligible current and former service members like you or your spouse multiple pathways to earn a doctoral degree for only $300/credit hour . Find out how you can take advantage of this unique opportunity as you work towards your goal of reaching the pinnacle of your profession — for less.

What Will You Learn in Our  Online  Human Resources Doctoral Degree Program?

Our online DBA in Human Resources degree is designed to teach you practical skills so you are prepared to lead. T hrough hands-on case studies, experiential exercises, and research, o ur DBA in Human Resources offers a unique approach to online learning. You will explore topics like the changing nature of the labor market, legal issues, and compensation management. Each class within our online d octorate in human resources seeks to sharpen your understanding of these key concepts so you can confidently lead your organization to success.

Featured Courses

  • BUSI 643 – Workforce Planning and Employment
  • BUSI 645 – Compensation Management
  • BUSI 750 – Human Resource Development
  • BUSI 770 – Strategic Thinking for Decision-Making

Admission Requirements for Our DBA in Human Resources Degree Program

A regionally or nationally accredited master’s degree in business or a business-related field with at least 30 hours of graduate business credit with a 3.0 or above GPA is required for admission in good standing. Please visit our admission requirements page for more detailed admissions-related information.

All applicants must submit the following:

  • Admission application
  • Application fee*
  • Official college transcripts 
  • Proof of English proficiency (for applicants whose native language is other than English)

*There is no upfront application fee; however, a deferred $50 application fee will be assessed during Financial Check-In. This fee is waived for qualifying service members, veterans, and military spouses – documentation verifying military status is required.

Our Online Human Resources Doctoral Degree Information

  • This program falls under the School of Business .
  • View the  Doctor of Business Administration Handbook  for additional program information.
  • Review the Degree Completion Plan.
  • View the Graduate Business Course Guides (login required) .

The Applied Doctoral Research Project (ADRP) in the DBA program relates to a business problem in your specialization.

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Potential Career Options with a Human Resources DBA Degree

  • Compensation and benefits manager
  • Development specialist
  • Human resources director 
  • Recruitment specialist

Our Online DBA in Human Resources Program Highlights

  • We are recognized by multiple institutions for our academic quality, affordability, and accessibility . Our commitment to excellence also helped us rank in the top 10% of Niche.com’s best online schools in America . Earning your online DBA in Human Resources degree from a nonprofit university with this kind of recognition can help set you apart from others in your field.
  • Liberty University’s Doctor of Business Administration is accredited by ACBSP , the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. Our School of Business is among only 3% of business schools worldwide to earn ACBSP accreditation.
  • Your success is our success, which is why we are committed to providing quality academics at an affordable tuition rate. While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we have frozen tuition rates for our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past 9 years – and counting.
  • You will be granted access to a wide variety of online resources through Liberty University’s library portal throughout your pursuit of a doctoral degree in human resources.
  • As an online human resources doctoral student, you will have the ability to complete your degree in about 3 years.

*Some restrictions may occur for this promotion to apply. This promotion also excludes active faculty and staff, military, Non-Degree Seeking, DGIA, Continuing Education, WSB, and Certificates.

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Regent University

  • 800.373.5504
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Professionals in a meeting: Pursue a Ph.D. with human resources concentration online at Regent University.

Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership – Human Resource Development

Influence the future of hr through regent’s ph.d. – human resources concentration.

We’ll prepare you to influence and invigorate organizations around the world as a scholar, teacher, or business leader. Through Regent’s Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership – Human Resource Development, offered online, you’ll gain expertise in the dynamics that contribute to the growth of an organization’s human resources. Our online doctoral program in organizational leadership is a research-based terminal degree taught from a Christian worldview. There are no GMAT/GRE requirements. Regent has been ranked among top national universities by the U.S. News & World Report, 2023, and has also been ranked as a Top 10 Military Friendly® School by Military Friendly®, 2023-24. Experience a transformative Ph.D. with a focus on Human Resource Development and gain insights through our Executive Mentor Program .

Careers | Courses | Other Concentrations | Admissions | Tuition

BECOME A THOUGHT LEADER IN HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

Join the ranks of leading contributors to the body of knowledge in human resource development research.

UNDERSTAND DIVERSE PERSPECTIVES

Study human resource development from the individual, group, and team perspectives, and global workforce issues from diverse demographic and cultural perspectives.

MAKE ETHICAL DECISIONS

Explore ethics and trends in learner-centered leadership, and the impact of the dynamic work environment on human resource management practices.

ALIGN YOURSELF WITH EXCELLENCE through a ph.d. with human resources concentration

Regent has been ranked among Top National Universities by the U.S. News & World Report for four years (2019, 2020, 2022 and 2023). Our programs have also been recognized among the Top 5 Best Graduate Online Business (Non-MBA) Programs in Virginia for 9 consecutive years (2015-23). Experience the Regent difference.

Led by our award-winning faculty, this Ph.D. with a human resources concentration will enrich your academic research, writing, and critical thinking skills.

Regent University ranked #2 of Top 25 Accredited Online PhD & Doctoral Degree Programs | Learn.org

After earning this Ph.D. with a concentration in Human Resource Development online, you can:

  • Facilitate learning from the perspective of the learner and the instructor.
  • Integrate emerging trends and technological influences in global HR management.
  • Evaluate ethical theories and frameworks that shape current HR practices.
  • Create strategic initiatives that incorporate the multidisciplinary aspects of human resource management.

Career Opportunities

  • University Faculty
  • Researcher for Government, Corporations and Think Tanks
  • Executive Leader
  • Ecclesial Leadership
  • Entrepreneurial Leadership
  • Individualized Studies
  • Organizational Leadership

2023-24 Semester Check-In Deadlines

All new students are expected to check-in for the semester two weeks before the session start date. Students should apply, be accepted, enroll in their first courses, and confirm a plan to pay for their courses prior to this date.

Doctoral Degree Requirements for Admission

When applying to the Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership or the Doctor of Strategic Leadership programs, the admissions committee, comprised of several faculty members, will use a rubric to independently evaluate and score each of the following criteria:

  • Academic achievement in bachelor’s and master’s programs
  • Writing quality
  • Alignment of personal goals to Ph.D. or DSL outcomes
  • Number of years in leadership positions
  • Leadership development and impact
  • Number of leadership positions held

Prerequisites:

Doctoral applicants must:

  • Hold a master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution or an equivalent degree from a foreign institution, as evaluated by a credential evaluating agency .
  • Submit all application materials such that they are received by the deadline for the semester to which they are applying. Once the application requirements have been fulfilled, an admissions interview may be requested. Interviews are by invitation only.

1. Complete Your Online Application Submit your application using our Regent University Online Application . Note: If you are unable to complete our application due to a disability, please contact our Admissions Office and an admissions representative will provide reasonable accommodations to assist you in completing the application.

2. Submit your Unofficial College Transcripts We are able to examine and view your unofficial transcripts from U.S.-based schools, which indicate successful completion of bachelor’s and master’s degree programs, in order to review you for an admissions decision. Please submit your unofficial transcript to our Admissions Office by email to apply@regent.edu using the subject line: SBL Doctoral Application Pieces .

Non-U.S. transcripts must be evaluated by an NACES-approved company. For further details, please review the International Admissions Checklist on the International Students Admissions page.

International Applicants: Please visit the International Students Admissions page for a more detailed explanation of the Regent University application information and to determine whether or not you qualify as an international student.

*Upon conditional acceptance to the program by review of unofficial transcripts, Regent University’s Admissions Office will attempt to obtain your official transcripts from your U.S. degree-granting institutions, which indicate successful completion of bachelor’s and master’s degree programs. We will notify you if your previous institutions will not release transcripts directly to us.

3. Send Your Professional Resume Provide an updated copy of your professional resume or curriculum vitae that includes:

  • Employment history with details of leadership responsibilities, skill sets and results – the committee looks at both quantity and quality of responsibilities
  • School, community and church leadership positions – the committee looks at both quantity and quality of positions
  • Service activities in which you have been involved
  • Academic and non-academic honors and distinctions you have received

Your resume should be emailed directly to the Admissions Office at apply@regent.edu using the subject line: SBL Doctoral Application Pieces .

4. Submit a Government-Issued ID To ensure academic integrity, Regent University requires a copy of a government-issued ID. Please email a scanned copy or photograph of it to apply@regent.edu with the subject line: Government ID .

5. Submit a Leadership Essay (with Citations) or Graduate Degree Paper (with Citations) Leadership specific writing samples play an important role in helping the Admissions Committee evaluate a doctoral applicant’s research, writing and analytical and problem-solving skills. Your essay should be on “The Most Pressing Leadership Issue of Today” and emailed directly to the Admissions Office at apply@regent.edu using the subject line: SBL Doctoral Application Pieces .

Writing samples play an important role in helping the Admissions Committee evaluate a doctoral applicant’s research, writing, analytical and problem-solving skills.

Please provide a separate essay to address the topic: “The most pressing leadership issue of today.”

The body (excludes a title page or a reference page) of this writing sample should not exceed one page in length (single spaced, 12-point type). The Admissions Committee will evaluate the essay based on the following criteria:

  • Thesis Development and Critical Thinking. The thesis expresses the main idea of the paper in one sentence and informs the reader of the paper’s focus. Critical thinking is the act of examining, analyzing and evaluating information followed by the drawing of accurate conclusions. Thesis development and critical thinking include the following four key elements: (a) thesis, (b) argument, (c) research and (d) analysis.
  • Organization. The structure or outline of the essay assists with the development of the argument and includes fluid transitions to achieve coherence between paragraphs.
  • Paragraph Development. The structure of each paragraph within the outline is vital to the overall stability of the essay and includes the use of transitions and language within each paragraph.
  • Mechanics. Clarity through spelling, grammar, punctuation and capitalization is vital in any written document.
  • Style (APA, MLA or other acceptable style). At the doctoral level, it is important to adhere to a particular writing style as required by the specific academic or professional publication in which one desires to be published. Therefore, the applicant should compose the essay in APA, MLA or other acceptable style. In addition, the applicant should identify the style being used in the writing sample. It is important that the writing sample exhibit the style’s guidelines in the areas of: (a) in-text citations, (b) reference list, (c) title, (d) headings, (e) sub-headings, (f) numbers, (g) serial content, (h) quotes, (i) punctuation, etc. While these styles typically require double spacing, we request that, in the case of this writing sample, applicants use single spacing so the essay does not exceed one page.

Your essay should be emailed directly to the Admissions Office at apply@regent.edu using the subject line: SBL Doctoral Application Pieces .

GRADUATE DEGREE PAPER

If you are opting to submit the Graduate Degree Paper, please ensure this is a submission that contains citations. Your graduate degree paper should be emailed directly to the Admissions Office at apply@regent.edu using the subject line: SBL Doctoral Application Pieces .

Part-Time Students

Full-time students, student fees per semester.

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PART-TIME STUDENTS

*Rates are subject to change at any time.

  • B.S. in Human Resource Management
  • Doctor of Strategic Leadership (DSL)
  • DSL – Human Resource Development
  • M.A. in Organizational Leadership
  • M.A. in Organizational Leadership – Human Resource Management
  • MBA – Human Resource Management

“As a Christian business leader, I regularly use my military experience and Regent education to lead others into a comprehensive vision. I've learned a lot about innovation and organizational culture that fuel my daily work and desire to coach and mentor others to fulfill their God-given purpose.”

“I am thrilled, delighted and honored to be used for His purpose.”

“As a Mexican American growing up in a predominantly Hispanic community, I grew up with the mindset that I was not college material. Regent has given me the opportunity to pursue my dream and become what God has destined in me.”

“I came away from my program at Regent with an increased confidence in my ability to lead an organization and the skills I needed to do it.”

“The faculty at Regent are exceptional, and of course, everything we learn has a biblical foundation. That's priceless.”

Purdue Mitchell E. Daniels, Jr. School of Business logo

Online MS Human Resource Management Class Profile

Global class profile, top locations.

  • Dominican Republic
  • North Carolina
  • Republic of Korea

Download the Class Profile

Average Experience

5 - 15 years

Top Incoming Student Employers

  • Central Intelligence Agency
  • Charles Schwab
  • JPMorgan Chase
  • Morgan Stanley
  • Progressive
  • U.S. Armed Forces
  • U.S. Department of Defense

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

"Your professors want you to do well just as much as you want to do well. And already I’ve been able to implement what I’ve learned into my career.”

Mary Malooley MSHRM '23

Interpretation Information Coordinator The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis Indianapolis, IN

phd online human resources

"The courses I have taken at Purdue University are rigorous and stimulating. They encourage you to become a four-dimensional thinker, a thinker who not only focuses on mastering the field, but can also adapt and absorb ideas from other industries, can analyze problems vertically and horizontally, and knows how to use past failures as stepstones to take a giant leap forward into the future. Purdue is preparing its students to be analytical when faced with problems and training them to make informed decisions.”

Sangho (Sean) Lee MSHRM '23

Owner, Director Lee Brothers Academy Burlington, NC

Headshot of Sangho Lee

Successful Student Attributes

Daniels School students unlock their full potential during their academic journey. Challenges reveal the mettle of a Boilermaker. Our students are tenacious and can be relied upon to see a job through, all while balancing their studies, work and family life.

Pioneering Spirit

At the heart of Purdue University is a passion for discovery, fueled by an entrepreneurial spirit. Daniels School students blaze their own paths, never settling for the status quo.

We look ahead and forever move forward. Daniels School master’s students apply classroom learning and newly developed skills to their professional development plan and their workplace, creating value for themselves and their companies long before graduation.

The "it" Factor

Moxie? Check. Magnetism? Check. Charisma that demands attention? Check.

Enriching Contributor

Daniels School students enrich the school and their cohort, elevating the learning experience for all. Here, diversity transcends ethnicity or gender into realms of thought, industry and academic background.

Emotional Intelligence

Great leaders communicate effectively and with great empathy. Daniels School students are great leaders in training who learn to manage themselves and their relationships with self and social awareness, upping their Emotional Intelligence Quotient (EIQ).

Problem-Solving SKills

At the Daniels School of Business, we roll up our sleeves and dig deep into a problem. Success requires us to approach questions from a variety of angles, combining a solid academic foundation with a flair for the creative. And we are successful.

brian-chupp.webp

Faculty Spotlight

“Purdue University’s Online MS Human Resource Management program is designed for the working professional seeking to sharpen their expertise and deepen their understanding of the field. Our students learn enhanced data-driven methods for making decisions in human resources. This flexible online program establishes a solid foundation in transformational HR and will position you to lead in the world’s leading brands. Our devoted alumni find Purdue’s MSHRM program to be an exceptional return on their investment.”

Brian Chupp

Clinical Assistant Professor, Organizational Behavior / Human Resources PhD, Human Resource Development, M.Ed. Agency Counseling, BA Psychology - The University of Toledo

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School of Education launches online Ed.D. for aspiring leaders across sectors and fields

With approval from the UNC System, the UNC School of Education has launched the University’s first fully online doctoral degree program — the Ed.D. in Organizational Learning and Leadership — which will provide working professionals with knowledge, skills, and experiences to take a human-centered approach to leadership, delivering upon their organization’s goals and mission.

Created and delivered in collaboration with The Graduate School at UNC-Chapel Hill, the UNC Office of Digital and Lifelong Learning, and 2U, the Ed.D. in Organizational Learning and Leadership program’s application is open as of today, March 20. The program’s first cohort of students will begin classes in fall 2024.

“For more than 130 years, the UNC School of Education has prepared leaders for classrooms, schools, and school districts but also institutions well beyond education,” said Fouad Abd-El-Khalick, Ph.D., dean of the UNC School of Education and Alumni Distinguished Professor. “Education happens lifelong and lifewide, and learning happens within successful organizations. Our faculty members have expertise in areas critical to organizational learning and leadership, and we believe this program is an incredible opportunity for professionals to advance their careers and organizations.”

Developed with input from working professionals in both private and public sectors and spanning various industries, the Ed.D. in Organizational Learning and Leadership program is tailored to equip students with specialized courses in improvement science, change leadership, human-centered design, equitable and inclusive practice, research methodology, and more. It will also offer students practical opportunities to implement their learning directly into their professional endeavors.

The program will utilize a blend of interactive online classes, self-paced asynchronous lessons, and an in-person immersion experience on the UNC-Chapel Hill campus. During the immersion experience, students will have the chance to forge meaningful connections with faculty, staff, and fellow students.

The program culminates with a capstone project tasking students with identifying a complex or pervasive challenge faced by their organization. Students will then undertake comprehensive research and implementation efforts to address it and design effective resolutions.

“Our faculty members have intentionally shaped this program and designed its curriculum to prepare professionals with tools to provide immediate value for our students, for the teams they lead or are part of, and for their organizations,” said Thurston Domina, Ph.D., associate dean for academic affairs and director of graduate studies at the School. “When our students graduate, we anticipate they will find success in private companies, government and non-profit organizations, business and management consulting, human resources, project management, leadership coaching or development, and more.”

Carrol Warren, Ed.D., who joined the faculty as an assistant clinical professor on Jan. 1, will lead the program as its inaugural director. Prior to Carolina, Warren served as a teaching assistant professor and faculty fellow with an institutional research center at NC State University.

“Leadership of teams and organizations is a complex endeavor,” said Warren, “and we are excited to welcome students from an array of career stages, roles, organizations, and locations who are committed to that endeavor. I look forward to cultivating robust learning environments where our students and equally committed and expert faculty members engage in ways that ultimately work toward the greater good through human-centered leadership practice.”

Prospective students can begin the online application at online.unc.edu . Deadlines for the first cohort of students, which begins classes in August 2024, are:  

  • Priority deadline: June 11, 2024  
  • Final deadline: July 3, 2024  

For details about application requirements or to contact an admissions counselor, visit online.unc.edu/online-doctoral-programs/online-edd-organizational-learning-and-leadership .  

March 20, 2024

For the Media

  • Email Morgan Ellis
  • (919) 843-0307

Related Topics

  • Leadership & Organizational Change

Related People

  • Carrol L. Warren
  • Thurston Domina

Related Programs

  • Organizational Learning and Leadership
  • Best Online Doctorate in Healthcare Administration

Best Online Doctorate in Healthcare Administration Of 2024

Genevieve Carlton Ph.D.

Published: Mar 22, 2024, 1:49pm

Healthcare executives analyze patient outcomes to develop procedures that improve quality. They also oversee healthcare facility budgets and monitor compliance with healthcare laws and regulations. Earning a doctorate in healthcare administration can prepare you for executive-level roles in these organizations.

At the doctoral level, healthcare administration programs offer several degree options. A Ph.D. emphasizes theory and research, while an applied doctorate like a Doctor of Healthcare Administration (D.H.A.) or a Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.) with an emphasis in healthcare focuses on applied skills. Consider your future career goals to decide which program is right for you.

Pursuing your doctorate in healthcare administration online gives you the flexibility to work while earning the highest degree in healthcare administration . An online format also means you can choose a top-ranked program without uprooting your life. Forbes Advisor ranks the best online doctoral programs in healthcare administration so you can find the best fit for your needs.

Why You Can Trust Forbes Advisor Education

Forbes Advisor’s education editors are committed to producing unbiased rankings and informative articles covering online colleges, tech bootcamps and career paths. Our ranking methodologies use data from the National Center for Education Statistics , education providers, and reputable educational and professional organizations. An advisory board of educators and other subject matter experts reviews and verifies our content to bring you trustworthy, up-to-date information. Advertisers do not influence our rankings or editorial content.

  • 6,290 accredited, nonprofit colleges and universities analyzed nationwide
  • 52 reputable tech bootcamp providers evaluated for our rankings
  • All content is fact-checked and updated on an annual basis
  • Rankings undergo five rounds of fact-checking
  • Only 7.12% of all colleges, universities and bootcamp providers we consider are awarded

Our Methodology

We ranked 11 accredited, nonprofit colleges offering online doctoral degree programs in healthcare administration in the U.S. using 15 data points in the categories of credibility, affordability, student outcomes and student experience. We pulled data for these categories from reliable resources such as the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ; private, third-party data sources; and individual school and program websites.

Data is accurate as of June 2023. Note that because online doctorates are relatively uncommon, fewer schools meet our ranking standards at the doctoral level.

We scored schools based on the following metrics:

Student Outcomes:

  • Overall graduation rate
  • Median earnings 10 years after graduation

Affordability:

  • In-state graduate student tuition
  • In-state graduate student fees
  • Alternative tuition plans offered
  • Median federal student loan debt
  • Percentage of students in federal student loan deferment

Student Experience:

  • Student-to-faculty ratio
  • Socioeconomic diversity
  • Availability of online coursework
  • Total number of graduate assistants
  • More than 50% of graduate students enrolled in at least some distance education

Credibility:

  • Fully accredited
  • Programmatic accreditation status
  • Nonprofit status

We chose the 10 best schools to display based on those receiving a curved final score of 51% or higher.

Find our full list of methodologies here .

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Degree Finder

Best online ph.d. in healthcare administration options, university of colorado denver, should you enroll in an online ph.d. in healthcare administration program, accreditation for doctorates in healthcare administration online, how to find the right online ph.d. in healthcare administration for you, frequently asked questions (faqs) about online doctorates in healthcare administration, mcphs university, franklin university, liberty university, national university, university of oklahoma-health sciences center, indiana wesleyan university-national & global.

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Virginia University of Lynchburg

William carey university, a t still university of health sciences, featured online schools.

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial credit and much more by clicking 'Visit Site'

MCPHS University

Graduate Tuition

$1,110/credit

Percentage of Grad Students Enrolled in Distance Education

Overall Graduation Rate

Located in Boston, Massachusetts, MCPHS University offers a part-time doctorate in healthcare administration. The private institution emphasizes interdisciplinary coursework, blending topics such as healthcare systems, data analytics, healthcare leadership and finance in its D.H.A. program.

Graduate students strengthen their professional practice and leadership skills while examining healthcare administration challenges. Applicants must hold a master’s or doctoral degree from a regionally accredited institution plus complete three to five years of healthcare-related experience. The program also requires a faculty interview during the admissions process.

  • Our Flexibility Rating: Learn on your schedule
  • School Type: Private
  • Application Fee: Free
  • Degree Credit Requirements: 54 credits
  • Program Enrollment Options: Part-time
  • Notable Major-Specific Courses: Strategic planning for health organizations, patient safety and risk management, ethics for healthcare leaders
  • Concentrations Available: N/A
  • In-Person Requirements: No

Franklin University

$748/credit

At Franklin University , Doctor of Healthcare Administration students complete two years of coursework and one year working on a dissertation. During the program, learners develop organizational strategies to improve healthcare outcomes.

Franklin offers optional eight-credit focus areas, including health informatics, public administration, finance and management. A focus area can prepare graduates for specific career paths after completing the doctoral program.

  • Application Fee: $50
  • Degree Credit Requirements: 58 credits
  • Program Enrollment Options: Part-time, full-time
  • Notable Major-Specific Courses: Healthcare policy, regulations and reform; organizations, community and global health; healthcare quality, process and improvement
  • Concentrations Available: Education, health informatics, human resource management, instructional design leadership, management, marketing, methodology, public administration, information technology, finance

Liberty University

$595/credit (full-time)

Liberty University offers an online Doctor of Business Administration in healthcare management. Learners complete courses on an eight-week schedule, with the option to transfer up to half of the 60 credits required for the D.B.A. degree.

Graduate students strengthen their management, quality control, and human resource development abilities. The curriculum emphasizes streamlining business processes and practical knowledge. At the culmination of the program, doctoral students complete an applied research project that contributes to their specialization.

  • Degree Credit Requirements: 60 credits
  • Notable Major-Specific Courses: Healthcare informatics, managing human capital in healthcare, legal and ethical issues for health professionals

National University

$442/credit

The fully online Doctor of Health Administration program at National University uses a practice-based curriculum. Graduate students examine legal and ethical issues in the healthcare industry while learning how policy impacts outcomes. The program prepares graduates for executive-level roles in healthcare.

Applicants should hold a master’s degree and complete at least three years of industry experience before enrolling in the D.H.A. program. NU also offers a dissertation completion pathway designed for doctoral students who have completed their coursework elsewhere but still need to finish their dissertation.

  • Our Flexibility Rating: Learn around your 9-to-5
  • Notable Major-Specific Courses: Healthcare quality management, health leadership and systems thinking

University of Oklahoma-Health Sciences Center

$234/credit (in-state)

The University of Oklahoma-Health Sciences Center offers one of the most affordable tuition rates for a healthcare administration doctorate. Oklahoma residents enrolled in the D.H.A. program pay just $234 per credit, while out-of-state online students pay $364.

During the program, learners explore clinical operations management while reviewing case studies on healthcare quality and process improvement. Incoming students with a master’s degree can apply up to 30 credits toward the 62-credit doctoral program requirements.

  • School Type: Public
  • Degree Credit Requirements: 62 credits
  • Notable Major-Specific Courses: Healthcare public policy, dynamics of healthcare markets, advanced healthcare law

Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global

$595/credit

From its main campus in Marion, Indiana, Indiana Wesleyan University offers several online graduate programs. Degree-seekers can pursue a Doctor of Business Administration with a specialization in healthcare administration at the private institution.

Learners complete one class at a time, with no dissertation requirement to graduate. Instead, doctoral candidates complete a project that focuses on real-world problems. The program requires one weekend residency each year and takes approximately three years to complete.

  • Notable Major-Specific Courses: Organizational, community and global health administration; issues in strategic planning and organizational development for healthcare administrators; healthcare innovation, informatics and change management
  • In-Person Requirements: Yes, one weekend residency per year

University of Colorado Denver

$85,000 total cost

The University of Colorado Denver uses a hybrid format in its Executive Doctorate in Health Administration program. Graduate students primarily complete coursework online, with two one-week sessions on the private university’s Denver campus each year.

As part of the Business School Alliance for Health Management, the program takes an interdisciplinary approach, with instructors who bring experience as healthcare practitioners, executives and educators. Students benefit from executive-focused career support and a mentoring program.

Applicants should hold a master’s degree and bring at least five years of professional experience in a health-related organization.

  • Notable Major-Specific Courses: Healthcare leadership, global health systems, managing healthcare information
  • In-Person Requirements: Yes, two one-week sessions on campus per year

Virginia University of Lynchburg

$19,500 total cost

The Doctor of Healthcare Administration program at Virginia University of Lynchburg uses a self-paced, module-based curriculum. At the private Christian university, doctoral students in healthcare administration strengthen their leadership and business skills.

In the fully online 12-month program, learners complete three practicums in teaching, research and leadership to prepare for top-level healthcare roles. Applicants must hold a master’s degree, and the program requires at least 90 credit hours at the graduate level.

  • Our Flexibility Rating: Learn on a set schedule
  • Application Fee: $25
  • Degree Credit Requirements: 36 credits
  • Notable Major-Specific Courses: Global healthcare strategy, risk management, organizational communication

William Carey University

$475/credit

A private Christian institution in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, William Carey University offers a Ph.D. in health administration and education designed for healthcare professionals with a master’s degree.

Coursework in role development, program evaluation and strategic management prepare graduates for careers in healthcare administration or education. The online program takes two to three years. It incorporates two in-person meetings and two synchronous online weekend meetings each year, allowing graduate students to work full time while pursuing a doctorate.

  • Application Fee: $40
  • Notable Major-Specific Courses: Healthcare economics and finance, human resources in healthcare administration, strategic management and planning
  • In-Person Requirements: Yes, two in-person meetings per year

A T Still University of Health Sciences

$1,010/credit

A.T. Still University specializes in graduate-level healthcare programs. Designed for current health professionals, the Doctor of Health Administration program emphasizes leadership and problem-solving in the healthcare industry. Students explore innovative approaches to health administration while learning advanced business strategies.

The program’s academic focus areas include healthcare law, the economics of medical care and organizational theory in the health industry. Applicants benefit from four start dates each year; the doctorate typically requires three to five years. Doctoral candidates write a theoretical or applied dissertation during their final 20 credits of coursework.

  • Application Fee: $75
  • Notable Major-Specific Courses: Population health, healthcare economics and financial management, healthcare organization informatics

Pursuing a doctorate in healthcare administration can advance your career. But is an online or on-campus format right for you? Online learning prioritizes accessibility and convenience, allowing degree-seekers to attend a top-ranked program without relocating.

Before deciding to earn your doctorate online , consider the following factors.

What’s your budget for earning a doctorate in healthcare administration? Most doctoral programs require a substantial time commitment, which can influence the total cost of the degree.

Choosing an online format can save you money on tuition and expenses. For example, distance learners typically spend less on transportation and housing costs, because they study from home rather than commuting to campus or relocating for graduate school.

Online programs offer a significant benefit over in-person programs: the flexibility to complete coursework on your schedule. Most online healthcare administration doctoral programs use asynchronous classes, meaning you can earn your degree without set log-in times. That can make earning a doctorate easier for working professionals and busy adults.

Learning Style

Earning a doctorate online requires strong time management and organizational skills, especially if you plan to work while in graduate school. Self-motivated students often benefit from the flexibility of an online learning style, while others prefer the structure of an in-person program.

Which is right for you? If you haven’t taken classes online before, consider whether the format works well for your unique learning style.

Accreditation

You should always choose an accredited institution, whether earning your degree online or on-campus. Online universities with accreditation meet the same high standards as brick-and-mortar institutions, so check the school’s accreditation status before applying.

The best universities hold accreditation from an independent, nonprofit accrediting agency. In order to receive accreditation, institutions undergo a rigorous review that covers their graduation requirements, faculty qualifications and student learning outcomes. Accredited schools regularly repeat this process to maintain their credential.

In addition to institutional accreditation, healthcare administration programs may hold accreditation from specialized accrediting agencies. For example, the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education grants accreditation to master’s programs in healthcare administration and management. Doctoral programs housed in the business school may also hold accreditation from a programmatic accreditor in business.

The U.S. Department of Education maintains a Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs where you can check accreditation status.

Consider Your Future Goals

An online doctorate can prepare you for executive leadership positions, academic positions or top-level careers in healthcare administration . When researching your options, make sure you look for programs that match your future goals.

For example, Ph.D. programs often lead to academic and research roles, while D.H.A. and D.B.A. programs prepare graduates for leadership careers in the healthcare field.

It’s also a good idea to review each program’s curriculum to understand their emphasis areas and your opportunities to customize the program. Check if the degree requires you to complete a research-based dissertation or a doctoral project.

Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options

The cost of a doctorate in healthcare administration varies widely. Programs on our list range from $234 to over $1,000 per credit. Most degrees require 54 to 62 credits, totaling about $14,500 to $85,000.

Comparing costs and understanding your financing options can help you find a program that fits your budget. For example, distance learners attending accredited institutions qualify for federal student aid programs, including federal loans that offer lower interest rates and more repayment options. You can file the FAFSA to learn about your federal aid options.

Other financing options include grants, scholarships and assistantships. You can also cover some or all of your costs with savings.

Is it worth it to get a Ph.D. in healthcare administration?

Earning a Ph.D. in healthcare administration can prepare you for academic, research and leadership roles. For example, most college professors hold a Ph.D. When comparing doctoral programs in healthcare administration, you can also look at D.H.A. and D.B.A. programs.

How long is a Ph.D. in healthcare administration?

A Ph.D. in healthcare administration typically requires four to six years, including coursework and a dissertation. D.H.A. programs generally take less time; many full-time programs require three years.

What is the difference between a Ph.D. and a D.H.A.?

Both a Ph.D. and a D.H.A. are doctoral-level programs in healthcare management. However, a Ph.D. typically emphasizes research and theory, including a research-based doctoral dissertation. D.H.A. programs focus on applied knowledge and skills and may require a real-world project rather than a dissertation.

Is there a Ph.D. in healthcare management?

Yes, you can earn a Ph.D. in healthcare management. Many universities offer doctoral-level healthcare management and administration programs, including options to earn a Ph.D., D.H.A. or D.B.A. with a concentration in healthcare management.

Genevieve Carlton Ph.D.

Genevieve Carlton holds a Ph.D. in history from Northwestern University and earned tenure at the University of Louisville. Drawing on over 15 years of experience in higher education, Genevieve provides practical, research-based advice on college degrees, career training and other higher education topics.

The University is aware of a disturbing interview conducted on the CSUN Campus that was posted on social media. Police Services investigated the social media post and found it to be a hoax and there is no known threat. The person who created the video stated the interview was scripted and staged. Please follow the link to the CSUN Department of Police Services home page for more information.  https://www.csun.edu/police/ 

Department of Family & Consumer Sciences

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Welcome to the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences

Family & Consumer Sciences (FCS) encompasses the study of relationships among people and their personal environments, focusing on the impact of physical, biological, and social environments on human behavior and development.

Careers in FCS

Undergraduate Programs

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Apparel Design and Merchandising

A major in apparel merchandising can open you to the world of clothing, beyond design, and give you the background you need to succeed in the textile or apparel industry.

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Consumer Affairs

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Family Studies

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Interior Design

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Nutrition & Dietetics, and Food Science

Graduate programs.

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M.S. in Family and Consumer Sciences

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M.S. in Human Nutrition

February 6, 2024

FCS Graduate Program Open House

Are you ready to take your next step in your academic journey after a Bachelors? Then come join the FCS Depar...

Sustainable Fashion Program Online Panel Talk Series: Textile Waste

Join the Sustainable Fashion Program (SFP) for an online panel talk introducing environmentally conscious pro...

HHD Student Town Hall

HHD wants to hear your voice!  The College of Health and Human Development is holding a Student Town Hall Me...

Department Chair

Yi 'Tom' Cai

18111 Nordhoff Street, Northridge CA 91330-8320 Administrative Offices Sequoia Hall 141

  • Phone: (818) 677-3051

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  26. Department of Family & Consumer Sciences (FCS)

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  27. Marketing Toolkit

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