Human Resource Management

Objectives

Today’s work environment requires human resource professionals to be key partners in helping organizations achieve their goals. Selecting, developing, and retaining the right individuals for the right jobs are essential to an organization’s success.

This major is an interdisciplinary program housed within the Department of Psychology and designed for students who seek a career in the Human Resource Management field. Students are prepared to handle responsibilities involving recruitment, selection, training, appraisal, compensation, organizational communication and other HRM activities. Opportunities for employment are found in the private sector, not-for-profit organizations, and in state and local government.

Students in the program will learn the essential functions of the human resources professional, as well as organizational psychology and business concepts, and will demonstrate an understanding of the principles of human resource management.

The Human Resource Management major is offered to students under 24 years of age in the usual 16-week format. This traditional format is offered through the College of Arts and Sciences.

The Human Resource Management major is also offered in 8-week courses to students who are 24 years of age and older. Courses in this accelerated format are designed for working adults. Classes are offered in the evenings in 8-week sessions, as well as online and in blended (online and face-to-face) formats. The accelerated HRM major is offered through the School for Professional and Continuing Education. Emphasis is placed on direct skill development and application with most classes taught by working professionals.

Student Outcomes

Students who earn a degree in Human Resource Management will be able to
1. Understand the broad areas of psychology, including behaviorism, psychodynamic theory, cognitive theory, humanistic theory, and the biological bases of behavior.
2. Use knowledge of statistics and research design to plan and execute a research project.
3. Criticize research conclusions.
4. Understand direct, real world application of psychological knowledge.
5. Apply ethical reasoning to psychological work.