Program Benefits
The online Master of Human Relations (MHR) combines theoretical perspectives from social sciences, humanities and the world of work and service. With two specializations available, this degree gives you the knowledge and practical skills to work in Human Relations, leadership and talent management, general management and other human skills roles.
Specialize Your Degree
OU’s MHR offers specializations in Inclusive Leadership, or Diversity, Equity, and Strategic Impact - so you can choose which option aligns with your passion and career goals.
Inclusive Leadership
This concentration focuses on applying diversity, equity, and inclusion principles to examine organizational relationships, processes, and systems. It emphasizes leadership development, ethical problem-solving, and fostering intercultural awareness with effective strategies.
Diversity, Equity, and Strategic Impact
This concentration teaches professionals how to drive structural change by advocating for policy reform, designing programs, and evaluating outcomes.
In-Demand Skills
A Master of Human Relations degree can help you develop the leadership skills you need to be successful in any field. You will learn how to motivate and inspire others, build teams, and manage change.
Join a Global Legacy
Earn your online degree from a prestigious institution, the University of Oklahoma. Expand your horizons within the influential Sooner alumni, faculty, and industry network worldwide.
Accelerated, Online Program
Developed for working adults and delivered online, you can complete your coursework at your convenience in as little as 15 months.
Human Relations vs. Human Resources:
What’s the difference?
Distinguishing between the Master of Human Relations and the Master of Human Resources is important, as they share some common ground yet differ in key ways. While both degrees offer potential access to HR-related roles, understanding these differences is important to make an informed choice that aligns with your unique aspirations. Below, we highlight some of these distinctions to help you make an informed decision.
| Master of Human Relations | Master of Human Resources | |
| Who it’s for | Individuals interested in a broad understanding of human behavior and relationships. Those seeking careers in counseling, social work, or nonprofit organizations. |
HR professionals looking to advance their careers. Individuals interested in managing human resource functions within an organization. |
| Curriculum | Curriculum emphasizes interpersonal skills, communication, and understanding human behavior. Courses may include conflict resolution, diversity, psychology, and counseling. |
Curriculum focuses on HR management, staffing, compensation, labor relations, and legal aspects of HR. Courses may include HR strategy, talent management, labor law, and employment relations. |
| Benefits |
Gain a deeper understanding of human behavior and how to motivate and engage employees. Develop the skills to resolve conflict and build positive relationships in the workplace. Learn how to create a more inclusive and equitable workplace culture. Prepare for a career in human resources, social work, counseling, or organizational consulting. |
Develop the skills and knowledge necessary to manage the Human Resource function of an organization. Learn how to recruit, train, and develop employees. Develop and implement Human Resource policies and procedures. Prepare for a career in human resources management, recruiting, training and development, compensation and benefits, or labor relations. |
| Key Considerations |
Skills set acquired from this degree is broader and can be applied to diverse fields beyond Human Resources. Graduates often work in roles involving counseling and people-focused positions. |
Provides specialized human resources knowledge essential for Human Resource leadership and management positions. |
| Workplace Application |
Graduates typically excel in roles requiring strong interpersonal skills, like counselors, therapists, and mediators. They can work in Human Resources but may focus more on employee relations and team dynamics. Mediation and conflict resolution in the workplace. Employee counseling and development. Training and development coordination. |
Graduates typically excel in Human Resource roles, particularly in management, talent acquisition, and labor relations. They can also work in various other roles, leveraging their Human Resource expertise. Recruitment and staffing strategies. Compensation and benefits management. Human Resource policy development and implementation. |
It is important to note that this information is a general comparison between a Master of Human Relations and a Master of Human Resources, and that specific program information will vary among schools. Candidates are encouraged to do their own research for the programs that are of interest to them.