University of Illinois School of Labor & Employment Relations

Master of Human Resoures and Industrial Relations

Complete your master’s degree in human resources online!

Illinois’ accredited and internationally recognized master’s program is tailored to the needs of working professionals. Students in our online MHRIR program earn their degree in two years, while continuing to work. Whether you have prior experience in human resources or you are transitioning from another function, you will find immediate connections from your courses to your work.

Our experienced faculty and industry experts hold weekly virtual class sessions, where students’ professional experiences provide deeper entry into course topics. The MHRIR curriculum is designed to build business acumen and a strong foundation in human resources and labor relations. Annetta Allison, Human Resources Coordinator at Illinois Public Media, designed a change management plan to align her organization’s structure with a new strategic plan, “I used [the final project] as a tool to gain approval from our executive committee on how I would execute the reorganization. The Executive Director said that my preparation helped make their decision an easy one.” In each course, students are encouraged to apply their coursework to their careers. Students benefit from peer networking in selective cohorts – our students have an average of eight years of experience in HR and related business functions. “When I heard that the program was being offered online, I was excited for the opportunity to experience the program virtually, expand my network of HR professionals … and enhance my knowledge of Labor and Employment Relations,” said Annette Gorzelany, online alumna who was promoted to Labor Relations Specialist at The Boeing Company. Each cohort includes a diverse and experienced group of working professionals from long-standing corporate partners like BP, PepsiCo, and Cargill, in addition to professionals in non-profit, consulting, and higher education institutions. Beyond the classroom, our students are building their professional networks and participating in an active community of practitioners. These networking opportunities support professional advancement while in the program. Over 25% of our first cohort received new positions while in the program. We encourage prospective students to connect with us to evaluate their suitability for a GRE/GMAT waiver. For more information, visit go.illinois.edu/ LERonline or email Eden Haycraft, Associate Director, Graduate Online Programs at ehaycra@illinois.edu.

$20k average salary increase after completing the program.

73% are promoted into new roles within six months of graduating.