Students interested in FIU's Master of Science in Human Resource Management (MSHRM) program often ask our admissions team which degree would be a better fit: the MSHRM or an MBA?
The answer to the question all depends on your own career goals.
Pursuing an MBA with a human resource management track
The versatile MBA is one of the most sought-after degrees by students because its curriculum focuses on business and management on a broader level. The skills developed in these programs can help handle different aspects of a company, without focusing in-depth on any particular topic.
Most MBA programs have implemented specialization tracks, like human resource management, that have piqued the interest of professionals. These programs are designed to have two to three elective courses that dive a little further into your chosen specialization on top of the core business courses like finance, accounting, marketing, etc.
An MBA program’s curriculum covers enough to allow you to get your foot in the door with any business. However, an MBA doesn’t provide the knowledge and tools needed to make a real impact as an HR professional, since the curriculum covers more of a general scope of HR topics.
Pursuing a Master of Science in Human Resource Management
Master of science in human resource management programs have a curriculum that is highly focused on courses that cover crucial human resource topics. Rather than two to three classes about HR, you will have a full curriculum. This gives you a greater opportunity to receive hands-on experience within the field and develop the skills necessary to create and implement policies.
This specialized degree caters to professionals who wish to not only continue in the HR field but to advance their careers within it. You'll prepare for higher positions and greater responsibility. Not to mention, you will have the vast knowledge and skills to start making an impact from day one on the job.
What are your goals?
While an MBA program will provide general knowledge about businesses, the MSHRM program will offer a unique business perspective by emphasizing the importance of human capital and its power. If you are unsure about your future and the role you wish to play in a business, you should consider earning an MBA to pursue different positions within a company.
If you know that HR is your future and want the skills necessary to lead and innovate, a master’s degree in HR will provide you all the tools and knowledge. To learn more about the benefits of a master’s degree in human resources, read "is a master’s degree in human resource management worth it?"
Whichever you choose, an MBA or a master’s degree, empowering yourself with education will always open a world of new opportunities.