Master of Science in Human Resources

Kurtis Takamine, Ed.D., Interim Dean, Professional Studies

Melissa Biel, M.S.N., D.P.A.

Tracy Gibson, Ph.D.

James V. Neblett III, D.B.A., SPHR

The master's program in human resources is designed for experienced human resources professionals, as well as those individuals who are new to the field of human resources or who desire to enter the field of human resources.

The human resources program prepares graduates to attract, retain and develop human resources in organizations (public or private, military or non-profit), and become partners with top management in policy-making and strategic decision-making.

The goal of the human resources program is to provide students with specialized knowledge of the systems of human resources in organizations. The program focuses on theories and practical applications of human resources, as well as the role of the human resources practitioner as a change agent and strategic partner.

The master of science degree in human resources is a unique interdisciplinary course of study, specifically designed to provide the working professional with the specialized skills and knowledge to address cultural, regulatory, behavioral and social changes in today's diverse society, and to deal with them efficiently, effectively, and with sensitivity and compassion. Simply stated, the program is designed for students interested in making a difference in society, in their organizations, and in their careers.

Admission to the Program

Admission to the Chapman human resources program is competitive. Applicants are evaluated on academic performance, leadership ability, work experience and communication skills. Admission to the program may be achieved by the completion of the following requirements:

1. Satisfactorily fulfill graduate admission requirements for University College as stated in the catalog. (See the Graduate Admissions section.)
2. If the student uses Option Two in the CUC graduate admissions requirements, submit passing scores from one of the following standard admission tests:

   Graduate Record Examination (GRE): achieve the required minimum scores on two out of three of the subsections of the GRE or score at or above the 60th percentile on any one of the Graduate Subject Tests. (Minimum score for quantitative or verbal sections is 450. Minimum score for analytic writing is 4.5.)

   Miller Analogies Test (MAT): a minimum raw scaled of 400.

   Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT): fulfill the formula GMAT + (GPA x 200)> 1000.

3. Complete the application form for graduate admission, including a Statement of Intent essay.
4. Submit two letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with the applicant's academic or professional abilities.
5. Option Four: Students may apply for admission under Option Four. Option Four criteria requires submission of a portfolio of evidence that shows adequate preparation for graduate studies. Specific criteria for Option Four is discussed in the Graduate Admission section of this catalog.

Applicants are favorably considered when they have demonstrated solid academic ability as measured through the undergraduate GPA and performance on the GRE, GMAT or MAT, as well as career potential based on work experience and other activities and letters of recommendation.

Transfer of Coursework

A maximum of 9 semester credits may be accepted in transfer toward the Master of Science in Human Resources degree program. (See Academic Policies and Procedures section.)

In addition to university policies concerning transfer of coursework (see Academic Policies and Procedures section), the human resources program will accept transfer of military coursework which meet the following requirements:

1. Course requested for transfer must include an official transcript or copy of ACE evaluation which verifies graduate-level work;
2. Coursework must be letter graded or provide verification of completion at a grade of "B" or higher;
3. Coursework must be comparable to programmatic requirements (if marginal comparability, a written statement of rationale must be provided); and
4. Military coursework will be accepted in transfer as fulfilling prerequisite and elective requirements only.

Specific Requirements for the Degree

The human resources program consists of three segments. The first segment is the 27-credit core; the second segment is the 9 credit elective area; and the third segment is the comprehensive exam.

Comprehensive Examination

Prior to graduation, the candidate must achieve a passing grade on a comprehensive examination designed to test mastery of the program content. Students must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 "B" and have completed all prerequisites and core courses (except HRCU 680) to meet the minimum eligibility requirements to take the comprehensive examination. (See the Academic Policies and Procedures section for additional guidelines.)

The comprehensive examination will cover the core courses and course objectives. It is designed to afford the candidate the opportunity to demonstrate understanding of the material in an essay exam format. Passing grades in courses do not assure the candidate of a passing grade on the comprehensive examination. (See Academic Policies and Procedures for additional guidelines.)

Graduate Certificate in Human Resources Development

The graduate certificate in human resources development is designed for human resource practitioners, for those working in human resources who may not have formal training in the field, or for those individuals working in non-human resources departments who simply wish to increase their knowledge of human resources. The 15 credit program allows a student to achieve an overview of the field through a series of courses.

Admission to the certificate program is granted to individuals who meet the standards for admission to a graduate program. No transfer credit may be used. All course prerequisites must be completed.

The coursework is also applicable to the master's program if the following requirements are met:

1. All certificate coursework applied to the master's program must be completed with a grade of "C" or higher for each course. Student must maintain a cumulative grade point average of 3.0.
2. All master's degree requirements must be completed in a seven year period.