Is an masters degree in HRM worth it ?
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Someone asked me recently: "What actually creates a good workplace culture?" My answer? I do not think it is values posters. I do not think it is free coffee. I do not think it is engagement events. I think it is how people are treated on an ordinary Tuesday when nobody is watching. What would your answer be?
Is anyone else besides me tired? Lately, I’ve found myself tired of Talent Acquisition. Not recruiting itself, but the constant pressure, shifting priorities, and metrics that are often tied to things outside of our control. Before anyone says, “Move into HR,” I’m not convinced the grass is greener. Every area seems to come with its own stress and frustrations. Some days it’s exhausting. I enjoy the flexibility, but it’s so annoying sometimes. Is it just me?
It was for me. I completed my MBA, specializing in HRM, and was offered the role of HR Manager a year later. I likely would not have been promoted so soon if I only had my BS. I do not currently have any HR certifications but do plan to pursue them through HRCI over the next couple of years. The certs are not vital to keeping or advancing in my role but more of a goal for self-improvement and sense of accomplishment.
I suppose it depends on your goals. If you are looking into inching up into the corporate ladder, then it could be useful. Personally though, I feel like post-grad degrees are overrated. It's only valuable maybe in the first 2 years after you earn it but its value dwindles in time. Although for some industries, having a master's degree is the minimum.
It depends on what you want to do. DEI is growing in popularity, but you have to consider if you want to be more specialized or have more general knowledge. You will likely take at least one course and have DEI included other courses in the HR masters and learn other hr topics to make you more diverse in what you can contribute to the workplace.
It somehow helps if you want to go far as an HR practitioner and become a manager or a position in the executive management. For me, I would as it could be worth it as part of your career pathing in HR. Good luck!
I'm assuming you mean worth it for getting a job. If that is the case, my answer is yes, it won't hurt. Also, there are other ways to get jobs you want.
I got my MS HRM at stony brook university graduated in 2014. It’s been instrumental in opening doors for me as a beginner in the career and establishes credibility earlier. I wish I would’ve done an MBA with a focus in HR though vs an MS HRM.
I don’t think so.