What is MBA in HR: A Comprehensive Guide to Human Resource Management Careers

An MBA in Human Resources (HR) prepares you to manage a company's workforce effectively, aligning HR strategies with business goals.

Human Resource Management (HRM) focuses on key responsibilities such as recruitment, training, performance management, and employee relations.

In this blog, learn what is MBA in HR, its key responsibilities, and how it can boost your HR career.

What is MBA in HR? Overview and Key Benefits of Pursuing This Degree

An MBA in HR (Human Resource Management) is a graduate-level program that blends core business principles with advanced HR practices. It prepares you for leadership roles in managing talent, improving organizational culture, and aligning HR with business objectives.

Key highlights of the program:

• Combines strategic business decision-making with HR expertise.
• Develops a deep understanding of business operations.
• Focuses on recruitment, employee relations, performance management, and organizational development.
• Prepares graduates for strategic roles to address complex workforce dynamics and contribute to organizational success.

Below are the advantages of pursuing an MBA in HR.

Key Advantages of Pursuing MBA in Human Resource Management

Pursuing an MBA in HR opens doors to numerous benefits and career opportunities. By integrating human resource management with business strategies, this degree provides a solid foundation for a career in the industry.

• Career advancement opportunities: The MBA in HR allows you to move into leadership and managerial positions. For example, many HR professionals with this degree progress to roles such as Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) or Director of Human Resources.
• Higher salary potential: Studies indicate that individuals with an MBA in HR generally earn higher salaries compared to those with only undergraduate degrees in human resources. 

On average, salaries in HR management can range from INR 5L to INR 30L annually, depending on experience and role.

• Diverse job roles in HR: Graduates of this program have access to various roles in HR, such as Recruitment Manager, HR Analyst, Employee Relations Manager, and Training and Development Specialist. This diversity allows you to tailor your career according to your interests and skills.
• Enhanced leadership and communication skills: The program is designed to develop your leadership abilities. Courses in negotiation, conflict resolution, and team management hone your communication skills, making you an effective leader.
• Global career prospects and industry demand: The global demand for skilled HR professionals is on the rise, with companies seeking leaders who can manage a diverse workforce, navigate regulatory changes, and adopt cutting-edge HR technologies. 

The international scope of the degree opens up career opportunities across borders, especially in multinational corporations.

Also Read: Top 7 Concepts to Learn During an MBA in Human Resources Management

Now, let’s explore the various types of MBA in HR programs available to you. 

Different Types of MBA in HR Programs and Course Formats

The MBA in HR is offered in multiple formats to cater to the diverse needs of aspiring HR professionals. These formats allow you to balance studies with work, offering flexibility while ensuring you gain essential knowledge and skills.

Below are the common types of MBA in HR programs you may encounter:

Also Read: Scope of MBA in HR: Job Roles, Skills, Top Companies & Future

Now, we will explore the core subjects and specializations within an MBA in HR. 

Core Subjects and Specializations in MBA HR

An MBA in HR covers a broad range of subjects that blend business and HR principles. The curriculum is designed to provide a well-rounded education in both managerial and HR-specific skills. 

Here are some of the core subjects options you can expect:

Also Read: Top 15 Career Options After MBA In HR

Now, let’s have a look at the various specializations offered in an MBA in HR program.

Also Read: HR Management Made Easy Using 15 HR Tools and Softwares

To further guide you in your pursuit of an MBA in HR, let’s now look at some of the top colleges in India offering this degree. This list includes colleges with excellent academic reputations and robust HR programs.

Top Colleges in India for Pursuing MBA in HR

When choosing an institution to pursue your MBA in HR, it's essential to consider factors like faculty expertise, industry connections, and placement records. Below are the top 10 colleges in India, renowned for their HR programs, along with their average fees:

Also Read: What is Human Resource Management Information System (HRIS)?

Now that you understand the benefits of an MBA in HR, let's explore the eligibility criteria and admission process.

MBA in HR: Eligibility Criteria and Admission Requirements

Securing admission to an MBA in HR program involves meeting certain eligibility criteria and completing an admission process. These steps ensure that you have the necessary academic background, professional experience (if required), and the skills to succeed in the demanding field of human resource management. 

Here is a detailed breakdown of the eligibility criteria that typically need to be met to pursue an MBA in HR.

Basic Eligibility Criteria for MBA in HR

The basic eligibility criteria for an MBA in HR are designed to ensure that you have the necessary academic foundation and professional qualifications to succeed in the program.

The following are the common requirements for most institutions:

Also Read: What is Strategic Human Resource Management? Types, Functions, Examples

To gain further clarity, let’s explore the entrance exams that are crucial for securing a spot in an MBA in HR program. 

Entrance Exams for MBA in HR

To get admission to an MBA in HR program, you need to appear for one or more of the common entrance exams accepted by most business schools. These exams evaluate your aptitude, reasoning abilities, and overall academic knowledge, which are essential for succeeding in the program.

Below are some of the major entrance exams that you need to consider:

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Also Read: Transformational Leadership in Diversity and Inclusion

Now, let’s walk through the detailed admission process for an MBA in HR. Understanding the steps involved will help you navigate the journey with ease.

Admission Process for MBA in HR

The admission process for MBA in HR typically consists of multiple stages, starting from taking entrance exams to final admission confirmation. Each step in the process is critical to ensure you secure a seat in your desired institution.

The typical admission process follows these steps:

1. Appear for entrance exams: First, register and take the relevant entrance exams (e.g., CAT, XAT, GMAT). Your performance in these exams will determine whether you advance to the next stages.
2. Shortlisting based on cut-off scores: After the entrance exams, institutions release a cut-off score. Candidates who meet the minimum cut-off are shortlisted for further rounds of the admission process.
3. Group Discussion (GD) and Personal Interview (PI) rounds: Shortlisted candidates are called for Group Discussion (GD) and Personal Interview (PI) rounds. These rounds assess your communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities.
4. Statement of Purpose (SOP) and Letter of Recommendation (LOR) requirements: Many institutions ask for an SOP that outlines your motivations for pursuing an MBA in HR and how you plan to contribute to the field. Some schools also require LORs from your previous academic or professional mentors.
5. Final selection and admission confirmation: Based on your performance in the entrance exam, GD/PI rounds, and supporting documents, the institution will make a final selection. If selected, you will receive an admission offer, which you need to accept within a specified deadline.

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Also Read: Workforce Management – Process, Job Responsibilities, Benefits

Once you meet the eligibility criteria, explore the exciting career opportunities available after completing an MBA in HR.

Career Opportunities After MBA in HR

An MBA in HR opens up numerous career opportunities in human resource management, equipping you with skills like talent management, employee relations, and organizational development. Graduates are in high demand as organizations prioritize workforce efficiency and productivity.

Career paths in HR are diverse, including roles in recruitment, employee development, and compensation management. Salaries vary based on role, industry, and location. With increasing demand for skilled HR professionals, career growth is expected to be strong.

Below, you will find a list of some of the top job roles in HR and their average salary ranges.

Source: Glassdoor

Also Read: Top 10 Highest Paying HR Jobs in India [A Complete Report]

Now that you have an idea of the potential job roles and salaries, it is important to know which companies are hiring MBA in HR graduates. 

Leading Recruiters for MBA in HR Graduates

After completing your MBA in HR, you can expect to work for some of the top organizations in various sectors. Many large companies and multinational corporations recognize the importance of strategic HR management and are actively looking for skilled HR professionals to help them manage their workforce and align HR practices with business goals.

Here are some of the leading recruiters for MBA in HR graduates:

Also Read: How to Become an HR Professional: Key Steps, Skills, and Certifications

To help you seize these opportunities, upGrad offers specialized programs to accelerate your MBA in HR journey.

How Can upGrad Accelerate Your MBA in HR Journey?

upGrad is South Asia’s leading ed-tech platform, trusted by over 10 million learners globally. With more than 200 courses across diverse fields, we’re committed to helping you advance your career and explore new opportunities.

If you're looking to specialize in HR, leadership, or other areas, upGrad’s MBA programs are designed to enhance your skills and give you a competitive edge in the job market.

Explore some of our top courses:

• MBA from O.P. Jindal Global University
• MBA from O.P. Jindal Global University-Career Acceleration Program
• Post Graduate Diploma in Management (BIMTECH)
• Advanced General Management Program

Plus, to make sure you’re on the right track, we offer free one-on-one career counseling sessions with experts, or you can visit your nearest upGrad offline center to boost your job prospects and chart your career path!

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References:
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/human-resources-manager-salary-SRCH_KO0,23.htm    
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/talent-acquisition-specialist-salary-SRCH_KO0,29.htm    
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/learning-and-development-manager-salary-SRCH_KO0,32.htm    
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/compensation-and-benefits-manager-salary-SRCH_KO0,33.htm    
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/employee-relations-manager-salary-SRCH_KO0,26.htm    
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/hr-analyst-salary-SRCH_KO0,10.htm    
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/organizational-development-manager-salary-SRCH_KO0,34.htm    
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/learning-and-development-manager-salary-SRCH_KO0,32.htm    
https://www.shiksha.com/mba/colleges/mba-in-human-resources-colleges-india    
https://www.shiksha.com/mba/articles/top-10-mba-hr-colleges-in-india-blogId-6938