Drive corporate strategy and develop organizational systems

Set yourself apart by combining deep expertise in human resources with the knowledge required to be a strategic business partner. The Wisconsin MBA Program specialization in strategic human resource management develops business leaders who are ready to improve organizational effectiveness through the skillful management of human resources. Wisconsin is the #10-ranked human resources MBA in the nation (Princeton Review, 2020). 

Our core MBA curriculum in operations, finance, marketing, accounting, and strategy is paired with a specialized human resources curriculum, including coursework in compensation, employee relations, staffing, labor relations, negotiations, and change management. Incorporating applied learning opportunities, instruction from world-class faculty, and internships, the program offers an unparalleled experience that gives you a competitive career advantage.

AK Pavri

“The Wisconsin MBA Program specialization in strategic human resource management has given me the tools I need to speak the language with financial analysts, accountants, marketers, and CEOs. When I graduated, I was more respected, as well as more persuasive and effective.”

—AK Miller, MBA
Project Manager, DISH Network

Photo of Photo of Strategic Human Resource Management conference.

Learn through Hands-On Experience

Students in the strategic human resource management specialization gain valuable, real-world experience by working with executives at leading companies to solve their human resources challenges. Every year, students complete consulting projects, analyzing a wide range of management topics, such as compensation or staffing needs, and creating actionable strategic plans. Guest speakers from leading corporations and case studies that require the latest in predictive software are regular features of the Wisconsin MBA Program specialization in strategic human resource management, preparing you to make an impact immediately upon graduation.

Gain insights with hands-on learning

$115,000

Average base salary
(Class of 2019)

Choose Your Path to Success

Graduates of the Wisconsin MBA Program in strategic human resource management are highly sought after by major corporations such as Cisco, Johnson & Johnson, Whirlpool, and General Mills. Top employers value the strong foundational knowledge of business, leadership skills, and specialized expertise that Wisconsin MBA graduates bring to their organizations. Students in the strategic human resource management specialization experience a 92 percent full-time placement rate after graduation and an average starting salary of $115,000 per year. Our graduates are recruited for positions where they will impact their organizations by creating and managing leadership development programs, overseeing diversity programs, consulting with top management as HR business partners, and more.

Explore your career potential
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#10 in the U.S. for Best MBA for Human Resources

—Princeton Review, 2020

Join an Influential Network

Wisconsin MBA students regularly engage with a community of influential alumni and a network of industry executives holding diverse positions in human resources. The annual HR Summit, hosted by the Wisconsin MBA Program in strategic human resource management, gives you the opportunity to network with alumni and industry leaders, learn from mock interviews, and hear presentations on current industry challenges and trends. By learning from industry partners in the classroom and working alongside them during your capstone consulting project, you're sure to gain knowledge and a supportive network that will benefit you well beyond your time in the Wisconsin MBA Program.

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A Specialized Curriculum

The Wisconsin MBA Program in strategic human resource management offers a unique program that combines a master's-level education in human resource management with a well-rounded curriculum in business fundamentals. You will learn from award-winning faculty and industry experts who know the latest strategies for running a successful business. Gain an edge in your career by graduating with a broad understanding of business and specialized expertise in strategic human resource management.

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The Strategic Human Resource Management Experience

“I am grateful to be in a program whose alumni provide partial financial support for meaningful experiences such as this. Attending ROMBA was an amazing and invaluable experience, one I look forward to repeating next year.”

—Brandon Jones, MBA

Hear from our students

Strategic Human Resource Management Specialization Quick Guide

Learn more about the dedicated team members who provide you with one-on-one support. You can also access an informative overview of this career specialization to save, print, or share.

Download our quick guide