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The degree will be available on campus or through a completely online option beginning in May.

IC’s program will prepare students for 21st-century human resource careers with coursework in employee selection and retention, training and development, benefits, legal compliance, workplace diversity, and best practices for creating a positive and productive work environment.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for human resources managers was $113,300 in May 2018, and these jobs are expected to grow at a higher than average rate over the next 10 years. 

Allison Burrus, instructor of business, said that all students in the program will be well prepared to succeed in the growing field of human resources and management. Burrus, who recently finished her Ph.D. in industrial and organizational psychology, helped to develop the coursework for the new program.  

“I design and teach courses based on principles of psychology and human behavior,” she said. “I believe this leads to a better understanding of why certain human resources management policies are necessary for the health and success of an organization.” 

Because the program was developed to align closely with the Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM), graduates will be permitted to take the SHRM certification exam immediately upon graduation, rather than waiting a year as with some programs. SHRM is the world’s largest professional organization for human resources professionals, and the exam is a globally recognized certification throughout the profession.  

Burrus added that students in the program will learn how human resources functions and the "why" behind each principle so they are better prepared to make decisions related to human resources when they enter the workforce. Burrus looks forward to collaborating with students beyond the classroom on research related to human resources topics. 

For more information on earning your degree on campus, visit www.ic.edu/human-resources-mgmt; visit to learn about IC’s fully online degree in human resources management.