Widener University

What you'll study

The programme combines core human resource management theory with applied practice. Typical modules cover organisational behaviour, strategic human resource management, employment law and ethics, compensation and benefits, talent acquisition and selection, training and development, diversity and inclusion, labour and employee relations, and HR analytics. Students also complete a capstone project or practicum that applies learning to a real organisational problem; options often include internships, employer‑sponsored projects or an applied research paper.

• Organisational Behaviour and Leadership – understanding individual and group dynamics and how leaders influence performance.
• Employment Law and Ethics – practical legal frameworks and ethical decision making relevant to HR practice.
• Compensation, Benefits and Total Rewards – design and administration of pay structures and benefits programmes.
• Talent Acquisition and Workforce Planning – recruitment strategy, selection methods and workforce forecasting.
• Learning, Training and Development – instructional design, needs analysis and evaluation of development initiatives.
• HR Analytics and Technology – use of people data to drive decisions and measure HR impact.
• Employee and Labour Relations – collective bargaining, grievance handling and workplace conflict resolution.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree. Admissions take account of academic transcripts, a current résumé or CV, and a personal statement outlining career goals and suitability for graduate study in human resources. Professional work experience in HR or a related field is an advantage but not always required for admission; some applicants with limited experience may be admitted to the programme on a provisional basis. International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements. Admissions may also consider references and, where relevant, additional materials such as a writing sample or portfolio.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to a wide range of HR roles across private, public and non‑profit sectors. Typical job titles include HR generalist, HR business partner, talent acquisition specialist, compensation and benefits analyst, learning and development manager, and employee relations advisor. The programme also prepares students for consultancy work or progression into senior HR leadership roles. Many students pursue professional certification to complement the degree, which can assist career progression and professional recognition.

Why study at Widener University

Widener offers a practitioner‑focused HR programme delivered by faculty with academic and industry experience, emphasising applied learning and close faculty‑student engagement. The university provides flexible delivery options to accommodate working professionals, including evening and hybrid formats where available, and access to experiential opportunities such as internships and employer projects through its career services. Located within easy reach of a major metropolitan labour market, Widener facilitates connections with regional employers and HR professionals to support networking and career development.