The MS in Human Capital Management (HCM) is a 30-credit SHRM-aligned program designed to address the growing demand for strategic human capital professionals with specialized expertise in leveraging technology and analytics effectively in order to lead and manage talent in today's global organizations. Taught by leading scholar-practitioners, this innovative course of study explores management and organizational behavior, data-driven metrics, managerial decision making, and business strategy and ethics. This unique mix of program attributes provides graduate students with a significant competitive advantage to succeed in the fast-changing world of business. 100% online, on-site, and hybrid degree options available.
MS in Human Capital
Management Online & On-Site
100% Online, On-site, and Hybrid Study Options
SPRING 2024 APPLICANTS: The HCM program starts in fall '24, which will be an accelerated 30-credit degree that can be completed 100% online, on-site, or hybrid, but you can apply now for our MS in Human Resource Management and Development degree and transfer seamlessly to HCM in the fall. Please contact the HCM Academic Department for more information: sps.hcm@nyu.edu
Degree Advantage
- 30-credit accelerated program
- 100% online course, on-site, or hybrid degree options available
- Flexible full- or part-time study options
- Can be completed in one year (three semesters) of full-time study or two years (5-6 semesters) of part-time study.
- Required immersion period of five days that provides an introduction to executive coaching and organizational consulting practices. In-person and online immersion options available
- Aligned and accredited to SHRM standards, the program is recognized by SHRM to offer Professional Development Credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities.
- Gain critical knowledge to be a strategic human capital professional such as leveraging technology and data effectively, conducting organizational assessments, developing high-performing teams, and measuring the impact of talent development initiatives
- Degree Core curriculum that builds foundational skills in human capital management
- Electives that enable specialization in in-demand human capital management competencies like organizational effectiveness, the future of work, employee experience, and diversity, equity & inclusion (DEI)
- Capstone in which students may complete projects with sponsoring organizations; challenge themselves with simulations of real-world situations, or complete a research thesis
Curriculum and Degree Requirements
You can find the full curriculum details for this program on this page of the University Bulletin. All other content, including this web page is for informational purposes only.
Discover NYU SPS: Graduate Admissions Information Sessions
Join an online session to learn more about our graduate degree programs, including the MS in Human Capital Management. Our admissions team will give you insights into the NYU SPS experience, share details about the application process, and offer tips for creating a successful application. Current students will also share their personal experiences, providing a firsthand perspective on life as an SPS student.
Who Should Consider Earning the MS in Human Capital Management
The MS in Human Capital Management is designed for early career professionals who wish to understand and develop strategic human capital business competencies and be leaders in the industry. Additionally, this program is beneficial for mid-career and senior HR professionals who wish to explore topics in people analytics, DEI, and future trends in human capital management.
Career and Job Opportunities
Our students and alumni benefit from a network of industry leaders and now work with some of the top companies and their human resources departments including:
- Amazon
- Accenture
- EY
- United Nations
GLOBAL FIELD INTENSIVES
The Human Capital Management (HCM) department provides students with unique opportunities to pursue their academic and professional interests beyond New York City through Global Field Intensives (GFI). These immersive courses of study allow students to study and experience first-hand how aspects of human capital management are applied in varying global cities and countries. Site visits at each destination translate ideas into action. Students learn invaluable skills and network with speakers and organizations to advance their academic and professional contacts.
FACULTY: EXPERTS IN THEIR FIELDS
Michael Valentine
Academic Director, Clinical Assistant Professor, Human Capital Programs
Mike Valentine, a Managing Partner at Truedge Consulting and a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Human Capital Program at NYU School of Professional Studies, has an extensive career as a management consultant, executive coach, and human resource leader.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is Human Capital Management?
Human Capital Management (HCM) refers to initiatives, strategies, and activities designed to optimize the capabilities and overall potential of a workforce. The program aims to support the alignment between an organization's strategic aspirations and its ability to meet those strategic objectives.
Why is HCM important?
Human Capital Management is vital for organizations as it aligns HR practices with business goals. It ensures effective talent acquisition, employee development, and performance management. HCM enables data-driven decision-making and strategic workforce planning, and it fosters a positive workplace culture for enhanced engagement and satisfaction. Additionally, it contributes to compliance, cost management, succession planning, and global talent management, making it a cornerstone for organizational success, adaptability, and sustainability.
Should I get a master's in human capital management?
In deciding whether or not to pursue a master's in this field, consider career outcomes, market demand, and program fit. Align your decision with your long-term career goals, ensuring that a master's in HCM will contribute to your professional growth and fulfillment.
What does SHRM-Aligned curriculum mean for me?
The courses that make up the MS degree incorporate the elements of the Society of Human Resource Management competency model. This alignment ensures students will be exposed to key skills necessary for future success in the field of HRM practice.
What courses are available through this 30-credit degree program?
Courses include all aspects of HR practice like organizational effectiveness, executive coaching, HR analytics, performance management, and managing diversity and inclusion. They cover the technology of HR, employee behavior, organizational change, data analytics, and training and development. All courses provide a global perspective for practice anywhere in the world.
Why are there no concentrations in this graduate program?
This allows students the flexibility to tailor the program to meet student needs and areas of interest.
How long would it take to complete this graduate program?
For students who pursue full-time study, the program takes one academic year, completing a Fall, Spring, and Summer semester. Students who pursue part-time study can complete this program within two academic years.
What time do you offer classes?
Our courses are offered in the evenings (Mondays through Thursdays) to accommodate working professionals.
Can I take this program online?
Students have the flexibility to take the HCM program in-person on campus, online, or a mixture of both modalities.
Why pursue a career in human capital management?
Pursuing a career in this field allows practitioners to contribute to organizational culture and the success of a company in many ways. It is the essential link between employee contribution and the organization's strategic goals, values, and mission. Because HCM touches so many aspects of the workplace, practitioners in this field can work in a variety of roles that fit their strengths and interests.
What types of jobs are available after earning this degree?
Graduates may pursue roles as an HR business partner supporting an organizational unit, as a training and development or recruiting specialist focused on development or talent acquisition. Other roles might include HR technology, or HR generalist supporting many areas of the function. Whatever your position, you will likely be involved in projects that have organization-wide impact and collaborate with colleagues from other disciplines to achieve desired results.
What is a human capital manager?
A Human Capital Manager oversees an organization's human resources, managing talent acquisition, professional development, and leadership development for employees. They align HR strategies with organizational goals, engage in workforce planning, change management, and create a positive work environment for enhanced productivity and employee success.
How do you become a human capital manager?
The path to becoming a human capital manager can vary, but generally, you begin with obtaining a relevant education. A bachelor's degree can help you develop the skills you'd need for an entry-level HR role. From there, you can gain experience in the workplace or through internships. Completing a master's program will help you gain the leadership, knowledge, and strategic thinking to advance your career and make you a highly competitive applicant for management roles.
What is the average salary of HCM?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the median salary for those with careers as human capital managers was $130,000 in 2022.