
100%
Online Coursework

$390
Tuition Cost per Credit

1.5 years
Average Completion*
Turn People Strategy Into Business Strategy
People are an organization’s greatest asset — and managing that asset requires more than understanding policies and procedures. Today’s HR leaders help organizations attract and retain talent, develop high-performing teams, navigate change, and build workplaces where people and organizations can thrive.
The Strategic Human Resource Management master’s degree at Athens State University prepares you to take a strategic approach to managing people and organizations. Develop advanced knowledge in talent management, organizational development, employee relations, workforce strategy, and leadership while building the skills to align people practices with organizational goals.
The online MS in Strategic Human Resource Management program features four tracks:
- Diversity & Inclusion Management
- People Analytics
- Talent Development
- Integrated Human Resources
Program Details
The role of human resources has evolved. Today’s HR professionals are increasingly strategic partners who help shape organizational culture, workforce planning, employee engagement, and long-term business performance.
Athens State’s Strategic Human Resource Management program prepares you to move beyond transactional HR functions and become a strategic leader within your organization. You’ll develop the ability to connect workforce decisions to organizational objectives while navigating the complex challenges of today’s workplace.
Whether you’re an experienced HR professional ready to advance or a business professional looking to specialize in human resources, Athens State can help you take the next step.
Program Highlights
Strategic HR Leadership
Develop the knowledge and leadership skills to align human resource practices with organizational strategy.
Talent Management
Learn strategies for attracting, developing, engaging, and retaining the people organizations need to succeed.
Organizational Development
Explore how culture, leadership, change management, and employee development influence organizational performance.
Career-Focused Learning
Build practical skills you can apply to real-world workforce challenges and opportunities.
Your Career Advantage Starts Here
Effective HR leaders understand that workforce decisions have a direct impact on organizational performance. Through this program, you’ll develop a comprehensive understanding of strategic human resource management and its role in today’s organizations.
Explore your career pathways with the Master of Science in Strategic Human Resource Management, including anticipated salaries, annual job growth, and even active job listings through the Career Concourse portal.
$89k
Human Resources Manager Estimated Entry Salary
$134k
Human Resources Manager Estimated Median Salary
Estimated salary and employment information based on labor market data provided by Career Concourse and is intended for informational purposes only. Actual salaries and employment outcomes vary based on factors such as experience, location, industry, and employer and are not guaranteed upon degree completion.
Admissions & Aid
Athens State University is proud to offer the lowest tuition of any public, four-year university in Alabama, making it possible to earn an advanced degree while keeping your education affordable. Combined with flexible online learning, scholarships, and financial aid opportunities, our Master of Science in Strategic Human Resource Management delivers exceptional value and a strong return on your investment.
Why Choose this Program at Athens State?
Life doesn’t stop while you’re earning your degree. That’s why the Master of Science in Strategic Human Resource Management is offered entirely online, allowing you to complete coursework when it fits your schedule without sacrificing academic quality.


Built for Today’s Professionals
You shouldn’t have to choose between advancing your education and advancing your career. Athens State’s degree programs are designed with working professionals in mind. Flexible learning options allow you to pursue your master’s degree while continuing to meet your professional and personal commitments.

Invest in Your Future The Smart Way
Athens State University is committed to providing an affordable, high-quality education. As Alabama’s most affordable public, state university, we give you the opportunity to earn an advanced degree while making a smart investment in your future, without unnecessary debt. Plus, our learning partnerships make a degree from Athens Sate even more accessible.

Learn from Experienced Faculty
Our faculty combine academic excellence with real-world accounting and business experience, bringing current industry practices into every course. At Athens State, you’re not facing the journey alone—our dedicated, knowledgeable faculty and staff walk alongside you each step of the way, providing personalized guidance and support.
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*Average completion time varies by student and depends on prior credits
transferred to Athens State and the number of courses taken per semester.
Please consult with your Student Success Coach and faculty advisor for your personalized plan of study.