MBA in HR: Salary, Scope, Fees, Benefits, Career & More

An MBA degree has turned out to be the stepping stone for building a successful career. Apart from guaranteeing high salaries, an MBA education also equips one with the knowledge to start enterprises while establishing a formidable place in the industry. One of the sectors in which an MBA degree carries high value is Human Resources.

What is an MBA in HR?

An MBA in HR deals with information and knowledge about the management of an organisation’s workforce. This program teaches students the importance and method to understand an organization’s vision, clients, working system and culture. This program also teaches how an HR professional can work towards ensuring the welfare of a company’s employees. An HR manager has a crucial role to play in any establishment.

In this blog, we will explore various facets of an MBA degree in HR scope, fees, benefits, job placements, entrance exam, subject, project topics, syllabus, career, eligibility, salary prospects and more. An MBA degree in HR also holds high value in the job market. To know more about MBA in HR, please read further.

Why an MBA in HR?

When you hear about an MBA in Human Resources, think about the people side of a company. It’s all about finding the right professional, getting them on board, and ensuring everything runs smoothly. Jobs like HR managers, compensation managers, and consultants fall under this category, and we’ll dive into more cool roles later.

Picking an MBA in Human Resources is like unlocking a toolbox for success in this field. You’ll pick up skills and know-how in employment law, dealing with work relationships, and understanding how organizations tick. Plus, you’ll get hands-on practice in important areas like hiring, training, and making sure everyone keeps growing. Stick around to discover more about the exciting world of HR!

Benefits of an MBA in HR

An MBA in Human Resources opens the door to a wealth of advantages tailored for professionals like yourself. Delve into these six exceptional benefits:

• Job stability
• Expand your network
• Learn managerial skills
• Diverse job opportunities
• Understand legal and compliance issues
• Create effective management programs

MBA in HR: Course Details

An MBA in HR helps in achieving specialization in this field. Most institutes provide theoretical and practical knowledge in the same. The teaching is imparted through projects and on-the-job training.

Below are some essential pointers for the course:

• MBA HR Course Level – This course is a Master’s degree.
• MBA HR Course Duration – The duration is usually 2 years.
• MBA HR Course Examination Type – Most institutions hold semester-wise exams for the course.
• MBA HR Course Eligibility – A bachelor’s degree in any field makes one eligible for the course. Graduation final year students can also apply.
• MBA HR Course Admission Process – B-schools conduct entrance exams, group discussions and personal interviews to select candidates for the programme.
• MBA HR Course Major Entrance Exams – The top MBA entrance exams include CAT, XAT, MAT and CMAT.
• MBA HR Course Fee – The average course fee ranges between Rs 15-20 lakh
• MBA HR Course Average Salary – An MBA in HR can fetch Rs 2-10 lakh.
• Top Hiring Companies for MBA HR Course Graduates – Some of the prominent companies recruiting MBA HR candidates include Reliance, Wipro, KPMG and Larsen & Toubro.

MBA HR Course Eligibility Criteria

The basic eligibility criteria for securing admission to an MBA in HR programme is a Bachelor’s degree. The candidate can be a graduate in any discipline. Even those in the final year of graduation can apply.

Some of the other criteria are:

• 50% aggregate score or equivalent CGPA score from a recognized university. This may differ for some top B-schools.
• Students from SC/ST/PWD backgrounds can opt for 5% relaxation
• Certain institutions have set an age bar of 35 years as of August 1, 2021

 

MBA HR: Admission Process

Candidates are selected based on their scores in the entrance exam. Once shortlisted the institutions conduct Group Discussion Rounds and Person Interviews to shortlist further.

Most colleges follow similar processes for admission.

The basic steps for admission are as follows:

1. Apply for an entrance test
2. Sit for the exam
3. Check if your name appears in the shortlist
4. If selected, appear for Group Discussion, Written Ability Test and Personal Interview. These tests evaluate the candidate’s verbal and oral communication skills.

MBA HR Salary: How Much Salary for MBA HR’s in India?

The current salary landscape in India for MBA HR professionals is as follows:

• Freshers: Begin with an average salary ranging from Rs 1.7 lakh to Rs 4 lakh per annum.
• 2-5 years of experience: As you gain experience, watch your earnings grow to an impressive range of Rs 3.5 lakh to Rs 7 lakh per annum.
• More than 5 years: With over 5 years under your belt, expect your annual salary to soar between Rs 8.00 lakh to Rs 24 lakh.

MBA HR: Entrance Exam

Those aspiring to secure admission to an MBA program in HR need to clear an entrance exam. While the eligibility criteria are generally determined by the respective colleges, the well-known entrance exams include CAT, XAT, CMAT, MAT and GMAC’s NMAT

MBA HR: Major Research Project Topics

MBA in HR programs usually involve the drafting of projects as a step to improve the learning process. It helps in gaining practical knowledge as the student can apply the concepts and theories taught during the course.

Some of the common project ideas pursued by MBA HR students are:

1. Analysis of the satisfaction level of employees
2. Employee welfare schemes
3. Performance appraisal and bonus payment structure
4. Employee attrition
5. Employee engagement & motivation
6. Evaluation of training programs
7. HR policies on grievance redress 

Top 5 Reasons to Choose MBA in HR

A managerial position, a well-paying job and a place of respect in the industry are what we all aspire for. Final-year graduates scouting for opportunities in their respective fields often zero in on MBA programs to secure desired placements. An MBA in HR is one of the lucrative options. Let us explore the reasons for this trend.

1. Power of specializations: 

In-depth knowledge of a subject is bound to give one the edge while scouting for job opportunities. An MBA in HR can equip students with skills in team development, motivation, conflict resolution and defining job responsibilities.

2. Management skills: 

MBA programs focus on building skills and adapting to changes in business environments. Some of these key skills are – leadership and people management skills, developing and selling services, building networks, keeping tabs on the company’s finances, understanding and interpreting industry data, hiring top talent and creating hierarchies.

3. Building access to business networks: 

MBA programs are great opportunities to build connections with professionals, industry leaders and company heads. This is especially crucial in an industry like HR.

4. High salaries: 

One of the major benefits of an MBA degree is securing well-paying positions. An MBA graduate earns almost twice that of an employee with a regular Master’s. This degree also guarantees job stability as HR professionals are an indispensable resource in all companies.

5. Leadership skills: 

An HR professional needs to have strong people skills. The MBA course helps students to learn these techniques that come in handy while managing employees on the job.

Skills Required to Pursue MBA in HR

Students aspiring to join MBA programs need to have a certain set of skills that are required to excel in this field of specialization. While communication and people management feature on top for those pursuing HR, some other key functions can help these students stand apart from their peers. Industry experts say the ability to observe and study the job market can help an aspirant benefit greatly from the MBA program.

Let us now look at some of the other skills:

1. Communication skills:

Aspiring HR professionals must possess excellent communication skills and the quality to easily convince others. This helps a great deal while handling crises and during salary negotiations.

2. Leadership Skills:

If you are a born leader, then the HR market is your calling. You must have the ability to take charge in times of conflict and lead from the front when the organisation needs you the most.

3. Supervisory Skills:

The HR department is responsible for managing the entire workforce of a company. This means while it is essential to guide the employees to follow company rules and established work practices you also need to manage your team well to get these regulations implemented and monitored.

4. Planning Abilities:

An HR professional needs to plan and execute training programs, employee initiatives and annual activities. This needs a great deal of coordination, drafting of plans and an eye for detail.

5. Soft Skills: 

This perhaps makes an HR professional stand apart from other employees. A good HR person should be able to bond well with the employees, irrespective of their positions, and make them feel content about the company and their work profile.

Related Blog: What Are the Skills Required for an HR Executive?

MBA HR: Syllabus & Subjects

The MBA in HR program is usually divided into four semesters. The course covers a wide array of management topics like management process and organization theory, accounting and finance, research methodology and human capital management, and HR audit.

MBA HR Syllabus 1st Year:

MBA HR Subjects in 1st Semester	MBA HR Subjects in 2nd Semester
Principles of Management and Organisational Behaviour	Cost and Management Accounting
Human Resource Management	Marketing Management
Quantitative Techniques in Management	Human Resource Development and Planning
Managerial Economics	Methodology of Training and Planning
IT for Managers	Production and Operations Management
Corporate Communication	Business Environment and Ethics
Financial Accounting	Organisation Effectiveness and Change

 

MBA HR Syllabus 2nd Year:

MBA HR Subjects in 3rd Semester	MBA HR Subjects in the 4th Semester
Strategic Management	Strategic Analysis
Business Ethics and Corporate Social Responsibility	International Business Environment
Legal Environment of Business	Talent Management
Performance Management	Industrial Relations and Labour Legislations
Training and Development	Human Capital Management and HR Audit
Organizational Change and Development	Entrepreneurship Development
Compensation Management	Human Resource Information System

 

Career Options and Jobs Opportunity After MBA in HR

An MBA in HR degree can help you bag several executive positions. While MNCs hire multiple HR managers, an MBA degree can help an HR professional to rise in the ranks smoothly.

The HR positions at the managerial level are:

• HR Manager – Talent acquisition
• HR Manager – Training
• HR Manager – Compliance
• Professor of HR courses

The roles offered in executive positions include Senior Manager, Assistant Vice President, Vice President and Director.

1. Private Jobs for MBA HR

Embarking on a career in the private sector with an MBA in HR opens doors to exciting possibilities. Here are some coveted private job roles, along with their indicative salaries in India:

1. Human Resources Manager:

Salary: ₹6L – ₹14L/yr. lakh per annum

2. Talent Acquisition Specialist:

Salary: ₹ 2.0 Lakhs to 10.0 Lakhs

3. Employee Relations Consultant:

Salary: ₹ 7 Lakhs to 11 Lakhs per annum

4. Organizational Development Analyst:

Salary: ₹ 2.4 Lakhs to 9.4 Lakhs per annum

5. Compensation and Benefits Manager: 

Salary: ₹ 9.0 Lakhs to 42.0 Lakhs per annum

Explore these dynamic private job opportunities, where your MBA in HR can pave the way for a rewarding and financially fulfilling career.

2. Government Jobs for MBA HR

For those inclined towards the public sector, an MBA in HR can lead to fulfilling opportunities within government organizations. Here are some sought-after government job roles, along with their average salaries in India:

1. Human Resources Officer:

Salary: ₹ 1.8 Lakhs to 10 Lakhs per annum

2. Labor Welfare Officer:

Salary: ₹ 1.2 Lakhs to 6.1 Lakhs

3. Public Relations Manager:

Salary: ₹ 4 Lakhs to 10 Lakhs per annum

4. Administrative Officer:

Salary:  ₹ 1.6 Lakhs to 9.0 Lakhs per annum

5. Training and Development Specialist:

Salary: ₹ 3.0 Lakhs to 14.0 Lakhs

Explore the realm of government jobs, where your MBA in HR can contribute to the public sector’s workforce management and organizational development.

3. MBA HR Fresher Jobs

An MBA in HR opens doors to a myriad of opportunities. Whether you’re inclined towards the private sector or aspire to contribute to the public sector, there are promising avenues for fresher’s in both realms.

Private Jobs for MBA Fresher’s

1. Human Resources Associate:

Salary: ₹ 4 lakhs to 6 lakhs per annum

2. Recruitment Coordinator:

Salary: ₹ 3.5 lakh to 5.5 lakh per annum

3. HR Trainee:

Salary: ₹ 3 lakhs to 4.5 lakh per annum

4. Talent Acquisition Analyst:

Salary: ₹ 4.5 lakh to 6.5 lakh per annum

5. Employee Engagement Coordinator:

Salary: ₹ 3.8 lakh to 5 lakhs per annum

 

Government Jobs for MBA Fresher’s

1. Assistant Human Resources Officer:

Salary: ₹ 3.5 lakh to 5 lakhs per annum

2. Junior Administrative Officer:

Salary: ₹ 3 lakhs to 4.5 lakh per annum

3. Labor Welfare Trainee:

Salary: ₹ 3.2 lakh to 4.8 lakh per annum

4. Public Relations Assistant:

Salary: ₹ 3.7 lakh to 5.2 lakh per annum

5. Training and Development Coordinator:

Salary: ₹ 3.5 lakh to 4.9 lakh per annum

Explore these entry-level opportunities tailored for MBA HR freshers, setting the stage for a promising and rewarding career.

Scope of MBA in HR

Getting an MBA in HR opens up possibilities in the working world. Companies care a lot about keeping their employees happy and well-managed because it helps them grow. So, they’re always looking for skilled HR professionals, and having an MBA in HR makes you stand out.

Now let’s look into the future of work for HR professionals in 2024. Companies are using tools with AI to work better and faster. As an HR professional, you’ll use data and smart tech to understand how employees work, spot areas where they can learn more, and make hiring decisions. This tech-savvy approach helps companies use their resources better and makes work a better experience for everyone. 

Scope of MBA HR in the Government Sector

While the private sector has a high demand for MBA HR professionals, the government sector is equally ahead in this aspect. Among the government sectors looking for HR executives are railways, IT, sports, aviation and healthcare.

The average salary of an HR manager in the government sector is around Rs 4 lakh per annum and it can rise to Rs 10 lakh in the case of a Senior Manager.

Top 5 Recruiters for MBA in HR Graduates in India

MBA in HR graduates are some of the most sought-after candidates in the job market. Several MNCs hire during placement rounds in B-schools. There are openings for HR executive jobs in small and mid-sized companies too.

Let us look at some of the Indian companies that are among the top recruiters for HR jobs.

• Reliance
• TCS
• Wipro
• Infosys
• L&T

Top Recruiting Industries

Tech majors and software giants come on top among the recruiters of MBA HR professionals. These companies have large workforces and hence need a big HR team to manage the workforce. Several B schools have tie-ups with these conglomerates for placement purposes.

The sectors that offer job placements to MBA HR graduates are:

• Banking
• Personal Finance
• Automation
• Software
• Information Technology

What Can I Do After MBA HR?

After completing an MBA in Human Resources, there are several options for further professional development and specialization. 

Common Courses After MBA HR:

After completing an MBA in Human Resources, there’s a plethora of courses that can significantly boost your employability. If you’re eager to enhance your skills further, consider enrolling in a Diploma or Certification program. These additional courses refine your abilities and increase your chances of securing a job. Let’s explore some of the standout courses for HR professionals post-MBA.

1. Professional HR certifications:

Pursuing certifications such as SHRM-CP (Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional) or HRCI’s PHR (Professional in Human Resources) can enhance your credibility and expertise in the field.

2. Advanced HR analytics and data management: 

With the increasing importance of data-driven decision-making in HR, courses in HR analytics, data management, and HR technology can be beneficial.

3. Organizational development and change management: 

Specializing in organizational development and change management can provide valuable skills for leading and managing organizational change initiatives.

4. Talent management and succession planning:

Courses focusing on talent management, succession planning, and leadership development can help in developing strategies for attracting, retaining, and developing talent within organizations.

5. Employment law and compliance: 

Deepening your understanding of employment law, compliance, and labor relations can be valuable for navigating legal and regulatory complexities in HR.

6. Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI): 

Given the increasing focus on DEI in the workplace, courses in this area can help in developing inclusive workplace strategies and fostering diverse and equitable organizational cultures.

These are just a few examples, and the specific courses or professional studies to pursue will depend on your career goals, interests, and the evolving needs of the HR industry. It’s also worth considering gaining practical experience and exposure to different facets of HR through relevant work opportunities.

Diploma Courses After MBA in HR

Diploma courses are particularly popular among graduates and postgraduates, offering numerous merits and benefits. Here are some notable diploma courses for HR professionals post-MBA:

1. Diploma in Human Resource Management
2. Post Graduate Diploma in Human Resource Management
3. Executive Diploma in Human Resource Management
4. Post Graduate Diploma in Labour Law & Administrative Law
5. Post Graduate Diploma in Public Relations Management

Certification Courses After MBA in HR

Certification courses play a crucial role in enhancing skills and knowledge. MBA HR graduates can benefit from these courses to further specialize in their field. Check out some noteworthy certification courses available after an MBA in Human Resources:

1. Associate Professional in Talent Development
2. SAP HR Certification
3. Society for Human Resource Management Certification
4. Certified Talent Management Practitioner Program
5. Certified Professional in Learning and Performance
6. Senior Talent Management Practitioner

PhD Courses After MBA in HR

For those seeking in-depth knowledge and aiming for leadership roles, pursuing a PhD after an MBA in HR is a compelling option. A PhD in Human Resource Management typically takes 3-5 years to complete and involves thorough research. It equips individuals with an advanced understanding of the specialization, opening doors to enhanced employment opportunities.

PhD programs after an MBA in HR focus on developing organizational skills, training and development expertise, decision-making abilities, and effective communication skills. Graduates can explore career advancement opportunities in IT, marketing, business, academia, and various sectors in both the private and public domains.

Job Oriented Courses After MBA HR:

Elevate your career prospects after an MBA in HR by considering specialized certifications. These job-oriented courses add significant value to your skill set. Here are some noteworthy certifications:

1. Professional in Human Resources (PHR):

Offered by the HR Certification Institute (HRCI), the PHR certification validates your expertise in HR operations, employee relations, and legal compliance.

2. Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR):

Also provided by HRCI, the SPHR certification is designed for seasoned HR professionals, showcasing advanced knowledge in strategic HR management.

3. Certified Employee Benefit Specialist (CEBS):

Administered by the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans (IFEBP), the CEBS certification focuses on employee benefits and compensation strategies.

4. Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR):

Another HRCI offering, the GPHR certification is ideal for HR professionals working in an international context, emphasizing global HR strategy and policies.

5. Certified Compensation Professional (CCP):

Offered by WorldatWork, the CCP certification is tailored for those specializing in compensation management, ensuring proficiency in designing competitive compensation structures.

6. Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP):

Administered by the Association for Talent Development (ATD), the CPLP certification is perfect for HR professionals focusing on learning and development, showcasing expertise in training and performance improvement.

Consider pursuing these certifications to stand out in the competitive HR landscape and unlock diverse job opportunities aligned with your career goals.

MBA Finance vs MBA HR

Choosing between an MBA in Finance and an MBA in Human Resources (HR) can significantly impact your career trajectory. Let’s break down the key aspects of each specialization to help you make an informed decision.

 

Aspect	MBA in Finance	MBA in Human Resources (HR)
Focus Area	Financial Management and Analysis	Human Capital Management
Core Courses	Financial Accounting	Organizational Behavior
Elective Courses	Investment Management	Talent Acquisition
Career Paths	Investment Banking, Finance	HR Management, Recruitment
Skills Developed	Financial Analysis, Risk Management	Employee Relations, Leadership
Industry Opportunities	Banking, Corporate Finance	IT, Healthcare, Manufacturing
Regulatory Environment	Compliance, Financial Regulations	Employment Law, Labor Relations
Salary Potential	High earning potential	Competitive, growth opportunities
Job Stability	Market-sensitive, fluctuations	Steady demand, consistent roles
Professional Certifications	CFA, FRM, CFP	PHR, SPHR, GPHR

 

MBA Interview Questions and Answers for Fresher’s in HR

The personal interview round is considered to be the most important level in securing a job. Aspiring HR professionals need to be prepared for some basic questions that feature in most interview rounds. Students should try to incorporate some interesting elements in the answers to be able to stand out.

Below are a few questions and answers that you can be prepared for.

1. What inspired you to take up HR?

The HR industry is a lot about people interactions and communication. HR professionals also play a key role in ensuring the growth of theshoalspharmacy.com companies. I want to be part of this department that holds such a crucial position for both the management and the employees. (You can state personal anecdotes.)

2. What do you think are the qualities an HR professional needs to possess?

An HR person should be able to remain calm in crises and must be approachable. The HR executive should also possess the knowledge of company policies and HR practices to be able to resolve situations efficiently. (Please note this question is a way to know your attributes.)

3. Which area in HR do you think needs improvement?

The answer will be a test of your understanding of the industry. You can talk about attrition and employee retention practices.

4. What is your expected salary?

You can ask for the amount they have in mind and can also provide a range that is not too wide. It is always advisable not to give the interviewer a fixed amount.

5. What are the biggest challenges of working in the HR industry?

You should not be too negative or critical about the industry. It is better to stick to some generic points that are already being resolved by most companies in that industry.

MBA in HR: Related FAQS

Q1: Is mathematics required for doing an MBA in HR?

An understanding of basic mathematics is required for pursuing an MBA in HR because the syllabus contains accounts and managerial economics. Hence, aspiring students should be well-versed in basic concepts like calculating square roots, percentages and averages.

Q2: Which is best in MBA – Finance or HR?

MBA in Finance or HR are equally lucrative options. Both these streams open up enough job opportunities. They are also among the well-paying job options.

Q3: Why choose HR as a specialization in MBA?

The HR department is indispensable for all sectors and companies because workforce management is a must for all organizations. Besides, attracting and retaining talent is crucial and an efficient HR team is essential to do that.

Q4: How to do PhD after an MBA in HR?

A PhD is a commonly chosen path after completing an MBA in HR. This is particularly in the case of people who want to venture into academics.

Q5: Is an MBA in HR a good option?

An MBA degree in HR adds value to your resume and the candidate has better chances of being hired by top companies. It also equips you with the specialized skills required for carrying out senior HR functions.

Q6: Is MBA in HR easy?

The MBA program in HR could be easy or difficult depending on the interest you have in the course. The course involves both academic and practical learning and this makes the program quite interesting.

Q7: Who should do an MBA in HR?

Anyone who has an interest in managing and coordinating with people and talents is a good fit for this program. You also need the ability to stay calm and lead from the front in crises.

Summary

An enriching academic program can go a long way in shaping a great career. This is what an MBA in HR can do for an aspiring HR professional. This is one of the best career paths to be chosen after graduation. Apart from ensuring high-paying positions in leading companies, this course also guarantees you immense job satisfaction.

Check Out MBA HR Programs at ASMs IBMR

The MBA in HR program offered by ASM’s Institute of Business Management & Research is a holistic course that promises to raise the bar for aspiring HR professionals. Apart from being a well-defined course interspersed with practical training, sessions conducted by industry and academics help students to pick up refined skills.