Human Resource Development

US News online bachelor's badgeThe Human Resource Development program, offered by distance (online) learning, prepares graduate and undergraduate students of all ages and backgrounds for a rewarding breadth of HRD careers.

U.S. News and World Report ranked the online baccalaureate degree programs of the University of Arkansas College of Education and Health Professions — including the Bachelor of Human Resource Development — No. 35 among 1,800 ranked programs for 2023.

Offered are degrees of Bachelor of Human Resource Development, Master of Human Resource Development and Doctor of Education in Human Resource Development, which are detailed on Degree Capsules page with requirements outlined on the Admission Process page.

Offering small class sizes, a diverse student body and low student-faculty ratios, HRD programs offer a tightly knit, high-energy learning in a student-centered environment. Students have numerous opportunities for hands-on technical, research and professional experience in a variety of community settings. HRD faculty members are available to students seeking advice on a variety of topics and serve as resources long after students graduate. The program is active on Facebook.

HRD Summit

Graphic for the 2024 HRD Summit

The second annual HRD Summit, “Connect ’24,” will be Saturday, March 9, 2024, at the Graduate Education Building on the Fayetteville campus. This event is being offered both in-person and live streamed.

The Human Resource Development Summit is a U of A student-led event offering cutting-edge content on HRD trends and activities. The program provides opportunities for students and alums to connect with each other and with other HRD professionals.

The conference is free, with meals provided to those attending in person. The presenters, schedule, further details and the registration link are on the summit's website.

Bachelor of Human Resource Development

The Bachelor of Human Resource Development prepares individuals to apply training, development, and career planning and counseling skills to improve individual productivity, employability, job satisfaction and organizational effectiveness.

Undergraduate Minor

The minor in Human Resource Development introduces the concepts of organizational development, career planning, and training and development.

Master of Human Resource Development

The Master of Human Resource Development comprises a 33-hour non-thesis online program, focusing on human resource development theory and best practices.

Doctor of Education in Human Resource Development

The Doctor of Education in Human Resource Development program is designed for students who seek leadership careers in education, business or industry settings.

The program is part of the Department of Counseling, Leadership and Research Methods.