New Master's in Human Resource Development
by Alicia Nestle
In response to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ (2011) projection that human resource employment in the Finger Lakes region will grow 22% by 2018, Nazareth College’s School of Management is expanding its program offerings to include a master of science in human resource development (M.S. in HRD) in spring 2014.
The M.S. in HRD program is designed to bring theories and best practices into focus for those who serve, or wish to serve, in strategic HR roles as administrators of human resource development programs, training program directors, management development facilitators, organization development consultants, career development advisors, or leadership coaches.
This program will attract individuals from a variety of backgrounds, including HR generalists or HR specialists looking to expand their repertoire of skills, corporate trainers, human resource managers, independent consultants, career changers, and professionals with an academic background in psychology, sociology, or communications.
Associations that specialize in human resources offer classes leading to certification for the HRD professional, acknowledges Lorraine Henderson ’97G, assistant professor and director of the HRD and HRM programs. “However, an advanced degree is becoming increasingly more important for professionals in this area as they are required to demonstrate a wider range of expertise,” she explains. “This program is intended to enhance the skill set for those in the field, those attempting to enter the field, and those wishing to add certifications to their portfolio.”
The program is flexible and fast, explains Gerard Zappia ’89G, dean of the school of management. All classes are offered in the evening and throughout the calendar year. The M.S. in HRD consists of eleven courses that can be completed in two calendar years or longer to suit the student’s pace and timing. The program is also career focused—geared toward the professional who wishes to advance and/or change careers by helping organizations develop their human capital for a competitive advantage.
This program complements the current master of science in human resource management program that the School of Management offers. Both programs build on the strengths of the School of Management faculty and the values of the school. The classes are designed for busy professionals, providing adult learners with a collaborative, experientially based environment in which to network and develop new skills.
Alicia Nestle is the assistant director of multimedia and public relations in Nazareth's marketing department.
For more information, visit naz.edu/grad-hrd.