Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the deadlines to have all admissions documents submitted?

  Spring Semester start (January): All documents should be submitted by October 15.

  Fall Semester start (August): If you would like to be one of the first students considered for fall admissions, submit all required documents by the priority deadline - the first Monday in January. After this, there are no additional deadlines, but rolling admission until the cohort is full.

  *Application Fee: Ensure your application arrives with the required application fee. Applications cannot be processed without the application fee.

• What are my chances of getting a job after graduation?

  International students face unique barriers when looking for internships and full-time roles in the United States. It is important for international students to approach their job and internship searches with realistic expectations. Many companies in the U.S. are unable to hire international students for internships and full-time roles due to visa sponsorship complexities and legal requirements. Although some international students do find employment opportunities, they are limited for non-STEM fields (such as human resources and labor relations) with increased competition even for candidates with prior experience in the field.

  While the School of HRLR is committed to supporting international students in their career development, it is important to note that we cannot guarantee internship or full-time placement, especially in the U.S. Please be advised that international students will likely need to explore alternative recruitment pathways, such as seeking positions in their home countries.

• How many semesters are there in the program and how many courses can I take in one semester?

  Typically, a student will take three courses each semester for four semesters.

• Is the program SHRM Academically Aligned?
  

  The School of Human Resources & Labor Relations' Master's Degree Program is proud to be SHRM Academically Aligned.

  SHRM Academic Alignment Program participants are recognized as SHRM academic partners and as such, are seen as a top choice for students seeking a career in Human Resources. Students enrolled in a SHRM HR aligned program are provided with the opportunity to earn their SHRM-CP credential prior to graduating, providing them with a competitive advantage in the job market.

• How long does it take to complete the program?

  The majority of students complete their degree in two years; however, you may complete your program in 1.5 years by taking four courses each semester for three semesters.

• How do I find out if I have been admitted into the school?

  You will receive an email from Cheryl Mollitor with your admissions decision, followed by an official acceptance packet in the mail.

• What is the average GPA and how is it calculated?
  The average GPA for incoming students is 3.5. Your GPA is recalculated based on your last two years of your undergraduate degree or last 60 credits.
• What is the total tuition for the program?

  Please visit the following link to calculate the current tuition cost: https://ctlr.msu.edu/COStudentAccounts/TuitionCalculator.aspx

• What is the average starting salary for someone graduating from this program?

  The average starting salary for a domestic MSU MHRLR graduate is $86,000. International student salaries may vary greatly due to the limited placement opportunities.

• Is the GRE or GMAT test required?

  While encouraged, the GRE or GMAT test is currently optional. If you choose not to take the GRE or GMAT, you will need submit an Academic Statement instead. Learn more

  If you choose to take the GRE, the committee prefers scores near the 50^th percentile in verbal reasoning (151), and quantitative reasoning (152). You can take either the GRE or GMAT, the committee does not have a preference.

• Where do I send my application?

  The application is submitted online through the following link: https://grad.msu.edu/apply

• What is the average class size?

  For required first-year courses, the average class size is between 25–35 students. For second-year courses, the average class size is 12-15.

• Are summer internships required?

  Internships are not required, but are highly recommended.

• Do you offer financial aid?

  For financial aid information, please visit the following link: https://finaid.msu.edu/

• Do you offer study abroad opportunities?

  Yes. We currently offer study abroad options to South Korea and South Africa.

• What student groups can I join?
  There are several student organizations in which students may participate including the Graduate Student Association (GSA), the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), and the Labor and Employment Relations Association (LERA).