Human Resources
The Ph.D. Program in Human Resources Management (HRM) prepares students for success in research universities as faculty members specializing in human resources. The field of human resources is dedicated to a better understanding of how work organizations can perform more effectively by better management of their people. Many HRM scholars specialize or focus on more micro-level work, such as researching the impact of specific HR practices (e.g., selection or training techniques) on individual-level measures of satisfaction or performance.
Alternatively, macro-level HR (i.e., “strategic HRM”) scholars study the effects of systems of HR policies and practices on organizational-level outcomes.
KU faculty have expertise at both levels, as evidenced by publications in prestigious outlets such as Personnel Psychology, Journal of Applied Psychology, Academy of Management Journal, Organization Science, Industrial and Labor Relations Review, etc. PhD students work closely with faculty to gain research and teaching expertise in the various functions and activities carried out as part of HRM, including the relationship between these practices and organizational strategies, cultures, and performance. Major topics include staffing, performance management, compensation, training and development and labor relations.
Program Requirements
Required Coursework
Area of Concentration
Most students typically will select the specific area to which they are admitted (human resources) as their concentration. However, an aspirant, with the assistance of his or her faculty advisor and the area faculty, may propose an interdisciplinary area of concentration that is a combination of the traditional business disciplines of accounting, information systems, finance, marketing, decision sciences, organizational behavior, and strategic management. An aspirant may also propose an interdisciplinary area of concentration that includes emphases such as international business, law, and economics. The aspirant must take at least five advanced courses in the area of concentration. These courses may include those offered outside the School of Business.
Supporting Areas
Coursework in the area of concentration is supplemented and strengthened by study in one or two supporting areas. A supporting area is one that supplements and complements the area of concentration. The aspirant will satisfy the supporting area requirement by taking at least four advanced courses in the supporting areas (at least two courses in each of two supporting areas, or at least four courses in one supporting area). Courses recommended for preparation for the qualifiers may not be included in satisfying the supporting area requirement.
Research Methodology
For successful qualifier assessment, the student’s program of study should include adequate preparation in research methodology.
Degree Completion Timeline Years 1-2: Coursework*
Year 3: Comprehensive Exams
Year 4: Dissertation Proposal
Year 5: Dissertation Defense
*A minimum of 15 courses, plus 901 and BUS 902 are required for completion of the degree
Some students can complete the program in four years.
PlacementsOver the past several years, our PhD graduates have been placed at schools such as Ohio State University, George Washington University, and Towson University. For a complete listing, see the
Human Resources Management Alumni page.
