COURSE CURRICULUM

The Human Resource Management program at Northwest Missouri State University provides a comprehensive foundation in business, management, and human resources, preparing students for leadership roles in organizations. In the first year, students build essential skills in writing, communication, mathematics, computers, psychology, economics, accounting, and fine arts, establishing a strong academic base. The second year emphasizes business fundamentals, including principles of management, micro- and macroeconomics, accounting, statistics, and human resource management, alongside science and technology courses. These courses develop both analytical and organizational skills critical to managing people effectively. In the third year, students focus on core HR topics such as organizational behavior, employee rewards and benefits, labor relations, operations management, business law, and advanced HR concepts, while also enhancing business communication and professional ethics. This year also includes an internship in human resource management, providing practical experience and exposure to real-world HR practices. In the fourth year, students explore advanced HR topics including staffing, organizational training and development, international human resources, and strategic decision-making, as well as international business, government, and elective courses. The curriculum ensures that students gain knowledge of employee development, recruitment, selection, compensation, benefits, and leadership, while developing teamwork, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. By integrating foundational business knowledge with specialized HR coursework, the program prepares graduates to manage all aspects of the employee life cycle, from hiring and onboarding to training, performance management, and labor relations. Students also learn to apply strategic planning and decision-making to support organizational goals. With a balance of theory, practical experience, and professional skill development, the Human Resource Management program equips students to enter the workforce as competent, confident, and versatile HR professionals ready to contribute to diverse organizations and navigate a rapidly changing business environment.