MA IN HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGEMENT ≫ 

This instructional program follows the SHRM model, which states that Knowledge + Behavioral Competencies = Success. The competencies include a broad range of skills needed in the applied setting, including leadership and navigation, business acumen, ethical practice, relationship management, consultation, critical evaluation, global and cultural effectiveness, and communication.

Program Objectives

The majority of participants enroll in this program to prepare to take the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP examinations. The highly interactive instructional methodology provides a rich but scheduled review of the content areas assessed in these tests. Other participants take the program to enhance their level of professionalism in field of human resource management.

SHRM Schedule

For the spring semester, we are providing the entire course using Zoom as the primary instructional format. You will need a computer with access to the internet to receive the Zoom link provided for each virtual session. The sessions will also be recorded and made available in case any participant misses a session.


The possibility of face-to-face instruction is still being considered as a complementary instructional method. Attendance would not be required since the entire course is offered using Zoom. In this instance, students would meet on WashU’s Danforth Campus for the designated sessions. (Bagels and cream cheese would be provided to students before the start of each session if the face-to-face option is employed).


Additional information will be provided as we near the start of the session. This will include class location, parking access, and other content you will need as the course gets underway if the face-to-face option is made available. Additional information will also be provided for those taking the course using the Zoom option.

DateClass DetailsInstructor
February 10-Introduction to the course
-Explanation of the SHRM Model for Effectiveness
-Explanation of the SHRM Competency Model
Ron Gribbins, Ph.D., SHRM-SCP, SPHR
February 24Books
-People (1)
-Workplace

Topics
-HR: Global Context
-Business and HR Strategy
-Corporate Social Responsibility
Ron Gribbins, Ph.D., SHRM-SCP, SPHR
March 2Books
-Organization
-Strategy
-People

Topics
-Structure of the HR Function
-Organizational Effectiveness & Development
-Learning & Development
Ron Gribbins, Ph.D., SHRM-SCP, SPHR
March 16
Books

-Organization
-Workplace
-People (1)

Topics
-Workforce Management
-Talent Acquisition & Retention
Denay Davis, M.B.A., SHRM-SCP, SPHR
March 23

Books

-Organization
-People

Topics
-HR & Technology
-Total Rewards
Mary Ruzicka, M.B.A., SHRM-SCP, SPHR, CCP
April 6Books
-Workplace

Topics
-Employee & Labor Relations
-US Employment Law and Regulations
Salvador Alatorre, J.D.
April 13
Books

-Workplace (Book 1)
-Organization

Topics
-Risk Management
-Employee Engagement
Larry Walworth, M.A., SHRM-CP, SPHR

SHRM Registration Process

All students should contact Ron Gribbins, Ph.D., the program director, to discuss the program before registering for the program. He can be reached at (314) 369-2731.

To register for the non-credit registration:

Please follow this link after contacting Ron Gribbins here. The cost of the program, including books, is $1,300.00. If you have questions about the non-credit registration system, please email us at caps@wustl.edu.

To register for the credit bearing course:

The SHRM Learning System is also offered as a credit bearing pass/fail course in the Human Resources Management program. The three units of credit may be applied as elective credit toward the Master of Arts in Human Resources Management. Students planning to apply the course toward a master’s degree should take the course for a letter grade.

To register for the 3-credit SHRM Learning System course, please visit acadinfo.wustl.edu/ucollege and search “U87 HRM 402” to add the course to your registration. The cost of the course is $2,385.00.

Please note: Course materials will be available as soon as you pay for the course. Arrangements will be made to get the materials into your hands at your convenience.