Webster University's MA in HRD versus Clemson University's MHRD

Discussion in 'General Distance Learning Discussions' started by abnrgr275, Mar 8, 2012.

Loading...
  1. abnrgr275

    abnrgr275 Member

    I’ve got some questions for the members of Degree Info and would appreciate any input you may have. I currently am enrolled in Webster University’s MA in Human Resources Development program and am pursuing a sequential master’s degree; since I already have a master’s from another school I only have to complete the 8 core courses for Webster’s HRDV program in order to graduate. I am finishing up the research methods course this week and only have 3 courses to go until I complete the program. So far I don’t have many complaints about the school or the program outside of the usual issues with particular instructors, fellow students, etc.; however, I’ve been having eyes for another degree program for awhile and am at a crossroads so to speak.

    The other degree I’ve been contemplating for the last year or two is Clemson University’s Master of Human Resource Development program. I’ve exchanged emails with the director of Clemson’s MHRD program and have been told they will accept 2 classes in transfer. If I transfer Introduction to HRD and the Research and Assessment Methods in HRD courses from Webster I will need to complete 10 courses at Clemson in order to complete their MHRD degree as compared to the 3 courses I will need to complete at Webster. The business programs at Webster University are accredited by ACBSP, while the MHRD program at Clemson University is housed in their school of education and holds no additional type of specialized accreditation.

    I really like the courses that are part of the Clemson MHRD program and feel that they will better prepare me for a position as a trainer, internal or external organizational consultant, HPI practitioner, etc. However, the fact that I’m so close to finishing the sequential MA in Human Resources Development at Webster University has me wondering if I shouldn’t go ahead and just finish up the program and get it off my plate so to speak. I currently work full-time in federal law enforcement and am an adjunct instructor at two different schools and am looking at this degree as an additional backup plan for post-retirement opportunities as well as a chance to move into a training position within my own organization. I am also looking into doctoral programs related to HRD at both Colorado State and the University of Texas at Tyler once I complete my master’s in HRD and both programs will prepare me for doctoral studies at either school.

    I have to admit I like the fact that Clemson is close to being a top twenty public research university according to USN&WR and feel that a degree from Clemson may be worth more in the long run than a degree from Webster University. I think a degree from a well known, respected school which is associated with other similar institutions in the ACC (Duke, North Carolina, Wake Forest, Boston College, Miami, Georgia Tech, Pittsburgh, Syracuse, etc.) will help solidify my academic background and allow me to top off my educational pursuits with a degree from a better school in case I decide to forego a doctorate. I know these considerations may seem shallow to some people but they are what they are and I’m hoping for some suggestions or comments from others who may have went the route of choosing to complete a degree from a better school in lieu of settling for a decent, if not spectacular, degree program from an ok school. If anyone has any opinions regarding which degree program would be best for pursuing a job in the training field, consulting, or HPI-related employment I’d appreciate the input as well.

    Here are the links to both the Webster University MA in HRD and the Clemson University MHRD degree programs:

    Webster University - M.A. in Human Resources Development

    Master of Human Resource Development : Clemson University

    abnrgr275
     
  2. major56

    major56 Active Member

    Clemson wins out over Webster in pedigree name recognition. That considered; 3-courses to conclusion vs. 10-courses are IMO a no brainer. Also, with the Clemson HR program under the auspice of its College of Education vs. its College of Business (AACSB) is somewhat unusual in my view. In the end as you’re already aware … you’ll determine the personal worth of the degree from Clemson vs. Webster or vice-versa.

    Just my $0.02 …
     

Share This Page