HCD Master's Program
Human Capital Development (HCD) MS Program Overview
The Master of Science in Human Capital Development emphasizes both a research and theory framework as well as the practical application of workplace learning and performance. The goal of the program is to prepare students to improve human performance, balance individual and organizational needs, build knowledge capital within the organization, and determine the return on investment of performance improvement programs. Students learn to think strategically to design and develop interventions that will positively impact workplace learning and performance. Faculty and industry experts facilitate a think-tank learning environment where creativity flourishes and students engage with the best minds in workforce development.
Program Format: Online
The 30-credit hour Human Capital Development MS fully online degree can be completed from anywhere through Canvas, USM’s virtual learning environment and course management system. Students are not required to visit campus. A mastery project and comprehensive exam are completed during the student’s final semester. Each course is delivered asynchronously in 8-week sessions.
Comprehensive exam and mastery project are completed as part of HCD 691. Students must apply for graduation the semester prior to graduation and be continuously enrolled in Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters.
Program Curriculum
Core Courses (15 hours):
- HCD 640 - Workforce Development Models (3 hrs)
- HCD 643 - Design and Development of Performance Improvement (3 hrs)
- HCD 660 - Foundations of Human Capital Development (3 hrs)
- HCD 675 - Research in Human Capital Development (3 hrs)
- HCD 725 - Advanced Workforce Analysis (3 hrs)
Electives (12 hours):
- HCD 665 - Human Capital Development Project Management (3 hrs)
- HCD 680 - Human Capital Development Seminar (1-6 hrs)
- HCD 692 - Topics in Human Capital Development (1-6 hrs)
- HCD 695 - Emerging Digital Technologies for Human Capital Development (3 hrs)
- HCD 715 - Change Leadership (3 hrs)
- HCD 720 - Competency Models (3 hrs)
- HCD 792 - Special Problems (1-6 hrs)
- ITD 645 - Technology in Education (3 hrs)
- ITD 648 - Digital Communications in Education (3 hrs)
- ITD 650 - Instructional Strategies of Online Teaching (3 hrs)
- ITD 755 - Web Development and Assessment (3 hrs)
- ITD 780 - Seminar in Instructional Technology (3 hrs)
Mastery Project (3 hours):
- HCD 691 - Research (3 hrs)