MILR is a two-year, on-campus degree based in Ithaca, NY, designed for people who aspire to HR and Labor leadership roles. It’s a professional degree for people ready to tackle the issues of organizational success, employee well-being, and labor relations. MILR covers leadership, decision-making, and conflict resolution. This degree brings both the theoretical and the practical into focus. Senior HR corporate executives and labor managers enrich MILR through deep interactions with students focused on real challenges faced in the workplace.
Answer some simple questions to see if you're a good candidate for the MILR program through our check your eligibility form. We will notify you of your eligibility for the program within two to three business days.
Why did I quit a good job to get my master's in HR?
Students discuss their journey from quitting their jobs, to moving to upstate NY, to anticipating graduation and what is next after earning their MILR degrees.
MILR Student Table Talk
Students talk candidly about their experience being part of Cornell University’s Master of Industrial and Labor Relations program.
Career Outcomes
There are many job and career field options available to those who earn a degree from the ILR School, including corporate HR, law, labor relations, government, non-profit, consulting, manufacturing, tech, and financial services to name a few.
Next-generation HR Leaders
“Our goal in the MILR program is to provide students with the learning and experiences that will enable them to become the next generation of leaders of the HR function. By offering a customizable program in which they can learn from their peers, alumni, HR executives, and faculty, students can pursue a learning journey that helps them each achieve their unique career goals."
Christopher J. Collins, Professor of HR Studies and
Director of Graduate Studies
If you're looking for an HR master's program designed to elevate your career, we encourage you to apply.
The application for Spring and Fall 2025 matriculation will open on September 1.
Program Structure
Degree and admissions requirements and tuition
Find out more about application requirements and the courses that make up the MILR degree. You will see the required credits needed to graduate, as well as tuition and fees.
Perfect for the human resources professional
The MILR program is perfect for the human resources professional looking to take the next step in their career. The program is designed to ensure that all students develop a strong a understanding of the latest HR practices and principles while also allowing significant flexibility so each student can take courses that align most closely with their personal interests.
Bradford Bell, William J. Conaty Professor of Strategic Human Resources, Human Resource Studies
See Yourself At Cornell
"As a passionate human resource professional, I wanted to gain my master’s degree at a program that would push me to be the best version of myself." Holly Harmon, MILR '23
"I chose the MILR program because it is truly the best place to study the world of work." Dhara Puvar MILR '21
"I was ultimately drawn to the program by its unparalleled resources and the interdisciplinary curriculum." Billy Sudiarto MILR/MBA '24
The benefits of the MILR program extend well beyond the exceptional classroom experience. Our students enjoy frequent opportunities to interact with HR leaders from premier companies, ongoing access to leading HR faculty and cutting-edge research on human resources, and – upon graduation – lifelong membership in a supportive and influential alumni network with a presence that spans the globe.
Rebecca Kehoe, Associate Professor, Human Resource Studies
The ILR School is at the center of Cornell's Ithaca campus. Plan a visit (virtual or in-person), register for online tours and events, and get in touch with our team to find out more about the place where you will study.
ILR Graduate Office
Cornell University
218 Ives Hall
Ithaca, NY 14853
Phone: (607) 255-1522
Fax: (607) 254-5225
ilrgradapplicant@cornell.edu
