Master of Professional Studies (Workforce Development)
Hours: 30 Online
About
The Master of Professional Studies (Workforce Development) program at Fort Hays State University is a comprehensive graduate program designed to prepare students for success in the dynamic field of training and development. Offered in both the fall and spring semesters, the program equips students with advanced knowledge and practical skills to lead workforce initiatives across various organizational settings.
Ideal for professionals seeking career advancement or a transition into the high-demand workforce development field, this program combines theoretical foundations with real-world application. Participants gain the expertise needed to become effective training and development specialists capable of making an immediate impact within their organizations.
Why pursue a Master of Professional Studies (Workforce Development) at Fort Hays State University?
FHSU's Master of Professional Studies (MPS) with a concentration in Workforce Development stands out for its unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application. Designed specifically for working professionals, this program allows students to advance their careers without interrupting their schedules.
Delivered fully online, the program features an industry-focused curriculum, hands-on learning opportunities, and instruction from expert faculty. Students gain the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to succeed and lead in the workforce development sector.
Who is this program for?
This program equips graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to design, deliver, and evaluate training programs across diverse organizational settings. It is ideal for:
- Corporate trainers who want to enhance their skills and knowledge in training program design and delivery
- Human resources professionals seeking to expand their expertise in employee training and development
- Adult learners continuing education who want to advance their careers or transition into workforce development
- Professionals in leadership positions aiming to refine their skills
- Those with a background in a related field looking to advance their career prospects
Learning Outcomes
The Master of Professional Studies (Workforce Development) program is carefully designed to meet the evolving needs of today’s workforce. Upon successful completion, graduates will be able to:
Demonstrate Research Skills in Workforce Education
The program emphasizes a deep understanding of workforce education, including its historical foundations, theoretical frameworks, and current trends. Graduates will be able to critically evaluate research and apply evidence-based practices to address workforce-related challenges effectively.
Exhibit Competence in Understanding Workforce Development
The program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of workforce development principles and their alignment with organizational goals. Graduates will be able to analyze organizational needs and design effective strategies to improve employee performance and drive productivity.
Utilize a Global Mindset to Address Trends and Emerging Needs
This program fosters a global perspective on workforce development, enabling students to identify and respond to emerging challenges and opportunities in the international marketplace. Graduates will be prepared to help organizations succeed in an increasingly interconnected and competitive world.
Develop and Implement Training Strategies to Meet Organizational Needs
Students learn to design, develop, and implement effective training programs aligned with organizational goals. The curriculum covers identifying training needs, setting clear learning objectives, and creating engaging learning experiences that promote skill development, knowledge acquisition, and meaningful behavioral change.
Real-World Applications
Organizations across industries increasingly seek professionals who can design, implement, and evaluate talent development programs to boost employee performance, drive organizational growth, and foster a culture of continuous learning. The MPS with a concentration in Workforce Development is designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and real-world experience needed to meet these demands.
A key component of the program is the Culminating Experience course, where students apply what they’ve learned to a real-world challenge or opportunity. Guided by experienced faculty, students complete projects aligned with their career goals, gaining practical insight into the responsibilities and strategic decisions faced by workforce development professionals.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Fort Hays State University is committed to delivering a forward-thinking education by continually integrating the latest advancements, industry trends, and emerging technologies into its curriculum. This ensures that students receive relevant, up-to-date training that reflects the evolving demands of today’s professional landscape.
Hands-on Activities
The MPS with a concentration in Workforce Development program offers a variety of experiential learning opportunities, including internships, job shadowing, research projects, and conference participation, enabling students to apply classroom knowledge to real-world challenges. Additionally, FHSU emphasizes applied learning throughout the core courses, encouraging students to address practical scenarios and develop effective workforce development solutions.
What You’ll Learn:
- Develop expertise in workforce development principles and practices
- Acquire skills in instructional design and delivery
- Apply strategies for evaluating training programs
- Understand the role of technology in workforce development
- Explore career paths in the field of talent development
How You’ll Learn:
- Engage in a blend of theoretical foundations and practical applications
- Gain hands-on experience through internships or a professional project
- Network with industry professionals through workshops and seminars
- Collaborate with peers in a supportive learning environment
- Benefit from the guidance of experienced faculty
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,139.02* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the FHSU Online Graduate tuition rate ($348.78/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
When considering the MPS with a concentration in Workforce Development, students may also explore related degree programs that provide diverse opportunities. These programs include:
- M.S. in Education Administration
- Ed.S in Advanced Professional Studies (Business Education and Workforce Leadership)
- Master of Science in Education (Business Emphasis)
- Master of Liberal Studies (Corporate Communication)
- Master of Business Administration (Corporate Communication)
Information about the Department of Applied Business Studies
The Department of Applied Business Studies at FHSU is committed to preparing you for a successful career in business by aligning your goals and abilities with the needs of the world. Whether you choose to study on-campus or online, our degree programs provide you with practical business insights, real-world case studies, and future-forward decision-making skills that are crucial in an ever-evolving field.
Our programs cover a broad spectrum of business disciplines, including business education, marketing, and tourism and hospitality management. Our immersive curriculum, taught by faculty who stay current with industry trends, will help you gain the knowledge and experience needed to thrive in various sectors, from small-town businesses to global corporations. Our graduates are highly sought after in the job market, and we take pride in our high placement rates and the success of our alumni.