Human Resources Emphasis

Apply Now Explore Admissions
Employees talking with one another

As hospitality organizations have become increasingly aware of the importance to attract, build and retain the best representatives for their workforce, they have looked to human resources to lead the way. This emphasis prepares students for the field by drawing on high-quality instruction, student internships and experiences to prepare students to manage and lead organizations in the global business of hospitality. You will gain an in-depth knowledge about a variety of topics, including learning to act as administrative experts, change agents, and strategic partners, and learning job responsibilities such as:

  • talent management / staff recruitment and selection
  • training and development
  • change management
  • employee relations
  • complaints and grievances
  • employee rights
  • appraisals
  • health and safety
  • strategic planning

12 or more credit hours from the following:

  • HRTM 481 Legal Environment in Hospitality Management
  • HRTM 484 Human Resources Management in the Hospitality Industry
  • JGEN 120 Basic Business Communication
  • MNGT 361 Human Resource Management
  • MNGT 461 Strategic Human Resource Management*
  • MNGT 464 Talent Acquisition & Staffing*
  • EDAD 422 Instructional Design in Human Resource Development*

*Does not count toward degree requirements, but can be used as electives.

Beyond the Classroom

Gain experience learning through student clubs, organizations and more.

Collage of photos representing Social Media

UNL SHRM Student Chapter

The UNL Society of Human Resources (SHRM) Chapter allows students to learn more about the HR field, network with professionals, participate in conference and competitions, and attend local and national seminars and workshops. To get involved, visit their website.

Student talking to employees

Lincoln Human Resource Management Association

The Lincoln Human Resource Management Association (LHRMA) provides countless opportunities and benefits for student members that will help them progress and grow in their field. Email College Relations Chair Jenessa Keiser at college.relations@lincolnhr.org to learn more.

Student talking to employees

Internship in Human Resources

An internship will be one of the best things you can do to help prepare yourself for your future as a human resources professional, gaining real world insight and experience while working with industry professionals.

Work with the best

Hannah Riggle, Alumna

Training & Development Specialist, Spreetail

Hannah graduated from the UNL hospitality, restaurant and tourism management program in 2014. Since that time, she has  primarily worked in human resources in recruitment and training.

Hannah started her career at Hudl in Lincoln, then worked for Marketo (acquired by Adobe) in Denver, eventually moving back to Lincoln where she currently works as a training and development specialist at Spreetail.

Hannah Riggle portrait

Learn from the best

Jennifer Monroe

Human Resources Supervisor

Jennifer is the Human Resources Supervisor with Duncan Aviation in Lincoln, Nebraska.  She has past experience working with the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services as well as the Nebraska Department of Administrative Services. 

In addition to Human Resources certifications from the Human Resources Standards Institute and the Society for Human Resources Management, Jennifer also serves as a member of the UNL Hospitality, Restaurant, and Tourism Management Advisory Board. 

Learn more about Jennifer
Shannon Rowen portrait