OL/HRD Courses
GHRD 501: Introduction to OL/HRD
(Core Req) 3 Credits - Lecture Based
This course provides the student with an introduction to the philosophy, roles, and functions of the HRD department. The primary focus of the course is on creating effectiveness in the OL/HRD function in relation to the organization operating as a whole. The interdependence of the OL/HRD function to the larger organization is also focused upon. The course uses an experiential approach to learning.
GHRD 502: Introduction to Organization Development
(Core Req) 3 Credits - Lecture Based
Organization development is the process by which an OL/HRD practitioner enhances organizational effectiveness through learning. This course introduces the student to models for practice and the interventions that are employable at the individual, group, and organizational level.
GHRD 503: Introduction to Adult Learning: Theory and Practice
(Core Req) 3 Credits - Lecture Based
This course provides students with an introduction to the theory, principles, and models of adult learning in the workplace. Students will learn the essential components of adult learning and of facilitating it. The course also introduces the student to the concept of transfer of training and the importance of addressing it in the learning process.
GHRD 504: Training Design and Development
(Core Req) 3 Credits - Lecture Based
The focus of this course is the improvement of performance through learning in the workplace. The course will review the elements of assessment, design, development, implementation, and evaluation as a means of creating workplace learning that improves employee effectiveness.
GHRD 505: Group Dynamics and Interventions
(Core Req) 3 Credits - Lecture Based
Group process, conflict management, and process consultation theory and techniques provide the focus for this course. The student will develop an understanding of theories related to this area of study and learn the application of skills directly related to the improvement of group effectiveness at the functional and cross-functional related levels.
GHRD 507: Evaluative Research Methods
(Core Req) 3 Credits - Lecture Based
This course will introduce qualitative and quantitative research methods appropriate for use in the field of human resource development. The student will work with qualitative and quantitative data related to the workplace to aid in application of the learning. The course will introduce the theory and techniques of research for needs assessment, formative and summary evaluative purposes. Prerequisite: 504.
GHRD 508: Business Skills for OL/HRD Professionals
(Core Req) 3 Credits - Lecture Based
The emphasis of this course is to introduce the concepts, language, and a basic understanding of four key business areas: Accounting and Finance, Marketing and Sales, Operations, and Information Technology. This course will prepare students to be OL/HRD professionals that can speak the language of business, make interdepartmental connections during strategic planning, and proactively affect the strategic direction of their company. This course is designed for GHRD students who have had few or no business courses. First-year course.
GHRD 509: Performance Improvement and Workforce Development
(Core Req) 3 Credits - Lecture Based
This course provides students with an introduction to the theory, principles, and models of performance improvement and workforce development workplace. Students will learn the essential components of workplace performance improvement using the ASTD Model for Human Performance Improvement. Not only will the students become familiar with the HPI model but they will develop the competency to introduce the model to others in the workforce. Second-year course.
GHRD 510 HRD Leadership (3)
(Core Req) 3 Credits - Lecture Based
This is a leadership course involving the HRD practitioner role in helping organizations improve performance. The course focuses on the entire body of HR development activities in a systems-oriented view that integrates the student’s role in all aspects of organizational excellence. The focus is on leadership development for the HRD professionals and on their individual influences on other leaders in organization. Students work alone and in teams to study and apply techniques for leading people and organizations. Second year course.
GHRD 520: Strategy in OL/HRD
(Core Req) 3 Credits - Lecture Based
Strategic planning takes on a specific focus of OL/HRD in this course. The students will apply learning in environmental scanning, SWOT analysis, strategy development and evaluation. The course considers the overall organizational strategic plan in relation to the goals and directions of the human resource development department.
GHRD 590: Capstone Project in OL/HRD
(Core Req) 3 Credits - Independent Study
This course is an individualized research project. The course research project draws upon and uses much of the knowledge and skills developed during the OL/HRD program. The student will need to use the tools, techniques and theory learned from previous courses to design and carry out an applied research project. This project requires the coordination and supervision of the Program Director and should be completed during the student's final semester of study. Prerequisites: 504 and 507.