Master of Industrial and Labor Relations (MILR)
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.
The degree is both wide and deep. It’s built up from the research of ILR’s world-class faculty and the real-world experience of practitioners. You can study from a huge range of human resources and labor relations courses from organizational design and culture to compensation to labor relations to mediation, while also focusing on the application of workplace research.
MILR alumni succeed in what they set out to do. Many students have job offers before graduating. Most experience faster career advancement and stronger earning power.
Graduates join the wide network of Cornell alumni in high-level HR and labor relations positions.
Admissions
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
Current MILR Human Resources and Organization students talk candidly about their experience being part of Cornell University’s Master of Industrial and Labor Relations program.
Find out more about the courses that make up the MILR degree, and the required credits needed to graduate.
Contact us at ilrgradapplicant@cornell.edu to discuss your application options!
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. Or if you're ready, apply now.
Career Outcomes
There are many job and career field options available to those who earn a degree from the ILR School, including corporate HR, labor relations, labor, government, law, non-profit, consulting, and financial services.
View MILR career outcome statistics
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
Student Stories
Read all MILR student stories
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.
Degree Specializations
Master of Industrial and Labor Relations (MILR) is a two-year professional, career-focused degree for those interested in putting their education into practice. The MILR is specifically for students preparing to enter the workforce or professionals who wish to enhance their education and skills.
ILR Graduate Office
Cornell University
218 Ives Hall
Ithaca, NY 14853
Phone: (607) 255-1522
Fax: (607) 254-5225
ilrgradapplicant@cornell.edu
