<p>I’m currently working as a human resources manager. I do not suggest going for a master’s degree immediately after undergrad if you choose this field - I have a BA in psychology and from my experience in the field, it is better to gain 2-5 years of HR experience before going back for an advanced degree. I don’t think having an MA/MS degree in HRM would have helped me find a better job with 0 work experience in the field. I think real world experience also adds more substance to the master-level courses, as you can apply your personal experiences to the concepts you’re learning.</p>
<p>The HR field is steadily growing and has good prospects, but HR is not for everyone. You have a fairly wide variety of possibilities, so you need to narrow down which will be fulfilling for you personally, fit in to your financial budget and income expectations, and matches your personal qualities and skill set. A PhD is not a decision to be made lightly either, as you already know it requires 4-6+ years of dedication on average, and then a hard road to finding a tenured position if academia is your goal. A path like that requires sincere interest in the subject you’re studying. </p>
<p>You still have at least another year or so to explore these options, and there is nothing wrong with taking time off after undergrad to work for a while before going back to graduate school, especially if you remain unsure of what direction to go in. In the meantime, try to get in touch with profs in those areas, look for internships, gain research experience (in case you decide to try the PhD route), etc. You do not need all of the answers now.</p>
<p>-- As a side note, when I was in undergrad I thought I’d pursue a PhD in social psychology or consumer behavior/marketing - but after “falling” into my HR role, I find it to be a much more suitable path. Sometimes you don’t know what you want until you’re out of school and in the working world.</p>