Admission to the Ph.D. program in industrial relations and human resources is highly competitive. New students enter the program once per year, and, on average, only two or three students are admitted per year. The school values diversity and is strongly committed to equal opportunity.

While many factors affect the admissions process, the admissions committee especially values research training and experience. In their personal statements, applicants are encouraged to describe in detail their involvement in research activities. When evaluating applications, the faculty also considers test scores, past academic achievement, and relevant work experience. Completion of a terminal master's degree in a related field of study is not required for admission. A student who holds a master's degree upon entering the program must fulfill the same degree requirements as students without master's degrees. Credits earned in a master's degree program usually are not applied toward the doctoral degree requirements. The deadline for receipt of application materials is January 5, and the school makes decisions by March 31 for enrollment in the following fall semester.