With the advancements in online education, pursuing a degree in human resource management has become more accessible than ever before.
Is a Degree in HR Management Worth It?
A degree in HR management is valuable as it provides essential knowledge and skills for various career opportunities. HR professionals are crucial in every organization, managing employee relations and ensuring compliance with regulations. Having a degree shows commitment to learning and development, enhancing employability. It also serves as a foundation for advanced certifications (see below) that support career advancement.
Why Get a Degree in Human Resources?
Obtaining a degree in Human Resources provides a solid foundation through general education courses and specialized training, positioning individuals for diverse career opportunities within the field. Undergraduate degree programs, particularly within a school of business, offer a comprehensive curriculum, equipping future HR specialists and professionals with both theoretical knowledge and real-world skills essential for success in today’s dynamic workplaces.
What Degree Is Best for Human Resource Management?
A Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management is an excellent foundation for entering the HR field. This degree program typically covers essential topics such as labor relations, employment law, compensation management, and organizational behavior, equipping graduates with the necessary competencies for a successful career in HR.
Why Get a Master’s Degree in HR?
If you are pursuing a more specialized role or aiming for leadership positions within the field, further education, such as a Master of Science in Human Resource Management or an MBA with a concentration in HR, may be beneficial. These advanced degrees offer in-depth knowledge and advanced skills in HR strategy, talent development, organizational leadership, and global HR management, providing graduates with a competitive edge in the job market and opportunities for career advancement.
Can You Be in HR Without a Degree?
While it’s possible to enter the field of HR without a degree, having a bachelor’s degree in human resource management or a related field significantly enhances employment prospects and potential for career advancement.
Can I Get an HR Degree Online?
Absolutely. Many reputable institutions offer online bachelor’s and master’s degrees in human resource management, catering to both full-time students and working professionals seeking enrollment flexibility. These programs ensure that students, including transfer students and high school graduates, can fulfill general education requirements while specializing in HR fundamentals. Through specialized online courses, students delve into business administration, information systems, employee benefits, decision-making, and other essential aspects of HR management, earning college credit while honing their skills.
What Can I Expect From an Online Human Resources Degree Program?
Online human resources degree programs typically cover a broad range of human resource functions, including HR fundamentals, organizational behavior, employment law, and strategic management. Students can anticipate interactive lectures, virtual discussions, and assignments tailored to enhance their understanding of HR principles and practices.
What Does an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resource Management Entail?
An online bachelor’s degree in HR management is a program designed to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to thrive as Human Resource Professionals. These programs offer specialization in HR fundamentals, ensuring that students understand the intricacies of workforce management and organizational behavior, all within the flexible framework of online learning platforms.
How Long Does It Take To Get an HR Bachelor’s Degree Online?
Typically, an online bachelor’s degree in human resource management requires four years of full-time study, equivalent to 120 credit hours. However, completion time may vary based on elective courses and capstone projects. Some programs offer accelerated options or accept transfer credits, potentially shortening the timeframe.
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resource Management?
Admission requirements for an online bachelor’s degree typically include a high-school diploma, a satisfactory GPA, and either a SAT or ACT score.
Admission Requirements for an Online Master’s Degree in Human Resource Management
For an online Master’s, admission requirements typically are a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, and sometimes relevant work experience and/or GMAT or GRE scores.
How Do Online Human Resource Management Degree Programs Compare to Traditional On-Campus Programs?
Online programs offer greater flexibility and convenience but require more self-discipline. The quality of education can be comparable to on-campus programs, especially if the online program is from an accredited institution. Online coursework allows students to access learning materials and complete assignments at their own pace, providing a flexible learning experience tailored to individual schedules and preferences.
How Much Does an Online Degree in Human Resource Management Cost?
The cost of pursuing an online degree in Human Resource Management, whether it’s a master’s or bachelor’s program, can fluctuate significantly based on factors such as the institution, available financial aid, and potential scholarships. It’s essential to conduct thorough research on the expenses associated with each online program you’re considering to make an informed decision regarding your investment in your education.
How Do I Choose an Accredited Online Program for a Human Resource Management Degree?
Accreditation ensures that the program meets high academic standards. Prospective students should look for accreditation from recognized bodies such as the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) or the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
Top Schools for an Online Bachelor’s in Human Resources
According to Forbes, the following rankings show the top online Bachelor’s in Human Resources Degrees for 2024.
- Metropolitan State University
- Western Illinois University
- Temple University
- SUNY College of Technology at Delhi
- Wichita State University
- Concordia University, St. Paul
- McKendree University
- Upper Iowa University
- University of Michigan—Flint
- University of St Francis
Top Schools for an Online MBA in Human Resources
According to U.S. News, the following are the top-ranked online MBA programs that offer HR Management:
- Indiana University—Bloomington (Kelley)
- University of Massachusetts—Amherst (Isenberg)
- University of Utah (Eccles)
- Oklahoma State University (Spears)
- Pennsylvania State University—World Campus
- University of Pittsburgh (Katz)
- University of Nebraska—Lincoln
- George Washington University
- Colorado State University
- University of California—Davis
What Can You Do With a Human Resource Management Degree?
Graduates of human resource management programs can pursue diverse career paths, including roles as human resources generalists, human resources specialists, development specialists, benefits managers, staffing directors, talent acquisition specialists, and employee relations managers. These degrees open doors to opportunities in higher management positions, empowering professionals to make meaningful contributions to organizations’ success.
Should Graduates Join an HR Association?
Graduates of online HR Management degree programs can often greatly benefit from joining an HR Association for various reasons. These associations provide opportunities for professional networking, connecting graduates with experienced practitioners and potential employers. Additionally, they offer continuing education resources such as workshops and webinars to enhance graduates’ knowledge and skills. Membership can also enhance credibility and reputation within the HR community, leading to career advancement opportunities. Moreover, HR Associations provide access to valuable resources and advocacy support, helping graduates stay informed and navigate workplace challenges. Overall, joining an HR Association is essential for graduates seeking to build their professional network, stay current in the field, advance their careers, and access valuable resources and support networks.
Top 8 HR Associations To Advance Your Career
There are many HR associations to select from, but the following is a compilation of the most recognized associations in the industry.
Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM)
SHRM was founded in 1948 and is the largest HR association in the world, boasting 285,000 members. Members have access to a wealth of online resources, including personalized content and discounts on educational offerings. Members can obtain certifications that are recognized across the industry.
National Human Resources Association (NHRA)
NHRA has been around since 1951 and relies completely on volunteers to run the organization. The association focuses on being a resource for professionals throughout their careers, from intern to executive level. The meetings, seminars, and conferences held by the NHRA are generally small and geared toward fostering strong interpersonal connections.
Academy of Human Resources Development (AHRD)
AHRD was created to encourage continuing education in the field of human resources. The organization operates on a global scale and provides online resources as well as opportunities for networking through conferences and other events.
Association for Talent Development (ATD)
The ATD organization is best suited for HR professionals who specialize in training and development. The association offers a library of varied training materials and conferences to assist with development. The ATD also assists HR professionals looking for a job and organizations looking for HR professionals.
International Association for Human Resources Information Management (IHRIM)
The goal of IHRIM is to help members stay on top of the newest HR and HR technology information. The association was formed in 1980 to help professionals in the HR field collaborate, stay educated, and acquire certifications. The organization offers an annual conference, periodic publications, and access to HR systems, vendors, and job listings for all members.
College and University Professional Association for Human Resources (CUPA-HR)
CUPA-HR is an organization based on optimizing HR management within the university and college setting. The organization consists of roughly 6,000 members. The main focus of the organization is regulatory issues that may affect human resources as a field, higher education, or both.
American Payroll Association (APA)
The APA was established in 1982 and has come to be the leading payroll association in the United States. The organization is roughly 20,000 members strong. Members enjoy access to publications, seminars, training conferences, and certification opportunities.
Human Capital Institute (HCI)
HCI is a fast-growing HR organization that consists of about 190,000 members from around the world. HCI provides members with access to thousands of HR-related articles and case studies, videos and webcasts, and consistently updated blogs. HCI strives to help members realize the maximum benefit from their human capital.
What Certificates Should an HR Professional Obtain?
HR professionals can significantly boost their credibility and marketability by obtaining relevant certifications in the field. These certifications validate their expertise and demonstrate their commitment to excellence in human resources management.
Top 10 HR Certifications To Advance Your Career
Here is a list of 10 well-known and respected certifications that HR professionals can consider pursuing. These certifications cover various HR domains, including strategic HR management, employee relations, compensation and benefits, talent acquisition, and diversity and inclusion. By obtaining a certification, HR professionals can enhance their skills, advance their careers, and contribute more effectively to their organizations’ success.
Certifications Offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM):
Certifications Offered by the HR Certification Institute (HRCI):
- Professional in Human Resources (PHR)
- Associate Professional in Human Resources (aPHR)
- Professional in Human Resources – International (PHRi)
- Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR)
- Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR)
Certifications Offered by the Association for Talent Development (ATD):
Certifications Offered by WorldAtWork:
Certifications Offered by the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans (ISCEBS):
Certifications Offered by the Institute for Diversity Certification (IDC):
To get more in-depth information on HR certifications, check out Matchr’s article.
