The best online human resources schools offer a flexible and affordable path to a career in human resources (HR). These businessmen hire and train employees, take disciplinary action, and administer employee benefits.
Regardless of whether you are a freshman or career changer and have a bachelor's degree orMaster-Studium, online human resources programs can help you improve the skills you need to start a career in human resources. Read on to learn more about what a Human Resources degree can do for you.
Why study human resources?
- Colleges that offer human resources degrees teach fundamental and interpersonal skills that many companies value.
- Online HR programs offer ideal flexibility for working students.
- HR professionals play an important role in creating a safe work environment.
- If you're a sociable person, careers in human resources offer a collegial and professional atmosphere.
- Because human resources is a broad field, you can specialize in an area that suits your skills and professional interests.
did you know
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The number of jobs for HR professionals is expected to increase by 8% between 2021 and 2031, according to theDepartment of Labor Statistics(BLS). -
Typically, you only need a bachelor's degree to work in human resources, although you may need a master's degree for some managerial positions. -
The top 10% of hiring managers made more than$208,000 annuallyim May 2021! -
after aAccountemps Survey 2022, nearly 2 in 5 hiring managers believe Tuesday is the most productive day of the week.
Discover our featured business and human resource programs
How does accreditation for staff programs work?
When evaluating potential staffing programs, be sure to consider theaccreditation status.
Accreditation serves as a seal of approval, ensuring schools and programs provide academic quality, comprehensive student services, and financial support.
Accreditation comes in two forms: institutional accreditation for schools and programmatic accreditation for specific programs.
While HR programs are not necessarily accredited by HR, the best business programs have accreditation from agencies like theAccreditation Council for Business Schools and Programsit's himInternational Accreditation Council for Business Education.
Take a momentFind out if your HR program is accredited.
The best online accredited staffing programs
Read more about our methodology here
#1 Best HR Degree Online
Florida International University
Miami, Florida - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Florida International University offers a variety of learning opportunities at its main campus in Miami. Students who want to advance in human resources should consider the university's BBA in Human Resource Management. Outside the classroom, students can pursue experiential learning opportunities such as internships and faculty-led research projects.
Students from all walks of life benefit from the flexible format of the HR program. When considering distance learning, students should be aware that 27% of university programs support online learning. Enrollers can access a variety of campus resources during their studies, including college counseling and career services.
Summary of Florida International University:
Total academic programs: 250
Number of online programs: 67
Admission rate: 58%
Completion Rate: 63%
Percentage of students who received help: 90%
Average Amount of Aid Granted: $8,958
Percentage of students with approved loans: 29%
Average Loan Amount Granted: $7,203
Median price after help: $9,888
average tuition
Not state
4.721 $
not in the country
16.529 $
Retentionsrate
89%
admission fee
58%
Enrolled students
58.711
Type of Institution
Public
Percentage of online registration
68%
accreditation
Sim
#2 Best HR Degree Online
University of West Carolina
Cullowhee, Carolina do Norte - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Western Carolina University offers multiple degree programs, both in-person and online, at its main campus in Cullowhee, North Carolina. The University's Master of Human Resources equips students with industry-relevant knowledge and prepares them for the demands of an HR career. Students benefit from a 17 student to faculty ratio, with many opportunities to interact closely with faculty.
Students can take courses at the school's main campus in Cullowhee or take distance learning courses. To date, 18% of the university's degree programs allow for online study. Students can use campus resources such as student counseling and library services while enrolled.
University of West Carolina Overview:
Total academic programs: 107
Number of online programs: 19
Admission rate: 69%
Graduation rate: 62%
Percentage of students who received help: 85%
Average amount of aid given: $5,274
Percentage of student loans granted: 55%
Average Loan Amount Granted: $6,103
Median price after help: $12,965
average tuition
Not state
1.000 $
not in the country
5.000 $
Retentionsrate
78%
admission fee
69%
Enrolled students
12.167
Type of Institution
Public
Percentage of online registration
41%
accreditation
Sim
#3 Best HR Degree Online
Clemson University
Clemson, Carolina del Sur - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Clemson University offers several majors at its main campus in South Carolina. The school's Masters in Human Resource Development prepares students for future careers through core and specialty courses. The students complete basic and advanced courses and receive comprehensive training that prepares them for the requirements in the human resources sector.
Working and busy students benefit from the flexibility of the HR program and can learn in person or online. Prospective students wishing to study remotely should know that 20% of the university's degree programs support full online enrollment. Remote students benefit from academic and career guidance through academic counseling, career services, and other on-campus resources.
Summary of Clemson University:
Total academic programs: 249
Number of online programs: 49
Admission rate: 51%
Completion Rate: 84%
Percentage of students who received help: 92%
Average Amount of Aid Granted: $9,672
Proportion of students with credit: 39%
Average Loan Amount Granted: $6,637
Median price after aid: $21,482
average tuition
Not state
14.118 $
not in the country
$ 37.110
Retentionsrate
93%
admission fee
51%
Enrolled students
25.822
Type of Institution
Public
Percentage of online registration
29%
accreditation
Sim
#4 Best Online HR Degree
Stony Brook University
Stony Brook, Nova York - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in upstate New York, Stony Brook University offers a flexible and competitive education for students from near and far. The university's Master of Human Resource Management provides a world-class education for students interested in pursuing a career in human resources. Students benefit from learning opportunities both inside and outside the classroom and can pursue collaborative projects such as internships and faculty-led research.
Depending on their needs, students can complete the HR program in person or online. Distance students can choose from 31 courses that are available entirely online. Throughout their studies, students have access to academic guidance, professional services, and other institutional resources.
Stony Brook University Overview:
Total academic programs: 263
Number of online programs: 31
Admission rate: 44%
Completion Rate: 76%
Percentage of students who received help: 79%
Average Amount of Aid Granted: $9,540
Proportion of students with credit: 37%
Average Loan Amount Granted: $6,068
Median price after aid: $15,605
average tuition
Not state
$ 7.070
not in the country
24.740 $
Retentionsrate
89%
admission fee
44%
Enrolled students
26.814
Type of Institution
Public
Percentage of online registration
22%
accreditation
Sim
How much does a Human Resources degree cost?
The cost of an online human resources degree can vary significantly, ranging from $4,000 to $38,000 per year depending on tuition and feesNational Center for Education Statistics.
Some factors that can affect how much you pay for your Human Resources degree include:
- If you are looking for an associate, bachelor's, master's or doctoral degree
- If you attend a public or private school
- If you are an in-state or out-of-state student
- Whether you qualify for itfinancial help
Tuition-paying students at public institutions tend to enjoy the lowest fees, while those at private universities spend more.
As an online learner, you may incur additional costs such as technology fees. That means you save money on campus fees and transportation costs.
How Much Money Can You Make With a Human Resources Degree?
Because your Human Resources degree can lead to a variety of careers in both the public and private sectors, your earning potential may vary. Many human resources graduates go on to become human resources professionals. These pros did itmedian annual salary of $62,290May 2021, so die BLS.
Additional factors such as work experience, education, specialization, and location can also affect how much you will earn with a human resources degree.
Work | Average Annual Salary (May 2021) | Employment Growth Rate (2021-2031) | Minimum training required |
---|---|---|---|
Compensation and Performance Manager | 127.530 $ | 2% | Diploma |
personnel manager | 126.230 $ | 7% | Bachelor oder Master |
Education and training manager | 120.130 $ | 7% | Bachelor oder Master |
Industrial Relations Specialists | 77.010 $ | -3% | Diploma |
Compensation, benefits and job analysis specialists | $ 64.120 | 7% | Diploma |
HR Specialists | 62.290 $ | 8% | Diploma |
Education and training specialists | 61.570 $ | 8% | Diploma |
How to become a HR professional: 4-step guide
There is no one-size-fits-all path to a career in human resources, but there are some steps you will inevitably have to take on your professional journey. Read on to learn how to become a HR professional.
Step 1:earn a bachelor's degree in human resources
For many recruiters, the first step is to earn a bachelor's degree in human resources. These four-year programs introduce fundamental business practices while facilitating the development of core people skills.
In a bachelor's program in human resources, you will learn important topics such as employment law, leadership skills and conflict resolution.
Common Disciplines for Degrees in Human Resources
- accounting
- corporate communications
- Damage payment
- conflict resolution
- Labor Relations and Negotiations
- manager
- principles of economics
- Talent Recruitment and Retention
- training and development
Step 2:do an internship
Many human resources programs require you to complete an internship prior to graduation. Internship opportunities take place in approved workplaces and offer hands-on learning opportunities to give you a taste of what it's like to work in Human Resources.
An internship is also a great way to enhance your resume and build your professional network.
Step 3:be certified
While not a requirement for a career in human resources, earning multiple human resources certifications can enhance your resume, allow you to hone new skills, and differentiate yourself from the competition.
Whether you are an undergraduate or a graduate student, theHuman Resources Certification Institute(HRCI) offers a range of professional qualifications that can expand your career opportunities and increase your earning potential.
Examples of HRCI certifications are:
- Associate Professional in Human Resources
- Personnel specialist
- Senior HR Specialist
- global HR professional
Level 4:Consider a human resources degree
While a bachelor's degree in human resources can jumpstart your career in human resources, a college degree in human resources can open up career paths and increase your salary potential.
If youdo an MBAwith a specialization in HR, a master's degree in HR orPhD in human resources, these programs can help you improve the skills you need to take on leadership roles.
Frequently asked questions about human resources
What Can I Do With a Human Resources Degree?
A human resources degree can prepare you for many business-oriented careers in both the public and private sectors. Common roles include HR Specialist, HR Manager, HR Administrator, and Compensation and Benefits Manager.
A bachelor’s degree usually prepares you for entry-level positions, while a graduate degree in human resources prepares you to take on managerial roles in human resources.
Is studying human resources worth it?
Your earning potential as an HR professional may vary. Entry-level HR specialists earn a relatively modest income of around $62,000 per year, while HR managers can earn upwards of $100,000.BLS sea.
In addition to your educational background, your experience, industry, and geographic location can all influence how much money you take home.
Is human resources a difficult job?
Like many undergraduate programs, human resources challenges students to develop the skills needed to succeed in a professional environment. The difficulty of this stage depends on your skills and abilities.
In addition to taking core business and human resources courses, you will hone your critical thinking, problem-solving and collaboration skills, which are essential to perform well in a real-world professional environment.
Is HR a Stressful Career?
Like other careers that regularly involve people, an HR career has its stressors. However, for every employee termination and conflict resolution, there is the satisfying work of working together and successfully solving the problem.
Should You Study Human Resources?
If you enjoy dealing with people and solving problems, a degree in human resources could be just the right thing for you. A staff program is also ideal for those who want a career with plenty of room for growth and generous financial rewards.
Next Steps
FAQs
Best Human Resources Degrees | Accredited online schools? ›
Earning a bachelor's human resources degree is the most direct route toward a career in HR. Successful HR professionals need communication, business, finance, marketing, human services, and management skills. And these can all be developed with a bachelor's degree in human resources.
What is the best degree to get into HR? ›Earning a bachelor's human resources degree is the most direct route toward a career in HR. Successful HR professionals need communication, business, finance, marketing, human services, and management skills. And these can all be developed with a bachelor's degree in human resources.
Are HR degrees worth it? ›Job Security
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), human resources specialists have a very positive career outlook. Job growth for HR for workers with an HR degree is expected to rise 7% on average over the next eight years, which is higher than projected employment as a whole.
- Xavier Labour Relations Institute (XLRI) Jamshedpur. Course name: PGDHRM. ...
- Management Development Institute (MDI) Gurgaon. ...
- SVKMs NMIMS (Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies) Mumbai. ...
- Tata Institute of Social Sciences Mumbai. ...
- International Management Institute (IMI) Delhi. ...
- Xavier Institute of Social Service Ranchi.
Enhance your qualifications with an online short course in HR management, training and development, or executive coaching from the University of Cape Town (UCT). An empowering work environment helps ensure the well-being and productivity of the people who make up a company.
Is HR a hard career to get into? ›Entry-level HR jobs can be challenging to find, but many companies hire new graduates to learn more about HR through hands-on work.
Is HR a lucrative career? ›The average income for an HR professional in the United States is about $70,000 per year, according to Glassdoor and Indeed even for entry level positions. Those with a few years of experience, who earn in the top 10% make more than $100,000 each year. You enjoy working with people. 2.
Is it better to have an HR degree or certificate? ›If you want to become a leader in HR, then a master's degree in human resources will be a valuable credential. With a master's degree, you can be a change agent for an organization and its workforce, consulting with company leadership to solve workforce challenges and shape company culture.
How much do most HR managers make? ›Average base salary
Estimated take-home pay: $69,501.
Math. You were promised that you would not have to do math in HR; that's why you chose it instead of accounting. Sorry! While you don't need to do as much math as you do in accounting, a lot of compliance work requires a solid understanding of math and statistics.
What is the first HR certification I should get? ›
aPHR (Associate Professional in Human Resources) is the best choice for someone who is a new HR professional, or someone who is considering a career in HR but has little-to-no industry experience.
Which HR certification is easiest? ›HR Generalist Certification, aPHR Certificate, and PHR are the easiest as knowledge gained through these courses are comprehensive and applicable.
What makes the best HR department? ›HR is successful when the company has a culture focused on diversity, inclusion, equity, employee wellbeing, employee engagement and career development. HR is also successful when employees feel a sense of belonging and demonstrate their commitment to helping the company achieve its business goals.
Can I become HR without a degree? ›Experts say that yes, you can. “There is no barrier to entry to work in HR,” says Matt Stollak, SPHR, Associate Professor of Business Administration at St. Norbert College. On-the-job experience, online learning and certifications are all credible sources of HR knowledge.
How hard is it to study HR? ›Is a Human Resources Degree Hard? HR degrees can challenge students with their blend of business and human relations training. However, learners with proper preparation and study habits should find this program no more difficult than other business disciplines.
What are the requirements to study HR? ›Admission Requirements
A minimum APS of 28 with Mathematics or 28 with Mathematical Literacy. English 4 (50%), Mathematics or Technical Mathematics 4(50%), or Mathematical Literacy 5 (60%).
Becoming an HR specialist can take between three to six years. Most HR specialist jobs require candidates to possess bachelor's degrees in a relevant field, and these programs can last between three and four years, depending on your educational background.
How do I break into HR career? ›- Do your research. ...
- Visualize your dream job. ...
- Network as much as possible. ...
- Gain relevant degrees and experience. ...
- Demonstrate your accomplishments. ...
- Show off your unique skills. ...
- Tailor your resume. ...
- Keep pushing despite the setbacks.
HR professionals have been found to have some of the most stressful jobs of any professionals. As a result of having heavy workloads and a wide range of duties, HR professionals can easily find themselves in high-stress situations that could affect their ability to perform tasks.
Can I make 100k in HR? ›Yes, you can make $100,000 per year as a human resources manager. The chances of earning over $100k for a human resources manager are actually pretty good because the highest-paid human resources manager positions typically pay at least $118,000 per year.
What industry pays HR the most? ›
Training and Development Managers
Training and Development Manager is one of the highest paying jobs in HR. Training and development managers have a variety of responsibilities including: overseeing training and development staff. creating training programs that align with the company's goals.
Introverts are often good listeners—which is a key asset for HR professionals as well as an opportunity to engage with others. “I observe people and learn about their interests,” says Stan Bowman, an HR manager at Shepherd Oil Company LLC in Blackwell, Okla.
How long does it take to get a PHR certification? ›For PHR certification, candidates can qualify for the exam with at least one year of professional experience in a human resources job and a master's degree or higher. Another option is to have at least two years of professional experience in human resources and a bachelor's degree.
What is the difference between an HR certificate and an HR degree? ›Advancement in the Field of Human Resources
Even human resources managers usually need just a bachelor's degree as far as formal college education goes. Professional certification is voluntary and often awarded only after the HR professional has attained at least a few years of relevant work experience.
Your median pay could increase by as much as 54 percent as your certification level increases from SHRM-CP to SHRM-SCP, according to a large salary survey conducted by PayScale.
What does HR do all day? ›Human resources is in charge of arranging interviews, coordinating hiring efforts, and onboarding new employees. They're also in charge of making sure all paperwork involved with hiring someone is filled out and making sure that everything from the first day to each subsequent day is navigated successfully.
What state pays HR managers the most? ›- Connecticut - $127,128.
- Indiana - $117,424.
- California - $111,402.
- New York - $106,032.
- Massachusetts - $102,243.
...
Human Resources Specialists.
Lowest 10% | Median Salary | Highest 10% |
---|---|---|
Less than $37,180 | $61,920 | More than $105,930 |
However, for most traditional business administration, accounting, human resource management and economics degrees, beginning calculus and statistics comprise the entirety of the math requirements.
Does human resources require calculus? ›If you work with a Payroll focus, basic math skills need to be strong, but there's no need for advanced math like calculus.
What is HR math? ›
Human Resources Metrics
He does this through the calculation of HR metrics. Human resources metrics are formulas that are used to show the effectiveness and efficiency of a company's human resources department.
Associate Professional in Human Resources (aPHR)
The aPHR certification is one of the best credentials for individuals with no HR experience because it requires no previous education or experience.
According to HRCI's most recent statistics, the pass rate for the PHR exam is 59%. It's a challenging exam, but passing is an achievable goal if you dedicate the time to review the materials and also make sure to practice your test-taking skills.
How long do HR certifications last? ›Your PHR certification is valid for three years after testing. To maintain your PHR credential, you must earn 60 HR recertification credits over a three-year time span or retake the exam.
What is the lowest level of HR certification? ›The Associate Professional in Human Resources™ certification is perfect for entry-level human resources professionals because it doesn't require any previous work experience.
Which is better PHR or SHRM? ›PHR certifications are better than SHRM certifications in two ways. They cover more in the way of legality, compliance, and technical details. SHRM tends to test more soft skills and the application of management techniques, where PHR are generally more concerned with specific knowledge and compliance.
What are the three most important things in HR? ›- Talent Management. The talent management team in the HR department covers a lot of ground. ...
- Compensation and Benefits. ...
- Training and Development. ...
- HR Compliance. ...
- Workplace Safety.
- Be a Great Communicator. ...
- Be Aware Of Ethical Responsibilities. ...
- Develop Outstanding Leadership and Conflict Management Skills. ...
- Become an Expert in Organization and Multitasking.
Paying Employees and Negotiating Benefits
One of HR's primary roles is managing payment and benefits for an organization's staff. Proper management of compensation, time off, and insurance is what keeps employee satisfaction high.
- Physical therapist assistant. National average salary: $30.89 per hour. ...
- Safety manager. National average salary: $31.52 per hour. ...
- Surgical technician. ...
- Technical writer. ...
- Construction project manager. ...
- User experience designer. ...
- Real estate agent. ...
- Dental hygienist.
What does HR Assistant do? ›
A Human Resources (HR) Assistant is a professional who is responsible for the daily administrative and HR duties of an organization. They assist with recruitment and record maintenance for payroll processing as well as provide clerical support to all employees.
Can you get SHRM certified without a degree? ›Candidates for the SHRM-CP certification are not required to hold an HR title and do not need a degree or previous HR experience to apply; however, a basic working knowledge of HR practices and principles or a degree from an Academically Aligned program is recommended.
What should I study for HR career? ›Courses that develop oral and written communication skills are equally essential. But most important, HR students should study business—economics, general business, business and labor law, accounting, marketing, management, and statistics (also known as quantitative methods).
What is diploma in people management? ›Accredited by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) the Associate Diploma in People Management provides an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the theory underpinning the core areas of HR.
How do I move into HR? ›- Assess your needs. ...
- Tell people you know. ...
- Get human resources certifications. ...
- Pursue continuing education. ...
- Consider getting a job at a temp agency. ...
- Join a professional association. ...
- Volunteer. ...
- Update your resume.
HR assistants often move into professional-level roles, such as recruiting manager, payroll manager, staffing manager, administrator or human resources manager. Most HR professionals choose between two broad paths: generalist or specialist. Generalist – Human resources generalists often perform a wide variety of tasks.
How do you qualify for HR? ›As is the case with most HR roles, there are a number of ways to achieve the title of HR manager. You can take on undergraduate programmes, training schemes, and postgraduate programmes, for example, or even enrol on a Higher National Diploma (HND).
How do I start a career in HR with no experience? ›If you don't have any professional HR experience, highlight transferable skills that you've gained and sharpened at previous jobs. HR is a people-focused profession, so showcase skills like collaboration, leadership skills and the ability to work well in diverse groups of people.
Can you get into HR without a degree? ›Experts say that yes, you can. “There is no barrier to entry to work in HR,” says Matt Stollak, SPHR, Associate Professor of Business Administration at St. Norbert College. On-the-job experience, online learning and certifications are all credible sources of HR knowledge.
Is HR a stressful job? ›According to a Perkbox survey of over 16,000 people across 50 cities, a whopping 79% of Human Resource employees reported unhealthy levels of job stress, making them the most stressed out profession. If you're involved in the field, this may not surprise you.
Is HR good career for introverts? ›
Introverts are often good listeners—which is a key asset for HR professionals as well as an opportunity to engage with others. “I observe people and learn about their interests,” says Stan Bowman, an HR manager at Shepherd Oil Company LLC in Blackwell, Okla. “My goal always is to find a common ground.
What is the first step in the HR career? ›The two key elements required for moving up the professional ladder in HR are education and experience. The career path for human resources professionals usually begins with an education in human resources management or a related field.
What skills do you need to work in HR? ›- Communication skills. ...
- Decision-making skills. ...
- Training and developmental skills. ...
- Empathic skills. ...
- Finance skills. ...
- Organizational skills. ...
- Business management skills. ...
- Leadership skills.
- Take Your Time. Get out of the mindset that you need to hurry up with your decision before you “get any older.” Take some time to discover what you want and how to get it. ...
- Promote Your Strengths. ...
- Get Up to Speed. ...
- Focus on Your Passion, Not Your Age. ...
- Involve Your Family.
Working in HR will give you the opportunity to influence the well-being and productivity of employees in the workplace, creating a more positive workplace culture. For example, HR departments in many companies host professional development events or promote wellness programs targeted towards employees.
What are the 4 types of human resource? ›- Human Resources Assistant. The primary duty of a Human Resources Assistant is to assist HR managers and directors with various administrative tasks. ...
- Employment Specialist. ...
- Human Resources Generalist. ...
- Human Resources Manager.
- Recruitment and hiring.
- Onboarding and ongoing training and development.
- Managing employee and employer relationships.
- Creating a rewarding company culture.
- Overseeing disciplinary action.
The three major roles in human resources are; administrative, change management, and people management.