Human Resources Degree Programs Forming Successful Teams in the Workplace

Human Resources at a Glance

From jobs with small local shops to international companies, human resources careers are available throughout the world of business. Most positions require a bachelor’s degree, although associate degrees can open the door to some entry-level jobs.

A career in human resources entails a wide variety of duties designed to help an organization run smoothly, including recruiting and hiring employees, strategic planning for employee placement, implementing training programs, and administering employee benefits and compensation. The work requires professionals to show meticulous attention to detail while still understanding the broader picture, as well as skills in mediating disputes and communicating with people throughout the company.

Human Resources Degree Options: In-Depth

Human resources degree programs are available at every college level, from associate to graduate degree programs. Although an associate degree will suffice for some entry-level work, most employers prefer to hire applicants who have earned their bachelor’s degree in human resources. Students who choose to enter graduate courses usually do so with an eye on management positions. Here’s what students can expect from each degree level.

Human Resources Associate Degrees

Human Resources Bachelor’s Degrees

In addition to general education courses, such as mathematics, English and history, students in bachelor’s degree programs can expect to take classes similar to those listed below:

Graduate Degrees in Human Resources

At the graduate level, courses cover more advanced topics that are tailored to high-level decision making and management. Some sample courses are described below.

Key Markers of a Standout HR Program

When choosing a human resources degree program, there are several factors to consider. Making a ‘must-have’ list allows students to narrow down the many options and create a shortlist of schools worth further exploration. Students should look for:

Essential Skills for the Human Resources Professional

A certain set of skills, personality traits, certifications, and points of experience can help human resources professionals succeed. Individuals should try to bolster skills in the following areas:

Opportunities in Human Resources: Careers & Specializations

Human resources jobs are available at all levels and with a variety of specialties, allowing students to choose a focus that most interests them—from employee training or workplace psychology to benefits and financial management. Before choosing a degree program, students can review some of the possible positions in the field:

Similar Business & Management Programs

If a human resources degree program doesn’t seem to be the right fit, students can find related programs that often include elements of human resources in the curriculum. The following are a few similar degree options.

Additional Resources for HR Professionals

• Academy of Human Resource Development
• American Payroll Association
• Association for Talent Development
• College and University Professional Association for Human Resources
• HR.com
• HR Certification Institute
• National Association of African Americans in Human Resources
• National Human Resources Association
• Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM)
• World at Work
• World Federation of People Management Associations