Guide To Human Resources Degrees

Types of Human Resources Degrees

There are several types of human resources degrees available for individuals interested in pursuing a career in this field. Ranging from associate to master’s degrees, each level provides a different depth of knowledge and expertise in HR management. Additionally, online programs and alternative certifications offer flexible options for those with busy schedules or seeking specialized skills.

Associate Degree in Human Resources

An Associate Degree in Human Resources is a two-year undergraduate program that introduces students to the fundamentals of HR practices and principles. Typically offered by community colleges and technical schools, this degree requires the completion of approximately 60 credit hours.

The curriculum covers foundational topics such as:​

• Introduction to Human Resources​
  
• Employment Law​
  
• Business Ethics
  
• Payroll Basics​
  

Career Opportunities: Graduates can pursue entry-level positions, including:​

• HR Assistant​
  
• Payroll Clerk
  
• Recruiter Assistant​
  

Who It’s Best For: This degree suits individuals seeking entry-level roles or those exploring HR before committing to a bachelor’s program.​

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Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources

A Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources is a four-year undergraduate program that provides comprehensive knowledge and skills in HR and related business areas. Depending on the institution, this degree may be offered as a Bachelor of Science (BS) or a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) with a focus on human resources.

The curriculum delves deeper into HR and business concepts, covering:​

• HR Management​
  
• Organizational Behavior
  
• Employment Law​
  
• Talent Acquisition​
  

Common Concentrations:

• HR Management​
  
• Organizational Development​
  
• Compensation & Benefits​
  
• Labor Relations​
  

Career Opportunities: Graduates can access roles such as:​

• HR Specialist​
  
• Recruiter​
  
• Benefits Coordinator​
  
• Training & Development Specialist​
  

Who It’s Best For: Ideal for individuals aiming for mid-level HR roles, corporate HR positions, or preparing for HR certifications.

Cornell University’s School of Industrial and Labor Relations offers a Bachelor of Science in Industrial and Labor Relations, providing a comprehensive education in HR and related fields. ​

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Master’s Degree in Human Resources

Master’s Degree in Human Resources is a graduate-level program designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and strategic skills in HR management. Programs typically require one to three years to complete and may result in degrees such as a Master of Science (MS) in Human Resource Management or a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a focus on HR. 

Master’s programs focus on advanced HR topics, including:​

• Strategic HR​
  
• HR Analytics​
  
• Leadership in HR​
  
• Global HR Management​
  

Common Concentrations:

• Strategic HR​
  
• HR Analytics​
  
• Diversity & Inclusion​
  
• Executive Leadership​
  

Career Opportunities: Graduates can pursue advanced positions such as:​

• HR Manager​
  
• HR Business Partner​
  
• Director of HR​
  
• Compensation Manager​
  

Who It’s Best For: Suited for mid-career HR professionals seeking advancement or leadership roles.​

University of South Carolina’s Darla Moore School of Business offers a Master of Human Resources program, emphasizing strategic and global HR management.​

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Doctorate in Human Resources (PhD or DBA)

A Doctorate in Human Resources, such as a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), is the highest academic degree in the field. These programs focus on advanced research, theoretical analysis, and policy development in HR. Doctoral studies prepare individuals for scholarly research, teaching at the university level, or high-level consultancy roles. ​

Doctoral programs emphasize research and advanced theories in HR, covering:​

• HR Theory​
  
• Research Methods
  
• Policy Development​
  
• Organizational Leadership​
  

Career Opportunities: Doctoral graduates can pursue roles such as:​

• HR Consultant​
  
• Professor​
  
• HR Executive​
  
• Researcher​
  

Who It’s Best For: Ideal for academics, researchers, or individuals aspiring to top-level HR executive positions.

Walden University offers an PhD in Management – Human Resource Management preparing graduates for scholarly research and academic careers.

Human Resources Curriculum

A well-rounded human resources curriculum combines core courses, elective courses, and practical experiences to develop the necessary skills and knowledge for HR professionals. By exploring various aspects of HR management, students can gain a comprehensive understanding of the field and prepare themselves for successful careers in human resources.

Core Courses in Human Resources Programs

Core courses in human resources programs cover essential topics in HR management, such as employee relations, talent acquisition, and training and development. These courses provide a strong foundation for students, allowing them to understand the various functions and responsibilities of HR professionals. Some common core courses include:

• Introduction to Human Resources
• Employment Law and Regulations
• Compensation and Benefits
• Performance Management
• Organizational Behavior

Elective Courses and Specializations

In addition to core courses, human resources programs often offer elective courses and specializations to help students tailor their education to their specific interests and career goals. These courses may focus on niche areas of HR management, such as diversity and inclusion, labor relations, or HR analytics. By choosing electives and specializations, students can develop expertise in areas that are particularly relevant to their desired career paths.

Human Resources Degrees vs. Other HR-Related Degrees

When exploring careers in human resources (HR), it’s helpful to understand how HR degrees compare to other related fields. Here’s a simple breakdown:

HR Degrees vs. Business Degrees with an HR Concentration

• HR Degrees: These programs focus mainly on HR topics like hiring, training, and employee relations.​
  
• Business Degrees with HR Concentration: These are broader business programs that include some HR courses. You’ll learn about various business areas such as marketing and finance, along with HR.​
  

Key Difference: An HR degree dives deep into HR subjects, while a business degree with an HR focus provides a wider business education with some HR insights.​

HR Degrees vs. Organizational Psychology Degrees

• HR Degrees: Centered on managing people and HR tasks within a company.​
  
• Organizational Psychology Degrees: Focus on understanding how employees think and behave to improve the workplace.​
  

Key Difference: HR degrees are about handling HR functions, whereas organizational psychology studies employee behavior to enhance work environments.

HR Degrees vs. Industrial Relations Degrees

• HR Degrees: Cover various HR areas like hiring, training, and benefits.​
  
• Industrial Relations Degrees: Concentrate on relationships between employers and employees, especially regarding labor unions and worker rights.​
  

Key Difference: HR degrees offer a broad view of managing employees, while industrial relations focus more on labor relations and union interactions.​

Understanding these distinctions can help you choose the educational path that aligns best with your career goals in the HR field.

Benefits of an Online Human Resources Degree

1. Flexibility & Convenience

• Study on your own schedule—great for working professionals or parents.
• Access courses 24/7, allowing you to balance work, life, and school.

2. Wider Choice of Schools

• You’re not limited to schools in your geographic area.
• You can attend a top HR program in another state without relocating.

3. Save on Costs

• No relocation or commuting expenses.
• Some schools offer lower tuition rates for online programs.
• Certain schools charge in-state tuition for online students, even if you live out of state.

4. Same Curriculum and Accreditation

• Most accredited schools offer the same curriculum and faculty for online and in-person students.
• Your degree won’t say “online”—employers typically see it as equal to an in-person degree if it’s from an accredited school.

🌎 Out-of-State Online School Benefits

If you live in one state but attend an online HR program in another, you may gain:

• Access to a stronger or more specialized program (e.g., HR degrees aligned with SHRM guidelines).
• Tuition discounts for online students, regardless of residency.
• Exposure to a broader professional network—especially valuable if you plan to relocate or work remotely after graduation.
• Potential employer recognition if the out-of-state school is well-known or has national accreditation.

⚠️ What to Watch Out For

• Confirm the school is regionally accredited.
• Check whether the program is SHRM-aligned (Society for Human Resource Management) if you’re planning to get certified.
• Make sure your state allows enrollment if the school is out-of-state (look for NC-SARA member schools).

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Program Differences and Considerations

1. State Authorization & Enrollment

• Some schools must be authorized to offer online degrees in your state (due to state regulations).
• Look for participation in NC-SARA (National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements), which allows easier out-of-state enrollment.

2. Internship or Field Experience Requirements

• Some HR programs include internships, capstone projects, or hands-on training.
  • Online students may be required to complete internships locally in their home state.
  • Be sure the school helps facilitate remote placements or offers flexibility.

3. Networking and Career Services

• Online students often get access to:
  • Virtual career fairs
  • Online mentoring or alumni networks
  • Remote resume workshops and job boards
• Some schools also have strong HR partnerships with companies in their state—so going out-of-state might help you tap into a new job market.

4. Time Zones and Class Structure

• If the program is asynchronous (learn at your own pace), you won’t need to worry about time zones.
• Synchronous courses may require you to log in at specific times, so check if your time zone aligns with the school’s schedule.

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Choosing the Right Human Resources Management Degree

Selecting an HR degree that aligns with your professional aspirations requires careful consideration of several factors:

• Career Aspirations: Identify your long-term career goals within HR to determine the level of education required. For instance, senior roles may necessitate advanced degrees.​
  
• Cost: Evaluate tuition fees and associated expenses, and consider potential return on investment based on your intended career path.​
  
• Time Commitment: Decide between full-time or part-time study options based on your personal and professional obligations.​
  
• Online vs. In-Person Programs: Assess your learning preferences and choose a format that suits your lifestyle and learning style.​
  

Best Degree Paths for Specific HR Career Goals:

• Corporate HR: A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Human Resource Management provides comprehensive knowledge suitable for various corporate HR roles.​
  
• Labor Relations: Degrees focusing on labor relations or industrial relations are ideal for careers involving union negotiations and employee relations.​
  
• HR Consulting: An MBA with a concentration in HR can equip you with both business acumen and HR expertise, essential for consulting roles.​
  

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HR Certifications

Advancing in a Human Resources (HR) career often involves obtaining certifications and participating in ongoing education. Here’s a straightforward overview:​

Popular HR Certifications

• SHRM-CP (Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional): This certification is for individuals performing HR-related duties or pursuing a career in human resources. It demonstrates expertise in operational HR management. ​
  
• SHRM-SCP (Society for Human Resource Management Senior Certified Professional): Aimed at senior-level HR professionals, this certification focuses on strategic roles in HR management.
  
• PHR (Professional in Human Resources): Offered by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI), the PHR certification signifies mastery of technical and operational aspects of HR management. ​
  
• SPHR (Senior Professional in Human Resources): Also provided by HRCI, the SPHR certification is designed for HR professionals with strategic and policy-making responsibilities.

Earning Certifications for Career Advancement

Earning HR certifications can significantly enhance your career by:

• Increasing Credibility: Certifications demonstrate a commitment to the HR profession and validate your expertise, making you more credible to employers and colleagues.
  
• Enhancing Career Opportunities: Many employers prefer or require HR certifications for advanced positions, potentially leading to promotions and higher salaries. ​
  
• Expanding Knowledge and Skills: Preparing for certification exams deepens your understanding of HR practices and keeps you updated on the latest industry trends and laws.

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Career Paths and Jobs with a Human Resources Degree

​A degree in Human Resources (HR) opens the door to a variety of career paths, each offering unique opportunities for growth and specialization. Below is an overview of potential careers at different levels within the HR field:​

Entry-Level HR Careers

These positions serve as foundational roles, providing exposure to various HR functions and setting the stage for career advancement.​

• HR Assistant: Supports the HR department by maintaining employee records, assisting in recruitment processes, and coordinating training sessions.​
  
• Recruiter: Identifies and attracts candidates for job openings, conducts interviews, and collaborates with hiring managers to fulfill staffing needs.​
  
• Payroll Coordinator: Manages employee compensation by processing payroll, ensuring compliance with tax regulations, and maintaining accurate payment records.​
  
• Benefits Specialist: Administers employee benefits programs, educates staff about available options, and ensures compliance with relevant laws and policies.​

Mid-Level HR Careers

With experience, professionals can advance to roles that involve greater responsibility and strategic involvement.​

• HR Generalist: Handles a broad range of HR tasks, including recruitment, employee relations, performance management, and compliance with labor laws.​
  
• Training and Development Manager: Designs and implements programs to enhance employee skills and career growth, aligning training initiatives with organizational goals.​
  
• Talent Acquisition Specialist: Focuses on developing strategies to attract and retain top talent, managing the full recruitment cycle, and building employer branding.​
  
• Compensation and Benefits Manager: Oversees the organization’s compensation structure and benefits programs, ensuring they are competitive and meet employee needs.​

Senior-Level HR Careers

These leadership positions involve strategic planning and decision-making at the highest levels of the organization.​

• HR Manager: Leads the HR team, develops policies, and ensures the effective implementation of HR initiatives across the organization.​
  
• HR Director: Oversees multiple HR departments, aligns HR strategies with business objectives, and advises senior management on human capital matters.​
  
• Vice President of HR: Sets the vision for the HR function, drives organizational culture initiatives, and plays a key role in executive decision-making.​
  
• Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO): Serves as the top HR executive, responsible for all aspects of human capital strategy, including talent management, organizational development, and succession planning.​

Outlook and Earning Potential for Human Resources Graduates

If you’re considering a human resources (HR) degree, you’re likely thinking about how it can help you advance or change your career. The good news is that HR professionals are in steady demand, and earning potential tends to grow with experience, certification, and education.

Job Outlook for HR Graduates

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for human resources specialists is projected to grow about 6% through 2032, which is faster than average for all occupations. For HR managers, the projected growth is around 5%, driven by the ongoing need to attract, retain, and support talent in evolving workplaces.

Companies across industries are placing increased importance on employee engagement, DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion), training and development, and compliance—all areas where HR professionals are essential.

Salary Expectations

Salary can vary depending on your level of education, experience, location, and the specific HR role you pursue. Here’s a breakdown of average annual salaries for common HR positions (BLS and PayScale data):

• Human Resources Assistant: $42,000 – $50,000
• Human Resources Specialist: $55,000 – $70,000
• Training and Development Specialist: $65,000 – $75,000
• Compensation and Benefits Analyst: $70,000 – $85,000
• Human Resources Manager: $80,000 – $130,000
• Director of Human Resources / VP of HR: $110,000 – $170,000+

Earning a bachelor’s or master’s degree in human resources—or a related field like business or organizational development—can open the door to mid- and senior-level roles with higher earning potential.

Professional certifications such as the SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, or PHR/SPHR can also boost your credibility and salary prospects, especially for adult learners transitioning into HR from another field.

Factors Influencing Earning Potential in the HR Field

Several factors can influence your earning potential in the human resources field, including your level of education, experience, and industry. Holding an advanced degree, such as a master’s in human resources or an MBA in HR, can increase your earning potential and open doors to higher-level positions. Additionally, gaining experience and building a strong track record of success in the field can lead to increased earning potential over time. Finally, certain industries, such as technology and finance, may offer higher salaries for HR professionals due to greater competition and demand for talent.

Frequently Asked Questions about Human Resources Degrees

In this section, we address some of the common questions prospective students may have about pursuing a degree in human resources, including the worth of the degree, the time required for completion, prerequisites, and potential career transitions for those with different backgrounds.

Is a Human Resources Degree Worth It?

A human resources degree can be a worthwhile investment for individuals seeking to enter or advance in the HR field. The skills and knowledge gained through a comprehensive HR curriculum can prepare you for a successful career in various industries and sectors. Additionally, the demand for skilled HR professionals continues to grow, making it an attractive field for career growth and advancement. Ultimately, the worth of a human resources degree depends on your personal career goals, interests, and commitment to the profession.

How Long Does It Take to Complete a Human Resources Degree?

The time required to complete a human resources degree varies depending on the level of education pursued. An associate degree typically takes two years, while a bachelor’s degree usually requires four years of full-time study. Master’s degrees in human resources can take an additional two years to complete. Online and part-time programs may offer more flexibility in terms of completion time, allowing students to balance their education with work and personal commitments.

What Are the Prerequisites for Pursuing a Degree in Human Resources?

Prerequisites for pursuing a degree in human resources depend on the level of education and the specific program requirements. For an associate or bachelor’s degree, applicants generally need a high school diploma or equivalent. Graduate programs may require a bachelor’s degree in a related field, along with professional experience and satisfactory performance on standardized tests such as the GRE or GMAT. It is essential to research the specific prerequisites for each program to ensure eligibility and preparedness for the coursework.

Can You Transition to a Human Resources Career with a Different Degree?

Individuals with degrees in other fields can still transition to a human resources career, as many of the skills and knowledge gained in areas such as business, psychology, and communication are transferable to HR management. However, pursuing a human resources degree or obtaining relevant certifications can enhance your credibility and expertise in the field. Networking, gaining practical experience, and staying informed about HR trends and best practices can also help facilitate a successful transition to a career in human resources.

Takeaways

A career in human resources can be rewarding, offering opportunities to work with people, solve problems, and make a real impact in a company. Choosing the right HR degree can help you get started or advance in your career.

Key takeaways from this guide:

• HR professionals play a crucial role in businesses.
  
• There are different HR degree levels, each leading to different career opportunities.
  
• Specializing in a certain area of HR can help you stand out in the job market.
  
• Your career goals should determine which HR degree you choose.

Before enrolling, make sure to research HR programs to ensure you’re getting a quality education. Consider your interests, future goals, and the types of HR jobs you’d like to have. With the right degree, you’ll be on the path to a successful and fulfilling HR career.