Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources Management: Online Degree

To operate effectively, organizations need qualified, motivated personnel. A human resources manager plays an important part in maintaining a cooperative, successful relationship between a company and its employees. Read on to learn about online bachelor's degree programs in human resources management. Schools offering Human Resource Management degrees can also be found in these popular choices.

Why Should I Pursue an Online Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources Management?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that a bachelor's degree is common for entry into the human resources field (www.bls.gov). The BLS also states that many schools don't offer human resources degree programs at the undergraduate level. This holds true for online and on-campus programs.

Though online master's degree programs in human resources management far outnumber online bachelor's degree programs, there are some programs available, and human resources management is commonly offered as a specialization in undergraduate business degree programs.

Both on-campus and online programs can help you gain insight into how a human resource department functions, including its responsibilities and its relationship to the larger corporate structure. In general, programs are designed so that you become well-versed in all aspects of managing a workforce.

What Are Some Program Details?

To earn a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Business Administration in Human Resources Management, you must accumulate approximately 120-124 credits. A full-time program usually takes four years to complete. Typical core courses include recruitment and selection, compensation and benefits, human resources ethics and law, labor relations, finance, organizational behavior and human resources information systems. Additionally, you'll take up to 60 credits of general education courses. You also might be required to complete a capstone course that illustrates your ability to apply principles to practice.

What Is the Employment and Salary Outlook?

The BLS projected that overall employment opportunities for human resources, training and labor relations managers and specialists could increase 22% from 2008-2018. In 2010, the median wage for human resources managers was $99,180.

While not required, certification could enhance your employment and advancement possibilities. Three years of work experience could qualify you to sit for the American Society for Training and Development's Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP) exam (www.astd.org). A bachelor's degree and two years of work experience could qualify you to sit for the Professional in Human Resources (PHR) exam, offered by the HR Certification Institute (www.hrci.org).

To continue researching, browse degree options below for course curriculum, prerequisites and financial aid information. Or, learn more about the subject by reading the related articles below:

  • 1. Degree Options:

Popular Schools