By Leslie A. Weatherly
Faculty Member, Human Resources at American Public University
Making a decision to return to school is often difficult for aspiring human resources (HR) professionals. Perhaps the most complex variable in the equation is identifying which program makes sense for you; a wide number of factors must be considered to ensure the best possible return on investment in time, effort, and money.
Factors to Consider
First and foremost, ensure that the educational institutions that you evaluate have accredited programs in good standing.
Second, know your goals. Today, the majority of HR positions require a bachelor’s degree. There are four basic HR degree programs: associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate. In addition, a variety of academic and professional certification programs are available. Set both short and long-term goals so you can pick the academic path that supports them, both in the moment, and in relation to your long-term career plans.
HR Degree Programs
As a rule, HR degree programs involve core course requirements, with a sub-set of credits dedicated to electives. Students interested in specializing in a particular aspect of HR are able to do so by concentrating elective coursework in a particular field of study, such as an HR Generalist curriculum, or a specialist curriculum, such as recruitment and selection, employment, compensation and benefits, or organizational development.
HR College/University Certificate Programs
HR certificate programs are offered in a variety of formats that include pre-bachelor’s degrees, post-bachelor’s degrees, pre-master’s degrees, and standalone certificate programs. The advantage of certificate programs is that the student is able to obtain a credential while in the midst of a larger degree program. Certificates can also serve as a supplement to another field of study; for example a business administration major can complete a concentration in HR.
HR Certification Programs
HR certification programs demonstrate a life-long career commitment as well as expertise in a specific body of knowledge. To become certified, you must meet strict professional experience and educational requirements and take an exam. Certification holders must recertify at periodic intervals designated by the association. Preparation for certification programs is available through independent study, association sponsored workshops, and local association chapter programs.
HR Career Options
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational outlook handbook, the employment of human resources specialists is expected to grow 21 percent from 2010 to 2020, faster than the average for all occupations. Graduates with a bachelor’s degree have the best prospects, as do seasoned HR professionals with a combination of experience and education.
HR Associations Connect with HR professionals through leading HR associations:
The American Society for Training & Development (ASTD) is the world’s largest association dedicated to the training and development profession.
IPMA HR, the leading public sector human resource organization in the world, promotes continuous learning, excellence, and leadership in the public sector.
The National Human Resources Association (NHRA) supports human resource professionals throughout their careers through professional networking programs and development services.
The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) is the single largest association in the world dedicated to human resource management.
WorldatWork is a global community for professionals who work to attract, motivate, and retain talent.
HR Websites
Several websites provide more information about the human resources field.
- The About.com Guide to Human Resources offers information on employing people, managing people, and succeeding at work. Other site features include a regularly updated blog, online forum, and a weekly newsletter.
- HumanResources.com provides quality resources to aspiring and current HR professionals. You can find information about education, job opportunities, and career management.
- HR.com – is a human resources social network offering a free forum, job listings, webcasts, and career information.
About the Author:
Leslie A. Weatherly, MHRM, SPHR is a Senior HR Generalist with over 25 years of executive management experience in human resources, organizational development, and business administration. She holds a master’s in Human Resources Management, and a certificate in Total Quality Management from Marymount University. She is currently working on her dissertation for a doctorate in general psychology, with a concentration in organizational and industrial psychology, from Walden University. She is a member of the full-time faculty at American Public University.
Comments are closed.