Explore Human Resources Degree Programs
Human resources plays a vital role in every organization, managing employee relations, recruitment, training, compensation, benefits, and workplace culture. Earning a degree in human resources can open doors to a variety of careers helping organizations attract, retain, and develop top talent.
Whether you are just beginning your education or advancing your professional skills, there are human resources programs available at the certification, associate, bachelor’s, and master’s levels. Flexible online options are also available to help meet the needs of working adults and career changers.
Human Resources Careers and Salaries
Graduates with a degree or certification in human resources can qualify for a wide range of positions. Common careers include:
- Human Resources Specialist
- Recruitment Coordinator
- Employee Relations Specialist
- Compensation and Benefits Analyst
- Training and Development Specialist
- Human Resources Manager
- Director of Human Resources
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for human resources specialists was $64,240 in 2023. Human resources managers earned a median annual salary of $130,000. Salaries can vary based on education, certification, experience, and geographic location.
How Long Does It Take to Earn a Human Resources Degree?
- Certification: 3 to 12 months depending on the program and preparation time.
- Associate Degree: Approximately 2 years of full-time study.
- Bachelor’s Degree: Approximately 4 years of full-time study.
- Master’s Degree: Approximately 1.5 to 2 years of full-time study beyond the bachelor’s degree.
Online and part-time options may extend the time needed to complete a program, but they also provide more flexibility for working students.
Human Resources Certification Programs
Certification programs validate your knowledge and skills and can help you stand out in the HR field. Popular certifications include the PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, and SHRM-SCP. Certifications can often be completed in less than a year and are recognized by employers across industries. Visit our Human Resources Certification Programs page to learn more.
Human Resources Associate Degree Programs
An associate degree provides foundational knowledge in human resources management, business operations, and workforce planning. Graduates can qualify for entry-level HR roles or continue their education toward a bachelor’s degree. Programs typically take two years to complete. For more information, visit our Human Resources Associate Degree Programs page.
Human Resources Bachelor’s Degree Programs
A bachelor’s degree prepares students for a variety of professional HR positions, including specialist and management roles. Coursework often covers employment law, compensation structures, organizational behavior, and talent development strategies. Most full-time students complete a bachelor’s degree in four years. Learn more on our Human Resources Bachelor’s Degree Programs page.
Human Resources Master’s Degree Programs
A master’s degree is ideal for HR professionals seeking senior leadership roles or specialization in areas like labor relations, HR analytics, or organizational change. Many master’s programs also align with SHRM certification standards. Full-time students typically complete a master’s degree in one and a half to two years. Visit our Human Resources Master’s Degree Programs page for more details.
Online Human Resources Degree Programs
Online human resources degree programs offer the flexibility to earn your certification, associate, bachelor’s, or master’s degree on a schedule that fits your life. Online programs are available from accredited colleges and universities and provide the same high-quality education as in-person programs. Explore your options on our Online Human Resources Degree Programs page.
Start Your Human Resources Education
A degree or certification in human resources can open doors to rewarding career opportunities across industries. Use our site to explore accredited HR programs, learn more about different education levels, and find the right program to match your career goals and schedule.