What Degree Do You Need for Human Resources Careers & Advancement?

People. They’re the “secret sauce” behind every successful organization in the world. And despite the growth of artificial intelligence (AI), technological advances and the prevalence of remote work, companies still need people to help them innovate and advance their businesses.

Of course, finding, recruiting and retaining these people is the job of the human resources (HR) professional. Because they act as the go-between for companies and their employees, human resources remains a relevant, growing and in-demand career. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics jobs for human resources managers is expected to grow 7% between now and 2031, which is slightly higher than the job outlook for all occupations.

Because human resources is a pivotal function to the success of every organization, it makes for an interesting, changing and extremely stable career for HR professionals.

But how do you gain the specific skills you need to work across or specialize in these functions? That’s where a degree in human resources comes in. If you’re looking to break into the human resources field, or already work in HR yet want to get ahead, this article can help you determine which human resources degree is right for you.

What is a Human Resources Degree?

A human resources degree can prepare you to execute important people-related functions within an organization. With an HR degree you’ll gain foundational understanding of all aspects of workforce planning, including attracting and retaining talent.

You’ll study market- and industry-leading topics, ranging from principles of management to business law to marketing. And, with a high-quality program, you’ll also develop skills that are aligned with the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM) curriculum guidebook.

What Type of HR Degree Should I Get?

You may be wondering if you need an associate, bachelor’s or master’s in human resources. The answer really depends on the role you’re interested in and the employer you want to work with.

Just keep in mind that as competition for talent continues to increase and processes like benefits administration get more complicated, companies need professionals who are trained in industry best practices.

Here’s a look at different HR degrees and certifications, and the professionals who are best suited for each path.

1. Associate in Human Resources

• Who: If you’re looking for a quick way to jumpstart your HR career, an associate degree can help you get your foot in the door.
• Why: An associate degree in human resources will prepare you for entry-level positions in the human resources field where you provide general administrative support.
• How: An associate degree in human resources is a two-year degree that typically requires 60 credit hours. This degree program can prepare you for entry-level positions with HR. You’ll learn the fundamentals and practices of the HR function so you can provide general administrative support. You may be able to transition from an associate to a bachelor’s degree, depending on the college or university you choose for your human resources degree.
• Number of U.S. Completions in 2021: 1,092 (Lightcast)

2. Bachelor’s in Human Resources

• Who: If you have little to no professional experience and are looking to make HR your career, a bachelor’s degree in human resources could be right for you. An HR bachelor’s is also ideal for you if you already have an associate degree and want to take your HR career to the next level.
• Why: A bachelor’s degree can give you the opportunity to earn a higher starting salary and put you on the path for career advancement as you gain more professional experience.
• How: A bachelor’s in human resources management is typically a four-year degree that requires approximately 124 credit hours with coursework designed to build both broad-based and specialized knowledge and skills in human resources. A B.S. in Human Resources degree program will enable you to translate fundamental concepts into real-world application. You’ll learn how hiring decisions are made, how to develop and implement professional development programs, what the best practices are for resolving conflict and what’s behind creating compensation and benefits packages.
• Number of U.S. Completions in 2021: 11,393 (Lightcast)

Pro Tip: To make the most of your investment in yourself and your HR career, look for an HR degree program that fully aligns with the Society for Human Resource Management's (SHRM) HR Curriculum Guidebook and Templates.

3. Master’s in Human Resources

• Who: If you’ve been working in HR for a while and want to advance to a management or executive level, a master’s degree could be your next best career move. An HR master’s also is a great option if you want to move into the field of human resources but have professional experience in another field.
• Why: A master’s degree can help you move into a more strategic role or leadership position.
• How: You could complete a master’s degree in human resource in about 14 months with approximately 36 credit hours. An M.S. in Human Resource Management is designed to equip you to be a human resources leader and a strategic partner at the executive level. Because the coursework is advanced, you can expect to develop and strengthen your collaboration, problem solving and critical thinking skills within the HR function.
• Number of U.S. Completions in 2021: 9,377 (Lightcast)

What matters most when choosing a master’s program? Compare features, benefits and cost to find the right school for you.

Do I Need an HR Certification?

If you’re wondering if you need to add a human resources certification to your resume to get a job or a promotion, the short answer is: no–but it can help.

When you earn an HR certification, you demonstrate to your employer (and yourself) that you’ve mastered the aspects of HR that bring added value to any organization. Plus, from a salary standpoint, professional certifications in human resources can really boost your pay.

There are several different certifications in HR with these three being among the most popular:

1. SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP): Validate your knowledge with the global standard. This certification shows that you understand the behavioral competencies required to effectively apply your HR knowledge in support of organizational goals.

2. Professional in Human Resources (PHR®): Advance your knowledge and your career with the PHR. This professional certification demonstrates your competencies within both the technical and operational aspects of HR management, including U.S. laws and regulations.

3. Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR®): Showcase your expertise in multinational HR with the GPHR. This certification is evidence of your ability to strategize and develop human resources policies and initiatives that support global growth.

What Can You Do with a Human Resources Degree?

Some HR professionals choose to follow a career path as an HR generalist. This means they look for job opportunities that let them be involved within every function of human resources. Other HR professionals choose to follow a more specialized career path that lets them take on roles dedicated to a specific HR function.

No matter which career path you choose, there are plenty of opportunities from entry level to top executive. Here’s a look at the most popular jobs and their median annual salaries, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook.

Training & Development Specialist

Training and development specialists plan and administer training programs to help improve the skills and knowledge of associates.

• Requires a Bachelor’s in Human Resources or Organizational Development
• Median Annual Salary: $61,570

HR Specialist

Human resource specialists are trained in all facets of human resources and perform tasks throughout all areas of the department—from recruiting to onboarding and benefits to compensation.

• Requires a Bachelor’s in HR, Business or Related Field
• Median Annual Salary: $62,290

Compensation, Benefits & Job Analyst Specialist

These specialists research compensation and benefits policies and plan, overseeing both wage and non-wage programs.

• Requires Bachelor’s in HR
• Median Annual Salary: $64,120

Training & Development Manager

Training and development managers work to ensure that employees develop the skills and knowledge required to excel at their jobs.

• Requires a Bachelor’s in HR, Business, Communications or Related Field
• Median Annual Salary: $120,130

HR Manager

Human resource managers plan and direct the administrative functions of an organization. They oversee the department and contribute to strategic planning, serving as a link between an organization’s executive management and its employees.

• Requires a Bachelor’s in HR and Sometimes a Master’s
• Median Annual Salary: $126,230

Compensation & Benefits Manager

Compensation and benefits managers plan, develop, and oversee programs to compensate employees—from salaries and bonuses to healthcare, retirement and life insurance.

• Requires a Bachelor’s in HR, Business or Related Field
• Median Annual Salary: $127,530

Chief Executive (VP of Human Resources, Chief People Officer)

Chief executives are responsible for shaping and directing the HR function by setting policies, monitoring legal compliance for workplace regulations, and leading a team of other HR professionals.

• Requires a Bachelor’s or Master’s in Human Resources
• Median Annual Salary: $179,520
   

Planning Your Future Career in Human Resources

While many fields are slowing down, HR isn’t one of them.

So, whether you’re just getting started in human resources or looking to take your HR career to the next level, an associate degree in HR, a B.S. in Human Resources Management, or an M.S. in Human Resource Management can help you develop valuable, real-world skills that hiring managers, employers and business owners are looking for.

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