What Can You Do With a Human Resources Degree?

Have you ever wondered what doors a human resources (HR) degree can open for you? In today's business world, HR is so much more than just hiring and firing. It's about shaping company culture, driving employee engagement, and being a strategic partner in the business.

With a degree in HR, your career options are incredibly diverse. You could dive into labor relations, specialize in talent acquisition, or even aim for a top executive role. This article will take you through the exciting career paths you can pursue with an HR degree, the skills you'll gain, and how they apply in the real world.

Think of an HR degree as not just learning about people but also getting a deep understanding of business itself. Let's dive in and see how an HR degree can launch you into a fulfilling career where you can make a real impact!

Understanding human resources

At its core, human resources management (HRM) is all about managing people within an organization. But it's more than handling payroll or arranging team-building exercises. HRM involves strategically managing employees so that they help the business achieve its wider goals.

One key area of HRM is labor relations. This involves navigating the complex relationship between management and the workforce. It's not just about negotiating contracts or resolving disputes; it's also about fostering a positive, productive environment where both the company and its employees thrive.

Another critical aspect is employee relations. This goes beyond managing conflicts; it's about building a strong, communicative relationship between the organization and its people. It's HR's job to ensure employees feel heard, valued, and fairly treated.

HR also plays a significant role in shaping organizational behavior. This means understanding how people work individually and in groups and using this knowledge to create a harmonious and efficient workplace. HR professionals work closely with management to develop strategies that align employee behavior with the company's goals.

Strategic planning in HR involves looking ahead, anticipating changes in the business environment, and preparing the workforce to meet these challenges. It's about understanding the big picture and positioning the human element of the business to succeed today and well into the future.

HR is the bridge between an organization's workforce and its strategic objectives. It's about nurturing a work environment where both employees and the business can flourish together.

The human resources management degree path

Embarking on the journey toward a career in human resources begins with the right academic program. Whether you opt for a Bachelor's degree program or a Master's degree in HR, each path offers its unique blend of coursework, experiences, and opportunities. You'll typically find these types of programs at business schools. 

Starting with an undergraduate degree (usually a Bachelor of Science) in the human resources field, you'll dive into the fundamentals of business and people management. Courses typically cover topics like organizational behavior, employment law, ethics, and even psychology. This degree lays the foundation for understanding the complexities of managing a workforce in various business environments.

For those looking to take their expertise a notch higher, a Master's degree in HR goes deeper. Here, you'll encounter advanced concepts in strategic HR management, global HR practices, and leadership. Those aiming for higher-level positions or specialized roles in the field often pursue this degree.

Accreditation plays a crucial role in your HR educational journey. It ensures the quality and relevance of your program, making your degree recognized and respected by employers. Attending an accredited program also opens doors to better networking opportunities, resources, and sometimes even necessary certifications.

Internships are an invaluable part of the HR degree path. They offer real-world experience, allowing you to apply your classroom knowledge in practical settings. Internships can lead to full-time human resource specialist positions and provide a platform for networking and professional growth.

Core competencies and skills acquired

A human resources degree equips you with a comprehensive skill set essential for the modern workplace:

• Problem-solving. Learn to address complex challenges in the workplace with effective, innovative solutions.
• Decision-making. Discover how to make smart choices while considering both ethics and the organization's objectives.
• Understanding employment law. Gain a thorough understanding of labor laws and compliance to ensure a fair and legally sound workplace.
• Performance management. Acquire skills in assessing and enhancing employee performance, vital for their growth and the organization's success.
• Training and development. Master the art of designing and implementing effective training programs that align with organizational needs and employee growth.
• Change management. Learn how to effectively manage and facilitate organizational change, a vital skill in today's fast-paced business environment.
• Information systems. Understand the role of HR information systems in managing employee data, streamlining HR processes, and supporting strategic decision-making.

These skills are necessary for a well-rounded human resource professional, preparing you to handle various aspects of human resources with confidence and competence.

Career opportunities with an HR degree

An HR degree opens the door to many career paths, from entry-level positions to high-ranking executive roles. Let's explore some of the exciting opportunities awaiting HR graduates.

Entry-level positions:

• HR assistant. Start your career by supporting HR functions such as recruitment, staffing, payroll, and employee relations.
• Recruitment coordinator. Focus on talent acquisition, from posting job ads to coordinating interviews.
• Training and development specialist. Help organize and manage employee training and professional development programs.

Mid-level roles:

• HR generalist. A versatile role managing various HR functions, including hiring, enrollment, training, and policy implementation.
• Employee relations or HR specialist. Address employee concerns, mediate disputes, and work toward a positive workplace environment.
• Compensation and benefits manager. Specialize in designing and managing employee compensation and benefits packages.

Senior positions:

• HR manager/director. Oversee the entire HR department, strategizing on HR policies and workforce management.
• Talent acquisition manager. Lead recruitment efforts and develop strategies to attract top talent.
• Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO). As a top executive, you'll shape HR strategies at the highest level, aligning them with organizational goals.

Industry-specific roles:

• Health care HR manager. Specialize in HR functions within health care settings, understanding specific industry needs and regulations.
• Tech industry talent specialist. Focus on recruiting and retaining talent in the fast-paced tech industry.
• Nonprofit HR coordinator. Adapt HR practices to the unique environment and needs of nonprofit organizations.

With an HR degree, you're not limited to traditional HR roles. You can venture into consulting, become an HR tech software specialist, or even start your own HR-related business. The skills you acquire through your degree are versatile and in high demand, paving the way for a dynamic and rewarding career.

The role of SHRM and HR certifications

In the world of human resources, professional development and certifications, particularly from the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), play a significant role in career advancement.

Boosting career prospects with SHRM:

• Credibility. SHRM certification is highly respected in the HR field, providing a mark of excellence and expertise.
• Knowledge update. It ensures that HR professionals are up-to-date with the latest in HR management, including trends, laws, and best practices.
• Career advancement. SHRM-certified professionals often move up to higher positions more easily because employers see this certification as proof of their abilities and knowledge.

Other key HR certifications:

• Professional in Human Resources (PHR). Ideal for those aiming to to show their expertise in the practical and functional areas of HR management.
• Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR). Tailored for senior HR professionals, focusing on strategy and policy-making.
• Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR). For HR professionals involved in global HR operations.

Having these certifications can be a game-changer. They validate your expertise and show your commitment to staying relevant in a dynamic field. Employers often seek candidates with these credentials for key HR roles, making them a valuable addition to your professional toolkit. Whether you're starting your career or looking to climb higher, these certifications can significantly boost your prospects.

Job market and salary expectations

The job market and salary expectations for those with an HR degree are pretty promising, as detailed by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Human Resources Specialists:

• Job growth outlook (2022-2032). The number of HR specialist jobs is predicted to increase by 6%, quicker than the average for all jobs. This increase is due to the continuous need for businesses to find, interview, and employ new employees.
• Employment numbers. There were about 874,500 HR specialist jobs in 2022.
• Salary. As of May 2022, the median salary for HR specialists was $64,240. The lowest 10% earned less than $39,340, and the highest 10% earned more than $116,060.
• Industry variations. Salaries varied across industries, with those in professional, scientific, and technical services earning a median of $77,460, and those in health care and social assistance earning $58,920.

Human Resources Managers:

• Job growth outlook (2022-2032). The employment of HR managers is projected to grow by 5%, also faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is partly driven by the need for companies to adhere to changing and complex employment laws.
• Employment numbers. There were about 191,600 HR manager jobs in 2022.
• Salary. In May 2022, the average yearly salary for HR managers was notably high at $130,000. The highest-paid in this position could earn over $224,360, whereas those on the lower end made less than $76,610.
• Industry variations. HR managers in professional, scientific, and technical services earned the highest median wages at $153,830, followed by those in management of companies and enterprises at $144,640.

These statistics underline the robust demand and lucrative potential for careers in human resources. The field offers various roles, from specialists to managerial positions, and competitive salaries that reflect the importance and complexity of HR functions in modern organizations.

The gateway to a rewarding HR career

Earning a Human Resources degree opens the door to many satisfying career paths in the business world. HR professionals are essential in any organization, from recruitment and employee relations to strategic planning and change management. The versatility of an HR degree allows for career paths ranging from specialist roles to high-level management positions, each contributing significantly to the success of their organizations.

For those looking to embark on or advance in an HR career, College Rover is an invaluable resource. It offers comprehensive information to help you explore educational programs, certifications, and career opportunities in HR. College Rover resources can guide you toward the right academic programs and professional development opportunities, laying the foundation for a rewarding career in human resources.