Human resource career opportunities exist at all levels, from entry-level to high-level positions. People who work in the HR department cover various job duties, depending on the level of their career. A degree in human resources focuses on various key issues.
What Is Human Resources?
Human resource is a term used to describe an organizational function which manages the resources and people working in a company. Professionals working in this department are responsible for working on the development and management of the employees. An HR person is also responsible for recruiting and training new employees.
What Degree Do You Need for Human Resources?
Associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees are available in human resources. To find a job in a Human Resource department, candidates are at least required to have an associate’s degree. This will help them to work at entry-level positions. However, those who have a bachelor’s or a master’s degree are preferred as they have additional knowledge.
What Can You Do with A Degree in Human Resources?
People with different personalities work in this field. However, they may choose a specific department that relates to their personality and interest. These professionals usually have an extrovert personality type and are fond of communication. Most of them are supposed to work from an office; however, with the advent of technology, some of them prefer to work from home. These professionals need to understand what drives their fellow employees.
The following are some of the options for HR degree graduates, with information being obtained from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Compensation and Benefits Managers
Compensation and benefits managers develop, plan, and oversee various programs to pay employees. They are responsible for supervising and coordinating the activities of the staff. They also prepare a budget and work within it.
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | $122,270 | |
| Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | 3% | |
| Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | $134,210 | |
| State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | New York | 1,550 |
| State with the Highest Salary, 2019 | New Jersey | $188,710 |
Training and Development Specialists
These specialists organize and administer programs that improve the skills of employees and train them as well. They figure out training needs through various techniques, including interviews, surveys, or consultation with instructors or managers.
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | $61,210 | |
| Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | 9% | |
| Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | $65,640 | |
| State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | California | 29,600 |
| State with the Highest Salary, 2019 | District of Columbia | $80,570 |
Management Analysts
Management analysts work on updating the efficiency of an organization. They suggest different ways to improve efficiency and revenue by reducing costs.
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | $85,260 | |
| Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | 14% | |
| Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | $95,560 | |
| State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | California | 103,970 |
| State with the Highest Salary, 2019 | New York | $112,280 |
What to Expect from a Human Resource Degree?
A degree in human resources is focused on imparting knowledge which helps students in their professional life. Some programs offer a degree in human resources while others offer a specialization in a specific area as well. Employment law, organizational training, recruitment, conflict resolution, workplace psychology, etc. are some of the courses included in this program. Some programs also require students to complete an internship or a dissertation.
How to Choose a Human Resource Degree?
These are some of the things you should consider before choosing a program:
- Choose an accredited program
- Check if they are offering any specialization
- Check if scholarships are being offered
- The time and cost to finish the degree
- A campus-based or online program
Human Resource Degree Admission Requirements
Students who wish to pursue a bachelor’s degree in human resources are required to have a good SAT score, minimum GPA, and a letter of recommendation at least. While those who want to obtain a master’s degree need to have a good GRE score along with a bachelor’s degree. Admission requirements would vary from university to university.