Learn human resources

Possessing human resources skills can help you at any point in your career, regardless of whether you work directly in human resources.

If you want to develop your human resource skills, continue reading to discover what flexible learning opportunities may be best for you and your goals.

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What is human resources?

Human resources (HR) involves overseeing the management of a company or organization's workforce. The core philosophy of human resources is to bridge the gap between employer and employee to facilitate a safe, welcoming, and productive work environment.

Typical responsibilities include managing employee benefits, resolving conflict, overseeing hiring and terminations, training employees, and ensuring compliance with labor regulations. HR professionals often utilize human resource management software and platforms to accomplish tasks.

Some of the more popular job opportunities in HR include human resources coordinator, human resources manager, recruiter, director of human resources, and benefits administrator.

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Choosing the right human resources program for you

Consider the following when choosing which human resources program is right for you:

Stage of your career: If you are brand new to human resources, you may be interested in an introductory course or starting a bachelor's degree program. Working professionals may consider earning a certification or even pursuing an advanced degree that builds on existing knowledge.
Skills you want to learn: Determine what you'd like to learn and find the applicable education program. If you're unsure or looking for the most complete education, bachelor's degree programs in human resources may be the right starting point. If you want to learn about a niche subject, a course or certification program may be the right fit.
Time availability: If you just graduated high school and are looking to earn a degree, consider a bachelor's program. If you are a manager balancing work with education, an executive education course could be a great fit.

Here are several different educational paths to consider.

Courses

An online course in HR can provide you with an introduction to the field or refine a specific skill that you'd like to improve. Examples of online human resource courses include payroll management, compensation and benefits, and conflict resolution.

Certifications

Earning a certification in human resources is a tangible way to demonstrate your knowledge and expertise to employers. Examples of popular human resource certifications include SHRM Certified Professional, Global Professional in Human Resources®, and Certified Staffing Professional®.

Executive education programs

For existing human resource professionals, executive education programs offer a unique way to learn within the time constraints of your current career. Examples of executive education programs in human resources include Digital Transformations in HR, Executive Management and Coaching, and Leading Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.

Degrees

For the most complete education in human resources, you can look at bachelor's or master's degree opportunities. A bachelor's degree is a requirement for many popular HR jobs and is a great starting place if you are certain you want to pursue a career in this field.

Jobs in human resources

Any business or organization that manages people needs HR services. Here are a few popular HR positions you can pursue after completing the relevant education:

Human resources specialist

Human resources specialists administer HR services to employees on behalf of an organization. These professionals may handle recruiting, interviewing, and onboarding new hires, as well as managing employee benefits and ensuring that employees follow HR policies.

Required education: Bachelor’s degree
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) median annual salary (2023):$67,650

Human resources manager

Human resources managers oversee HR functions for an entire organization or department. They may manage other HR specialists. This job typically requires at least five years of experience in the field.

Required education: Bachelor’s degree
BLS median annual salary (2023):$136,350

Labor relations specialist

Labor relations specialists build and maintain positive relationships between employers and employees, sometimes through representatives of a labor union. Typical tasks include training, negotiating contracts, resolving employee and manager disputes, resolving conflict, and developing policies.

Required education: Bachelor’s degree
BLS median annual salary (2023):$89,980

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Frequently asked questions

What is the value of learning human resource skills?

Human resources is an integral part of a business or organization's success. Understanding the skills required to manage employee and employer relationships can help you become a better employee and facilitate a better work environment.

How long does it take to learn human resources?

Courses, executive education opportunities, and certification programs can teach aspects of human resources in a few weeks or months. A bachelor's degree in human resources, the minimum requirement for most HR roles, typically takes four years of full-time study to complete.

What is the difference between human resources and employee relations?

The difference between human resources and employee relations is that employee relations is a specialized area within human resources that focuses specifically on maintaining positive interactions between employers and employees. Human resources typically covers a broader range of workforce management functions.