Corporations rely on human resources (HR) departments to assist with an array of tasks including hiring, benefits administration, and training. Human resources bachelor's programs can teach a wide set of skills that can be applied in different corporate structures.
Many human resources careers are expected to be increasingly in demand in the next decade. Individuals who pursue an online bachelor's in human resources can study at their own pace while they prepare to enter this growing field.
Human resources specialists may be in charge of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs within a company. DEI has seen tremendous growth in the past few years, with the number of DEI-related job advertisements growing 123% between May and September 2020, according to the GRC Global Group. Individuals interested in learning more about this fast-growing industry can read the following page to discover the best degrees, careers, and courses.
Featured Online HR Programs
Best Online Bachelor's in Human Resources Degrees
The school and/or program descriptions below were drafted using natural language generation technology and have been edited for clarity and accuracy. The data is primarily sourced from government databases such as IPEDS – see sources section for more details.
Methodology Overview
Best College Reviews ranks schools based on over a dozen factors, including academic quality, affordability, and earning potential after graduation. To accurately and objectively evaluate each school's value, we consider factors such as student retention rate, average net price, and median student debt.
Benefits of Pursuing an Online HR Degree
Students interested in pursuing a bachelor's in human resources may find online programs easier to integrate with their current lifestyle. Online degrees offer increased flexibility compared to traditional in-person programs.
Enrollees may take asynchronous courses, which allow them to complete coursework and listen to lectures anytime. HR program attendees can also use online learning to their advantage by pausing lectures to review notes or employment laws while studying.
Below are a few stand-out benefits to pursuing a degree in human resources online:
Job Availability Most organizations in the U.S. have human resources departments, which means most major cities have job opportunities for human resources specialists. Students can study from home and pursue careers in nearby cities instead of relocating around the country for job opportunities.
School Choice Online students can choose from a variety of human resources programs from any U.S. state. However, on-campus students must choose nearby schools or incur significant costs moving to another location.
Work Opportunities Enrollees who wish to earn work experience, either through a job or internship, while studying may benefit from the increased flexibility offered by online programs.
While there are many benefits to online learning (and online learning specifically for a human resources degree), prospective students should also consider the downsides. With virtual options, there can be a lack of human interaction, extracurricular activity opportunities, and face-time with professors.
Why Get a Human Resources Degree?
On-campus and online HR degrees prepare learners for many careers. Schools that offer HR degrees online prepare learners for HR specialist, recruiter, and benefits specialist roles. Experienced HR professionals who decide to earn a degree may be able to use the credential to move into managerial positions.
Many top-ranked colleges offer HR degrees online. Working students can earn their degrees while continuing their careers. Online programs also allow learners to attend the most affordable programs without relocating.
How Much Does A Human Resources Degree Cost?
Yearly Tuition Cost by School Type
In-state, Public School$9,596
Out-of-state, Public School$27,457
Private College$34,041
The cost of an HR degree varies by school and program. In-state public schools charge the lowest tuition. Students at these schools spent $9,596 in tuition and fees in 2021-2022, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Out-of-state students paid $27,457. Private colleges charge the highest tuition, averaging about $34,041 per year. Full-time students can earn their bachelor's degrees in four years. Part-time learners may take longer. Students in these programs complete general education, business, and HR courses.
While students generally save money by studying online, they should still budget for books, supplies, and other costs. Some online colleges charge technology and graduation fees, and learners must have reliable computer and internet access. Some schools offering HR degrees online require in-person visits. Students should plan for transportation and housing costs if their programs include on-site components. Learners can request an estimated total cost of attendance to create a budget.
What Is the Job and Salary Outlook for Online HR Graduates?
Human resources graduates may pursue roles as general HR employees or specialists. HR generalists can assist with onboarding and training, while specialist roles may focus on labor relations, benefits and compensation, or employee safety. Corporations may require human resources job applicants to have a bachelor's degree, certifications, or an advanced degree. Individuals who pursue additional education may have opportunities for career advancement or the ability to apply for the highest-paying HR jobs.
Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists
Compensation, benefits, and job analysis specialists help organize and oversee monetary and non-monetary compensation for employees. These specialists may classify employees, identify competitive wages, and present recommendations to managers. Specialists should have the ability to research, calculate total benefits costs, and ensure compliance with local and federal laws.
Required Education:Bachelor's degree
Job Outlook (2022-2032): 7%
Median Annual Salary: $67,780
Source: BLS
Human Resources Specialists
Human resources employees may handle multiple tasks including assisting with new hires, employee training, and employee relations. HR specialists should feel confident interviewing people, conducting background checks, and keeping detailed records. Employers can communicate with HR professionals to identify various corporate needs and outstanding tasks.
Required Education:Bachelor's degree
Job Outlook (2022-2032): 6%
Median Annual Salary: $64,240
Source: BLS
Training and Development Specialists
Training and development specialists work with employees to run programs designed to increase employee productivity, knowledge, or skills. These HR professionals may discuss training needs with managers and employees, then design and enact a plan to achieve training goals. Training specialists may need to research programs, compare costs, and assist with evaluating training results.
Required Education: Bachelor's degree
Job Outlook (2022-2032): 6%
Median Annual Salary: $63,080
Source: BLS
Human Resources Managers
Human resources managers oversee a company's backend tasks and HR department. Managers may interact with employees, corporate managers, and administrators to consult on internal issues, corporate needs, and employee benefits. Corporations may require human resources managers to advise on sensitive human resources issues including sexual harassment and discrimination.
Required Education: Bachelor's degree
Job Outlook (2022-2032): 5%
Median Annual Salary: $130,000
Source: BLS
How Long Does It Take to Earn an HR Degree Online?
Online human resources bachelor's programs usually require enrollees to earn 120 credits to graduate, which takes approximately four years. Schools may allow up to 90 transfer credits. Enrollees can take a mixture of core, general education, and elective courses. Major courses may take anywhere from 36-69 credit hours.
Some schools allow students to take courses asynchronously and at their own pace. Attendees in these programs have the opportunity to earn an HR degree in under four years. Students who prefer a structured approach can find an institution that offers classes synchronously, with live lectures and scheduled course times.
Courses in Human Resources
Learners pursuing an online HR degree develop analytical, decision-making, and communication skills. Students typically take courses in labor relations, organizational communication, and employment law. Many programs include management and leadership training.
Degree-seekers complete general education requirements, core business classes, and electives. Students can specialize their degree with courses in compensation and benefits or training and development.
Read below for common HR courses.
Human Resources Management This course introduces students to the field's key principles. Learners study workplace diversity and employment law while exploring research-based practices for managing organizational needs. This class prepares enrollees for advanced HR coursework.
Labor Relations In this class, students examine various labor relations topics, including the history of organized labor and collective bargaining. The class also analyzes labor relations from an HR perspective.
Employment Law for Business Employment laws govern the legal relationship between employees and employers. In this course, students learn about key laws and regulations, including the employer's hiring, compensation, and termination obligations. Learners also explore workplace discrimination protections and privacy laws.
Admission Requirements for Online HR Degree Programs
Schools have various requirements for accepting incoming students, but applicants must usually meet the prerequisites in this section. All prospective enrollees should hold a high school diploma or equivalent.
Applicants should start the process by submitting an online application, either through a school's website or via the Common App. The Common App, used by over 1,000 schools, allows students to fill out a single application online, which can then be used at multiple institutions. Institutions may offer free applications or charge a fee.
Most program applications require individuals to submit official transcripts. Institutions may also ask for official test scores, personal essays, letters of recommendation, and/or a resume.
Choosing the Right Online Human Resources Degree Program
Individuals considering pursuing a degree in human resources must consider multiple variables, including cost, curriculum, and institutional prestige. The following list introduces important factors to consider when choosing potential programs.
Accreditation Individuals should ensure their school has received accreditation from a reputable accrediting agency. Accredited schools demonstrate to employers and future schools that a graduate's education meets certain standards.
Staff credentials/diversity Professors with a rich history of working in the industry may offer better insights and real-world examples. Applicants can review a program's professors, their credentials, and their work experience.
Cost/financial aid Applicants should check a program's total cost as tuition can vary greatly between schools. Students may also be eligible for scholarships, grants, or loans to offset tuition.
Internship/research opportunities Schools may have institutional partners that offer internships for work experience or credits. Individuals interested in learning both at school and in a corporate setting can check a school's internship or research opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Human Resources Programs
What kind of degree do you need for HR?
HR specialists typically must have a bachelor's degree to work in HR, but the specific field is less important. Students who hope to work in HR can benefit from a degree in an area such as human resources, business, or communication. For management roles, some employers prefer candidates with a master's degree.
Is an online HR degree as valuable as a traditional on-campus degree?
Yes, online and on-campus HR degrees are equally valuable. Both programs teach the same curriculum, require the same amount of credits, and issue equivalent degrees. Degrees earned from online programs do not state they were earned online.
Do you need a degree in human resources to work in HR?
No. HR departments hire candidates with degrees in fields such as business, psychology, and communication. However, an HR degree offers the most focused coursework for HR careers.
Is human resources a growing field?
Yes. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects jobs for human resources specialists to grow 6% between 2022 and 2032. The BLS projects jobs for human resources managers to grow 5% during the same period.
