If I Want to Get a Human Resources Job, What Degree Should I Get?

In a world where human capital in becoming a vital component of the business, there are more human resources jobs than ever available in the job market, and making sure you get the right degree to land that job is critical.

With most mid-sized and larger organizations, you are required to have formal training and a college degree to compete for any HR openings. If your goal is to enter the expansive world of Human Resources as an entry-level or mid-level professional, the very first step to get attention during the recruiting process is to earn the right degree from the right institution. If you are wondering which degree program you should enroll in to gain entry into the HR field, know that there is not one right formal training path to take. Here are some popular options that will prepare you to be the best possible HR professional:

Undergraduate Degree Paths for Prospective HR Professionals

The minimum educational requirements of most Fortune 500 companies and respected mid-sized firms is a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field from an accredited school. The most common degree choice for students who know that they are pursuing a position in Human Resources is an undergraduate degree in Human Resources. This is because the core courses are all centered around the field and not general courses related to business.

If you have already enrolled in a Business, Public Administration, or Business Administration program, you can still succeed in the field of HR with these degrees. These degrees, while they are focused on several aspects of business, will cover many topics that are covered in a Human Resources program. It is in your best interest to focus on choosing a program that has earned a programmatic accreditation. For professionals interested in becoming a certified HR professional, accreditation is extremely important. Most employers will not even acknowledge an applicant with a degree that is not from an accredited school.

Graduate Degree Options for HR Professionals

A graduate level degree will take you up the ladder in HR, and may qualify you for supervisory roles and management roles. If you already hold a degree in Business or Human Resources, you may be interested in advancing your degree to advance your career. If you would like to become a part of management, it may be in your best interest to earn your MBA in Human Resource Management. These programs focus on teaching you the global principles of the field, how to be a leader in this specific field, and how to be a critical thinker and solve real world problems. HRM programs will focus on many different subjects including: benefits management, organizational management, employment related issues, employee retention, and global issues.

The Right Track to Your Dream Human Resources Job

Now that you know which degree programs that you should search for, the next step is finding an accredited program that delivers quality education to students. If you are looking for online programs or more traditional on-campus programs, be sure to search for those that are accredited by a reputable body. By taking your time to choose a high-quality degree path, you can walk out of school to open opportunities with only the best employers in your geographic area. Learn valuable skills, gain the knowledge you need, and then start searching for high-paying human resources jobs.