Looking to enhance your understanding of human resources and build your credentials without spending years in school? If you already have a background or degree in human resources, then a certificate in human resource management may be ideal for you.
Specifically, a certificate in human resource management could help you gain a better understanding of the roles and responsibilities involved in the HR field, including work related to human resource specialists and managers. Discover how an online certificate course in human resource management could allow you to advance your education without putting your professional life on hold.
Tips for Selecting the Ideal Online HR Certificate Program
If you are thinking about enrolling in an HR certificate program at the undergraduate level, there are several factors to consider before you select and apply for a program, as not all certificate programs are created equal.
Key Considerations Before Enrolling
First, consider your current level of education and experience in the HR field. It is not uncommon for employers to require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in human resources for entry-level positions in the field, but an HR certificate could be an excellent way to pursue more advanced skills and specialized knowledge that could open doors to other opportunities. The same applies to those who aspire to move into HR management or similar leadership positions.
Consider, too, the cost of the program and the number of credit hours you need to complete in order to obtain your certificate in human resource management. Many programs consist of fewer than 20 credit hours and are designed to be completed in less than a year for a more cost-effective approach.
You may also want to think about the program format that would be best for your unique needs and learning style. If you are already working full-time or have other commitments on your plate, a 100% online certificate program could save you the time and hassle of commuting to classes on a physical campus while offering much greater convenience and flexibility with scheduling.
Understanding Accreditation and Recognition in the United States
Finally, be sure to look into the accreditation of any certificate program from an institution of higher learning. Accreditation is a voluntary process, but it is one that any reputable school should pursue in order to ensure that its programs meet or exceed certain quality standards for education. Most schools are accredited by their state’s office of higher education, but some programs may also be accredited by other authorities within a specific industry. For example, Post University is institutionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Online HR Certificate Courses and What They Offer
As you begin your search for programs and certificate courses in human resource management, you have no shortage of options from which to choose. The key, of course, is narrowing down those options and ultimately selecting the one that best suits your needs and professional goals.
Exploring Types of HR Certificates
First and foremost, it is worth noting there is a major distinction between a certification and a certificate program. A certificate in HR is not the same as a certification in the sense that you do not need to pass an exam or have credentials renewed. Instead, HR professionals may pursue certificate programs through colleges, universities, or other organizations to prepare them for formal certifications or supplement their degrees — although some may complete a certificate program simply to expand their knowledge and set themselves apart in the field. Ideally, these programs cover material that is in line with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) competency model.
On the other hand, industry certifications may be earned, typically by passing an exam and meeting other basic requirements to demonstrate your mastery of an HR niche. However, certifications typically need to be renewed every few years and may require continuing education or other requirements in order to do so. Depending on where your specific interests lie, you might consider pursuing one of the following types of popular HR designations:
- SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP)
- Professional in Human Resources (PHR)
- Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR)
- Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR)
- Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP)
Comparing Online HR Courses
If you decide to pursue your certification, take the time to compare online certificate courses in human resource management to determine which may be best for you. For example, there are courses and programs designed specifically to help students prepare for their SHRM-CP exams, just as there are programs meant to help students prepare for PHR certifications and the like.
When comparing programs, it is essential to consider the quality of the content provided, the specific subject matter covered, and the level of experience the program caters to. With these factors in mind, you may be in a better position to choose the course or program that is right for you.
Breaking Down the HR Certificate Course Curriculum
No two HR certificate programs are exactly alike, which is why it is so important to study the curriculum of your chosen program in detail. This way, you know exactly what kind of coursework will be covered and what to expect from your program without any surprises along the way.
Core Subjects in Human Resource Management
Key topics covered in an HR management certificate program might include:
- Labor and Employment law
- Staffing
- Training
- Compensation
- Ethical Issues in HR Management
- Operations
- Human Resource Systems
- Communication Dynamics
No matter which colleges or certificate programs you are considering, take a close look at the curriculum to determine which industry issues and topics will be covered in your coursework. From there, be sure that those topics align with your own professional interests and career goals.
Elective and Specialized Topics Available
In addition to the core coursework of your certificate program, some certificate programs may also offer the opportunity for students to take elective classes or study specialized topics within the industry.
Certificates in HR management may be able to be customized to meet your unique interests and professional goals with several elective course options. These courses cover niches of the field such as:
- Environmental health
- Compensation and benefits
- Managing cultural differences in the workplace
- Training and development
Taking specialized elective courses could be a great way to improve your understanding and skills related to more focused areas of the industry, which could give you the opportunity to build skills relevant to your own career goals.
Admission Criteria and Application Steps
Before applying to any HR certificate program, it is also wise to research admission criteria and application requirements. This way, you can be sure that you meet all criteria before you spend your valuable time filling out an application and submitting other required documentation.
Common Prerequisites for Enrollment
The exact prerequisites and requirements for enrollment into an HR management certificate program may vary from one school to the next. For example, some programs may require that students already have an undergraduate degree in human resources or a related field of study — and the ones that do not may still require incoming students to complete prerequisite coursework in human resources. For some certificate programs, a certain amount of work experience may also be required or recommended.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Application Process
Just as prerequisites and admission requirements may vary from one program to the next, the same applies to the application process. In general, however, students applying for an undergraduate certificate program need to complete a formal application that includes their personal contact information, previous educational experience, and other details.
For programs where prerequisites or previous educational experience are required, it is also common for official transcripts to be submitted along with the application. It may take time to obtain transcripts from a previous school, so it is crucial to request these records as far in advance as possible to ensure that you can submit all required documentation by the application deadline.
Additionally, some schools require students to pay a non-refundable application fee, which should be included with your application or paid at the time of its submission.
Program Costs and Financial Aid Options
Determining how much your HR certificate would cost you is key because this could help you plan ahead when it comes to paying for your education. Fortunately, many schools offer financial aid and other resources to make paying for school a little easier on your wallet.
Tuition and Fees Overview for HR Certificate Courses
The easiest way to calculate your tuition cost is to take the number of credit hours required for your certificate program multiplied by the cost per credit hour. For example: If your school charges $600 per credit hour and your certificate program consists of 18 credit hours, then you could expect your tuition to add up to about $10,800 — assuming that credit hour costs remain consistent for your entire enrollment period.
Aside from tuition, however, there may be other fees and expenses to take into consideration. This may include laboratory fees, registration fees, and technology fees. If you have questions about how much your HR certificate will cost, it is best to schedule an appointment directly with an advisor.
Scholarships and Financial Aid Resources Available
Not sure how you will pay for your HR certificate program? The good news is that there may be scholarships and other financial aid resources available to students pursuing undergraduate certificates.
One of the best ways to determine whether you may qualify for federal aid to help pay for school is to fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). From there, you may learn more about whether you qualify for federal grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and subsidized/unsubsidized loans.
In addition to federal aid, private loans may be an option for helping you pay for your certificate program. Some schools may also offer their own financial aid in the form of scholarships and grants for students who meet certain eligibility requirements, as well as payment plans to help you break up your costs into more manageable payments.
Online Learning Experience and Support Services
If you are opting for an online certificate program for added flexibility and convenience, there are a few other considerations worth keeping in mind as you get ready for classes to begin.
Technology and Platform Requirements
For starters, be sure to ask about any specific technology or platform requirements for your computer or any other device you plan on using to complete your coursework. Generally, a computer (Mac or PC) with access to a reliable internet connection is all you need to complete an HR management certificate, but some programs may have specific software requirements or other device specifications — so it is better to learn about this sooner rather than later. This way, you can plan accordingly.
If you do not have reliable internet access at home, you may need to plan to complete your coursework at a local library, cafe, or other location with an internet connection. However, it is ideal to have access to a home network that is secure for your protection and peace of mind.
Access to Student Support and Career Guidance
If you run into obstacles or need other support along your educational journey, make sure the school you choose has student resources available to you. Ideally, all students (including online certificate students) would have access to support from a Center for Career and Professional Development — providing assistance with resume writing, portfolio building, interview preparation, and more. Meanwhile, a Center for Academic Success would offer tutoring services, a dedicated writing center, and other academic help at no additional cost to students.
Career Prospects and Industry Value of HR Certificates
Regardless of where your specific interests lie within the HR field, having a certificate in HR management could be extremely valuable — especially in the increasingly dynamic industry of human resources.
Career Paths Available With an HR Certificate
While obtaining an HR certificate alone does not automatically guarantee you a promotion or specific job in the field, the foundational knowledge and advanced skills that come along with an HR certificate could help qualify you for more advanced roles within the field.
Depending on the electives you take as part of your certificate program, you may also build your skill set in areas like training and development, compensation/benefits, environmental health, and workplace culture/diversity.
How HR Certificates Add Value to Your Career Profile
Likewise, an HR certificate on your resume could be beneficial when it comes time for promotions or you decide to seek new employment. Having this certificate could help you establish a greater sense of credibility, too, allowing you to position yourself as a thought leader in the HR community.
Ready to Get Started With Your HR Management Certificate?
A human resource management certificate could help diversify your skill set and may deepen your understanding of the nuances and complexities of HR. Whether you are interested in staying on top of industry news, enhancing your recruitment strategies, or improving your understanding of employment law, this type of program is designed to support your continued professional development.
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Please note jobs and/or career outcomes highlighted in this blog do not reflect jobs or career outcomes expected from any Post program. To learn more about Post’s programs and their outcomes, please fill out a form to speak with an admissions advisor.
