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The Best Online Bachelor's Degrees in Human Resource Management

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The Best Online Bachelor's Degrees in Human Resource Management
Rank School Location
1 Pennsylvania State University-World Campus University Park, Pennsylvania
2 University of Alabama at Birmingham Birmingham, Alabama
3 Florida Institute of Technology Melbourne, Florida
4 Indiana State University Terre Haute, Indiana
5 Colorado State University-Global Campus Aurora, Colorado
6 University of the Incarnate Word San Antonio, Texas
7 Regis University Denver, Colorado
8 Saint Leo University Saint Leo, Florida
9 Ottawa University-Ottawa Ottawa, Kansas
10 Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College Saint Mary of the Woods, Indiana
11 Limestone College Gaffney, South Carolina
12 Athens State University Athens, Alabama
13 Concordia University-Saint Paul Saint Paul, Minnesota
14 University of Maryland Global Campus Adelphi, Maryland
15 Metropolitan State University Saint Paul, Minnesota
16 Wilmington University New Castle, Delaware
17 Southwestern College Winfield, Kansas
18 DeSales University Center Valley, Pennsylvania
19 Colorado Christian University Lakewood, Colorado
20 Franklin University Columbus, Ohio

We have ranked the best online bachelor's degrees in Human Resource Management in the U.S.

This ranking is designed for online students to make informed college and degree decisions for getting a bachelor's degree in Human Resource Management.

An online Bachelor's in Human Resources degree provides graduates the knowledge and skills they need for a rewarding Human Resources (HR) career; companies in just about every industry need HR professionals.

They play a vital role in helping companies and organizations operate smoothly and efficiently. Managing a labor force involves an understanding of complicated issues, companies realize they need HR experts.

Some HR professionals serve as HR generalists for small companies, whereas others work as HR specialists for medium and large companies in a specific HR niche such as compensation and benefits, government compliance, employee and labor relations or training and development.

Some large corporations employ HR professionals for corporate positions and other HR professionals for field positions.

Featured Online Colleges

College Student

The Best Online Bachelor's in Human Resource Management

1.

Pennsylvania State University-World Campus

School of Labor and Employment Relations

University Park, Pennsylvania

Penn State World Campus, established in 1998, the online affiliate of Pennsylvania State University, provides a wide array of online undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Penn State World Campus provides plenty of academic and professional resources as well as military and veteran discounts.

Penn State World Campus and the School of Labor and Employment Relations offer the online Bachelor of Arts and online Bachelor of Science in Labor and Employment Relations degree program. The programs prepare students for careers in human resources. Both programs provide students a strong foundation in vital human resources concepts.

The Bachelor of Science program places an emphasis on subjects including communications, management, and quantitative aspects of the human resource field.

The Bachelor of Arts program has more emphasis in the social sciences and humanities.

Credit requirements for each program: 123 credit hours

Core courses:

  • Introductory Microeconomic Analysis and Policy
  • Labor Economics
  • Research Methods in Labor and Employment Relations
  • Employment Relations
  • History of Work in America
  • Introduction to Industrial Organizational Psychology
  • Human Resource Ethics

Online instruction style: The majority of the Penn State World Campus courses use asynchronous learning

Admissions and transfer credit information: Applicants need a high school diploma or GED. Applicants who attended another institution must provide official college or university transcripts.

Students may transfer credit from college-level work performed at regionally accredited institutions; there is no limit on the number of credits a student can transfer to Penn State; however it's likely not all of the transferred credit may count toward the intended degree program.

The school requires 36 of the last 60 credits a student earns to obtain a bachelor's degree come from Penn State University.

Penn State World Campus received accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).

2.

University of Alabama at Birmingham

University of Alabama at Birmingham - Collat School of Business - Department of Management, Information Systems, and Quantitative Methods

Birmingham, Alabama

The Department of Management, Information Systems, and Quantitative Methods, located in the Collat School of Business, provides an array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. The School, through on-campus centers and outreach initiatives, provides students opportunities to network, serve the community and engage in the field.

The Online Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management degree program provides a curriculum aligned with SHRM guidelines for HR education. The program has a strong emphasis on career-readiness and success.

The program provides theoretical and practical learning. The program prepares students for careers in the field or graduate study through developing a strong foundation in important human resource management concepts.

Credit requirements: 48 credit hours to complete the major

Required courses:

  • Organizational Behavior
  • Compensation Administration
  • Human Resource Management
  • Employment Law
  • Organizational Staffing
  • Managing Through Leadership

Students in the online Bachelor's in Human Resource Management degree program need to satisfy an experiential learning requirement.

Online instruction style: Asynchronous

Admissions and transfer credit information: Standardized tests: ACT or SAT and official high school transcripts. Transfer students need a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 (on a 4.0 scale) after completing 24 semester hours of transferable college-level work. Transfer students need to send official transcripts from each college or university they attended.

Applicants with fewer than 24 credit hours of transferrable work, must also meet the minimum admission requirements for entering freshmen. Non-traditional students must send their official high school transcript. These applicants must have a minimum high school grade point average of 2.75 or minimum score of 520 on the GED test.

The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges provides the University of Alabama at Birmingham with accreditation. The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) provides the Collat School of Business with accreditation.

3.

Florida Institute of Technology

Florida Tech Online

Melbourne, Florida

Florida Institute of Technology, a private nonprofit university established in 1958 as Brevard Engineering College, provides degree programs in a variety of disciplines. The online division, Florida Tech Online, offers a variety of degree programs.

Florida Tech Online provides an online Bachelor of Arts in Human Resources Management degree with a curriculum fully aligned with SHRM's HR Curriculum Guidebook and Templates. The program uses an interdisciplinary approach to explore the various aspects of human resource management.

The online human resources degree program covers subjects such as business fundamentals, including accounting, marketing, finance and economics as well as specialized management courses.

Credit requirements: 121 credit hours

Selected core courses:

  • Management of Human Resources
  • Continuous Quality Management
  • Business Ethics
  • Organizational Behavior and Development
  • Administrative and Personnel Law
  • Principles of Management

Online instruction style: Asynchronous

Start dates: Six start dates throughout the year

Admissions and transfer credit information: Applicants need to provide official documentation of high school graduation or GED if applying with fewer than 24 semester credit hours from an accredited institution.

The school automatically evaluates transfer hours applicants obtained from regionally accredited schools as part of the formal application process; a class must have a grade of C- or better for eligibility for transfer.

The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) provides Florida Institute of Technology with accreditation.

4.

Indiana State University

Indiana State Online

Terre Haute, Indiana

Indiana State Online, the online division of Indiana State University meets the needs of non-traditional students in flexibility and support. Indiana State Online offers non-traditional students a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs.

Indiana State Online provides a Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Development online degree program affiliated with SHRM. The program provides a foundation in important aspects of human resources.

The program provides a balanced curriculum which emphasizes theoretical and practical learning. Students may select elective classes to specialize in a specific area.

Credit requirements: 51 credit hours

Selected required courses:

  • Labor Relations in Human Resource Development
  • Developing Occupational and Training Programs
  • Occupational Liability and Safety
  • Career Development and Employee Appraisals
  • Continuous Performance Improvement
  • Contemporary Issues in Human Resource Development
  • Methods and Strategies for Instructional Programs

Students in the Human Resource Development Bachelor's online degree program must complete an internship.

Online instruction style: Asynchronous

Program options: Full-time or part-time

Program start dates: Seven start dates per year Admissions and transfer credit information: Freshmen who are younger than 21, and transfer students who've completed below 24 credits, have to provide SAT or ACT scores.

Transfer students need a 2.0 GPA in all college level studies. Students can include a maximum of 90 transfer credits toward a bachelor's degree.

Indiana State University received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

5.

Colorado State University-Global Campus

School of Management and Innovation

Aurora, Colorado

The School of Management and Innovation at Colorado State University Global-Campus provides an array of online undergraduate and graduate programs. The School of Management and Innovation provides working and non-traditional students flexible programs.

The School of Management and Innovation provides an Online Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management degree which provides courses aligned with SHRM standards for Human Resources education. The program covers the complex responsibilities of the human resources field. The online human resources degree provides students an array of specialization options.

The online Bachelor's degree in Human Resource Management prepares students for human resources careers or for future graduate studies.

Credit requirements: 120 credit hours

Core courses:

  • Applying Leadership Principles
  • Compensation and Performance Management
  • Business Policy and Strategy
  • Human Resources Management in a Global World
  • Recruitment, Selection, and Employee Development
  • Principles of Human Resource Management
  • Labor Relations and Employment Law
  • Creating a Diverse and Ethical Workforce
  • Organizational Development

Students must complete a Capstone in Human Resource Management and a Human Resource Management Practicum.

Online instruction style: Asynchronous

Admissions and transfer credit information: High school graduates (or GED equivalent) need more than 12 transferable credit hours from an accredited university or college and a minimum GPA of 2.3 (applicants with less than 2.3 GPA on all prior college credit are encouraged to apply for provisional admission). Applicants with no college experience or less than 12 credits may qualify for the First Time Freshman program.

The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) provides Colorado State University Global-Campus with accreditation.

6.

University of the Incarnate Word

School of Professional Studies

San Antonio, Texas

The School of Professional Studies caters to the needs of adult, working, and non-traditional students. The School emphasizes career-readiness and real-world knowledge. The School of Professional Studies provides an array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, with the flexibility of online and evening classes.

The School of Professional Studies' Bachelor of Arts in Human Resources online degree features a curriculum aligned with SHRM's HR Curriculum Guidebook and Templates.

The program covers human resource management concepts, blending theoretical and practical learning. The degree program prepares students for the varied responsibilities of human resources professionals.

Credit requirements: 120 credit hours

Core courses: Human Resources and the Law

  • Training and Development Organizational Development
  • Staffing
  • Compensation and Benefits
  • Leadership in Organizations
  • Performance Management

Students in the online Human Resources degree program must complete a capstone project.

Online instruction style: Asynchronous

Admissions information: Students need a minimum GPA of 2.5.

The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges provides the University of the Incarnate Word with accreditation.

7.

Regis University

College of Business and Economics

Denver, Colorado

The College of Business and Economics at Regis University emphasizes their Jesuit tradition of values-based experiential learning. The College of Business provides a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Students can access valuable resources via several research and professional development centers on campus, including the WELL Center.

The College of Business and Economics offers an online Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management degree program which fully aligns with the Society for Human Resource Management's HR Curriculum Guidebook and Templates.

Blending practical and theoretical knowledge, students in the online Human Resource Management Bachelor's degree program develop the skills and foundation necessary to navigate the complex responsibilities of human resources management.

Students prepare to pursue careers as successful human resources managers through studying the fundamentals of the field.

Credit requirements: 128 credit hours

Upper division requirements:

  • Business
  • Finance
  • Labor Relations and Economics
  • Compensation Policy and Employment Law
  • Managing Cultural Diversity
  • Management of Human Resources
  • Diversity in the Workplace or Managing Cultural Diversity
  • Organizational Behavior
  • Ethical Decision Making in Business

Students in the online Bachelor's in Human Resources degree program must complete a capstone project or the Business Policy and Strategy course. Students have the option of combining the Bachelor of Science program with an MBA program.

Online instruction style: Asynchronous

Admissions and transfer credit information: Applicants need to submit official transcripts from previously attended colleges. Students transferring to the College of Business & Economics may transfer prior college credit. Students seeking a bachelor's degree can take up to 75 percent of their coursework through a community college or up to 90 credit hours, depending on the major.

The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) provides Regis University with accreditation.

8.

Saint Leo University

Donald R. Tapia School of Business

Saint Leo, Florida

The Donald R. Tapia School of Business, the largest Catholic business school in the United States, offers business students an array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs.

The School of Business, integrating the University's Catholic mission into its degree programs, emphasizes business principles and leadership as well as religious and spiritual grounding.

The School of Business, through partnerships with businesses on its industry advisory councils, offers students opportunities for professional connection and advancement.

The School of Business provides an online Bachelor of Arts in Human Resource Management degree which uses courses aligned with standards from the SHRM for HR education.

The program provides a foundation in theoretical and practical knowledge and skills. The program emphasizes strong leadership skills alongside human resource management principles.

Credit requirements: 120 credit hours

Core courses:

  • Risk Management
  • Selection and Placement
  • Human Resource Development
  • Total Compensation
  • Human Resources
  • Strategic Planning
  • Administrative and Personnel Law
  • Industrial and Organizational Psychology

Students in the Human Resource Management Bachelor's online degree program need to complete an internship.

Online instruction style: Asynchronous

Program options: Full-time or part-time

Program start dates: Six times per year

Admissions and transfer credit information: Applicants should request the testing company SAT or ACT to directly send standardized test scores to Saint Leo University, however the University no longer requires undergraduate applicants to submit SAT or ACT scores.

Transfer students should submit an official transcript from each institution they attended, covering all collegiate-level work completed. Students with less than 24 college credits must also submit official high school transcripts.

Saint Leo University Online received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

9.

Ottawa University-Ottawa

Angell Snyder School of Business

Ottawa, Kansas

The Angell Snyder School of Business at Ottawa University provides a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Building on a liberal arts base, the programs emphasize the importance of business acumen, analytical and technical skills as well as ethical decision-making.

The School of Business provides an online Bachelor of Arts in Human Resources degree program which provides courses aligned with SHRM standards for HR education.

The program provides concentrations in five areas:

  • Communication
  • Health Care Management
  • Leadership and Management
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Global Operations.

The online Bachelor's degree in Human Resources provides students the skills and knowledge to pursue a human resource management entry-level position and graduate study.

Credit requirements: 124 credit hours

Required courses:

  • Employment Law and Policy
  • Human Resources Administration
  • Employment and Staffing
  • Compensation and Benefits
  • Training and Development
  • Seminar in Applied Human Resources
  • Planning and Budgeting
  • Behavior in Organizations

Students in the Human Resources Bachelor's online degree program must complete a capstone project.

Admissions and transfer credit information: Applicants need to submit official transcripts form all previous colleges and universities they attended. Students can transfer up to 80 hours toward a 124 hour degree program.

Ottawa University received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

10.

Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College

Saint Mary of the Woods, Indiana

Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College, founded in 1840, provides value-centered education programs rooted in the Catholic tradition and designed for personal and professional advancement. The Catholic, private liberal arts college offers students numerous degree and non-degree programs.

Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College provides a Bachelor of Science in Human Resources Management online degree program which provides courses aligned with SHRM standards for HR education.

The curriculum covers the fundamental aspects of human resource management, such as staff management, employment law, and benefits. Students may take internships for professional experience and networking.

Students in the online Bachelor in Human Resources Management degree program prepare for human resource management careers through studying diverse issues from the field.

Credit requirements: 125 credit hours

Required Human Resource Management courses:

  • Human Resource Management I
  • Human Resource Management II
  • Legal Issues in Human Resource Management
  • Organizational Behavior
  • Contemporary Issues in Human Resource Management

Online Instructional style: Asynchronous

Learning options: Full-time or part-time

Admissions and transfer credit information: Applicants must provide high school transcripts or GED, ACT and or SAT scores, and official college transcripts, if applicable. A student might be able to transfer college credits from courses taken from another institution if the student has earned at least a C and the student earned the credits at a regionally accredited institution and the credits meet current general studies or major requirements (certain older credits may no longer apply).

If credits are out of date or the student attended an institution which is not regionally accredited, the student might be able to show their learning is valid and current with a PLA or CLEP.

The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) provides Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College with accreditation.

11.

Limestone College

Department of Business and Economics

Gaffney, South Carolina

The Department of Business and Economics at Limestone College provides students a variety of undergraduate programs and an MBA. The Department of Business and Economics provides an online Bachelor in Human Resource Management degree built on human resource fundamentals, including ethical decision-making, communications, and labor relations.

The Bachelor in HR Management online degree program develops foundational knowledge and skills in the field through theoretical and practical instruction. The program includes the option for students to pursue an internship.

The online human resources degree program prepares students for a variety of careers in the human resource management field.

Selected required courses:

  • Business Communications
  • Ethical Issues in the Workplace
  • Compensation and Benefits
  • Strategic Human Resources Management
  • Staffing and Labor Relations
  • Microcomputer Applications
  • Staffing Development and Training

Credit requirements: 123 credits

Admissions information: A minimum GPA of 2.0; standardized tests: SAT or ACT. Transfer students must earn at least 31 semester hours as a Limestone College student to obtain a baccalaureate degree.

Online instruction style: Asynchronous

Limestone College received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

12.

Athens State University

College of Business

Athens, Alabama

The College of Business, housed at Athens State University, provides a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. The College of Business, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and professionalism, seeks to produce well-qualified graduates in various fields.

The College of Business provides an online Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management degree program which provides a curriculum aligned with guidelines from the SHRM for HR education. The program covers subjects such as communication, employment law, and management principles.

The online human resources degree program combines traditional business courses, specialized management course, and related psychology courses.

The Bachelor's degree in Human Resource Management prepares students for human resource management careers and graduate study.

Credit requirements: 124 credit hours

Selected required courses:

  • Organizational Communication
  • Principles of Management and Leadership
  • Labor Economics Management
  • Information Systems
  • Employment Law for Business
  • Human Resources Management
  • Organizational behavior and Team Building
  • Advanced Human Resource Management
  • Compensation and Benefits

Students in the Bachelor's in Human Resource Management online degree program must complete a capstone project.

Online instruction style: Mainly asynchronous and possibly voluntary synchronous activities

Admissions and transfer credit information: Applicants need to submit copies of transcripts from all colleges and universities they previously attended. Students seeking a regular transfer need to complete at least 60 semester hours of college credit from a regionally accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 2.0 or have an associate degree.

Joint enrollment requires students complete at least 32 semester hours at a community college with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and permission of the instructional dean at the community college. Students seeking early admission need to complete at least 41 semester hours from a regionally accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 2.0.

Athens State University received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

13.

Concordia University-Saint Paul

Saint Paul, Minnesota

Concordia University St. Paul, established in 1893, offers students an array of degree and non-degree programs. Concordia University St. Paul, a Christian liberal arts university, integrates its foundational values into the programs, promoting a diverse, Christian-centered community.

The online accelerated Bachelor of Arts in Human Resource Management degree features a curriculum aligned with SHRM guidelines for HR education. The program has an emphasis on human resource fundamentals, such as staff management, ethical management, and employment law.

Students in the online human resources degree program prepare to pursue careers as leaders in human resources.

Credit requirements: 40 credit hours; the University designed the program for students who have an associate degree or have completed a significant amount of college coursework.

Required courses:

  • Principles of Ethical Management
  • Human Resource Management and Employment Law
  • Marketing in the Global Environment
  • Applied Accounting and Finance
  • Analytics and Technology
  • Strategic Compensation Systems
  • Recruitment, Selection, and Onboarding
  • Strategic Human Resources
  • Organizational Development & Change
  • Human Resources Plan

Online instructional style: Asynchronous

Learning options: Full-time or part-time

Program start dates: Seven times per year

Admission requirements: First year students need to submit their ACT or SAT scores. Adult undergraduate applicants need a minimum of a 2.0 GPA from a regionally accredited institution. Students who competed less than 20 college credits, need to submit their official high school transcript and any college level courses they have taken.

14.

University of Maryland Global Campus

Adelphi, Maryland

The University of Maryland Global Campus provides a wide variety of online undergraduate degree options. The School, specializing in online and hybrid programs, provides non-traditional students with flexibility. Military and veteran students may receive financial aid and discounts.

The Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management online degree program provides courses aligned with SHRM standards for HR education. The program covers human resource management fundamentals.

The program provides theories, practical skills and real-world applications. Students in the online human resources degree program study management and organization theory, employment law, organizational behavior and development approaches, and more.

Credit requirements: 120 credit hours

Selected courses in the major:

  • Human Resource Management
  • Organizational Communication
  • Labor Relations
  • Organizational Culture
  • Employment Law for Business
  • Global Human Resource Management
  • Management and Organization Theory

Online instruction style: Asynchronous

Admissions and transfer credit information: Applicants need a minimum of a 2.0 GPA; students are not required to submit SAT, ACT, GRE, or GMAT scores for most programs.

The school accepts many types of transfer credit, students can earn college credit for what they've learned on the job or in the military. The school accepts up to 70 credits from community colleges and two-year schools and up to 90 credits from approved four-year colleges and universities.

The University of Maryland University College received accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).

15.

Metropolitan State University

College of Management

Saint Paul, Minnesota

The College of Management at Metropolitan State University provides an array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs in the areas of business and management. The College of Management emphasizes the importance of practical, real-world knowledge and career-readiness.

The College of Management's Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management online degree provides courses aligned with SHRM standards for HR education. The program covers the diverse responsibilities in human resource management, such as staffing, employee benefits, and ethics.

The online HR Management degree program prepares students for entry-level careers in the field through providing a balanced foundation of knowledge and skills.

Credit requirements: 120 credit hours

  • College of Management Foundation and Core Courses:
  • Human Resource Management: A Strategic Framework
  • Staffing Organizations
  • Employee Development and Training
  • Compensation Management
  • Employee Benefits Management

Students in the online Bachelor's in Human Resource Management degree program must complete a capstone course in Strategic Management.

Online instruction style: Asynchronous and synchronous

Admissions and transfer credit information: First-time freshman: A minimum GPA of 3.0 and standardized tests: SAT or ACT. The school considers but does not guarantee admission to applicants with a lower GPA.

Students who have enrolled in another school and tried to complete a minimum of 16 credits that are able to be transferred, with a minimum GPA of 2.0, apply as a transfer student. Transfers are required to give official transcripts for each school they've previously enrolled at (even if they did not earn any credits) and submit transcripts for any credits.

The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) provides Metropolitan State University with accreditation.

16.

Wilmington University

College of Business

New Castle, Delaware

The College of Business at Wilmington University provides numerous options for study through undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs and offers professional certificates in many specific career disciplines. The College of Business uses practitioner-based faculty to lead the programs that prepare students for an array of careers in diverse fields.

The College of Business offers an online Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management degree program which provides courses aligned with SHRM standards for HR education. The program provides a general overview of subjects including human resource planning, compensation and benefits, staffing, employee/labor relations as well as training and development.

A majority of the courses do not require the purchase of a textbook. Students in the online Bachelor in Human Resource Management program can pursue internship and co-op experience opportunities to develop professional connections and gain experience.

The program has an experiential learning component that addresses the needs of working professionals who need to gain practical HR experience in their current place of employment.

Credit requirements: 120 credit hours

Core course examples:

  • Business Ethics
  • Staffing Organizations
  • Organizational Development
  • International Human Resource Management
  • Human Resource Management
  • Strategic Human Capital Management
  • Compensation Administration

Electives Include:

  • Computer Applications in HRM Occupational Health
  • Safety & Security
  • Organizational Communication
  • The Adult Learner
  • Managing Diversity
  • Human Resources Leadership
  • HRM in Public and Nonprofit Organizations
  • Aligning Human Resource and Organizational Strategies
  • Building and Managing Employee Engagement
  • The Current and Future Trends of Human Resource Management
  • Strategic Performance Management
  • Training and Development

Online instruction style: Asynchronous

Learning options: Full-time or part time

Program start dates: Seven start dates per year

The program has an accelerated option allowing students to earn up to 12 graduate credits toward an Master in Science in Management in Human Resource Management or a Masters in Business Administration with a concentration in Human Resource Management.

Admissions and transfer credit information: Freshmen need to submit official high school transcripts and complete a math and English skills assessment. Transfer students must submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions they previously attended.

Students with less than 15 accepted transfer credits must submit an official high school transcript or GED. Students can transfer up to 90 credits. Students can earn credit for prior learning.

The Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) provides Wilmington University with accreditation. The College of Business received specialized accreditation for its business programs through the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).

17.

Southwestern College

Winfield, Kansas

Southwestern College Professional Studies specializes in providing continued college education to working adults, military members as well as people seeking to improve their careers. The College provides an array of evening and online programs.

Southwestern College Professional Studies' Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management and Development online degree prepares students to enter competitive professional environments.

Students have the opportunity to incorporate knowledge of contemporary theory, concepts and practice and develop applicable skills employers seek.

Credit requirements: 124 credit hours

Core courses:

  • Principles of Human Resource Management and Development
  • Legal and Regulatory Environment of Human Resources
  • Compensation and Benefits
  • Performance Management
  • Developing Workforce Talent for Current and Future Roles
  • Understanding Personnel Characteristics and Group Dynamics
  • Project Management
  • Human Resource Information Systems

Students must also complete a Human Resource Management and Development capstone project.

Online instruction style: Asynchronous

Admissions and transfer credit information: Applicants need a minimum GPA of 2.0 and complete at least six post-high school college credits. Students can earn credit through exams such as CLEP and DANTES. Students can receive credit for military training and from professional certifications and training.

Students with prior college credit and received a "C" grade or better can transfer up to 64 credits toward their program. Students must have received their prior credit from a regionally accredited organization or an accreditor the Council on Higher Education Accreditation recognizes.

Students can receive college credit from a prior learning portfolio which can include work and volunteer experience, travel and training.

Southwestern College Professional Studies received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

18.

DeSales University

Division of Business

Center Valley, Pennsylvania

The Division of Business at DeSales University, a private Catholic college, provides an array of undergraduate and graduate programs. Through offering numerous internship opportunities, the Division of Business encourages students to develop real-world experience alongside theoretical knowledge.

The Division of Business offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Human Resource Management degree program which combines a liberal arts foundation with technical training.

Students learn to apply human resource management principles to solve common business problems. The online human resources degree prepares students for careers as competent and informed human resource managers.

Credit requirements: 120 credit hours

Selected Human Resource Management courses:

  • Principles of Management
  • Principles of Marketing
  • Quantitative Business Analysis
  • Managerial Accounting
  • The Legal Environment of Business
  • Human Resource Management
  • Employment Law
  • Strategic Compensation and Benefits

Students in the online Bachelor's in Human Resource Management degree program must complete a capstone project.

Online instruction style: Asynchronous and synchronous

Admissions and transfer credit information: Standardized tests: SAT or ACT. DeSales University accepts up to 75 transfer credits obtained with a grade of C- or higher from accredited colleges.

Students can receive credit from nontraditional learning experiences such as AP, CLEP, DSST, military training, portfolio assessment, non-traditional training, and DeSales University Challenge Examination.

DeSales University received accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).

19.

Colorado Christian University

College of Adult and Graduate Studies

Lakewood, Colorado

The College of Adult and Graduate Studies provides students an array of flexible educational opportunities, including bachelor's degree programs, associate's degree programs, and certificate programs.

The Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management online degree, combines human resource management with biblical and ethical principles of leadership.

The program, designed for adult students and aligned with the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM), focuses on subjects such as training and development; labor and employment law; workforce planning; performance management; and compensation and benefits.

The program reviews the technologies and information system applications associated with administering HR functions.

Credit requirements: 120 credit hours

Major core courses:

  • Organizational Behavior
  • Human Resource Administration I
  • Human Resource Administration II
  • Human Resources Management
  • Workforce Planning
  • Staffing and Performance
  • Labor and Employment Law
  • Training and Development
  • Employee and Labor Relations
  • Globalization
  • Mergers and Acquisitions
  • Managing Diversity
  • Compensation and Benefits

Online instruction style: Asynchronous

Program options: Full-time or part-time

Start dates: Three start dates per year

Admissions and transfer credit information: Adult undergraduate admissions: Applicants must submit their high school transcript, with a graduation date, a copy of their high school diploma or a copy of their GED.

Through prior learning credit, students can earn up to 75 credits for a bachelor's degree for life experience through credit by portfolio and credit by exam. Students who already started a degree at another regionally or nationally accredited college or university can transfer up to 90 credits for a bachelor's degree.

Colorado Christian University has received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

20.

Franklin University

Columbus, Ohio

Franklin University, a private college established in 1902, has campuses in Ohio and Indiana. The University offers a variety of degree programs. Franklin University focuses on working adult learners.

Franklin University's Bachelor of Science in Human Resources Management online degree program covers subjects such as performance management, employee and labor relations, organizational development, legal compliance, workforce planning, and talent management.

The program aligns with SHRM's HR Curriculum Guidebook. Franklin University also provides an online Human Resources Management - Subsequent Bachelor of Science degree. The University designed the degree for students who already obtained a bachelor's degree or higher.

Credit requirements: 124 semester hours

Major area courses:

  • Human Resources Management
  • Training and Development
  • Staffing Employee and Labor Relations
  • Compensation and Benefits
  • Human Resources Capstone

Online instruction style: Asynchronous

Admissions and transfer credit information: Applicants with no college experience: High school transcript; no GPA requirements. Students with some college experience, but transferring less than 24 credits from an accredited college or university need to provide their high school and college transcripts.

Students have various ways to maximize their transfer credit, including leveraging their previous work experience and training. Students transferring at least 24 credits from an accredited college or university should submit their college transcripts.

The Higher Learning Commission provides Franklin University with accreditation.

Financing an Online Bachelor's in Human Resource Management Degree:

Many colleges and universities offer online students financial aid. Online students as well as traditional students applying for federal financial aid must attend a school which has accreditation from an accrediting agency which received recognition from the Department of Education.

Our Financial Aid Guide for Online College Students provides vital information about the various types of financial assistance such as Federal Direct Subsidized Loans, Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans, Grants, Lifetime Learning Credit, the American Opportunity Tax Credit, Parent Plus Loans, Grad Plus Loans, and more.

Financial Aid Guide for Online College Students


Ranking Methodology

This Best Online Bachelor's Degrees in Human Resource Management ranking was created using Successful Student's ranking algorithm. This algorithm uses the following data points to calculate a school's ranking placement:

  • Acceptance rate
  • Graduation rate
  • Cost of undergraduate tuition
  • Percentage of first time undergraduates awarded aid
  • Percentage of students who are fully online
  • Academic influence

Salaries and Growth Rates | Table

Career PositionAverage Median SalaryProjected Growth Rate
Compensation and Benefits Manager$116,2405 percent
Human Resources Manager$106,9109 percent
Training and Development Manager$105,83010 percent
Human Resources Specialist$59,1807 percent
*Source: The Bureau of Labor StatisticsThe Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts employment growth

Highest Paying States (also District of Columbia) for Human Resources Managers

State EmploymentHourly Mean WageAnnual Mean Wage
New Jersey3,740$78.15$162,540
Rhode Island310$75.38$156,790
District of Columbia1,540$74.90$155,790
New York10,290$69.38$144,310
California17,160$67.24$139,860
*Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Human Resources Professional Organizations:

Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) - The largest HR professional organization in the world, SHRM has more than 285,000 members throughout the world. Members have access to networking with the member community, career development programs, professional conferences, SHRM publications, and a variety of useful resources.

Academy of Human Resource Development (AHRD) - The AHRD has a commitment to advancing the human resources field. Membership benefits include conferences, networking, access to publications and other useful resources.

National Human Resources Association (NHRA) - A professional HR membership organization, the NHRA provides an array of membership benefits, including career development and job search assistance, conferences, networking, newsletters, and connection with NHRA affiliates.

HR Certification Institute (HRCI) - The HRCI provides notable professional certifications and useful resources to advance the field. The HRCI also provides professional conferences.

International Public Management Association for Human Resources (IPMA-HR) - The IPMA-HR provides members connections in the HR field on an international scale. Members have access to career advancement help, publications and research, conferences, as well as a worldwide member network. IPMA-HR also provides certification.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Bachelor in Human Resources Degree?

Bachelor in Human Resources degree programs explore the relationships between human resources strategy and business success. The programs review the fundamental aspects of human resources and prepare students to deal with the complexities of the HR field.

Bachelor's in Human Resources degree programs cover subjects such as the principles of human resource management, labor relations and employment law, training and development, compensation and benefits, human resources strategic planning; organizational development, management of human resources and staffing, recruiting and performance management.

The programs integrate subjects such as business strategy, economics, and behavioral sciences. Many of the Human Resources Bachelor's degree programs include practical or field-experience coursework, such as a capstone project or an internship - students develop professional connections and gain real-world knowledge.

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How long does it take students to complete an online Bachelor's in Human Resources degree program?

Students can complete most of the programs in four years, however, some schools provide accelerated programs students can complete in two or three years, whereas some schools offer part-time programs students can complete in five years.

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What can you do with a Bachelor in Human Resources Degree?

Individuals with a Bachelor in Human Resources degree can seek an array of jobs in the HR field. They qualify for human resources generalist, specialist and leadership positions in public, private and nonprofit organizations.

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What are some Human Resources jobs?

Some common Human Resources jobs are: Benefit Specialist or Manager, Compensation and Benefits Manager or Specialist, Development and Training Manager or Specialist, Employee and Labor Relations Manager or Specialist, Employee Assistance Plan Manager, Health, Safety, and Security Manager or Specialist, Human Resources Coordinator, Human Resources Generalist, Human Resources Manager, Job Analysis Specialist, Labor Relations Manager or Specialist, Recruiting and Placement Manager or Specialist, Recruiting Coordinator, Technical Recruiter, and Training and Development Manager or Specialist.

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How much money do graduates with a bachelor's in Human Resources degree make?

Compensation and Benefits Manager earns $116,240, Human Resources Manager earns $106,910, Training and Development Manager earns $105,830, and a Human Resources Specialist earns $59,180.

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What are Human Resources Certifications?

Certification identifies an individual as an expert in the Human Resources field and enhances their resume. Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) - Many of the Human Resources degree programs align their curricula to SHRM standards.

The SHRM provides HR professionals valuable certification. The SHRM provides individuals certification through either the SHRM-CP or the SHRM-SCP exam (depending on professional experience, education, and responsibilities). HR Certification Institute (HRCI) - The HRCI provides seven certification options to meet different types of professional needs.

The HRCI provides certifications such as the PHR, a general certification for professionals, and the aPHR for entry-level professionals. Each certification indicates the professionalism and competence of an individual.

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