Human Resources Management

What is a Human Resources Management Degree?

Earning your Bachelor of Arts in human resources management prepares you to work as an HR professional in companies and organizations across the industry spectrum. You’ll gain key insights into managing human resources that can be applied to national and global organizations. You’ll also learn modern labor laws, building and maintaining compensation structures and more.

If you’re interested in human resources management, but don’t want to major in it, you have options. UIU also offers a minor and a certificate in human resources management.

Getting Your Human Resources Management Degree Online

Get the same high-quality human resources management education that you would get from a UIU classroom — at home or in your office. Upper Iowa University offers an online human resources management degree, as well as in-person and distance learning options to meet your educational needs.

How to Apply

To apply, visit our Online Application portal to create an account and start your application. Still unsure if the human resources management degree at Upper Iowa University is right for you? Reach out to our admissions office to ask questions or request additional information. They’ll be happy to assist you.

Careers in Human Resources Management

UIU’s Bachelor of Arts in human resources management prepares you for entry-level jobs in areas like staffing, training and employee benefits. From there, you can advance to managerial positions.

A degree in human resources management can prepare you for jobs titles like:

• Human Resources Specialist
• Human Resources Manager
• Compensation and Benefits Manager
• Training and Development Manager
• Labor Relations Specialist
• Compensation, Benefits and Job Analysis Specialists

Finding a new job can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. The UIU Office of Career Development offers a variety of complimentary services to help you stand out in the job market.

Human Resources Management Salary Information

With a human resources management degree from UIU, you can enter the job market knowing you have the skills to merit a competitive salary. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, some average salaries for HR professionals include:

• Human Resources Specialist – $63,490^[1]
• Human Resources Manager – $121,220^[2]
• Compensation and Benefits Manager – $125,130^[3]
• Training and Development Manager – $115,640^[4]
• Labor Relations Specialist – $73,240^[5]
• Compensation, Benefits and Job Analysis Specialists – $67,190^[6]

Benefits of a Human Resources Management Degree

All major companies have an HR department. That means there are plenty of opportunities for careers in for-profit, nonprofit and government agencies. With a human resources management degree, you’ll not only have a strong business foundation, but you’ll have the specific knowledge and skills HR professionals use every day.

Your education doesn’t have to stop once you’ve earned your undergraduate degree. A Bachelor of Arts in human resources management can be the first step towards earning your Master of Business Administration (MBA) or Master of Public Administration (MPA).

Human Resources Management Courses

UIU’s human resources management curriculum is made up of core business courses, combined with classes in areas like psychology, sociology and economics. You’ll focus not only on practical skills, but on the ethical considerations that play a part in HR decisions every day.

You can expect to take courses in topics like:

• Labor Relations and Negotiations
• Compensation and Benefits Management
• Training and Development
• Personnel Selection and Evaluation

Human Resources Management Skills

As an HR professional, you’ll be working directly with your fellow employees every single day. That means that, while it’s important to stay current in the latest industry trends and HR-related software, it’s equally necessary to have strong interpersonal skills. You’ll need a mix of HR-related insights and soft skills to succeed on the job. Some of these skills include7:

• Communication
• Organization
• Budgeting
• Decision Making
• Empathy

Best Minors for Human Resources Management Majors

Adding a minor to your program can help you customize your degree to better align with your career goals. Some minors typically paired with a human resources management degree include:

• Economics
• Accounting
• Financial Management

If you’re interested in pursuing a graduate degree, UIU offers a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or Master of Public Administration (MPA).

What does a human resources manager do?

Human resources managers play a pivotal role in the lifecycle of an employee. They are typically responsible for interviewing and hiring new staff, and then continue to provide support for employees throughout their time at the company. Have a question about your benefits, or need help mediating a problem with a coworker? HR is there to help.

But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Human resource managers also oversee employee benefit programs, consult with senior executives on strategic planning and make sure the company is in compliance with local, state and federal laws, among many more responsibilities.

How can a human resources manager contribute to a company’s success?

A human resources manager is vital to the overall success of a company. They are responsible for recruiting, hiring and training talented employees who can contribute to the company’s goals. They also play a hands-on role when it comes to maintaining a positive company culture and ensuring employees feel supported.