An online associate degree in human resource management may provide individuals with the fundamentals of staffing, recruiting, and employment law. In this two-year program, students may learn how to interview applicants, conduct new employee orientation, and maintain employment records. Program coursework may include general education requirements alongside major-specific classes such as human relations, business ethics, and human resource management.

HR associate-level graduates may either seek entry-level employment or enroll in a bachelor’s degree program. Associate-level graduates may seek employment in various sectors including small and large business, manufacturing, retail management, education, and healthcare.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: High School Diploma or GED
• Program Length: Two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Entry-Level Employment or Bachelor’s Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 21% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum for an associate-level degree in human resource management may include some general education courses as well as core HR classes. These classes may provide students with the skills they need to effectively recruit, evaluate, and train the personnel of an organization. Core online human resources coursework may include the following:

• Introduction to Business
• Human Relations
• Human Resource Management
• Employment Law
• Training and Development
• Business Ethics
• Compensations and Benefits

Career Options

Associate-level graduates may seek a career in a variety of industries including retail management, healthcare, manufacturing, government, and finance. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, human resources specialist employment opportunities are projected to increase by 21% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Human Resources Specialist
• Training and Development Assistant
• Benefits Associate
• Human Resources Assistant
• Recruiter

Continuing Education

Students who successfully complete an associate degree may wish to continue their studies by transferring to a baccalaureate program. A bachelor’s in human resource management may provide an in depth look at employment laws, hiring strategies, and interpersonal communication techniques.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook