Online HR Schools
Many schools offer human resources degrees online. These programs prepare learners to pursue a variety of careers in the human resources (HR) field. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects jobs for HR specialists to grow 10% from 2020-2030. These professionals only need a bachelor's degree to enter the field.
This page lists the best online HR degrees. Read on to learn the benefits of online human resources degrees, including costs and common classes. The final section explains how to become a human resources specialist.
View Our Rankings List Here
Featured Online HR Programs
Questions About Human Resources
Which degree is best for HR?
Most employers look for job candidates with a bachelor's in human resources. A master's degree in this subject may help graduates qualify for more advanced roles.
What are some HR career options?
HR graduates may work as HR managers or specialists. Some degree-holders work as training and recruitment coordinators or benefits specialists.
How long does it take to become an HR manager?
Most professionals take about four years to become a human resources coordinator. This career only requires a bachelor's degree.
Best Online Human Resources Degrees
#1 Best Online Human Resources Degrees
Florida International University
- Miami, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Florida International University is a public, four-year institution providing competitive study across 78 bachelor's degree programs. The institution supports 36 remote online bachelor's degree programs. The online BBA in human resource management program supports learners in their studies at a distance.
The human resources program enables learners to pursue flexible study. Majors work with academic advisors to select classes that match their interests and fit their schedule. Enrollees can choose electives, minors, and other modifications to individualize their studies.
Undergraduate HR students can expect to pay $16,529 in tuition. The school's accreditation status allows students to access funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships. Learners can expect to be awarded $8,958 in financial aid, on average.
Florida International University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 39,863
Total Online Programs: 67
Online Bachelor's Programs: 36
Admission Rate: 58%
Percent Online Enrollment
68%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Online Human Resources Degrees
Colorado State University Global Campus
- Aurora, CO
- 4 years
- Online
Colorado State University Global Campus, a public, four-year institution, offers competitive bachelor's degree programs. Distance learners can choose from 15 fully online bachelor's programs. Distance learners hoping to advance in the human resources field will benefit from the college's bachelor's program in human resource management.
The HR degree supports flexible study, meeting the needs of every learner. The program curriculum equips students with industry-relevant knowledge. Enrollees can work with their academic advisor to modify coursework, choose electives, and pursue other educational opportunities relevant to their career goals.
Human resources students can expect to pay $8,400 in tuition. Human resources learners can benefit from scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities while at the school.
Colorado State University Global Campus at a Glance:
Total Online Programs: 39
Online Bachelor's Programs: 15
Admission Rate: 99%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Accepted
Retention Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Best Online Human Resources Degrees
Western Governors University
- Salt Lake City, UT
- 4 years
- Online
Western Governors University, located in Salt Lake City, Utah, facilitates online learning throughout 65 online degree programs. Of these online programs, 30 offer an undergraduate-level education. The BBA in human resource management is an attractive option for students seeking to advance in the HR field. The human resources program accommodates full- or part-time study.
Degree-seekers must satisfy a 122-credit requirement during their studies. Classes incorporate general and advanced knowledge applicable to the human resources field. Enrollees can work with their academic advisor to customize their degree through electives, minors, and concentrations.
With a bachelor's degree, graduates can increase their job opportunities and earning potential. According to the college, graduates earn a median salary of $48,100 six years after completing their degree. Prospective students can contact the HR program to learn more about admission requirements and financial aid opportunities.
Western Governors University at a Glance:
Total Online Programs: 65
Online Bachelor's Programs: 30
Transfer Credits Accepted: Accepted
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
136,139
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#4 Best Online Human Resources Degrees
Thomas Edison State University
- Trenton, NJ
- 4 years
- Online
Learners seeking competitive online study in human resources should consider Thomas Edison State University's online BSBA in human resources management and organizational management. Students interested in distance learning will find the school's 20 fully online bachelor's degree programs attractive options. The human resources program offers a flexible, rigorous course of study.
The program prepares students for the demands of the HR field. Students complete general and advanced coursework, with the opportunity to modify the curriculum. Students can work with their academic advisor to customize their courses.
Undergraduate students can expect to pay $9,856 in tuition. Human resources students gain access to internal and external funding opportunities, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid, through the college.
Thomas Edison State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 10,227
Total Online Programs: 69
Online Bachelor's Programs: 20
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#5 Best Online Human Resources Degrees
University of Maryland Global Campus
- Adelphi, MD
- 4 years
- Online
The University of Maryland Global Campus, a public, four-year college, offers premier educational opportunities. The HR program is one of 31 online bachelor's degrees available through the institution. The BS in human resource management stands out as a competitive option for students interested in the HR field.
The human resources program enables flexible study. Students complete general and advanced coursework, with the opportunity to modify the curriculum. Students can work with their academic advisor to customize their courses.
When calculating the cost of a degree, students should note the current tuition rate of $11,976. Learners at the accredited institution can pursue funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships, to support their studies. Enrollees can expect to be awarded $4,484 in financial aid, on average.
University of Maryland Global Campus at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 52,298
Total Online Programs: 84
Online Bachelor's Programs: 31
Admission Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
90%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Why Get a Degree in Human Resources?
Earning this degree may lead to HR jobs that pay above-average salaries. HR specialists earn a median $62,290, according to the BLS. This figure surpasses the median annual salary of $45,760 for all occupations. Human resources managers earn $126,230.
Professionals who pursue human resources careers often find meaning in their work. HR professionals get to create functional and healthy work environments. They advocate for employees and create competitive benefits packages. These workers may also engage in conflict resolution practices.
Online human resources degrees provide convenience and flexibility. Many online programs run asynchronously. This format lets degree-seekers complete their studies around work and family.
How Much Does a Human Resources Degree Cost?
Online bachelor's degrees cost an average of $51,090, according to EducationData.org. However, cost varies by school and learners' residency status. Students attending public, in-state schools typically pay the most affordable tuition.
Master's degrees range from $30,000-$120,000. Students pursuing online human resources degrees can enroll in the most affordable program without relocating or commuting. This may help them save money on their degree.
Additional Online Student Fees
Some colleges waive fees for in-person services for online students. However, online enrollees typically pay the same fees as in-person students. Online degree-seekers should budget for extra expenses, like graduation or technology fees.
Learners pursuing human resources degrees online should also plan to buy books. Students can save money by buying used or digital versions. HR degree-seekers may also need to buy special software. Additionally, online students need a reliable computer and internet.
How Much Do Human Resources Majors Make?
Salaries vary for different human resources jobs. Many factors influence pay, including employer, geographic location, and years of experience. HR managers in New York earn a mean annual wage of $84,200. The same professionals in Ohio only earn $63,910.
HR managers with less than one year of experience earn an average of $54,000 annually, according to April 2022 Payscale data. The same professionals with more than 10 years of experience earn $77,000.
Courses in Human Resources Programs
An associate degree in human resources requires about 60 credits and takes full-time learners two years to finish. A bachelor's degree in this subject requires about 120 credits and takes four years to complete.
Earning a human resources degree online provides flexibility. Colleges may offer asynchronous or synchronous online classes. Some colleges provide a combination of both.
Many programs let HR degree-seekers choose a concentration. Some schools may refer to this as a specialization, minor, or track. Common concentrations include business administration and organizational leadership.
See below for three common classes in an online human resources program.
Employee Benefits
This class identifies common company perks. Learners compare and contrast benefits packages. They learn how to negotiate with insurance companies to provide employees with the best coverage. The class also examines how time off and remote working policies attract young talent.Conflict Resolution
Students learn how to mediate conflicts. They complete mock mediations to practice. The class also includes best practices for interpersonal communication. Learners discover how to mediate and settle disputes. They also learn how to prevent miscommunication and conflicts in the workplace.Leadership in the Human Resources Field
Enrollees learn how to ethically and effectively lead teams. They identify common leadership theories and methods. They also develop a framework for navigating ethical dilemmas. Degree-seekers study unions and laws that protect employee rights. They participate in class discussions and case study evaluations.
How to Become a Human Resources Specialist
Aspiring HR professionals need an undergraduate degree. Some employers hire human resources specialists who only hold an associate degree. These professionals usually work in assistant or specialist roles. Human resources management jobs typically require at least a bachelor's degree.
Graduates can apply for jobs after earning the required degree. Learners should create a resume that lists professional references and related experience. A cover letter may also help an application stand out.
The HR field does not require certification. However, earning certifications may help candidates stand out in a competitive job market or help them qualify for higher-paying jobs. The Society for Human Resource Management and the HR Certification Institute both offer certifications.
