What is Human Resources Management?
Human resources managers are responsible for overseeing the administrative functions of an organization, with a primary focus on managing the workforce. These human resource professionals can work in a wide range of industries, from healthcare and finance to manufacturing or government. Human resources managers are involved in everything from recruitment and hiring to performance management, training and development, benefits administration, employee relations, compliance with labor laws, and more.
To become a human resources manager, individuals typically need at least a bachelor's degree in human resources or a related field such as business or psychology. Many colleges and universities offer degrees in HR management that cover topics like organizational behavior, employment law, compensation strategies, conflict resolution techniques, labor relations, diversity management, and more. Some programs may also include hands-on experience through internships or co-op placements.
In addition to formal education requirements for HR managers vary depending on the industry they work in. Some organizations require certifications such as Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) Certified Professional (CP) or Senior Certified Professional (SCP), while others prefer candidates with advanced degrees like an MBA or master's degree in HR management. Depending on their career paths, those who choose to earn degrees in this field can earn an undergraduate certificate or a higher level certificate to boost their resume. Regardless of education level attained by human resource professionals, it is incredibly important that they possess strong communication skills, along with expert knowledge of company culture so that they can be effective at developing policies which foster positive workplace environments where employees feel valued as part of their employers’ team.
Featured Online Programs
Online Human Resources Management Education in Indiana
Human resources management programs are designed to prepare students for careers in the dynamic field of HR. These programs typically offer coursework in areas such as compensation, benefits administration, employee relations, performance management, and employment law. Students can choose from a variety of degree options ranging from associate degrees to master's degrees.
The most popular option is a bachelor's degree in human resources management, which typically takes four years to complete. Coursework covers topics such as organizational behavior, labor relations, and talent acquisition. Graduates with this degree can find work in HR departments across various industries such as healthcare, finance, or retail. The largest industries in Indiana include iron and steel manufacturing, the energy sector, pharmaceuticals, mining, and transportation. All of these industries need workers, and businesses with workers need to ensure that they follow labor laws and that they are able to answer any complaints or issues with hiring or compensation practices. This is where human resource professionals come in. Those with HR management degrees will be well placed to gain access to entry-level roles in the field and start to move up as they gain experience.
Prospective students looking to attend a university in Indiana can choose from private and public options including Indiana University - IU Bloomington, Purdue University, and more
Online Associates (AS)
An associate degree in human resources management is a two-year program that provides students with the basic knowledge and skills needed to enter the field of human resources. The coursework includes general education courses and core courses that cover a range of topics such as employment law, compensation and benefits, employee relations, recruitment, and training and development. Graduates can work in various HR roles like recruiter or HR coordinator.
Many colleges offer associate degrees with a human resource management major both online and on-campus. Online programs are a great option for those who need flexibility with their schedules or cannot attend classes on campus. Most programs require students to complete an internship or practicum to gain real-world experience working in the field of HR.
A career in human resources can be rewarding, as it involves working closely with people while also being involved in strategic decision-making within an organization. An associate degree is just the first step toward building a successful career in this field; many human resource professionals go on to earn higher degrees like bachelor's or master's degrees to advance their careers further.
National Online Rankings - 25 Best HR Associate ProgramsOnline Bachelors (BS)
Earning a bachelor's degree in human resources management prepares graduates for a career in managing the most valuable asset of any organization: its employees. The curriculum includes general education courses and also provides students with an understanding of employment laws, organizational behavior, compensation and benefits management, talent acquisition and development, and labor relations. These programs aim to develop critical thinking skills that enable graduates to apply solutions to real-world HR problems.
Colleges that offer this degree program teach students the necessary knowledge and skills to become competent human resource professionals. Furthermore, many institutions offer internships or work-study programs that allow students to gain practical experience while still in school. Graduates with a degree in human resource management can qualify for various positions such as recruitment specialist, employee relations manager, benefits coordinator, or HR generalist.
In conclusion, obtaining a bachelor’s degree in human resource management opens doors to endless opportunities within the field of HR. With the right combination of education and experience, graduates can expect an attractive salary package and advancement opportunities within their chosen profession.
National Online Rankings - 25 Best HR Bachelor's ProgramsFind Your Online Human Resources Management Program
Online Masters (MS)
A master's degree in human resources management is a great way to further your career in the field of HR. Many colleges and universities offer graduate programs in HRM that allow students to specialize in various areas such as recruitment, employee retention, compensation, and benefits. These programs typically require completion of core courses in HRM principles and practices along with elective courses that are tailored to your specific area of interest.
One major advantage of pursuing an advanced degree in HRM is the enhanced skills you will acquire. You will be exposed to the latest trends, technologies, and best practices related to human resource management. This knowledge can be applied immediately on the job, which makes you more valuable to your employer.
Another benefit of earning a master’s degree in HR management is increased earning potential. As companies continue to rely more heavily on their human resources departments for strategic planning and decision making, there has been an increase in demand for qualified professionals with advanced degrees. Graduates with a master’s degree are often able to command higher salaries than those without one, making it a solid investment for anyone looking to advance their career in this field.
National Online Rankings - 25 Best HR Master's Programs National Online Rankings - 25 Best HR MBA ProgramsOnline Doctorate (PhD)
Human resources management (HRM) is a growing field that requires specialized knowledge and experience. A PhD in human resource management can help professionals gain the advanced skills that are necessarily required to excel in a business role, but will be required for anyone who wants to gain tenure and teach at a college level. Many colleges and universities offer HRM degree programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, including online options for those who prefer flexibility.
A PhD program in HRM typically covers topics such as organizational behavior, employee development, compensation and benefits, strategic planning, labor relations, and diversity and inclusion. Students will also learn about research methods used in the field of human resources. The program usually includes coursework along with a dissertation requirement.
Graduates of a PhD program in HRM can pursue careers as consultants, professors or researchers at universities, or executives at corporations. With strong demand for skilled human resource professionals across industries ranging from healthcare to finance to education, earning a PhD in human resource management can open up many career opportunities for graduates.
Online Certifications
Human resource management certifications can help professionals advance their careers in the field of human resources. These certifications not only add credibility to a person's career profile but also provide an opportunity to learn and develop new skills. Some popular human resource management certifications include the Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification, Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification, and Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR) certification.
To earn these certifications, individuals must meet certain educational and professional requirements and pass an exam that tests their knowledge of various aspects of human resource management. Many colleges and universities offer degree programs that focus on human resource management in which students can acquire the necessary education to pursue these certifications. Some schools even have partnerships with organizations like SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management), which can provide additional resources and support to students interested in pursuing a career in HR. Ultimately, earning a degree or certification in HR is just the first step for professionals who want to gain expertise and enhance their credibility within the field.
Become a Human Resources Manager in Indiana
A human resources management degree is an invaluable asset in today’s job market. A degree program will help you to become an expert in law, labor relations, as well as leadership and other key topics related to personnel management. Here's a list of steps to take if you want to pursue a career in human resources management.
-
Step 1: Earn Your Bachelor’s Degree
The first step toward becoming a human resources manager is earning a bachelor’s degree. Most schools offer either a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science in Human Resources Management. To maximize your chances of success the curriculum should be tailored to involve the latest trends and best practices in HRM.
-
Step 2: Develop Essential Skills
Before you consider earning certifications, there are certain essential skills required for HR professionals such as problem solving, interpersonal communication, and collaborating with others effectively. You can develop these skills during your internship experiences or volunteer work with organizations related to HRM.
-
Step 3: Gain Experience
Gaining experience in your chosen field can put you ahead of other candidates when applying for jobs. Seek out opportunities that allow you to work directly with employers or shadowing current HR professionals who understand the process involved in recruiting new talent. Organizations may also have internships available that provide on-the-job training which can give you valuable insight into the world of human resource management.
-
Step 4: Get Certified by the Society for Human Resources Management
To be competitive for higher-level positions, it will be helpful to eventually gain certification from the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). This certification will demonstrate that you have the skills and knowledge necessary for taking on roles within a HR department. To earn this credential, applicants must pass SHRM’s written exam as well as obtain at least three years of industry-related experience.
Find Online Human Resources Management Programs
What Can I Do with a Bachelor's in Human Resources Management?
A bachelor's degree in human resource management sets graduates up for a variety of careers. HR professionals are responsible for recruiting, training, and retaining the best employees for their organizations. Graduates with this degree can pursue roles such as HR generalist, recruiter, benefits manager, or training specialist. These positions require a thorough understanding of labor laws and employment regulations.
Another option is pursuing specialties within the field such as industrial-organizational psychology or compensation systems and benefits management. These areas demand knowledge of advanced analytics tools to aid in decision-making processes to help organizations succeed. Alternatively, those interested in teaching may choose to pursue an education degree to teach human resources courses at the college level or work as a trainer within organizations.
Overall, earning a bachelor's degree in human resources management provides many different opportunities for graduates depending on their interests and skills. With companies recognizing the importance of talent acquisition and retention more than ever before, there has never been a better time to enter into this growing field.
Potential Careers for HR Graduates
- Dispatcher:
As the name implies, a dispatcher serves as a proactive link between the office and driver operations in transportation-based organizations. It’s up to the dispatcher to ensure that customer orders are fulfilled, materials are delivered on time, and drivers are assigned the right delivery details.
Necessary Requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Experience in dispatch or customer service roles preferred
- Knowledge of local geography and roads
- Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
- Proficient in computer programs and software related to dispatcher
Estimated Salary
- The mean annual wage for dispatchers (except police, fire, ambulance) in the US in 2021 was $46,650
- The mean annual wage for dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance in Indiana is $46,660
- Public Relations Specialists:
Public relations specialists are professionals who are responsible for maintaining and improving the public image of a business or organization. PR specialists plan and execute communication campaigns, handle press inquiries and work closely with the media to stay up to date with developing stories. They also collaborate with internal departments to create targeted messaging for different audiences. Furthermore, PR specialists should be excellent writers, persuasive communicators, and social media savvy so that they can effectively manage relationships between their employers and stakeholders.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in public relations or journalism preferred
- Proven experience in public relations or related field
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for public relations specialists in the US in 2021 was $62,800
- The mean annual wage for public relations specialists in Indiana is $60,290
- Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists:
Compensation, benefits, and job analysis specialists analyze jobs to determine the required skills, responsibilities, and knowledge for each position. They must be able to assess job duties in order to assess the correct compensation for each position. They also conduct research into salary trends in order to remain competitive with other employers, develop salary scales or reward procedures, design performance review systems, manage employee benefits programs such as retirement savings plans or health insurance offerings, and create customized training programs for employees when needed.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in human resources, business administration, or a related field
- Previous experience in a compensation or benefits role
- Excellent analytical skills with the ability to interpret data quickly and accurately
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for compensation, benefits, and job analysis specialists in the US in 2021 was $64,120
- The mean annual wage for compensation, benefits, and job analysis specialists in Indiana is $67,800
- Human Resources Specialists:
Human resources specialists are essential for any organization, large or small. They help ensure that personnel procedures such as hiring, training, and evaluating employees, and making decisions about termination and promotion, are conducted in a fair and legal manner.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in HR or related field
- Minimum 3 years of Human Resources experience
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for human resources specialists in the US in 2021 was $62,290
- The mean annual wage for human resources specialists in Indiana is $59,660
- Training and Development Managers:
The responsibilities of a training and development manager may vary depending on the organization, but generally include developing training programs for employees, predicting future training needs, monitoring trends in career development, managing employee evaluations and feedback, developing eLearning materials, or collaborating with other departments in order to create innovative learning experiences.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in Education, human resources, or a related field
- Proven experience as a Training and Development Manager or similar role
- Knowledge of instructional design theory and implementation
- Understanding of e-learning
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for training and development managers in the US in 2021 was $120,130
- The mean annual wage for training and development managers in Indiana is $115,490
- Business Operations Manager:
As a training and development manager, you will be expected to assess the training needs of employees on an individual or departmental basis to identify any gaps in skillset. After determining the needs of your team, you will work with other managers to create customized, individualized plans that address those needs. You will also be responsible for coordinating with vendors who provide external courses when applicable.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in business administration, management or equivalent
- Proven experience as an operations manager or similar role
- In-depth knowledge of organizational effectiveness and operations management best practices
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving and decision-making skills
Estimated Salary
- The mean annual wage for general and operations managers in the US in 2021 was $115,250
- The mean annual wage for general and operations managers in Indiana is $110,060
- Insurance Claims and Policy Processing Clerks:
Insurance claims and policy processing clerks are responsible for processing claims from policyholders, as well as providing customer service. They may initiate or respond to inquiries from customers, process or transfer payments, conduct research on claims or policies, provide support for agents or adjusters, verify information related to insurance contracts, and maintain client files. Generally speaking, these professionals enter data into a computer system in order to update policies or premiums.
Necessary Requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Understanding of insurance principles, regulations, and policies
- Excellent organizational skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to work independently and in a team environment
Estimated Salary
- The mean annual wage for insurance claims and policy processing clerks in the US in 2021 was $45,790
- The mean annual wage for insurance claims and policy processing clerks in Indiana is $43,450
- Compensation and Benefits Manager:
Compensation and benefits managers are responsible for overseeing the total pay structure of an organization or company, ensuring salary and benefit packages are equitable, compliant with industry regulations, and in accordance with internal guidelines. They monitor changing trends in the labor market to keep their organization competitive in recruiting, promoting diversity and alignment.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in human resources, business administration, or a related field
- 5+ years of experience in a similar role
- Knowledge of relevant laws and regulations
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for compensation and benefits managers in the US in 2021 was $127,530
- The mean annual wage for compensation and benefits managers in Indiana is $122,750
Search All Programs