What is Human Resources Management?
A human resource manager plays a vital role in any organization. They are responsible for overseeing the human resources department and handling all the activities related to employee management. They make sure the organization has the appropriate employees in each position. They oversee recruitment and selection efforts such as writing job descriptions, advertising positions online, reviewing resumes for candidates to fill them, conducting interviews, conducting background checks on prospective employees, conducting tests to measure aptitude, and selecting those best suited to join their organization. As you can see, they are a necessity, especially as companies grow larger and their workforce increases.
Once employees are hired, human resources managers may also be accountable for familiarizing them with their company's policies, procedures, and culture. They ensure all newcomers receive proper training as they transition into their new positions and they take on employee onboarding activities like completing paperwork for payroll setup or benefits enrollment.
Human resources managers are also responsible for employee engagement and retention. They develop and implement programs to enhance employee satisfaction and motivation. They organize employee events and initiatives such as team-building activities, employee recognition programs, and performance appraisal systems.
In addition to managing employee relations, human resources managers also handle employee grievances and disciplinary actions. They investigate complaints and conflicts and take appropriate measures to resolve them and ensure that the organization follows legal requirements and ethical standards in all employee-related matters.
Furthermore, human resources managers play a strategic role in organizational development. They work closely with top management to develop and implement HR strategies that align with the organization's goals and objectives. They provide advice and guidance on HR policies, labor laws, and industry best practices.
Online Human Resources Management Education in New Jersey
New Jersey, known as the Garden State, is located in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States. It is densely populated and highly industrialized, offering a diverse range of industries and job opportunities. And, as businesses continue to grow and evolve, the need for skilled human resources professionals becomes increasingly important.
Human resource management encompasses managing various aspects of employee relations such as recruitment, training and development, compensation and benefits, and employee engagement. HR professionals play a crucial role in ensuring organizations have in place talent, policies, and practices to best support their workforce. In New Jersey, there is a high demand for qualified HR professionals due to the continuous growth of industries such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, finance, technology, and manufacturing. These industries require HR expertise to manage their workforce effectively and ensure compliance with state and federal labor laws.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of May 2020, there were approximately 9,400 human resources managers employed in New Jersey. Additionally, there were around 18,060 human resources specialists and 7,690 training and development specialists in the state. These numbers reflect the significant presence of HR professionals and the opportunities available in this field.
Human resources professionals in New Jersey typically receive salaries that vary based on factors like experience, education, and organization size. According to BLS figures as of May 2020, the median annual wage for human resources managers in New Jersey was $153,730, which is significantly higher than the national median annual salary. Human resources specialists had median annual wages of $70,570, while training and development specialists saw median annual pay of $73,860 annually.
HR management is a vital field in New Jersey, supporting businesses and organizations across various industries. With a strong economy and a high demand for skilled HR professionals, pursuing a career in this field can offer rewarding opportunities. Whether you are interested in recruitment, employee development, or labor relations, a career in human resources management in New Jersey can be both fulfilling and financially rewarding.
Human resource management students interested in earning a degree from schools in New jersey will have plenty of options across the state. These options include Seton Hall University, Rutgers University - New Brunswick, Rowan University, Rider University, Strayer University - New Jersey, New Jersey City University, etc. Other human resource management schools include those in nearby states, such as Syracuse University in New York. Whether students are looking for undergraduate degrees or a human resources masters program, there are plenty of options focused on human resource management and labor relations, with both traditional and online programs available.
Online Associates (AS)
Human resource management is a crucial function within organizations, responsible for recruiting, hiring, training, and managing employees. To pursue a career in this field, some individuals choose to get started by earning an associate degree in human resource management. A human resource management program at this level provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices involved in effectively managing human capital.
An associate degree in human resource management typically covers a wide range of topics such as employment law, compensation and benefits administration, employee relations, organizational behavior, and recruitment strategies. Students may also be able to gain practical skills through hands-on experiences like case studies and internships. With this degree in hand, graduates can pursue entry-level positions in various industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, finance, or government agencies. However, it’s important to note that most industries and companies are looking for employees in management roles who have at least a bachelor’s degree. You may need to move your way up if you plan to start with an associate’s.
In addition to acquiring foundational knowledge about HR functions and practices, earning an associate degree in human resource management can also serve as a steppingstone for further education. Many students use this program as a starting point before pursuing a bachelor's or master's degree in HR or related fields. The coursework completed during an associate degree helps build a strong foundation that prepares students for more advanced studies and higher-level roles within HR departments.
Online Bachelors (BS)
Human resources management colleges and degree programs offer comprehensive education and training to students interested in pursuing a career in this field. A bachelor's degree in human resource management equips individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively manage an organization's most valuable asset: its employees. Students enrolled in such programs gain a deep understanding of various HR functions including recruitment, employee relations, compensation and benefits, training and development, performance management, and labor laws.
By obtaining a bachelor's degree in this field from an accredited college or university, graduates can position themselves for numerous job opportunities across industries. They can pursue roles such as HR specialists, talent acquisition managers, compensation analysts, training coordinators, or employee relations consultants. The curriculum of these programs often includes coursework on organizational behavior, employment law and regulations, strategic planning for human resources, diversity management, conflict resolution techniques, and human resource information systems (HRIS). Additionally, some programs may offer internship opportunities that allow students to gain practical experience before entering the workforce.
Online Masters (MS)
A master's degree in human resource management is a valuable qualification for professionals aiming to advance their career in the field of HR. Human resource management programs offer comprehensive courses designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in this dynamic industry. This includes areas such as employee recruitment and selection, performance management, compensation and benefits, training and development, labor relations, and organizational behavior. You could also earn an MBA with a human resource management concentration.
Students pursuing a master's degree in HR management gain a more in-depth understanding of the strategic role HR plays within organizations. They learn how to more effectively manage human capital, align HR practices with business objectives, and contribute to overall organizational success. These programs also often provide opportunities for hands-on learning through internships or case studies that enable students to apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios. Graduates of these programs are well-prepared to take on high-level leadership roles within HR departments or work as consultants providing strategic HR solutions to organizations across various industries.
Online Doctorate (PhD)
Human resource management is a critical function in any organization as it focuses on the effective utilization of human capital to achieve strategic business goals. Though a PhD in human resources or human resource management is not required for most business-related roles, you might earn this degree if you wish to move into an academic role. This advanced degree program equips students with comprehensive knowledge and skills to conduct empirical research and contribute to the development of HRM theory.
A PhD in human resource management typically requires students to complete coursework in various areas such as organizational behavior, employment law, compensation and benefits, talent management, and training and development. Students are also expected to develop expertise in research methodologies and statistical analysis techniques. These programs usually culminate with the completion of a dissertation that demonstrates the student's ability to conduct original research within the field of HRM.
By earning a PhD in human resource management, graduates gain an edge over their peers when it comes to pursuing high-level positions in academia or industry. This advanced degree provides access to opportunities for individuals who aspire to become scholars or researchers dedicated to advancing HRM knowledge through empirical studies.
Online Certifications
Human resource management certifications are an important aspect of professional development for individuals looking to establish a successful career in HR. These certifications, offered by various organizations and institutions, validate the knowledge and skills of HR professionals, and enhance their credibility in the field.
One popular certification is the Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification, which demonstrates mastery of core HR principles such as employee relations, compensation, and benefits administration. Another widely recognized certification is the Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional (SHRM-CP), which focuses on strategic planning, talent acquisition, and organizational development.
Having these certifications not only increases job prospects but also opens doors to higher earning potential. Employers often prefer candidates with certifications as it ensures they possess a comprehensive understanding of HR practices and can contribute effectively to their organization's success. Thus, obtaining human resource management certifications is essential for individuals seeking to excel in their HR careers. These certifications provide valuable credentials that validate expertise in various aspects of human resources while boosting professional credibility among employers. As competition continues to grow in this field, acquiring relevant certifications becomes increasingly necessary to stand out from the crowd and secure desirable job opportunities within reputable organizations.
Become a Human Resources Manager in New Jersey
If you have a passion for working with people and ensuring the success of organizations through effective employee management, then becoming a human resources manager might be the right path for you. If you're located in New Jersey, here are some steps you can take to pursue a career as a human resources manager.
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Step 1: Earn a Relevant Degree
The first step toward becoming a human resources manager is earning an education in human resources or a related field. Many universities and colleges in New Jersey offer bachelor's and master's degree programs focused on HRM or similar disciplines that offer knowledge in areas like organizational behavior, labor relations, compensation & benefits administration, and employment law.
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Step 2: Gain Relevant Experience
Acquiring a degree is integral to success in human resources; however, practical experience is equally critical. You may want to look for internships or part-time jobs within human resources departments for practical experience that will allow you to build essential skills and gain more knowledge of this industry.
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Step 3: Obtain Professional Certifications
Professional certifications in human resource can dramatically boost your career opportunities. Organizations such as the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) offer certifications such as SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) and Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP), which demonstrate your expertise in this area and give you an edge in job interviews.
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Step 4: Network with HR Professionals
Networking is essential to any career, including human resources management. You can take part in industry events, join professional HR organizations, and connect with HR professionals in New Jersey - networking can open doors to valuable connections, mentorship opportunities, and job openings.
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Step 5: Stay Updated on HR Laws and Regulations
Human resource management is an ever-evolving field, especially with regards to employment laws and regulations. To keep abreast of HR practices, trends, and legal requirements that pertain to you as an HR professional, you can subscribe to industry publications, attend seminars/workshops, and take advantage of online resources so as not to fall behind on developments.
What Can I Do with a Bachelor's in Human Resources Management?
Human resources management (HRM) is an essential field in today's organizations, and pursuing a bachelor's degree in HRM opens various career opportunities. Graduates with a bachelor's in human resource management can work as HR specialists or generalists, responsible for various tasks such as recruiting, hiring, training, and employee relations. They can also become HR coordinators or administrators, managing administrative duties like benefits administration and maintaining personnel records.
Furthermore, individuals with a bachelor's degree in HRM may choose to pursue roles as compensation and benefits analysts or managers. In these positions, they develop and administer compensation programs, analyze salary data to ensure competitiveness within the industry, and manage employee benefit programs, like healthcare plans and retirement savings accounts. Additionally, graduates can consider becoming training and development specialists where they design and deliver training programs to enhance employees' skills and knowledge.
Overall, with a bachelor's degree in this field, individuals can enter the job market prepared for diverse roles within the dynamic field of human resources.