Human Resources Management Degrees in Texas - Best Programs for 2024

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What is Human Resources?

Texas is home to numerous colleges and universities offering higher education degree programs in human resources management and other related fields. Those who pursue this area of study typically gain the knowledge and skills needed to manage personnel and benefits programs for companies across various industries. Professionals in this field tend to be highly sought after, especially in the business, finance, education, and healthcare sectors.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for human resources managers is projected to grow 5% from 2022 to 2032. This is faster than the average for all occupations in the nation and will result in about 15,500 job openings each year. The job outlook for human resources specialists is slightly better, however. Employment for this profession is expected to increase by 6% from 2022 to 2032, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This will result in approximately 78,700 relevant job openings each year. While these are often considered entry-level positions, they do provide a good means of employment for graduates.

Professional and business services is the second largest industry in Texas, accounting for $212.4 billion in revenue each year. Individuals skilled in human resources may also be able to find work in other top sectors within the state. These include manufacturing, real estate, mining, wholesale, education, healthcare, finance, retail, construction, and transportation.

Based on data provided by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Texas employed 16,280 human resources managers and 75,660 human resources specialists as of May 2022. The annual mean wage reported for these jobs ranged between $67,840 and $136,820. Even the lower end of this income scale is above the state’s annual mean wage of $57,300 for all occupations.

Those planning to enroll in human resource management degree programs should realize that institutional location matters. While traditional and online programs are available at colleges and universities across the United States, including business schools or college of business options, those who intend to seek employment in Rhode Island may benefit most from enrolling locally. Schools in the state will deliver education that is geographically pertinent, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to meet the standards and expectations of employers in the region.

Human resource managers are crucial to the success of organizations. Invaluable, HR professionals have the knowledge and skills needed to successfully navigate the complex terrain of workforce management. Not only do they often oversee the recruitment process, from identifying staffing needs to conducting interviews and onboarding new hires, but they also managing employee relations, mediating conflicts and facilitating effective communication. With a keen eye on compliance, human resources managers also ensure adherence to labor laws and company policies, minimizing legal risks for their employers.

Additionally, it’s frequently the responsibility of human resources manages to ensure HR practices align with broader business objectives, contributing to long-term success. Analytical skills are paramount as these professionals spend a significant amount of time assessing workforce trends before recommending adjustments to enhance efficiency. Another common task is overseeing employee benefit programs such as compensation, healthcare, and other perks. In some cases, talent development is also a priority. This typically involves training initiatives and performance management to nurture employee growth.

This role demands strong interpersonal skills as human resources managers are key to fostering positive workplace cultures. Their multifaceted responsibilities extend to organizational development, where they help shape employee dynamics. In essence, these professionals are often the architects of a harmonious, compliant, and productive work environment, embodying the integral link between employees and the overarching success of an organization.

Notably, it is possible for human resources managers to specialize in one or two aspects of the field.

Some popular areas of expertise include:

Compensation and Benefits Managers
Training and Development Managers
Labor Relations Directors
Employee Relations Managers
Payroll Managers
Recruiting Managers
Staffing Managers

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Online Human Resources Education in Texas

In South Carolina, and across the United States, colleges and universities offer academic degrees in human resources management and other related subjects. Prospective students enjoy flexibility when selecting programs, with options for in-person and online enrollment at the associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels.

Notably, education standards for human resources professionals can vary among employers. While entry-level positions might be accessible to candidates with high school diplomas or GEDs, such opportunities are relatively rare. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, candidates in this field typically possess bachelor's degrees in human resources or related majors. Some acceptable alternative major areas of study include business, communication, or psychology.

Online Associate Degree in Human Resources (AS)

An associate human resources degree generally consists of 60 credit hours of coursework that take full-time students approximately two years to complete. Undergraduate programs differ, commonly blending general liberal arts education with specialized courses in the chosen major. This approach allows students to delve into important communication, mathematics, and social science topics, alongside subject matter pertinent to their field. This not only fosters a comprehensive educational foundation useful for further study but prepares those enrolled for entry-level professional employment. Those studying human resource management, in particular, typically receive a broad introduction to the field that includes instruction in talent acquisition, labor laws, conflict resolution, and compensation benefits. Students can typically expect to receive a well-rounded understanding of many key facets of human resources.

Notably, individuals holding associate degrees may not meet the qualifications for human resources manager positions. However, they can explore opportunities as human resources assistants, associates, or administrative assistants. As many employers favor candidates with bachelor’s degrees, it’s common for graduates opt to seek advanced education opportunities to enhance their overall career prospects.

It's also worth mentioning that undergraduate credits are transferrable and can often help fulfill requirements for new baccalaureate degree programs. With colleges and universities commonly accepting up to 60 or 90 hours of prior coursework, associate degree holders may be able to have all of their first two years of undergraduate study applied. As a result, only an additional two years of education may be needed to achieve bachelor’s degrees.

National rankings - top 25 online associates in human resoruces management

Online Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources Management (BS or BHRM)

A bachelor’s human resources degree often consists of 120 credit hours of coursework that take full-time students approximately four years to complete. Undergraduate programs differ, commonly blending general liberal arts education with specialized courses in the chosen major. This approach allows students to delve into important communication, mathematics, and social science topics, alongside subject matter pertinent to their field. This not only fosters a comprehensive educational foundation useful for further study but prepares those enrolled for entry-level professional employment. Those studying human resource management courses, in particular, typically receive a broad introduction to the most important subjects in the field. This usually includes business, accounting, team building, organizational psychology, and conflict resolution techniques.

Notably, human resources management majors are often prompted by their academic institutions to pursue concentrations or specialized areas of study. This additional focus on a specific sub-field can assist students in preparing for distinct employment opportunities upon graduation.

Some common concentrations that may be available include:

Business Administration
Healthcare
Accounting
Data Science
Organizational Leadership

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the standard minimum education requirement for most human resource management professions is a bachelor’s degree. Graduates are typically prepared for employment as corporate recruiters, compensation and benefits managers, and training and development specialists.

Alternatively, graduates have the option to advance their education in the field by enrolling in graduate school. While not always essential for employment, pursuing advanced degrees can markedly enhance overall job prospects and result in higher pay. Those aspiring to enroll in master's degree programs must be prepared to furnish official undergraduate transcripts to prospective institutions, as well as meeting specific minimum grade point average (GPA) and Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) score criteria.

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Online Master's Degree in Human Resources Management (MS or MHRM)

Master’s degrees in human resources management generally range from 30 to 36 credit hours of coursework that take full-time students approximately two to three years to complete. Graduate-level programs no longer feature general liberal arts classes. However, prospective students are often required to successfully complete specific undergraduate courses, or prerequisites, before gaining admission. This ensures that all incoming students possess the foundational knowledge and skills essential for advanced study in the field.

Graduate degree programs play a crucial role to prepare students for advanced employment opportunities through experiential learning and courses in occupational safety, job analysis, the global economy, managing people, and various marketable skills in the HR field. Although course requirements may vary, participants often receive comprehensive training in areas such as business strategy, organizational change management, organizational ethics, effective team leadership, personnel staffing, and worker evaluation. Students are also likely to study human resources strategy, organizational culture, and talent management. Those who need more of a foundation in business courses may instead opt to earn a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a human resource concentration. Either option can improve your career opportunities and provide networking opportunities, which can give you a competitive advantage over other job applicants.

After completing their studies, graduates frequently qualify for roles such as human resources managers, compensation and benefits managers, senior human resources managers, labor relations specialists, human resources information systems managers, and other managerial positions across various industries.

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Online PhD Degree in Human Resources (PhD)

A PhD or doctorate in human resources management generally consists of between 60 and 120 credit hours that take full-time students up to seven years to complete. Being terminal degrees, these programs maintain high academic standards. Although curriculums differ among institutions, they usually provide a chance to delve into advanced subjects like compensation management, human resources theory and practice foundations, talent recruitment and retention, organizational behavior and performance, and the establishment of adaptive workplaces.

Moreover, human resource management majors at specific educational institutions may be able to select concentrations. Choosing to specialize in a particular sub-field can equip students for specific employment opportunities post-graduation.

Numerous colleges and universities provide the option, with concentrations frequently available in:

Human Resource Management
Organizational Management
Training and Development
Benefits and Compensation
Higher Education

During the initial stage of enrollment, students usually experience traditional classroom instruction that gradually transitions into independent study and research in subsequent years. Doctoral degrees typically culminate in the development, presentation, and defense of dissertations before a panel of professors specializing in computer information technology.

These advanced degrees equip graduates for high-quality job prospects in the field, opening doors to roles such as postsecondary educators, human resources consultants, and industrial/organizational psychologists.

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Become a Human Resources Manager in Texas

Securing a human resources manager role in Texas typically requires a degree and several years of relevant work experience. The degree level necessary varies based on employer preferences, with some companies accepting candidates with bachelor's degrees and others mandating applicants possess master's degrees. Being familiar with these expectations can help inform your decision when choosing between applicable academic programs.

Degrees in human resources are common for human resources managers, but alternative fields like business, communications, and psychology can be equally suitable at the undergraduate level. For those pursuing graduate studies, majors in labor relations and business administration are most applicable. Regardless of the program title, students interested in this field will benefit from courses in conflict management and resolution.

Upon completing the necessary degree program(s), you can pursue employment in various human resources positions. Achieving the managerial title typically takes time, however, as several years of relevant work experience are generally required. To meet this standard, it’s common for professionals in this field to initially work in roles such as human resources specialists or labor relations specialists before advancing to managerial positions.

Human resource management professionals also often pursue certification. This is a common practice that, while not always mandatory, enhances credibility and expertise in the field. Additionally, employers often prefer candidates with such credentials, leading to improved job prospects and the potential for higher pay. Notably, you will typically have the flexibility to choose certifications based on personal interests and career goals, as there is no single most important credential.

Various professional associations and organizations such as the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), HR Certification Institute (HRCI), and International Foundation of Employment Benefit Plans provide certifications for human resources managers. It’s always important to ensure the credibility of other groups offering credentials before submitting applications.

Some of the most popular certifications available to human resources managers include:

Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) via SHRM
Society for Human Resources Senior Management Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) via SHRM
Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) via the Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA)
Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP) via Association for Talent Development (ATD)
Professional in Human Resources (PHR) via the Human Resources Certification Institute (HRCI)
Talent Management Practitioner (TMP)
Strategic Human Resources Leadership (SHRL) via the Human Capital Institute

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Careers for Human Resources Graduates

Compensation and Benefits Manager

Compensation and benefits managers are integral to the functionality of human resources within companies, often overseeing the development and administration of employee compensation packages. This role involves designing and implementing benefit programs, managing budgets, and collaborating with executives to align compensation strategies with organizational goals. These professionals spend a lot of time analyzing market trends in order to ensure competitive pay structures and benefits to attract and retain talent. Attention to detail, analytical skills, and knowledge of labor laws are crucial for successfully navigating the complexities of this position9q. According to PayScale, compensation and benefits managers make an average base salary of $88,097 per year.

Human Resources (HR) Assistant

HR assistants provide essential support in a wide variety of functions. They assist with administrative tasks including maintaining employee records, processing documentation, and managing databases. They also facilitate communication between employees and management, addressing inquiries and helping with onboarding processes. Attention to detail and organizational skills are crucial to contribute to the smooth operation of HR activities. They are also integral to maintaining personnel records and ensuring compliance with policies and procedures. According to PayScale, HR assistants make an average base salary of $42,661 per year.

Human Resources (HR) Manager

HR managers oversee the strategic implementation of policies and programs for organizations. They often collaborate with leadership to align best practices with business goals, ensuring a productive and compliant workforce. These professionals are also typically involved in recruitment, staff development, and employee relations. Their role is instrumental in fostering positive workplace cultures, resolving conflicts, and managing benefits and compensation. Strong leadership and communication skills are vital for success in this position. According to PayScale, human resources managers make an average base salary of $70,245 per year.

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Labor Relations Specialist

Labor relations specialists play a vital role in fostering positive employer-employee relationships, often by managing negotiations and ensuring compliance with labor laws. They are frequently responsible for mediating disputes, interpreting labor contracts, and collaborating with management to develop effective personnel policies. These professionals strive to create a harmonious work environment, balancing the interests of both employers and employees. Strong communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills are crucial in addressing labor-related issues and facilitating productive workplace interactions. According to PayScale, insurance labor relations specialists make an average base salary of $73,764 per year.

Legal Secretary

Legal secretaries provide crucial administrative support in law offices, handling various tasks to ensure smooth legal operations. Their responsibilities include preparing legal documents, maintaining case files, scheduling appointments, and managing correspondence. Proficiency in legal terminology, document preparation software, and organizational skills are all essential. They commonly contribute to the efficiency of legal proceedings, enabling attorneys and legal professionals to focus on legal tasks while ensuring administrative aspects are meticulously managed. According to PayScale, legal secretaries make an average base salary of $57,697 per year.

Training and Development Specialist

Training and development specialists play a crucial role in enhancing organizational performance by designing and implementing training programs. They assess employee needs, develop training materials, and facilitate workshops to improve skills and knowledge. These professionals also evaluate the effectiveness of training initiatives, adapting programs to meet evolving organizational goals. Their efforts contribute to workforce development, employee engagement, and the overall success of businesses by ensuring that personnel possess the skills necessary for optimal job performance. According to PayScale, training and development specialists make an average base salary of $58,520 per year.

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How to Become a Human Resources Manager in Texas