What is Human Resources?
Are you exploring human resource education in Virginia? Well, look no further. Virginia offers several high-quality traditional and online HR degrees designed to give flexibility and convenience without compromising educational excellence. No matter if you're just entering the job market or if you’re an established professional looking to advance your career further - these programs will equip you with all the skills required for success in the HR field.
Featured Online Programs
Top Ranked Campus & Online Human Resources Programs in Virginia
University of Richmond
Score: 87.39
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $62,600
- Out-of-State:$62,600
- Net Price: $29,248
- Acceptance Rate: 24%
- Retention Rate: 92%
- Graduation Rate: 88%
- Total Enrollment: 3,876
- Undergrad Students: 3,145
- Graduate Students: 731
- Grads Salary: $78,000
- Student-to-faculty: 8:1
Regent University
Score: 71.37
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $20,686
- Out-of-State:$20,686
- Net Price: $17,341
- Acceptance Rate: 32%
- Retention Rate: 70%
- Graduation Rate: 55%
- Total Enrollment: 10,337
- Undergrad Students: 4,541
- Graduate Students: 5,796
- Grads Salary: $63,000
- Student-to-faculty: 21:1
ECPI University
Score: 68.43
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $18,484
- Out-of-State:$18,484
- Net Price: $22,578
- Acceptance Rate: 83%
- Retention Rate: 51%
- Graduation Rate: 51%
- Total Enrollment: 11,740
- Undergrad Students: 11,399
- Graduate Students: 341
- Grads Salary: $71,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
Hampton University
Score: 66.23
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $29,162
- Out-of-State:$29,162
- Net Price: $32,421
- Acceptance Rate: 74%
- Retention Rate: 77%
- Graduation Rate: 46%
- Total Enrollment: 3,286
- Undergrad Students: 2,846
- Graduate Students: 440
- Grads Salary: $78,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Liberty University
Score: 62.75
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $21,222
- Out-of-State:$21,222
- Net Price: $29,913
- Acceptance Rate: 99%
- Retention Rate: 79%
- Graduation Rate: 66%
- Total Enrollment: 96,709
- Undergrad Students: 48,906
- Graduate Students: 47,803
- Grads Salary: $63,000
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Online Human Resources Education in Virginia
Virginia offers many excellent HR and human resources management degree programs. These programs cater to both traditional and online students, providing flexibility and convenience. Students can pursue either a bachelor's, master's, or even an MBA in human resources management; all three offer practical skills training designed to prepare future HR managers and align organizational and strategic goals, though which you choose will likely be affected by your previous education and experience.
Some of Virginia's premier HR management colleges include the University of Richmond, Marymount University, Regent University, George Mason University, ECPI University, Bridgewater College, Bryant & Stratton College, Strayer University Virginia Beach, and more. These degree offerings can give you comprehensive curricula and many have strong reputations in HR management. No matter if your preference lies with traditional classroom learning or online instruction, Virginia has what you need.
Online Certifications
Virginia's human resources management certificate programs also aim to equip professionals from different stages in their careers with the essential skills for success in HR management. The comprehensive curriculum for many of these certifications can cover training and development, compensation and benefits administration, labor management relations, and legal concepts associated with HR management.
Once certificate programs are completed, students are fully prepared to sit HR management certification examinations. Furthermore, certificate program credits may also apply toward some degree programs for further education in HR management. These certificate programs can represent an invaluable opportunity for those looking to enhance their HR management skills and advance their careers.
Online Programs in Virginia
Are you searching for an online human resources degree? For those pursuing their degrees but who also prefer online learning, several Virginia programs provide quality human resource degrees with flexible scheduling that make it all possible, even while meeting other commitments. These online degree programs may also allow you to study at your own pace.
Online human resources degree programs cover various aspects of HR management including training and development, compensation and benefits administration, labor relations, and legal aspects of HR management. By enrolling in one of these online degree programs, you can acquire all the skills and knowledge necessary to become successful in HR while taking advantage of its flexibility to study from any location.
Universities like Hampton University, Regent University, and others provide online human resources programs that give you an opportunity to earn your degree in HR and may also allow you to further your current career. Their convenient program formats enable busy professionals to benefit from these courses while fitting it around their busy lifestyles.
Benefits of Pursuing a Program Online
Pursuing an HR degree online offers many advantages. Online courses provide practical knowledge and real-life applications of HR practices that equip students with essential knowledge and abilities necessary to be successful in their professions. Some key advantages associated with earning a human resources degree online include the following.
- Convenience and Flexibility:
Online courses allow for flexible study times and schedules, making them an attractive option for working professionals or individuals juggling other commitments along with pursuing a degree. You can often access course materials and participate in discussions from anywhere at any time - making studying more manageable - Networking Opportunities:
Online courses can also present ample opportunities for networking and collaboration among professionals in your field. You can connect with fellow students, instructors, and industry experts through platforms, discussion boards, or virtual events and gain invaluable insights into various HR roles or industries. - Career Advancement:
Earning an online human resources degree can open doors to a host of professional roles related to HR management, from managers and specialists, training and development managers, compensation analysts, and labor relations specialists - to name but a few. Human resource professionals fill many pivotal roles in helping their organizations meet organizational goals by cultivating productive workforces. - Practical Skills and Knowledge:
Online HR courses often emphasize practical understanding and real-world applications of HR practices. You'll cover topics such as training and development, compensation and benefits administration, labor relations, legal aspects of HR management, and organizational change management - skills essential to effectively managing human resources and supporting the success of organizations.
Benefits of Pursuing a Human Resources Degree Online
- Flexibility and Convenience
- Networking Opportunities
- Career Advancement
- Practical Skills and Knowledge
HRM MBA Program
Professionals seeking to hone their HR management expertise may benefit from enrolling in an HRM MBA program. These programs combine core MBA classes with HR-specific classes for an in-depth knowledge of both business and HR principles - offering graduates of HRM MBA programs the knowledge needed to take on strategic roles within HR management departments and contribute toward overall organizational success.
| University | Program | Format | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Virginia | MBA with HR Concentration | Online | 2 years |
| George Mason University | HRM MBA | Online | 2-3 years |
| Virginia Commonwealth University | Professional MBA with HR Concentration | Online & On-campus | 2-3 years |
Requirements and Application Process
Before enrolling in any human resources degree programs in Virginia, it’s crucial that you fully comprehend both their requirements and application processes. Each program may have unique admissions criteria, so it's essential that they be reviewed thoroughly prior to applying.
Undergraduate degree programs generally require applicants to submit an application, along with official transcripts from high school and any previous higher education institutions attended. Some programs may also request scores on standardized tests like the SAT or ACT; certain programs may also have prerequisite courses or minimum GPA requirements that need to be fulfilled before proceeding with enrollment.
Find Online Human Resources Management Programs
Graduate degree programs often require you to submit official transcripts from previous institutions attended, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement as part of their application process. Some programs also may require standardized test scores, such as GRE or GMAT scores, as part of this application process – it’s therefore crucial that you check each program's admission requirements to make sure you meet them before making your choice.
Undergraduate Programs:
| Requirement | |
|---|---|
| Official Transcripts | Submit official high school or college transcripts |
| Standardized Test Scores | SAT or ACT scores may be required |
| Prerequisite Courses | Specific courses may be required prior to admission |
| Minimum GPA | Some programs may have a minimum GPA requirement |
Graduate Programs:
| Requirement | |
|---|---|
| Official Transcripts | Submit official transcripts from all previous institutions |
| Letters of Recommendation | Provide letters of recommendation from academic or professional sources |
| Personal Statement | Write a personal statement describing your goals and motivations for pursuing a graduate degree in human resources |
| Standardized Test Scores | GRE or GMAT scores may be required |
Once you have collected all the documents needed to submit an application, either online or by mail, make sure to review any deadlines associated with each program and allow yourself enough time for submission. Transcripts may either go directly to a university or through an intermediary service like Transcript Network; always keep copies for yourself for record purposes.
Potential Careers for Graduates
Earning a human resources degree opens doors to an abundance of employment possibilities across industries. Your human resources degree could take you in exciting directions such as HR manager, HR specialist, training and development manager, compensation and benefits analyst, or labor relations specialist roles - just to name a few!
Development
One career option available with a human resources degree is human resource development. You'd be responsible for designing and implementing training programs designed to build employee skills, increase performance, and support career advancement. Working closely with employees and management to identify training needs and create strategies to bridge skill gaps is also part of this role. HRD professionals play a crucial part in nurturing talent within organizations while creating skilled labor force environments.
Information Systems
Another field where your human resources degree can be put to good use is Human Resource Information Systems (HRIS). HRIS professionals are charged with overseeing and optimizing HR systems and processes such as payroll, benefits administration, employee records management, and performance evaluation. HRIS specialists utilize technology and data analysis effectively in their operations, ensuring smooth functioning HR operations through safe practices; professionals with HRIS expertise are therefore increasingly sought-after as technology becomes an integral component of HR management.
Earning a human resources degree offers you many career options in different industries such as healthcare, finance, technology, and manufacturing. Graduates of human resources programs possess the knowledge to contribute toward creating productive workforces and reaching organizational goals by managing HR capital efficiently while also driving employee engagement, cultivating positive workplace environments, and supporting career development of employees.
| Career Opportunities | Median Annual Salary | Projected Job Growth |
|---|---|---|
| HR Manager | $130,000 | Expected job growth of 5% from 2022-2032 Faster than average) |
| HR Specialist | $64,240 | Expected job growth of 6% from 2022-2032 (Faster than average) |
| Training and Development Manager | $120,000 | Expected job growth of 6% from 2022-2032 (Faster than average) |
| Compensation and Benefits Analyst | $67,780 | Expected job growth of 7% from 2022-2032 (Faster than average) |
| Labor Relations Specialist | $82,010 | Expected job growth of -1% from 2022-2032 (Little or no change) |
Salary and Job Prospects for Graduates
Human resources professionals play a pivotal role in managing an organization's most valued resource: its people. With an increased emphasis on human capital management, as well as cultural and strategic perspectives being recognized, the demand for skilled HR professionals continues to increase rapidly - creating promising career prospects across industries by earning a human resources degree.
Industry data indicates a positive growth outlook for HR managers in today's highly competitive business world, reflecting their increasing importance. Organizations understand the significance of effective HR management for recruiting and retaining top talent; HR professionals with expertise in human capital management and strategic perspective are highly sought after. This demand results in lucrative salaries; with median annual wages for human resource managers in the United States typically, totaling approximately $147,000 per year.
Careers in human resources offer both financial rewards and the chance to have a lasting effect on a workforce and contribute significantly toward organizational success.
Career Path
Graduates who earn human resources degrees can explore multiple career options in options such as HR management, training and development, compensation analysis, labor relations, and more. Human resource professionals play a vital role in creating positive work environments while adhering to employment laws, setting organizational goals appropriately, aligning HR policies with organizational needs, and aligning HR policies with workforce planning for organizational expansion.
Job Outlook
Human resources graduates can expect an upbeat job outlook across industries as businesses recognize the value of strategic HR management to enhance employee productivity and organizational success, driving an upswing in demand for skilled HR professionals specializing in HR practices. Graduates holding human resources degrees can expect excellent career prospects with plenty of room for advancement opportunities.
An undergraduate human resources degree equips graduates with the knowledge and skills required to thrive in the ever-evolving world of HR management. From lucrative salaries to promising job prospects, human resource careers offer both financial rewards and meaningful contributions to their company and industry.
Accreditation and Certification in Human Resources
Accreditation and certification are essential components of human resources practice, showing dedication to professionalism and expertise. The Society for Human Resource Management's HRM Certification serves as a valuable credential for HR professionals; validating knowledge and skills required for excelling in HR practices and improving career prospects. Those in their final year of studies who meet certain criteria can sit for the SHRM Certified Professional exam to receive this coveted designation. SHRM's Human Resource Management Certification is an invaluable credential that showcases expertise in HR. Earning one will add credibility to your resume and open doors for new career opportunities.
Accreditation is another essential consideration when selecting a human resources program. The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) grants MBA accreditation programs that meet stringent quality and educational excellence standards. An ACBSP-accredited MBA in human resources gives students the confidence that their degree program has undergone extensive analysis against industry standards and can definitely equip them to succeed on the job.
ACBSP Accredited MBA
Choosing an ACBSP-accredited MBA program ensures that you will receive a high-quality education aligning with industry standards, setting you apart from other candidates and equipping you for leadership roles in human resources.
| Certification/Accreditation | Issuing Body | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Human Resource Management Certification | Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) | Validates knowledge and skills in HR management |
| ACBSP Accreditation | Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) | Ensures quality and educational excellence in HR MBA programs |
Employing Human Resource Management Certification and an ACBSP-accredited MBA program are invaluable steps toward building a rewarding HR career. Both credentials can increase your professional profile, demonstrate commitment to the field, and equip you with knowledge and skills essential to success in today's ever-evolving HR environment.
Tuition and Financial Aid
When choosing a human resource management program, it’s essential to factor in the costs of tuition. Tuition fees vary depending on both the institution and format (online vs on-campus). However, financial aid options exist to reduce tuition costs. Many institutions provide scholarships, grants, and loans for all students and/or tailored specifically for HRM degree-seekers - these financial packages may prove invaluable in funding your education.
Consider exploring financial aid options early and apply for them promptly. Each institution typically has a designated financial aid office which can offer guidance and support when it comes to financing any degree program. By taking advantage of available financial aid and scholarships, your educational journey could become much more affordable and accessible, enabling you to focus more fully on pursuing your studies and career goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How flexible are certificate programs?
These programs often allow for flexible courses, enabling students to earn certification by taking a variety of online courses, and may even count degree credit hours toward certification in some cases.
What are some of the top-rated human resource management degree programs in Virginia?
Virginia boasts some of the nation's premier colleges. Those that offer HR degrees include University of Richmond, Marymount University, Regent University, George Mason University, ECPI University, Bridgewater College, Bryant & Stratton College, Strayer University – Virginia, etc.
Are there any online human resources degree programs in Virginia?
Yes, Virginia offers several such degrees online such as those from Hampton University and Regent University. Students interested in attending online programs from another state while staying in Virginia may consider Southern New Hampshire University and other colleges and universities with relevant degrees.
What careers can be found with a human resources degree?
Graduates of human resources programs may pursue careers as HR managers, HR specialists, training and development managers, compensation and benefits analysts, labor relations specialists, and many others.
What are the job prospects and salary expectations of human resources graduates?
Job prospects for HR managers are positive, with an increase in jobs available through 2032; median annual pay in this profession averages approximately $137,000.