Human Resources Bachelor’s Degree Programs

Find Colleges Offering a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources

If you’re interested in a career focused on managing people, improving workplaces, and helping organizations grow, a bachelor’s degree in human resources (HR) is a strong starting point. Human resources programs prepare you to handle key responsibilities like recruiting, training, employee relations, compensation, and workplace compliance.

A bachelor’s in HR is typically offered as a Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Science (BS), or Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), depending on the school. Programs often include coursework in employment law, organizational behavior, talent management, diversity and inclusion, and strategic HR planning.

You can learn more about the responsibilities and career outlook for HR professionals by visiting the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What You Can Expect from a Bachelor’s in Human Resources

Most programs require about 120 credits and take around four years to complete if attending full time. In addition to general business and communication classes, you’ll take HR-focused courses such as:

  • Human Resource Management
  • Labor and Employment Law
  • Compensation and Benefits
  • Organizational Development
  • Training and Development
  • Diversity and Inclusion Strategies
  • HR Analytics and Technology

Many schools also include internship opportunities, helping you gain real-world experience before graduating.

It’s a good idea to choose a program that meets industry standards. Some bachelor’s programs align with curriculum guidelines from the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), the largest professional association for HR practitioners.

Accreditation is another important factor. Business programs may be accredited by organizations like the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) or the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), which helps ensure the quality and recognition of your degree.

Career Opportunities After Earning Your Degree

A bachelor’s degree in HR can lead to entry-level and mid-level roles in almost any industry. Common job titles include:

  • Human Resources Specialist
  • Recruiter
  • Talent Acquisition Coordinator
  • Training and Development Specialist
  • Compensation and Benefits Analyst
  • Employee Relations Representative

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for human resources specialists was $64,240 in 2023. Human resources managers, which typically require more experience, earned a median salary of $130,000.

Online and In-Person Program Options

Many schools offer flexible formats to help fit your schedule, whether you prefer in-person classes or an online degree program. Online HR bachelor’s degrees are designed to cover the same topics as traditional programs, and many are structured for working adults who need to balance education with other responsibilities.

Some schools offering accredited online or hybrid human resources degrees include:

When reviewing schools, always check that the program is regionally accredited and, if available, aligned with SHRM’s academic guidelines.

Learn More

If you’re ready to take the next step toward a career in human resources, finding the right college or university is key. Explore our listings to compare programs, costs, learning formats, and admissions requirements so you can find the best fit for your goals.