Edited By Julian Palacio
Review & Contribution By Sophia Martinez
Transform organizations with an Associate Degree in Human Resources, mastering modern techniques to build thriving workplaces and propel businesses toward excellence and sustainable growth.
Human resources is a domain where professionals focus on recruiting and retaining employees within a company and handling the workforce of an organization. An associate degree in human resources generally focuses on real-world applications instead of human resource theories. It covers human relations, business ethics, training and development, compensation and benefits, human resource management, and more. An associate’s degree in this field can also be one of the first steps to getting a foundational education in human resources and transferring later to a four-year institution. The HR associates degree leads to roles as human resources assistant, payroll and timekeeping professional, human resource specialist, and more.
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Find the Best Associate Degree in Human Resources Programs
A good associate’s degree can make a huge difference in a student’s personal and professional career, giving them an initial understanding of human resources. They can evaluate factors like accrediting organizations providing credentials to the program, funding provided by the school, quality of faculty, student resources, and more. Using a unique ranking system, FBD teams have prepared a list of schools offering the best associate degree in human resources. Based on several critical components and our proprietary methodology, here is the list of the best online human resources associate programs
| Univ | Address |
| Minnesota State Community and Technical College | 1414 College Way, Fergus Falls, Minnesota 56537 |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from an Associate Degree in Human Resources
The associate degree in human resources is a two-year degree including foundational courses that help students understand how human resources professionals work with and advise employers and supervisors. It is generally a four-semester program of study that includes 24-60 credits of college-level general education courses, electives, and subject matter essentials to become an efficient worker in this domain. Many colleges offer this degree online, on-campus, and in hybrid learning modes. Sometimes is considered a transfer degree as well, as it can prepare a student to transfer to a four-year school. After graduating with an associate’s degree in human resources, individuals can take up positions including hiring coordinator, payroll coordinator, labor relations specialist, compensation, job analysis specialist, and more.
Curriculum and Coursework
The curriculum of this two-year degree covers the basics of the human resource field and gives students the foundational knowledge to gain entry-level positions. The coursework has different focuses; one part could include business classes like accounting, management, marketing, etc. Some HR-oriented courses concentrate on employment law, labor unions, compensation and benefits, training methods, recruitment, etc.
Essentials in a transfer degree program include completing projects to apply human resources theory. School requirements may include case studies, assignments, internships, and core courses like employment law and compensation. The program requirements could differ from school to school; however, students can find some standard courses across various curriculums, including
Introduction to Business
This course introduces students to different functions of modern business, understanding their existence in a changing society and the decisions required within such environments. They learn about various economic activities, including purchasing, selling, or producing services and goods, and are motivated to earn profit and meet customer needs.
Human Relations
This course on human relations teaches about social and interpersonal relations and adjustments within the intergroup. Students also study people’s behavior individually and in a group, specifically in workplace groups, and related concepts from organizational and industrial psychology.
Principles of Human Resources Management
In this course, students learn to uphold the basic foundational principles of human resource management. They understand how to maintain the core values of the field and manage workforce interaction. Some of the basic principles learned here include principles of individual growth, proper selection, equal participation, fair pay, incentives, and so on.
Organizational Behavior
This course explores the dynamics of human interaction within workplace structures. Students explore topics such as leadership, motivation, group dynamics, and organizational culture, gaining insight into fostering effective teamwork and optimizing individual and collective performance in diverse organizational settings.
Compensation Management
This comprehensive course helps determine employees’ appropriate benefits and pay. It increases students’ understanding of how to use financial and nonmonetary benefits to reduce turnover, spur performance, boost employee engagement, attract recruits, and more.
Some of the other standard courses students can find in the programs include:
- Introduction to Computers
- English Composition
- Introduction to Psychology
- Training Concepts
- Labor Unions
- Training and Development
- Staffing Principles
- Job Evaluation
- Diversity and Multiculturalism
- Human Resource Management
- Workplace Safety
- Organization Wellness
- Introduction to Sociology
- Employee Recruitment and Retention
Read the associate program guide for more information on associate degrees.
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
An associate’s degree in human resources equips individuals with essential abilities to navigate the dynamic landscape of workplace relations. Students nurture insights into building positive work environments, resolving conflicts with understanding, and encouraging collaboration. They develop a deeper understanding of human dynamics, fostering environments where employees and organizations thrive. A human resource associate’s degree can prepare individuals for entry-level resources by providing them with several skills like the ability to:
- convey information effectively and respond to the concerns and questions that job seekers, employees, and employers may have;
- use sound judgment to review candidates’ qualifications and resolve work disputes;
- pay attention to details when going through applicant’s qualifications, maintaining records of an employee grievance, and doing daily background checks;
- demonstrate understanding of workplace ethics and ensure everyone complies with labor standards;
- interact with other people and connect and converse with people from different backgrounds;
- demonstrate understanding of standard human resource management principles, including how organizations hire new employees;
- evaluate the performance of employees and motivate employees using various compensation strategies;
- demonstrate an understanding of labor relations that includes the interaction of company management and organized labor unions.
Types of Degrees Human Resources Students Can Obtain
The associate degree helps students get a foundation to pursue a bachelor’s program or enter the professional world. While most managerial positions require at least a bachelor’s degree, an associate’s degree can allow them to see if the human resource field fits them. If interested, they can transfer to a four-year undergraduate institution later. There are generally two types of an associate degree in human resources online: an associate of arts or AA and an associate of science or AS in the human resources domain.
Associate of Science or AS in human resources
This program helps students develop a practical skill set that they can use in most roles related to human resources. It builds on their economics, law, employment relations, and sociology knowledge. This degree is also suitable for those who want to excel in their current roles or want a career change.
Associate of Arts of AA in human resources
This degree helps students to build on critical competencies and principles that Society identifies for Human Resource Management. It includes foundational courses and is designed for those who want to land a job in human resources or those with specific interests in working with people.
Areas of Specialization for Human Resources Students
Specializations are the areas students choose based on their strengths and interests. While selecting specializations in human resources, they need to focus on their career prospects and interests in specific areas of human resources. Those pursuing an associate’s degree in human resources can consider specializations for their knowledge and further studies.
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| Organizational Management | In this specialization, students learn how to organize, plan, lead, and control different resources to achieve specific objectives in an organization. | Various roles as payroll executive, organizational development specialist, management information system, and more. |
| Labor Relations | The labor relations specialization studies human relations in the context of work, social inequality, employee rights, and more. It also examines different employment laws and regulations. | Various roles as employee relations partner, employee engagement role, head of human resources, labor relations specialist, human resource generalist, and more. |
| Talent Acquisition | This specialization involves learning about different tactics, processes, and strategies needed to recruit, identify, and retain human resources in an organization. | Various roles as a talent acquisition manager, onboarding analyst, and more. |
| Recruitment | Recruitment specialization includes understanding the screening process, hiring, and finding qualified candidates for the job. Students learn about the labor market, workforce pool, and challenges that occur during recruitment. | Various roles as a recruiter at different organizational hiring levels. |
| Compensation and Benefits | In this concentration, students understand far-reaching, competitive, and equitable compensation and benefits packages. They also explore consistent philosophies and principles of balance. | Roles as a Compensation and benefits manager at different levels. |
Full-Time and Part-Time Programs
The associate’s degree in human resources consists of 60 credits, depending on the program’s curriculum. It could take two years to complete the associate degree in human resource program if the student chooses to work in a full-time study mode. However, it will take longer if they earn their credentials part-time. The program is also available offline, online, or hybrid with both online and offline programs. Those working either part-time or full-time would prefer to complete the program online. The length of the human resource program would also depend on how many classes a student takes in a particular semester and the speed with which they complete the curriculum.
Accelerated Human Resources Programs
Accelerated Human Resources Programs condense traditional curriculum timelines, enabling students to complete their degrees faster. By offering intensive coursework and streamlined schedules, students gain industry-relevant knowledge swiftly. This approach allows for quicker entry into the workforce, reduced educational costs, and faster career advancement opportunities, meeting the demands of a dynamic HR landscape. Prospective students should inquire with the university admissions team about available accelerated programs.
Requirements for Getting into an Associate Degree in Human Resources
Different institutions have different requirements for entry into the program. The colleges list specific basic requirements the students must fulfill to be accepted into the program. In some colleges, they will be required to submit a short essay outlining their goals for the program. In addition, some schools require preparatory courses before starting the human resources associate degree online program like math, science, English, etc. Some of the standard requirements for an associate degree in human resources are listed below:
- Application form with prescribed fee
- Form of admission
- Statement of purpose
- High school transcripts
- Grade point average or GPA of 2.5 or more (some colleges accept a lesser GPA as well)
- English language proficiency (not required by all colleges)
- Statement of purpose or personal statement
- ACT and SAT scores (requirements different for different institutions)
- Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test or PSAT scores (may not be required by colleges)
How to Ensure an Associate Degree in Human Resources Program Is Accredited
Accreditation is a quality improvement and assurance process. This process is carried on by independent agencies where institutions verify the programs that meet or exceed the standards and norms prescribed by these regulating bodies from time to time. Therefore, while applying for an associate degree in human resources online programs, students should check up on the regional bodies governing their institutions or programs. Some of the accrediting bodies across the United States are listed below:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Students can refer to the accreditation database provided by the Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs, regulated by the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Postsecondary Education [2]. They check the list of institutions and programs recognized by accrediting agencies and agencies approved by the state.
Another national-level organization is the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, which focuses on quality assurance and higher education accreditation to refer to further guidelines on accreditation [3]. Students can also refer to the Guide to College Accreditation to further understand the accreditation process.
Where to Find Free Online Courses for Human Resources Associate Students
Many free online courses would facilitate a student’s better understanding of human resources. They could take such free classes to get an in-depth understanding of the subject. Prospective students should not consider these free courses equivalent to an associate degree as these are not accredited. Some of these free human resources courses are listed below:
| Course | Description | Provided by |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Management for Managers[1] | In this course, students learn to encourage, monitor, and positively improve the performance of their employees in the workplace. They also understand how to support their employees in creating and implementing goals, assessing and evaluating individuals’ performance, and creating a successful plan aligning with the company vision. | Udemy |
| Preparing to Manage Human Resources[2] | This course provides learners with a foundation to develop an approach to skillfully managing employees. It illustrates alternative strategies for managing human resources. Learners are also introduced to the importance of legal contexts and analyzing employee motivation. | Coursera |
| Onboarding New Hires as a Manager[3] | Through this course, learners understand their manager roles during the onboarding process. They learn about different contexts in which onboarding is done, and the information and activities employees engage in on their first day. |
Ways to Pay for an Associate Degree in Human Resources
The cost of an HR associates degree might stop students from pursuing the degree. The cost of an associate’s degree in the United States could range from $ 8,000 to $23,000. Many go for part-time and full-time jobs that help them fund their education. Additional expenses like fees, commuting costs, and so on increase the costs of the associate’s degree. Apart from these options, there are other funding possibilities that students can look for when pursuing an associate’s degree.
Grants
Grants can be awarded based on the student’s needs and merit. Different bodies, such as federal and state governments, educational institutions, and non-profit organizations, can give grants. Such grants do not need to be repaid.
Scholarships
Scholarships are a form of funding that will only need to be paid back if the student fails to meet the requirements under which they were given the scholarships. Different agencies, like community groups and state governments, also award such scholarships.
Private Student Loans
Students can take out personal and educational loans from banks, federal governments, and financial institutions. Students can refer to different grants. Donors who want help paying off their loans also have the option.
FAFSA
FAFSA, or The Free Application for Student Aid, is federal financial aid. It isn’t an aid but an application form that checks an individual’s eligibility to apply. Read the FAFSA student aid guide to understand eligibility and other information.
Read about financial aid to know how to pay for college.
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating
Human resource professionals handle the organization’s administrative duties. An associates degree in human resources helps individuals take entry-level positions in different fields and industries. Most of these professionals work part-time or full-time jobs. Some careers they can pursue with an associate degree include:
- Record Clerk
- Human resource Clerk
- Payroll Assistants
- Benefits Administrator
- Recruiting Assistant
- Operations Associate
- Training Coordinator
- Human Resources Administrator
Here are some occupations explained in detail:
| Occupation | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2031) | Job Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social and Human Service Assistants [4] | Time management, problem-solving, organizational, interpersonal, compassion, and communication skills. | $38,520 | 9% (much faster than average) | Social and human service assistants provide clients with support for their families in different fields, like rehabilitation, social work, and psychology. They help determine what aid their client requires and work with the client to assist in daily activities like bathing and eating. |
| Customer Service Representatives [5] | Communication, interpersonal, listening, patience, problem-solving, and customer service skills. | $37,780 | -5% (decline) | Customer service representative provide information about services and products. They also review customer accounts, make changes, and handle complaints and returns. These professionals also take orders, process payments, and calculate charges. |
| Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks [6] | Computer, detail-oriented, integrity, and math skills. | $45,860 | -6% (decline) | These professionals use bookkeeping software, databases, spreadsheets, and more to enter financial transactions into appropriate customer service. They receive and record cash, vouchers, and checks, reconciling and reporting differences they find in papers. |
| Bill and Account Collectors [7] | Listening, speaking, and negotiating skills. | $39,470 | -10% (decline) | Bill and account collectors find businesses and consumers with overdue bills, inform debtors about the same, and negotiate payments. They also explain the terms of contracts or sales with debtors when necessary and learn the reasons for overdue bills. |
| Secretaries and Administrative Assistants [8] | Decision-making, interpersonal, writing, and organizational skills. | $44,080 | -10% (decline) | Secretaries and administrative assistants who answer telephones, take important messages or transfer calls, and schedule appointments while updating event calendars. They also handle incoming and outgoing mail and memos. |
Certifications and Licensing for Human Resources Associate Graduates
Human resources is a dynamic field where employees must demonstrate knowledge and credibility to employers. Although certifications aren’t mandatory, pursuing them updates skills and best practices knowledge. Associate degree students benefit from acquiring certifications for advanced studies. Some of the certifications that an associate degree in human resources student can take up include
Organizational Development [9]
This certification increases a candidate’s understanding of organizational development and designs to become an efficient manager. It helps them gain expertise in the components of making your organization thrive. The certification provides knowledge of the HR Toolkit and principles of a sustainable organizational culture.
Associate Professional in Human Resources [10]
This certification helps candidates fast-track career growth. It is designed for human resource professionals just starting their journey and non-HR professionals. This certification teaches compliance and risk management, compensation and benefits, learning and development, talent acquisition, and employee relations.
SHRM Certified Professional [11]
This credential is for those individuals who perform general or specific HR-related duties and want to pursue different careers in Human Resource Management. It demonstrates their knowledge in three behavioral competency clusters and assesses their learning of situational judgment, leadership, and HR-specific knowledge.
Certified Human Resources Professional [12]
The Human Resources Professional Association offers a unique credential for certified human resources professionals. To be approved for this, candidates must cover nine subject areas relevant to human resources. It prepares the workforce and supports those who want to pursue careers in HR.
Human resource professionals do not need professional licenses; earning certifications is enough to demonstrate their competence and expertise in the job market.
Additional Resources for Human Resources Associate Graduates
Associate-level students may seek to build a better foundation in human resources. Therefore, by joining as members of various human resources organizations, they can avail many resources, courses, certifications, etc., that will help them understand how this field works. Some of the organizations that those pursuing an associate degree in human resources online can join include:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| Society for Human Resources Management | This organization offers its members many scholarships, certifications, and awards to help them advance their professional practice in human resource management. They discuss HR standards and competencies, metrics, legal issues, public policy, etc. |
| National Human Resources Association | The National Human Resources Association offers a unique database for developing HR-related positions across the United States. They publish many job postings on their website to help their members build careers. Members also receive many cloud-based HR resources that allow professionals to navigate the task. |
| International Association for Human Resources Information Management | IHRIM aims to create a world with technology related to human resources that will positively impact different stakeholders and organizations through their lifelong learning and supporting management of human resource information. They provide opportunities to partner and build relationships and connections with other professionals. |
| College and University Professional Association for Human Resources | This association is for HR professionals pursuing higher education. They provide leadership opportunities, explore challenges in the workforce, conduct research, monitor trends, and contribute to different strategic discussions amongst institutions. Members can access learning and development resources offered. |
| Human Capital Institute | HCI is an organization that provides learning solutions to help leaders and teams align human capital initiatives with an excellent organizational business strategy. Through interactions and activities, it offers learning experiences and facilitates connections among HR peers, experts, and colleagues. |
FAQs About an Associate Degree Human Resources
Is an associate’s degree in human resources online?
Many colleges and universities offer associate’s degrees in human resources online. These programs typically cover fundamental HR concepts such as recruitment, training, employee relations, and employment law. Online learning platforms facilitate flexibility, allowing students to balance education with other commitments while accessing course materials and lectures remotely.
Is there an accelerated associate degree in human resources?
How long does it take to complete an online associate’s in human resources?
Is an associate’s degree in human resources worth it?
What can you do with an HR associate degree?
Are human services and human resources different?
Can I collaborate with fellow students and faculty in an online associate’s human resources program?
Citations:
Performance Management for Managers- Udemy
Preparing to Manage Human Resources- Coursera
Onboarding New Hires as a Manager- LinkedIn
Social and U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Human Service Assistants
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Customer Service Representatives
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Bill and Account Collectors
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Secretaries and Administrative Assistants
Disclaimer:
The average tuition (based on degree type for in-state students), average graduation rates, and rankings are based on data from various sources, including the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), and are variable over time. All rankings and statistics are subject to change. The rankings are solely the opinion of Find Best Degrees (FBD) and are based on our proprietary methodology. They do not represent the views of the institutions or organizations mentioned, nor do they represent any official government census or survey. Furthermore, any views or opinions expressed on this page are of FBD’s researchers and teams. Unless otherwise specified, they do not represent the thoughts and opinions of the individuals, institutions, or organizations mentioned. This page’s content is provided solely for informational purposes, with data drawn from various sources, including IPEDS. FBD and its employees make no guarantees regarding the accuracy or completeness of any information found on this page or by following any link. FBD will not be held liable for any errors or omissions in this material nor any losses, injuries, or damages resulting from the exposure or use of this information. Although the information on this page is/was correct at the time of publication, readers should exercise caution because some or all of the provided information may have changed over time, potentially resulting in inaccuracies. For more information, please read our Terms of Service. Trademarks and logos are the property of their registered owners.