Degrees and certifications human resources managers need
Human resources (HR) managers build strong teams, create workplace culture and oversee smooth organizational operations. Those are big shoes to fill, but the rewards, both in salary and satisfaction, can be great. To ensure your success, education and professional certifications play big part in your career development.
Ready to start your career or move up in HR? We have the programs you're looking for.
What does a human resources manager do
HR managers are responsible for overseeing an organization’s personnel needs. Their day-to-day tasks include:
- Recruiting and onboarding employees.
- Managing employee relations and conflict resolution.
- Developing and implementing workplace policies.
- Overseeing payroll and benefits programs.
- Ensuring compliance with labor laws and standards.
Education and certification in HR management
HR professionals are problem-solvers, exceptional communicators and must know industry laws and regulations. Your bachelor’s degree will give you this knowledge and often a chance for hands-on learning while you you’re a student.
Human resources certifications validate advanced skills and dedication to the profession. They are crucial for building credibility in such a people-focused role.
Can you earn your HR degrees and certifications online?
Yes, it is possible to complete both your HR degree and certifications online. Many universities offer both a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in Human Resource Management online. What you learn here prepares you for your career and the exams for entry-level and advanced-level certifications.
Certifications are often based on self-study. You meet the requirements to take the certification test – usually education plus experience in human resources – then study online or in face-to-face courses. Once you feel confident that you know the material, you schedule your exam. The test you’ll take is often in person, takes several hours and you’ll get your results right away.
What's the best HR degree?
Bachelor’s degree in HR or related fields
Most HR careers begin with a bachelor’s degree, typically in Human Resources Management, Personnel Management, Business Administration, Psychology or a related field. These programs teach the fundamentals of HR, including hiring, employee development, labor relations and organizational behavior.
Advanced degrees in human resources
While a bachelor’s degree is often enough to begin your HR career, many professionals choose to go on to advanced degrees such as a Master’s in Human Resources (MHR) or a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a specialization in HR. These degrees are valuable if you’re interested in HR management or directors’ positions.
What's the best HR certification?
When choosing the right HR certification, it's essential to consider your career stage, goals, employer preferences and global recognition.
- Career stage – Are you just starting your HR career, or have you gained some experience? Choose a certification suitable for beginners, mid-level professionals or those aiming for senior HR roles.
- Career goals – Determine whether you want to specialize in day-to-day HR operations or aspire to become a strategic HR leader, guiding organizations to achieve their goals through people management.
- Employer preferences – Research which certifications are highly valued by companies in your region or industry. Different certifications may hold varying levels of importance and relevance to potential employers.
- Global recognition – Consider whether you plan to work primarily within your local region or think about international HR opportunities. Some certifications, like the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), are recognized worldwide, while others, like the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI), have a stronger following within the United States.
Two of the most recognized certification bodies are HRCI (Human Resource Certification Institute) and SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management). They offer a range of certifications tailored to HR professionals at different career stages.
Certifications for entry-level HR professionals
- aPHR (Associate Professional in Human Resources): Best for those just starting out in the field.
- SHRM-CP (Certified Professional): Focused on operational aspects of HR management.
Both of these certifications are designed for people just starting their career in Human Resource Management. The aPHR is traditionally focused on technical and operational HR management and is administered by HRCI, while the SHRM-CP is broader, focusing on competency-based learning that incorporates leadership and behavioral skills. Which is better for you depends on your career goals:
- Pick aPHR if you prefer a technical emphasis on laws, regulations and program management.
- Pick SHRM-CP if you’re interested in leadership development and strategic HR planning.
Certifications for mid- and senior-level HR professionals
- PHR (Professional in Human Resources): Ideal for HR professionals with experience in program implementation and management. This is the mid-level of the 3-step PHR system.
- SPHR (Senior Professional in Human Resources): Focused on the strategic aspects of HR leadership.
- SHRM-SCP (Senior Certified Professional): Designed for senior practitioners tackling strategic HR planning.
Both SPHR and SHRM-SCP are designed for senior professionals, but there are differences.
- SPHR by HRCI emphasizes process-oriented expertise, such as policy creation and workforce planning.
- SHRM-SCP focuses on leadership and influencing strategic HR decisions.
Is SHRM certification worth it?
Absolutely! SHRM certifications are widely recognized and respected globally. They focus on real-world applications of HR and align with modern workplace needs, making them an asset to your career. Having a SHRM certification improves your credibility and opens doors to advancement opportunities.
Central Michigan University’s paths to a career in HR
At the bachelor’s degree level, our College of Business Administration offers a major in Human Resource Management.
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a major in Human Resource Management
- You’ll learn business fundamentals plus focus on HR and recruitment, compensation, training, labor relations and more.
- You’ll get hands-on experience in the field as you collaborate with Michigan companies as part of your regular classes.
- You can join our student chapter of SHRM and start building your professional network. Networks can lead to internships opportunities that help you land a job after graduation.
At the master’s degree level, you have a choice or two paths:
Master of Business Administration with an emphasis in Human Resource Management
- Our MBA is AACSB accredited.
- Offered full-time, part-time, in-person or online.
- Ranked as one of the best MBAs in the country by U.S. News and World Report.
Master of Science in Administration with a concentration in Human Resource Management
- Fully half of your courses will be HR related.
- If you have earned your PHR or SHRM-CP, you may have already completed 6 credits (2 classes) of your MSA program.
- If you have earned your SPHR or SHRM- SCP certification, you may have already completed 9 credits (3 classes) of your MSA program.
Accelerated admissions to the MBA or MSA
If you do both your bachelor’s and master’s degree at CMU, you can earn 18 credits of your master’s program by applying to the accelerated program while still a junior undergraduate student. You’ll have to meet the requirements for admission to the master’s program. But the effort is worth it, as you’ll:
- Save money – You’ll pay undergraduate rates for the 18 credits.
- Save time – The 18 credits apply to both your bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
Learn more about our human resource management programs for those just starting out and seasoned professionals.