HR Management Training

What is the Right Option for You?

There are many different training options available to help you jumpstart your career in human resource management. The trick is to select the program that is best for you. There are a variety of certificate and degree programs, ranging in time and cost, that are worthy of consideration. By carefully considering exactly what you are looking for, whether it is an entry into your first HR job, a promotion into a managerial position, or a lateral move from one HR specialty to another, you can make an informed decision.

Broadly speaking, there are two paths you can follow to deepen your knowledge and boost your credentials in human resource management:

• Certificate Programs
• Degree Programs

Certificate Programs

Schools and universities now offer short, intense certificate programs in HR specialties such as compensation and benefits management or employee relations. These certificate courses are ideal for those already pursuing a career in HR, who are want to make a lateral move from one area to another, for example, from recruiting to employee relations.

The certificate will add to your experience and help you market yourself for a different type of position. This is also a time and cost-efficient choice, as you can easily complete the required coursework and exams while continuing your full-time work.

If you are new to HR, a certificate course may also enable you to test the waters and help you decide whether a career in HR is for you. By sampling a few courses, you can assess your interest level. Often, universities will allow you to enroll in their certificate courses and then transfer the credits into their full-time degree programs.

Degree Programs

Many universities offer HR related degrees within their business programs. Look for programs with titles like:

• Associate of Arts in Business Administration
• Bachelor’s in Business Administration, Concentration in Human Resources
• Master’s in Business Administration (MBA), Concentration in HR
• Master’s in Human Resource Management

Most schools and universities have bachelor’s degrees and MBA programs that focus on HR management in their School of Business and some colleges offer a master’s degree specializing in HR management. A Master’s in Human Resources is a worthwhile investment for HR professionals wanting to elevate their career into a Director or Vice President position.

Certificate vs. Degree Program

For entry-level jobs, it is best to pursue a general bachelor’s degree or certificate program that will allow a recent graduate to concentrate in HR. This will allow you some flexibility - you can pursue a career in HR, but still have the option of moving into another area of business if you so choose. Especially early in your career, employers give weight to academic qualifications when considering promotions and if you don’t have a formal degree, you will be at a distinct disadvantage.

Completing a certificate program or a degree course will not guarantee you higher pay or a better job, but in a competitive work environment, it can certainly help. First and foremost, you will be better equipped to perform in your professional role. Second, your earning potential will be enhanced. And finally, you will find that you can move up to new levels in the career ladder with ease and confidence. You will feel qualified as well as be qualified.

In essence, degree programs are critical for those who want to work their way up into managerial positions. Certificate programs may be best for those who want to just explore the possibility of a career in HR and for those who want training in a particular specialty. Certificate programs are like icing on the cake—you need prior experience to pursue one, and once you acquire a certificate, your marketability is bound to increase.

Read an Interview with an HR Professional