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Associate's Degree in Human Resources

An associate’s degree in human resources prepares graduates to begin or advance their careers in human resource management or to eventually complete their HR bachelor’s degree.

Programs typically provide students with working knowledge of human resources policies and procedures and relevant computer applications, along with the skills needed to manage people in a workplace environment.

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In general, course work for an HR associate’s degree covers personnel recruitment and evaluation, employee relations, staff training and development, employment law, business ethics and compensation and benefits. Students should also expect to take some general education courses, such as math and writing.

Graduates with an associate’s degree in human resources management qualify for entry-level positions, such as basic human resources generalists. HR associate’s degree holders often also enter into specialized HR roles in private, public and nonprofit organizations; human resource clerks, HR assistants and assistant recruiters are some of the most popular jobs. Others work as training and development coordinators, payroll assistants and compensation or benefits specialists.