Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources: A Complete Guide

Q: How Long Does It Take to Get a Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources?

Typically, a bachelor's degree in Human Resources takes four years of full-time study to complete. The program is designed to provide a comprehensive education in HR principles and practices, with students taking a mix of general education courses and specialized HR-related classes. Some programs may offer accelerated or part-time options, which can shorten or extend the duration of the degree, depending on the student's individual circumstances and enrollment status.

By Frank AbalosMay 29, 2024Updated May 20, 2026

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See the steps to get a Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, covering what it is, the pros and cons, the process, program duration, online choices, what you'll study, and possible career paths.

Human Resources programs for you

Southern New Hampshire University

BS Human Resources Management

Online

Complete your degree at your own pace
24/7 online accessibility

Financial aid (may be available)

Colorado Technical University

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration - Human Resource Management

Online

Complete your HR management degree online with 5-week class format
Study employment law, staffing, compensation, and workforce development

Financial aid (may be available)

Colorado Technical University

Master of Business Administration - Human Resource Management

Online

Complete your MBA HR management degree online with 5-week class format
Study employment law, staffing, compensation, and workforce development

No cost info

Southern New Hampshire University

MBA with concentration in Human Resources

Online

Can be finished in about 1 year
No GRE/GMAT

No cost info

Key Points

A bachelor's degree in Human Resources (HR) prepares students for a career in managing and developing an organization's most valuable asset - its employees.
The program covers topics such as recruitment, training, compensation, and employee relations, equipping graduates with the skills to thrive in the HR field.
Pursuing a bachelor's degree in HR offers both pros and cons that should be carefully considered.
The path to earning a bachelor's degree in HR involves meeting admission requirements, applying to the program, exploring financial aid options, and successfully completing the curriculum.
The degree typically takes four years to complete and provides a comprehensive understanding of HR principles and practices.
Graduates with a bachelor's degree in HR can pursue various career paths, including entry-level HR roles, graduate school, and a wide range of HR-related positions.

What is a Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources?

A bachelor's degree in Human Resources (HR) is an undergraduate program that focuses on the study and application of principles and practices related to managing an organization's workforce. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including recruitment, training, compensation, employee relations, and organizational development. The program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage and develop an organization's most valuable asset - its people.

Pros and Cons of Pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources

Pros

Prepares students for a career in a growing and in-demand field
Provides a comprehensive understanding of HR principles and practices
Offers opportunities for hands-on learning and internships
Enhances career advancement potential in HR-related roles
Can lead to higher earning potential compared to entry-level positions

Cons

Requires a significant time and financial investment to complete the four-year program
The curriculum may be less specialized compared to a master's degree in HR
Job market competition can be fierce, especially for entry-level positions
The HR field can be subject to changes in business trends and regulations

How to Get a Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources

Step 1: Meet the Admission Requirements

To enroll in a bachelor's degree program in Human Resources, you'll need to meet the admission requirements set by the university or college. This typically includes submitting your high school transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, and a personal statement or essay. Some programs may also require letters of recommendation.

Step 2: Apply to the Human Resources Program

Once you've met the admission requirements, you can begin the application process for the Human Resources program of your choice. This may involve submitting an online application, paying the application fee, and providing any additional required documentation.

Step 3: Explore Financial Aid Options

Financing your education is an important consideration when pursuing a bachelor's degree. Explore various financial aid options, such as scholarships, grants, student loans, and work-study programs. Research the eligibility criteria and application processes for these resources to maximize your chances of securing funding.

Step 4: Enroll and Complete the Program

After being accepted into the Human Resources program, you'll need to enroll in the required courses and successfully complete the curriculum. This typically involves a combination of general education courses, core HR classes, and electives. Be prepared to dedicate significant time and effort to your studies to ensure you graduate with a strong foundation in Human Resources.

List of Online Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources

Dreambound is an online education provider that collaborates with accredited universities to provide top-tier, affordable degree programs. Their online bachelor's degree in Human Resources is structured to be convenient and flexible for students.

Some of the programs and universities offered through Dreambound include:

More programs to explore

Southern New Hampshire University

MS Human Resource Management

Online

24/7 access to online classroom
Prepare for the SHRM-CP or -SCP

No cost info

Arizona State University

Business (Human Resources), BA

Online

Top 10 for best online bachelor's programs.
Learn from notable faculty at the nation's most innovative university.

Financial aid (may be available)

Regent University

Human Resource Management, B.S.

Online

Earn a degree online with flexible class options to fit your schedule
Provides career assistance and preparation for HR and management roles

Financial aid (may be available)

Regent University

Human Rights, LL.M.

Online

Earn a degree online with flexible class options to fit your schedule
Provides career assistance for human rights advocacy roles

No cost info

Columbia Southern University

BSBA Human Resource Management
BS Human Resource Management

Southern New Hampshire University

BS Human Resources Management

How Long Does It Take to Get a Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources?

Typically, a bachelor's degree in Human Resources takes four years of full-time study to complete. The program is designed to provide a comprehensive education in HR principles and practices, with students taking a mix of general education courses and specialized HR-related classes. Some programs may offer accelerated or part-time options, which can shorten or extend the duration of the degree, depending on the student's individual circumstances and enrollment status.

What to Expect from a Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources

A bachelor's degree in Human Resources provides students with a broad understanding of the HR field, covering topics such as recruitment, training, compensation, employee relations, and organizational development. The curriculum often includes a mix of theoretical coursework and practical, hands-on learning experiences, such as internships or simulations. Students can expect to develop a range of skills, including effective communication, problem-solving, data analysis, and strategic thinking, all of which are essential for success in the HR profession.

What Can You Do with a Human Resources Bachelor's Degree?

Graduate School Preparation

Earning a bachelor's degree in Human Resources can be a stepping stone to further education. Graduates may choose to pursue a master's degree in HR, which can provide more specialized knowledge and advanced skills. Additionally, some students may decide to pursue a doctoral degree in Human Resources or a related field, such as organizational behavior or industrial-organizational psychology, to conduct research or teach at the university level.

Entry-Level Human Resources Roles

With a bachelor's degree in Human Resources, graduates can pursue a variety of entry-level HR positions, such as:

HR Assistant
Recruiter
Compensation Specialist
Training and Development Coordinator
Employee Relations Specialist

Career Opportunities

Beyond entry-level roles, a bachelor's degree in Human Resources can lead to a wide range of career opportunities, including:

HR Manager
HR Generalist
Talent Management Specialist
Organizational Development Consultant
Human Resources Business Partner

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for human resources specialists was $67,650 in 2023, and the job outlook for this occupation is projected to grow 6% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations.

Stepping Into Human Resources

Pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources (BS in Human Resources) can be a rewarding and versatile path, equipping graduates with the knowledge and skills to thrive in the dynamic field of human resources. Whether you're interested in entry-level HR roles, graduate school, or a wide range of HR-related career opportunities, a bachelor's degree in HR can provide the foundation you need to succeed.