Best Online Human Resources Degrees
Our Integrity Network
TheBestSchools.org is committed to delivering content that is objective and actionable. To that end, we have built a network of industry professionals across higher education to review our content and ensure we are providing the most helpful information to our readers.
Drawing on their firsthand industry expertise, our Integrity Network members serve as an additional step in our editing process, helping us confirm our content is accurate and up to date. These contributors:
- Suggest changes to inaccurate or misleading information.
- Provide specific, corrective feedback.
- Identify critical information that writers may have missed.
Integrity Network members typically work full time in their industry profession and review content for TheBestSchools.org as a side project. All Integrity Network members are paid members of the Red Ventures Education Integrity Network.
Online HR Schools
Many schools offer human resources degrees online. These programs prepare learners to pursue a variety of careers in the human resources (HR) field. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects jobs for HR specialists to grow 10% from 2020-2030. These professionals only need a bachelor's degree to enter the field.
This page lists the best online HR degrees. Read on to learn the benefits of online human resources degrees, including costs and common classes. The final section explains how to become a human resources specialist.
Featured Online HR Programs
Questions About Human Resources
Which degree is best for HR?
Most employers look for job candidates with a bachelor's in human resources. A master's degree in this subject may help graduates qualify for more advanced roles.
What are some HR career options?
HR graduates may work as HR managers or specialists. Some degree-holders work as training and recruitment coordinators or benefits specialists.
How long does it take to become an HR manager?
Most professionals take about four years to become a human resources coordinator. This career only requires a bachelor's degree.
Best Online Human Resources Degrees
The school and/or program descriptions below were drafted using natural language generation technology and have been edited for clarity and accuracy. The data is primarily sourced from government databases such as IPEDS – see sources section for more details.
These rankings include
#1 Best Online Human Resources Degrees
Western Governors University
Salt Lake City, UT - 4 years
- Online
Western Governors University leads in hybrid education, offering 30 bachelor's degree programs, all of which are available online. Of these online programs, the bachelor's in human resources suits students seeking flexible, industry-relevant study. Graduates can apply their knowledge and skills to a human resources-specific career or further studies in the field.
Students benefit from a variety of resources, including career services and academic advising. Prospective students should meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid.
Western Governors University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Student-Faculty Ratio: 42-to-1
Undergraduate Tuition In State: $7,550
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $48,100
#2 Best Online Human Resources Degrees
Rutgers University-New Brunswick
New Brunswick, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students seeking a flexible education can choose from in-person or online bachelor's degree programs at Rutgers University-New Brunswick. The online master's in human resources management connects students with industry-relevant knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the HR field. After the program, graduates can pursue a human resources-specific career or a doctorate in the field.
Students benefit from resources, such as career services and academic advising. Dedicated financial aid counselors can help learners understand their available funding options, including scholarships, grants, and student loans.
Rutgers University-New Brunswick at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 67%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $48,200
#3 Best Online Human Resources Degrees
Colorado State University-Global Campus
Aurora, CO - 4 years
- Online
A leader in hybrid education, Colorado State University-Global Campus supports in-person and online study across 15 bachelor's degree programs. The school's bachelor's in human resources management prepares enrollees for the demands of the HR field through rigorous study. The program prepares students for their postgraduate path, whether that be an HR-specific career or graduate studies.
The college provides comprehensive support for new students, including financial aid advising. Prospective learners can connect with financial aid counselors to explore funding opportunities, determine their eligibility, and apply for student loans. Undergraduate students receive an average of $4,518 in financial aid.
Colorado State University-Global Campus at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 98%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 27-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $8,400
#4 Best Online Human Resources Degrees
University of Phoenix-Arizona
Phoenix, AZ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Phoenix-Arizona facilitates in-person and online learning across 39 bachelor's degree programs. The bachelor of science in business with a human resource management certificate is an impressive online degree program, equipping enrollees with industry-relevant knowledge and skills needed to succeed in an HR career. Graduates can pursue careers or postgraduate study relevant to the human resources field.
The institution connects students with success-oriented resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout their program. Students seeking to defray the costs of their degree can meet with a financial aid counselor to discuss funding opportunities and determine their eligibility.
University of Phoenix-Arizona at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, for-profit, four-year
Student-Faculty Ratio: 77-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $9,552
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $34,200
#5 Best Online Human Resources Degrees
Thomas Edison State University
Trenton, NJ - 4 years
- Online
From its main campus in Trenton, New Jersey, Thomas Edison State University provides in-person and remote learning opportunities across 21 bachelor's degree programs. The school's bachelor's in human resources introduces students to foundational HR concepts while also helping them build general skills, such as communication and critical thinking. The human resources program prepares students for careers and further educational pursuits, such as graduate studies.
Career services and academic advising are just two of the numerous institutional resources centering on student success. Prospective students should meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid.
Thomas Edison State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Student-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,182
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $9,342
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $50,900
#6 Best Online Human Resources Degrees
Trine University
Fort Wayne, IN - 4 years
- Online
Located in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Trine University supports both in-person and remote study across 16 bachelor's degree programs. For students seeking to advance in the human resources field, the bachelor of science in business administration in human resource management is a wise choice. The knowledge and skills gained from this program can benefit students in a human resources career or in further educational pursuits.
Students can access a variety of resources throughout their program, including career services and academic advising. Prospective students should meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid.
Trine University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 39%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 7-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $9,576
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $40,000
#7 Best Online Human Resources Degrees
University of Maryland Global Campus
Adelphi, MD - 4 years
- Online
From its main campus in Adelphi, the University of Maryland Global Campus provides in-person and remote learning opportunities across 32 bachelor's degree programs. The bachelor's in human resource management is one of many robust degree programs, equipping students with industry-relevant knowledge. The HR program prepares students for careers and further educational pursuits, such as graduate studies.
Human resources students benefit from institutional support. The financial aid office can assist students in connecting with funding opportunities and determining their eligibility. Financial aid helps enable student success, with 55% of all students receiving aid and 18% of all enrollees graduating.
University of Maryland Global Campus at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,200
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $11,976
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $47,700
#8 Best Online Human Resources Degrees
Dickinson State University
Dickinson, ND - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Dickinson State University, a leader in hybrid education, offers 42 bachelor's programs, 23 of which are available online. The bachelor of science in human resource management is one of many robust degree programs, equipping students with industry-relevant knowledge. HR students can apply their new skills to graduate-level studies in the field.
Throughout their studies, undergraduates can access institutional resources geared toward student success. Learners can meet with a financial aid counselor to discuss funding opportunities, available scholarships, and their eligibility. Incoming enrollees receive an average of $4,911 in financial aid.
Dickinson State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 99%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $6,474
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $8,294
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $42,300
#9 Best Online Human Resources Degrees
Thomas Jefferson University
Philadelphia, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Thomas Jefferson University is a leader in hybrid education, supporting 46 bachelor's degree programs, 10 of which are available online. The school's bachelor's in human resource management introduces students to foundational skills and knowledge in the field. Learners also build general skills, such as communication and critical thinking. After graduating, students can pursue careers or postgraduate study relevant to the HR field.
Students seeking career, academic, and financial guidance can benefit from career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources while enrolled. Depending on their eligibility, students can receive financial aid funding.
Thomas Jefferson University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 70%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $40,680
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $67,600
#10 Best Online Human Resources Degrees
Capella University
Minneapolis, MN - 4 years
- Online
A leader in hybrid education, Capella University supports 21 bachelor's degree programs, all of which are available online. The school's bachelor's in human resource management is an ideal choice for students seeking to advance in an HR career. The human resources program also helps students gain the discipline needed to complete graduate studies.
The institution connects learners with success-oriented resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout their studies. Enrollees have access to financial aid opportunities, such as scholarships, depending on their eligibility.
Capella University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, for-profit, four-year
Undergrad Tuition In State: $365 per credit (GuidedPath); $2,500 per 12-week billing session (FlexPath)
#11 Best Online Human Resources Degrees
Johnson & Wales University
Providence, RI - 4 years
- Online
Johnson & Wales University boasts a robust hybrid learning environment, supporting both in-person and online education modalities across 27 bachelor's degree programs. The bachelor of science in business administration in human resource management is one of many robust degree programs equipping students with industry-relevant knowledge. Graduates of the HR program can pivot to master's studies after earning their bachelor's degree.
Students can access career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources. Eligible students can benefit from financial aid opportunities, such as scholarships, fellowships, and grants.
Johnson & Wales University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 36%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 11-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $13,365
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $33,400
#12 Best Online Human Resources Degrees
Columbia Southern University
Orange Beach, AL - 4 years
- Online
From its main campus in Orange Beach, Alabama, Columbia Southern University provides in-person and remote learning opportunities through 14 bachelor's degree programs. The online bachelor of science in business administration in human resource management connects students with industry-relevant knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the HR field. Graduates can apply their new knowledge to master's-level studies in human resources.
Career services and academic advising are just two of the numerous institutional resources centering on student success. Prospective students may be eligible for funding options, such as scholarships, fellowships, and grants.
Columbia Southern University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, for-profit, four-year
Student-Faculty Ratio: 39-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $5,640
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $57,000
#13 Best Online Human Resources Degrees
Temple University
Philadelphia, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Temple University, a Philadelphia-based, public, four-year college facilitates in-person and online study across 140 bachelor's degree programs. For students seeking to advance in the HR field through flexible study, the bachelor of business administration in human resource management is a wise choice. The program prepares students for their postgraduate path, whether that be a human resources-specific career or graduate studies.
Undergraduate students benefit from institutional support throughout their program. Dedicated financial aid counselors help learners understand their available funding options, including scholarships, grants, and student loans. Incoming enrollees receive an average of $9,986 in financial aid awards.
Temple University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 71%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $16,080
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $28,992
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $42,200
#14 Best Online Human Resources Degrees
Trident University International
Cypress, CA - 4 years
- Campus
Learners seeking flexible study relevant to the human resources field can benefit from Trident University International's bachelor of science in human resource management. After graduating, students can pursue HR careers or postgraduate study relevant to the field.
Students can benefit from institutional resources throughout their program. Prospective students may be eligible for funding options, including scholarships, fellowships, and grants.
Trident University International at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, for-profit, four-year
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $53,400
#15 Best Online Human Resources Degrees
Rasmussen University-Kansas
Topeka, KS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Rasmussen University-Kansas, a private, for-profit school located in Topeka, supports both in-person and online learning across 22 bachelor's degree programs. The online bachelor's in human resources and organizational leadership program connects students with industry-relevant knowledge and skills. The HR program prepares students for professional opportunities and further educational pursuits, such as graduate studies.
The college connects students with institutional resources throughout their program. The financial aid office can assist students in connecting with funding opportunities and determining their eligibility.
Rasmussen University-Kansas at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, for-profit, four-year
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $11,369
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $29,900
#16 Best Online Human Resources Degrees
Baker College
Owosso, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Baker College is a leader in hybrid education, supporting 37 bachelor's degree programs, 19 of which are available online. Students seeking a flexible education relevant to the human resources field can benefit from the school's bachelor of business administration in human resource management. Graduates can apply their knowledge and skills to a human resources-specific career or further studies in HR.
Human resources students can access institutional support throughout the program. Dedicated financial aid counselors can help learners understand available funding options, including scholarships, grants, and student loans.
Baker College at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 54%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 8-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $9,960
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $27,600
#17 Best Online Human Resources Degrees
SUNY Empire State College
Saratoga Springs, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A leader in hybrid education, SUNY Empire State College supports 21 bachelor's degree programs, all of which are available online. For learners seeking to advance in the human resources field through flexible study, the bachelor of science in human resource management is a wise choice. Students can apply their education to a human resources-specific career or a graduate degree.
The institution connects students with success-oriented resources, such as career services and academic advising. Students seeking to defray the costs of their degree can meet with a financial aid counselor to discuss funding opportunities and determine their eligibility. The college reports that enrollees are awarded $7,472 in financial aid on average.
SUNY Empire State College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,070
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $16,980
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $42,200
#18 Best Online Human Resources Degrees
Rasmussen University-Florida
Ocala, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Rasmussen University-Florida, a leader in hybrid education, offers 22 bachelor's programs, 19 of which are available online. For students seeking to advance in the human resources field through flexible study, the bachelor's in human resources and organizational leadership is a wise choice. Human resources degree-holders can pursue an industry-relevant career or go on to study at the graduate level.
Human resources students benefit from institutional support throughout their program. Prospective students can connect with financial aid counselors to explore funding opportunities, determine their eligibility, and apply for student loans.
Rasmussen University-Florida at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, for-profit, four-year
Student-Faculty Ratio: 12-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $11,105
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $29,900
#19 Best Online Human Resources Degrees
Granite State College
Concord, NH - 4 years
- Online
A leader in hybrid education, Granite State College supports in-person and online study across 36 bachelor's degree programs. The school's bachelor of science in human resource management stands out as a competitive option for students looking to succeed in the HR field. The knowledge and skills gained from these studies can benefit graduates in a human resources career or in further educational pursuits.
Career services and academic advising are just two of the numerous institutional resources centering on student success. Eligible learners can benefit from financial aid opportunities, such as scholarships, fellowships, and grants. The college reports that enrollees are awarded $6,056 in financial aid on average.
Granite State College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Student-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,536
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $8,760
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $36,400
#20 Best Online Human Resources Degrees
Bellevue University
Bellevue, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Bellevue University, a private, nonprofit institution, supports in-person and online study across 61 bachelor's degree programs. The school's bachelor of science in management of human resources equips students with industry-relevant skills and knowledge through foundational and advanced coursework and experiential learning opportunities. After graduating, individuals can pursue HR careers or postgraduate study relevant to the human resources field.
Students can access career services, academic advising, and other success-geared resources while enrolled in the program. Eligible students can benefit from financial aid opportunities, such as scholarships, fellowships, and grants.
Bellevue University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Student-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,176
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $52,200
Why Get a Degree in Human Resources?
Earning this degree may lead to HR jobs that pay above-average salaries. HR specialists earn a median $62,290, according to the BLS. This figure surpasses the median annual salary of $45,760 for all occupations. Human resources managers earn $126,230.
Professionals who pursue human resources careers often find meaning in their work. HR professionals get to create functional and healthy work environments. They advocate for employees and create competitive benefits packages. These workers may also engage in conflict resolution practices.
Online human resources degrees provide convenience and flexibility. Many online programs run asynchronously. This format lets degree-seekers complete their studies around work and family.
How Much Does a Human Resources Degree Cost?
Online bachelor's degrees cost an average of $51,090, according to EducationData.org. However, cost varies by school and learners' residency status. Students attending public, in-state schools typically pay the most affordable tuition.
Master's degrees range from $30,000-$120,000. Students pursuing online human resources degrees can enroll in the most affordable program without relocating or commuting. This may help them save money on their degree.
Additional Online Student Fees
Some colleges waive fees for in-person services for online students. However, online enrollees typically pay the same fees as in-person students. Online degree-seekers should budget for extra expenses, like graduation or technology fees.
Learners pursuing human resources degrees online should also plan to buy books. Students can save money by buying used or digital versions. HR degree-seekers may also need to buy special software. Additionally, online students need a reliable computer and internet.
How Much Do Human Resources Majors Make?
Salaries vary for different human resources jobs. Many factors influence pay, including employer, geographic location, and years of experience. HR managers in New York earn a mean annual wage of $84,200. The same professionals in Ohio only earn $63,910.
HR managers with less than one year of experience earn an average of $54,000 annually, according to April 2022 Payscale data. The same professionals with more than 10 years of experience earn $77,000.
Courses in Human Resources Programs
An associate degree in human resources requires about 60 credits and takes full-time learners two years to finish. A bachelor's degree in this subject requires about 120 credits and takes four years to complete.
Earning a human resources degree online provides flexibility. Colleges may offer asynchronous or synchronous online classes. Some colleges provide a combination of both.
Many programs let HR degree-seekers choose a concentration. Some schools may refer to this as a specialization, minor, or track. Common concentrations include business administration and organizational leadership.
See below for three common classes in an online human resources program.
This class identifies common company perks. Learners compare and contrast benefits packages. They learn how to negotiate with insurance companies to provide employees with the best coverage. The class also examines how time off and remote working policies attract young talent.Employee Benefits
Students learn how to mediate conflicts. They complete mock mediations to practice. The class also includes best practices for interpersonal communication. Learners discover how to mediate and settle disputes. They also learn how to prevent miscommunication and conflicts in the workplace.Conflict Resolution
Enrollees learn how to ethically and effectively lead teams. They identify common leadership theories and methods. They also develop a framework for navigating ethical dilemmas. Degree-seekers study unions and laws that protect employee rights. They participate in class discussions and case study evaluations.Leadership in the Human Resources Field
How to Become a Human Resources Specialist
Aspiring HR professionals need an undergraduate degree. Some employers hire human resources specialists who only hold an associate degree. These professionals usually work in assistant or specialist roles. Human resources management jobs typically require at least a bachelor's degree.
Graduates can apply for jobs after earning the required degree. Learners should create a resume that lists professional references and related experience. A cover letter may also help an application stand out.
The HR field does not require certification. However, earning certifications may help candidates stand out in a competitive job market or help them qualify for higher-paying jobs. The Society for Human Resource Management and the HR Certification Institute both offer certifications.
Related Articles
More topic-relevant resources to expand your knowledge.
Popular with our students.
Highly informative resources to keep your education journey on track.
Take the next step toward your future with online learning.
Discover schools with the programs and courses you’re interested in, and start learning today.
