The Takeaway for Students
- Experienced human resources professionals are always in demand
- Human resources jobs are growing
- An online bachelor’s degree is a convenient way to earn credentials and get a higher-paying HR position
If you’ve started working in human resources after high school, you might be ready to move up in your career. An online human resources bachelor’s degree can help you do that. You’ll learn how to work with people and stay organized. With this degree, you can start in a basic job and work your way up to a management position.
One great thing about getting a Human Resources Bachelor’s degree online is that you can start working in an entry-level job while you’re still in school. Many businesses offer internships to students so they can train them the way they want. This means you can gain experience while you’re learning, and get hired as soon as you’re done with your program.
Why You Can Trust College Consensus
College Consensus has been committed to producing unbiased and comprehensive college rankings that combine expert opinions and student reviews since 2017. Our transparent methodology aggregates data from trusted rankings experts, verified student reviews, and the National Center for Education Statistics. This combination ensures that our rankings are uniquely balanced, reflecting professional assessments, real experiences of students, and the objec. Our editorial team and subject matter experts rigorously review all content to ensure that users receive accurate, up-to-date information. Advertisers have no influence over our rankings or editorial decisions.
- Over 3,000 accredited colleges and universities evaluated for our rankings.
- Data from multiple well-regarded ranking sources and student review platforms.
- All rankings are updated regularly and undergo strict verification.
- A transparent methodology that balances expert opinions and student feedback.
- Only a select few top-rated institutions based on a combination of criteria make the cut.
Methodology: How We Rank the Best Online Human Resources Bachelor’s Programs
For our rankings of online programs, we consider core questions:
- Is the program accredited?
- Is the program available online?
- Is the program fully online?
- Is the program flexible?
From those basic requirements, we consider two other factors:
- Affordability (according to NCES data)
- Reputation (according to Consensus Score)
- Unigo
- My Plan
- Niche
- Grad Reports
- U.S. News Reviews
- Unigo
- U.S. News
- My Plan
- Washington Monthly
- Niche
- Forbes
- Grad Reports
- Wall Street Journal
- U.S. News Reviews
- Wallet Hub
Summary: Top 10 Online Bachelor’s in Human Resources
| Rank | School | Cost | Student Consensus Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Florida International University | $19,883 | 81.2 |
| 2. | Colorado State University Global | $19,048 | 76.9 |
| 3. | Wilmington University | $27,126 | 80.0 |
| 4. | University of Maryland Global Campus | $10,160 | 73.2 |
| 5. | Thomas Jefferson University | $17,180 | 70.8 |
| 6. | University of Alabama at Birmingham | $29,580 | 75.9 |
| 7. | Portland State University | $16,794 | 69.7 |
| 8. | Indiana State University | $19,467 | 72.4 |
| 9. | Davenport University | $7,650 | 71.4 |
| 10. | DeSales University | $10,138 | 77.0 |
Florida International University’s online BBA in Human Resource Management is highly regarded as one of the top programs in the field. The curriculum equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in HR careers. That includes attracting and selecting qualified, diverse candidates. Some students particularly value this program for its focus on collective bargaining, training and development, and HR management IT. FIU’s curriculum meets Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) standards, and every student gets their own success coach.
What the Experts Say
College Consensus gives FIU a score of 73.3.
What the Students Say
A Student Consensus score of 81.2 shows graduates are overwhelmingly satisfied with their FIU experience.
What the Data Says
- Degree: Human Resource Management, BBA
- Credits: 120 credits
- Time to Complete: 4 years
- Average Tuition: $6,168 In-state; $18,566 Out-of-state
- Acceptance Rate: 59%
CSU Global’s online Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a specialization in Human Resources Management is one of the top programs available. This degree can help you get a great job in human resources. You’ll learn how to be a good leader and how to help organizations grow. CSU Global is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) and aligned with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). Faculty are guaranteed to respond to question in 24 hours, and students get free live tutoring.
What the Experts Say
CSU Global does not have a Consensus Score, but Colorado State scores a 54.5.
What the Students Say
Students give CSU Global a Student Consensus of 76.9.
What the Data Says
- Degree: Human Resources Management, BS
- Credits: 120 credits
- Time to Complete: 4 years
- Average Tuition: $8,400
- Acceptance Rate: 17%
The Wilmington University online BS in Human Resource Management teaches people the keys to human resources. You’ll learn about things like how to be fair in business, how to manage people, how to help organizations grow, how to find the best people for jobs, how to pay employees fairly, and how to work in a real human resources job. Wilmington U’s unique micro-course format also offers students a convenient way to stack single credits to build up customized specializitions.
What the Experts Say
Wilmington University has not earned a Consensus Score.
What the Students Say
Students show high satisfaction with Wilmington U, giving a score of 80.
What the Data Says
- Degree: Human Resource Management, BS
- Credits: 120 credits
- Time to Complete: 4 years
- Average Tuition: $12,570
- Acceptance Rate: 99%
The University of Maryland Global Campus offers one of the most innovative and up-to-date Human Resource Management BS programs in the nation. Students learn through a unique combination of human resources technology simulators, virtual reality tools, and real-world case studies. UMGC partners with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) to provide the most relevant instruction. And students are prepared for:
- Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification exam
- Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification exam
- SHRM-Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) certification exam
What the Experts Say
College Consensus has not given UMGC a score.
What the Students Say
Students give UMGC a Student Consensus score of 73.2.
What the Data Says
- Degree: Human Resource Management, BS
- Credits: 120 credits
- Time to Complete: 4 years
- Average Tuition: $7,776 In-state; $11,976 Out-of-state
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
Thomas Jefferson University’s Bachelor of Science in Human Resources Management believes that people are the most important part of any organization. This program follows the guidelines of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and prepares students for jobs in human resources in any industry. One great thing about getting this degree online is that you have a lot of flexibility. Jefferson accepts transfer credits generously from earlier learning.
What the Experts Say
Jefferson has a Consensus Score of 62.
What the Students Say
A Student Score of 70.8 shows overall satisfaction with Jefferson U.
What the Data Says
- Degree: Human Resource Management, BS
- Credits: 120 credits
- Time to Complete: 4 years
- Average Tuition: $46,175
- Acceptance Rate: 86%
The University of Alabama at Birmingham’s online Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources Management is very popular with students who want to build their career in human resources. This program follows the guidelines of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) to prepare students for jobs at companies and other organizations. Students in this program learn about employment law, different topics in human resources, and how to get a SHRM certification. Experiential learning is at the heart of UAB’s human resources program. That includes year-round access to internships.
What the Experts Say
UAB has a Consensus Score of 49.8.
What the Students Say
Students score UAB higher, with a 75.9 Student score.
What the Data Says
- Degree: Human Resource Management, BS
- Credits: 120 credits
- Time to Complete: 4 years
- Average Tuition: $11,040 In-state; $27,330 Out-of-state
- Acceptance Rate: 87%
Portland State University’s School of Business has an online Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources Management. Students who finish this program can find good jobs in many areas of human resources, such as labor relations, employee pay, managing people, performance management, company culture, and leadership development. PSU’s human resources degree is accredited by the AACSB.
What the Experts Say
PSU does not have a Consensus Score.
What the Students Say
Students give PSU a Student Consensus score of 69.7.
What the Data Says
- Degree: Human Resource Management, BBA
- Credits: 180 credits
- Time to Complete: 4 years
- Average Tuition: $9,765 In-state; $29,070 Out-of-state
- Acceptance Rate: 93%
Indiana State University (ISU) offers an online Bachelor of Science degree specifically designed for human resources professionals in higher education and other industries. It’s also accredited by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), ensuring you’ll receive a top-notch education. ISU’s curriculum is based on standards set by the Association for Talent Development (ATD) and the SHRM. Through this program, you’ll take courses on building strong organizations, human behavior, managing legal risks, and understanding employee psychology.
What the Experts Say
College Consensus has not given ISU a Consensus score.
What the Students Say
ISU earns a 72.4 Student Consensus score.
What the Data Says
- Degree: Human Resource Development for Higher Education and Industry, BS
- Credits: 51 credits
- Time to Complete: 4 years
- Average Tuition: $9,978 In-state; $22,042 Out-of-state
- Acceptance Rate: 92%
Davenport University’s Bachelor of Human Resource Management degree offers a comprehensive education in human resources. The program aligns with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and prepares students for various HR careers. Students gain practical skills through real-world scenarios and can take the SHRM-CP exam early, without the usual 2 years of experience.. The program is taught by experienced HR professionals and can be completed entirely online.
What the Experts Say
College Consensus has no score for Davenport University.
What the Students Say
Davenport has a 71.4 Student Consensus score.
What the Data Says
- Degree: Human Resource Management, BBA
- Credits: 120 credits
- Time to Complete: 4 years
- Average Tuition: $23,376
- Acceptance Rate: 82%
The business school at DeSales University offers a fully online Bachelor of Arts in Human Resources Management. This accelerated program builds expertise in key HR skills like:
- Hiring
- staff development
- career management
- performance evaluation
- reward systems
The focus on conflict management, ethics, and social responsibility also helps HR professionals work in diverse environments.
What the Experts Say
DeSales does not have a Consensus Score.
What the Students Say
Students are largely satisfied with DeSales, earning them a 77 Student Consensus score.
What the Data Says
- Degree: Human Resource Management, BA
- Credits: 120 credits
- Time to Complete: 4 years
- Average Tuition: $45,000
- Acceptance Rate: 79%
Why Is Human Resources Important?
Human Resources (HR) is a very important department. The HR team manages the company’s employees. They keep files on each employee with information about their skills and experience. This helps them offer employees new opportunities and rewards for their hard work. If an employee has problems at work, the HR team helps solve them.
Just look at the salary and job growth expectations from the Bureau of Labor Statistics!
| Title | Average Salary | Job Growth |
|---|---|---|
| Human Resources Managers | $136,350 | 6% |
| Human Resources Specialists | $67,650 | 8% |
HR does more than just hiring and firing people. They keep detailed records of each employee’s time at the company, including any warnings, awards, and evaluations. They also help to evaluate employees’ work and recommend them for promotions. Certifications for HR can be done online, so you can work full-time while you learn.
HR team members are also in charge of benefits like retirement plans and insurance. They work to find the best benefits for each employee. They also help employees file insurance claims. Sometimes, HR employees need special training to work with insurance and financial programs.
Should I Get an Accelerated Human Resources Degree?
A lot of people start working in human resources right out of high school. If you’re already working in the field, an accelerated degree can be a good choice.
These programs help you finish your studies more quickly, so you can get a better job with higher pay. They use techniques like:
- Transfer credits
- 6- or 8-week sessions
- Multiple start dates
If you’ve already taken some college courses, many programs let you transfer credits to finish faster. Other programs use short 8-week sessions instead of the traditional 16-week sessions. Or they may have multiple start dates during the year so you’re not stuck only being able to start in the spring or fall.
Taking an accelerated human resources program online lets you work full-time while you learn. This can help you get more experience and understand your lessons better. You might even ask more questions at work and take on more responsibilities. An accelerated program can be a great way to boost your career.
How Do I Choose an Online Human Resources Degree?
To choose the right online Human Resources degree program, you need to know your goals. Think about where you want to be in five years. Online courses can help you move forward in your career. You can even change careers completely. It’s easier to take steps toward your goals when you can work and go to school at the same time.
Once you know your goals, choose an accredited online Human Resources program. Look at the courses offered and choose ones that fit your career plan. For example, if you want to work in manufacturing, take classes that are helpful for that industry.
A good HR bachelor’s program should meet the standards of key organizations:
The college or university should have regional accreditation (recognized by the US Department of Education). But it’s even better if the business school has accreditation itself from one of these:
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
- Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
- International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE)
It’s also important to research the school you want to attend.
- Is it accredited?
- Can you transfer courses from other programs?
- Do they offer mentorship or internship programs?
Talk to counselors and students, and visit the campus if you can. This will help you learn more about the school, even if you plan to take all your classes online.
What Can I Do With a Bachelor’s in Human Resources?
Human Resources jobs can be found in many different industries. People who work in Human Resources help companies manage their employees. They make sure employees are happy and their needs are met. They also help solve problems at work.
| Job Title | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Compensation Specialist | $90,159 |
| Benefits Manager | $81,432 |
| Human Resources Manager | $81,236 |
| Employee Relations Manager | $80,360 |
| Training Manager | $76,341 |
| HRIS Specialist | $73,200 |
| Benefits Administrator | $59,791 |
| Training Coordinator | $52,570 |
| Human Resources Assistant | $45,181 |
| Payroll Specialist | $40,556 |
People with a Human Resources degree can also work as Benefits Coordinators. They help manage insurance plans and other benefits for employees. They often take extra training in finance or insurance to understand these benefits better.
Recruiters are another important part of Human Resources. They find and hire the best people for jobs. They usually post job openings and choose from applicants. Sometimes, they have to go out and find people to hire. They might contact colleges and universities to find recent graduates with the right skills for a job.
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