20 Best Affordable Online Human Resources Management Degree Programs (Bachelor’s) 2020

Students considering a career in human resources may wish to research the many online Bachelor's in Human Resources Management degrees available. Human resources professionals are a vital part of any successful business. Job opportunities are plentiful in this field. HR managers analyze the skills and talents of their company's employees before determining the position where their employees can best succeed. They strive to optimize their company's performance and productivity. If identifying, training, and overseeing employees sounds like the career path for you, check out the following list of some of the most affordable online bachelor's degrees in human resources.

Methodology

It can be overwhelming trying to find the best bachelor's degree in human resources that prepares for you for entry-level positions or graduate studies in this field. Using the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) College Navigator Tool, we conducted a search for the phrase "online Bachelor's in Human Resources Management degree" and narrowed down the search results from more than 100 schools to the top 20 based on factors such as:

• in-state tuition rates

• student/faculty ratios

• graduation rates

• national rankings as reported by U.S. News & World Report.

We also double-checked the information we obtained on each school's website.

Average Cost of Attendance

The cost of tuition might be at the forefront of your mind when determining which online Bachelor's in Human Resources Management to pursue. However, try to consider tuition rates in relation to the program and not select one based solely on cost. For example, some of the most affordable programs in the country might have everything to offer, while the most expensive programs might not meet your academic needs. We ranked tuition based on the reported cost of one year of the program in which students complete 15 hours of coursework each semester. We also provided out-of-state tuition rates for your reference.

Student-to-Faculty Ratio

Student/faculty ratios are a solid way to determine the class sizes as well as the size of the school. Larger schools are known to offer more areas of concentration and specializations. Smaller schools usually offer more opportunities for individualized studies and one-on-one mentoring with faculty members. The ideal learning environment is different for every student and there are certainly benefits and drawbacks to each. We awarded the maximum number of points to universities and colleges with small class sizes of 10 or fewer undergraduate students.

College Ranking

Finally, consider how each program compares to similar degrees across the country in terms of student learning outcomes, the experience of faculty, and the quality of the degree itself. To do this, we consulted U.S. News & World Report, a recognized leader known for its college rankings of schools nationwide. Using the organization's Best Online Bachelor's Programs category as a resource for determining the quality and offerings of each program, we awarded points based on the following ranges.

Graduation Rate

To measure the quality of an institution's student learning outcomes, faculty, and academic programs as well as student satisfaction, we looked at each school's graduation rates. This number gives a solid indication of whether students were satisfied with faculty members, received the academic support they needed, and found the tuition rates affordable. High graduation rates generally signify satisfaction, while low graduation rates typically signify dissatisfaction. We awarded points accordingly.

Ranking Top 20 Undergraduate Degree Programs in Human Resources Management

20. Ohio Christian University

Circleville, Ohio

The online BA in Human Resources from Ohio Christian University offers classes in five-week sessions.

Points: 5Program Website

The Bachelor of Arts degree with a concentration in human resources at Ohio Christian University prepares students to offer suggestions for improvement in the organizations where they work. It prepares them to help implement and develop effective human resources policies and programs. They will be able to describe the needs of businesses as they pertain to the field of human resources. Fully online courses are offered in five-week sessions. They're organized into five separate components:

• an introduction to human resources

• benefits and compensation

• labor and employee relations

• development

• training.

The online format allows non-traditional students to continue to work while earning their degree.

19. Wilmington University

New Castle, Delaware

The online BS in Human Resource Management from Wilmington University offers cooperative learning experiences.

Points: 5Program Website

Wilmington University offers a Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management that aligns with the Society for Human Resource Management's HR Curriculum Guidebook. Students develop knowledge in key business areas such as:

• strategic management

• marketing

• accounting

• statistics

The program also trains students in the areas of:

• HR Planning

• labor and employee relations

• benefits and compensation

• development, staffing, and the training of staff members

The school provides cooperative learning experiences that allow students to gain real-world practice. Graduates may choose to complete master's-level courses while earning their bachelor's in order to get started on their graduate degree.

18. Metropolitan State University

Saint Paul, Minnesota

The online BS in Human Resource Management from Metropolitan State University incorporates strategic management perspectives into HR policies and programs.

Points: 5Program Website

Metropolitan State University provides an online Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management. The program prepares students to seek positions in:

• business

• government

• nonprofit organizations

Students take 120 credit hours of coursework in HRM areas such as:

• staffing

• labor relations

• benefits and compensation

• employee relations

• employee training and development

The curriculum also incorporates strategic management perspectives into HR policies and programs. Students are required to complete core areas of study in:

• organizational behavior

• finance

• marketing

• management information systems

A culminating capstone course is required for graduation. Students use case studies to create systems and techniques for analyzing the weaknesses and strengths of organizations.

17. Colorado Christian University

Lakewood, Colorado

The online BS in Human Resource Management at Colorado Christian University aligns with the Society of Human Resource Management.

Points: 6Program Website

Colorado Christian University offers the Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management. It combines human resource management with biblical and ethical principles of leadership. The program prepares students to pursue careers in:

• human resources

• business

• management

The 120-credit-hour program can be completed in four semesters. It's comprised of:

• 30 hours in the major

• 42 hours of electives

• six hours in foundation courses,

• 42 hours of general education requirements

The curriculum aligns with the Society of Human Resource Management. It focuses on key areas within the field such as:

• development and training

• benefits and compensation

• workforce planning

• performance management

• employment and labor law.

16. Ferris State University

Big Rapids, Michigan

The online BS in Human Resource Management from Ferris State University requires 120 credit hours of coursework.

Points: 6Program Website

Ferris State University offers the ACBSP-accredited Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management. It provides opportunities for students to investigate critical areas of HR such as:

• employment law

• employment benefits

• compensation

• selection and recruitment

• database implementation and design

• negotiations

Offered through the College of Business, the program requires 120 credit hours of study. The program helps students develop their knowledge of business through classes in:

• accounting

• marketing

• computer information systems

• management

• finance

• international business.

Students are required to complete an internship to gain real-world practical experience before graduating.

15. Park University

Parkville, Missouri

The online BS in Business Administration/Human Resources from Park University requires 63 credit hours of study.

Points: 6Program Website

Park University offers the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration/Human Resources. The program requires 63 hours of general study, 24 hours in human resources classes and 39 hours of business classes. It provides students with the skills and knowledge to effectively manage interpersonal and intergroup relationships. Students can expect to develop their understanding of:

• staffing and planning

• compensation management

• human resource development

• employment law

The program draws from various fields such as:

• management

• organizational behavior,

• social psychology.

Graduates are prepared to become:

• human resources managers

• labor relations managers

• employee relations managers

• development and training managers

• compensation or benefit analysts.

14. Columbia College

Columbia, Missouri

The online BS in Human Resource Management from Columbia College requires 120 credit hours of coursework.

Points: 6Program Website

Columbia College offers the 120-semester-hour Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management. It requires students to complete general education requirements, 18 hours in human resources courses, and at least 60 hours in business classes. Coursework involves 12 hours of key areas in the field of human resources, including:

• the study of human resource management

• benefits and compensation systems

• organizational behavior

• workforce development and planning

Electives include such areas as:

• cross-cultural management

• industrial-organizational psychology

• labor relations.

A culminating evaluation that students complete during the program's final 30 hours is also required before graduating.

13. Dickinson State University

Dickinson, North Dakota

The online BBA from Dickinson State University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1.

Points: 6Program Website

Dickinson State University offers an online Bachelor of Business Administration with a major in human resource management. The curriculum is divided into:

• human resource management courses

• pre-major courses

• business core classes

• general education requirements

Students investigate various components of the field, including:

• business law, labor relations

• human resource management

• human resource development

• diversity

• compensation management

• workforce development and staffing

Graduates have the skills and knowledge needed to provide solutions to help. businesses grow. Program graduates can also identify ethical and legal challenges facing human resources departments. They can also analyze and perform different administrative functions within human resources management area.

12. Indiana State University

Terre Haute, Indiana

The online BS in Human Resource Development form Indiana State University requires a professional internship.

Points: 6Program Website

Indiana State University offers a 42-credit online Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Development. It allows students to take nine credits in electives to develop an area of expertise. The curriculum is aligned with both the American Society of Training and Development and the Society of Human Resource Management HR Curriculum Guidebook. The curriculum offers courses in:

• continuous performance improvement

• evaluating learning performance

• employee appraisals and career development

• work-life integration

• human resources development,

• industrial-organizational psychology.

A professional internship in human resources and a written report about the experience are required for graduation.

11. Limestone College

Gaffney, South Carolina

The online Bachelor'e in Human Resource Management from Limestone College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1.

Points: 7Program Website

Limestone College offers the bachelor's degree in human resource management. It provides students with the skills and knowledge they need to manage employee development in businesses and organizations. The curriculum exposes students to topics in organizational policy and personnel as well as:

• labor relations

• human resources regulations and laws

• labor relations

• gender roles,

• civil rights

Students also focus on:

• motivation and compensation systems

• implementation and development of job training programs

• career management

• selection and recruitment

• employee assessment and testing

Graduates may pursue roles in:

• human resources management

• industrial relations

• labor relations

• job analysis.

10. Indiana Wesleyan University

Marion, Indiana

The online BS in Management in Human Resource Management from Indiana Wesleyan University curriculum aligns with the Society for Human Resource Management.

Points: 7Program Website

Indiana Wesleyan University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Management that emphasizes the study of business management through a biblical worldview. Students take one course at a time. IWU offers a specialization in human resource management for students seeking careers in this particular field. Areas of study in the major include:

• negotiation and conflict resolution

• economics

• HR management

• accounting

HR-focused topics in the specialization include:

• compensation

• HR development

• pay systems

• benefits,

• rewards

The curriculum aligns with the Society for Human Resource Management's HR Curriculum Guidebook. It prepares students for certification, graduate studies, or a number of positions in the human resources field.

9. Concordia University-Saint Paul

Saint Paul, Minnesota

The online BA in Human Resource Management from Concordia University-Saint Paul offers classes every seven weeks.

Points: 7Program Website

Concordia University-Saint Paul offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Human Resource Management. It prepares graduates for roles as organizational leaders and human resource practitioners. These leaders are responsible for helping their employees and organizations achieve results. Students can complete the 40-credit-hour curriculum on their own schedule and at their own pace, taking courses every seven weeks. The program is aligned with the Society for Human Resource Management. It provides training in vital areas within the field of human resources such as:

• onboarding, selection, and recruitment

• organizational change and development

• employment law

• compensation

• ethics

• marketing

• finance

• accounting.

8. Hampton University

Hampton, Virginia

The online BS in Systems Organization and Management from Hampton University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1.

Points: 7Program Website

Hampton University offers a Bachelor of Science in Systems Organization and Management. It prepares graduates to seek certification as well as pursue entry- and mid-level management positions in the public and private sectors. Students receive an introduction to the theories, foundations, and principles that make up the management of large organizations. Challenging coursework is offered in areas such as:

• the liberal arts

• marketing

• economics

• finance

• complex organizational issues

• The human resources concentration provides additional classes to help students develop an understanding of the leadership skills and knowledge required to succeed in the field of human resources.

7. Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College

West Terre Haute, Indiana

The online BS in Human Resource Management from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College requires 125 credit hours of coursework.

Points: 8Program Website

Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College offers the Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management. It is aligned with the HR Curriculum Guidebook developed by the Society for Human Resource Management. The program is comprised of 125 credit hours of study, including 48 hours in HR- and business-focused courses. Areas of study include:

• research in business

• legal issues

• cultural and racial minorities

• organizational behavior

• business accounting

• marketing

• management

• communications

• finance

Graduates are prepared for careers as:

• labor relations managers

• compensation managers,

• directors of human resources

They are also prepared to sit for the SHRM Certified Professional certification examination.

6. Anderson University

Anderson, South Carolina

The online BS in Business in Human Resource Management from Anderson University requires 128 credit hours of coursework.

Points: 8Program Website

Anderson University offers the Bachelor of Science in Business. It consists of core courses in foundational business applications and is enhanced by a human resource management concentration. The program is comprised of 128 credit hours of study, including:

• 20 hours of electives

• 41 hours of general education courses

• 21 hours of concentration courses

• 40 hours of business classes

• six hours of cognate courses

Areas of study in the HR concentration include:

• international business

• industrial-organizational psychology

• human resources management,

• compensation

An exit examination is required before students can graduate from the program.

5. Geneva College

Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania

The online BPS in Human Resources from Geneva College has a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio.

Points: 8Program Website

Geneva College offers the Bachelor of Professional Studies in Human Resources. It prepares students to pursue positions as human resources leaders or managers in businesses and organizations. Courses are offered online. This allows students the flexibility to earn their degree within 16 months if they transfer in previously earned college credits. The curriculum is focused on fundamental areas of human resources as well as:

• group dynamics

• organizational behavior

• styles of communication

• decision-making and ethics

• complications of supervision

Students also develop their knowledge and skills in the areas of:

• hiring employees

• conflict resolution and negotiation

• benefits and compensation

• safety

• training.

4. Colorado State University Global

Greenwood Village, Colorado

The online BS in Human Resource Management from CSU Global is comprised of 10 three-credit courses.

Points: 8Program Website

Colorado State University Global offers a 120-credit Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management degree. It prepares students with the knowledge and skills to:

• build a collaborative and inclusive company culture

• maximize employee performance

• manage the implementation and creation of policies

• handle onboarding, negotiation, and staffing.

The curriculum is comprised of three-credit courses in the major that delve into specific areas of study such as:

• the management of team dynamics

• training

• professional development

• employee law

• conflict resolution,

• business policy

A human resource management practicum experience is available for students from certain states who are looking to further train through hands-on, real-world learning.

3. University of Arkansas

Fayetteville, Arkansas

The online Bachelor's in Human Resources from University of Arkansas requires 120 credit hours of coursework.

Points: 9Program Website

The University of Arkansas offers the online bachelor's degree in human resource and workforce development education. It's a 120-credit-hour program that can be completed within two to four years. Courses are offered on a traditional 15-week schedule. Students may choose to complete classes during two five-week summer sessions. Through the curriculum, students learn:

• to apply counseling and career planning skills

• organizational development

• integrated training to evaluate, manage, and design programs

Areas of study include:

• law and ethics

• organization development

• communication, program and product evaluation

• training and development

• career development

A capstone course is required for graduation.

2. Florida International University

Miami, Florida

The online BBA in Human Resource Management from Florida International University requires 120 credit hours of coursework.

Points: 10Program Website

Florida International University offers an online Bachelor of Business Administration in Human Resource Management. It's comprised of 120 hours of study, including 60 credits in electives, human resources classes, and business core courses. There are also 60 credits in business pre-core courses. The program prepares students with the skills and knowledge they need to find, choose, and train employees. It also prepare graduates to select the jobs for which their candidates are best suited. Areas of study include:

• development and training benefits and compensation

• collective bargaining

• information systems in human resource management

• employment law.

1. Charleston Southern University

Charleston, South Carolina

The online BS in Human Resources from Charleston Southern University requires 125 credit hours of coursework.

Points: 11Program Website

Charleston Southern University offers a Bachelor of Science in Human Resources program. It prepares graduates to:

• recruit within their organizations

• hire new employees

• problem-solve complex situations

• manage difficult issues facing their organization

The curriculum focuses on different areas within the field of human resources, including:

• organizational culture

• staffing

• labor relations

• employment law

• development and training

• compensation

Students are also exposed to business-related classes that delve into:

• business accounting

• law

• policy

• communication,

• ethics

A total of 125 hours of study, including core courses, electives, and general education classes are required.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Career Options for a Bachelor's in Human Resources Management Degree?

Earning a Bachelor's in Human Resources Management prepares students to follow a number of career paths. These programs cover a broad range of skills and knowledge, including everything from business management to psychology to accounting and finance. Human resources bachelor's degree programs are well-suited for students looking to develop:

• business acumen

• decision-making

• interpersonal and communication skills.

Some of the most popular career options for graduates with a Bachelor's in Human Resources Management include:

• Human Resources Manager

• Development and Training Manager

• Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialist

• Human Resources Specialist

How Much Can You Earn in This Field?

The amount you will earn in the field of human resources will depend on a number of factors, including:

• the company in which you are working

• the area in which you work

• your chosen specialization area

• your level of education

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), some of the most common occupations pursued with a bachelor's degree and their related salaries are listed below. The data, unless otherwise indicated, is current as of May 2018.

Human resources managers reported a median annual wage of $113,300, with the lowest 10 percent earning less than $66,870 and the highest 10 percent earning more than $201,380. According to the BLS, the industries that paid their employees in this occupation the highest salaries are:

• Social assistance and health care: $97,620

• Government: $101,170

• Manufacturing: $111,030

• Management of enterprises and companies: $126,420

• Technical, scientific, and professional services: $127,690

Human resources specialists reported a median annual wage of $60,880, with the lowest 10 percent earning less than $36,270 and the highest 10 percent earning more than $104,390. Top-paying industries for this occupation are the same as the industries listed above.

The BLS also indicates that training and development managers reported a median annual wage of $111,340, with the lowest 10 percent earning less than $63,600 and the highest 10 percent earning more than $111,340. Compensation and benefits managers reported a median annual wage of $121,010 per year, with the lowest 10 percent earning less than $70,560 and the highest 10 percent earning more than $205,470.

What is a Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources Management?

Students who are looking to pursue management-level human resources careers may consider earning an online bachelor's degree in human resources management. Although all undergraduate human resources degrees provide students with the knowledge they need to switch careers or enter the field for the first time, online or distance learning offers flexibility for students already working in HR or other fields. Although every program is different, most programs offer coursework in areas such as:

• Human resource management

• Workforce development and planning

• Organizational behavior

• Principles of management

• Business ethics and laws

• Labor laws

• Benefits and compensation systems

• Conflict resolution and negotiation

Some online undergraduate degrees include a practical training, internship, field-based work, or capstone project. These opportunities may be optional or required depending on the school and program itself. Students may consider participating in order to benefit from hands-on, real-world training and the opportunity to network with professionals established in human resources.

Some schools also allow students to pursue a specific interest area through the completion of an optional or required specialization or concentration. Although not every concentration will be offered by every school, some of the most common include:

• entrepreneurship and innovation

• organizational effectiveness

• strategic management.

Also, while some institutions will offer Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degrees in human resources management, others will provide a Bachelor of Business Administration with an emphasis on human resources. These programs are ideal for students looking to further develop their business acumen in addition to learning about the fundamental principles, practices, and methods of human resources.

How Long Will You Spend Earning My Online Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources Management?

Although every school and program is different, most online bachelor's degrees in human resources management consists of 120 credit hours of study completed through:

• major core requirements

• general education classes

• electives

If you have already earned an associate degree or taken college-level courses while in high school, you may be eligible to transfer these credits into your bachelor's program. This reduces the time spent pursuing an undergraduate education. Most bachelor's programs, however, can be completed within four years of full-time enrollment.

Also, the way in which the program is organized and the delivery format of the classes will affect the time it takes to earn your degree. For example, some universities and colleges offer asynchronous, self-paced classes in which students complete assignments whenever it is most convenient for them. Conversely, other institutions offer synchronous courses through a cohort in which students learn at the same time and move through the program together. Those who pursue an individually paced program may be able to earn their degree faster if they are able to complete assignments and meet deadlines ahead of their peers. Accelerated programs may also be available in which working, non-traditional students can use their experience and prior education toward the degree requirements.

So, how do you determine which undergraduate program in human resources management is right for you? When comparing Bachelor's in Human Resources Management degrees, look for programs that teach students the best ways to apply human resources theory to solve issues and problems faced by organizations. Depending on your career aspirations and whether you are pursuing part- or full-time enrollment and seeking a hybrid or only online degree, there are a number of affordable online bachelor's degrees in human resources management designed to meet your needs.

• 20 Tuition-Free Colleges

• 30 Most Attractive Yet Affordable College Campuses

• The 50 Most Affordable Colleges with the Best Return

• 25 of the Oldest American Colleges and Universities

• 25 Most Affordable Online Master's of Human Resources Management Degrees

• 20 Affordable Online Bachelor's Degrees in Human Resources Management

• 16 Online Doctorate in Business Administration Degree Programs

• 25 Most Affordable Online Master's of Business Administration Degrees

• These 30 Colleges are Reversing the Rise in Tuition

• 50 Most Entrepreneurial Schools in America