Most Affordable Online Human Resources Degrees of 2026
Human resources (HR) degree programs provide training for a fast-growing career with high earning potential. HR departments are positioned for strong long-term growth thanks to the strategic value they provide to growth-oriented businesses.
This guide profiles some of the most affordable online human resources degrees available from accredited and reputable institutions. Use it to identify schools and programs where you can save money on a career-focused education.
Human Resources Degree at a Glance
- Typical Program Length: Four years
- Typical Admission Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, satisfactory academic performance that meets general first-year admission requirements
- Top Skills Gained: Employer-employee relations, recruitment and retention, employment law, employee performance evaluation, regulatory compliance, conflict management and resolution, change management
- Popular Concentrations: HR often functions as a concentration track within business administration, business management, or management and leadership programs
10 Most Affordable Online Human Resources Degrees
Florida International University
- Miami, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The online bachelor of business administration in human resource management at Florida International University offers a flexible, accessible route to a college degree. The program appeals to learners with busy schedules.
Online students benefit from a variety of options. The Miami-based public school offers 67 online programs. Degree-seekers can also pursue any of the institution's 36 online bachelor's programs.
The bachelor's program in human resources requires general education courses and major classes. Degree-seekers complete at least 120 undergraduate credits to graduate. The rigorous curriculum helps enrollees develop transferable skills and specialized human resources knowledge.
Student support services, including tutoring and career counseling, help learners succeed academically and professionally. Online undergraduates and alumni can work with faculty advisors and career counselors. Learners can consult with financial aid counselors to explore funding options, such as scholarships and grants.
68%
$ 4,721
89%
$16,529
- Acceptance Rate
- 58%
- Students Enrolled
- 58,711
- Institution Type
- Public
Western Governors University
- Salt Lake City, UT
- 4 year
- Online
- Accredited
Online learners can enroll in the convenient online bachelor's in human resource management program at Western Governors University. Busy students balancing academics with personal obligations often benefit from the online program's flexible scheduling options. Bachelor's graduates often secure entry-level careers.
Along with core classes, the human resources program requires advanced coursework that prepares degree-seekers for positions in the field. In addition to classes within the major, undergraduates take general education courses and electives. General education requirements help learners develop and strengthen important skills, such as critical thinking and communication. Faculty mentors help enrollees customize the program based on their professional goals.
In addition to on-campus options in Salt Lake City, Utah, students at the private institution can pursue 65 programs online, including 30 bachelor's degrees. Bachelor's students generally complete about 120 credits to graduate. The institution holds accreditation, which means students can qualify for federal financial aid programs, such as the Pell Grant.
N/A
$6,380
73%
$6,380
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 136,139
- Institution Type
- Private
Rutgers University-New Brunswick
- New Brunswick, NJ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
A New Jersey-based public institution, Rutgers University-New Brunswick offers 33 online programs. The school provides distance learning options for students interested in various fields. One option includes a bachelor's in business administration with a specialization in strategic human resource management.
The curriculum comprises core coursework and advanced classes to prepare degree-seekers for the workforce. Upper-division requirements help learners develop critical thinking and analytical skills, which graduates can apply to careers in a variety of fields. Full-time degree-seekers typically need four years to earn the 120-credit bachelor's degree.
To help learners succeed academically and professionally, the school provides a variety of support services, such as academic advising and career counseling. Enrollees with financial need can fund their education through federal grants and loans.
Rutgers University-New Brunswick Fast Facts:
Rate of Undergraduate Admission: 61%
Total Programs: 374
Total Bachelor's Programs: 117
Online Bachelor's Programs: 9
Offers Transfer Credits: No
24%
$12,230
93%
$29,012
- Acceptance Rate
- 61%
- Students Enrolled
- 50,173
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Birmingham, AL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Online learners can enroll in the bachelor's in human resource management program at University of Alabama at Birmingham. The public institution's academic offerings include 17 online programs. The school offers seven online bachelor's programs, which often benefit degree-seekers with personal or professional responsibilities.
The institution delivers human resources program coursework in a virtual classroom environment, using the latest technology. Degree candidates gain foundational knowledge during core classes and complete advanced coursework to develop specialized skills. Enrollees build transferable skills while completing general education coursework. Undergraduates can participate in internships to gain hands-on experience.
The school provides student support services, such as academic advising and career counseling, to support learners' overall success. The institution holds accreditation, which means students with financial need can qualify for federal grants and loans. Financial aid counselors help students understand funding options, such as scholarships and grants.
59%
$ 8,568
83%
$20,400
- Acceptance Rate
- 74%
- Students Enrolled
- 22,080
- Institution Type
- Public
Colorado State University-Global Campus
- Aurora, CO
- 4 year
- Online
- Accredited
Colorado State University-Global Campus offers an online bachelor's in human resource management for students interested in human resources careers. Learners with personal or professional obligations often benefit from the flexibility of an online program.
This public institution educates enrollees from its Aurora campus. The school's academic offerings include 39 online programs. Working professionals often pursue one of the institution's 15 online bachelor's programs.
Degree-seekers take classes on general education topics, foundational subjects, and more advanced areas of the field. Graduation requirements for the bachelor's program include required coursework and at least 120 credits. Degree candidates complete rigorous coursework that fosters field-specific knowledge and transferable skills applicable to many human resources roles.
Learners can benefit from the school's support services, which include tutoring and career counseling. Online undergraduates and alumni can work with faculty advisors and career counselors. Financial aid counseling can help students reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
N/A
$8,400
N/A
$8,400
- Acceptance Rate
- 99%
- Students Enrolled
- 12,670
- Institution Type
- Public
Anderson University
- Anderson, SC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Anderson University offers an online bachelor of organizational leadership with a concentration in human resource administration. The Anderson, South Carolina-based institution offers numerous online degrees. Working professionals often pursue one of the school's eight online bachelor's programs.
The institution delivers coursework for the human resources program in a virtual classroom environment. The rigorous curriculum covers foundational and advanced human resources topics. While completing general education coursework, degree-seekers develop transferable critical thinking and analytical skills. The program connects learners with experiential learning opportunities like internships.
The school offers student support services including academic advising and career counseling. Students at the accredited institution can qualify for federal grants and loans. Financial aid counseling can help learners reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Academic advisors assist with course selections.
44%
$26,130
80%
$26,130
- Acceptance Rate
- 69%
- Students Enrolled
- 3,543
- Institution Type
- Private
Concordia University-Wisconsin
- Mequon, WI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Concordia University-Wisconsin's online bachelor of arts in human resource management is one of the best online human resources degrees. The Mequon-based school offers academic programs to prepare degree-seekers for careers in various industries. Distance learners can enroll in any of the school's 12 online bachelor's programs.
The online human resources program is ideal for degree-seekers who need flexible scheduling options. Busy learners balancing academics with personal obligations often benefit from the online program's customizable scheduling options. Online classes feature opportunities to connect with classmates and begin building a professional network. Full-time undergraduate degree-seekers typically need four years to earn a bachelor's degree.
Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates. At the accredited institution, distance learners can submit the FAFSA and use federal student aid programs like the Pell Grant to cover costs. Financial aid counselors help enrollees understand funding options, such as scholarships and grants.
39%
$30,060
81%
$30,060
- Acceptance Rate
- 64%
- Students Enrolled
- 5,777
- Institution Type
- Private
Georgia Southwestern State University
- Americus, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Learners interested in human resources can enroll in the bachelor of business administration in human resource management program at Georgia Southwestern State University. The online program features flexible scheduling options that benefit working professionals. After completing the online bachelor's program, graduates often pursue entry-level human resources careers to gain experience and qualify for advanced roles.
The curriculum features specialized classes in the field and foundational core coursework. Learners complete general education requirements to gain widely applicable skills and knowledge and select electives in their interest areas. Faculty mentors assist learners as they tailor the program curriculum to their interests and career aspirations.
In addition to on-campus options in Americus, students at the public institution can pursue 14 programs in an online format. The school's academic offerings include six online bachelor's programs. Degree-seekers with financial need can submit the FAFSA to qualify for federal loans and grants, such as the Pell Grant.
60%
$ 4,064
68%
$14,786
- Acceptance Rate
- 58%
- Students Enrolled
- 2,950
- Institution Type
- Public
Temple University
- Philadelphia, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Students can attend classes at Temple University's campus or online. The school delivers 35 online programs, with 493 total programs available. Working professionals can enroll in the flexible bachelor of business administration in human resource management program without sacrificing their current employment.
To graduate with a bachelor's, learners fulfill general education and major requirements. Electives and experiential learning opportunities help degree-seekers gain skills they can apply to human resources careers. The school's career counselors help undergraduates prepare to secure professional roles after graduation.
Enrollees with financial need can submit the FAFSA to qualify for federal loans and grants, such as the Pell Grant. For details about application deadlines and requirements, prospective applicants can contact an admissions advisor.
Temple University Facts:
Total Bachelor's Programs: 137
Online Bachelor's Programs: 6
Number of Online Students: 8,041
Percent of Students Admitted: 60%
Graduation Rate: 74%
Average Fee Per Credit: Not Known
Transfer Credits Permitted: No
21%
$16,080
89%
$28,992
- Acceptance Rate
- 60%
- Students Enrolled
- 38,794
- Institution Type
- Public
Regent University
- Virginia Beach, VA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Degree-seekers can enroll in online and in-person programs at Regent University. The private institution offers 137 online programs, along with in-person programs at its campus in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The school's bachelor of science in human resource management helps degree-seekers gain the knowledge and skills necessary for careers in human resources.
The online human resources program's scheduling flexibility is ideal for enrollees balancing academics with personal and professional obligations. The human resources program takes place in a virtual classroom environment. Students in online classes can participate in asynchronous discussions and network with peers. The 120-credit online bachelor's program takes most full-time degree-seekers about four years to complete.
The institution holds accreditation, which means degree-seekers can submit the FAFSA to receive federal grants and loans. Financial aid counselors help students understand funding options, such as scholarships and grants. At the school, 99% of undergraduates obtain financial aid to pay for their degree.
92%
$17,220
78%
$17,220
- Acceptance Rate
- 86%
- Students Enrolled
- 10,365
- Institution Type
- Private
Price Check
Each year, the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) Foundation offers $400,000 in scholarships to graduate and undergraduate students studying human resources.
Why Choose an Online Human Resources Degree?
Earning an online bachelor’s degree in HR can be the first step toward entering this field. Many accredited online schools offer HR either as a stand-alone major or as a concentration under a general business degree.
Typically, online HR programs require students to take the same courses as their on-campus counterparts, but learning online allows you to study on your schedule and may help you save money on tuition and other education costs. Some other advantages of getting your HR degree online include:
- Work, make money, and advance your career while earning your degree.
- Pay reduced tuition at some schools and choose from a broader selection of colleges.
- Study in your home office, at your kitchen table, or wherever is most convenient for you.
Career Outlook for Human Resources Graduates
Multiple HR-adjacent career paths are poised for strong rates of near-term growth as employers increasingly turn to specialists to oversee workforce management and development programs. The following table profiles five common and growing career paths you can pursue with a human resources degree:
| Job | Annual Median Wage, May 2024 | Job Outlook (2024-34) |
|---|---|---|
| Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialist | $77,020 | 5% |
| Compliance Officer | $78,420 | 3% |
| HR Manager | $140,030 | 5% |
| HR Specialist | $72,910 | 6% |
| Training and Development Specialist | $65,850 | 11% |
Human Resources Licensing and Certification Requirements
In general, certification is voluntary for HR professionals; however, a certification can demonstrate up-to-date knowledge and experience in the field. A 2024 study from the Institute for Applied Management & Law also found that HR professionals who hold certifications earn substantially higher salaries than their non-certified counterparts.
Certifications are different from certificate programs and licenses. Professional associations offer certifications, universities offer certificates, and state agencies provide licenses. Standard HR certifications include:
- Certified Professional Coach: Offered by the Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching, this credential can equip you to assess and empower corporate leaders to improve their performance.
- Certified Compensation Professional: The World at Work’s CCP credential can validate your experience and skills in compensation within single-country organizations. The Global Remuneration Professional certification provides similar validation for people working in multinational companies.
- SHRM Certified Professional: The world’s largest HR membership organization offers the SHRM-CP standard certification for HR-related professionals and people aspiring to work in HR.
- SHRM Senior Certified Professional: The SHRM-SCP certification can help HR professionals with at least three years of experience move into strategic-level roles. This certification requires you to hold the SHRM-CP in order to qualify.
Ways to Save on a Human Resources Degree
Few students pay the sticker price for their education, relying instead on financial aid packages that may include grants, scholarships, work-study jobs, employer reimbursement, and student loans.
The path to getting financial aid begins with completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Fill out this form to find out what government-supported grants, loans, or work-study opportunities you may qualify to receive
- 1
Apply for scholarships.
Scholarships are privately funded student aid programs that require you to compete for their dollars. Some scholarships are merit-based, meaning you qualify based on your scholastic, athletic, or community service record. Scholarships for human resources majors specifically include:
- 2
Get your employer to pay.
According to the SHRM, nearly half of all employers offered tuition assistance to their staff in 2024. Also in 2024, the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans found that 92% of U.S. employers offered some type of educational benefit to their workers. Check with your HR department about what funds might be available to you.
- 3
Study online.
As an online learner, you can cut major student expenses, including transportation and parking costs from your budget. You also gain access to many more schools, creating choice in your search for savings.
Frequently Asked Questions About Human Resources Programs
An associate degree program in HR can prepare you for an entry-level position, but you need at least a bachelor’s degree to become a manager. An MBA or an MS in human resources can help prepare you for a senior leadership position.
