Most Affordable Online Human Resources Degrees
Human resources (HR) is the corporate division that handles talent recruitment, onboarding, compensation, and development. HR professionals can be specialists, managers, directors, or executives. They can either focus on a single area, such as compensation, or manage a team.
Earning an online bachelor’s degree in HR can be the first step toward entering this field. Many online schools offer HR either as a stand-alone major or as a concentration under a general business degree.
Explore the page below to learn more about the most affordable online human resources degrees, paying for your education, and what you can do after graduation.
10 Most Affordable Online Human Resources Degrees
Florida International University
Miami, FL- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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.
- In-State$4,721
- Out-of-state$16,529
- In-State$8,912
- Out-of-state$21,393
- Retention Rate89%
- Acceptance Rate58%
- Students Enrolled58,711
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment68%
- AccreditationYes
Western Governors University
- Salt Lake City, UT
- 4 year
- Online
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.
- In-State$6,380
- Out-of-state$6,380
- In-State$7,500
- Out-of-state$7,500
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled136,139
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online EnrollmentNot provided
- AccreditationYes
Rutgers University-New Brunswick
- New Brunswick, NJ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$12,230
- Out-of-state$29,012
- In-State$17,736
- Out-of-state$30,144
- Retention Rate93%
- Acceptance Rate61%
- Students Enrolled50,173
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment24%
- AccreditationYes
University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Birmingham, AL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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.
- In-State$8,568
- Out-of-state$20,400
- In-State$8,100
- Out-of-state$19,188
- Retention Rate83%
- Acceptance Rate74%
- Students Enrolled22,080
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment59%
- AccreditationYes
Colorado State University-Global Campus
- Aurora, CO
- 4 year
- Online
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.
- In-State$8,400
- Out-of-state$8,400
- In-State$9,000
- Out-of-state$9,000
- Retention RateNot provided
- Acceptance Rate99%
- Students Enrolled12,670
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online EnrollmentNot provided
- AccreditationYes
Anderson University
- Anderson, SC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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.
- In-State$26,130
- Out-of-state$26,130
- In-State$9,651
- Out-of-state$9,651
- Retention Rate80%
- Acceptance Rate69%
- Students Enrolled3,543
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment44%
- AccreditationYes
Concordia University-Wisconsin
- Mequon, WI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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.
- In-State$30,060
- Out-of-state$30,060
- In-State$11,052
- Out-of-state$11,052
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate64%
- Students Enrolled5,777
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
Georgia Southwestern State University
- Americus, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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.
- In-State$4,064
- Out-of-state$14,786
- In-State$3,492
- Out-of-state$13,806
- Retention Rate68%
- Acceptance Rate58%
- Students Enrolled2,950
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment60%
- AccreditationYes
Temple University
- Philadelphia, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$16,080
- Out-of-state$28,992
- In-State$16,956
- Out-of-state$23,346
- Retention Rate89%
- Acceptance Rate60%
- Students Enrolled38,794
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment21%
- AccreditationYes
Regent University
- Virginia Beach, VA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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.
- In-State$17,220
- Out-of-state$17,220
- In-State$15,552
- Out-of-state$15,552
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate86%
- Students Enrolled10,365
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment92%
- AccreditationYes
What Is a Bachelor’s in Human Resources?
A bachelor’s degree in human resources is a business management degree focused on recruiting, training, managing, compensating, and rewarding company employees. This program usually requires students to earn 120 credits and takes about four years to complete.
Sometimes, the degree is called a bachelor of business administration (BBA) instead of the more common bachelor of arts (BA) or bachelor of science (BS). A BBA typically focuses on general business leadership, while a BA or a BS emphasizes the human resources component of the program. Regardless of the degree an HR program confers, however, you will likely cover similar content and acquire the same skills.
Coursework often consists of a general education component, core business courses, human resources courses, internship options, and perhaps a final project such as an exit exam or portfolio. Typical HR courses include onboarding talent acquisition, pay and benefits administration, and legal compliance in HR management.
Can I get an HR degree online?
Yes, you can get an HR degree online from one of many accredited universities that offer this major. 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.
Advantages of online degrees
- Work, make money, and advance your career while earning your degree.
- Pay reduced tuition at some schools.
- Study in your home office, at your kitchen table, or wherever is most convenient for you.
Disadvantages of online degrees
- Household chores, pets, or family members may distract you from studying.
- Technology can malfunction, causing you to lose learning time.
- You may miss the face-to-face interaction of an in-person classroom.
The Cost of a Bachelor’s Degree in HR
Average Annual Cost of a Bachelor’s in Business/Management
Online Program
$22,676
Campus-Based Program
$30,792
Using the data in the table above, a four-year degree in business or management could cost between $90,000 and $120,000.
Your top-ranked schools may — or may not — reflect these averages because many factors determine your actual expenses. For example, online programs are often more affordable than on-campus degrees, and an in-state public university usually charges lower tuition than a private liberal arts college.
However, some private schools provide generous financial aid packages that can offset their higher price tags. As a result, it’s important to compare your top choices’ actual out-of-pocket costs with each other, not only to the national average.
Finally, when comparing your options, be sure to match up similar expense lines. For instance, you want to compare tuition at one school to tuition at another and not assess one school’s tuition against another’s total price.
How to Afford an Online 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).
Submit the FAFSA.
The FAFSA is the U.S. government’s application form for federal student aid. Fill out this form to find out what government-supported grants, loans, or work-study opportunities you may qualify to receive. For example, the FAFSA’s algorithm determines how much money you can get from a Pell Grant, which offers free funds to undergraduate students who meet the income requirements.
Many private donors also request copies of your FAFSA when you apply for scholarships or school-funded work-study initiatives.
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. Other scholarships may restrict their funds to selected groups, such as students of a certain race, heritage, background, religion, or sexual orientation.
Scholarships for human resources majors include:
- Society for Human Resource Management Foundation Scholarships
- Pamela Sue Schmidt Student Award for Outstanding Service to the Community
- Hershey Entertainment & Resorts Scholarships
Get your employer to pay.
According to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), nearly half of all employers offered tuition assistance to their staff in 2022. Per WTW, in 2021, about 88% of large companies did the same or planned to provide the benefit soon. Some employers reimburse employees after they successfully complete a class, while others offer tuition assistance upfront. Check with your HR department about what funds might be available to you.
Price Check
The SHRM Foundation annually offers $400,000 in scholarships to graduate and undergraduate students studying human resources.
What Can You Do With a Human Resources Degree?
HR Specialist
Median Salary (2024)
$72,910
Job Growth (2022-2032)
6%
HR Manager
Median Salary (2024)
$140,030
Job Growth (2022-2032)
5%
HR managers lead human resources departments or teams, while HR specialists work on specific tasks within those departments or teams.
- HR Managers: These professionals oversee all aspects of an HR department, including recruiting, training, benefits, payroll, and performance management. In a small organization, they may serve as the most senior HR employee. Larger organizations, however, may also employ HR directors, vice presidents, or chief executives.
- HR Specialists: An HR specialist can take on many roles. They may recruit fresh talent, onboard new hires, and/or manage compensation and benefits. With an HR degree or certification, an HR specialist could pursue a management position after gaining experience.
Some HR graduates work in less traditional roles. They may serve as training and development managers, recruiters, or chief diversity officers. HR is a broad field with many potential applications.
Certifications for HR Professionals
A certification can demonstrate up-to-date knowledge and experience in human resources. One study from Payscale found that HR certifications also resulted in salary increases between 2.9% and 28% as of 2018.
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: TheSHRM-SCP can help HR professionals with at least three years of experience to move into strategic-level roles. This certification requires you to hold the SHRM-CP already.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Most Affordable Online Human Resources Degrees
What degree is best for human resources?
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. You may need a doctorate in HR, however, to teach aspiring HR professionals at the undergraduate level.
Is an online human resources degree worth it?
According to the BLS, human resource managers earned a median annual salary of $140,030 in 2024, considerably higher than the national median of $49,500.
NCES reports that a bachelor’s degree in human resources costs an average of $22,676 for online programs to $30,792 for on-campus programs per year. Only you can determine if this potential return on investment is worth it.
How long does it take to get an HR degree?
An associate degree takes about two years to earn, while a bachelor’s degree typically requires four years. If you hold transferable credits, AP courses, CLEP credits, or other qualifying prior learning experiences, you may be able to shorten your time to graduation.
Most MS and MBA in human resources programs take 2-3 years to complete, although some schools offer accelerated options. A doctoral degree in HR generally requires 5-6 years of work beyond the bachelor’s degree.
What classes are needed for a human resources degree?
You can expect to take courses like compensation and benefits, introductory statistics, and managing diversity in the workplace. However, each university determines its unique curriculum, and the exact courses you will take may depend on whether you are pursuing an HR major or a business degree with a concentration in HR.
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