Best Online Human Resources Degrees

Find the best online human resources degree with our list of top-rated schools that offer accredited online programs in human resources.
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Updated November 27, 2023

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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 6% from 2022-2032. 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

Best Online Bachelor's in 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.

#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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,380
Out-of-state
$6,380
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,500
Out-of-state
$7,500
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
147,866
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,230
Out-of-state
$29,012
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$17,736
Out-of-state
$30,144
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
50,411
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
33% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,400
Out-of-state
$8,400
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,000
Out-of-state
$9,000
Retention Rate
47%
Acceptance Rate
98%
Students Enrolled
12,578
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,552
Out-of-state
$9,552
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$17,096
Out-of-state
$17,096
Retention Rate
42%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
89,763
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,182
Out-of-state
$9,342
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,024
Out-of-state
$12,024
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
10,495
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,576
Out-of-state
$9,576
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,350
Out-of-state
$10,350
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
39%
Students Enrolled
1,041
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,200
Out-of-state
$11,976
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,640
Out-of-state
$11,862
Retention Rate
55%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
58,526
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
92% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,474
Out-of-state
$8,294
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,060
Out-of-state
$6,060
Retention Rate
63%
Acceptance Rate
99%
Students Enrolled
1,441
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
53% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$40,680
Out-of-state
$40,680
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$21,420
Out-of-state
$21,420
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
70%
Students Enrolled
8,286
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
79% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#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)

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,148
Out-of-state
$14,148
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,767
Out-of-state
$14,767
Retention Rate
45%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
38,930
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,365
Out-of-state
$13,365
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,148
Out-of-state
$14,148
Retention Rate
50%
Acceptance Rate
36%
Students Enrolled
2,152
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,640
Out-of-state
$5,640
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,900
Out-of-state
$3,900
Retention Rate
62%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
18,533
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Distance Education Accrediting Commission

#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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$16,080
Out-of-state
$28,992
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,956
Out-of-state
$23,346
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Students Enrolled
37,236
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
92% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
Not provided
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
No

#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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,369
Out-of-state
$11,369
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,703
Out-of-state
$8,703
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
690
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,960
Out-of-state
$9,960
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,510
Out-of-state
$12,510
Retention Rate
61%
Acceptance Rate
54%
Students Enrolled
6,028
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
69% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,070
Out-of-state
$16,980
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,310
Out-of-state
$23,100
Retention Rate
65%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
10,724
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
78% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,105
Out-of-state
$11,105
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,703
Out-of-state
$8,703
Retention Rate
50%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
9,055
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,536
Out-of-state
$8,760
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,684
Out-of-state
$10,620
Retention Rate
43%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,879
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
98% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$7,176
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,710
Out-of-state
$10,710
Retention Rate
51%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
13,059
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
96% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
Best Online Programs Get Ranking Seal

Online Human Resources Degree Programs Ranking Guidelines

We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.

Our Methodology

Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.

Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools cannot buy better rankings at TBS.

While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.

  • Academics
  • Affordability
  • Online Enrollment

Data Sources

The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.

The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the College Navigator.

Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from AcademicInfluence.com, subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.

Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology

About Our Ranking Factors

Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.

Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.

We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.

Academics - 75%

Affordability - 15%

Online Enrollment - 10%

In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.

If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through contact page.

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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.

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 $64,240, according to the BLS. This figure surpasses the median annual salary of $46,310 for all occupations. Human resources managers earn $130,000.

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.

All You Need to Know About Accreditation

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 California earn a mean annual wage of $86,260. The same professionals in Ohio only earn $68,650.

HR managers with less than one year of experience earn an average of $56,000 annually, according to Payscale data. The same professionals with more than 10 years of experience earn $78,000.

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.

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.



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