If you're passionate about helping organizations attract, develop, and retain talented employees, an Associate's in Human Resources could be the perfect foundation for a rewarding career. As you start exploring human resources programs, you'll find that there are various options available, both online and at local community colleges near you.

At Dreambound, our goal is to provide unbiased information to help you make an informed decision. In this post, we'll cover:

• Online vs on-campus human resources Associate's programs
• Career opportunities with an Associate's in Human Resources
• Is an Associate's in Human Resources worth it
• Differences between an Associate of Science (AS) and Associate of Arts (AA) in Human Resources

Online vs on-campus human resources Associate's programs

Online programs

An increasing number of accredited community colleges and universities are offering fully online Associate's in Human Resources, making it possible to earn this degree while juggling work or personal responsibilities.

Here are some advantages of the online format:

• Flexibility: Access and complete coursework on your own schedule, as long as you adhere to deadlines. Many people can't attend classes offered by the nearest in-person college, so online programs provide an alternative
• Accelerated: Online programs are often accelerated. If your goal is to earn your degree as quickly as possible, online programs may be the best choice
• Specializations: Some online Associate's in Human Resources programs offer specializations if you have a specific interest, such as employee benefits or labor relations. In-person Associate's in Human Resources programs may not have these options
• Variety & shopping: Many online colleges now offer an Associate's in Human Resources. You can explore and compare programs from institutions nationwide without having to relocate
• Designed for adults: Since adults often require more flexibility than recent high school graduates seeking a traditional college experience, many online associate's programs cater to adult learners. This usually means greater flexibility and more credit transfer opportunities if you have prior education

While the curriculum and graduation requirements are similar to on-campus versions, the online experience involves more self-directed learning through recorded lectures, virtual discussions, and independent projects.

A few examples of online Associate's in Human Resources programs:

Madison Area Technical College

• Length: 60 credits (2-year program)
• Cost: US College Scorecard reports an average cost of $10,038/year
• Outcomes: US College Scorecard reports $43,770/year median earnings

Colorado Christian University

• Length: 60 credits (5-week courses taken throughout four semesters); this program may be completed in two years.
• Cost: US College Scorecard reports an average cost of $25,681/year
• Outcomes: US College Scorecard reports $48,890/year median earnings

Discover the Cheapest and Fastest Human Resource Administration Programs, as well as Online Human Resource Administration classes tailored to your requirements.

In-Person or Hybrid Human Resources Associate's Programs

The traditional on-campus route is a good fit for those who prefer a more conventional college experience with face-to-face classes, campus resources, and close interaction with professors and classmates.

Location is important since you'll be attending in-person. Check which community colleges or universities offer affordable Associate's in Human Resources programs nearby. Tuition at public in-state community colleges averages around $3,770 per year, while tuition at private two-year colleges costs about $17,000 annually.

Here are some of the advantages:

• Consistent class schedules with weekly meetings provide structure, which can be particularly helpful for those who find online classes challenging.
• Engage in hands-on learning experiences, practical projects, and simulated interviews.
• Avail networking prospects through your college's ties with local businesses, offering opportunities for internships and community involvement.
• Utilize campus facilities, libraries, and immerse yourself in student life.

A few examples of well-regarded local human resources Associate's programs:

Georgia Piedmont Technical College

• Length: 64 credits (2-year program)
• Cost: US College Scorecard reports average cost of $10,111/year
• Outcomes: US College Scorecard reports $31,873/year median earnings

Milwaukee Area Technical College

• Length: 62 credit hours (2-year program)
• Cost: US College Scorecard reports average cost of $9,254/year
• Outcomes: US College Scorecard reports $37,727/year median earnings

How to Choose: Online vs Local

To decide between an online or local human resources Associate's program, consider factors like:

• Learning Style: Online requires strong self-motivation; on-campus is ideal for face-to-face learners
• Cost: Costs can vary significantly. Online allows you to compare options for the most affordable, but there may be an inexpensive in-person program near you as well
• Schedule: Online is flexible, while on-campus requires set class times each term
• Career Goals: An on-campus program may provide more hands-on learning, networking, and internship opportunities related to your specific interests

Dreambound can help you find Human Resource Administration classes near you. With its user-friendly interface, you can filter the class format, available payment options, and more to tailor your search specifically to your needs.

How to Choose: AA vs AS

When considering an Associate's degree in human resources, one of the main decisions is whether to pursue an Associate of Arts (A.A.) or an Associate of Science (A.S.) in Human Resources. Here are some key differences between the two:

Associate of Arts (A.A.) in Human Resources

• Typically has more general education requirements like humanities, arts, and social science courses
• Leaves more room for electives outside of the human resources major
• Curriculum focuses more on the interpersonal, communication, and conceptual aspects of human resources

An A.A. provides a more well-rounded education which can be good preparation for roles in human resources, employee relations, training and development, and other fields where strong communication and people skills are valuable.

Associate of Science (A.S.) in Human Resources

• Has more extensive requirements in business, management, and quantitative courses
• Curriculum emphasizes the analytical and strategic side of human resources through increased coursework in employment law, compensation and benefits, and HR information systems

Admissions requirements, curriculum, and costs are generally similar for A.A. or A.S. human resources programs at the same institution. The main differentiator is the balance of general education versus business and quantitative courses within the major coursework. Understanding the duration of your educational path, as explored in 'How Long Does It Take to Become a Human Resource Administrator?', is crucial in shaping your expectations for the journey ahead.

So, should you choose an AA or AS? It doesn't really matter, as we haven't found evidence that one is superior to the other. However, employers generally value analytical skills more, which you may gain more of with the AS, but can certainly acquire with an AA as well. AS degrees are typically more challenging than AAs, so if you're concerned about not completing the program, the AA may be a safer choice.

What Can You Do With an Associate's in Human Resources?

Graduates with an Associate's in Human Resources often join industries such as:

• Corporate HR departments (HR assistant, recruiter, benefits coordinator)
• Staffing and recruitment agencies (staffing coordinator, talent acquisition specialist)
• Government agencies (HR clerk, personnel assistant)
• Non-profit organizations (HR generalist, volunteer coordinator)
• Healthcare (HR representative, credentialing specialist)
• Education (HR assistant, staff coordinator)

While an Associate's degree can open doors to entry-level positions, many higher-paying jobs in human resources (e.g., HR manager, compensation and benefits manager, training and development manager) require a bachelor's degree or higher. Consider this if you have specific career goals in mind.

There are also many less traditional paths, such as employee wellness coordinator, diversity and inclusion specialist, or HR consultant. Whatever job you end up pursuing, it's crucial to develop relevant skills and gain practical experience through internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work. Many HR graduates struggle to find jobs if they don't have hands-on experience or professional certifications.

Exploring the salary potential and employment opportunities is essential for those interested in pursuing a career as a Human Resource Administrator. Two key inquiries to delve into when researching this profession are How Much Does a Human Resource Administrator Make and Where Can a Human Resource Administrator Work?

During Your Human Resources Program

In your human resources coursework, you'll develop a broad understanding of HR principles, including recruitment and selection, employee relations, compensation and benefits, training and development, and employment law. You'll learn to think strategically, analyze HR data, create HR policies, and understand the ethical considerations in HR practices.

Commonly required courses include:

• Introduction to Human Resources
• Employment Law
• Staffing and Recruitment
• Compensation and Benefits
• Employee Training and Development
• Organizational Behavior
• Human Resources Information Systems

Some programs offer electives or concentrations in areas like labor relations, diversity and inclusion, or HR analytics.

Related Alternative Programs

If you have different interests, other associate's program options to consider include:

• Business Administration
• Organizational Leadership
• Labor Studies
• Psychology
• Sociology
• Communications

While human resources focuses on managing an organization's workforce, these alternative majors put more emphasis on general business skills, leadership strategies, labor relations, understanding human behavior, or effective communication.

Whichever path you choose, know that studying human resources provides a foundation for a wide range of rewarding career opportunities where you can make a positive impact on an organization and its employees.

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