Human Resources Administration Program

A human resources specialist works in a business’s HR department and helps with recruiting, managing employee contracts, and payroll. (1)

Working as an HR administrator requires knowledge of office software, including specialized payroll systems and records management applications. HR administrators also need strong business ethics, communication, and other interpersonal skills. (2)

Check out the SJVC blog for more information on building HR skills.

Only you can decide if an online human resources certificate program is right for you. Students may enjoy working in human resources if they like working with others, collaborating on teams, or learning about business settings.

Students in SJVC’s HRA programs may go on to work as:

• Administrative Services Managers
• Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks
• Customer Service Representatives
• Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants
• General and Operations Managers
• Human Resources Specialists
• Office Clerks, General
• Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Except Technical and Scientific Products

Human resource specialists and managers have different roles in an HR department. HR managers have a supervisory role, while HR specialists, especially in larger organizations, handle specific programs or departments such as compensation and benefits, training, and development. (1)

Deciding between an Associate Degree in Human Resources and a certificate depends on your needs. If you’re looking to complete your education more quickly, a Human Resources Administration certificate can be earned in less time.

At SJVC, you can earn your Human Resources Administration Certificate of Completion in as few as 7 months. If you decide to pursue an Associate Degree in Human Resources Administration, you can complete the program in as few as 14 months.

There is no single degree required to work in human resources. Some entry-level HR positions may be accessible with a Human Resources Administration certificate or an associate degree, while some employers may prefer a bachelor’s degree for advanced HR roles. Educational requirements can vary depending on the employer, position, and level of responsibility. Training in Human Resources Administration can help prepare students for roles that support employee onboarding, training, benefits administration, payroll, and personnel records management. (3)

One of the best aspects of online degree programs in human resources is that they offer the flexibility to learn around your schedule while teaching foundational concepts and practical skills through an industry-aligned curriculum.

Applicants to the SJVC Human Resources Administration program must meet the general requirements for admission to the college and attain a minimum score of 12 on the Wonderlic Scholastic Level Exam – QuickTest before enrollment. For more information, contact the SJVC Admissions Department.