Best Online Human Resources Degrees 2023

Every organization needs a human resources specialist. These top online HR programs can make you the most competitive candidate for the job.
By
portrait of Meg Embry
Meg Embry
Read Full Bio

Writer

Meg Embry is a writer at BestColleges covering all things career and education related. An award-winning journalist and editor, she has lived and worked in Canada, the Netherlands, and the United States....
Updated on May 18, 2023
Edited by
portrait of Margaret Weinhold
Margaret Weinhold
Read Full Bio

Editor

Margaret Weinhold is an associate editor for BestColleges, where she focuses on core content. She is passionate about increasing visibility and accessibility around higher education. Margaret holds a BA in English from the University of Virginia....
Learn more about our editorial process

www.bestcolleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Finding A Program That's Right For You

Get equipped with the resources that will help you easily navigate your learning journey.

v2 guides
  • Browse programs to find what you like best
  • Discover schools that match your goals and aspirations
  • Request more information

  • An online HR program can make you competitive for many rewarding human resources jobs.
  • Human resources specialists and managers are responsible for the people-side of corporate operations.
  • HR grads can find jobs across fields and industries all over the country.
  • Job outlook and pay for human resources professionals is on-par with the outlook and average pay for all jobs.

You like people. You like to run things. You're business-savvy. You should probably consider a career in human resources.

HR professionals manage the lifecycle of employees — including hiring, training, placement, salaries, and benefits. They handle workplace complaints and develop policies to help employees thrive. A good HR specialist can set the tone for the entire workplace.

If that sounds like something you'd enjoy, here's what you should do next:

  • Check Circle
    Explore this page to determine whether this path is the right choice for you.
  • Check Circle
    Check out the top-ranked online bachelor's in human resources programs as well as our sponsored programs.
  • Check Circle
    Request more information from schools you're interested in to find the best fit for you.

Is a Human Resources Degree Worth It?

A human resources degree can be worth it for people who are interested in two things: other people and making a business run smoothly.

The pay in human resources tends to be pretty good, the job outlook is promising, and folks in the field find the work rewarding.

"What I love about HR is that no two days are ever the same — there are always new, exciting challenges to tackle," said Cody Rusher, a human resources associate partner who supports corporate technology at Red Ventures.

"I get to support leaders as they navigate difficult situations. I get to connect people with the tools and resources they need to grow and develop. I get to impact folks across the organization, while also supporting the business as a strategic planner and consultant."

Benefits of an HR Degree

  • Learn to hire, manage, and train employees.
  • Master the fundamentals of business, including accounting, economics, and marketing.
  • Understand how to manage organizations effectively.
  • Gain entry into an array of well-paid management careers.

Why Get a HR Degree Online?

  • Fit school into your life, instead of the other way around.Online programs offer all the flexibility you need.
  • Save money on relocation and commuting costs, as well as many on-campus fees.
  • Develop industry-important soft skills like self-motivation, time management, and communication.
  • Dramatically boost your income potential while minimizing your opportunity costs.

Read More: What Specializations Are There in Human Resources?

Featured Human Resource Management Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

How Much Does an Online Bachelor's in Human Resources Cost?

We all know college isn't cheap. The total average cost for four years (and only about 40% of students finish that quickly) is nearly $60,000. That is why it's so important to find online programs that can get you a quality education without the massive price tag.

Annual Average Tuition Cost of a Bachelor's Degree | 2020-2021

Public Institution

$9,375

Private Institution

$32,825

Source: National Center for Education Statistics

Total Average Net Cost of Four Years of College | 2020-2021

Public Institution

$56,000

Private Institution (Nonprofit)

$112,000

Source: BestColleges

Here are some other ways to keep costs down while you pursue a degree:

  • Check Circle
    Attend a public, in-state university.
  • Check Circle
    Apply for grants, scholarships, and other forms of financial aid that you won't have to pay back.
  • Check Circle
    Select a school that accepts transfer credits or rewards credit for work and volunteer experiences.
  • Check Circle
    Prioritize flexible programs that let you hold down a job at the same time.

Read More: How Much Does an Online College Cost?

Best Online Human Resources Degrees

Rankings compiled by the BestColleges Ranking Team

How We Rank Schools

At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We want to help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.

Our rankings are grounded in a few guiding principles and use the latest statistical data available from trusted sources. Read our ranking methodology. We hope our approach helps you find the school that is best for you.

These rankings were compiled by our BestColleges Ranking Team and include BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. from our partners. We use publicly available provisional datasets from Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) to inform the data for these schools. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

  • Browse programs
  • Discover matches
  • Request info
#1 Best Online Human Resources Degrees 2023

Franklin University

  • Columbus, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

100% Online | 6- and 12-Week Courses

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $398
Out of State | $398

Credits to Graduate
124

Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | International Accreditation Council for Business Education, Higher Learning Commission

Franklin University offers an online BS in human resources management. The human resources degree at Franklin University teaches you all of the skills needed to qualify for human resources jobs in areas like recruiting, employee relations, and labor relations. You'll learn how to determine appropriate staffing levels, bargain with labor unions, and resolve conflicts.

This transfer-friendly bachelor's degree in human resources allows you to transfer up to 76% of the required credits for the degree. Doing so can save you quite a bit of money on tuition.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,552
Out-of-state
$9,552
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,080
Out-of-state
$16,080
Retention Rate
9%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
5,926
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#2 Best Online Human Resources Degrees 2023

Brenau University

  • Gainesville, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Online or On Campus | Not Specified

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $718
Out of State | $718

Credits to Graduate
Not Specified

Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

The bachelor of business administration in human resources management from Brenau University can be taken in person in Gainesville or online. Brenau's bachelor of business administration degree prepares students for careers in the human resources field.

You'll take courses designed to prepare you for the certification exams offered by the Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) and the HR Certification Institute (HRCI), which may help you when applying for jobs.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$30,000
Out-of-state
$30,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,356
Out-of-state
$13,356
Retention Rate
53%
Admission Rate
92%
Students Enrolled
2,813
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
70% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Best Online Human Resources Degrees 2023

McKendree University

  • Lebanon, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

100% Online | 8-Week Courses

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $405
Out of State | $405

Credits to Graduate
Not Specified

Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission

McKendree University offers an online human resource management degree. And McKendree's bachelor's in human resources has flexible online classes, so you can take two courses per eight-week session. You'll focus your studies on core business principles, bridging the gap between theory and practice. 

Some of the courses McKendree offers include organizational behavior, international business, business ethics and social response, business strategy and policy, and consumer behavior.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$31,100
Out-of-state
$31,100
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,324
Out-of-state
$9,324
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
70%
Students Enrolled
2,200
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
28% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#4 Best Online Human Resources Degrees 2023

Ottawa University-Online

  • Ottawa, KS
  • 4 years
  • Online

100% Online | Flexible Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $499
Out of State | $499

Credits to Graduate
Not Specified

Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission

Ottawa University-Online offers an online BA in human resources. Ottawa's program includes four concentrations available in economics, finance, health care management, and leadership and management.

The SHRM-approved curriculum teaches you about benefits and compensation, employment and staffing, policies and procedures for human resources, and methods for hiring and firing employees.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,856
Out-of-state
$10,856
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,044
Out-of-state
$11,044
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
221
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#5 Best Online Human Resources Degrees 2023

Maryville University of Saint Louis

  • Saint Louis, MO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

100% Online | Flexible Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $500
Out of State | $500

Credits to Graduate
128

Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission

Maryville University of Saint Louis offers an online BS in human resource management. This human resources degree covers current trends, issues, and technology in human resources. Plus, it teaches you to effectively manage employees.

Maryville University's program offers a transfer credit friendly admissions process and a curriculum that meets SHRM standards. You can gain hands-on experience by participating in an optional internship. And Maryville's early access program allows you to earn credits toward your graduate degrees as part of the bachelor's program. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$24,766
Out-of-state
$24,766
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,346
Out-of-state
$14,346
Retention Rate
83%
Admission Rate
95%
Students Enrolled
10,979
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
83% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#6 Best Online Human Resources Degrees 2023

Montreat College

  • Montreat, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

100% Online | 8-Week Courses

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $425
Out of State | $425

Credits to Graduate
120

Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

Montreat College offers a bachelor's in human resource management that focuses on human resource fundamentals and how they relate to business. Topics covered in this program include organizational behavior, knowledge management, and team development.

Montreat's program requires an overall GPA of at least 2.0 on all previous college work attempts. And as part of the program, you must complete an individual business project. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$28,500
Out-of-state
$28,500
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,036
Out-of-state
$9,036
Retention Rate
68%
Admission Rate
71%
Students Enrolled
950
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
64% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Best Online Human Resources Degrees 2023

Immaculata University

  • Immaculata, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

100% Online | Not Specified

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $747.22
Out of State | $747.22

Credits to Graduate
Not Specified

Program Information
Degree Completion Program | Yes
Program Accreditation | Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Immaculata University offers a bachelor's in human resources management. This bachelor's degree covers topics such as health and safety program administration, risk management, labor relations management, compensation and benefits, and leadership development.

Immaculata's human resources curriculum is aligned with SHRM's recommendations. The balanced liberal arts curriculum covers management, statistics, marketing, business and labor law, and general business. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$26,900
Out-of-state
$26,900
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,780
Out-of-state
$12,780
Retention Rate
83%
Admission Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
2,563
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
82% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#8 Best Online Human Resources Degrees 2023

Metropolitan State University

  • Saint Paul, MN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Online, On Campus, or Hybrid | Not Specified

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $285.70
Out of State | $285.70

Credits to Graduate
Not Specified

Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, Higher Learning Commission

Metropolitan State University's HR program prepares you for careers in business, government, and nonprofit organizations. Metro State's bachelor's degree in human resources gives you the skills you need to become a personnel manager, recruiter, job analyst, labor relations specialist, and human resources manager.

The curriculum emphasizes current management thought and practice, including the importance of human capital in today's business environment. You'll learn about labor relations, employee relations, employee development, benefits, and compensation.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,136
Out-of-state
$14,560
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,405
Out-of-state
$16,810
Retention Rate
66%
Admission Rate
62%
Students Enrolled
7,552
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
93% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#9 Best Online Human Resources Degrees 2023

Baker College

  • Owosso, MI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

100% Online or Hybrid | Asynchronous and Synchronous

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $435
Out of State | $435

Credits to Graduate
120 (average)

Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | International Accreditation Council for Business Education, Higher Learning Commission

Baker Colleges' human resources degree provides you with the skills you need to land an entry-level human resources position. This program at Baker College recognizes the importance of learning tangible skills you can apply in your career. Your curriculum covers real-world activities, such as recruitment, selection, and training and development. 

You can choose to take your HR courses through Baker Online, which provides asynchronous courses, or Online Live, which provide synchronous courses. Most general education and prerequisite courses are available both online and on campus.

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%
Admission 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
#10 Best Online Human Resources Degrees 2023

Utah Valley University

  • Orem, UT
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

100% Online | Flexible Courses

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $156-$234
Out of State | $260

Credits to Graduate
Not Specified

Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Utah Valley University's online human resources degree provides you the same hands-on experience as students learning in-person. And UVU's program allows you to earn credentials from the Human Resources Certification Institute while earning your bachelor's degrees.

The program encourages you to network with HR professionals across different industries, so you can learn from experienced employees in the field. Upon graduation, you are encouraged to participate in UVU's commencement and convocation ceremonies.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,192
Out-of-state
$16,092
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,541
Out-of-state
$25,977
Retention Rate
67%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
40,936
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
70% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

How Long Does it Take to Earn an HR Degree Online?

This degree typically takes four years to complete. You may be able to get it done in as few as three years, if you enroll in an accelerated program. Students who are enrolled part time can expect things to take a bit longer

Required Course Credits*

120 credits

Average Length of Time*

4 years

*Varies depending on your school/program

How Much Money Will You Make With a Human Resources Degree?

Professionals with bachelor's degrees in HR earn an average base salary of $66,000 a year, according to Payscale. This is slightly higher than the average salary for all U.S. employees — which was $58,260 a year in 2021, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

But with a few years' experience and the right specialization, you can make well above the average. In fact, the BLS reports that the top 10% of human resources specialists earned more than $108,160 in 2021. HR managers can earn even more, with wages up to $208,000.

Human Resources Jobs

An online HR program can prepare you well for a number of jobs. Some programs also offer specific concentrations (like data management, benefits management, or operations management, for example) that make you more competitive for well-paid leadership positions.

5 Popular Human Resources Jobs
Job Annual Salary Career Outlook
HR Specialist $62,290 (median, 2021) 8%
HR Manager $126,230 (median, 2021) 7%
HR Administrator $51,000 (average, 2022) N/A
Training and Development Specialist $61,570 (median, 2021) 8%
Benefits Manager $80,000 (average, 2022) N/A

Read More: How to Grow as an HR Leader: 5 Tips from Real Professionals

Read More: Human Resources Careers

Frequently Asked Questions About a Human Resources Degree

What Is the Best Degree for a Career in HR?

A bachelor's degree in human resources is your best option for landing a career in HR, though some people in the field may have degrees in business, business management, communications, or social sciences.

What Can You Do With a Bachelor's in Human Resources?

Graduates with a bachelor's in human resources can pursue careers in business fields related to HR. Many sectors have a growing demand for qualified HR professionals. And a bachelor's degree can also pave the way for a master's or doctoral degree in human resources or a related business field.

With a bachelor's degree, you can specialize in different aspects of human resources. Common specialized positions include:

  • Job analysis specialists
  • Labor relations specialists or managers
  • Training and development specialists or managers
  • Human resources specialists or managers
  • Compensation and benefits specialists or managers

Are Human Resources Majors in Demand?

Increasing demand for human resources professionals drives growth in the field. As more companies emphasize the value of supporting employees throughout the employment lifecycle, the demand for human resources majors grows, too.

Currently, the BLS projects strong growth for human resources careers. The BLS expects the addition of over 58,000 human resources specialist jobs from 2021-2031. And jobs for training and development specialists are projected to grow by 28,900 positions.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Compare Your School Options

View the most relevant schools for your interests and compare them by tuition, programs, acceptance rate, and other factors important to finding your college home.