Skip Navigation
Global Site Menu
 
Dr. Wallace E. Boston School of Business

Human Resource Management

Online Bachelor of Arts in Human Resource Management (BA)

Apply Now Request Info
Program Requirements Related Programs Admission Requirements Paying for School

Save @ APU

$0 Application Fee
$0 Transfer Credit Evaluation
$0 Textbooks & Ebooks

0Entrance Exams

About This Human Resource Management Bachelor's Degree Program

Explore strategies to motivate, compensate, recruit, evaluate, and develop an organization’s most important asset—its people—with a bachelor’s in human resource management from American Public University (APU).

This online Bachelor of Arts in Human Resource Management will familiarize you with the laws, rules, regulations, and issues influencing human resource management, talent development, and employee recruitment and retention. APU’s BA in HR Management program also incorporates case studies to provide you with real-world context as you examine the human resource department’s function within an organization.

This program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.

What You Will Do in This Bachelor's Degree Program

  1. Examine laws, rules, regulations, and policies affecting human capital in today’s global workforce 
  2. Evaluate the effectiveness of various compensation packages and employee incentive programs in enhancing recruitment, retention, and overall job satisfaction. 
  3. Describe leading trends and issues in the HR field 
  4. Explain the role an HR department plays in helping organizations define their strategies

View Program Outcome Assessment Results

Degree at a Glance

Accredited
ACBSP Accredited

ACBSP® is a registered trademark of the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.

Number of Credits
120
Transfer up to 90 credits1
Cost Per Credit
$360 | $250*
$324**
*with Preferred Military Rate
**with Veteran Grant or APUS Opportunity Grant
Courses Start Monthly
Online
and vary from 8 to 16 weeks

  • Want to Learn More?

    Interested in a specific program or wondering about the application process? Fill out the quick form below, and we’ll follow up with details tailored to your goals. Click here if you are a current student and need assistance.











    Ready to apply? Start your application today.

    We value your privacy.

    By submitting this form, you agree to receive information via electronic means, including email and text messages, phone calls and voice messages about upcoming courses, recruitment events, newsletters, and other resources from American Public University System, Inc., which includes American Military University (AMU) and American Public University (APU), American Public Education, Inc., and any third party marketing companies engaged for the purposes of promoting American Public University System’s brands. This consent is not a condition of enrollment or purchase.

    If you opted in to text messaging by checking the box above, you agree to receive informational text messages about upcoming courses, recruitment events, newsletters, and other resources from American Public University System, Inc. Msg and Data Rates may apply. Message frequency varies. Text HELP for help. Text STOP to stop.

    "Military Spouse" and "Military Dependent" applies to the spouses and dependents of active-duty servicemembers, National Guard members and Reservists. If you are an extended family member of a currently serving military member or veteran, please select "Military Extended Family" or "Veteran Family Member" respectively. Extended family is defined as parents, legal partners or siblings. Military affiliation is subject to validation at the university's discretion.

    You may withdraw your consent at any time. Please refer to our privacy policy, terms, or contact us for more details.

Program Requirements Printable Catalog Version

Students must choose a concentration for this degree program:

The employment law concentration allows for deeper discovery of employee compensation and benefits. Students will also learn about dispute resolution, negotiation, employment law, and labor relations.

Objectives:

Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:

  • Identify government regulations for compensation and benefits.
  • Contrast mediation to adversarial dispute resolution models like arbitration and trial.
  • Discuss several significant ethical issues involved in negotiation.
  • Assess the impact of employment law/human relations in organizations.
  • Examine sources of power considered during negotiation.

Must take all courses for this section.

Course ID: 5092

|
This course provides a comprehensive overview of negotiation and distributive bargaining. It expands on the strategies of negotiation such as value claiming, value creation, mutual adjustments, ethics, and conflict management. Students will develop knowledge and skills and apply the characteristics of negotiation and distributive bargaining techniques to build relationships, establish agreements, and solve problems in real-world scenarios.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session

Course ID: 5093

|
This course provides a specialized focus on negotiation. It expands on the techniques of perception, cognition, emotion, communication, power, relationships, teams, and cross-cultural concepts, principles, and theories in negotiation. Students will develop knowledge and skills and apply best practices in negotiation to build relationships, establish agreements, and solve problems in real-world scenarios. (Prerequisite; HRMT300)
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session

Course ID: 2968

|
This course focuses on the principles, practices, and processes of dispute and conflict resolution. The course draws on interdisciplinary materials from social science, decision theory, management/labor relations, law, and others. Course curriculum incorporates a review of non-binding dispute resolution strategies such as negotiation and mediation, binding strategies including arbitration, and psychological challenges to overcoming conflict such as cognitive perception biases.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session

Course ID: 2971

|
This course establishes a foundation for the art of compensation and benefit practices. Students will examine the context of compensation and benefit practices, the criteria used to compensate employees, compensation system design issues, employee benefits, and contemporary challenges that compensation and benefits professionals will face given the current economic times.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session

Course ID: 2972

|
This course will explore the historical evolution and current state of employment relations theory. Workplace democracy, the source of workplace conflict, alienation, the evolution of class, collective bargaining, and other issues are discussed from a variety of perspectives. Students will become familiar with terminology and practices such as employee-employer relationships in non-unionized and unionized settings; problems and theories of union organizing, collective bargaining, and contract administration
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session

The general concentration delves into behavior in organizations, training and development, compensation, performance management, and technology to support the human resource management function. Students will compare compensation packages and reward systems and differentiate between various performance management methods.

Objectives:

Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:

  • Explain the concept of total rewards in relation to employee compensation and benefits.
  • Describe how human resource development is linked to the overall goals and strategies of an organization.
  • Develop an understanding of basic systems and the criteria for success in using HR software in organizations.
  • Compare and contrast successful and unsuccessful performance management systems.
  • Prepare a strategy to motivate a group of employees with varying backgrounds and perspectives.

Must take all courses for this section.

Course ID: 2971

|
This course establishes a foundation for the art of compensation and benefit practices. Students will examine the context of compensation and benefit practices, the criteria used to compensate employees, compensation system design issues, employee benefits, and contemporary challenges that compensation and benefits professionals will face given the current economic times.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session

Course ID: 2973

|
This course provides a basic overview of various automated information systems that are available to support today's human resource departments. Students will have the opportunity to explore online, offline, and hybrid HR software applications as well as other automated processes. Additional topics include HR analytics, systems security, individual privacy, legal implications and streamlined interview process.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session

Course ID: 2974

|
Training and development is no longer an option for organizations – continuous learning has become an essential requirement for those companies that wish to sustain market share and compete successfully in the marketplace. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the training and development function and is applicable to all organizations and jobs. Training methods, theories, research findings, and issues regarding training, employee development, and the career management function in organizations will be explored.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session

Course ID: 4447

|
This course examines how to measure and develop individual and group performance. Students will have the opportunity to design performance management systems in an effort to align employee performance with an organization’s strategic objectives. There will be an exploration of methods, theories and issues regarding workforce expectations and performance.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session

Course ID: 2934

|
Successful organizations strive to hire the best talent and seek innovative strategies on how to retain them. Leaders attempt to create an environment that is appealing by soliciting feedback on what motivates them to stay. This course examines the field of organizational behavior and the various research strategies in areas such as personality, motivation, values, stress, leadership skills, power bases, and communication. It is designed to explore the attitudes and behavior of leaders and employees. The course examines decision-making and risk management techniques incorporating accounting and financial concepts.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session

Select 1 course(s) from the following:

Course ID: 3725

|
Microeconomics is an overview course that covers how households (consumers), firms (producers), and governments interact in competitive and other markets to set prices, and determine what and how much is produced. Key concepts introduced include the role of scarcity and choice, incentives and competition, and the law of supply and demand.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session

Course ID: 3726

|
Introduction to Macroeconomics is a survey course that builds on the topics covered and skills developed in ECON101 (Microeconomics) in order to present a complete picture of the economy. Macroeconomics shows how consumers and markets fit into the overall or aggregated economy and provides a framework to assess government policies. Key topics covered will include economic cycles (growth and recession), economic indicators and measures, and interest rates and money supply.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session

Must take the following in this Section:

Course ID: 5037

|
Information and Digital Literacy is designed to provide students with sustainable and usable skills essential to success in both academic and professional settings. Students will learn best practices to locate and evaluate sources, and effectively communicate using digital literacy to become proficient 21st century learners.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 4951

|
Martin Luther King, Jr, said, “If you can’t fly, then run. If you can’t run, then walk. If you can’t walk, then crawl. But whatever you do, you have to KEEP MOVING.” Making Writing Relevant is a composition course that will definitely keep you moving. It is not merely a required course; it is the type of course you will want to take because it moves you onto the path to success. Over eight-weeks, we will help you learn the most important components of a successful writer-communicator. We will teach you how to research properly, knowing you will need this skill in every course you take here at APUS and also in interactions in your professional and personal life. We will teach you the formatting style you will use in your field. We will provide a supportive community to strengthen and encourage you, and by the end of this nearly-all-you-need-to-know-about-writing course, you will be able to fly.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Must take the following in this Section:

Course ID: 4894

|
This is an introductory statistics course designed to help students achieve a basic understanding of the statistical methods available to analyze and solve the wide variety of problems encountered in the workplace. This course is designed for students who seek an understanding of descriptive and inferential statistical methods. The emphasis of the course will be on the proper use and interpretation of statistical techniques. MATH120 is the recommended mathematics general education course for students who will be required to take additional statistics courses such as MATH302 Statistics as part of their program of study.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Must take all courses for this section.

Course ID: 4120

|
This introductory course focuses on the concepts and methods of managing human capital in an organization. Students will have the opportunity to explore human resource fundamentals by discussing practices in the selection, training, job analysis, evaluation, wage setting, incentive principles, merit rating, job efficiency, and labor/employee relations of human resources as applied to various types of organizations.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session

Course ID: 2892

|
In the emerging global economy, only those organizations dedicated to continuous learning are expected to grow and thrive. This course is an examination of individual and organizational strategies designed to stimulate creative approaches to learning in organizations. Students will have the opportunity to outline individual development plans from an organizational and personal perspective. Theoretical foundations and practical issues involved in employee training and development in business organizations are explored.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session

Course ID: 2922

|
In today's workforce, being qualified is not enough. Most applicants are qualified, but they may not be the right fit for the culture. Interviewing has become a crucial process in organizations, and the outcome can determine the next path for many people. Therefore, it is important to spend time preparing for the actual interview meeting. This course will provide a comprehensive study on skill sets that interviewees should display to be the chosen candidate. Topics include communication and interpersonal skills, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, time and project management techniques, and managing change with a positive attitude and self-confidence. Emphasis will be placed on clear concise written and spoken communication regarding business correspondence and oral presentations.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session

Course ID: 2967

|
This course provides an overview of concepts, skills, theories and techniques involving human resource management(i.e. recruitment and selection, training and development, performance appraisals, reward systems, and benefit programs). Students will have the opportunity to review scenarios involving innovative HR practices in the workplace.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session

Course ID: 2977

|
Hiring a new employee can be costly, and the cost becomes greater with the selection of an individual who is not a good fit. Therefore, the talent management and development functions spend quality time developing strategic plans to address the organization's recruitment, selection, and retention initiatives. This course examines external and internal staffing processes and practices needed for a successful search. Students will explore the various techniques/methods for determining whether individuals possess the knowledge, skills and abilities required by the organization.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session

Course ID: 2978

|
This course explores the importance of human resource management in the context of the global marketplace, including topics on culture, compensation and benefits, managing expatriates, global labor markets, managing diverse teams, and the legal and regulatory considerations that global organizations face. This course will help you identify differences in operating domestically versus globally, and adapt human resource practices successfully in foreign markets.

Course ID: 3287

|
With all of the cases regarding corruption, scandals and unethical behavior in businesses, how does one do the right thing? This course explores the moral and ethical responsibilities of managers and their direct reports. Topics of discussion include organizational justice, human resource practices (i.e. employee selection, salary administration, employee relations), and corporate/social responsibility.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session

Course ID: 3289

|
Effective communication is necessary at all levels of an organization, and executives are concerned that employees lack this skill set. The focus of this course is the exploration of theories and techniques utilized in achieving efficient external and internal communication processes and practices within and among businesses. These processes and practices include communication around operations, legal, marketing, budgets, costs, and earnings. Students will be encouraged to apply their analytical, creative, and critical thinking skills in developing and presenting potential solutions to managerial problems.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
Select any courses that have not been used to fulfill major requirements. Credits applied toward a minor or certificate in an unrelated field may be used to fulfill elective credit for the major.

Must take all courses for this section.

Course ID: 4938

|
This capstone course is the final class in the management and human resource management programs for the B.A. in management. This course prepares students to reflect on their academic experience by compiling and revising work from previous courses into an organized e-portfolio. The e-portfolio will reflect the student’s educational growth from the initial entry to the final stage of the bachelor’s program. In addition, students will develop the skills necessary to successfully transition to and navigate post-graduate life, and they will understand the civic and social responsibilities of being educated citizens. Finally, students will be given the resources to connect with APUS in an ongoing relationship.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session

 

Prepare for Professional Certifications

APU is a Proud Partner of the Society for Human Resource Management

The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM®) has advocated for the continued advancement of the human resources profession since 1948. A fundamental part of their work has been establishing the core competencies that have become industry standards. SHRM creates valuable tools, such as the HR Curriculum Guidebook, to help educators teach skills accordingly.

The HR Curriculum Guidebook specifies HR capabilities students should master at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Students who complete our program will be well-versed in these topics, as APU’s bachelor’s in human resource management is closely aligned with SHRM’s current curriculum guidelines. Furthermore, eligible students may apply to take the SHRM Certified Professional® exam in their final year of this bachelor’s degree program. 

American Public University is also home to our own SHRM student chapter. Members regularly congregate for webinars covering the latest issues in the human resources industry. The chapter also connects members to networking and professional development opportunities. Learn more about student organizations at APU.

SHRM® and SHRM Certified Professional® are registered trademarks of Society for Human Resource Management.

Coursework Also Aligns with the HR Certification Institute’s Requirements

The HR Certification Institute (HRCI®) is another credentialing body that offers certifications suited to those in the human resources field. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Although certification is voluntary, it shows professional expertise and credibility, and it may enhance job opportunities.”

APU’s HR management curriculum satisfies educational requirements for two certifications the HRCI offers: Associate Professional in Human Resources® (aPHR®) and Professional in Human Resources® (PHR®)*. Graduates may choose to pursue either credential upon completion of this degree program.

*Eligibility requirements for PHR certifications include professional human resources experience.

Associate Professional in Human Resources®, aPHR®, Professional in Human Resources®, PHR®, and HRCI® are registered trademarks of Human Resource Certification Institute, Inc.

human resources professional

Human Resource Management is Evolving

Human resources is a multifaceted field that encompasses much more than “hiring and firing,” especially in a post-COVID world. Some companies now have fully remote staffs. As a result, human resources teams must account for employees in various states or even different countries.

Other companies have instated return-to-office mandates that pose their own unique challenges, particularly when employees must relocate. HR departments are instrumental in overseeing the successful execution of these policies.

Additionally, businesses turn to HR professionals to navigate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. DEI is becoming integral to the HR field. In fact, studies show that DEI-focused efforts attract more talent, effectively increasing opportunities for corporate innovation. According to the American Marketing Association, companies that properly facilitate DEI initiatives also improve their employee turnover rates.

HR responsibilities continue expanding and evolving to accommodate the modern workforce. APU’s online Bachelor of Arts in Human Resource Management is therefore designed to help students understand the current duties of HR professionals.  

DEI is Redefining Organizational Success

Our human resource management program emphasizes the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion within the workplace. Students learn how to establish and uphold policies that welcome workers of all backgrounds. Faculty also provide guidance on the ways in which HR professionals can advocate for meaningful change. In fact, APU’s podcast, “The Everyday Scholar,” features faculty members and guests who help shed light on key leadership and management issues. 

In this episode, Human Resource Management Department Chair Cynthia Gentile, J.D. interviews Uva Christina Coles, the founder and CEO of Inclusiva, a consulting firm specializing in workplace inclusion. Hear them discuss the connection between leadership education and effective DEI policies. 

Learn From Human Resources Professionals

Assistant Professor Leslie Weatherly brings more than 30 years of experience in human resource management to our program. She shares firsthand knowledge of the ever-evolving HR field with APU’s business students. 

 “What we’re seeing come into play now are both the effects of a post-COVID workforce and one that is slowly starting to be managed by younger generations. More and more, we’re seeing people say, ‘I’m just not willing to work myself to death,’ versus some baby boomers who carried the weight of the world on their shoulders before admitting to burnout. This change has affected management styles and plays a huge role in shifting the culture of the workplace. We can have as many as five generations with differing values working within the same organization.  

It’s the job of Human Resources to be able to see the gaps between them and mediate them. To ask the tough questions of, ‘How do we get these groups to communicate well?’ It takes very strategic communication, and you have to be an outstanding negotiator.” 

— Leslie Weatherly, SPHR, Assistant Professor, Business 

Degree Concentrations Provide a Deeper Understanding of HR Management Principles

APU’s online human resource management degree program is designed to equip business students with practical knowledge and skills. Learners choose from two concentration tracks to focus their studies on core human resource functions.

Employment Law

From employee compensation packages to workplace safety, government regulations heavily influence labor relations. The degree concentration in employment law examines how an HR professional helps an organization maintain compliance with federal and state guidelines. Coursework in this track also covers dispute resolution. Students discuss the importance of negotiation skills for maintaining harmony throughout an organization’s workforce.

General

Human resource specialists help businesses attract top talent, measure workforce performance, and manage employee relations. The general concentration track allows students to choose from courses that explore the nuances of these key HR duties.

 

Why Choose This Online HR Degree Program?

Since the coronavirus pandemic, the number of students enrolled in online courses has increased. In fact, approximately 54% of U.S. students enrolled in online courses, even after pandemic restrictions were lifted.

Online education programs generally provide more flexibility than classes that require in-person attendance. APU’s online courses have no set login times, and students complete assignments each week as they progress through this degree program.

male studenton computer

An Online Program Can Be More Affordable than Attending a Brick-and-Mortar University

APU offers online students an enriching learning experience, without the high costs traditionally associated with universities. For instance, online classes eliminate the need for room and board fees, as well as the cost of commuting to campus. Textbook fees are also covered through APU’s book grant, which is available to all undergraduate students. 

In addition, eligible students may qualify for university-funded grants to help cover the cost of tuition. APU also became a proud partner of Stride, Inc. in early 2024. Through this partnership, eligible students may qualify for a 10% tuition grant. Request information to learn more.

NOTE: Tuition grants cannot be combined with other special University rates, promotions, or grants. Only one tuition grant can be applied per course registration.

Learn From Anywhere When You Pursue Your Bachelor’s Degree Online at APU

Classes in this human resource degree program take place entirely online. You can complete your studies from any place with a stable internet connection. 

Although this online HR degree program does not require face-to-face instruction, you will still have the opportunity to connect with your peers. Courses incorporate weekly discussion forums, through which you will converse with other students and instructors. Faculty members include successful HR professionals who share insights into this field based on their own professional experiences.

 

Create a Course Schedule That Fits into Your Life

As an online institution, American Public University makes it possible to complete this bachelor’s degree program while balancing other commitments. Whether you work full-time or have family obligations, courses are designed with flexibility in mind. There are no set login times, and students may access course materials 24/7 to meet weekly deadlines for assignments.

APU’s online human resource degree program also connects learners to the University’s dedicated faculty. Students may reach out to instructors and academic advisors via email any time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Human resources is a vast field that requires specialized business knowledge. Some learners interested in HR may choose to pursue bachelor’s degrees in business administration. An online human resources management degree is a good fit if you are interested in learning about hiring, managing, and motivating employees.
The HR management major focuses on specialized content that cover important topics like:

  • Employee and labor relations
  • Career coaching
  • Talent acquisition
  • Human resource information systems
  • Employee reward systems
  • Performance management

Students who complete an HR management degree program may also be eligible to sit for HRCI or SHRM certification exams.

A degree in human resource management could be a practical choice for someone interested in learning about the HR field. Human resources degree programs offer more in-depth analyses of labor relations and organizational behavior than other types of business degrees. 

In addition, HR management major courses typically explore a range of subjects specific to the role of an HR professional, such as: 

  • Human Resource planning
  • Employee compensation 
  • Employee benefits and rewards programs
  • Professional development 
  • Legal compliance
  • Employee engagement 
  • Performance management
  • Talent acquisition
  • Workforce planning

If your interests align with these subject areas, you may wish to consider pursuing a degree in human resource management.

The key differences between a Bachelor of Arts (BA) and a Bachelor of Science (BS) lie within the subject matter and focus of study. A Bachelor of Arts tends to center on humanities and social sciences, as well as more abstract or theoretical topics that require critical thinking. A Bachelor of Science, on the other hand, focuses more on math and science and will tend to include a more technical approach to course material. 

For example, a BS in human resources management will likely focus on companies’ recruitment processes, résumé selection tools, and other statistics-driven functions. Conversely, a BA in the same discipline is more likely to focus on the professional strengths and interpersonal skills necessary for engaging an organization’s workforce.  

If you consider yourself a "people person" and are interested in learning about how to support a productive work environment, then pursuing a Human Resource Management Bachelor of Arts could be a practical choice. 

At its core, the human resources field focuses on maintaining functional relationships between organizations and employees. If you are a natural leader, you may find HR management courses especially interesting.

A good HR manager holds a high level of emotional intelligence and is tactful, using ethical leadership skills to navigate sensitive situations within the workplace. Successful human resource managers also possess strong communication skills. 

An HR professional must be able to engage all departments within an organization. Moreover, working in HR requires a natural humility and diplomacy, as professionals in this field negotiate on behalf of their organizations. Learn more about the roles of human resource managers and the skills they employ.

Courses Start Monthly

Next Courses Start Jul 6
Register by Jul 3
Apply Now Request Info

Admission Requirements

  • All APU undergraduate programs require a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent (i.e., GED). Please read all undergraduate admission requirements before applying to this program and be prepared to submit the required documentation.
  • There is no fee to complete the APU admission application for this program. View steps to apply.

Need Help?

Selecting the right program to meet your educational goals is a key step in ensuring a successful outcome. If you are unsure of which program to choose, or need more information, please contact an APU admissions representative at 877-755-2787 or [email protected].

Quality Education Should Be Affordable

So you can focus on the opportunities ahead, without the financial burden of more expensive schools who are not as invested in your success. Learn more about paying for school.

Consumer Information

Disclosures

Maryland Residents learn more about costs, completion rates, median debt, and more.

 

1The University reserves the right to accept or deny credits according to policies outlined on our University website. Please see the University's transfer credit policy webpage for complete information.

*Cost Per Credit Hour

The Preferred Military Rate is $250 per credit hour for undergraduate and master's-level courses. This rate is available to all U.S. active-duty servicemembers, National Guard members, Reservists, and military families, including parents, spouses, legal partners, siblings, and dependents.

See all military student benefits.

Cost of Attendance

Learn more about American Public University's cost components and full cost of attendance.