Human resources (HR) programs offer students a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices that underlie the effective management of people in organizations. From recruitment and selection to training and development, compensation and benefits, employee relations, and more, HR programs cover a wide range of topics that are essential for any organization that wants to attract, retain, and engage talent.
If you are considering pursuing a career in HR or already working in the field and looking to advance your knowledge and skills, you may be wondering what career prospects are available to you. In this article, we will explore some of the most promising career paths for graduates of HR programs, including the skills and competencies required, the salary range, and the job outlook.
Human Resources Manager
Human resources managers oversee the recruitment, selection, training, and development of employees in an organization. They also handle employee relations, compensation and benefits, and compliance with labor laws and regulations. To become a human resources manager, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in HR or a related field, along with several years of experience in the field. Many HR managers also have a master’s degree in HR, business administration, or a related field.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for human resources managers in the United States was $121,220 as of May 2020. The job outlook for HR managers is also positive, with a projected growth rate of 6% from 2019 to 2029.
Talent Acquisition Specialist
Talent acquisition specialists, also known as recruiters, are responsible for finding and hiring top talent for an organization. They use a variety of techniques, such as job postings, social media, and networking, to identify and attract candidates who fit the organization’s culture and job requirements. To become a talent acquisition specialist, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in HR or a related field, along with experience in recruitment or sales.
According to Glassdoor, the average base salary for a talent acquisition specialist in the United States is $65,000 per year. The job outlook for recruiters is also positive, with a projected growth rate of 7% from 2019 to 2029.
Compensation and Benefits Manager
Compensation and benefits managers are responsible for designing and implementing compensation and benefits programs that attract, retain, and motivate employees. They analyze market trends, conduct surveys, and consult with senior leaders to develop strategies for salary structures, bonuses, health insurance, retirement plans, and other employee benefits. To become a compensation and benefits manager, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in HR, finance, or a related field, along with several years of experience in compensation and benefits.
According to the BLS, the median annual salary for compensation and benefits managers in the United States was $125,130 as of May 2020. The job outlook for this field is also positive, with a projected growth rate of 3% from 2019 to 2029.
Human Resources Consultant
Human resources consultants provide expert advice and support to organizations on a range of HR issues, such as talent management, performance management, employee engagement, and compliance with labor laws and regulations. They may work independently or as part of a consulting firm and may specialize in a particular area of HR or work with a variety of clients across industries. To become a human resources consultant, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in HR, business administration, or a related field, along with several years of experience in HR.
According to PayScale, the average salary for a human resources consultant in the United States is $73,000 per year. The job outlook for this field is also positive, with a projected growth rate of 8% from 2019 to 2029.