Online BS in Human Resources

Build practical HR skills in workforce planning, talent acquisition, employee relations and analytics with UMass Global’s online BSHR program.

Build Skills to Lead People and Performance

UMass Global’s online Bachelor of Science in Human Resources prepares you to help organizations attract, develop and retain talent. Build practical skills in workforce planning, talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation and benefits, labor relations, conflict resolution and HR law.

Learn to connect people strategy to organizational goals and use HR technology and analytics to make informed decisions. Whether you are building HR expertise, changing careers or preparing for leadership, you’ll gain skills for today’s evolving workplace.

  • Shape your degree: Choose 12 elective credits from related fields, including business, communications, healthcare, IT, legal studies, leadership and psychology.
  • Plan around your life: Complete fully online, instructor-led coursework designed to fit around work and life.

At a Glance

Online: Instructor-Led
120 Credits
Next Start Date
Fall II (Oct 26, 2026)

Program Benefits that Benefit You.

Expert

Career-Relevant Faculty

Learn from professors who are working professionals and bring current workplace insight into the classroom.

Flexible Start Dates

Choose from six start dates each year and begin when the time is right for you.

Transfer Credit

Transfer up to 90 credits — up to 75% of your degree — and earn your bachelor’s in as few as 10 courses.

Next Session Starts

15Days
12Hours
12Hours
50Minutes
45Seconds
Already Started

Courses You Might Take

HRCU 350

Compensation and Benefits

3 Credits
HRCU 406

Legal Issues in Human Resources

3 Credits
HRCU 352

Labor Relations

3 Credits
HRCU 430

Conflict Resolution

3 Credits
OLCU 425

Leadership in Diverse and Multicultural Organizations

3 Credits
HRCU 351

Workforce Planning and Employment

3 Credits

What Our Students Say

Request Information Today

Get details about your UMass Global program and how it can fit into your busy life.

When you request information, an enrollment coach will:

  • Review your chosen program and answer questions.
  • Discuss start dates and next steps based on your goals and schedule.
WSCUC - WASC Senior College and University Commission

Get More Information

I'm active-duty military or spouse

By submitting this form, I consent to receive calls, texts, emails and advertising from UMass Global and/or Kaplan North America, LLC using the contact information provided, including mobile numbers and email addresses, which may be sent with automated or pre-recorded technology. Message & data rates may apply. Consent is not required to attend and I may opt-out at any time.

Admission Requirements

Applicants for this program must complete the formal application process and submit required documents. Documents required vary based on the number of transferable credits and include:

12 OR MORE TRANSFERABLE CREDITS

  • A minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA
  • Provide official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended

0 – 11 TRANSFERABLE CREDITS

  • High school diploma or GED equivalent
  • Official high school transcript indicating the date of graduation
  • Provide official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended

Students with fewer than 12 credits or below a 2.0 GPA will take LBSU 100 (Student Success Strategies) during their first session to build a solid foundation for college success.

We support our
Military Veterans!

  •  Yellow Ribbon School
  •  Recognized Military Friendly School
  •  Founded to Serve Military Personnel

Check out our Military and Veterans pages and discover how we can support you in your educational journey.

Learn How

Calculate Time and Cost

Ways to Get Started

Our Faculty

Evelina Atanassova, PhD
Associate Professor of Business Administration, Human Resources and Leadership
Evelina Atanassova PhD

Frequently Asked Questions

With a people-first focus, a human resources degree can land you roles across people operations, analytics, compliance, and strategy. Courses have a strong focus on communication, problem-solving, and organization, but also cover general business skills like accounting, finance, and marketing. Here are common jobs a BS in Human Resources can prepare you for:

  • Human Resources Generalist: Handles a wide range of HR functions, including recruitment, employee relations, and benefits, and could include duties related to administration and operational support.
  • Recruiter/Talent Acquisition Specialist: Focuses on sourcing candidates, onboarding new hires, and managing applicant tracking systems.
  • Benefits and Compensation Specialist and Vendor Liaison: Manages employee benefits programs and compensation and serves as the primary contact for employees' compensation and benefits questions, issues, and clarifications.
  • Training and Development Specialist: Designs and implements practical job-related learning experiences that elevate individual and team performance across the organization.

A bachelor’s in human resources centers on developing core strengths in communication, organization, and people management. This includes:

  • Core HR – the basics of a human resources degree include people-first strategies, talent acquisition and development, compensation and benefits, and compliance.
  • Business fundamentals – As key partners in the business, HR professionals are integral to organizational success, contributing to business planning, payroll, benefits, and people management.
  • Ethics and Workplace Integrity – the human resources function is instrumental in ensuring the organization is upholding ethical standards and protecting the rights and dignity of its employees.

HR is critical for all businesses, regardless of their size. It provides the building blocks for success by maintaining culture, business communications, staffing efficiencies, and ensuring the organization is following regulatory requirements for a positive work environment.

Depending on the size of the company, an HR professional might be involved in one or several of the following activities:

  1. Recruiting, hiring, and retaining talent
  2. Employee engagement
  3. Performance management
  4. Compensation and benefits
  5. Development and training
  6. Risk management
  7. Audits and legal compliance

Want More Information About Human Resources?

Explore human resource pathways and learn about degree options that fit your future.