An affordable online human resources degree provides a flexible way to start or advance your HR career, covering key topics like talent management, employee relations, and employment law. These online bachelor's programs align with industry trends to develop essential workforce management skills. Many also include internships or capstone projects.
Key Takeaways:
- National University is the #1 cheapest online HR degree, with yearly tuition at $4,162.
- Waldorf University has the best median salary ($68,524) for graduates of its online HR management bachelor's program.
- Trine University Online stands out with an impressive student-to-faculty ratio of 8:1.
Our research highlights the most affordable online degrees, verified through meticulous manual tuition checks. All listed schools are institutionally accredited, providing fully online programs with transparent pricing. Please refer to our full methodology for more details.
2025 Most Affordable Online Human Resources Degrees
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Online Human Resources Bachelor's Degrees You May Be Interested In
Overview of Online Human Resources Degrees
An online bachelor's program in human resources (HR) is designed to prepare you to manage the people employed in virtually any type of large organization. In addition to several general courses on business, organizational behavior, and psychology, you'll also study specific subjects within HR. These include employee relations and employment law.
Many of the courses in a human resources bachelor's degree program include hands-on projects that give you an authentic sense of what it's like to work in an HR department. Often based on real-world case studies, these assignments teach you how to recruit and hire employees, develop HR policies, design compensation systems, create training programs, and address ethical issues in human resources management.
As you earn your online human resources degree, you can expect to acquire valuable technical abilities and soft skills. For example, proficiency in human resources information systems (HRIS) and data analysis will help you evaluate and improve the effectiveness of human resources policies and initiatives. Similarly, soft skills like conflict resolution, negotiation, and effective interviewing are essential for excelling in your career.
Online programs often lead to a Bachelor of Science (BS), Bachelor of Art (BA), or a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA). All three types of programs equip you for a range of HR roles. However, a BA program is more likely to focus on managing people and developing talent, while a BS program will probably emphasize finance, data analysis, and project management. Finally, a BBA degree focuses on developing your professional career skills. It gives you an opportunity to take business administration courses, which can help set you up for a future MBA in Human Resources.
Common Courses
Like all bachelor's degree programs, an undergraduate program in HR mixes general education courses with major-related core courses and electives. Through your choice of electives, you can focus on the aspect of HR that you find most interesting.
Here are some examples of core courses often included in an on-campus or online degree in human resources:
Human Resources Management
This foundational course equips students with the knowledge of HR practices, including recruitment, selection, training, and compensation. They also learn about employment laws, labor relations, and how to manage a diverse workforce.
Organizational Behavior
Students learn about the dynamics of organizational structure, culture, and behavior. Topics may include leadership styles, team dynamics, and change management, which are pivotal in maintaining a harmonious workplace.
Compensation and Benefits
This course delves into theories and practices related to employee compensation, including pay structures, benefits packages, and legal requirements. Students will learn how to develop competitive compensation packages that attract and retain talent.
Labor and Employment Law
Students gain comprehensive knowledge of the laws and regulations governing employer-employee relationships. They learn about labor rights, collective bargaining, and the legal consequences of unfair labor practices.
Training and Development
This course emphasizes the importance of training programs in enhancing employee performance. Students learn to design, implement, and assess training initiatives that align with organizational goals.
Strategic Human Resources Planning
This course teaches students how to align human resources strategy with an organization's strategic plan. They learn to forecast talent needs and develop plans for workforce development and succession.
Interested in other economical online degrees in HR? Review our lists of the most affordable associate degrees in human resources and the most affordable master's degrees in human resources.
Funding an Online Human Resources Degree
Earning a human resources bachelor's degree online can be an economical alternative to pursuing a degree through a traditional, on-campus program. Nevertheless, a college education is a big investment that requires some savvy decision-making. Fortunately, you may have a variety of sources for funding, including savings, earned income, grants, scholarships, and student loans.
You may also be able to minimize your college expenses and save money in college by taking some of these steps:
Opt for an online degree program, which may save you money in several ways. Many colleges — such as the most affordable human resources degrees listed above — charge lower tuition rates for online learners or in-state tuition rates for all online students, even those living out of state. Also, as an online student, you won't have to pay for on-campus room and board or travel to and from school.
Choose a public university rather than a private one. The most recent data from the National Center for Education Statistics () higher education survey show that the average tuition and fees at public schools were approximately one-fourth of what they were at private schools — $9,596 as opposed to $34,041. You could save thousands just by enrolling in a state-run school.
Take the bulk of your preliminary courses at an affordable community college. During the first two years of your bachelor's program, you'll take about 60 credit hours of lower-division courses in basic subjects like sociology and chemistry. You can save thousands in tuition by completing these credits at a community college, which the NCES says charges an average annual tuition rate of $3,564. After one or two years, you can transfer to a four-year university where you'll finish your bachelor's degree requirements.
Live someplace that's affordable. One of the biggest advantages of attending college online is that you can live wherever you want. At least while you're in school, you could reduce your living expenses by moving to the most economical place you can find.
Get a part-time or full-time job. Working while you go to school has both advantages and drawbacks. However, earning income that you can funnel toward college costs may allow you to graduate with less student loan debt.
Financial Aid
Another way to save on your online degree in human resources is to receive financial aid. Funding may be available from the federal and state government, colleges, and private organizations. Most types of aid are awarded based on financial need, but some are dependent on other criteria, such as academic performance, the major you've chosen, or your family heritage.
If you're enrolled in an accredited online degree program, you can apply for financial aid by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). After your request has been evaluated, you'll receive a Student Aid Report (SAR) that lets you know if you've met the criteria for receiving aid. Finally, the school you attend — or the schools where you've applied — will mail out financial aid offers to you.
If you've demonstrated financial need, your financial aid package is likely to contain federal grants and school-sponsored scholarships. Thankfully, these do not have to be repaid.
If you haven't met the criteria to receive enough grant or scholarship aid, you may be offered a student loan. You may need to take out a loan to earn your degree, but remember that the interest on federal and private student loans adds up quickly. Before you accept a student loan offer, use our student loan repayment calculator to figure out the full cost of borrowing money.
Human Resources Scholarships
Some donors offer scholarships that are especially for HR students. For example, the is for women in both bachelor's and master's HR programs. Eligible applicants can pursue a $5,000 award. Up to 37 students per year can receive this scholarship.
What Can You Do With an Online Human Resources Degree?
Once you've graduated with an online human resources bachelor's degree, you'll be equipped to explore a range of careers in HR. Human resources is a broad field that plays a crucial role in various sectors, including corporate businesses, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and educational institutions.
As a new graduate, you'll probably start off in an entry-level position as a human resources specialist. Your day-to-day responsibilities may include employee relations, recruitment and training, or compensation and benefits. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that specialists earn a median annual salary of . Demand for HR professionals is expected to grow by 8% through 2031.
With time and experience, you may advance to higher-paying positions that require leadership skills. For example, in a large organization, you may become a compensation and benefits manager or a training and development manager. Per the BLS, people in these occupations earn a median annual salary of . You may also become a human resources manager in an organization, overseeing all aspects of the HR function. HR managers earn a median annual salary of .
Although the BLS notes that these advanced positions do not require further education, you may want to consider pursuing a master's degree in human resources or an MBA with a focus on human resources. The advanced knowledge and skills you'll acquire could open the door to senior-level positions and higher salaries.
Thinking about an advanced online degree in HR? Discover the possibilities with our list of the best master's programs in human resources.
Is a Bachelor's in Human Resources Worth It?
From a purely financial perspective, earning a bachelor's degree in HR is likely to yield a high return on your investment. Early in your career, you may be able to earn about . As you gain experience, you'll be eligible for management positions with salaries topping , and even more than $224,360 if you are among the top 10% of earners in this field.
In addition to the financial rewards, an HR degree may prove to be worth it by serving as a foundation for a fulfilling and stable career. You'll have opportunities to contribute to your organization's growth and success while helping individuals thrive in the workplace.
Only you can definitively answer this question because your goals, responsibilities, and finances differ from everyone else's. The choice is ultimately yours, but the following pros and cons may help guide your decision.
Potential Benefits
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Most HR careers are growing at a steady rate. According to the , each career field for the specialists identified above will likely expand by 5-6% by the end of 2032, which is above the average growth rate for all U.S. jobs holding at 3%.
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Studying online may provide extra flexibility to help you balance your responsibilities. Online learning lets you work at your own pace as long as you respect assignment due dates. It also makes it possible to enroll in an appealing program anywhere in the country without uprooting your life.
Potential Drawbacks
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A degree in HR may limit your career opportunities unnecessarily. You can potentially work in HR after earning a bachelor's in business or a broader liberal arts discipline, such as communications or psychology. If you're not completely sure that HR is the right career path, you might consider enrolling in one of these fields instead to give you a wider range of options.
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It may be more difficult to network while studying online. Distance learning tends to limit informal interactions among colleagues and professors, so it's more difficult to make contacts who can help in your future career. You can partially mitigate this drawback by taking advantage of your program's internship and networking opportunities.
FAQs About Online Human Resources Degrees
What Are the Admission Requirements for Human Resources Degrees?
Admission requirements for human resources bachelor's programs vary by school. However, they typically include a high school diploma or GED and transcripts from previously attended institutions. You may also be asked for letters of recommendation, a personal essay, and standardized test scores, such as the SAT or ACT.
How Do I Choose a Bachelor's in Human Resources?
When you're deciding which online bachelor's program in human resources is right for you, you'll want to take several factors into account. Some of these factors — online format, curriculum, faculty, and online support services — need to be evaluated according to your personal priorities.
One factor that's critical, however, is accreditation. Not only does institutional accreditation ensure quality education, but it is also required to receive financial aid and may be required if you plan to enroll in a master's program. You may also want to look for programs that align with the learning outcomes prescribed by the Society of Human Resources Management ().
Student Reviews of Online Human Resources Programs
My overall experience so far has been awesome. From the administration to the professors I have learned and grown so much. Everyone is kind understanding and very helpful. In my courses I have a clear view of information and what it consist of which makes learning easier.
Review Date: 7/30/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I absolutely loved my college experience online. The professors and success coach was right there with me every step of the way. I graduated with a 3.99, and it takes dedication and motivation to do this, but it is well worth it! I am actually going back to get another bachelor’s degree!
Review Date: 5/30/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Purdue has been amazing for me over the last 5 years. Starting with my associates degree and now obtaining my bachelor's degree. My career specialist Katherine Hood is wonderful to work with, I can always count on her helping me with all my career needs. Also, my student advisor is wonderful and has also always helped with everything that I need.
Review Date: 4/13/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Trident University is pretty good school the professors are great the Financial aid department suck and student success advisor don't care admission department worry so much about coming to Trident University and tuition is too much $1540 per class and if you don't watch the financial aid department they will get you in so much debt and please stay away from this school and financial department worry about taking out so many students loans.
Review Date: 2/17/2018
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I wish I knew where to start with this school and their processes. The spam contact saying that I owned money was annoying. I finally had to send them notice to stop trying to collect a debt under the Fair Credit Reporting Act as I literally owed them nothing. I am self-pay from family savings and am not using financial aid nor have I filed a FAFSA so the emails that they have received my FAFSA results were also alarming. Inability to complete online courses in computer fundamentals because their... Read More
Review Date: 2/12/2019
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
UMGC (formally UMUC) was great and for the most part quite easy to maneuver. I'm not completely sure what all of these negative reviews are in regards to. I'll make this short and sweet... UMGC is what you make o fit. If you have an issue, reach out to the school, be persistent, take accountability and get your degree(s).
Review Date: 12/15/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I attended SNHU's COCE division for one year before deciding to pursue the remainder of my degree program through a different university. Unfortunately, SNHU's online program and model has some serious flaws which requires attention. I'm going to provide my honest opinion, and share both my positive and negatives of this institution's online degree program. Positives -My Admissions Counselor was great. Kudos to her for walking me through SNHU's admissions and class registration for my first term.... Read More
Review Date: 1/12/2018
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I cannot say enough about how positive this experience was. I just finished my B.S. in Business and Human Resources Management. I did this in 13 months and 11 days-chiefly because I was very determined to achieve this goal. You will be asked to agree to goals, timelines with slightly adjustable dates and be held to these commitments. Several comments I read state they don’t like talking to their mentor on a weekly basis, but they want you to succeed and stay on the ‘on time progress’ that is required.... Read More
Review Date: 10/16/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I recently completed the BS Business-HR Management Program and I really enjoyed my experience at WGU. I will admit, WGU is completely different and requires a high level of motivation. I didnt find the courses to be challenging (but Ive always considered school to be easy; even when I attended a traditional state college) but they definitely required a tremendous amount of work. I wrote 140 pages worth of papers in the last nine courses I completed. If you are willing to take control of your learning... Read More
Review Date: 2/18/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
This school is completely different than some other online schools in that all your tests are proctored. They can see your computer screen and your desk. That means that to pass any class it is all your own knowledge. I definitely feel like the other schools give online schools a bad rep, but I had studied hard for each and every class and it was just as hard for me as the brick and mortars I attended. The positive for this was I could attend classes in the comfort of my home, and take my tests.... Read More
Review Date: 8/5/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
This might not be the best choice for younger students. You have to have self-discipline, drive, and dedication. I personally LOVE IT! I can work, take care of my family, volunteer for Special Olympics, and be proud of my accomplishments. Taking a final at 4:00 am is not unusual. Go Owls!
Review Date: 7/26/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I am very independent and asking for help is not in my nature, helping others is. After a very false start I found myself ignorning calls from a mentor who seemed to be more interested in moving on to the next call. (It was terrible!) I made the choice to change programs and was assigned to a mentor who understood my drive. I graduated! HOWEVER, the closest venue for me to walk across the stage and have the experience of receiving my EARNED degree is 9 hours away. Huge letdown. For me, WGU offered... Read More
Review Date: 3/15/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I love Indiana State University and highly recommend ISU to anyone looking to further their education. The curriculum has been challenging and the faculty is extremely professional and helpful. I completed a large portion of the degree online and the ability to watch lectures and complete the same course work of in class students has been a blessing!
Review Date: 3/18/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Capella University was a tremendous opportunity and experience for me. The learning system was very appropriate and it gave me the chance to manage my timeline accurately where every tools where just available for my advantage. I will recommend to check it there.
Review Date: 2/22/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The work was challenging and the mentor helpful with encouragement and direction. The folks that give WGU bad reviews fail to point out that several industry certifications are either recognized for credit or required for graduation. I trust industry recognized achievement milestone over some disgruntled student that probably never graduated. The support resources amply if you took the time to locate them. My salary increased 11k within 3 months of graduation as my skills and experience had a degree... Read More
Review Date: 2/17/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
CSU is an awesome school. I have received my B.S. in H.R. Management, and I am now working on my Master's. This school is great, staff is very helpful and understanding, and there is always someone to take my call. The professors are great, with the exception of some who tend to not be very sympathetic towards the working adult. The graduation ceremony was so nice and organized, in the heart of Orange Beach, Al. I cant wait to go back for my next ceremony, which will be 2019.
Review Date: 2/13/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I felt compelled to write a review on behalf of Ashford University as a student and not an employee. All the negativity I have read is far from the opposite to my experience. My student advisor may have changed a few times, but who cares--as long as I have one. Secondly, people complaint of cost; well, one should be smart enough in this day an age to do a little research on school tuitions before enrolling like I did. I loved the rep that helped me enroll in school, if it were not for him; I would... Read More
Review Date: 5/27/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Great school!!!! I loved the flexibility and how the professors continuously challenged me with the curriculum . Everyone from the student advisor Stephanie who stayed with me throughout my entire degree to each professor had the highest level of professionalism and was prompt with responding back. I have been in the military for over 20 years and this was a great way to have flexibility and earn my degree. I can't say enough great things about my experience with TUI and how this has help make me... Read More
Review Date: 7/27/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I had issues accessing the online college a few times. All my teachers were great & understood when I had an issue getting online. My biggest complaint was receiving too many phone calls & emails from the college. I received 5 emails the same day from 5 different people at Ashford telling me to register for classes. I told them I felt like they were harassing me, & I only needed to hear from 1 person - only. They called me non-stop to the point to where I blocked the main college number from calling... Read More
Review Date: 5/24/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Overall, I will have to say that my experience at UMUC has been great. There have been a couple of snags with the financial aid offices, but any problems have been laid out and resolved very quickly. When it comes to financial aid, always be sure that you keep track of it, if anything changes with your GPA or status it can change drastically. The most impressive part of my experience thus far has been the quality of material and instruction. The courses are very interactive and require a lot of your... Read More
Review Date: 4/24/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No