People who seek careers in human resource management may start with academic and on-the-job training in pursuit of a specific career objective, or may take on such a role based on experience. Some universities and technical colleges offer human resources courses and certificate or degree programs. Others who want to work in human resources may study subjects relating to business and employee relations. A masters degree is generally helpful when a management role is desired. Although some workers may be hired directly into human resource management, many work up to such supervisory jobs by starting with an entry-level position at a company that allows for internal promotion.
Preparing for a human resource management role often begins in school. As more companies have expanded the positions dealing with personnel, some universities, community colleges, and technical colleges have created degree or certificate programs geared specifically to human resources. Alternatively, majors in business, management, psychology, or communications may be desirable to recruiters. Some businesses offer human resources internships, which usually involve assisting and learning from experienced professionals in the field. Valuable networking opportunities can be gained from these positions, which may open the door to a management position post-graduation.
Some students enter human resources training programs after earning their degrees. While they may start in entry-level positions, such employees may later be promoted to management. Occasionally, graduates move directly from college to human resources, with the opportunity for advancement. In some cases, workers may begin their careers outside human resources, in related areas like customer service or production, and apply for human resources positions as they become available.
Experience in entry and mid-level human resources is usually necessary before an employee can work in human resource management. An applicant with an advanced degree and related experience in business or other supervisory roles, however, may be fast-tracked to management. Additionally, a positive track record and solid recommendations within a company may be reason for internal promotion. Some candidates take college coursework related to human resources, or pursue professional credentials and certifications, to achieve a professional edge as they apply to management roles.
Since some human resources positions involve specific specializations, potential employees can make themselves more competitive by gaining experience in areas like information technology, event planning, and accounting. Courses or background knowledge in employment law and safety regulations may also be desirable. Those hoping to break into human resource management from other fields can look for these types of projects in their current jobs to accumulate the necessary experience.