Have you been involved in personnel decisions like hiring, training, compensating, evaluating, or separating employees?

Consider the human resource management certificate from PennWest University. You’ll gain the knowledge, skills and abilities you need to enter into higher levels of human resource management or manage your workforce in a more professional manner, if you are a business owner or high-level manager in a small to mid-sized organization.

Taught by experienced faculty, this certificate helps you apply important concepts surrounding the study of human resources to today’s diverse work environment. You’ll learn the basics of human resource management and delve into special areas such as global talent management, diversity and inclusion in the workplace, compensation management and more.

In addition to your academic coursework, you can put your knowledge to work during an internship with a local company.

This program is for you if...

  • You are a working adult seeking flexible learning options to enhance your skills in human resources.
  • You aim to apply HR concepts effectively within diverse and dynamic work environments.
  • You are interested in obtaining professional HR certifications like SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP.
  • You seek a foundational understanding of HR practices to potentially move into higher-level roles within the field.
Credits
Credits
  • 18 Credits for Certificate

What You'll Study

The Human Resource Management Certificate program's curriculum includes core courses such as Introduction to Business, Principles of Human Resource Management, and a specialized HRM Capstone. Additionally, elective courses cover topics like Compensation Management, Labor Relations, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Work. This program blends theoretical knowledge with practical applications, preparing students for professional certification and real-world HR challenges.

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Degrees Table
Degrees, Certificates, Minors Offered at...
  California Clarion Edinboro Global Online
Human Resource Management, Certificate Program Offered At This LocationBlended Program Offered At This LocationBlended Program Offered At This LocationBlended Program Offered At This Location
Human Resource Management, Minor Program Offered At This LocationBlended Program Offered At This LocationBlended Program Offered At This LocationBlended Program Offered At This Location

 

Meet Our Faculty

Our faculty are not just instructors; they are mentors, researchers, and industry professionals committed to providing an education grounded in real-world experiences and academic excellence. From engaging classroom discussions to hands-on experiential learning, our educators are here to support and inspire you every step of the way.

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How You'll Learn

This program is offered blended at our California, Clarion and Edinboro campuses. A blended degree combines traditional in-person courses with flexible, online educational experiences. This program is also offered 100% online.

Learn more about how you’ll learn.

    What You'll Become

    Graduates of the Human Resource Management Certificate program are equipped to navigate the complexities of modern HR roles. With a focus on strategic HR management, global talent challenges, and employment regulations, students are prepared to contribute effectively to their organizations’ goals. The program cultivates skills essential for roles that manage organizational culture, employee relations, and compliance with HR laws and standards.

    Career Paths

    • HR Generalist
    • Recruitment Coordinator
    • Compensation and Benefits Analyst
    • Employee Relations Specialist
    • Training and Development Coordinator

    Shujuane Martin ‘01, ‘03

    Martin serves as the leader of the Private Industry Council of Westmoreland/Fayette, Inc. Martin, who earned her degrees in business administration.

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    Shujuane Martin

    How We'll Help You Succeed

    At Pennsylvania Western University (PennWest), we prioritize your success and well-being from the moment you join our community. Our comprehensive student support system is designed to meet you where you are, offering personalized guidance, academic assistance, and emotional support to ensure you can fully focus on your studies and personal growth. Whether you're a first-generation college student, returning for further education, or navigating career changes, our dedicated faculty and staff provide the encouragement and resources you need to overcome challenges and thrive. With a wide range of services from tutoring and career counseling to mental health resources, PennWest stands by your side, empowering you to achieve your academic goals and prepare for a successful future. Join us at PennWest, where you're not just a student; you're part of a supportive family committed to helping you find your place in the world.

    $130,000

    The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says human resource managers are employed in nearly every industry and earned a median annual salary of $130,000.

    Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)

    PennWest’s MBA program is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).

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      We're here for you even after graduation, providing support and resources to help you succeed in your career.

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