Certificate in Human Resource Management
Hours: 12 On-Campus Online
About
The Certificate in Human Resource Management at Fort Hays State University equips students with the essential skills and knowledge necessary to effectively manage an organization’s most valuable asset: its people. Focusing on key HR functions, including recruitment, compensation, and employee training, this certificate equips students for a wide range of roles in the human resources field. Its curriculum blends comprehensive instruction with practical application, allowing students to apply what they learn directly in workplace settings.
This 12-credit-hour certificate offers a flexible yet academically rigorous experience. Students gain an understanding of the strategic and day-to-day operational aspects of human resource management, strengthening their ability to make meaningful contributions within their organizations. The certificate is ideal for professionals seeking to advance their careers or expand their expertise in human resources.
Why pursue a Certificate in Human Resource Management at Fort Hays State University?
The Certificate in Human Resource Management stands out for its comprehensive curriculum and practical learning focus. Students also have an opportunity to join the SHRM student organization, where they can build valuable professional networks and strengthen their career development.
Coursework incorporates current events and real-world case studies, allowing students to apply HR concepts to relevant, practical situations. Faculty members, who are active researchers in the field, further enrich the experience by integrating insights from the latest trends and emerging practices in human resource management.
Who is this program for?
Whether students aim to complement their major, advance their careers, or establish professional connections through the SHRM student group, this certificate offers valuable growth opportunities. It is ideal for:
- Individuals seeking to enhance their HR skills
- Professionals looking to advance in HR roles
- Students aiming to complement their major with HR expertise
- Those interested in joining the SHRM student group for professional development
- Anyone wanting to gain practical HR management experience
Real-World Applications
The certificate prepares students to address real-world workforce challenges by building practical skills in strategic HR planning, job analysis, and employee relations. The Human Resource Management course emphasizes the processes and strategies essential for attracting, selecting, and retaining top talent, competencies that are critical to organizational success.
Additionally, the certificate’s strong emphasis on practical application exposes students to real-world scenarios and case studies. This approach ensures that students understand key HR concepts and can also apply them effectively in professional settings, making them valuable contributors to their organizations.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Fort Hays State University designed the curriculum to keep students at the forefront of the evolving HR field. The Total Compensation and Training and Development courses cover the latest trends and innovations in pay systems and employee growth strategies. Students also gain exposure to advanced HR technologies and methodologies, preparing them to implement modern HR practices effectively within their organizations.
Hands-on Activities
The Certificate in Human Resource Management includes hands-on activities that allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts, such as simulating recruitment processes, designing compensation plans, and developing training programs.
Students are also encouraged to join the SHRM student chapter, which has been recognized with the Outstanding Student Chapter Award, placing it among the top 12 chapters worldwide. Participation in SHRM offers valuable professional development, networking opportunities, and practical HR experience, further enhancing students’ learning and career prospects.
What You’ll Learn:
- Strategic HR planning principles
- Recruitment and selection techniques
- Compensation system design
- Training and development strategies
- Employee relations management
How You’ll Learn:
- Engaging with real-world case studies
- Participating in hands-on simulations
- Collaborating on group projects
- Learning from experienced faculty
- Networking through the SHRM student group
The certificate comprises four core courses, each designed to provide students with a strong foundation in essential HR functions. Covering areas such as strategic HR management, recruitment, compensation, and training, the curriculum ensures students develop practical skills and knowledge that can be applied in real-world settings.
MGT 611: Human Resource Management
This course covers management theory and practice in personnel, with a focus on recruitment, selection, testing, and development. It examines laws, training methods, and organizational constraints. Graduate students will complete all requirements and prepare additional materials to integrate relevant information.
MGT 612: Recruitment, Selection, and Retention
This course covers essential human resource management practices in staffing, including models, labor market analysis, employment law, job analysis, recruitment, selection, testing, and evaluation. Graduate students will fulfill course requirements and create supplementary materials that incorporate recent developments in the field.
MGT 614: Training and Development
This course examines training and development in various business settings, focusing on learning theory, instructional methods, needs assessment, and evaluating the effectiveness of training programs. Graduate students will complete course requirements and write a paper on a current topic in their field of training.
Discover the full Certificate in Human Resource Management course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
The Certificate in Human Resource Management provides professionals with the essential knowledge and practical skills needed to advance their careers in HR and related fields. For students pursuing or holding degrees in business, management, or similar disciplines, the certificate strengthens their qualifications and expands their expertise. Participants gain core competencies in recruitment, compensation, and employee development, making them more competitive for positions that require HR proficiency. Whether aiming to progress in their current roles or pursue new opportunities in HR management, employee relations, or compensation and benefits, this certificate offers significant value to their career growth.
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $2,444.76* (on-campus) or $3,180.60* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 12 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (265.05/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
Students interested in the Certificate in Human Resource Management may also explore related programs offered by Fort Hays State University, including:
- Certificate in Management
- Certificate in Entrepreneurship
- Certificate in Operations Management
- Certificate in Business Law
The Certificate in Human Resource Management complements your current studies by providing specialized HR knowledge and applicable skills in any field. This can enhance your employability and prepare you for leadership roles in human resource management.
While this certificate may not create new career prospects, it will significantly bolster your existing ones by providing you with essential HR skills that are highly valued in any organization.
Students are encouraged to join the SHRM student group, which offers professional development opportunities, networking events, and the chance to travel and meet real HR professionals.
Our Certificate in Human Resource Management aligns with SHRM guidelines, industry standards, and best practices. Additionally, integrating current events and case studies into course design provides a practical learning experience that enhances students' understanding of real-world applications.
Information about the Department of Management
The Department of Management at FHSU offers both on-campus and online programs designed to prepare students to lead teams and manage resources effectively in today’s dynamic business environment. With a strong emphasis on leadership development, the programs equip students with the skills needed to handle daily operational challenges and engage in long-term strategic planning.
The curriculum focuses on critical areas such as decision-making, solution-oriented thinking, and team leadership, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the demands of modern management roles. Each program is tailored to align with students' personal and professional goals, providing the tools necessary to succeed across a wide range of industries.
Through hands-on learning experiences, personalized mentorship, and a comprehensive academic approach, students gain the confidence and capabilities to thrive in competitive business settings. The department’s dedicated faculty and staff are committed to supporting each student’s journey, offering guidance and encouragement every step of the way.
While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.
- Alpha Kappa Psi: Alpha Kappa Psi is a professional co-ed business fraternity dedicated to developing principled business leaders. Founded in 1904 by four students at New York University, the organization has grown into the oldest and largest co-ed business fraternity in the world, with over 298,000 initiated members across 219 universities in four countries.
With a strong network of alumni, Alpha Kappa Psi provides members with valuable professional connections and access to opportunities at some of the world’s most successful companies. The fraternity emphasizes leadership, professionalism, and career readiness, preparing members for lifelong success in the business world.
The Zeta Pi Chapter at FHSU, chartered in 1965, remains an active and engaged part of the campus community. Students interested in joining are encouraged to connect with the chapter’s leadership for more information. - The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM): The SHRM student chapter at FHSU provides valuable resources, industry best practices, and networking opportunities for students interested in human resource management. The organization serves as an excellent platform for those pursuing careers in HR, leadership, management, training, and organizational development.
Through SHRM, students gain exposure to real-world HR practices, connect with professionals in the field, and enhance their academic and career development. Students interested in joining or seeking more information are encouraged to contact Dr. LeAnn Brown, the chapter’s faculty advisor.
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