Thinking about starting a career in Human Resources?
You’ve made a smart choice. HR is a field that’s always in demand. It’s also changing fast. The right course can give you a big head start.
But with so many options out there, how do you pick the best one?
Don’t worry!
We’ve already researched and reviewed a wide range of HR courses to select only the best HR courses for beginners.
Whether you want to learn the basics or get certified, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s dive in and find the perfect HR course to begin your career.
How To Choose A Good HR Course As A Beginner?
Before we jump into our list, let’s talk about what makes a good HR course. Here’s what to look for:
- Curriculum relevance – The course should cover the latest HR trends and practices. Look for topics like talent management, employee relations, and HR analytics.
- Certification value – Some courses offer certificates. These can boost your resume. Check if the certificate is recognized in your industry.
- Course duration and flexibility – Are you working full-time? Look for courses that fit your schedule. Some are self-paced, others have set timelines.
- Cost and return on investment – HR courses can range from free to thousands of dollars. Think about what you’re getting for your money.
- Instructor expertise – Who’s teaching the course? Look for instructors with real-world HR experience.
Our Selection Process
In our process of selecting the best beginner HR courses, we used a careful selection process and here’s how we scored each course:
| Criteria: | Weight: |
| Content Quality | 30% |
| Industry Recognition | 25% |
| Practical Application | 20% |
| Course Flexibility | 15% |
| Value for Money | 10% |
We looked at the course content, how well it’s recognized in the industry, and how you can apply what you learn. We also considered how flexible the course is and if it’s worth the money.
Now, let’s get to the good stuff. Here are our top picks for HR courses in 2024.
The Best HR Courses For Beginners In 2024
1. AIHR Courses
Our Score: 4.9/5 (Excellent)
Pricing: Course preview available, individual certification programs costs $542/year, and full academy access to 13 certification costs to about $997/year
Special Bonus: As our hrtech reader, you get a 20% discount on all AIHR courses. Learn more about this special offer on AIHR certification programs.
Course Curriculum:
- Covers HR analytics and data-driven HR.
- Focuses on digital HR and HR tech.
- Includes modules on talent management and employee experience.
- Offers helpful templates and resources.
- Provides access to a community of HR professionals.
Why We Picked It?
AIHR (Academy to Innovate HR) is at the top of our list for good reason. They are one of the most popular HR training providers with 45,000 HR professionals using their platform. Their courses focus on the tech side of HR, which is huge right now.
What really stands out is their wide range of offerings. Their HR analytics course is particularly popular among HR professionals. And from HR generalist to Strategic Talent Acquisition, their certification program covers all important areas.
Pros:
- Detailed curriculum.
- Flexible online learning.
- Access to a network of HR pros.
- Regular updates to keep content fresh.
Cons:
- Might be overwhelming for complete beginners.
- Higher price point compared to some other options.
- Heavy focus on tech might not suit everyone.
Certification and Credentials: AIHR offers its own certification, which is gaining recognition in the HR tech world. But what’s noteworthy is that AIHR is recognized by SHRM and HRCI.
While it’s not as established as being certified directly from SHRM or HRCI yet, it’s still worth it because AIHR is an accredited HR training provider.
Once you complete theirAIHR training programs, you’ll get credits for SHRM, HRCI, and CHRP. These professional development Credits (PDCs) help in recertification of the program (for example SHRM) you’ve enrolled.
The SHRM recertification process is required every 3 years, and you get these credits by either taking online courses from SHRM certified providers or attending seminars. So that’s the biggest advantage of taking AIHR courses as you also get credits.
Best For: This course is perfect for tech-savvy beginners who want to be on the get ahead in the HR field.
If you’re into data and love the idea of using AI in HR, this is your thing! However, if you’re more interested in traditional HR roles, you might want to start with something like the HRCI Human Resource Associate course.
2. HRCI Human Resource Associate
Our Score: 4.8/5 (Excellent)
Pricing: 7-day free trial. Paid plans cost $49-$100/month
Course Curriculum:
- Talent Acquisition
- Learning Development
- Compensation And Benefits
- Employee Relations
- Compliance And Risk Management
Why We Picked It?
The HRCI Human Resource Associate certification offered by HRCI and available on the Coursera platform is a great course for beginners. It covers all the basics you need to know to start your HR career as an HR associate.
What we like about this course is its broad scope. You’re not just learning about one aspect of HR, but you’re getting a complete overview of everything from hiring to compliance and risk management.
Pros:
- Comprehensive coverage of HR basics.
- Highly recognized certification.
- Affordable compared to other certifications.
- No experience required to take the course or attend the exam.
Cons:
- Requires 5 months commitment to complete the course.
- Limited focus on emerging HR technologies.
- Recertification required every 3 years.
Certification and Credentials: This is a globally recognized certification from HRCI, one of the popular brands in HR credentialing. It’s a great way to show employers you’re serious about HR.
Best For: This course is ideal for complete beginners who want a solid foundation in HR. If you’re switching careers or just starting out, this is a great place to begin.
However, if you’re looking for more advanced topics or specialization, you might want to check out courses like AIHR, SHRM, or the University of Michigan’s Leading Diverse Teams and Organizations.
3. Human Resource Management By University Of Minnesota
Our Score: 4.7/5 (Very Good)
Pricing: 7-day free trial. Paid plans cost $49-$100/month
Course Curriculum:
- Explores HR’s role in organizations.
- Covers recruitment and selection strategies.
- Teaches performance management techniques.
- Introduces compensation and benefits concepts.
- Discusses HR policies and best practices.
Why We Picked It?
This HRM course from the University of Minnesota is like getting a feel of college-level HR education without the student loans. It’s part of Coursera’s platform, which means you’re getting university-quality content at a fraction of the cost.
What really impressed us about this course is its academic approach. You’re not just learning how to do HR tasks, you’re understanding why they are done.
Plus, you also get the opportunity to apply all the concepts you learn (the fifth module in the course curriculum is just geared towards specializing on resolving real workplace challenges of the learner).
Pros:
- University-level content.
- Free to audit.
- Comprehensive coverage of HRM basics.
- Flexible learning schedule.
Cons:
- Certificate costs extra.
- Maybe too theoretical for some learners.
- With 10 hours a week, requires 2 months of dedicated learning.
Certification and Credentials: While not a professional certification, you can earn a certificate of completion from the University of Minnesota. It’s a nice addition to your profile or resume. And although no prior experience is required, at least 2 years of college experience is preferred.
Best For: This course is great for beginners who want a more academic understanding of HR. However, if you want to learn more on the technical side of things in HR, then AIHR courses are the best fit.
4. Leading Diverse Teams And Organizations By University Of Michigan
Our Score: 4.6/5 (Very Good)
Pricing: 7-day free trial. Paid plans cost $49-$100/month
Course Curriculum:
- Explores diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
- Teaches strategies for building inclusive teams.
- Covers unconscious bias and how to address it.
- Discusses leadership in diverse organizations.
- Introduces concepts of cultural intelligence.
Why We Picked It?
Diversity and Inclusion is an important topic for every HR professional.
This course from the University of Michigan available on Coursera is the perfect pick to understand how to lead diverse teams and ensure diversity and inclusion best practices in the organization.
What sets this course apart is its focus on practical leadership skills in diverse settings. Along with knowing the rules, the HR course helps you learn how to create a better workplace where everyone feels valued and respected.
Pros:
- Highly relevant in today’s workplace.
- Short course that can be completed in just 3 weeks (with 7 hours dedicated learning per week).
- Taught by leading experts in diversity and inclusion.
- Resolves a critical skill gap in many organizations.
Cons:
- Narrower focus than general HR courses.
- Limited coverage of other HR functions.
- Certificate costs extra.
Certification and Credentials: You can earn a certificate of completion from the University of Michigan. While not a professional HR certification, it shows your commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Best For: This course is perfect for HR beginners who want to specialize in diversity and inclusion. It’s also great for anyone looking to lead teams in a diverse workplace.
However, if you’re more interested in general HR practices, you might want to start with a course like HRCI’s Human Resource Associate. But remember, understanding diversity is crucial for any HR role.
5. Employee Relations By HRCI
Our Score: 4.5/5 (Very Good)
Pricing: 7-day free trial. Paid plans cost $49-$100/month
Course Curriculum:
- Covers fundamentals of employee relations.
- Teaches conflict resolution techniques.
- Explores employee engagement strategies.
- Discusses performance management.
- Teaches strategic planning basics.
Why We Picked It?
Employee relations is one of the crucial parts of HR. It’s all about keeping the workplace running smoothly and keeping employees happy.
This Employee Relations course from HRCI and available on Coursera teaches you all the skills to do just that.
What we like about this course is its practical approach. You’re not just learning theoretical concepts. You’re getting real strategies you can use on day one of your HR job.
Pros:
- Focused on a critical HR function.
- Taught by experienced HR professionals.
- Includes case studies and real-world examples.
- Counts towards HRCI recertification credits.
Cons:
- Narrower focus than general HR courses.
- Maybe too advanced for complete beginners.
- Limited coverage of other HR functions.
Certification and Credentials: Once you enroll and complete the course, you’ll get certificated by HRCI.
Best For: This course is ideal for HR beginners who want to specialize in employee relations. It’s also great for new managers who want to improve their people skills.
If you’re looking for a more general introduction to HR, you might want to start with the HRCI Human Resource Associate course or the Human Resource Management Course by University of Minnesota.
6. SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP)
Our Score: 4.8/5 (Excellent)
Pricing: Exam fee: $300-$510 (depending on member status)
Course Curriculum:
- Covers all aspects of HR management.
- Includes strategic HR planning.
- Teaches talent acquisition and retention.
- Explores employee engagement and relations.
- Discusses HR compliance and risk management.
Why We Picked It?
SHRM-CP certification is the industry standard in the HR field. Their Certified Professional course is comprehensive, respected, and can open many new pathways in your HR career.
If you really want to take your career to the next level, this certification program is the right way to get started.
Pros:
- Highly recognized certification.
- Comprehensive coverage of HR topics.
- Focuses on both knowledge and competencies.
- Access to SHRM resources and network.
Cons:
- More expensive than some other options.
- Can be challenging for complete beginners.
- Significant time commitment required.
Certification and Credentials: The SHRM-CP is one of the most recognized HR certifications globally.
Best For: This course is ideal for those who are serious about a career in HR and have some experience (or a degree) in the field.
It’s a big commitment, but it can really boost your career. If you’re just starting out, you might want to begin with a course like the Administrative HR for Beginners or the HRCI Human Resource Associate.
But if you’re ready to grow fast in your HR career, SHRM-CP is the way to go.
7. Oxford Home Study Center HR Courses
Our Score: 4.5/5 (Very Good)
Pricing: Free to enroll
Course Curriculum:
- Offers a range of HR courses at different levels.
- Covers topics like HR management.
- Includes courses on recruitment and selection.
- Explores employee motivation and performance management.
- Discusses HR strategy and organizational behavior.
Why We Picked It?
Oxford Home Study Center is our top pick as the best free HR courses for beginners. For certification, you do have to pay a small fee and complete the relevant courses. But enrolling is totally free.
They offer everything from beginner to advanced levels, so you can pick exactly what you need.
What we like about these courses is their flexibility. You can start with the basics and work your way up as you grow in your HR career.
Pros:
- Wide range of courses to choose from.
- Flexible learning options.
- Affordable compared to university programs.
- Self-paced learning.
Cons:
- Less recognized than some popular certifications.
- Quality can vary between courses.
- Lacks the depth of more specialized courses.
Certification and Credentials: Oxford Home Study Center offers its own certificates. While not as widely recognized as SHRM or HRCI certs, they’re still a nice addition to your resume.
Best For: These courses are great for beginners who want to explore different areas of HR before committing to a specific path.
They’re also good for those who need flexibility in their learning schedule.
If you’re looking for a more structured program or a widely recognized certification, you might prefer something like the HRCI Human Resource Associate or SHRM-CP.
But for a more general HR learning, Oxford Home Study Center is worth considering.
8. Online Human Resource Professional Training Course By BMCC
Our Score: 4.4/5 (Good)
Pricing: $1945
Course Curriculum:
- Covers HR basics and best practices.
- Teaches recruitment and interviewing techniques.
- Explores employee training and development.
- Discusses compensation and benefits.
- Introduces HR laws and regulations.
Why We Picked It?
BMCC (Borough of Manhattan Community College) is one of the best academic-style self-paced HR training program
What stands out about this online HR training course from BMCC is its focus on real-world application.
You’re not just memorizing HR theories with this course. But instead, you learn how to apply them in actual workplace situations.
For instance, the course teaches you how to make a job offer, writing job ads, how to prepare for an interview, how to create compensation packages, and a whole lot more.
Pros:
- Comprehensive coverage of HR functions.
- Application-focused learning.
- Taught by experienced HR professionals.
- Includes case studies and real-world examples.
Cons:
- Expensive than other HR courses.
- Takes up to 9 months of commitment to fully complete the course.
- Not as widely recognized as some certifications.
Certification and Credentials: You’ll receive a certificate of completion from BMCC. While not a professional HR certification, it’s a solid credential from a respected institution.
Best For: This course is ideal for those who want a comprehensive introduction to HR with a practical focus. It’s great for career changers or those looking to get professional HR training from experts.
If you’re looking for a more specialized focus or a globally recognized certification, you might prefer courses like SHRM-CP. But for a great foundation in HR, BMCC’s course is a strong option.
9. FutureLearn HR Training Courses
Our Score: 4.6/5 (Very Good)
Pricing: Limited free access available. $39.99/month for unlimited access and certificates
Course Curriculum:
- Offers a variety of HR-related courses.
- Covers topics like people management and organizational culture.
- Includes courses on diversity and inclusion.
- Explores digital HR and HR analytics.
- Discusses leadership and change management.
Why We Picked It?
FutureLearn is like online learning platforms such as Coursera.
They partner with universities and organizations worldwide to offer a wide range of HR courses.
What we particularly like about FutureLearn’s courses is the variety and quality of their courses.
You can dip your toes into different aspects of HR and learn from experts around the world. And the best part? These courses are average length courses that can be completed in 2-4 weeks.
Pros:
- Wide range of courses to choose from.
- Learn from global experts and institutions.
- Flexible learning options.
- Affordable monthly subscription model.
Cons:
- Quality can vary between courses.
- Less structured than a single comprehensive program.
- May require multiple courses to cover all HR basics.
Certification and Credentials: FutureLearn offers certificates of achievement for completed courses. While not professional HR certifications, they’re a great way to showcase your continuous learning.
Best For: FutureLearn is perfect for HR beginners who want to explore different aspects of HR before committing to a specific path.
It’s also great for HR professionals looking to stay updated on specific topics. If you’re looking for a single, comprehensive HR certification, you might prefer something like HRCI’s Human Resource Associate.
But for a flexible learning experience, FutureLearn’s courses are worth considering.
Benefits of Taking HR Courses as a Beginner
Now that we’ve looked at the top courses, let’s talk about why taking HR courses is a smart move for beginners.
- Career Opportunities And Growth – HR is a growing field. According to studies, your salary can increase by 31.6% once you get HR certification.
- Skill Development – HR isn’t just about onboarding and offboarding. It’s about understanding people, managing conflicts, and shaping company culture. These are skills that can help you in any career.
- Legal Knowledge – HR professionals need to know employment laws. This knowledge can keep you and your company out of hot water. It’s like having a legal superpower in the workplace.
- Tech Savvy – Modern HR uses a lot of tech. From applicant tracking systems to HR analytics tools, these courses can help you stay ahead of the curve.
- Networking – Many HR courses connect you with other HR professionals. This network can be really valuable as you start your career.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do You Need A Degree To Work In HR?
Not necessarily. While many HR positions prefer a bachelor’s degree, certifications and experience can often substitute. Many successful HR pros start in entry-level positions and work their way up.
How Long Does It Take To Complete An HR Course?
It varies. Some crash courses can be completed in a few hours. Others, like SHRM-CP preparation, can take several months. Most online courses are self-paced, so you can fit them around your schedule.
Are Online HR Courses As Good As In-Person Ones?
Online courses have come a long way. Many offer interactive elements, real-world case studies, and even virtual networking opportunities. The key is to choose a reputable provider and stay committed to your learning.
Is It Possible To Switch To HR From Another Career?
Absolutely! HR values diverse perspectives. Skills from other fields, like communication, problem-solving, and data analysis, are highly transferable to HR roles. Taking HR courses can help you bridge the knowledge gap.
Which HR Certification Is The Best For Beginners?
For complete beginners, the HRCI Human Resource Associate or the AIHR courses are great starting points. If you have some HR experience or education, the SHRM-CP is widely recognized and respected.
Final Thoughts
Starting a career in HR is an exciting journey. It’s a field that’s always evolving, always challenging, and always important. The right course can give you the knowledge, skills, and confidence to succeed.
Remember, the best course for you depends on your goals, budget, and learning style. So don’t worry about starting small and working your way up. Even a short course can teach you valuable HR skills.
Need more help in choosing the right HR course to advance in your HR career faster? Get customized help from our experienced HR experts. Contact us now to learn more.
