Find schools that offer these popular programs
- Human Resources Development
- Labor and Industrial Relations
- Labor Studies
- Organizational Behavior
Essential Information
While some human resources certificate programs are offered exclusively at the graduate level, others are available through extension programs and at two-year colleges throughout Orange County. Coursework covers training, management, hiring, and organizational issues for individuals interested in or already working in the field. Some programs offer the option of online courses for some of the required curriculum.
The following are more detailed profiles of each of the Orange County schools that offer certificate programs in human resources, as well as a comparative table that gives institutions' tuition costs and locations.
Brandman University
Irvine's Brandman University offers two 15-credit graduate certificates in human resources through its Business Division at the School of Extended Education. The human resources management certificate is ideal for individuals working in human resources without education in the field, though people seeking to enter the industry without prior experience can also benefit from the program. The curriculum includes courses in human resources systems, compensation, benefits and training; students also take one elective course from the master's degree program. A certificate program in human resources development also is available, with classes in training and development, legal issues, career management, organizational development and other areas.
California State University, Fullerton
California State University's Fullerton campus offers a human resources management certificate through its Division of Administration and Finance. The curriculum is geared toward individuals overseeing human resources services and is made up of ten required and three optional workshop modules covering employee compensation, recruiting and hiring, staff motivation, dealing with problematic situations and other areas. Students also can enroll in individual courses without taking the entire certificate program.
Saddleback College
Saddleback College in Mission Viejo is a 2-year school that offers undergraduate programs in over 190 areas. This college offers a 9-credit program leading to a Human Resources Management Occupational Skills Award. The curriculum provides an overview of human resources to help students seek entry-level positions. Courses touch on employment law, business and human relations.
University of California, Irvine
Located in Irvine, UC Irvine Extension offers an array of business and management programs, including a course of study leading to a certificate in human resources management. This program is geared toward individuals working in the field or those who wish to make a career change. To obtain the certificate, students must take six required courses covering organization, law, training and compensation. Students also take two elective courses, choosing from topics in business writing, management, ethics and communication. The program is delivered via a combination of online and classroom instruction.
University of Redlands
The University of Redlands is a 4-year school with nine campuses, including a Santa Ana location. An 18-unit certificate program in human resources management is available through the continuing studies program at the Santa Ana campus. Students learn about recruiting and hiring, employee compensation and benefits, employee performance analysis, legal aspects of human resources and current issues in the field. Students must also take elective courses and can choose from topics in risk management, training and ethics.
School Comparison: At a Glance
| School Name | School Type & Setting | Human Resources Certificate Programs Offered | Tuition & Fees (2015-2016) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brandman University | 4-year, private not-for-profit; midsize city | Graduate Certificates in Human Resources Management and Human Resources Development | $11,220 (graduate)* |
| California State University, Fullerton | 4-year, public; large suburb | Human Resources Management Certificate | $1,654 (cost for all courses in program)* |
| Saddleback College | 2-year, public; large suburb | Human Resources Management Occupational Skills Award | $1,326 in-state; $5,750 out-of-state (undergraduate)* |
| University of California, Irvine | 4-year, public; midsize city | Certificate in Human Resources Management | $13,252 in-state; $37,960 out-of-state (undergraduate)* |
| University of Redlands | 4-year, private not-for profit; small city | Certificate in Human Resources Management | $44,900 (undergraduate)* |
Source: *NCES College Navigator
