Human Resource Management
- Associate Degree
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Human resources is a profession for people who enjoy helping others. It offers a fulfilling career where you'll engage with diverse groups of people across various settings, including businesses, non-profits, and governmental organizations. Skilled HR professionals are essential for all types of organizations, as they handle crucial employee affairs, making a significant impact on both the organization's success and the well-being of its workforce.
Western's associate degree program covers seven key areas of HR, including safety, employment law, training, employee relations, compensation and benefits, staffing, and HR data and analytics.
With this degree, you will be well-prepared for a career as an HR professional. Your role may involve recruiting and selecting employees, implementing compensation systems, developing employment policies, designing training programs, promoting workplace safety, ensuring compliance with employment laws, managing employee relations, and measuring employee engagement.
Check out this video [1] to hear from a Human Resource Management instructor about how Western's program allows you to learn on your terms.
Human Resource Management 2021, 2022, & 2023 Graduation Employment Stats
| Graduates | 27 |
| Graduates Responding | 13 |
| Employed in Related Occupation | 9 |
| Employed in Non-related Occupations | 1 |
| Seeking Employment | 0 |
| Continuing Education | 3 |
| Not in Labor Market | 3 |
Salary Data - Related Employment
| Part Time | Full Time | |
|---|---|---|
| Responding | 0 | 5 |
| Average Hours Per Week | 42 | |
| Average Hourly Wage | $22.02 | |
| Hourly Wage Range | $18.64-$24.93 | |
| Average Annual Salary | $55,747 |
Respondents in Related Occupations
- Employment Coordinator, Contact Center Coordinator 1, Benefits Assistant, HR Manager, HR Generalist
Career Opportunities
Program Outcomes
- Create an organizational workforce plan
- Develop training programs
- Examine organizational total rewards programs
- Incorporate employment law into business practices
- Facilitate effective employee relations
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College Requirements
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Software and Technology
Most of Western’s classes require the use of a personal computer or laptop, standard software, internet access, and other technology-related items.
If you do not have a personal computer or laptop, or if the one you have does not meet the following criteria, resources may be available. Submit a Student Resource Request using our online form [2].
Computer/Laptop Hardware
- Smartphones are not recommended for completing assignments.
- Chromebooks are not recommended due to issues with installing software that is needed for classes, such as Office 365.
- Web camera with microphone (usually built into newer laptops or can be purchased separately) is necessary for online participation.
Software Needs
- Western uses the Blackboard Learning Management System. Some courses may use Zoom or Microsoft Teams to meet and work virtually. Visit our website for guidance on how to access and use these tools [3].
- Office 365 (available to download for free once you have a student email)
- Recommended web browsers: Chrome or Firefox
For detailed specifications, please review Technology and Software Recommendations for Most Classes [4] on Western’s IT Knowledgebase.
Campus Resources
- Western has several computer labs available. Visit our website to find open hours and locations on the La Crosse campus [5]. Or find information on how to access resources on our Regional Locations web page [6].
- The Learning Commons has computers, webcams, and microphones available for in-house use. Our librarians recommend checking your local public library for computer access on the weekends. Staff members can also provide information on free, off-campus Wi-Fi spots. Contact them at LearningCommons@westerntc.edu [7] or call 608-785-9198.
Need Assistance?
- Contact the Learning Commons [8]! The staff are happy to answer questions, provide individualized assistance, and direct you to other supports as needed.
Courses
Western offers most courses in a 7-week format, but course length can vary. There are two 7-week sessions in each term, so courses listed below may not be taken at the same time. See www.westerntc.edu/7-weeks [9] for more information.
This course list gives you an idea of what coursework will be required but is not the official list. Current students should use the MyWestern [10] self-service portal for academic planning.