Human Resource Management
| Degree Type | Program Number | Program Code | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Associate Degree | 101162 | HRSM | 60.00 |
| Typical Start | Learning Format | Financial Aid | Estimated Cost | Location | Area of Interest |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Hybrid | Available | 10607 | La Crosse | Business & Professional Services |
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 to hear from a Human Resource Management instructor about how Western's program allows you to learn on your terms.
Admissions Requirements
- Apply at www.westerntc.edu/how-to-apply
- Western’s Admission Coaches are available to help you through the application process. Have questions or need advice? Call 608-785-9200 or email AdmissionsCoach@westerntc.edu.
- Western must comply with a Waiting List Policy when academic programs meet capacity. This policy adheres to Wisconsin Administrative Code Chapter TCS10.07.
Career Opportunities
Staffing Consultant/Recruiter
Human Resource Generalist/Assistant
Benefits Specialist
Talent Acquisition Specialist
HR Assistant/Payroll Coordinator
Recruiting Coordinator
Program Outcomes
All programs at Western prepare students for success in a free-enterprise society through human experiences that integrate:
- Cultivating passion
- Living responsibly
- Refining professionalism
Graduation Employment Stats - 2023, 2024, & 2025
| Graduates | 22 |
|---|---|
| Graduates Responding | 13 |
| Employed In Related Occupation | 9 |
| Employed In Non-related Occupations | 0 |
| Seeking Employment | 1 |
| Continuing Education | 3 |
| Not In Labor Market | 0 |
| Graduates Responding Employed Part Time in Related Occupation | 0 |
| PT Average Hours per Week | 0 |
| Graduates Responding Employed Full Time in Related Occupation | 8 |
| FT Average Hours per Week | 41 |
| FT Median Hourly Wage | $22.50 |
| FT Hourly Wage Range | $18.64 - $24.93 |
| FT Median Annual Salary | $67,155 |
| Related Occupations | Administrative Services Clerk, Benefits Assistant, Contact Center Coordinator 1, Criminal Records Associate, Employment Coordinator, HR Manager, Human Resource Assistant |
Software & 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.
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.
- 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 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. Or find information on how to access resources on our Regional Locations web page.
- 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 or call 608-785-9198.
Need Assistance?
- Contact the Learning Commons! The staff are happy to answer questions, provide individualized assistance, and direct you to other supports as needed.
Career Pathways
This program is part of a career pathway, a laddered approach to career education. It allows you to earn employer-recognized credentials that lead to job and career advancement.
Prior Learning
Previous education and work experience could qualify for Credit for Prior Learning, saving you time and money. Find out more about what may apply to this program.
Certificates
There are currently no certificates associated with this pathway.
Technical Diplomas
There are currently no technical diplomas associated with this pathway.
Associate Degrees
There are currently no associate degrees associated with this pathway.
University Transfer
Courses
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
| 10102169 - Business Concepts | 2.00 |
| 10116105 - HR Essentials | 3.00 |
| 10116117 - Intro to HR Management | 3.00 |
| 10890106 - Strengths Seminar | 1.00 |
| 10116102 - Talent Acquisition | 3.00 |
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
| 10116172 - Compensation Management | 3.00 |
| 10103111 - Computer Applications for Business | 3.00 |
| 10116159 - Training & Development | 3.00 |
| 10116180 - Workplace Safety | 3.00 |
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
| 10809172 - Introduction to Diversity Studies | 3.00 |
| 10804123 - Math with Business Apps | 3.00 |
| 10801196 - Oral/Interpersonal Comm | 3.00 |
| 10801197 - Technical Reporting | 3.00 |
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
| 10116163 - Employee Benefits | 3.00 |
| 10116136 - Employee Relations | 3.00 |
| 10116158 - Employment Law | 3.00 |
| 10116120 - Organizational Culture | 3.00 |
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
| 10116115 - HR Capstone | 3.00 |
| 10116188 - HR Info Management | 3.00 |
| 10116116 - HR Stewardship | 3.00 |
| 10809198 - Intro to Psychology | 3.00 |