Human Resources Management

Have you always been a “people person”? Do you have a knack for organizing responsibility in group settings and recognizing the potential and the strengths that different people bring to the table? Pursuing a Human Resources Management program can put you on the path to nurture these abilities and develop your career. In addition, third-year York students in the Honours Bachelor of Human Resource Management (BHRM) program may be eligible to participate in a paid internship--the Human Resource Management Internship Program (HRMIP)--for up to sixteen months.

Career Options in Human Resources Management

This list is not exhaustive but provides an idea of the options graduates have and what they have gone on to do. Some options are more directly associated with a Human Resources Management degree than others.

Advertising Representative
Author
Benefits Coordinator
Career Counsellor
Compensation Analyst
Corporate Trainer
Editor/Publisher
Employee Relations Manager
Entrepreneur
Event Coordinator
Exhibit Planner
Facilities Coordinator
General Manager
Government Administrator
Grievance Officer
Human Resources Director
Industrial Relations Specialist
Journalist

Labour Consultant
Labour Policy Analyst
Lawyer
Legal Secretary
Logistics Specialist
Marketing Specialist
Media Correspondent
Mediator
Non-profit Administrator
Office Manager
Operations Researcher
Policy Advisor
Press Agent
Professor
Project Manager
Recruiting Specialist
Speech Writer
Staffing Manager

Some of these career choices may require additional education or preparation in the form of graduate studies, experiential education or professional formative courses and exams. For a more in-depth description of some of the careers mentioned above visit Career Cruising (login information can be found on the home page of the Career Centre's online system) or the National Occupational Classification website.

Skills Developed through a Human Resources Management Degree

A background in Human Resources Management ensures that you develop the skills and mindset to tackle many different professional challenges.

Core Skills

Knowledge of the various facets of human resources management theory and application, including issues ranging from employee relations and employment equity to recruitment and workforce planning
In depth understanding of the challenges facing companies and organizations in contemporary economic realities

Communication, Data Gathering and Organizational Skills

The ability to present your thoughts clearly and intelligently in written statements and written opinion pieces
Deduction of information from various sources and the ability to concentrate on relevant resources
The capacity to critically analyze problems, think creatively and make sound decisions while considering different sides of an argument
The ability to explain complex ideas clearly to others and to apply complex theoretical concepts to everyday practice and professional dilemmas

Management and Teamwork

The ability to interpret and analyze information presented by peers and efficiently and constructively support or challenge their proposals, theories, ideas and reports in order to achieve a project’s intended and successful end result
The capacity to lead and interact with a variety of people with different approaches and personal and professional backgrounds
Skills enabling you to work effectively in group situations, partaking in decision-making, leading and contributing in various capacities to the ultimate success of the team and task
The capability to identify priorities and proper courses of action, to plan the execution of tasks and to determine and delegate responsibilities to group members to most effectively carry out projects

Professional Associations and Organizations

Knowing the industry and how to excel in it after receiving a degree are key elements of future success. University study sets up the building blocks you will need to develop and enhance your understanding and knowledge in your career. Being part of a professional organization or network and gaining further insight through training are excellent ways of increasing your knowledge of the field.