Human Resources Management Certificate FAQ

We do not have any limits on the number of courses that a student may take each semester. However, we recommend students with a full time work schedule take only one or two courses per semester.

No. The courses are not sequential.

Yes.

Yes.

Individuals must apply to and be offered admission to earn a certificate. A maximum of two courses that will count towards satisfying the requirements for the certificate may be taken at SCPS prior to admission.

Yes. An undergraduate degree (in any field) is required for admission to the graduate certificate program. Experience in the human resources-related field as a manager, supervisor or team leader is helpful. However, typical career switcher students are working non-human resources professionals from a range of backgrounds, for example, teachers, lawyers, business and finance professionals.

Transfer credits are not accepted for this graduate certificate.

Students must earn a B- or better in all courses required for the certificate to be awarded. Should a grade fall below a B-, the student has the option of retaking the course in order to complete the requirements and be awarded the certificate.

The Certificate in Leadership in Human Resources Management is designed to be a stand-alone certificate program that provides the knowledge and skills essential to the Human Resources Management profession. However, if you think you might be interested in pursuing a master’s or other degree at some point, you are encouraged to contact your institutions of choice for their specific policies on the acceptance of transfer credit.

The Leadership in Human Resources Certificate program is much more than a prep course! The program is designed for both professionals who already hold a HR certification, and those who may wish to pursue certification in the future. If you are interested in sitting for your SHRM certification, we recommend taking HR 5112 – SHRM Learning System and Exam Preparation as your elective. If you already hold a SHRM certification, each course in this program is approved for 45 recertification Professional Development Credits (PDCs).

Along with your previous experience and education, completion of the certificate program and received credential supports the body of knowledge you bring to the human resources field to increase your employment potential. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of human resources managers is projected to grow 5 percent through 2032.

Earning a certificate is a way for you to earn credits in a structured, discipline-specific way. A certificate can prepare you to advance in your career, or to gain the extra knowledge needed to stay competitive and up-to-date in your field. There are many fields, however, that have professional certifications that may be recommended or required (ex. certified financial planning, project management, accounting). A certificate program does not lead to a professional certification. Yes, the courses you take in a certificate program could help you prepare to earn a professional field-specific certification, but earning a certificate is not the same as becoming certified.

Certificates offer discipline-specific courses that can help you acquire new skills for professional advancement or for a career transition. Our certificates are offered online, making them accessible from anywhere. Completion of the certificate demonstrates evidence of specialized education achievement. It is recognized on a University of Virginia transcript.

Certificate programs are designed to be stand-alone programs. Select courses, however, may be eligible for transfer. Colleges and universities may recognize these courses for transfer, but these decisions are made independently by the receiving institution.

Students like to earn certificates because they are affordable, they take less time to complete than a full-fledged degree, and they are practical. Often the knowledge gained in the classroom can be put to use the very next day. In the competitive job market, a certificate can provide the crucial margin needed for individuals to change careers, qualify for a promotion, or qualify for professional accreditation.