Certificate in Human Resources and Employment Relations

Learn about the latest issues in human resources and employment relations, Meet the need for ongoing education in your field or“Try out” graduate study without entrance exams, applications, or committing to a full-time program.

With our postbaccalaureate certificate program, you have the opportunity to earn an academic credential after only three courses — while you continue working as a professional in the field. The classes are held in the late afternoon and early evening to help you fit them into your schedule.

You’ll be taught by members of Penn State’s graduate faculty, and the courses can be counted toward the Master of Science degree in Human Resources and Employment Relations offered in residence at University Park, upon your acceptance into the Graduate School.

Criteria for Admission

• You are required to have an undergraduate degree from a four-year college or university.
• You should have at least two years of professional experience before entering the program.

You should submit the following before completing your first course:

1. A valid undergraduate transcript as proof of graduation
2. A completed online application (please submit a copy of this application with your other materials)
3. A one page statement of purpose, focusing on educational and professional objectives
4. A resume

Send official transcripts to:

HRER Postbaccalaureate Certificate Program
Attn: Graduate Staff Assistant
003 Keller Building
The Pennsylvania State University
University Park PA 16802

Course Curriculum

Students must complete 9 credits of graduate-level courses while maintaining a 3.0 grade point average. Courses are three hours long, one day a week. They are scheduled in the late afternoon, Monday through Thursday.

Two courses are required: HRER 504 (Seminar in Employment Relations) and HRER 505 (Seminar in Human Resources)

Choose a third course from a list that includes courses on employment law, diversity in the workplace, organizational behavior, work and family, labor markets, and special topics.