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Human Resource Management
Program Number: 101162
Your Degree: Associate Degree
Estimated Time to Complete: 60 Credits | Finish degree in 2 years
Delivery Method: 100% Online, Some Online/Some In Person
Area of Study: Business
Estimated Program Cost: $11,728.20
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Program Overview
Human Resources (HR) is an essential service in every business and organization. HR professionals are the link between employees and employers.
They work to make sure everyone feels valued and is doing their best work. Madison College’s Human Resource Management associate degree can prepare you for this rewarding and in-demand career field.
This degree is great for high school graduates. And with its flexible class offerings, it is also ideal for working professionals. Whether you want to advance your career or switch fields, this program is designed for you.
If you are looking to add value to your skill set in specific areas and with minimal time, Madison College also offers three Human Resources certificate options.
Program Video
Explore the Human Resources Program and learn about career opportunities.
What You'll Learn in the HR Program
As a student in the Human Resource Management associate degree program, you will learn to:
- Create an organizational workforce plan to include recruitment and retention of employees
- Develop training programs
- Examine and manage organizational compensation programs, including salary, retirement savings, bonuses and insurance
- Incorporate employment law into business practices
- Facilitate effective employee-employer relations, including relations with regulatory and labor organizations
The Human Resource curriculum is built on both the why and how of HR. Coursework covers theory of management leadership styles, effective staffing, employment law, organizational training and more. You will then put this learning to work in HR Capstone with in-class simulations and real-world applications.
Practical Skills
This program will teach you the practical skills needed to keep the employee-employer relationship and the work environment thriving. It will also help you grow the soft skills needed to be successful in the field.
- Every day is different for HR professionals, so you will need organizational skills to manage your time, duties and information.
- Numbers, laws, policies and forms are a big part of the job. A detail-oriented mindset will make your work easier and more effective.
- A focus on people is the core of human resources. Successful HR professionals are empathetic and good communicators. They help people through illnesses, career development and promotions.
- Of course, managing the interests of everyone involved can be tricky. You will need critical thinking and problem-solving abilities to arrive at the best outcomes.
Stackable Credential
With a few more credits, you can earn a double major with a Business Management associate's degree to make you an even more valuable employee.
Human Resources Associate Degree credits can transfer to a four-year university, if you decide to go even further in your education and career opportunities.
Program Details
Students in the Human Resource program can attend full or part time. Human Resource associate degree classes are offered at the Madison College Truax campus. While some classes are held in person, this degree can be completed 100% online, perfect for working professionals.
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Program Courses
Here's a sample course sequence that shows how classes for full-time students are typically organized by semester.
Once you're admitted, your full curriculum and sequence—including any pre-requisites—is defined in your Degree Progress Report.
First Semester10-102-134Introduction to Business
Explore concepts related to business strategy, marketing, operations, finance, and corporate culture, as well as their interrelationship within the organization. Expand understanding through case studies and a computer business simulation. Recognize the role of small businesses and their participation in international markets. Use an Ethics framework, further explored in upper-level Program classes, to promote and enforce ethical behavior.3 credits10-116-145Introduction to Human Resources
This course explores the basics of human management including strategic human resource planning, issues in human resources, planning, equal employee opportunity, analyzing and staffing jobs, training and development, and global and international employment.3 credits10-106-100Mindset for Success
Designed to foster the attitudes and skills that can inspire and empower you throughout your career regardless of your chosen path. Develop and improve skills in creativity, ambition, critical thinking, innovation, opportunistic thinking, and teamwork through experiential and problem-solving approaches. Become an engaged workplace contributor and develop a workforce-ready mindset.3 credits10-801-195Written Communication
Develops workplace writing skills which include prewriting, drafting, revising, and editing. A variety of writing assignments are designed to help the learner analyze audience and purpose, research and organize ideas, and format and design documents based on workplace subject matter and content.3 creditsSelect one of the following:10-104-102Marketing Principles
Explore the dynamic and engaging world of marketing where creativity meets strategy. This course dives into the four key principles: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. Students will uncover how marketing shapes business through topics like target markets, consumer behavior, product development, pricing strategies, distribution channels, and innovative promotions.3 credits10-114-130Personal Finance
This introductory course considers finance from the point of view of the individual or family unit. Topics include budgets, insurance, housing, borrowing, saving, investing and estate planning. Students complete personal finance projects applying the material learned.3 credits10-106-107Business Document Applications
Achieve expert-level word processing skills by learning on Microsoft Office Word. Students will utilize the software to solve practical problems in a project-based format. Explore fundamentals and best practices in document creation, editing, formatting, collaboration, tables, mail merge, desktop publishing, themes, templates, forms, and macros. Students must have the ability to key 30 WPM.3 creditsSecond Semester10-106-109Business Spreadsheet Applications
Create professional, data-driven workbooks using Microsoft Excel. Develop skills with formulas, functions, worksheet formatting, charts, tables, conditional formatting, multiple worksheets and workbooks, templates, data validation, worksheet protection, and macros. Import and cleanse data, perform what-if analysis using Scenario Manager, Data Tables, and Solver, and complete loan amortization, investment analysis, and asset depreciation calculations.3 credits10-116-147Wage, Salary & Benefits Admin
This course focuses on basic systems and plans of compensation for employees including merit pay, incentive pay, and person focused pay. This course also covers principal techniques in the development and administration of employee benefit programs.3 credits10-116-149Effective Staffing
This course provides a comprehensive approach to planning for organizational staffing, including position analysis, job descriptions, job postings, selections methods and onboarding. It will also employ a wide range of recruiting and selection methods and identifying onboarding procedures.3 credits10-116-152Organizational Training and Development
This course offers an overview of training and development in organizations. Students will have opportunities to analyze, design, develop, implement, and evaluate training methods. They will learn effective techniques for training, creating job aids, and designing classroom/virtual instruction. The course also introduces adult learning styles and training effectiveness.3 credits10-801-196Oral/Interpersonal Communication
Focuses on developing effective listening techniques and verbal and nonverbal communication skills through oral presentation, group activity, and other projects. The study of self, conflict, and cultural contexts will be explored, as well as their impact on communication.3 creditsThird Semester10-101-111Accounting 1 - Principles
Introduction to the field of accounting. The accounting cycle of journalizing transactions, posting, adjusting and closing entries, as well as the preparation of accounting statements is emphasized for service industries and merchandising concerns. Details of accounting for cash and receivables are studied. An introduction to a computerized accounting system is also included.4 credits10-102-143Organizational Management
Learn why results and relationships are key to effective management, in the context of the traditional managerial elements of planning, organizing, directing, and controlling. Apply techniques for problem solving, critical thinking, decision-making, delegation, motivation, change management, and political savvy behavior to case studies, simulations, and activities. Self-assess Emotional Intelligence (EI) and apply techniques to improve EI. Manage tasks while working independently and/or remotely.3 credits10-116-148Employee Relations
This course includes assessing the organizational culture, employee rights and discipline, union-management including negotiation and conflict resolution techniques, and applying DEI concepts to foster an inclusive organizational culture.3 credits10-116-168Employment Law
This course explores employment laws that are relevant to human resources functions. Identify laws that impact employment relations, explore solutions to human resource issues, and identify situations to determine if other legal resources are required.3 credits10-804-144Math of Finance
This course takes an algebraic approach to solving financial problems. Topics include personal finance and retirement, mathematics of retailing, mathematics of banking and lending, and statistical applications. Major emphasis is placed on solving problems involving the time value of money by using a financial calculator. The material in this course develops a sound base for subsequent courses by using an analytical approach to problem solving.3 creditsFourth Semester10-101-154Payroll Accounting
This course introduces the student to the many aspects of payroll accounting, administration, and management. The course is intended for accounting students, other business students and outside professionals who have a need or interest in understanding the laws and regulations, the calculations (including all payroll taxes), the government reporting and the accounting entries related to the payroll function.1 credit10-102-132Strategic Leadership
Gain insights from key leadership experts related to leading oneself, others, and change in organizations. Apply past learned insights and techniques to two simulations, a computerized business and a real-world failing one. Integrate key principles of strategic, financial, marketing and operations management by demonstrating competent managerial problem solving, decision-making and critical thinking. Enhance business perspectives while developing an ability to be a high-integrity, ethical leader.3 credits10-102-135Project Management Fundamentals
Develop skills to manage a project from start to finish through teamwork. Class topics include project acceptance; defining, planning, scheduling, leading, monitoring, and controlling projects; and project closeout. Apply skills, both as a participant and a project leader, in case studies and group projects, using tools such as Microsoft Project, templates, charters, Gantt charts, critical paths, milestones, risk control and prioritization.3 credits10-116-169Human Resources Capstone
This final Human Resource Management program course integrates and enhances knowledge and skills developed throughout the program. Topics include employment law, policies, staffing, meeting facilitation, compensation, and management techniques while utilizing an actual HRIS software to apply these topics in a real-world scenario.1 credit10-809-195Economics
This course is designed to give an overview of microeconomics, macroeconomics, and international economics. Concepts include scarcity, resources, alternative economic systems, growth, supply and demand, monetary and fiscal policy, inflation, unemployment and global economic issues.3 credits10-809-199Psychology Of Human Relations
This course explores the relationship between general psychological principles and our everyday lives. Students are given the opportunity to achieve a deepened sense of awareness of themselves and others. This understanding is applied to human relations at home and on the job.3 credits -
How to Apply
To Apply
Earning a degree is a great way to advance your career development opportunities, so apply today!
If you are an international student and want to apply to Madison College, or transfer your F-1 student visa here, check program availability and then complete the International Admission Process.
Note: It is recommended to only apply for a semester that has already started if you are currently enrolled in classes, or you have verified that classes are still available for that semester.
Application Dates
Fall 2026
- Application open
- Application completion deadline is November 15, 2026
Spring 2027
- Application open
- Application completion deadline is April 15, 2027
Summer 2027
- Application available on September 15, 2026
- Application completion deadline is July 15, 2027
Fall 2027
- Application available on October 15, 2026
- Application completion deadline is November 15, 2027
Admission Requirements
All materials must be submitted by the application deadline.
1. Admission Application
The online application allows you to save your work as you complete it and ensures fast, secure delivery to our office.
2. Education Completion
Submit official transcripts from the institutions you attended that indicate one of the following:
- High school completion (current high school seniors may submit an in-progress transcript)
- GED/HSED completion
- College transcript or Madison College experience showing:
- Completion of an associate degree or higher, or
- At least 30 credits completed with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4-point scale
- The credits must be completed at a single college and cannot be combined with other transcripts
- Any transfer credit listed on a transcript does not count toward the 30-credit minimum
- Credits completed at Madison College are evaluated and do not require a transcript
All high school and/or college transcripts are recommended to be submitted for Credit for Prior Learning evaluation.
Additional Notes
Individual courses may have prerequisites to enroll. Admission into a certificate or waiting list does not guarantee eligibility to enroll in courses. See the Curriculum section for the list of courses for the certificate.
Questions?
Contact the Enrollment Center at EnrollmentServices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.
Get Started!
Apply to Madison College and take the first step towards your Human Resource Management career.
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Transfer Opportunities
UW System Schools
Students who complete the Associate degree in Human Resource Management at Madison College, submit the Declaration of Intent to Participate, and meet specified levels of academic achievement as outlined in this transfer agreement will be guaranteed direct admission to the UW-Madison School of Business Online BBA-Human Resources program.The terms of the B.S in Leadership & Org Studies agreement are limited to students who complete selective A.A.S or A.A.A. degrees and are admitted to the Organizational Studies emphasis at UW-Oshkosh. Students must have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higherThis program-to-program articulation agreement between UW-Platteville and Madison College provides students with guaranteed admission into the UW-Platteville Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) Human Resource Management major and to be awarded ALL Associate Degree credits toward the BBA Human Resource Management major after successful completion of their Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)-Degree at Madison CollegeStudents must complete the entire sending program and meet the receiving institution’s admission requirements for the agreement to apply. Students completing this agreement are guaranteed admission to the University of Wisconsin Stout and the B.S. Business Administration, General Business concentration program at a junior level standing. The receiving institution will apply 60 credits from the sending program. A total of 60 credits remain to complete the receiving program at UW Stout.Wisconsin Private Schools
Student who earn an Associate Degree from Madison College can transfer a minimum of 60 credits and a maximum of 72 credits to Lakeland College to be applied to the requirements of the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Sciences degree.Completion of an A.A.S. Degree at Madison College after 2018, and meeting admission requirements for the Rader School of Business (RSOB) at the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) can earn a B.B.A degree in Technical Sales at MSOE.Out-of-State Schools
Franklin University will guarantee acceptance of Madison College graduates with an AA, AS, or AAS. Madison College graduates will have junior standing at Franklin University and may transfer up to 94 additional credits toward their baccalaureate degree. -
Career Outcomes
Earning your associate degree in the Human Resource Management program at Madison College prepares you for a valuable career as a:
- Recruiter
- Employment Verification Specialist
- HR Assistant or Generalist
- Training Coordinator
With additional education and/or work experience, graduates may find employment as:
- Compensation Specialist
- Job Analyst
- HR Manager
- Training Manager
- Labor Relations Specialist
- Equal Employment Opportunity Specialist
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Graduate Summary
Graduate Report Summary Overview
2023 2024 2025 Number of Program Graduates 10 28 22 Number of Surveys Sent 10 28 22 Number of Surveys Returned 7 16 16 Percent of Surveys Returned Available for Employment 7 15 15 Percent Available for Employment 100.0% 93.8% 93.8% Not in Labor Market Percent Not in Labor Market 0.0% 6.3% 6.3% Available for Employment
2023 2024 2025 Graduates Employed 5 13 14 Percent of Graduates Employed 71.4% 86.7% 93.3% Employed in Related Occupation 4 8 10 Percent Employed in Related Occupation 80.0% 61.5% 71.4% Employed in Unrelated Occupation 1 5 4 Percent Employed in Unrelated Occupation 20.0% 38.5% 28.6% Employed - No Response 0 0 0 Percent Employed - No Response 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Seeking Employment 2 2 1 Percent Seeking Employment 28.6% 13.3% 6.7% Reaction To Training at Madison College
2023 2024 2025 Student satisfaction Mean (Out of 4) 3.4 3.4 3.7 Number of Satisfaction Responses 7 15 16 Very Satisfied (4) 3 6 12 Percent Very Satisfied 42.9% 40.0% 75.0% Satisfied (3) 4 9 3 Percent Satisfied 57.1% 60.0% 18.8% Unsatisfied (2) 0 0 1 Percent Unsatisfied 0.0% 0.0% 6.3% Very Unsatisfied (1) Percent Very Unsatisfied 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Primary Reason for Attending Madison College
2023 2024 2025 Number of Primary Reason Responses 7 16 16 Preparation for Getting a Job 2 5 7 Percent Preparation for Getting a Job 28.6% 31.3% 43.8% Career Change 1 6 5 Percent Career Change 14.3% 37.5% 31.3% Improvement of Existing Skills 1 1 3 Percent Improvement of Existing Skills 14.3% 6.3% 18.8% Preparation for Further Education 2 3 1 Percent Preparation for Further Education 28.6% 18.8% 6.3% Personal Interest 1 1 0 Percent Personal Interest 14.3% 6.3% 0.0% Other 0 0 0 Percent Other 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% When Employment was Obtained
2023 2024 2025 Number of When Employment Obtained Responses 5 13 14 Before Enrollment 2 3 5 Percent Before Enrollment 40.0% 23.1% 35.7% While Attending the College 2 7 3 Percent While Attending the College 40.0% 53.8% 21.4% After Training at the College 1 3 6 Percent After Training at the College 20.0% 23.1% 42.9% Location of Employment (related and unrelated)
2023 2024 2025 Number of Employment Location Responses 5 13 14 In College District 3 10 8 Percent In College District 60.0% 76.9% 57.1% In Wisconsin, Not in District 0 2 4 Percent of In Wisconsin 0.0% 15.4% 28.6% Outside of Wisconsin 1 1 1 Percent Outside Wisconsin 20.0% 7.7% 7.1% Employer Location Unknown 1 0 1 Percent Location Unknown 20.0% 0.0% 7.1% Salary Trend 2023 2024 2025 Full Time Employment (Related Job) Full Time Salary Count 4 6 9 Average Monthly Wage $4,663 $4,566 $4,051 Average Hourly Wage $27.11 $26.54 $23.55 Average Work Hours per Week 40.0 40.7 39.7 Part Time Employment (Related Job) Part Time Salary Count 2 1 Average Hourly Wage $28.83 $20.00 Average Work Hours per Week 28.5 15.0 -
Graduate Employers
Graduate Employers for academic year: 2025 Employer(s) Job Title City* State** Positions Dept of Revenue Compliance Revenue Agent Dominican Sisters Of Sinsinawa Communication & Graphic Design Specialist Sinsinawa Electronic Theatre Controls Inc Human Resources Intern Middleton Hy-Vee HR Manager Kuhl Corner Campus Teacher Lake Mills Legislative Human Resources Office HR Specialist Mt Olympus Human Resources Generalist Wisconsin Dells Newbridge HR Manager Reyes Holdings Administrative Assistant La Crosse Rural Mutual Insurance Company HR Assistant * - Only cities outside of Madison will display.
** - Only states outside of Wisconsin will display.
*** - If you have a position to post, please contact Career and Employment Services at jobpostings@madisoncollege.edu
