Career roadmap
How to Become a Human Resources Specialist
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a human resources specialist, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a human resources specialist: (1) get an education, (2) get HR experience, (3) learn the laws and systems, (4) earn a certification, (5) advance. Most people need about 1–4 years. BLS lists “bachelor's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a human resources specialist
Get an education
A degree in HR, business or a related field is common.
Get HR experience
Start as an HR assistant, recruiting coordinator or in an administrative role.
Learn the laws and systems
Understand key employment laws, I-9 rules and HRIS software.
Earn a certification
The aPHR, PHR or SHRM-CP strengthens your résumé.
Advance
Become an HR generalist, HR business partner or HR manager.
Education and training requirements
BLS lists a bachelor’s degree as typical, often in human resources, business or psychology. Some HR coordinators enter with an associate degree or administrative experience and grow through certifications.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 1–4 years |
Certifications and licenses
- SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP: Society for Human Resource Management certifications.
- aPHR and PHR (HRCI): HR Certification Institute credentials, from entry level to professional.
- Talent acquisition certifications: Such as SHRM’s talent acquisition specialty credential.
- Benefits certifications (CEBS): Certified Employee Benefit Specialist.
Skills to build now
Start with recruiting and interviewing, employment law basics, and hris and ats software, and practice confidentiality and empathy. Learning the human resources specialist vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- HR Assistant or Recruiting Coordinator: Support HR processes.
- HR Specialist or Recruiter: Own recruiting, onboarding or benefits.
- HR Generalist or Business Partner: Advise managers across HR topics.
- HR Manager or Director: Lead HR strategy and teams.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Human Resources Specialist training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do you need a degree to work in HR?
BLS lists a bachelor’s degree as typical, but many people start in HR assistant or recruiting coordinator roles and grow through experience and certifications.
Which HR certification is best?
SHRM-CP and PHR are widely recognized. The aPHR is designed for people new to HR.
How long does it take to become a human resources specialist?
Most people need about 1–4 years of training. BLS lists a bachelor’s degree as typical, often in human resources, business or psychology. Some HR coordinators enter with an associate degree or administrative experience and grow through certifications.
Do you need a degree to be a human resources specialist?
Usually. BLS lists a bachelor’s degree as typical, but many HR coordinators and recruiters start with administrative or recruiting experience and earn credentials such as the aPHR or SHRM-CP.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 13-1071 (Human resources specialists).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Human resources specialists (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.