Is 40 Too Old To Get a Degree in Human Resources?
Many people earn degrees later in life, but is 40 too old to get into HR? We've got everything you need to know about earning a human resources degree at 40.
Human resources is the department within a company that manages employee administration, including hiring, training, payroll, and benefits.
Many students choose to go back or start school later in life, but is 40 too old to get into HR? It's not, and we break down what you need to know about getting an HR degree at 40 in the article below.
Is 40 Too Old to Get Into HR?
Forty is not too old to get into HR; many people change careers, go back to school, or start their education when they're older.
Of course, that doesn't mean it's going to be easy. Often, people in their 40s who are earning their degree are also balancing work and a family.
However, there are also many benefits to earning a new degree at 40. You're more likely to be focused, know what you want, and have life experience that helps you succeed in school.
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Arizona State University
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How To Get into HR at 40
To work in HR, you'll typically need at least a bachelor's degree in human resources or business. Bachelor's degrees are undergraduate degrees that take four years to complete.
Completing an internship or having prior work experience in areas like customer service and office administration can also help boost your career chances.
Careers in HR
There are several career opportunities for people wanting to work in human resources. These include:
- human resources specialist
- human resources manager
- human resources analyst
- labor relations specialist
- payroll and benefits manager
Employees in these roles may earn an excellent wage depending on their specific job title and amount of experience.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, No InterWiki reference defined in properties for Wiki called "shttps"! is expected to increase over the next ten years.
For example, employment of human resources specialists, managers, and analysts is expected to grow by 5-7%. However, some roles, like labor relations specialists, are expected to decline in employment.
What To Look for in an HR Degree as a 40-Year-Old
Because many 40-year-olds lead busy lives, looking for a flexible program option is often best. This can come in the form of an online degree.
When choosing a degree program, there are a few things you should consider. These include:
- flexibility of the program
- format of the program - online or on-campus
- program schedule
- concentration or emphasis options
- course offerings
- program length
- program cost
- financial aid options
Each student has different needs, and by considering the things above, you'll be able to determine which programs will meet your needs best.
Flexible Online HR Degree Programs
Several colleges and universities across the United States offer flexible online HR degree programs. These include:
- Arizona State University
- Charter Oak State College
- Colorado State University Global
- National University
- Penn State World Campus
- Purdue Global
- Southern New Hampshire University
- University of Maryland Global Campus
- UMass Global
- Western Governors University
The programs above all offer online HR degrees that students can complete on their own schedule, allowing them to maintain a healthy balance between school, work, and their personal lives.
How Long Does It Take To Earn a Degree in Human Resources?
The length of time it takes to earn a degree in human resources can depend on several factors, including:
- what level of degree you're earning
- whether you study full time or part time
- the pace of the course
- how much previous college experience you have
Four-year bachelor's degrees are most common for a career in HR, but you can also earn an associate degree, which takes two years, or a master's degree, which also averages about two additional years.
Many online programs have shorter course terms instead of the standard 16-week semester. They may offer courses in four, six, or eight weeks, which can allow you to get through your program faster.
Additionally, most colleges will accept transfer credits and some offer credit for professional certifications or experience.
How Much Does It Cost To Earn a Degree in Human Resources?
Several things can impact the cost of your human resources degree.
The average cost of tuition for an undergraduate degree in the United States is $9,678 per year for in-state students and $27,091 per year for out-of-state students. Private schools average $38,768.
Often, online programs have a lower tuition than in-person programs, and some public schools will charge out-of-state students the same rate as in-state students for online programs.
You may also qualify for financial aid, like grants, scholarships, and student loans, to help cover the cost of your degree. Fill out your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to find out what you qualify for.
As an older student, you may qualify for grants and scholarships specifically geared toward students who are past the traditional college age, who work full-time, or who are parents.
Begin a Career in HR at 40
Forty is not too old to get a degree in human resources. With the guide above, you can determine if getting an HR degree at 40 is right for you.
Keep Reading: 10 Best Degrees for People in Their 40s
