The program is designed for professionals who desire further education in the specialized field of Human Resources and Employment Relations (HRER) without completing a full master's degree. Many professionals and recent graduates believe they need further education beyond their bachelor's degree for personal and professional development and to compete effectively in the labor market for HRER practitioners. The certificate program provides flexibility for working professionals and advanced knowledge in the rapidly changing field of HRER in many areas, including: dispute management and resolution, workplace diversity, work and family, trends in human resources, and technology and the workplace. Upon successful completion of the certificate program, students may opt to apply for the master's degree in HRER. Courses taken in the certificate program may be applied toward a master's degree in HRER, subject to restrictions outlined in GCAC-309 Transfer Credit. Certificate students who wish to have certificate courses applied towards a graduate degree in HRER must apply and be admitted to that degree program. Admission to the HRER graduate degree program is a separate step and is not guaranteed.

The Human Resources and Employment Relations at Pennsylvania State University is a Full Time Graduate Certificate program offered on the University Park campus in United States of America. The program is delivered on campus in English and can be completed in 1 year. Students develop academic knowledge and practical skills that prepare them for future careers in this field. The next available intake starts on June 1, 2027.
About Graduate Certificate in Human Resources and Employment Relations
- Students will be able to demonstrate the necessary basic disciplinary knowledge and competence to develop future ER and HRM careers.
- Students will be able to apply their knowledge by interacting effectively with organizational leaders in helping to develop and implement organizational strategies.
- Students will be able to effectively communicate knowledge of current HRM and ER topics both verbally and in writing.
- Students will be able to recognize and analyze practical, legal, and ethical ER and HRM challenges in the workplace.
- Students will be able to respond appropriately to practical, legal, and ethical ER and HRM challenges in the workplace using both theoretical and practical approaches and in accordance with the standards, values and best practices of their discipline.
Requirements and Admission Criteria for Graduate Certificate in Human Resources and Employment Relations at Pennsylvania State University
Entry Requirements
Degree Requirements and Academic Credentials:
4-6 year Bachelor's Degree.
Official transcript; official certification of degree and date awarded; documents required in English only. Documents must be issued by the school with the official stamps and signature.
English Requirements
- IELTSMin 6.5
- TOEFLMin 80
Tuition and Fee Information for Graduate Certificate in Human Resources and Employment Relations at Pennsylvania State University
How to Apply for Graduate Certificate in Human Resources and Employment Relations at Pennsylvania State University
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United States of America, University Park