A career in human resources (HR) is a chance to influence a company’s success by focusing on its people. The work includes tasks like recruiting, training, managing employee relations, and designing fair pay and benefits. HR professionals shape company culture and make sure talent strategies support overall business.
An advanced degree, like the affordable, AACSB-accredited online Master of Business Administration (MBA) with an emphasis in Human Resource Management from the University of West Florida (UWF), equips graduates with the skills they need to excel in leadership roles and increase their earning potential. With a curriculum that blends business strategy with specialized HR expertise, the program prepares graduates to drive organizational success while advancing their own careers.
HR Salary Ranges: How Much Do HR Professionals Earn?
HR professionals typically begin their career in a generalist or administrative role. As in any job, entry-level experience is essential for advancement to higher positions:
- Entry-level positions: New HR professionals often start as HR assistants or HR coordinators. These roles handle administrative duties, maintain employee records, assist with payroll and benefits questions, and support recruiting efforts. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual pay for human resources specialists was $72,910, with a job growth outlook of 6% through 2034, which is faster than average.
- Mid-level roles: With a few years of experience, professionals often move into roles like HR generalist, recruiter, or benefits specialist. These positions take on more responsibility, handling employee relations matters, designing training programs, and focusing on an area like talent acquisition. An HR generalist can earn an annual salary of around $78,000.
- Senior and executive roles: Higher-level roles include HR manager, HR director, Chief People Officer (CPO), and Vice President of HR. These roles report to senior leadership and involve shaping organizational policy. The median annual wage for HR managers is $140,030, with a 5% job growth outlook through 2034.
Factors Influencing HR Salaries
HR roles come with attractive salary options. Compensation can vary, however, based on several factors, such as:
- Experience and education: Salary levels go up as professionals gain experience and move into management roles. An MBA helps professionals increase their earning potential.
- Location: Pay rates are heavily influenced by the cost of living and the concentration of high-paying companies in each area.
- Industry: Professionals working in the technology and finance fields often make higher salaries.
Job Outlook: Is Demand Growing for HR Professionals?
The job market for HR professionals is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations. Several HR areas are seeing strong growth as businesses focus on their workforces.
- Talent acquisition/recruiting: Since hiring top talent is a priority for organizations, high-performing recruiters and talent acquisition leaders are in high demand.
- Compensation and benefits: Professionals who can design competitive pay packages are highly sought after, especially those with knowledge of global benefits packages and related regulations.
- HR Analytics and Information Systems (HRIS): The need for data-driven decision-making means demand is growing for professionals who can manage HR technology and use data to predict and solve workforce issues.
Become an HR Leader With an MBA from UWF
Many HR functions, particularly those involving policy, recruiting, and system management, can now be done remotely. While some roles remain on site, a mix of hybrid and fully remote HR positions are more common. This means HR professionals need strong organizational skills and experience with digital collaboration and managing a remote workforce.
For professionals looking to advance their careers, the AACSB-accredited online Master of Business Administration with an emphasis in Human Resource Management from the University of West Florida offers an accessible, affordable option. In addition to positioning graduates for leadership roles and better pay, an MBA sends a signal to potential employers that a candidate is committed to organizational and career growth.
Learn more about the University of West Florida’s online MBA with an emphasis in Human Resource Management.
