Business management – human resources
Start building a career supporting people and organizations.
Program at a glance
DEGREE TYPE
Associate of Applied Business
PROGRAM FORMAT
Online
LENGTH (FULL TIME)
4 semesters
CAREER COMMUNITY
Program overview
If you want a solid foundation in human resources (HR) and business management, the human resources program at Stark State College is designed for you. It balances practical, hands-on learning with real business skills so you can confidently enter the workforce or continue your education.
At Stark State, you’ll earn an associate of applied business degree with a focus in human resources — a pathway that prepares you for meaningful roles in HR departments across industries. You’ll learn foundational people-management skills as well as specialized topics like talent management, organizational culture, diversity awareness, and succession planning.
This program blends theory with real-world application, including hands-on recruitment simulations and exposure to HR technology — so you graduate ready to contribute on day one.
In addition, courses are offered fully online, allowing you to complete the program on a schedule that works for you.
Program details
In this program, you will:
- Understand how organizations and people interact in the workplace.
- Use business and quantitative methods to analyze real HR scenarios.
- Communicate clearly and professionally in written and verbal formats.
- Apply teamwork, leadership, and motivational strategies.
- Develop strategies for solving internal and external organizational problems.
These skills help you succeed not only in HR roles but in many areas of business.
Graduates are prepared for a range of human resources and related roles, such as:
- HR Assistant
- Recruiter
- HR Coordinator
- Employee Relations Specialist
These positions are essential in nearly every industry — from healthcare and manufacturing to finance and technology. (Note: job titles vary by employer and region.)
The Human Resources program typically takes four semesters to complete when attending full-time and is offered in a fully online format. Flexible scheduling and part-time options make it easier to balance school with work or other responsibilities. Whether you’re coming straight from high school or changing careers, the program is designed to fit your life.
FAQs
Graduates are prepared for roles such as HR assistant, recruiter, HR coordinator, or employee relations specialist.
Human resources specialists are projected to grow by 9%, which is faster than average, while payroll clerk positions are expected to grow by about 5%.
Yes. Flexible course options are available to help you balance work and school.
The program emphasizes hands-on learning, including recruitment simulations and exposure to HR software.
Yes. Internship opportunities are available through career services and employer partnerships.
Yes. Many courses are transferable to bachelor’s degree programs.
Yes. You may be eligible to earn credit through the Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) process.
Students have access to tutoring, academic advising, and job placement support.
Related programs
Looking for more career options? Check out these other programs.
Lowest tuition around
Put your money toward your goals – not debt.
Stark State’s tuition costs up to 83% less than other area colleges and universities. Along with financial aid and scholarship opportunities, you gain the most value for your education without sacrificing quality.
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Dan Fuline Jr., Ph.D
Department Chair, Management and Marketing
330-494-6170 ext. 4016
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Whether you’re just starting out, making your college comeback or looking for a change, you belong at Stark State.