CollegeTuitionData — College Data in Plain English

Human Resources Management and Services at Herkimer County Community College

Credential: Associate's | State: NY

Annual Completions: 7

Build a Foundation for a Rewarding HR Career with Strong Earning Potential.

Program Analysis

The Human Resources Management and Services associate's degree program at Herkimer County Community College (NY) equips students with foundational knowledge and practical skills essential for managing an organization's most valuable asset: its people. Through coursework, students typically delve into areas such as recruitment and selection, compensation and benefits, employee relations, labor laws, training and development, and HR information systems. This program prepares graduates to understand and implement HR policies and procedures that support both employee well-being and organizational objectives.

Upon completion, graduates are well-positioned for entry-level roles within HR departments. Common career paths include Human Resources Assistant, HR Coordinator, Recruiter, Payroll Specialist, and Benefits Administrator. With experience, individuals can advance to roles like HR Generalist, HR Manager, Compensation Analyst, or Training and Development Specialist. While specific salary data for Herkimer County Community College graduates is not available (N/A for median earnings 1yr post-grad), national averages provide a strong indication of earning potential. Entry-level positions often start in the $40,000-$55,000 range. Mid-career professionals, with 5-10 years of experience, can expect to earn between $60,000 and $85,000. Senior HR leaders and specialists may command salaries exceeding $90,000, with some executive roles reaching $120,000 or more.

The return on investment (ROI) for an associate's degree in HR is generally favorable, especially considering the relatively lower cost of community college tuition compared to four-year institutions. While the exact cost of Herkimer's program should be verified, associate's degrees typically offer a quicker path to earning potential. The demand for skilled HR professionals remains robust, driven by evolving labor laws, the need for effective talent management, and the increasing complexity of workplace dynamics. Trends like remote work, diversity and inclusion initiatives, and employee engagement strategies further underscore the importance of HR expertise.

For prospective students, practical advice includes actively seeking internships or co-op opportunities during the program to gain hands-on experience. Networking with HR professionals in the local area and joining professional organizations like the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) can also be invaluable. Developing strong communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills will be critical for success in this people-centric field. Continuous learning is also key, as HR practices and regulations are constantly changing.

Career Paths

Graduates of Human Resources Management and Services at Herkimer County Community College can pursue the following career paths:

  • Human Resources Assistant. Median salary: $45,000, Moderate growth outlook.
  • Recruiter. Median salary: $60,000, Moderate growth outlook.
  • HR Coordinator. Median salary: $52,000, Moderate growth outlook.
  • Payroll Specialist. Median salary: $55,000, Moderate growth outlook.
  • HR Generalist. Median salary: $70,000, Strong growth outlook.

Skills Gained

Key skills developed in this program:

  • Recruitment and Staffing
  • Employee Relations
  • Compensation and Benefits Administration
  • HR Law and Compliance
  • HR Information Systems (HRIS)

Frequently Asked Questions about Human Resources Management and Services at Herkimer County Community College

Is Human Resources Management and Services. at Herkimer County Community College worth it?

While specific post-graduation earnings for Herkimer's program are not detailed, an associate's degree in Human Resources Management and Services provides a solid foundation for a career with good earning potential. Graduates can enter roles like HR Assistant or Coordinator, with national median salaries for these positions often starting around $45,000-$55,000. With experience, career progression to HR Generalist roles can lead to median salaries in the $70,000 range. Given the typically lower cost of community college programs, the ROI is often favorable, offering a quicker path to a stable career compared to more expensive, longer degree programs.

What jobs can I get with a Human Resources Management and Services. degree?

An associate's degree in Human Resources Management and Services opens doors to various entry-level and support roles within HR departments. Common job titles include Human Resources Assistant, HR Coordinator, Recruiter, Payroll Specialist, and Benefits Administrator. These roles involve tasks such as screening resumes, scheduling interviews, maintaining employee records, processing payroll, and assisting with benefits enrollment. With experience, graduates can advance to positions like HR Generalist, where they handle a broader range of HR functions, or specialize in areas like compensation or training.

How much do Human Resources Management and Services. graduates earn?

Entry-level graduates typically start in roles such as HR Assistant or Coordinator, with national starting salaries often ranging from $40,000 to $55,000 annually. As professionals gain experience, usually within 3-7 years, they can move into mid-level positions like HR Generalist, where median earnings can reach $60,000 to $85,000. Senior HR roles, such as HR Manager or specialized positions like Compensation Manager, can command salaries well over $90,000, with experienced executives potentially earning $120,000 or more. These figures represent national averages and can vary based on location, industry, and specific responsibilities.

Explore More

Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.