Human Resource Development for Higher Education and Industry (BS)

The University offers a bachelor of science (BS) in human resource development that prepares students to be human resource professionals in higher education, industry, business, government, and other agencies.

The Human Resource Development Program combines a core curriculum with directed electives that support the student's work background—or allow students to develop specialized areas of expertise. Content is based on the disciplines of education, business, psychology, and related behavioral sciences. Required studies in the major are drawn from the competency studies from the Association for Talent Development (ATD), formerly known as the American Society of Training and Development, and the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM).

Coursework includes study in the following areas—plus an internship.

• Basics of industrial training, education, and development activities in human resource development
• Impacts of technology and international development on world societies
• Instructional procedures and practices
• Psychology of work, strategic planning, occupational decision making, and development theory
• Roles of human resource developers and the management of goal-oriented learning experiences
• Safety programs, concern for liability, and planning a safe environment
• Use of instructional technology in a simulated teaching environment
• Various strategies for job and task analysis

In addition, students complete the University's Foundational Studies Program, which provides the knowledge students need in critical thinking, leadership, and interpersonal and communication skills.

While a minor is not required for completion of this degree, students are encouraged to pursue this option to enhance employability. Students should work with their advisors to select a relevant minor. Some suggested areas include: business administration, communication, psychology, and safety.

An important feature of the program is the blending of theoretical and practical learning experiences in both classroom and real world environments. All students complete an internship that enables them to put their knowledge into practice while exploring the possibilities of full-time employment.

Student organizations such as the Wabash Valley Collegiate Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and Females in Technology (FIT) are involved in a number of activities including field trips to business and industry locations, attendance at professional meetings and seminars, and mentoring. These groups sponsor guest speakers for student chapter meetings.

Special Note: Many students who choose to pursue the human resource development degree are already working in industry, education, or government—and decide to return to school for formal study. For the benefit of working students, flexibility is designed into the delivery system and sequencing of courses. In addition, degree-completion programs in the University's online learning program facilitate the transfer of credit and offer these students degree-completion options on campus or through online learning.