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Human Resources
Associate in Applied Science (AAS)
Why choose Human Resources?
- Develop practical skills through coursework in the core competencies required for effective human resources. These practical skills are directly applicable to real-world human resources roles, allowing students to transition seamlessly into entry-level positions upon graduation.
- Human resources professionals are in demand and play a critical role in attracting, retaining, and developing top talent.
- Graduates are equipped to pursue opportunities in a wide range of industries, whether it's a small startup, a multinational corporation, a government agency, or a nonprofit organization, thereby increasing their employment prospects and job stability.
Human Resources is an integral component in the strategic advancement of any organization. As companies increasingly prioritize talent management strategies to drive innovation, productivity, and growth, the demand for skilled human resources professionals continues to rise.
Program Locations
Adams Campus
401 North Main Street
Adams, WI 53910
Marshfield Campus
2600 West 5th Street
Marshfield, WI 54449
Stevens Point Downtown Campus
1001 Centerpoint Drive
Stevens Point, WI 54481
Wisconsin Rapids Campus
500 32nd Street North
Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494
Online
Delivery:
Online (anytime, anywhere) or Hybrid/Blended
Daytime
Full-Time or Part-Time
8-Week Classes
Length of Program: Two Years
Credits: 60-61
Start Dates: Fall or Spring
Start at any time or campus by taking general education courses.
What You'll Learn
The Human Resources associate degree program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive skill set tailored to meet the demands of the modern human resources landscape. Graduates will acquire new skills in specialized areas crucial for effective HR management, including recruitment, hiring, training and development, employee records management, and compensation and benefits administration. Students will also explore key aspects of HR operations such as employment law, occupational safety and health, equal employment opportunity, wage management, healthcare administration, family leave policies, and retirement plans. With a strong emphasis on practical application and theoretical understanding, graduates will be well-equipped to navigate the complexities of the HR profession and make valuable contributions to any organization.
Mid-State’s program offers a dynamic learning environment that goes beyond traditional classroom instruction. Students will engage in hands-on experiences and simulations to reinforce learning and prepare for real-world challenges. Our state-of-the-art facilities and technology-equipped classrooms provide the tools and resources need to excel in your studies and prepare for a successful career in HR. You will have the option to take courses in person or fully virtually.
Outcomes
- Design an organizational workforce plan.
- Develop training programs.
- Analyze organizational total rewards programs.
- Incorporate employment law into business practices.
- Apply employee relations techniques.
Employability Skills
- Behave Responsibly: Ethical Behavior, Self-Responsibility, Conflict Resolution, Collaboration
- Communicate Effectively: Writing, Technical Documentation, Listening, Speaking, Interpersonal Communication, Reading
- Critical & Creative Thinking: Inquiry, Evidence Collection, Analysis, Reasoning, Reflection (Metacognition)
- Cultural, Social, & Global Awareness: Global Awareness, Social & Cultural Awareness, Social Responsibility
- Use Appropriate Technology: Use of Technology, Confidentiality, Security, Digital Civility
Learn more about employability skills at Mid-State.
Estimated Entire Program Cost
Cost based on the 2024/25 academic year.
- Tuition & Fees: $9,708.20
- Books: $1,170.59
- Supplies, Uniforms, and/or Exams: $0
- Total Estimated Cost: $10,878.79
Financial Aid Eligibility
This program is eligible for full Financial Aid
Cost of Attendance
Learn more about Cost of Attendance, an estimated budget that includes categories of expenses a student can expect to incur while attending.
This course has options available to receive credit for prior learning (CPL) or work experience.
| Catalog# | Title | Credits | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10801195 | Written Communication | 3 | |
| -or- | 10801136 | English Composition 1 | 3 |
| 10801198 | Speech | 3 | |
| -or- | 10801196 | Oral/Interpersonal Communication | 3 |
| 10106106 | Quality Customer Service | 3 | |
| 10103106 | Microsoft Office-Introduction | 3 | |
| 10196190 | Leadership Development | 3 | |
| 10102231 | Business Networking | 1 | |
| Term Total | 16 Credits | ||
| Catalog# | Title | Credits | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10809172 | Introduction to Diversity Studies | 3 | |
| -or- | 10809196 | Introduction to Sociology | 3 |
| -or- | 10809122 | Introduction to American Government | 3 |
| 10102110 | Employment Law | 3 | |
| 10102230 | Business Communities | 1 | |
| 10196193 | Human Resource Management | 3 | |
| 10196191 | Supervision | 3 | |
| 10101140 | Accounting 1 | 3 | |
| Term Total | 16 Credits | ||
| Catalog# | Title | Credits | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10804107 | College Mathematics | 3 | |
| -or- | 10804118 | Intermediate Algebra with Applications | 4 |
| -or- | 10804189 | Introductory Statistics | 3 |
| 10809195 | Economics | 3 | |
| 10196135 | Conflict Resolution | 3 | |
| 10102233 | Negotiation Skills | 1 | |
| 10196136 | Managing Risk & Safety | 3 | |
| Term Total | 13-14 Credits | ||
| Catalog# | Title | Credits | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10809198 | Introduction to Psychology | 3 | |
| -or- | 10809188 | Developmental Psychology | 3 |
| 10101120 | Payroll Accounting | 3 | |
| 10196171 | Organizational Development | 3 | |
| 10116153 | Compensation and Benefits | 3 | |
| 10116154 | Recruiting and Hiring | 3 | |
| Term Total | 15 Credits | ||
| Program Total | 60-61 Credits |
Instructors
Careers
- Human Resources Specialist
- Payroll/Benefits Specialist
- Staffing Administrator
- Labor Relations Specialist
- Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialist
- Training and Development Specialist
Fast-Track
High school students are eligible to enroll in this program and all courses required. Learn more about Mid-State Fast-Track.
Take the Next Step
“An associate degree in human resources is increasingly becoming essential in today's competitive job market. I am very excited that Mid-State is now offering this opportunity in the central Wisconsin area, as it serves as a stepping stone for those aspiring to pursue higher education or gain practical experience in HR roles, thus offering employers more value in future HR professionals in our area.”
HELEN LINDER
VICE PRESIDENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES
BOSTON INC. DBA FURNITURE & APPLIANCE MART, ASHLEY, ASHLEY OUTLET
Choose Your Path
Career pathways help you take your education one step at a time to maximize your investment and make college fit your life. Earn a credential and start using it in the workforce. Continue with another stack of related courses to gain a more advanced diploma or degree. Explore this program’s pathway in the graphic below. For an even quicker first step to a degree or diploma, check out our short-term certificates.
Transfer • Dual Credit • Credit for Prior Learning
