20 answers
Katelyn
Student
Nevada City, California
6
Questions
Asked
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Can I work in HR with just my associates degree?
Can I get a job in HR with just my associates degree in business?
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20 answers
Dianne Fernandes
HR Director at PricewaterhouseCoopers
7
Answers
Updated
Dianne’s Answer
You can definitely start a career in Human Resources with an Associate's degree, depending on the company's hiring policies. You'll likely begin in an entry-level position, but as you gain experience and develop your skills, you can move up. As you work in HR, you might discover areas you enjoy more, like Employee Relations, Compensation, or Performance Management. To get ready for these opportunities, consider enrolling in an HR certificate program that focuses on your interests. These programs are often available online or in the evenings, allowing you to work while you study. Joining a professional HR organization, like SHRM, can also help you keep learning and expand your network. Best of luck on your journey!
Kariba Tillman
Culture and Belonging
3
Answers
Washington, Washington
Updated
Kariba’s Answer
Absolutely! An Associate's degree is a great start for entry-level jobs in human resources. As you aim to advance, think about getting certifications in different HR areas and learning how AI is changing company systems and processes. I encourage you to explore various HR roles, like training, onboarding, inclusion, talent acquisition, and operations, to build a well-rounded career.
Erike Hoston
University & Early Career Recruiting Lead
1
Answer
Fuquay Varina, North Carolina
Updated
Erike’s Answer
You can definitely work in HR with just an Associate's degree. Success in HR depends on your eagerness to learn, adapt, and explore. Many HR skills are learned on the job, and being flexible and open to new experiences will help you stand out. Staying curious keeps you engaged with changes in the workplace and people management.
To enhance your qualifications and confidence, consider earning some respected certifications. These can give you a strong foundation and show your dedication to the field.
With a positive attitude and a willingness to learn, you can do well in an HR career.
To enhance your qualifications and confidence, consider earning some respected certifications. These can give you a strong foundation and show your dedication to the field.
With a positive attitude and a willingness to learn, you can do well in an HR career.
Jessica Schenck
Talent Development
2
Answers
Saint Paul, Nebraska
Updated
Jessica’s Answer
Hi Katelyn,
Congratulations on earning your Associate's Degree! It's a great first step in your HR career. Think about which HR area you enjoy most, such as Benefits, Employee Relations, Talent Acquisition, Workman's Compensation, Culture, Employee Experience, Training, Leadership Development, Payroll, etc.
Use your business knowledge to find volunteer opportunities and build your resume. Consider internships, both remote and in-person, and look for entry-level jobs like HR assistant or payroll specialist to gain experience. If you plan to advance further, working on a bachelor's degree could be beneficial, as many companies prefer it for higher positions.
I began my HR career at a startup staffing agency, which gave me experience in sales, interviewing, and more. Now, I'm in staffing and we're expanding our team with more healthcare recruiters.
Start using your strong communication skills to enter the HR field and aim for bigger roles as you grow.
Congratulations on earning your Associate's Degree! It's a great first step in your HR career. Think about which HR area you enjoy most, such as Benefits, Employee Relations, Talent Acquisition, Workman's Compensation, Culture, Employee Experience, Training, Leadership Development, Payroll, etc.
Use your business knowledge to find volunteer opportunities and build your resume. Consider internships, both remote and in-person, and look for entry-level jobs like HR assistant or payroll specialist to gain experience. If you plan to advance further, working on a bachelor's degree could be beneficial, as many companies prefer it for higher positions.
I began my HR career at a startup staffing agency, which gave me experience in sales, interviewing, and more. Now, I'm in staffing and we're expanding our team with more healthcare recruiters.
Start using your strong communication skills to enter the HR field and aim for bigger roles as you grow.
George Achin
VP, People-Talent-Culture
1
Answer
Tampa, Florida
Updated
George’s Answer
Yes, the advice in most answers is helpful. You'll need to start with an entry-level position, and then it's up to you to grow. After over thirty years of reviewing resumes, interviewing candidates, and making hiring decisions, I've learned a few things. Make sure your resume highlights your ability to finish projects, solve problems, and show that you're trustworthy. I always started interviews by asking, "Why do you want to be in HR?" The only answer that would disqualify someone right away was, "I'm really good with people." HR is much more than that, and you need to express that in an interview. Volunteering can help strengthen your early resume. Also, have some good stories to share.
Leigh Bond
Senior Executive Recruiter
3
Answers
Ellenwood, Georgia
Updated
Leigh’s Answer
Yes, you most certainly can. First determine which area of HR interests you the most. There are many facets to HR, such as talent acquisition, hr business partner, benefits, talent management, HRIS etc...Do your research on these areas to determine what interests you the most and move in that direction by obtaining a certification in this space and apply for entry level roles. Once you've obtained a position, find a mentor that can help move you forward. Wishing you the best!
Carly Kane
Talent Acquisition
5
Answers
Burlington, New Jersey
Updated
Carly’s Answer
You can definitely start a career in HR with just an associate’s degree, and it's a fantastic way to begin right after school! HR, or Human Resources, is all about helping a company run well by supporting its employees. With your degree, you can work as an HR Assistant or Recruiting Coordinator, where you'll help with hiring, paperwork, planning fun events, or answering employee questions. If you love working with people, staying organized, and solving problems, HR could be just right for you!
To improve your chances, consider earning a beginner-friendly certification like the PHR, which shows employers you're committed to HR even without a four-year degree. You can also take online courses, join clubs, or intern at a local business to gain real-world experience. The best part is you can start in HR and decide later if you want to pursue a bachelor’s degree. It's a flexible, people-focused career path with many growth opportunities. So yes, HR is totally within your reach!
To improve your chances, consider earning a beginner-friendly certification like the PHR, which shows employers you're committed to HR even without a four-year degree. You can also take online courses, join clubs, or intern at a local business to gain real-world experience. The best part is you can start in HR and decide later if you want to pursue a bachelor’s degree. It's a flexible, people-focused career path with many growth opportunities. So yes, HR is totally within your reach!
Rumyana Kaludova
Human Resources: Global Recruiting Business Partner
7
Answers
Sofia, Bulgaria
Updated
Rumyana’s Answer
Hello Katelyn,
Yes, you can definitely pursue a career in HR, though it may depend on your location, the type of HR role you want, and sometimes the industry. Let me share my journey to show you it's possible. I'm an HR professional from Bulgaria with over 10 years of international recruiting experience, and I haven't had any formal HR education yet.
I studied International Economics for my Bachelor's and International Business for my Master's. During my studies, I joined a student exchange program that took me to the USA for a summer. After returning and graduating, I worked as a Students' Exchange Program Coordinator, where I conducted interviews and English checks for students. This role had both sales and recruitment aspects. Eventually, I wanted more challenges, so I pursued my Master's degree while working. After graduating, I found an internship in IT recruitment in the UK, even though I knew nothing about IT at first. My previous experience helped me succeed, and I learned a lot during my six months there.
I then returned to Bulgaria and got a job in an international auditing firm as an Executive Search Recruitment Assistant Advisor, thanks to my IT recruitment internship. Later, I joined HP Inc. as an internal recruiter, where I've been for eight years and have been promoted several times.
My story shows that once you're in the corporate world, your experience often matters more than your education. Every experience builds on the last, preparing you for bigger steps. HR education is more crucial for leadership roles (such as HR Manager or HR Director), and you can always pursue those qualifications later in your career.
To start in HR, focus on internships in HR administration or recruitment, or try volunteering to develop people skills.
I hope this helps, and I wish you the best of luck!
Rumyana
Yes, you can definitely pursue a career in HR, though it may depend on your location, the type of HR role you want, and sometimes the industry. Let me share my journey to show you it's possible. I'm an HR professional from Bulgaria with over 10 years of international recruiting experience, and I haven't had any formal HR education yet.
I studied International Economics for my Bachelor's and International Business for my Master's. During my studies, I joined a student exchange program that took me to the USA for a summer. After returning and graduating, I worked as a Students' Exchange Program Coordinator, where I conducted interviews and English checks for students. This role had both sales and recruitment aspects. Eventually, I wanted more challenges, so I pursued my Master's degree while working. After graduating, I found an internship in IT recruitment in the UK, even though I knew nothing about IT at first. My previous experience helped me succeed, and I learned a lot during my six months there.
I then returned to Bulgaria and got a job in an international auditing firm as an Executive Search Recruitment Assistant Advisor, thanks to my IT recruitment internship. Later, I joined HP Inc. as an internal recruiter, where I've been for eight years and have been promoted several times.
My story shows that once you're in the corporate world, your experience often matters more than your education. Every experience builds on the last, preparing you for bigger steps. HR education is more crucial for leadership roles (such as HR Manager or HR Director), and you can always pursue those qualifications later in your career.
To start in HR, focus on internships in HR administration or recruitment, or try volunteering to develop people skills.
I hope this helps, and I wish you the best of luck!
Rumyana
Denise Legaspi Patko
Human Resources Business Partner
1
Answer
Ladera Ranch, California
Updated
Denise’s Answer
Hi Katelyn, you can definitely start a career in HR with your AA degree. It's great to keep learning, though, as there are many upper-division courses that can really help in your job. Human Resources is always changing, and there are many exciting areas you might love, like HR Generalist, Payroll, Recruiting, Learning and Development, Employee Relations, Security, and HR Tech. I began as an HR Generalist and worked my way up to HR Management and then VP of Human Resources. Now, I'm an HRBP at Xerox. Being a generalist helped me a lot in understanding how to support the business better. If school isn't your thing, you can also consider HR Certifications like PHR, SPHR, or a CA HR Certification. There's a strong HR network called PIHRA in California, offering monthly meetings and networking for students like you. Best of luck on your HR journey, Katelyn. Feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn if you have more questions about HR.
Seek a local HR Network such as PIHRA.
Look into additional HR courses you would be interested in such as labor relations, management, employee relations.
Denise recommends the following next steps:
Molly Doran
Program Manager
5
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Molly’s Answer
Hi Katelyn, absolutely! Many skills from different majors and jobs can be useful, especially in business and HR. You can take online courses to boost your HR skills, showing hiring managers your passion and commitment to joining the HR field. I hope this helps, and good luck!
Sivu Suppiah Ramu
Talent Mobility
4
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Sivu’s Answer
Definitely! I suggest focusing on getting an aPHR certification, since you don't yet qualify for the SHRM-CP certification. The aPHR is designed for those new to HR and helps you build a strong foundation in the field. It can also make it easier to find an entry-level HR job.
Liz Wood
5
Answers
Bradenton, Florida
Updated
Liz’s Answer
Many organizations are happy to hire people with an Associate's degree. If you think it's right for you and want to keep growing in your career, you can take more college courses in your area of interest. You can also take the PHR or SPHR exams to earn a credential. This shows that you are committed and trustworthy in your field.
Ali Lamers, SHRM-CP
Human Resources Manager
3
Answers
Cincinnati, Ohio
Updated
Ali’s Answer
Hello! Starting your career in HR with an Associate's Degree is a great idea. You can find entry-level administrative jobs and explore different areas of HR to see what interests you most. Take every chance to learn and improve your soft skills like communication and empathy. Don't hesitate to share your goals with others, as you never know when a new opportunity might appear!
Jamie Harrison
Consulting
2
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Jamie’s Answer
Yes absolutely! Many HR departments are looking for administrative assistants or interns. I was hired as an intern into an HR department before I had completed my bachelor's degree and it was a very rewarding experience. The CHRO was very supportive of me completing classes while I worked at the company.
Cung Nguyen
59
Answers
Updated
Cung’s Answer
Yes, most companies have many roles like assistant, entry-level, and part-time positions in HR. To advance in an HR career, it's important to get at least a Bachelor's degree. If you're already working, your company might help pay for your education, so it's worth checking. Congratulations on earning your Associate degree! Your next step is to aim for a Bachelor's and, if possible, a Master's degree. Keep learning and growing. The best top executives often start at lower levels, combining experience with education. Keep going, and good luck!
Christine Foglio
Manager Talent Acquisition
16
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Christine’s Answer
Yes, you can start a career in Human Resources (HR) with just an associate degree! Many entry-level HR roles, like HR assistant or coordinator, are open to people who have strong communication and organization skills—even if they’re just starting out. While some positions may eventually require more education or experience, an associate degree is a great first step. You can also grow your career by gaining experience on the job, earning certifications, or continuing your education later on. What matters most is your willingness to learn and work with people.
Seema Sawhney
Human Resources Representative
16
Answers
McLean, Virginia
Updated
Seema’s Answer
Yes, you can start your HR career with an Associate's degree if you have the passion for the field. You could start in an entry level administrative position at first, but if you want to move further, I would suggest continuing your studies in the HR field of your choice. Nowadays, there are so many areas you can specialize in. If you are not sure, it's great to get your foot in the door and explore all of the area in the Human Resources field. It's very satisfying to support the employees of your organization so they can focus on the job they are hired to do!
Christy Cotter
Resource Manager
2
Answers
Orlando, Florida
Updated
Christy’s Answer
Hi, yes you definitely can work in HR with an Associates degree. The more years of experience you obtain, the more likely for growth if you stick in HR. If you don't intend to go back to school for a 4 year degree you may want to look into HR certifications. Some companies even offer to pay for certifications for you. You don't always have to start in HR though, you can get into a company and work your way to that department. As long as company's see that you are a hard worker, dedicated, honest, kind, trust worthy and willing to learn and always help teammates you will grow!
Tiana Haddad
10
Answers
Kissimmee, Florida
Updated
Tiana’s Answer
Yes! You can work entry-level HR positions . While many HR roles prefer candidate's with bachelor degree . There are several opportunities with the Associates degree in HR such especially in administrative roles.
Good luck :)
Target Entry level HR Roles such as HR assistant ,Administrative assistant , Recruiting coordinator and more
Good luck :)
Tiana recommends the following next steps:
Ashli Crawford
Private Equity Growth
4
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Ashli’s Answer
Absolutely! My husband works as an HRIS Analyst for a major player with a High School Diploma. Start with an entry-level position and work your way through the ranks or take the risk and apply for the positions you want. Always remember, people can only tell you yes or no; but someday, the right one will tell you Yes. Never measure your ability to perform a job by the degree you hold. In my opinion, a degree pretty much says, you're great at taking tests and you have a great memory (I have a degree). Your ability to perform a job comes from real-world experience. Start researching, update your resume, expand your network, and apply for the jobs in HR you desire to have.