Human Resource Management Major

 

Human Resource Management Major

The human resource management (HRM) sequence emphasizes effective, leading-edge human resources management in all organizational settings.

The purpose of the sequence is to provide students with skills and knowledge in human resource management consistent with the current needs of organizations. Students electing this sequence will acquire specific, in-depth skills necessary to assist organizations in the effective utilization of employee skills and talents.

Careers

The field of human resources management is growing in importance as organizations of all kinds focus increasing attention on the role of individuals and groups in organization culture and performance. People issues are critical to the production of quality goods and services, customer satisfaction, and long-term organizational viability. Graduates are employed as human resource specialists, human resource generalists, benefits administrators, compensation analysts, employee relations specialists, corporate recruiters, personnel directors, personnel assistants, trainers, quality control specialists, human resource managers, and many other occupations. Visit the Society for Human Resource Management's Career Web site for more information related to HR careers.

Curriculum

First offered in 1992, the human resource management sequence is administered by the Department of Management and Quantitative Methods. Faculty members combine academic backgrounds with practical experience, and most courses are active, participative, and experiential. The Illinois State HRM sequence offers a number of specialized courses to prepare students for entry positions in personnel or human resources departments and to provide the broad background needed for long-term career success.

Students study compensation, employee and labor relations, recruitment and selection, performance evaluation, career management, strategic human resource planning, and human resource development. In addition, they acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively assist organizations in changing employee values, norms, and behaviors consistent with emerging or new organization cultures.

Internships

During the fall, spring or summer semesters, HRM majors may participate in the departmental internship program. As interns, students earn academic credit while working in organizations on a variety of assignments and projects.

Society for Human Resource Management

The Management and Quantitative Methods Department also sponsors a student chapter of the Society for Human Resource Management. The society is the leading voice of the human resource profession, representing the interests of more than 200,000 professional and student members from around the world. Student members get the opportunity to interact with peers and practitioners in the field, thereby expanding professional competence and knowledge.

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