Human resources is a dynamic field that requires professionals to constantly update their skills and knowledge. Whether you’re just starting your HR career or looking to enhance your existing skills, there are numerous free online certification programs available to help you stay ahead in the industry. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the top 25 free human resource certification programs that you can access online.
Which HR Certification Is Best for No Experience?
The “Associate Professional in Human Resources (aPHR)” credential is often regarded as the finest entry point for those with little to no experience in the subject of human resources. The HR Certification Institute (HRCI) offers an entry-level certification called the Associate Professional in Human Resources (aPHR) designation. It’s a great option for laying the groundwork because it covers the fundamentals of human resources. Even if you don’t have any experience in HR, this certification can help you stand out to potential employers and show them that you’re serious about a future in the sector. You may improve your resume and your chances of being hired by earning intermediate and advanced HR qualifications as your career progresses.
1. Diploma in HR (Alison Free Learning)
If you’re new to the HR industry, Alison Free Learning offers a Diploma in HR that covers the fundamentals of human resource responsibilities. This 8-10 hour course provides insights into various HR aspects, including employee termination and conflict resolution.
2. Free HR Course (Oxford Home Study)
The Free HR Course by Oxford Home Study is a flexible program that requires approximately 20 hours to complete. It covers leadership and management fundamentals within the HR department and has no time limits or due dates.
3. People and Organisations (MIT Open Courseware)
MIT Open Courseware offers the People and Organisations course, consisting of 25 sessions, each lasting about 1.5 hours. This course explores the historical relationships between businesses, communities, and management, providing a unique perspective on HR’s evolution.
4. Preparing to Manage (Coursera)
Coursera’s Preparing to Manage course focuses on both communication and management skills, with an 18-hour duration. It touches upon legal documentation and employee privacy and is suitable for HR professionals aiming to enhance their leadership abilities.
5. Managing Human Capital (Coursera)
This relatively short course on Coursera, Managing Human Capital, offers seven hours of content. It’s designed for those with minimal HR work experience and emphasizes workforce care and equal treatment.
6. HR Fundamentals (Future Learn)
Future Learn’s HR Fundamentals course spans five weeks, with three hours of weekly content. It’s ideal for both beginners and experienced professionals, offering valuable insights into HR strategies.
7. Organisational Behaviour (Coursera)
The Organisational Behaviour course on Coursera takes around 19 hours to complete and delves into employee behaviors in the workplace, equipping HR professionals with conflict resolution skills.
8. People Management (EDX)
EDX provides the People Management course, designed to enhance communication and teamwork skills. This six-week program includes approximately three hours of weekly content.
9. Building a Remote Workforce (BernieU)
For HR professionals looking to adapt to remote work environments, BernieU offers a course that covers online recruiting, performance management, and HR technologies. It consists of six classes, each taking about two hours to complete.
What Is the Easiest HR Course?
The perceived difficulty of a human resources training program will vary from one person to the next based on their unique experiences, interests, and expertise. However, the “aPHR” (Associate Professional in Human Resources) credential is often regarded as one of the most accessible entry-level HR programs. The aPHR, provided by HRCI, is an entry-level certification for human resources professionals. As a primer, it covers the groundwork of human resources in a way that’s easy to understand. Human resource (HR) principles may be learned with the help of several online courses and resources that break them down into their simplest forms. A person’s preferred learning style and long-term professional goals will determine the HR course that will be easiest for them.
Tips for Choosing an Online Course
When selecting an online course, consider the following tips:
- Identify Certification Fees: Some courses may advertise as free but require a small fee for certification. Verify if there are any certification costs associated with the course.
- Consider Career Goals: Tailor your choice to your HR career goals. For example, if you aim to become a recruiter, look for courses specific to HR recruitment.
- Check Reviews and Comments: Explore student reviews to gauge the trustworthiness of the training provider before enrolling.
- Consider Time Zones: Opt for courses offered by providers in a similar time zone to ensure timely support.
What Is the Lowest Level of HR Certification?
An “aPHR” (Associate Professional in Human Resources) credential is usually the entry-level HR qualification. The HR Certification Institute (HRCI) offers a certification called the Associate Professional in Human Resources (aPHR) to people who are new to the profession of HR and have little to no experience in the industry. It’s a stepping stone credential for people just beginning out in the human resources field. Those wishing to further their HR careers would benefit greatly from the aPHR certification, which covers core HR principles. It’s a great option for those just getting started in the area, and it may pave the way to more advanced HR credentials later on.
Benefits of Studying Online
Studying online offers several advantages, including:
1. Flexibility: Online courses often have minimal due dates and no time limits, allowing you to study at your own pace.
2. Cost-Effective Learning: Most online courses are budget-friendly compared to traditional degrees or certificates.
3. Variety: A wide range of online HR courses caters to professionals with different tasks and responsibilities within the HR field.
4. Interactive Learning: Many free online HR courses use interactive teaching methods, making learning engaging and effective.
Conclusion
In the ever-evolving field of human resources, continuous learning is essential. Free online HR certification programs provide an accessible way to stay updated and enhance your skills. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced HR professional, there’s a course that suits your needs. Keep growing and advancing in your HR career with these valuable resources.