Application deadline
Credits and costs
Learn about Labor Relations and Human Resources
Penn State's Undergraduate Certificate in Labor and Human Resources examines the relationship between employers and employees in the context of labor/management and human resources policies and practices. It examines the law and policies surrounding these critical workplace subjects. This program can help you understand employment relationships in the workplace, as well as how to recognize and resolve employment issues. You can customize your course work by choosing from a variety of electives.
Why an Online Certificate at Penn State?
Comprehensive course work — The knowledge you gain in this program can immediately increase your understanding of workplace labor and human resource issues from the employee, labor union, and employer perspectives. Introductory course work includes the analysis of the employment relationship and the interrelated interests of management, workers, unions, and the public, as well as an examination of basic legal principles underlying the employment relationship.
Broaden your experience — Take 6 credits of electives in an area of your choice; some options include labor force issues of racial and gender inequality, labor relations in the public sector, or leadership in work settings. This certificate program can be used as an important first step in your education or as a recognized stand-alone credential. If you are interested in continuing your education, you can work with an academic adviser to determine how some of the credits earned in this certificate may be applied toward a degree, such as the Bachelor of Arts in Labor and Employment Relations. If you already have a degree, this certificate program is an excellent complement; it can provide you with the human resource fundamentals valued in virtually any industry.
Who Should Apply?
If you aspire to work in labor, human resources, or a related field, the certificate in Labor and Human Resources can help you acquire a foundation in a range of subjects, including employment law, collective bargaining, and human resource management, as well as issues with workplace ethics.
The Penn State Difference
In this program, you will have the opportunity to study with highly regarded faculty from Penn State's College of the Liberal Arts, one of the premier institutions in the world to study and work in the liberal arts disciplines.
Courses
Applications are now being accepted for Penn State’s Undergraduate Certificate in Labor and Human Resources. This certificate provides students with foundational information regarding labor/management and human resources policies and practices. The courses are taught by Penn State faculty using Penn State World Campus’ online learning platform. Upon your successful completion of the program, Penn State will award you a Certificate of Academic Accomplishment.
Required Courses (6 credits)
Elective Courses (select 6 credits)
Course Availability
If you're ready to see when your courses will be offered, visit our public LionPATH course search (opens in new window) to start planning ahead.
Costs and Financial Aid
Undergraduate Tuition
Undergraduate tuition is calculated based on the number of credits for which you register and the number of total credits you have accrued at or transferred to Penn State.
Tuition is due shortly after each semester begins and rates are assessed every semester of enrollment.
| How many credits do you plan to take per semester? | If you have 59 or fewer credits | If you have 60 or more credits |
|---|---|---|
| 11 or fewer | $626 per credit | $671 per credit |
| 12–19 | $7,602 per semester | $8,206 per semester |
Undergraduate students taking more than 19 credits will be charged the flat tuition rate plus the regular per credit hour rate for each credit above 19.
| How many credits do you plan to take per semester? | If you have 59 or fewer credits | If you have 60 or more credits |
|---|---|---|
| 11 or fewer | $632 per credit | $678 per credit |
| 12–19 | $7,678 per semester | $8,288 per semester |
Undergraduate students taking more than 19 credits will be charged the flat tuition rate plus the regular per credit hour rate for each credit above 19.
Financial Aid and Military Benefits
Some students may qualify for financial aid. Take the time to research financial aid, scholarships, and payment options as you prepare to apply. Military service members, veterans, and their spouses or dependents should explore these potential military education benefits and financial aid opportunities, as well.
Paying for Your Certificate
Students pursuing a certificate are considered "nondegree," a status that is not eligible for federal student aid, including the Federal Direct Stafford Loan program. A private alternative loan may be an option to consider.
Additionally, Penn State offers many ways to pay for your education, including an installment plan and third-party payments. Penn State World Campus also offers an Employer Reimbursement and Tuition Deferment Plan. Learn more about the options for paying for your education.
Students pursuing a degree and meeting all other eligibility requirements may qualify for financial aid.
How to Apply
Deadlines and Important Dates
All supporting materials should be sent following the submission of your application.
For current and future course registration deadlines, visit the Registrar's website to view the academic calendar by semester.
Admissions Help
If you have questions about the admissions process, email
[email protected]
or call 814-865-1146.
Admission Requirements
To apply for this program, you must be a high school graduate, or have completed your GED.
Technical Requirements
Review the technical requirements for this program.
Get the resources you need to make informed decisions about your education. Request information on this program and other programs of interest by completing this form.
Start or Advance Your Career
Start or Advance Your Career
You can use the knowledge gained from this program and the support of Penn State career resources to pursue careers in a variety of fields, depending on your goals.
A Head Start toward a Degree
A Head Start toward a Degree
Not only can this program help create opportunities in your career, it can also give you a solid head start toward a full Penn State degree.
Contact Us
For questions about admissions and applications, please contact World Campus Central:
World Campus Central
Phone: 814-865-1146
[email protected]