Rankings / Online
Best Online Human Resources Programs
Find Your Program
Explore Accredited Programs in This Field
Find accredited programs in this field accepting applicants.
✓ Accredited programs ✓ 100% free ✓ No obligation
As more students seek flexible learning options, online human resources programs have become a popular choice. These programs cater to those looking to enter or advance in the HR field without the need to relocate or disrupt their current jobs. The average earnings for graduates of these programs stand at $63,331, reflecting the potential for a solid return on investment.
What sets the top programs apart is their ability to combine strong graduation rates with manageable debt levels and promising post-graduation earnings. As you review the list below, pay attention to the balance between these factors. For instance, a high graduation rate may indicate better support for students, while lower debt can make a significant difference in financial stability after graduation.
Consider the University of Florida-Online, which boasts impressive earnings of $71,588 and an 81% graduation rate. In contrast, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide has high earnings of $84,131, but with a troubling graduation rate of just 21%. This stark difference highlights the importance of not just chasing the highest salary, but also ensuring a solid educational foundation that supports timely graduation.
How We Ranked
Online Human Resources programs ranked by outcomes, value, and program concentration
Read our full methodology →Key Findings
University of Florida-Online graduates earn $71,588 on average.
Embry-Riddle's graduation rate is only 21%, despite higher potential earnings.
The average debt for graduates from the University of Arkansas Grantham is $21,956.
Western Governors University has a graduation rate of just 48%, which is lower than the average of 37% for the group.
Quick Numbers
Earnings Outcomes
What graduates earn 10 years after enrolling. Data from College Scorecard.
Distribution of Median Earnings
Earnings vs. Net Price
Top-left = best value. Top-ranked schools are highlighted.
Completion & Access
Graduation rates and who gets in. Data from College Scorecard & IPEDS.
Graduation Rates
Pell Grant Rate vs. Graduation Rate
Right = more low-income students. Higher = more graduate.
Cost & Debt
What families actually pay and what students owe. Data from College Scorecard.
Median Debt at Graduation
Where These Schools Are Located
Rank Overview
All ranked schools. Bar length shows earnings relative to the top school.
| # | School | Earnings | Grad Rate | Net Price | Debt | Pell % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | University of Florida-Online Gainesville, FL | $72K | 81% | $5K | $15K | 22% |
| #2 | Western Governors University Salt Lake City, UT | $61K | 48% | $13K | $11K | 39% |
| #3 | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical … Daytona Beach, FL | $84K | 21% | $19K | $24K | 26% |
| #4 | University of New Hampshir… Manchester, NH | $66K | 22% | $11K | $27K | 32% |
| #5 | University of Arkansas Gra… LIttle Rock, AR | $63K | 32% | $8K | $22K | 72% |
| #6 | Arizona State University D… Scottsdale, AZ | $63K | 29% | — | $20K | 40% |
| #7 | University of Maryland Glo… Adelphi, MD | $65K | 31% | $22K | $21K | 29% |
| #8 | Touro University Worldwide Los Alamitos, CA | $41K | 36% | $19K | $25K | 51% |
| #9 | Northwest University-Cente… Kirkland, WA | $55K | 40% | $36K | $21K | 18% |
| #10 | Los Angeles Pacific Univer… San Dimas, CA | — | 29% | $23K | $19K | 52% |
| #11 | University of the People Pasadena, CA | — | 35% | — | — | 0% |
Build your ranking
Drag a pillar — schools re-rank live.
The podium
Sponsored
Featured Programs From Accredited Schools
Accredited schools accepting applicants in this field.
Full rankings
With a graduation rate of 81%, the University of Florida-Online demonstrates a strong commitment to student success. The median earnings of graduates at 10 years post-graduation reach $71,588, indicating that many find rewarding careers after completing their degrees. The 61% acceptance rate suggests that a wide range of students can apply and be considered for admission. This mix of accessibility and outcome could be appealing for those looking for a solid return on their educational investment.
Pillar breakdown
With a student population of over 155,000, Western Governors University prioritizes flexibility and accessibility in higher education. Designed for working adults, the university's online format allows students to learn at their own pace, fitting education into busy lives. Despite a graduation rate of 48%, many students appreciate the competency-based learning model that emphasizes skill mastery over class attendance, appealing to those who thrive in a self-directed learning environment.
Pillar breakdown
Daytona Beach, FL · 58% accepted · $18,725 net
With median earnings of $84,131 after ten years, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide is an appealing choice for those interested in aviation and aerospace fields. The university's focus on technical education and career readiness may attract students who are passionate about these industries. However, a graduation rate of just 21% raises questions about the support and resources available to students as they navigate their academic journey.
Pillar breakdown
Manchester, NH · $10,864 net
The University of New Hampshire College of Professional Studies Online offers a unique opportunity for adult learners and non-traditional students to advance their careers. Despite a low graduation rate of 22%, the university supports students with a focus on professional development. The median earnings of $66,479 for graduates suggest that those who complete their programs are likely to find rewarding jobs in their fields, although the path to graduation may be challenging for many.
Pillar breakdown
With a median earnings figure of $63,496 for graduates ten years post-enrollment, the University of Arkansas Grantham provides a solid return on investment for its students. The campus in Little Rock supports a diverse student body of 2,833, with 72% of students receiving Pell Grants, reflecting its commitment to making education accessible for those from low-income backgrounds.
Pillar breakdown
Arizona State University Digital Immersion, located in Scottsdale, is home to a large student population of 53,782. With a graduation rate of 29%, the school may seem challenging, but it also presents a unique opportunity for self-motivated learners seeking flexibility in their education. The acceptance rate of 67% indicates that there's room for a wide range of students to join this dynamic community.
Pillar breakdown
The University of Maryland Global Campus serves a large, diverse student body of 49,664, making it an attractive option for students looking for flexibility in their studies. With a graduation rate of 31%, the university offers various resources to help students persist and succeed, especially those balancing work and family commitments. The university's location in Adelphi supports a vibrant community for students seeking a mix of online and on-campus experiences.
Pillar breakdown
Touro University Worldwide, a private nonprofit institution in Los Alamitos, serves a smaller community of 454 students, appealing to those looking for more personalized attention in their education. The school reports a graduation rate of 36%, which, while modest, highlights a supportive environment where students can thrive. The smaller class sizes often mean more interaction with faculty, which can be crucial for student success.
Pillar breakdown
Kirkland, WA · $35,671 net
Located in Kirkland, Washington, Northwest University has a tight-knit community of about 405 students, emphasizing personalized education and individual support. With a 40% graduation rate, students here can expect tailored resources that help them navigate their academic journey in a private nonprofit setting.
Pillar breakdown
In sunny San Dimas, California, Los Angeles Pacific University offers a unique experience to its 1,483 students, with a focus on community and personal growth. Though the graduation rate sits at 29%, the vibrant campus life and support structures are designed to engage students and encourage persistence in their studies.
Pillar breakdown
University of the People, based in Pasadena, California, is an online institution that serves a large community of 22,688 students. This school prioritizes access to education and offers a tuition-free model, making it a distinctive option for those looking for flexibility in their studies while balancing work or family commitments.
Pillar breakdown
Looking at the data, there's a notable pattern in the earnings and graduation rates. The University of Florida-Online stands out with an earnings potential of $71,588 and a graduation rate of 81%. In comparison, Western Governors University has lower earnings at $60,615 and a graduation rate of only 48%. This suggests that while both programs provide opportunities, the University of Florida-Online might offer a more supportive environment leading to better outcomes.
After reviewing the options available, it's essential to align your choices with personal priorities. Are you looking for a program with strong support and higher graduation rates, or is immediate earning potential your main concern? Consider factors like location, program fit, and financial situation as you weigh these programs. Your decision should reflect what matters most to you in your educational journey.
Ultimately, the path from college to a stable career is influenced by many factors. Graduates from these online programs can expect varying outcomes based on their choices. For one family, selecting a program with a robust graduation rate and lower debt could mean financial stability down the road. The decision they make today will shape their future, underscoring the importance of carefully evaluating their options.
Data Sources
U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard
Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card
Social Capital Atlas
Times Higher Education World Rankings
NCES IPEDS
Sources & Citations
David Krug
Co-Founder, CollegeRanker
David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.
Related Rankings