The Bachelor of Human Resources and Labour Relations at Athabasca University is an online, multidisciplinary program designed to equip trade unionists, managers, and HR specialists with a comprehensive understanding of employment relations in their social, legal, political, and economic contexts.
38
Average age
100%
Employment rate
$72k
Median income
90%
Student satisfaction
Source: 2023 AU institutional data and 2022 Graduate Outcomes Survey (GOS)
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About Bachelor of Human Resources and Labour Relations
The Bachelor of Human Resources and Labour Relations looks at employment relations in social, legal, political, and economic contexts. It addresses all aspects of:
human resource management
labour relations
human resource development
This program will be of interest to:
trade unionists
managers
human resource specialists
Admission requirements
There are no formal admission requirements for this program. All you need is to be 16 or older. You can enrol anytime and start right away, regardless of your previous education.
Program details
Overview
In today's work climate, understanding the nuances of employment relations is invaluable. Whether you're negotiating a new labour contract, managing a team, or simply looking to improve workplace culture, the skills you'll develop can be applied in real-world scenarios right away. Plus, with Athabasca University's flexible, online course format, you can study these important topics while keeping up with your job, family commitments, or travel plans.
If you want to better understand labour relations and human resource matters in your own workplace, or if you are interested in a career in the field, the Bachelor of Human Resources and Labour Relations is for you.
Routes and options
Athabasca University's Bachelor of Human Resources and Labour Relations is a 3-year online degree program. If you have a related post-secondary diploma, you can take the shorter post-diploma route. There are no set start dates - you can enrol at any time and register for courses right away.
Post-diploma route
If you have a:
2-year diploma in business administration, you may receive up to 45 credits toward the 90-credit degree
3-year diploma in business administration, you may receive up to 60 credits toward the degree
2-year non-business administration diploma, you may receive up to 30 credits toward the degree
Chartered Professionals in Human Resources accredited stream
This Bachelor of Human Resources and Labour Relations program is accredited with Chartered Professionals in Human Resources Alberta, which provides graduates who maintain an average GPA of 2.7 or higher and complete a specific set of courses exemption from writing the National Knowledge Exam.
Finish this program in as little as 1 year (post-diploma route) to 3 years (degree route) of full-time study, or work at your own pace and take as long as you need. There is no time limit for completion. The program may be completed faster if transfer credit is applied toward your degree.
How to apply
You can apply to AU online, anytime. Once you’ve completed the online application form and paid the one-time general application fee (and transfer credit evaluation fee, if applicable), you’re officially an AU student and can start registering in courses.
If you don't qualify for the post-diploma route, you can still get credit for courses at other institutions, or life experience. However, you must complete a minimum of 24 credits at AU.
If you already hold the Canadian Chartered Professionals in Human Resources (CPHR) designation, you may receive up to 6 credits toward your degree. If you’re interested in pursuing a CPHR, many of our courses fulfill the requirements.
Request and send your transcripts if you want us to consider your previous post-secondary education for transfer credit.
Once you have paid the initial application fee, tuition is pay-as-you-go for each course registration. Course fees vary depending on your location and other factors.
Estimated program costs are available in the Calendar.
Financial aid and awards
We're dedicated to supporting your academic goals and committed to helping you overcome financial barriers by providing many funding and award options.
It's not just about hiring and firing; it's about understanding the bigger picture of how employment works in various settings. With courses that explore the social, legal, political, and economic aspects of employment, you'll be well-equipped to navigate the complexities of modern workplaces.
To complete the program you will need to fulfill all the general requirements of the Bachelor of Human Resources and Labour Relations.
Our program course plans can give you an idea of what courses you need to finish this program, and how to plan the order you'll take them in. If you're feeling stuck, our academic advisors can help.
Chartered Professionals in Human Resources accredited stream
If you wish to be exempt from the National Knowledge Exam upon completion of your program, your 90 credits need to include the following courses, all of which fit into your core and elective requirements.
Courses to explore
Below are some of the courses that our students take in this program. Please consult an advisor to confirm any course planning, as some of these courses may not apply to you.
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Focus areas
Career options
In the Bachelor of Human Resources and Labour Relations program at Athabasca University, you'll engage in a diverse range of courses that explore the multifaceted aspects of employment, from legal frameworks and social dynamics to economic influences and political contexts.
Possible careers may include:
human resources manager
union representative
mediator/conciliator
recruitment officer
employment counsellor
convention organizer
human resources research officer
corporate trainer
employment and placement manager
labour relations manager
training and development manager
policy development
customs officer
Resources and links
Additional information that you need to know about AU and this program.