How to Become a Human Resource Analyst

In order to become a human resource analyst, you will need to combine a bachelor’s degree with the development of analytical skills and capabilities. In addition, you can fast-track your success by participating in an internship program and exploring networking opportunities. 

Step One: Get a Bachelor’s Degree 

If you have not already begun to earn a bachelor’s degree, begin now to research your options in terms of universities and colleges. There are a number of well-known and well-respected institutions of higher education which offer both on-campus and online degrees. They key is to make sure the college is accredited. There are online programs which offer degrees, however without accreditation, the degree will not effectively help you to become a human resource analyst. If you cannot financially afford to attend a four-year college or university, consider attending a community college to complete the universal general education requirements. Do your due diligence, and make sure the units from the community or junior college will be accepted or transferable at the universities you are considering for your final and degree-granting years. 

Here are the various preferred degrees which you should aspire to eventually being granted:

1. Bachelor’s Degree in Data Analytics or Statistics Combined with Human Resources

The ideal degree(s) would be to either major in human resources and minor in data analytics. If this combination is not offered, consider double majoring (doing the upper-class coursework for two separate degrees) combining a BA in Human Resources with a BA in Analytics or Statistics. Note that with the following degrees, the same will be held true—either a dual major or a major/minor situation is ideal. Always try and combine your degree with one in human resources. 

2. Bachelor’s Degree in Management Information Systems (MIS) with Human Resources

The management information systems degree will combine coursework in business and technology, which is optimal for the skills you will need in the areas of data analysis, database management, and information systems. Programs such as this will also prepare you for working with HR technology platforms such as HRIS (Human Resource Information Systems). 

3. Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Specialty in Human Resources Management 

The advantages of combining a BA in Business Administration with Human Resources Management are your options for employment will be basically supercharged. The business administration aspect will provide you with a broad understanding of business principles and practices such as management, finance, marketing, business strategy and business operations. Typically, colleges will offer the option of specializing within the business administration degree program to specialize. Employers will feel as if they are getting someone who is well-rounded in both a macro approach to business, and a micro approach to human resource management.   

4. Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources Management

It goes without saying that a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resource Management will afford you all the skills and knowledge connected to the field of human resources. The programs associated with this BA will prepare you for the real world of being in the human resource department by focusing on topics such as organizational behavior, employment law, recruitment and candidate selection, compensation and benefits, training of employees, employee development, as well as strategic HR management. Although an HR analyst will deal more closely with data than most human resource positions, having a foundation in the basics will assist you in comprehending the big picture necessary for effective analysis. One thing to consider–finding a program which will allow you to get the HR degree, but still allow you to study and become proficient in courses which cover the logistics of data analysis. 

Step Two: Develop Skills and Capabilities in Specialized Areas

As a human resource analyst, you will be dealing with the following—consider beginning now to hone your skills in these areas. You can never be too prepared!

1. Data Collection

You will be collecting data from various departments within the workplace regarding employee records, performance evaluations, recruitment metrics, payroll and miscellaneous employment related surveys and polls. Learn how to collect data by taking free online courses offered by HR-based websites. 

2. Analysis of the Data Collected

Once you collect the various forms of data involved in your analysis, you will need to understand how to process and analyze it. Two forms of analysis are forecasting analytics and predictive analytics. Begin today to delve into a study of platforms used specifically within human resource analytics, such as Workday Adaptive Planning, Visier, Oracle HCM Cloud, SAP SuccessFactors, IBM Watson Talent Insights, Cornerstone OnDemand, Anaplan and Predictive Index.

3. Learn the Art of Reporting and Presentation

Once you have collected and analyzed your data, as a human resource analyst you will need to present your findings. Learn how to write reports and present them both verbally and in writing. Communication is key in this skillset category, so make sure you are able to take your findings and present them effectively to those seeking the information. 

Step Three: Learn Via Internships and Networking

Experience is key in becoming a successful human resource analyst. The best and most desirable way to gain experience is through interning with a reputable company. Internships also lead to jobs and are typically geared for those still working on their bachelor’s degree. The quickest way to find internships is by joining a trade association or professional organization (most all have student memberships). These organizations are also the lifeblood of the industry and will keep you in the loop as to all things HR. They offer everything from free classes to mentoring programs. Here are the main organizations you will want to research and a brief description of what they do in their own words. 

1. Analytics and Data Science Society (ADSS)

“ADSS is a professional organization dedicated to promoting data-driven decision-making across various industries, including HR analytics. We offer events, webinars, and resources specifically focused on data analysis, predictive modeling, and data visualization in HR.”

2. International Association for Human Resource Information Management (IHRIM)

   “IHRIM focuses on HR technology and information management, making it particularly relevant for HR analysts working with HRIS and data analytics. We offer conferences, webinars, publications, and networking opportunities for HR professionals interested in technology and data-driven HR practices.”

3. Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM)

   “SHRM is one of the largest HR associations globally, offering resources, networking events, conferences, and professional development opportunities. We offer the SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) and SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) certifications, which validate HR competency and expertise.”

Job Outlook For Human Resource Analyst

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (https://www.bls.gov/), Human Resource Analysts have extremely promising opportunities for the time period spanning 2022-2032. The field is growing by 10% per year, which is much faster than the 6% average growth rate. Government experts predict that each year over 92,900 openings will become available (between 2022-2032), due to replacing workers who leave the profession, leave the work force and/or retire. Over the ten-year time span (2022-2032) it is projected that a total of 95,700 new positions will be created. In 2022 there were 987,600 individuals working as human resource analysts. The median pay per year was $95,290, while the median hourly wage was $45.81. (As a reminder, the “median” amount is not an average, it is the middle value of a dataset. For the U.S. BLS definition go to: https://www.bls.gov/cps/definitions.htm#medianearnings) .

By pursuing your education, developing special skills and capabilities, participating in an internship program and exploring networking opportunities, you will be on your way to a bright future as a human resource analyst.