If you are ready to start your HR studies but unsure what to expect or whether you can manage your work, life, and academics, then you are in the right place!
Your studies can become more manageable with the right tools, time management, and support systems.
In this article, we will look at a Higher Certificate in Human Resource Management, tips to manage your studies, the types of jobs you can get with this qualification, and more.
What is a Higher Certificate in Human Resource Management?
A Higher Certificate in Human Resource Management is an entry-level, one-year qualification designed to provide you with the fundamental skills of HR.
This course is ideal for South African students who want to explore the lucrative world of human resource management and familiarise themselves with best practices.
Depending on the higher education institution you choose, you may have the following curriculum:
- Introduction to Human Resource Management
- Recruitment and Selection
- Employee Relations
- Performance Management
- Training and Development
- Compensation and Benefits
- HR Information Systems
- Labor Law
You can study this course full-time or through distance learning at REGENT Business School for more flexibility.
There are several benefits to studying this course, including, but not limited to, the following:
- Provides you with a comprehensive introduction to HR practices
- Gives you the knowledge and skills necessary to advance your career to higher-paying HR positions
- Teaches you all the practical skills you need through hands-on training in the form of internships
- Creates a pathway for you to further your studies, as you will have the necessary entry requirements for some more advanced programmes after obtaining your certificate
How do you manage your HR studies, whether you are employed full-time or not?
Managing your HR studies at the same time as being employed can be challenging. It requires careful planning and organisation to create an excellent work-study-life balance. Here are some tips to manage your studies while fully employed or not.
Better time management
If you are a full-time employee, you must create a study schedule around your work hours and prioritise tasks so you know what needs to be done first. You can also use productivity techniques such as the Pomodoro Technique to help you complete more activities in less time.
If you are unemployed, managing your studies becomes much easier since you have more time. However, you need to establish a daily study routine and balance your studies and leisure time so you do not get burnt out.
Leverage support systems
Employees should communicate with their bosses for more flexible work arrangements if possible. This will give you more freedom to schedule times for studies during different hours of the day. You can also join study groups for more support.
Unemployed students can also seek help from study groups or their friends and family to help keep them accountable.
Use technology and online resources
Whether you are employed or unemployed during your studies, you must use technology and online learning platforms to help you. This includes technology to help you plan your schedule and productivity apps, such as time-blocking tools.
Effective study techniques
Studying becomes more accessible and time-efficient when you use learning approaches that suit your learning style. For example, if you are a visual learner, consider using brain diagrams and videos to help you learn quickly.
Can I get a job with a certificate in Human Resource Management?
You can absolutely get a job with a Higher Certificate in Human Resource Management! This course provides you with the practical skills and knowledge you need to enter entry-level HR positions, including, but not limited to, the following:
- HR Assistants are responsible for supporting managers with their daily tasks. As an assistant, you will assist with recruitment, create job listings, and schedule candidate interviews.
- Training and Development Assistants help managers coordinate training sessions and development programmes. They also create, maintain, and implement training materials.
- Payroll Administrators are responsible for assisting in processing payments and maintaining accurate records. In this position, you must ensure compliance with relevant labour laws and business policies.
Best courses in human resource management
If you are looking for a more flexible HR course to help you manage your studies and work, you should consider enrolling in a distance learning programme.
REGENT allows you to pursue your HR Higher Certificate through distance learning, meaning you will not have to travel to classes regularly. Instead, you can learn online and only attend classes when they are held in person.
Learn more about our Higher Certificate in Human Resource Management here.
Also, if you are looking for a more advanced degree that can open the door to more career opportunities, you can consider studying a BCom in Human Resource Management instead.
FAQ
Can I study for a Higher Certificate in HR and work full-time?
You can study for an HC in Human Resource Management and work full-time, especially if you enrol in a distance learning course. There are several tips you can use to manage work and studies, including leveraging your time better and using support systems and productivity apps.
Which is better, contact learning or distance learning?
The choice between contact and distance learning depends on several factors, including time availability, budget, and needs. Contact learning is often better for individuals with more time and who want additional in-person support. On the other hand, distance learning is better for employed individuals with limited time and a lower budget.
Study a Higher Certificate in Human Resource Management with REGENT
Proper time management and support systems can help you balance work and studies while pursuing a higher certificate in Human Resources.
REGENT’s distance learning option makes your studies much more flexible and manageable, regardless of your other life or work commitments. Learn more about our HC in Human Resource Management here.