Human Resources

Human Resources Core Concepts

Human Resource Core Concepts

Human Resources Core Concepts Course

Overview

The HR Core Concepts course offers a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental principles and practices of human resource management, equipping participants with the foundational knowledge to excel in HR roles. This course covers the essential functions of HR, including recruitment, compensation, employee relations, training and development, and compliance with employment and labor laws. Participants will explore the strategic role of HR in aligning workforce capabilities with organizational goals, fostering employee engagement, understanding behaviors, and driving business success. Through interactive lectures, case studies, and group discussions, learners will gain insights into the employee lifecycle, from onboarding to offboarding, and the policies that support a productive workplace. The course addresses key HR processes, such as job analysis, performance appraisals, and workforce planning, while introducing tools like HR information systems (HRIS) for efficient management.  This class starts with the history of HR and ends with a look at the emerging trends in artificial intelligence (AI).

This is the runway class to the USF CTPE Certificate in Human Resources.

  • HR history, structure, and common terms
  • The HR laws that impact the business
  • Hiring and interviewing legally and without bias
  • Rewarding and managing the talent
  • A bit on behaviors
  • Compliance with posters to laws, and to record-keeping
  • A primer on employee and labor relations
  • Why employee communication is more than the handbook
  • Offboarding, aka termination, is also covered!
  • Emerging Trends


Who Should Attend?

Designed for aspiring HR professionals, managers, and small business owners new to HR, the course emphasizes practical applications in diverse organizational settings. Participants will examine real-world HR challenges, such as managing workplace issues, resolving conflicts, and ensuring fair labor practices. The course also introduces emerging trends, including remote work policies, employee wellness initiatives, and the impact of technology on HR operations. Legal and ethical considerations, such as compliance with anti-discrimination laws and maintaining employee confidentiality, are woven throughout the curriculum to underscore HR’s role in fostering ethical workplaces. Group projects will simulate HR tasks, such as drafting job descriptions, interview questions, or developing employee handbook policies, while testing your ability to apply core concepts to practical scenarios. By the end of the course, participants will have a solid understanding of HR’s critical functions and be prepared to contribute to organizational success through effective people management. This course serves as a steppingstone for further specialization in areas like talent acquisition, HR analytics, or employment law, providing a versatile foundation for navigating the dynamic field of human resources in today’s global and digital workplace.  This is the runaway class for the USF CTPE HR certificate.


Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, learners will be able to:

  • Explain the core functions of HR and their alignment with organizational objectives.
  • Develop basic HR policies, such as job descriptions and employee handbooks, that comply with legal and ethical standards.
  • Apply recruitment and onboarding strategies to attract and integrate new employees effectively.
  • Analyze employee relations scenarios to resolve conflicts and promote a positive workplace culture.
  • Utilize HR tools like HRIS to streamline administrative processes and enhance workforce management.
  • Build critical thinking skills.


Instructor: Kelley Rexroad

Kelley Rexroad

Learn from renowned HR strategist with over 30 years of experience in HR and communications, . Kelley founded her HR consulting and career coaching firm in 2004 and has served as a Corporate Officer of HR and Communications for a NASDAQ firm. She holds a triple major BA, is a candidate for an MS in Applied Behavior Analysis, and has pursued advanced studies at Thunderbird School of Global Management and American University. Kelley is also a sought-after speaker, news contributor, published author, and .






Certification and Success

  • Credential: Earn a credential certifying your expertise and readiness to advance in your HR career.
  • HR Portfolio: Develop a comprehensive HR portfolio through a complimentary course, providing tangible proof of your HR skills.
  • Digital Badge: Pass the final exam with at least 80% and actively participate in classes and discussion boards to receive a digital badge.

Career Impact

  • Growing Field: HR is one of the fastest-growing fields in the U.S., with employment of HR managers projected to grow 7% by 2031.
  • Skill Development: Gain foundational HR skills, stay updated on HR laws, and boost your earning power.
  • Leadership: Develop skills to enhance employee retention and engagement, and become a better leader.


Join us at the Âé¶¹ÊÓÆµ to gain the essential HR skills and knowledge needed to succeed in today’s competitive economy. Enroll now and take the next step in your HR career!

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this course have any requirements? 

The HR Core Concepts course can be taken as a stand alone course, or used as the foundations class for the HR Management Certificate.

Does this course prepare me for the SHRM Exam?

The HR Core Concepts course does not prepare you to sit for the SHRM Exam. It is an overview of various areas of Human Resources.

Tuition & Funding Sources

As noncredit training programs, our courses are ineligible for traditional federally subsidized financial resources.

  • Possible funding through

We’re pleased to offer a 10% discount to USF alumni, USF faculty and staff, USF faculty and staff family members, USF students and veterans on the following courses and programs:

Human Resource Management Programs
K-12 Summer Camps
Process Improvement Programs
Project Management Programs*
*Excludes the already discounted PMP® Exam Preparation Course
Test Preparation Courses (SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT and LSAT)
How to Receive the Discount
The discount can be applied only at time of registration. Simply register for your course online and use one of the following discount codes during the checkout process:

USF Alumni Association Members: USFAAM
USF Faculty and Staff:* USFFS
USF Faculty and Staff Family Members: SUMMEROFUSF
USF Students: USFS
Veterans: USFVA
If you have questions or technical issues in applying a discount, call us at 813-974-0950.

* The discount is not valid for courses paid for by a USF Department. It is only valid for self-pay students.

 

Quick Details

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Connect With a Program Advisor

Kathy Barnes
Kathy Barnes, M.S.Ed.
813.974.8031

barnesk@usf.edu