Want to boost your HR skills without spending a dime? You’re in luck! The world of Human Resources is always changing, and staying up-to-date is key. Luckily, there are tons of fantastic, free online HR courses out there that even offer certificates to prove your newfound knowledge. This guide will explore some of the best options to help you level up your HR game!
Why Take Free Online HR Courses?
Before we dive into specific courses, let’s talk about why taking these courses is a smart move. First, they’re FREE! That’s a major plus, especially if you’re just starting out or want to explore different areas of HR without committing to expensive training. Second, many offer certificates upon completion. These certificates can be a great addition to your resume or LinkedIn profile, showing potential employers that you’re serious about HR and dedicated to learning.
Plus, online courses offer flexibility. You can learn at your own pace, fitting the coursework into your busy schedule. Whether you’re a seasoned HR professional looking to brush up on your skills or someone completely new to the field, these courses can provide valuable insights and practical knowledge. They can also help you determine which HR specialization might interest you the most, whether that’s recruitment, compensation and benefits, or employee relations.
Top Free Online HR Courses with Certificates
Alright, let’s get to the good stuff! Here are some of the best free online HR courses that offer certificates. Keep in mind that “free” can sometimes mean “free to audit” or “free with limited access.” Always double-check the course details to understand what’s included in the free version and what you might need to pay for.
1. Alison: Diploma in Human Resources
Alison is a popular platform offering a wide range of free courses, and their Diploma in Human Resources is a great option for a comprehensive overview of the field. This course covers topics like recruitment, training and development, performance management, and employment law. While the course itself is free, you may need to pay a small fee to receive the official diploma certificate.
This is a solid choice if you want a broad foundation in HR principles. The modules are well-structured and easy to understand, even for beginners. It’s particularly useful if you’re considering a career change or want to demonstrate your commitment to HR to potential employers.
2. Coursera: Various HR Courses (Audit Option)
Coursera partners with universities and organizations worldwide to offer online courses, and they have many HR-related options. While you often need to pay for a certificate or to access graded assignments, many courses offer a free “audit” option. This allows you to watch the video lectures and read the course materials without paying. Although you won’t get a certificate this way, you’ll still gain valuable knowledge.
Look for courses like “Human Resources: HR for People Managers” or courses focused on specific HR functions like talent acquisition or compensation. Check the course description carefully to see what’s included in the free audit option.
3. LinkedIn Learning: Learning Path: Become an HR Generalist
LinkedIn Learning (formerly Lynda.com) is a fantastic resource, offering many courses taught by industry experts. While it’s typically a subscription-based service, LinkedIn often offers free trials. You can take advantage of a free trial to complete the “Become an HR Generalist” learning path. This path consists of multiple courses covering essential HR topics, and you’ll receive a certificate upon completion of each course within the path.
This is a particularly good option if you want to learn directly from seasoned HR professionals. The courses are practical and provide real-world examples. Just remember to cancel your subscription before the free trial ends if you don’t want to be charged.
4. SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management): Introductory HR Courses
SHRM is a leading professional organization for HR professionals, and they sometimes offer free introductory courses or webinars. These courses often focus on current trends and best practices in HR. While they might not always offer a formal certificate, they can be a valuable way to stay informed and learn from industry experts.
Keep an eye on the SHRM website and social media channels for announcements about free courses and events. Even without a certificate, the knowledge you gain from these resources can be incredibly beneficial.
5. OpenLearn (The Open University): People Management Courses
The Open University’s OpenLearn platform offers a range of free courses, including some related to people management and HR. These courses are typically shorter and more focused than a full diploma program, but they can still provide valuable insights into specific HR topics.
While not all OpenLearn courses offer certificates, many do provide a statement of participation upon completion. This can still be a useful addition to your resume, demonstrating your interest in HR and people management.
Choosing the Right Course for You
With so many options available, how do you choose the right free HR course for you? Here are a few factors to consider:
- Your goals: What do you hope to achieve by taking the course? Are you looking for a broad overview of HR, or do you want to specialize in a specific area?
- Your experience level: Are you new to HR, or do you have some experience already? Choose a course that’s appropriate for your skill level.
- The course content: Read the course description carefully to make sure it covers the topics you’re interested in.
- The instructor: Who is teaching the course? Do they have relevant experience and expertise?
- The certificate: Is a certificate offered? If so, what are the requirements for earning it?
Don’t be afraid to try out a few different courses to see which ones you like best. Remember, learning is a continuous process, and there’s always something new to discover in the field of HR.
Benefits of Earning HR Certificates
Earning an HR certificate, even a free one, can significantly boost your career prospects. It demonstrates your commitment to professional development and shows employers that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in an HR role. Certificates can also help you stand out from other candidates in a competitive job market and potentially lead to higher salaries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these free HR courses really free?
Most of the courses mentioned offer some form of free access, but the specific details vary. Some are completely free, while others offer a “free audit” option or a free trial period. Always read the fine print to understand what’s included in the free version and what you might need to pay for.
Are the certificates worth anything?
While a free certificate might not carry the same weight as a professional certification like a SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP, it can still be a valuable addition to your resume. It shows that you’ve taken the initiative to learn and develop your HR skills. Employers appreciate candidates who are proactive about their professional development.
Do I need any prior experience to take these courses?
No, most of these courses are designed for beginners and don’t require any prior experience in HR. However, some courses may be more advanced and require some basic knowledge of business principles.
How long does it take to complete a free online HR course?
The length of time it takes to complete a course varies depending on the course content and your learning pace. Some courses can be completed in a few hours, while others may take several weeks or even months. Online courses are self-paced, so you can learn at your own convenience.
Taking advantage of free online HR courses with certificates is a fantastic way to expand your knowledge, enhance your resume, and advance your HR career. Remember to research thoroughly, choose courses aligned with your goals, and dedicate the time to complete them. Happy learning!
