Human Resources, recruitment and training

This page has been designed to give a starting point for those looking into careers in the areas in Human Resources, recruitment and training.

What is Human Resources?

Human Resources (HR) officers are responsible for the recruitment, training and development of staff; for salaries, pensions and benefits administration; and for the health, safety and welfare of all employees. Most human resources officers have a degree or higher national diploma. This can be in any subject, but English, Law, Business Studies and Psychology are particularly useful. Employers also want candidates to be flexible and have transferable skills. You can gain relevant work experience during vacations (CIPD).

  • Prospects
    A graduate careers website with job profiles, including personnel officer, compensation and benefits manager, employee relations officer, equal opportunities officer, occupational psychologist.
  • Targetjobs
    Targetjobs is a graduate careers website with HR job sector information.
  • Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD)
    The professional body for those involved in the management and development of people.
  • Inside Careers
    In-depth and structured information and advice about entering the human resources profession.

How do I get into it?

Most human resources officers have a degree or higher national diploma. This can be in any subject, but English, Law, Business Studies and Psychology are particularly useful. It is a higher competitive area and employers will often expect a CIPD qualification. For more senior roles this is essential.

Finding a job or employer in this sector

Further information and useful links

Key points

  • Human Resources officers are responsible for the recruitment, training and development of staff.
  • Most human resources officers have a degree or higher national diploma.
  • Employers want candidates to be flexible and have transferable skills.

Resources