San Joaquin Valley College

Human Resources Administration

Online Division
Visalia, CA
Certificate · On Campus
Human Resources Administration
Accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
Taught on campus in Visalia, CA.
Not published
30 weeks
No application fee is charged.
Participates in federal aid: Pell & FSEO grants; Federal Direct Stafford (subsidized/unsubsidized) & PLUS loans; institutional low-interest loan; scholarships; VA benefits.

Human Resources Administration is a Certificate program offered by San Joaquin Valley College in Visalia, CA. The program takes 30 weeks to complete, with a total cost, including fees, of $18,687.

Program Overview

The Human Resources Administration program is 60 weeks in length and offers training in the procedures, policies, and practices found in today's human resource departments. Students develop personal, professional, and human relations skills necessary to perform the duties of a human resource administrator. Hands-on training includes a variety of computer applications, including Microsoft Office, word processing, spreadsheets, and presentation software.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the successful student will be able to:

  • Describe laws and regulations relating to employment, employer and employee rights, health and safety, nondiscrimination, and diversity in the workplace.
  • Communicate confidently and effectively orally and in writing.
  • Perform administrative tasks for HR functions including record keeping and payroll.
  • Demonstrate how to develop and implement programs for training, motivating, and retaining employees.
  • Demonstrate ways to partner with management for decision-making on strategic planning, policy and procedure development, staffing, compensation, and talent management.
  • Demonstrate skills for resolving conflicts, processing grievances, and appraising employee performance.
  • Apply concepts of communication, reasoning, critical thinking, ethical behavior, and appropriate interpersonal interaction to situations in his or her career and personal life.
  • Demonstrate the social skills, professional appearance, attitudes, and behavior that employers expect of all SJVC graduates.

What Sets This Program Apart

Graduates earn an Associate of Science in Human Resources Administration. Graduation requires a minimum keyboarding speed of 35 net words per minute.

Admission Requirements & Process

Making the decision to go back to school is one of the biggest steps on your journey to enrolling. At SJVC, our admissions process is straightforward, and our Admissions Department is dedicated to helping prospective students select the programs that best suit their needs and qualifications.

General Requirements

  • High School Diploma or Equivalent
    Applicants must possess a high school diploma or the equivalent. International diplomas and transcripts must be translated into English and academically evaluated for equivalency…
  • Minimum Age
    Applicants must meet the minimum age requirement as defined by the state where they plan to attend SJVC: 16 in Arizona and Idaho, 17 in California and Nevada, and 18 in New…
  • Admissions Interview
    Applicants must participate in an interview with an Enrollment Services Associate. During the interview, the Enrollment Services Associate will discuss available programs,…
  • Wonderlic SLE-Q (Minimum 12)
    Applicants for all online programs are required to take the Wonderlic Scholastic Level Exam – QuickTest (SLE-Q) prior to enrolling; the minimum score for this program is 12.…
  • English Language Proficiency
    SJVC does not offer English as a Second Language (ESL) coursework; students are required to have proficiency in English as all instruction is presented in English. Proficiency may…
  • Acceptance Interview
    Applicants must meet with either the Enrollment Services Director or a campus manager (or their designee) for an acceptance interview. In addition to this interview, applicants…

Application Process

  1. 1
    Request Information
    Fill out the Request Information form. Once you do, an Admissions Representative will reach out to schedule you for a visit to one of our campuses, or to help you understand how our Online Programs work.
  2. 2
    Meet with Your Admissions Representative
    An online Enrollment Services Associate will interview you, discuss available programs, and help you select the program that aligns best with your career goals, training needs, and motivations.
  3. 3
    Take an Entrance Exam
    Complete the admissions assessment (Wonderlic Scholastic Level Exam – QuickTest for online programs) and achieve the minimum required score for your program.
  4. 4
    Acceptance Interview
    Meet with the Enrollment Services Director or a campus manager (or their designee) for an acceptance interview. You may also be required to meet with the Director of your selected program.
  5. 5
    Meet with Financial Aid and Complete the FAFSA
    Meet with the Financial Services Department to confirm arrangements to meet tuition obligations. Our Financial Aid team can help you plan out how you will pay for college and identify aid you may qualify for.
    FAFSA Code for Online Division: 014741
    Fill Out the FAFSA
  6. 6
    Sign Your Enrollment Agreement
    Sign an Enrollment Agreement, which sets forth specific information such as start and graduation dates, tuition information, and academic schedule, and complete all enrollment documentation. Then ring the admissions bell to celebrate getting accepted!
  7. 7
    Attend New Student Orientation
    All new students must complete New Student Orientation prior to their first class session. The specific date, time and location of orientation will be provided during the admissions process.
  8. 8
    Start Class
    New students in an online course are required to post attendance by 11:59 p.m. (PST) on the second day of the module by submitting a gradable assignment; failure to do so will result in cancellation of the enrollment.

Program Schedule

60 weeks in length (Associate of Science). Offered to new students through the Online Division.

New cohorts start regularly throughout the year. Our start dates are as follows:
  • November 09th, 2026
  • December 14th, 2026
  • January 25th, 2027
  • March 01st, 2027
  • April 05th, 2027
  • May 10th, 2027
  • June 14th, 2027
  • July 19th, 2027
  • August 23rd, 2027
  • September 27th, 2027
  • November 01st, 2027
  • December 06th, 2027

Cost of Attendance & Financial Aid

Cost and Financial Aid Information is an estimate for general reference only. It is not an offer or guarantee of financial aid or of any price, and what a School charges you may differ.
Total Program Cost
≈ $18,687
FAFSA Code
Net Price Calculator

SJVC participates in federal financial aid programs; students who wish to apply for financial aid assistance must establish financial aid eligibility each year. In order to determine financial aid eligibility, students must complete the application process, meet academic progress standards, and be enrolled at least part-time. Financial assistance awarded through SJVC may consist of a combination of grants, loans, and scholarships. SJVC participates with federal, state and private agencies in providing various aid programs.

Types of Financial Aid Available

  • Federal Pell Grant Program – an important source of aid for students who demonstrate a financial need; a grant does not have to be repaid.
  • Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants – a limited number of awards targeted to students who have the lowest calculated family income.
  • Federal Direct Stafford Loans (Subsidized) – for students requiring additional financial assistance; must be repaid, beginning six months after graduation or termination.
  • Federal Direct Stafford Loans (Unsubsidized) – independent students may borrow and begin interest payments while in school.
  • Federal Direct PLUS – parents of dependent students may borrow funds to meet educational expenses.
  • Institutional Loan – the College offers a low-interest loan program used only to pay tuition charges not covered by financial aid.
  • Student Scholarships – the College awards up to $40,000 annually in scholarships to high school seniors who meet certain requirements.

Total program tuition is $18,687 (tuition only; any fees billed separately).

Required Courses

Subject #NameCredits
COMP 101Computer Literacy and Applications for the Professional3
BUSN 100Business Math Applications3
BUSN 120Business Communication3
BUSN 190Customer Service2
BUSN 201Spreadsheet Management3
HRA 22Regulations & Laws Affecting Human Resources5
HRA 33Payroll Management & Compensation6

Career Outcomes

The Career Services Department offers a wide variety of career planning and employment-related services to current SJVC students and alumni. While SJVC does not guarantee employment, income, or wage rate, Career Services staff are available to assist students in developing job-readiness skills and pursuing employment in their chosen career fields. Some of the services offered include:

  • Résumé development
  • Job search assistance
  • Interview techniques
  • Career development courses
  • Career information panels
  • Employment-related workshops and programs

Career Academy

The Career Services Department partners students with the Career Academy to prepare students for the job search process. Utilizing an innovative, interactive hub, students will:

  • Engage in a variety of professional development games and activities.
  • Create high-quality professional résumés highlighting the skills acquired throughout their program.
  • Participate in mock interview sessions to develop effective interviewing skills.

A final exit interview will capstone the student's preparedness for interviewing with potential employers. Successful completion of each of these items is a graduation requirement.

What to Expect as a Student at San Joaquin Valley College

Housing

San Joaquin Valley College does not have dormitory facilities under its control, nor does it assist students in securing housing. However, limited guidance may be available through the Academic Dean to help students explore local housing options. According to the California Student Aid Commission's 2025–26 Student Expense Budget, students should budget approximately $1,691 per month for housing, which includes rent and utilities. These estimates are intended to help students plan their budgets and do not reflect actual housing offers or guarantees; students are solely responsible for evaluating and securing their own housing arrangements.

Additional Information and Student Services

Additional information related to the provision of student services and campus life in general may be found in the Student Handbook.

Location

Online Division
3828 W. Caldwell Ave.
Visalia, CA 93277

Accreditation & Approvals

Institutional Accreditation: San Joaquin Valley College is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), 1080 Marina Village Parkway, Suite 500, Alameda, CA 94501, (510) 748-9001. WSCUC.org. The WSCUC is an institutional accrediting body recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education.

SJVC is a private institution and is approved to operate as an accredited institution by the California Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE). Approval to operate means that SJVC has been found in compliance with the standards set forth in the California Private Postsecondary Education Act of 2009 (as amended) and Title 5, Division 7.5 – Private Postsecondary Education of the California Code of Regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long are the programs?
In most programs, students can earn a certificate of completion in as few as 9 months, or an associate of science degree in as few as 14 months. This is a short-term investment that gives our graduates a long-term career advantage.
How much does it cost?
Tuition varies by campus, program of study and program credential level. Education is the most important investment you can make in your future. There is a financial plan available for everyone, including a broad range of financial assistance options. Visit SJVC’s Net Price Calculator to get personalized information on college costs and financial aid. Check out SJVC’s Consumer Information to learn about program costs by campus and credential level. You also can talk to an Admissions Representative to discuss the costs of your chosen program, and schedule an appointment with an experienced financial aid officer.
Will I fit in?
Our students are all unique, but most will agree that SJVC made them feel like they fit right in thanks to the family-like atmosphere you can find on all of our campuses.
What kinds of career training do you offer?
SJVC offers more than 20 highly specialized, short-term career education programs on 15 campuses located throughout California — in addition to an online division. You can earn your associate of science degree or certificate in a wide variety of medical, dental, business, industrial and trades programs. Our programs offer the right balance of hands-on training and classroom instruction to prepare you for success in your chosen career.
When do classes start?
Start dates for specific programs vary by campus, but classes begin year-round. Contact your local campus or our online division to find out when your chosen program begins — the best time to start is now!
What is the class schedule like?
SJVC’s ground campuses offer morning, afternoon or evening classes for many programs. Students in online programs learn from and communicate with their instructors on a flexible schedule. When you meet with your Admissions Representative, they can give you specific information on the programs and campus you’re most interested in.
Can I take classes online?
Yes. SJVC offers several programs online, including: • Business Office Administration • Construction Management • Dental Hygiene Bachelor of Science • Health Care Management Bachelor of Science • Human Resources Administration • Information Technology • Clinical Medical Assisting • Medical Billing and Coding • Respiratory Therapy Bachelor of Science In some programs, students at our ground campuses in California may also take certain classes online. This helps students improve their technology skills and allows for schedule flexibility. Learn more about our online programs.
Do you offer financial assistance?
There are a variety of financial aid programs available to SJVC students. Financing your education can be accomplished through several options, including: Grants, scholarships, student loans, private financing and payment plans. Contact an Admissions Representative to set up your financial aid consultation. Financial aid is available to those who qualify.
What job opportunities will be waiting for me when I graduate?
SJVC works with local employers to find out what job skills are in high demand. Our hands-on training gives you the skills and experience you need to compete in today’s job market. The Career Services Department works with all graduates to help them find a job in their chosen career. Visit our Consumer Information page or the page of the program you’re interested in to learn about common jobs our students are placed in after graduation.
Can I do it?
We are here to see you succeed. SJVC believes in our students. Our faculty and staff will help you stay on the path to success from the moment you first speak with an Admissions Representative to graduation and into your career. SJVC is committed to the success of every student.
What is a Human Resource Specialist?
A human resources specialist works in a business’s HR department and helps with recruiting, managing employee contracts, and payroll.
What are the Skills Required for an HR Administrator?
Working as an HR administrator requires knowledge of office software, including specialized payroll systems and records management applications. HR administrators also need strong business ethics, communication, and other interpersonal skills. Check out the SJVC blog for more information on building HR skills.
Is an Online Human Resources Certificate Worth It?
Only you can decide if an online human resources certificate program is right for you. Students may enjoy working in human resources if they like working with others, collaborating on teams, or learning about business settings.
What Can I Do with an Associate Degree in Human Resources?
Students in SJVC’s HRA programs may go on to work as: • Administrative Services Managers • Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks • Customer Service Representatives • Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants • General and Operations Managers • Human Resources Specialists • Office Clerks, General • Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Except Technical and Scientific Products
What’s the Difference Between an HR Specialist and an HR Manager?
Human resource specialists and managers have different roles in an HR department. HR managers have a supervisory role, while HR specialists, especially in larger organizations, handle specific programs or departments such as compensation and benefits, training, and development.
Should I Get an HR Degree or Certificate?
Deciding between an Associate Degree in Human Resources and a certificate depends on your needs. If you’re looking to complete your education more quickly, a Human Resources Administration certificate can be earned in less time.
How Long Are the HR Programs?
At SJVC, you can earn your Human Resources Administration Certificate of Completion in as few as 7 months. If you decide to pursue an Associate Degree in Human Resources Administration, you can complete the program in as few as 14 months.
What Degree Do You Need to Work in HR?
There is no single degree required to work in human resources. Some entry-level HR positions may be accessible with a Human Resources Administration certificate or an associate degree, while some employers may prefer a bachelor’s degree for advanced HR roles. Educational requirements can vary depending on the employer, position, and level of responsibility. Training in Human Resources Administration can help prepare students for roles that support employee onboarding, training, benefits administration, payroll, and personnel records management.
What are the Best Online Degree Programs for Human Resources?
One of the best aspects of online degree programs in human resources is that they offer the flexibility to learn around your schedule while teaching foundational concepts and practical skills through an industry-aligned curriculum.
What are Common Admission Requirements for a Degree in Human Resources?
Applicants to the SJVC Human Resources Administration program must meet the general requirements for admission to the college and attain a minimum score of 12 on the Wonderlic Scholastic Level Exam – QuickTest before enrollment. For more information, contact the SJVC Admissions Department.
Ready to get started?
Request information about Human Resources Administration at Online Division.
Human Resources Administration