Most graduate students pursue graduate studies in Human Resources Management. In addition to enhancing their business skills, a graduate degree in HRM can prepare you for a successful career in human resources (HR) administration, compensation and benefits, labor relations, marketing, and management. HR managers must understand the culture of the company, how HR works and how to recruit, hire, and motivate an effective HR staff. They must be able to analyze and implement a variety of programs and practices designed to promote a healthy work environment. To progress from an entry-level HRM position to an HR manager, many graduates enroll in a post-graduate Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Human Resources Management. The program prepares graduates with analytical skills and research knowledge on the various theories and concepts of HRM. Some of the course requirements will include HR related courses such as statistics, human resource management, and pay scales for employees. Other required courses will include communication theory, organizational behavior, and training and development. To be eligible for this degree program, candidates must have completed an associate's degree at an accredited university or college. Human resource managers are expected to be knowledgeable about legal issues affecting the employment of employees, including workers' compensation, harassment, safety regulations, and health and safety issues. Some human resource managers are also expected to be familiar with government regulations concerning disability discrimination. Course requirements vary by university and college. A human resource management graduate degree program typically requires three years of graduate-level study. Most programs allow two years of general academic study as well. A human capital manager must possess excellent interpersonal skills, strategic leadership abilities, and management expertise. To succeed as an HR manager, an individual must develop personal qualities such as motivation, ability to manage time, and ability to communicate effectively. To perform effective coordination and overall supervision of HR departments, an HR manager must have good interpersonal skills, leadership abilities, and organizational skills. These skills are required not only by HR managers but by all types of managers in large organizations. On the job training is essential to becoming a successful human resource management professional. A typical training program will start with lectures about legal issues, salary structures, benefits, labor relations, recruiting, hiring, firing, and workers' compensation. The coursework may also cover training in interviewing, grooming, and negotiating. Additional topics might include managing personnel files, performance management, and developing policies for human resource management. It is important that students acquire specialized job skills before pursuing an HRM degree. Graduates should be prepared to successfully complete both entry-level and upper-level positions. Human resources professionals must be able to recruit, interview, hire, and terminate employees. In addition, they must be able to evaluate job candidates and determine what skills and talents they have. Many employers prefer to hire graduates who have completed at least one year of business administration and the first two years of a master's degree in human resources management. Some employers may also prefer to hire HRM specialists with a master's degree and already work in the business. This ensures that HRM professionals already have a strong background in the business environment. Having worked in this field, these applicants become familiar with the business practices that HRM professionals should follow in their daily work. They also learn how HRM consultants should conduct personal interviewing and selection. With experience, job candidates become knowledgeable about what HRM consultant duties would entail. When choosing an HRM specialist, you should consider the career options that you'll have after graduation. Graduates can choose to be an HR manager, HR administrative specialist, or a human resource management consultant. You can also get trained as a project manager for large companies. On the other hand, you can also get educated as an associate in human resource management to work in smaller firms. Whatever your chosen specialization is, you can improve your prospects in the field by: getting certified; obtaining specialized training; having a background in your chosen field; and building your network and contacts in the field.