• Replies 7 replies
  • Subscribers 9 subscribers
  • Views 1509 views
  • Users 0 members are here
Options
Related

Will my lack of a degree hold me back in HR?

Laurence Churcher

Hi all, I am currently in the process of changing career from a primarily management role with HR responsibilities to an HR role. I am 21 next month and have a level 3 certificate in human resource practice along with a level 5 NVQ in management in a health and social care role (my current job.) Unfortunately though as I did not attend University I have some concerns about how the lack of a degree may affect my potential to progress down a HR career. I would be interested in completing either the Level 5 or Level 7 Diplomas in HR when I am in a pure HR role and have the funds to self finance but am unsure if employers consider these as suitable replacements for having a degree for the roles where this is required. 

If not are there any alternative routes to achieving a relevant degree? I know that the open university offers some courses in HR and business degrees but would be concerned about spending 4+ years on this after the time required to achieve my other CIPD qualifications. Is there any way that I could use completion of the Level 7 to contribute towards a Degree?

Through my current role I have developed a strong passion for HR and would like a clear plan for progression, both in my career and in my qualifications.

Thanks in advance for any replies

Parents
  • Personally speaking, I think experience counts for a lot more than a degree. I have a degree in a totally unrelated field so it was no help to me at all. I've worked with people who have completed a degree in Personnel Management but have no experience and not a clue how to apply their learning.

    I did my CPP and my Level 7, I learned the theory but they didn't teach me about the practice of HR. I learned that from working in HR. I started as an HR administrator and was fortunate to work with managers who were willing to share their knowledge with me. The most valuable thing for me was the mistakes I made, you learn very quickly not to make them again.

    As Keith says, it is hard to get your first position in HR, be prepared to take a step down if necessary. I'm glad I did as it gave me a good grounding and understanding.
Reply
  • Personally speaking, I think experience counts for a lot more than a degree. I have a degree in a totally unrelated field so it was no help to me at all. I've worked with people who have completed a degree in Personnel Management but have no experience and not a clue how to apply their learning.

    I did my CPP and my Level 7, I learned the theory but they didn't teach me about the practice of HR. I learned that from working in HR. I started as an HR administrator and was fortunate to work with managers who were willing to share their knowledge with me. The most valuable thing for me was the mistakes I made, you learn very quickly not to make them again.

    As Keith says, it is hard to get your first position in HR, be prepared to take a step down if necessary. I'm glad I did as it gave me a good grounding and understanding.
Children