Why ODU for SHRM Essentials?

Our SHRM Essentials of Human Resources course provides a foundational overview of HR practices and behaviors in less than 20 hours of classroom time. It introduces key HR concepts through real-world applications and scenarios to help you navigate workplace challenges effectively.

You will gain critical HR competencies, learning how to apply best practices in recruitment, compliance, performance management, and employee relations.

ODU can also prepare you for career growth with a program developed by SHRM, the world’s largest HR association and leading advocate for HR professionals.

When you complete the course, you will be equipped with essential HR skills, whether you are new to the field, a student, or working in a small business environment.

Talk To Us

To learn more about SHRM Essentials of Human Resources, you can reach Continuing Education by calling 757-683-5650, emailing cepd@odu.edu, or completing the quick form below.

Program Information

Build a strong foundation in human resources with our SHRM Essentials of Human Resources course. Enroll today and gain the skills to navigate workplace challenges with confidence.

March 20 – April 17, 2025
Thursdays
12:00pm – 3:00pm
Register Now


July 24 - August 7, 2025
Tuesdays & Thursdays
6:00pm – 9:00pm
Register Now

Access course materials 100% online and study from any location. This program is synchronous. Class sessions will not be recorded; students must log in during the scheduled day/time to participate.

Designed as a thorough introduction to HR basics, the SHRM Essentials of Human Resources course provides a solid foundation in human resource management that improves HR job performance across multiple job titles and functions.

  • New and junior HR practitioners who need to increase their knowledge base.
  • Small business owners or office managers who perform the HR function for their company.
  • Business managers who want to learn basic HR best practices to avoid costly litigation.
  • New or experienced managers interested in learning more about employee management skills.
  • Representatives selling or supporting HR systems and services.
  • International HR personnel wishing to increase their knowledge of U.S. HR practices.
  • Job seekers who are investigating HR as a new career option or want to have HR as a skill for future positions.

Build a strong foundation in human resources with our SHRM Essentials of Human Resources course. Enroll today and gain the skills to navigate workplace challenges with confidence.

March 20 – April 17, 2025
Thursdays
12:00pm – 3:00pm
Register Now


July 24 - August 7, 2025
Tuesdays & Thursdays
6:00pm – 9:00pm
Register Now

Access course materials 100% online and study from any location. This program is synchronous. Class sessions will not be recorded; students must log in during the scheduled day/time to participate.

Designed as a thorough introduction to HR basics, the SHRM Essentials of Human Resources course provides a solid foundation in human resource management that improves HR job performance across multiple job titles and functions.

  • New and junior HR practitioners who need to increase their knowledge base.
  • Small business owners or office managers who perform the HR function for their company.
  • Business managers who want to learn basic HR best practices to avoid costly litigation.
  • New or experienced managers interested in learning more about employee management skills.
  • Representatives selling or supporting HR systems and services.
  • International HR personnel wishing to increase their knowledge of U.S. HR practices.
  • Job seekers who are investigating HR as a new career option or want to have HR as a skill for future positions.

Cost & Aid

A smiling business women is seated at an office table with a laptop
Calculating Cost
Discount Registration for Military, ODU Students & SHRM Members
$549
Standard Registration
$599

Continuing Education can accept payments for courses in several different forms. ODU's helpful staff can assist you in determining if you might qualify for any number of various funding options that could assist you with non-credit continuing educational opportunities to improve your marketability and advance your career.

Tuition includes 12-month access to the SHRM Essentials of Human Resources program, a mobile-friendly digital hub that covers six fundamental HR topic areas. Each topic has an easy to navigate playlist of videos, podcasts, e-learning resources, and downloadable learning aids. (Course materials are available online only via the digital hub, there are no print materials.)

Student sits in a coffee shop on laptop while listening in to a lecture
Refund Policy

To withdraw from this course, you must send a request in writing to cepd@odu.edu seven days prior to the class start date and before starting the course. Failure to attend a course does not constitute withdrawal. Course registration fees, less a $100 processing fee, will be refunded back to your original form of payment. There are no refunds once you have logged in and the class has begun.

Careers in SHRM

Our graduates pursue roles as HR managers, talent acquisition specialists, employee relations coordinators, and compensation and benefits analysts, helping organizations attract, develop, and retain top talent.

Human Resources Managers
Growth
6.5%
Median Salary
$136,350
Compensation and Benefits Managers
Growth
2.1%
Median Salary
$136,380