Thinking about switching careers? With today’s challenging economy, and the renewed focus on job security as a result, a career in human resources has become a popular second choice. Overall employment is projected to grow by 17 percent between 2006 and 2016, faster than the average for all occupations. With a projected employment growth of 17 percent over the next ten years, human resource professionals are not being laid-off or fired like those in other struggling professions. The intense demand for HR professionals also gives students leverage regarding starting salary and location of employment.

While a career in human resources is highly desirable, many people still have concerns if a career change is right for them.

Am I too old to switch careers?
Regardless of your age, it is never too late to switch careers. If you have been in one industry for a substantial period of time, remember this: most employers and educators highly value experience and professionalism, things many younger applicants don’t have. Use this to your advantage.

What educational background do I need to start a career in HR? The educational backgrounds of human resources, training, and labor relations managers and specialists vary considerably, reflecting the diversity of duties and levels of responsibility. In filling entry-level jobs, many employers seek college graduates who have majored in human resources, human resources administration, or industrial and labor relations. Other employers look for college graduates with a technical or business background or a well-rounded liberal arts education.

Can I earn my degree while working full time?
Yes. Many schools offer part time programs. You can also set your own schedule by earning your degree online. Online degrees are valued just as highly as campus degrees in the HR industry.

Where can I get information on going back to school?
HRGuru has partnered with a number of great colleges to help people just like you go back to school to earn their degree. Get free information by filling out the short form on the right.

Every year, thousands of people make the decision to switch to a career in human resources, not just because it is rewarding work with competitive salaries and room for promotion, but because the HR industry is one of the few industries not affected by an unstable economy. Take the first step towards becoming an HR professional by filling out the short form on the right and get free information from a variety of HR-related programs.