Alvernia University

What you'll study

This undergraduate degree combines foundational business knowledge with specialised human resources coursework and practical experience. The curriculum typically includes core business courses and a dedicated sequence of HR modules, plus a capstone or internship that places classroom learning in real workplaces.

• Core HR modules: Introduction to Human Resources, Recruitment and Selection, Training and Development, Performance Management, Compensation and Benefits, and Labour Relations.
• Legal and ethical context: Employment Law, Ethics in Human Resources, Diversity and Inclusion, and Occupational Health and Safety.
• Analytical and strategic skills: Organisational Behaviour, HR Analytics, Strategic Human Resource Management, and Change Management.
• Applied learning: Internship or practicum with a local employer, HR-related capstone project, and opportunities for service-learning and applied research.
• Supporting business knowledge: Principles of Management, Business Communication, Finance basics, and Information Systems for HR.

Courses emphasise hands-on activities—case studies, simulations, HRIS labs, and collaborative projects—preparing students for entry-level HR roles and professional certification pathways.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a secondary school diploma or recognised equivalent. Typical admissions requirements include a transcript demonstrating successful completion of college preparatory coursework and a competitive academic record. Alvernia considers applicants holistically, taking into account:

• High school transcript or equivalent; average GPA expectations vary by applicant pool.
• Personal statement or essay explaining interest in human resources and fit with Alvernia’s mission.
• Letters of recommendation may be requested, particularly for competitive applicants.
• Standardised test scores (SAT/ACT) are considered where submitted; check the admissions office for current testing policies.
• Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and may receive credit for prior coursework or professional experience.

Mature or non-traditional applicants with relevant work experience are encouraged to contact admissions to discuss pathways into the programme.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of roles across the public, private and nonprofit sectors. Common entry-level positions include HR assistant or coordinator, recruiter, training and development specialist, benefits administrator, and payroll or HRIS support. With experience, alumni advance to HR generalist and specialist roles, talent acquisition manager, compensation and benefits analyst, or labour relations representative.

Many students pursue professional credentials (for example, SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP or PHR) or graduate study in human resources, business administration or organizational psychology. The programme’s emphasis on analytics and applied skills also opens opportunities in HR analytics, workforce planning and organisational development.

Why study at Alvernia University

Alvernia offers a personalised learning environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, enabling students to receive tailored career guidance and hands-on experience. The university’s Franciscan values emphasise ethical leadership, service and community engagement—an orientation that aligns well with contemporary HR practice.

• Experiential learning: Students benefit from internships and practicum placements with regional employers, and from project-based courses with real organisational partners.
• Faculty with industry experience: Instructors combine academic expertise with practical HR and business backgrounds, bringing current workplace practices into the classroom.
• Career support: The Career Development Center assists with internships, job placement, resume and interview preparation, and connections to local employers in the Reading and greater Philadelphia area.
• Professional preparation: Curriculum alignment with HR competencies and opportunities to prepare for recognised professional certifications.

Together, these elements equip students for a people-focused career that balances practical HR skills, data literacy and ethical decision-making.