Business Human Resources

Program Overview

The Human Resources program at St. Lawrence College equips students with comprehensive knowledge and skills in all aspects of HR management. Through a blend of theoretical and practical approaches, students develop expertise in recruitment, training, compensation, diversity, and more. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in various HR-related fields, including HR Generalist, HR Manager, and Recruitment Specialist.

Program Outline

The program covers various topics, including:

• The Human Side of Business: This course explores the impact of human factors on business success, covering topics like equity, diversity, inclusion, social responsibility, ethics, sustainability, and client service.
• Training and Development: Students learn how to identify training needs, design and deliver training programs, and evaluate their effectiveness.
• Organizational Behaviour: This course explores individual, group, and organizational dynamics, covering topics like perception, attitudes, motivation, group dynamics, leadership, and decision-making.
• Introduction to Intercultural Communications: Students learn about cultural groups and their interactions, exploring topics like cultural history, power dynamics, identity, language, nonverbal communication, culture shock, relationships, conflict, and diversity in the workplace.
• Health and Safety: This course delves into the fundamental principles of health and safety in the workplace, covering workers' compensation systems, occupational health and safety laws and regulations, disability management, and wellness.
• Inclusivity and Diversity: This course explores the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace, covering topics like human rights, biases against marginalized groups, and strategies for creating an inclusive environment.
• Compensation and Benefits Management: Students learn about the design and administration of compensation and benefits programs, including salary and wage structures, benefits packages, and strategies to attract, retain, and motivate employees.
• Recruitment and Selection: This course covers the entire recruitment and selection process, encompassing job analysis, recruitment strategies, interviewing techniques, selection tools, and legal considerations.
• Business Intelligence and Emerging Technologies: This course introduces students to business intelligence tools and emerging technologies, focusing on solving real-world challenges for businesses or nonprofits using interdisciplinary teams and industry problem-solving frameworks.
• Workplace Simulation Project: Students apply their newly acquired skills and knowledge in a simulated workplace environment, solving problems independently and collaboratively, and practicing professional standards expected of HR practitioners.

Structure:

The program follows a semester-based structure, with two semesters per year. Students can start the program in January, May, or September. The program is offered full-time, typically requiring 6 semesters to complete.

Course Schedule:

The specific course schedule may vary depending on the starting month. However, the program typically comprises the following courses spread across the 6 semesters:

• Semester 1: Introduction to Business, Communications for College, Business Computer Applications, Introductory Business Mathematics, Professional and Personal Development, Accounting Fundamentals, Introduction to Economics, General Education course
• Semester 2: Business Communications, Principles of Human Resource Management, Marketing Essentials, Mathematics of Finance, Business Application Modeling, The Human Side of Business: Thriving in the New World of Work, General Education course
• Semester 3: Training and Development, Career and Placement Preparation, Intermediate Excel and Access, Organizational Behaviour, Introduction to Intercultural Communications, Managerial Accounting, Business Law: Contract/Tort
• The Human Side of Business: This course explores the impact of human factors on business success, covering topics like equity, diversity, inclusion, social responsibility, ethics, sustainability, and client service.
• Training and Development: Students learn how to identify training needs, design and deliver training programs, and evaluate their effectiveness.
• Organizational Behaviour: This course explores individual, group, and organizational dynamics, covering topics like perception, attitudes, motivation, group dynamics, leadership, and decision-making.
• Introduction to Intercultural Communications: Students learn about cultural groups and their interactions, exploring topics like cultural history, power dynamics, identity, language, nonverbal communication, culture shock, relationships, conflict, and diversity in the workplace.
• Health and Safety: This course delves into the fundamental principles of health and safety in the workplace, covering workers' compensation systems, occupational health and safety laws and regulations, disability management, and wellness.
• Inclusivity and Diversity: This course explores the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace, covering topics like human rights, biases against marginalized groups, and strategies for creating an inclusive environment.
• Compensation and Benefits Management: Students learn about the design and administration of compensation and benefits programs, including salary and wage structures, benefits packages, and strategies to attract, retain, and motivate employees.
• Recruitment and Selection: This course covers the entire recruitment and selection process, encompassing job analysis, recruitment strategies, interviewing techniques, selection tools, and legal considerations.
• Business Intelligence and Emerging Technologies: This course introduces students to business intelligence tools and emerging technologies, focusing on solving real-world challenges for businesses or nonprofits using interdisciplinary teams and industry problem-solving frameworks.
• Workplace Simulation Project: Students apply their newly acquired skills and knowledge in a simulated workplace environment, solving problems independently and collaboratively, and practicing professional standards expected of HR practitioners.

Assessment:

The program uses various assessment methods to evaluate student learning:

• Assignments: Students complete individual and group assignments designed to test their understanding of core concepts and their ability to apply those concepts to real-world situations.
• Exams: Both written and online exams test students' knowledge of specific course content.
• Presentations: Students present their findings and recommendations on projects or case studies to demonstrate their understanding and communication skills.
• Participation: Active participation in class discussions and activities contributes to the overall assessment.

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, case studies, group discussions, simulations, guest speakers, and hands-on activities. This blend of approaches ensures effective learning and accommodates different learning styles.

Faculty:

The program's teaching staff consists of experienced and qualified individuals with expertise in human resources management and related fields. Many faculty members have practical industry experience, which brings real-world insights into the classroom.

Unique Approaches:

The program incorporates several unique approaches to enhance the learning experience:

• Industry Partnerships: The program collaborates with organizations in the field to provide students with opportunities for internships, guest lectures, and networking.
• Case Studies: Analyzing real-world scenarios through case studies allows students to apply theoretical concepts to practical situations.
• Simulation Project: Engaging in a simulated workplace environment enables students to integrate their knowledge and skills in a practical context.
• Guest Speakers: Industry professionals offer valuable insights and perspectives, enriching the learning experience.

Careers:

Career Paths:

Graduates of the program pursue careers in various HR-related fields, including:

• HR Generalist
• HR Specialist
• Recruitment Specialist
• Compensation and Benefits Specialist
• HR Manager
• Director of HR
• Human Resources Consultant
• Training and Development Specialist
• Labour Relations Specialist
• Occupational Health and Safety Specialist

Career Opportunities:

Graduates find employment in various industries, including:

• Large corporations
• Small and medium-sized businesses
• Government agencies
• Non-profit organizations
• Educational institutions
• Healthcare organizations

Career Outcomes:

Graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce and contribute to HR functions in different organizations. They develop valuable skills to:

• Manage recruitment and selection processes
• Create effective training programs
• Develop and administer compensation and benefits programs
• Maintain positive employee relations
• Contribute to a diverse and inclusive workplace
• Navigate the legal and regulatory environment of HR

Other:

Advanced Standing:

Students with a minimum of 75% in Grade 12 M-level accounting can potentially receive advanced standing in the program's Introductory Accounting course.

International Student Considerations:

International students who complete the program are eligible for a post-graduation work permit.