����TV

We live in a world increasingly shaped by algorithms, AI and automation, all of which are undeniably transforming the modern workplace. research estimates the long-term AI opportunity at $4.4 trillion in added productivity potential.

Yet, at the heart of every organization, one element remains unchanged: the human factor. As this landscape shifts, the ability to manage, develop and support an organization's most valuable asset—its people—has never been more critical.

A recent article by software company , predicts that 85 million jobs will be displaced by AI in the coming years. However, the AI revolution will also create 97 million new jobs, underscoring the need for human oversight in machine automation.�� After all, “jobs require human beings to make constant value judgements based on the people in front of them,” cites The Times (UK).

AI operates within closed systems, lacking awareness of who it interacts with and delivering information without the context of past experiences or relationships. In contrast, human resource professionals bring invaluable qualities—deep understanding, empathy and nuanced judgment—that no technology can replicate.

Will Technology Eclipse HR’s Human Skills?

Ultimately, it’s human leadership that shapes and sustains positive workplace environments. “It’s fundamentally important that business professionals know how to make people-based decisions as a skillset, rather than rely on technology,” says Bethany Adams, Associate Director, Marketing & Strategy for Villanova’s Graduate Programs in Human Resource Development. “It’s what will set businesses apart in the future. HR professionals must have an understanding of business and HR."

Human Oversight: The Ethical Imperative of HR in a Digital World

However, AI's increasing presence in the workplace necessitates critical ethical considerations within HR practices and policies, as recently discussed in a . How are fairness and transparency ensured in automated hiring processes? How is employee privacy protected in data-driven performance evaluations? How can the potential for bias in AI-powered decision-making be mitigated? These aren’t technical questions; they’re human questions.

“Whether an organization has 20 employees or 20,000, HR professionals play a vital role in businesses today,” says Adams. Well-educated and trained HR professionals are uniquely positioned to address these challenges, upholding the dignity of every employee by ensuring that technology is used responsibly.

Transactional to Strategic in the Modern HR Department

The perception of HR as merely an administrative function is fading. “HR used to be transactional and focused on the administrative aspects of managing people in a business,” says Adams. “Today, organizations understand that how we motivate employees impacts the bottom line. If we align their skills with their jobs and provide them with the tools to be successful, they’re more likely to be engaged and fulfilled, and the business is more likely to thrive.” Moving beyond employee hiring, salary and benefits, the HR scope has expanded to include organizational strategy, culture building and business performance optimization.

Becoming a successful HR professional requires a sophisticated blend of business acumen, technological literacy and a deep understanding of human behavior. As explains, Human Resources is uniquely situated as a strategic business partner and stands to drive success through people-centered initiatives that make it and its Human Resources officers indispensable to business growth and sustainability.

HR Employment Growth Projections and Expanding Roles

Given the prevalence of new technology and the expansion of HR functionality, it’s no surprise that there has been a 61% increase in HR jobs over the last 10 years, according to . Additionally, the projects that HR specialist positions will grow 8% over the next eight years, and HR managers 6%, faster than the average for all occupations. Organizations will continue to need workers to fill crucial Human Resources positions, from entry-level Human Resources coordinators to executive-level HR roles.

As HR professionals progress in their careers, they take on more responsibility, develop new skills, and enhance their competencies—all of which influence HR salaries. While these salaries vary depending on experience, industry, and location, earning advanced degrees and professional certifications can open the door to higher-level roles, such as HR manager jobs, often offering increased salaries and greater earning potential.

Elevate Your Career with HR Education Programs at Villanova

Whether you are just starting in Human Resources or are a seasoned HR pro with many years of experience, now is a critical time to stay ahead in the evolving job market and invest in your career with Human Resources education programs.

“Career advancement within HR is attainable,” says Adams. “Education and HR work experience, along with a great network like Villanova’s, will take HR professionals to the next level in their career.”

Explore Villanova’s Human Resources Certificates and Degrees

����TV offers a range of HR programs for professionals looking to get ahead in the dynamic HR job market. From recent college graduates hoping to break into the HR field to professionals looking to make a career change and HR executives updating their certifications, Villanova is a proven leader in Human Resources with programs to empower HR professionals to stand out and advance their careers.

Certificate in Human Resource Management

The Human Resources Certificate program in the College of Professional Studies delves beyond the basics of HR principles and explores how to adeptly balance employee and employer vantage points to develop strategies and practices that enhance workforce management and employee relations. With several course electives to choose from, the HR Certificate program prepares you for a thriving career in HR.

SHRM Exam Prep Course

Completing the HR Certificate will help interested HR professionals sit for the SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP®) or SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP®) exam. Villanova's SHRM Exam Prep Course is another resource for those preparing for SHRM certification.

BIS in Human Resources Management

The undergraduate major in Human Resource Management, offered through CPS' Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies, is specifically designed for adult learners seeking to earn or complete their bachelor’s degree while pursuing a career in HR. This program caters to those aiming for career advancement in the HR field. Additionally, students in the Human Resource Management major can transition into a combined bachelor’s/master’s program in Human Resource Development, where several prerequisite courses are waived.

Master of Science in Human Resource Development

For more than 45 years, Villanova’s Master of Science in Human Resource Development (MSHRD) has provided students with a comprehensive overview of the HR field. Offered both on campus and online, the courses are taught by experienced faculty who are active in the industry and provide a modern focus on emerging trends in this rapidly changing field. Positioned within the College of Liberal Arts and Science and uniquely rooted in psychological research, the MSHRD is one of the longest-running HR graduate programs in the country, with one of the largest alumni HR networks, offering excellent opportunities to connect with fellow professionals.

HRD Concentration Certificates

The graduate program in HRD offers four graduate certificates in important areas of the HR field. These certificates can be earned independently or in conjunction with the master's program. All certificate credits are directly transferable to the MSHRD if students decide to complete the MS degree.

Become an HR Leader at Villanova

While technology and AI continue to reshape the workplace, the need for human insight and leadership in HR will only grow, making it more crucial than ever for HR professionals to develop strategic, ethical and people-centered skills in an increasingly digital world.