Add a layer of expertise to your Human Resource Management degree
HRM+ is a new, optional initiative designed for Human Resource Management (HRM) students who want to make more strategic use of their electives and graduate with a clearer area of expertise.
Whether you want to specialize within HRM or build expertise in a specific industry or sector, HRM+ helps you shape your degree around your interests, career goals and the skills employers are looking for.
What is HRM+?
HRM+ allows you to add an additional layer of expertise to your Bachelor of Human Resource Management degree through one of two pathways:
- A Concentration: Focus deeply on a specific functional area within HRM
- A Combination: Tailor your electives to become an HR professional with expertise in a specific industry or sector
You’ll work one-on-one with a dedicated LA&PS HRM academic advisor to cocreate a study plan that aligns with your goals and fits within your existing degree requirements. Participation in HRM+ is voluntary and designed to be flexible.
Benefits: Why Choose HRM+?
Make more intentional use of your electives
Gain focused knowledge aligned with your career goals
Stand out to employers with a clear area of specialization
Receive personalized academic advising
support
Build a learning path that reflects your interests and aspirations
Two Ways to Build Your Expertise
Option 1: HRM Concentration
Deepen your expertise within a specific area of Human Resource Management.
A concentration allows you to focus your electives on a particular HR function, helping you build targeted knowledge and skills.
Interested in something else? Your advisor can help you explore or design a concentration aligned with your career goals and available courses.
Option 2: HRM Combination
Become an HR professional with expertise in a specific industry or sector.
A combination allows you to pair your HRM degree with electives from another area of study to develop sector-specific knowledge.
This option is ideal if you already know the industry you want to work in or if you want to stand out by pairing HR expertise with sector knowledge.
How HRM+ Works
Getting started with HRM+ is simple:
Explore your interests
Think about the HR areas or industries you’re most passionate about.
Connect with an academic advisor
An LA&PS HRM advisor will help you understand your options and assess fit and timing.
Co‑create a study plan
Together, you’ll identify a set of electives that align with your chosen concentration or combination.
Complete your courses
Follow your personalized plan while completing your HRM degree.
Graduate with an added layer of expertise
HRM+ is designed to give you a clearer focus and a competitive edge as you enter the job market.
HRM+ Sample Case Studies
Tia is a BHRM student with a keen interest in health and wellness. She will take her electives in public health, kinesiology, nutrition, and fitness to become a wellness advisor for the HR department of a large organization.
Amir is a BHRM student who wants to start his own consulting business one day. He has designed his HRM+ degree to focus on small business management, basic finance and accounting, and entrepreneurship.
Lamees is a BHRM student who wants to become a corporate training and organization development specialist. Her HRM+ concentration will focus her electives on adult learning, pedagogy, and instructional design.
How to Sign Up
Book an appointment with your LA&PS HRM academic advisor to:
- Learn more about concentrations and combinations
- Assess when HRM+ fits best into your degree
- Create a personalized course plan
FAQ
Is HRM+ a separate program or degree?
No. HRM+ is an optional initiative, not a separate degree or program. You remain enrolled in the Bachelor of Human Resource Management program.
How many courses are required?
HRM+ will involve at least six elective courses (18 credits).
When should I start HRM+?
The earlier you start, the more flexibility you’ll have when selecting electives. First‑year students are especially encouraged to explore HRM+, but academic advisors can help assess fit at different stages of your degree.
Can I design my own concentration or combination?
Yes. If your interests don’t align perfectly with existing examples, your academic advisor can help you explore a customized option based on your goals and course availability.
How will HRM+ be recognized?
Upon completion of HRM+ you will be issued a digital badge, which can be added to your LinkedIn profile or email signature.
Is participation mandatory?
No. HRM+ is completely voluntary and designed to complement—not replace—your existing degree requirements.
Questions?
Read through our Frequently Asked Questions to learn more or get in touch via email at updhrm@yorku.ca.