OVERVIEW
What is an HR Analyst?
HR analysts specialize in collecting, analyzing, managing, and reporting workforce data. They utilize a variety of analysis tools and methodologies to examine employee data, such as performance metrics, turnover rates, and compensation. By interpreting these insights, analysts help an organization optimize its workforce, identify areas for improvement, develop hiring and retention strategies, and enhance overall employee satisfaction and productivity. Analysts’ expertise in transforming raw data into actionable recommendations helps the HR department align its policies and practices with the organization's broader goals.
RESPONSIBILITIES
What Does an HR Analyst Do?
An HR analyst plays a crucial role in collecting and analyzing data that helps the human resources department make strategic workforce decisions. Tasks of an HR analyst include:
- Conducting surveys and utilizing other data collection methods.
- Gathering and analyzing data from employees, managers, and other relevant sources.
- Categorizing the collected information into manageable segments for analysis.
- Compiling historical data from employment records and exit interviews.
- Drawing insightful conclusions from collected data.
- Generating clear reports based on the analysis.
- Collaborating with HR supervisors and company executives to develop policies and training programs, then translating results to improve employee compensation, benefits, and training.
- Examining an organization’s financial data to determine compensation and benefits.
- Communicating data results with management, executives, and stakeholders.
- Ensuring adherence to organizational and privacy policies.
Where Does a Data Analyst Work?
HR analysts typically work within the human resources department of organizations that prioritize data-driven decision-making, such as:
- Corporations of all sizes
- Government agencies
- Universities
- School districts
- Nonprofit agencies
- Recruitment firms
EDUCATION & BEST DEGREES
How to Become an HR Analyst
HR analysts play a pivotal role in deciphering workforce data and aiding in strategic decision-making. Therefore, these professionals need a strong combination of analytical skills and business acumen. A bachelor's degree in human resources management provides the educational foundation to equip individuals with the essential knowledge of organizational dynamics, HR principles, and workforce management.
This role also requires knowledge in data collection, analytics, and reporting, making a bachelor’s degree in data analytics another valuable degree option. A data analytics degree program provides the knowledge to take data and turn it into meaningful stories that help organizational leaders make decisions.
Gaining relevant job experience also enhances analytical skills and understanding of human resource processes. In addition to earning a bachelor’s or master's degree, aspiring HR analysts should seek entry-level data analysis, business, or human resources job opportunities to gain experience in this dynamic field. For those already working in the field, advanced degrees in business administration, management and leadership, or human resources provide vital career skills for advanced HR analyst roles.
What Degrees are Best for a HR Analyst?
Business
Human Resource Management – B.S. Business Administration
A SHRM-recognized online business degree program:...
A SHRM-recognized online business degree program:
- Time: 65% of graduates finish within 24 months.
- Tuition: $3,755 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 41 total courses in this program.
Skills for your résumé you will learn in this program include:
- Agile project management
- Employment and labor laws
- Recruiting strategies
- HR technology
- DE&I understanding
Earn your B.S. in Human Resources and help build strong organizations.
Business
Human Resource Management – M.S.
A SHRM-recognized master's degree in human resource management...
A SHRM-recognized master's degree in human resource management
- Time: 61% of graduates finish this program within 18 months.
- Tuition: $4,755 per 6-month term
- Courses: 10 total courses in this program
Skills for your résumé that you will learn in this program include:
- Performance Management
- Communication
- Management
- Planning
- Talent Acquisition
- Human Resource Information System (HRIS)
Earn your M.S. in Human Resources and help companies create excellent cultures.
Technology
Data Analytics – B.S.
Lean into data, and walk away with a cutting-edge online degree:...
Lean into data, and walk away with a cutting-edge online degree:
- Time: 62% of graduates finish within 36 months.
- Tuition and fees: $3,835 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 39 total courses in this program.
Certifications in this program at no additional cost include:
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
- CompTIA Data+
- CompTIA Project+
- Udacity Nanodegree—a unique, highly recognized credential designed to prepare you for a career in data science
- MSI Change Management (Optional Certification)
- Certiprof Design Thinking Professional Certificate (Optional Certification)
Skills for your résumé that you will learn in this program:
- Data management
- Data wrangling
- Statistical analysis
- Visualization
- Leadership and management
- Model deployment & storytelling
How Much Does an HR Analyst Make?
$62,996
As of December 2023, the median pay for HR analysts was $62,996, according to Salary.com. The lowest 10% earned $50,495, and the highest 10% earned around $76,597. Salaries vary based on education, certifications, additional skills, and years of experience in the career field.
What Is the Job Outlook for an HR Analyst?
6%
HR analyst jobs are in demand, with employment of human resources specialists as a whole expected to grow by 6% from 2022 to 2032. This is faster than the average for all occupations. Most U.S. employers and business owners consider the human resources department to be a vital part of their organization and will continue recruiting highly qualified candidates to fill the role of HR analysts.
SKILLS
What Skills Does an HR Analyst Need?
An HR analyst must have a diverse skill set to navigate the complexities of data analysis and workforce management. The role demands a blend of interpersonal and technical proficiency. Success as an HR analyst requires knowledge and skill in these areas:
- Data analysis. Analysts should be proficient in statistical tools and data visualization techniques and have the ability to analyze HR metrics to derive meaningful insights.
- Communication. Strong written and verbal communication skills allow data analysts to convey complex findings in a clear and understandable manner.
- Attention to detail. Exercising precision in handling employee data, survey results, HR reports, and other documentation is a must.
- Knowledge of HR policies and regulations. Understanding and staying updated on local and national labor laws is key to staying compliant and aligning with both legal requirements and company goals.
- Organization. HR analysts must efficiently manage HR databases and records, and they should be able to effectively prioritize and oversee multiple tasks.
This skill set equips HR analysts to interpret data and communicate results to improve workforce satisfaction and meet organizational goals.
Our Online University Degree Programs Start on the First of Every Month, All Year Long
No need to wait for spring or fall semester. It's back-to-school time at WGU year-round. Get started by talking to an Enrollment Counselor today, and you'll be on your way to realizing your dream of a bachelor's or master's degree—sooner than you might think!
Next Start Date
{{startdate}}
Interested in Becoming a HR Analyst?
Learn more about degree programs that can prepare you for this meaningful career.
