ObjectivesThis program will emphasize theories, concepts and applications as they apply to strategic benefits management. It will provide a formal background in practical skill competencies as they relate to total reward strategies. The program will assist individuals to develop benefit management skills as well as an opportunity for further professional development. Overall, the focus is in the design, delivery and evaluation of materials in the strategic benefits management field.
Academic titleBenefits Specialist Certificate
Course descriptionACCT1020 Financial And Managerial Accounting
Description: This course is designed to teach human resources practitioners the financial and managerial accounting they require. The accounting dimension involved in the management of the human resources function itself will also be taught. Students should bring a calculator to the first class. Note: This course is an approved HRPA credit.
Hours: 60
Credits: 4
COMM1620 Strategic Communication in Total Rewards
Description: This intermediate-level course provides a general overview of communication theory and fundamentals. Participants are introduced to a seven-step process for communicating total rewards programs (compensation, benefits and the work experience). Emphasis is given to both the strategic and tactical elements of designing, implementing and managing a communication campaign. This course is designed for those experienced in the employee compensation and benefits fields or for those who would like to broaden their total rewards perspective. This course is highly discussion-oriented with a focus on strategic design and direction of communication.
Hours: 36
Credits: 3
Pre-Requisites: HRM1050, MATH1210
HRM1050 Compensation
Description: This course teaches the process involved in a compensation system. Students will learn the theoretical and applied aspects of the compensation function and will understand the linkage between the compensation function and organizational management process. Note: This course is an approved HRPA credit.
Hours: 39
Credits: 3
HRM1110 Fundamentals of Employee Benefits Program
Description: The focus of this course is on designing, administering and funding company benefit plans including life, short term disability, long term disability, major medical, dental and pension plans. Current trends in the insurance industry in the group benefits area will be reviewed. Students will also have an opportunity to explore the linkages which exist between government sponsored plans and company sponsored plans. Current approaches to benefit design will be reviewed and students will explore alternative design types and critique their suitability for differing employee needs. Cost and price issues will also be reviewed along with some of the major pieces of legislation impacting on this area.
Hours: 36
Credits: 3
Pre-Requisites: HRM1050
HRM1210 Retirement Plans-Design and Management
Description: This intermediate-level course presents an overview of objectives, design principles, practices, and laws and regulations that govern retirement plans. It provides the foundation on which retirement programs are designed, implemented and managed, with a focus on employer-sponsored qualified plans. This course does not cover multi-employer, government or nonqualified retirement plans. This course is designed specifically for compensation and benefits professionals seeking an overview of qualified retirement plans and those preparing to assume responsibility for the detailed administration and management of these plans. Proficiency in the Fundamentals of Employees Benefits course content is recommended.
Hours: 36
Credits: 3
Pre-Requisites: HRM1050, MATH1210
HRM1220 Health Care and Insurance Plans - Design and Management
Description: This intermediate-level course gives the student a detailed overview of the design and management health and insurance benefits. Students will cover legal requirements, including recent legislative changes, as well as new trends and emerging issues. This course is designed specifically for benefits and compensation professionals who need a design-oriented overview of health and welfare plans. Students will also benefit from this course if preparing to assume management responsibility for these plans. It is recommended that participants be proficient in the Fundamentals of Employees Benefits course content.
Hours: 42
Credits: 3
Pre-Requisites: HRM1050, MATH1210
MATH1210 Quantitative Methods
Description: Much needed skills for Human Resources practitioners include determining training needs, developing a truly predictive employment interview, and investigating the reasons for absenteeism. The successful accomplishment of these tasks requires sound methodology and a working knowledge of multiple research methods. This course will provide a good understanding of how the research process aids in effective HR management and will be of interest to both human resources students and professionals. Participants will explore the concepts, data collection procedures and analyses of the quantitative and qualitative approaches.
Hours: 36
Credits: 3
Electives: Program Option
Description: Student must pass 2 Course(s)
Elective Courses:
HRM1200 Outsourcing and Managing HR Service Partners
Hours: 36
Credits: 3
Pre-Requisites: HRM1050, MATH1210
HRM1230 Strategic Benefits Planning
Description: This intermediate-level course will provide a strategic overview of how benefits and effective administration factors into organizational effectiveness. Students will cover strategic management, benefits planning, benefits auditing and the use of information systems to support the benefits management function. This course is designed for HR professionals in the throws of benefits change and development. It is recommended that participants be proficient in the Fundamentals of Employees Benefits course content.
Hours: 36
Credits: 3
Pre-Requisites: HRM1050, MATH1210
HRM1240 Creating Health and Wellness Programs
Description: This course provides participants with the fundamentals of health and wellness and presents a process for integrating health and wellness into organizations. This course is intended for a global audience consisting of work-life professionals, benefits professionals and human resources professionals interested in learning about integrating health and wellness into an organization.
Hours: 36
Credits: 3
Pre-Requisites: HRM1050, MATH1210