HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT SCHOLARSHIPS

Updated December 8, 2022

If you're aiming for management positions in a company's HR department to serve as a vital link between executives and employees, then human resource management scholarships can go a long way towards making these professional wishes come true. From small businesses to large corporations and government agencies, organizations of all sizes are depending on HR ...

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If you're aiming for management positions in a company's HR department to serve as a vital link between executives and employees, then human resource management scholarships can go a long way towards making these professional wishes come true.

From small businesses to large corporations and government agencies, organizations of all sizes are depending on HR managers to recruit, support, and retain top talent for staying ahead in today's competitive market. In fact, the overall employment of managers in human resources is expected to much faster than the average for other management occupations at 13 percent before 2022.

For aspiring HR leaders like you, the following are 20 lucrative scholarships available to reduce the tuition costs of earning an undergraduate or graduate degree in human resource management.

1. Art Edgarian/Charles Umshied Scholarship

Deadline: March 1st

In honor of the man responsible for establishing the first student chapter of the American Society for Personnel Association in San Antonio and one of his successors, the Art Edgarian/Charles Umshied Scholarship is granted annually by the SAHMA to provide $1,000 for student members majoring in human resource management. Applicants must submit an official college transcript, one letter of recommendation, and a two-page essay discussing one current event in the human resources field. Selection will be based upon HR coursework, SHRM membership, student chapter participation, academic record, volunteer activities, and applicants' commitment to a career in HR.

Contact

Art Edgarian/Charles Umshied Scholarship
12758 Cimarron Path Suite 128
San Antonio, TX 78249
(210) 797-5850

Scholarship Link

2. Barbara Sanchez Scholarship

Deadline: July 15th

In honor of the late HR director at Newsday and dedicated MHRA leader, the Barbara Sanchez Scholarship is awarded annually through the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) to offer $1,500 in financial support to five outstanding HR professionals who are working full-time in the media or broadcasting field. Candidates must be national SHRM members, reside in one SHRM domestic region, be pursuing a college degree in human resources, and be enrolling in an accredited higher learning institution. Recipients will be chosen based on work experience, future career plans in media, volunteer activities, financial need, and letters of recommendation.

Contact

Barbara Sanchez Scholarship
1800 Duke Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
(703) 548-3440

Scholarship Link

3. CHRA Undergraduate Student Scholarship

Deadline: April 1st

Through the Chesapeake Human Resources Association (CHRA), a scholarship is presented annually for $1,000 to an undergraduate student who is enrolled full or part-time in an accredited institution in the Greater Baltimore area to pursue a degree related to human resources management. Eligible applicants must be working in a non-exempt or entry-level exempt role, have CHRA membership, be actively involved in HR-related organizations, display leadership abilities, and show a dedication to the human resources field. With the application, students must attach a current resume, official school transcript, and two reference letters.

Contact

CHRA Undergraduate Student Scholarship
720 Light Street
Baltimore, MD 21230
(410) 752-3318

Scholarship Link

4. Drew Young Student Scholarship

Deadline: August 26th

Annually, the Dallas HR Association offers the Drew Young Student Scholarship for $2,000 with the hope of encouraging outstanding undergraduate and graduate students to prepare for a rewarding career in the human resource management field. Qualified applicants must be enrolled full-time in an accredited institution, carry a minimum of 12 credit hours per term, have a minimum overall GPA of 3.0, have a declared major or concentration in HR, and participate in their university's SHRM student chapter. Decisions will be based on scholastic achievements, involvement in HR-related organizations, human resources internship experience, moral character, and essay submissions.

Contact

Drew Young Student Scholarship
5001 LBJ Freeway Suite 800
Dallas, TX 75244
(214) 631-8775

Scholarship Link

5. Garden State Council SHRM Leadership Scholarship

Deadline: May 1st

Founded with the goal of supporting current and aspiring HR professionals, the Garden State Council SHRM offers the Leadership Scholarship annually for $1,000 to two current students pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in human resources management, personnel management, industrial/organizational psychology, or labor relations. Applicants must be New Jersey residents, be enrolled in any of the state's universities, have completed at least 60 college credits, and hold a minimum overall GPA of 3.0. All applications should be accompanied by a current resume, an official transcript, three letters of recommendation, and a two-page personal statement describing career interests in HR.

Contact

Garden State Council SHRM Leadership Scholarship
94 Rockafeller Rd. Suite 111
Piscataway, NJ 08854
(732) 445-9412

Scholarship Link

6. HR Leadership Scholarship Awards

Deadline: March 13th

Sponsored by the HR Leadership Awards of Greater Washington, this scholarship program is structured to develop strategic leadership in human resources by providing three $4,000 awards annually to current undergraduate or graduate students pursuing an HR-related degree at an university in the greater Washington, DC hub. Candidates must reside anywhere from Richmond to Baltimore, be registered in an accredited human resources program, and have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. Recipients will have the choice to utilize the funding towards any educational program or professional certification that will enhance their ability to lead in the human resources field.

Contact

HR Leadership Scholarship Awards
2807 North Glebe Rd.
Arlington, VA 22207
(703) 284-5916

Scholarship Link

7. HR Southwest Excellence in Education Scholarship

Deadline: August 1st

As part of the HR Southwest Conference, a one-year Excellence in Education Student Scholarship is presented for $1,000 annually to an extraordinary full or part-time college student enrolled at an accredited U.S. institution. Eligible applicants must carry a minimum of three credit hours per semester, have at least junior-level status, be members of an affiliated SHRM chapter in the Southwest Central region, have a declared major or emphasis in human resource management, and possess an overall GPA of 3.0 or higher. Online applications are required to include a current resume, an official college transcript, and two letters of recommendation.

Contact

HR Southwest Excellence in Education Scholarship
4100 Spring Valley Road Suite 300
Dallas, TX 75244
(214) 631-8775 ext. 222

Scholarship Link

8. IPMA-HR Graduate Study Fellowship

Deadline: June 6th

Each year, the IPMA-HR Graduate Study Fellowship is administered through the International Public Management Association for Human Resources to award $2,000 to two individuals currently seeking master's degrees in public administration, business administration, or law with a specialization related to human resources. Applicants must be IPMA-HR members, maintain a minimum overall GPA of 3.0, have at least five years of full-time professional experience in HR, display solid leadership skills, and be committed to a career in public sector human resources. For consideration, students must supply a fellowship form, proof of enrollment, official college transcripts, and a statement explaining their relevant HR career interests.

Contact

IPMA-HR Graduate Study Fellowship
1617 Duke Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
(703) 549-7100

Scholarship Link

9. John D. Erdlen Scholarship

Deadline: July 31st

In memory of the founder of the New England Human Resources Association (NEHRA), the John D. Erdlen Scholarship is awarded annually for $3,000 to an outstanding full-time undergraduate or graduate student preparing for a career in human resources management. Applicants must be enrolled at an accredited university in New England, be in good academic standing, agree to attend an interview in Boston, and plan to participate in the NEHRA Annual Conference in Falmouth. Applications should be emailed with a current resume, an academic transcript, two letters of recommendation, and a 750-word personal essay explaining why they're interested in an HR profession.

Contact

John D. Erdlen Scholarship
490 Virginia Road Suite 32
Concord, MA 01742
(781) 235-2900

Scholarship Link

10. Karl B. Zimmerman Memorial Scholarships

Deadline: March 20th

Ranging in value from $1,000 to $2,000 each, the Karl B. Zimmerman Memorial Scholarships are granted each year through the Austin Human Resource Management Association (AHRMA) to recognize full and part-time HR students residing in Bastrop, Burnet, Hays, Travis, or Williamson counties of Central Texas. Eligible candidates must be majoring in human resources, be actively involved in an SHRM student chapter, have documented work experience in HR, and achieve a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Applicants must enclose a one-page autobiographical essay outlining their career goals and qualifications for the scholarship.

Contact

Karl B. Zimmerman Memorial Scholarships
2525 Wallingwood Drive Building 13A
Austin, TX 78746
(512) 328-2476

Scholarship Link

11. KHHRA Foundation Scholarship Program

Deadline: March 31st

For more than 12 years, the Kansas Hospital Human Resources Association (KHHRA) has hosted an annual scholarship program for individuals enrolled or planning to enroll full-time in a human resources certificate, degree, or credentialing program. Applicants must be attending a two or four-year in-state institution, be pursuing an HR career in healthcare, exhibit financial need, and show clear interest in improving the quality of patient care in Kansas. To qualify, candidates must submit a letter of reference, complete transcript, employment history, proof of enrollment, and a 500-word essay describing their leadership potential.

Contact

KHHRA Foundation Scholarship Program
215 Southeast 8th Avenue
Topeka, KS 66603
(785) 233-7436

Scholarship Link

12. Lisa Burke Scholarship Award

Deadline: November 1st

As part of the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM) Foundation, the Lisa Burke Scholarship Award is distributed annually for $2,500 to student members currently enrolled full or part-time in a bachelor's degree program with a major or emphasis area in human resource management. Qualified applicants should have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, have completed at least one HR management course, and submit two letters of reference. All candidates will be judged on the basis of SHRM student chapter involvement, commitment to the HR profession, academic achievement, leadership experience, and financial need.

Contact

Lisa Burke Scholarship Award
1800 Duke Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
(703) 535-6219

Scholarship Link

13. Michael R. Losey Scholarship

Deadline: October 10th

As an annual merit-based award, the Michael R. Losey Scholarship is granted through the Greater Valley Forge Human Resource Association (GVFHRA) to provide $2,000 for undergraduate students and $3,500 for graduate students annually. Qualified candidates must be enrolled in accredited universities in the Greater Philadelphia area, have at least one year of studies remaining, have a declared concentration in human resources management or organizational management, and show strong academic ability. Selection will be based on applicants' fieldwork experience, HR coursework, extra-curricular involvement, essay answers, faculty recommendation letters, and early accomplishments in human resources.

Contact

Michael R. Losey Scholarship
2199 County Line Road
Villanova, PA 19085
(484) 680-7711

Scholarship Link

14. Military Human Resource Foundation Scholarship

Deadline: January 31st

Offering $250 per quarter for a total of $1,000 in funding annually, the Military Human Resource Foundation (MHRF) has designed a scholarship program to encourage young professionals to improve the HR practices of compensation, hiring, recruiting, transition, career development, and training in military-related settings. Applicants must be pursuing a bachelor's or master's degree in any HR field, be enrolled through an accredited higher learning institution, and have less than 10 years of work experience related to supporting military human resources. For consideration, candidates should attach a one-page personal statement explaining what they're working to achieve with this scholarship opportunity.

Contact

Military Human Resource Foundation Scholarship
999 Waterside Drive
Norfolk, VA 23510
(757) 777-3715

Scholarship Link

15. National Association of African Americans in HR Scholarship

Deadline: December 30th

Due to its dedication to preparing highly qualified HR professionals, the National Association of African Americans in Human Resources (NAAAHR) awards a $1,000 scholarship annually for an undergraduate or graduate student pursuing a degree in human resource management or organizational behavior/development. Applicants must be currently enrolled at an accredited university in the New York metro area, have successfully completed at least two HR-related courses, maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, and participate actively in community service. Any qualified students of color residing in New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut can apply with an application and 500-word essay.

Contact

National Association of African Americans in HR Scholarship
P.O. Box 4195
New York, NY 10163
(212) 726-2028

Scholarship Link

16. Peter Veglahn Memorial Scholarship

Deadline: March 19th

In collaboration with the Shenandoah Valley SHRM, the Peter Veglahn Memorial Scholarship is awarded for $1,000 annually through the Community Foundation of Central Blue Ridge in memory of a long-time member and lifelong professor at James Madison University. Eligible applicants must be enrolled full-time in an accredited college in the continental United States, be pursuing a degree in human resources, exhibit leadership skills, be involved in extra-curricular activities, and maintain good academic standing. Applications will only be accepted from students residing or attending school in Shenandoah, Rockingham, Page, or Augusta counties.

Contact

Peter Veglahn Memorial Scholarship
P.O. Box 815
Staunton, VA 24402
(540) 213-2150

Scholarship Link

17. PIHRA Foundation HRCI Certification Scholarship

Deadline: April 30th

Annually, the Professionals in Human Resources Association (PIHRA) offers national grants for up to $500 each for selected HR students or professionals who are seeking an approved course of instruction to successfully obtain certification as a PHR, GPHR, SPHR, PHR-CA, or SPHR-CA. Eligible recipients must be currently working in the human resources field, plan to take their certification exam between May 1st and June 30th of the current year, and show a clear commitment to a professional career in HR. Applicants must attach a current resume, signed application, and an essay response describing how certification will enhance their HR career.

Contact

PIHRA Foundation HRCI Certification Scholarship
360 North Sepulveda Blvd. Suite 2020
El Segundo, CA 90245
(310) 416-1210

Scholarship Link

18. San Joaquin HR Association Scholarship

Deadline: April 17th

With the goal of helping further the education of the area's next generation of future human resources leaders, the San Joaquin HR Association (SJHRA) has awarded $1,000 scholarships annually for graduating high school seniors residing in San Joaquin county of California who will major in human resources, business, management, or psychology. Eligible applicants must plan to attend a two or four-year college full-time, maintain a minimum overall GPA of 3.3, display a commitment to community service, and exhibit financial need. Application packets should include income tax statements, unofficial transcripts, proof of college registration, one letter of recommendation, a current photo, and a personal essay.

Contact

San Joaquin HR Association Scholarship
2972 West Swain Road Suite 115
Stockton, CA 95219

19. Tim Frodge Student Scholarships

Deadline: November 7th

Through the Northern Kentucky Society for Human Resource Management (NKY SHRM), the Tim Frodge Student Scholarships are awarded annually to outstanding students currently enrolled in a human resources major at Northern Kentucky University, Thomas More College, or Gateway Community and Technical College. Applicants must be Kentucky residents, be taking HR-related coursework, show academic excellence, have leadership abilities, and be involved in the community or their school campus. Applications won't be accepted unless an unofficial transcript, letter of recommendation, and current one-page resume are included.

Contact

Tim Frodge Student Scholarships
P.O. Box 18211
Erlanger, KY 41018
(859) 444-6700

Scholarship Link

20. WorldatWork Scholarship Program

Deadline: March 31st

As a recognized global toward rewards association that values certification, the WorldatWork Scholarship Program has been established to provide financial support to students and young HR practitioners who are seeking credentials as a Certified Compensation Professional (CCP), Certified Benefits Professional (CBP), Global Remuneration Professional (GRP), and/or Work-Life Certified Professional (WLCP). Applicants must have been employed in an HR role for at least two years, but still be too underfunded to attain professional development. Recipients will be given a one-year membership, e-learning certification preparation courses, and free computer-based exams to reach their fullest potential.

Contact

WorldatWork Scholarship Program
14040 North Northsight Blvd.
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
(877) 951-9191

Scholarship Link

Whether you're interested in becoming a benefits manager, training specialist, recruiter, HRIS analyst, labor relations consultant, or Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO), you'll need to first pursue at least a bachelor's degree in post-secondary education. Since tuition prices and other college expenses can be lofty, it's essential that you arm yourself with plenty of financial aid resources that won't need to be repaid upon graduation. Consider applying to one or more of these first-rate human resource management scholarships to earn free money on your pathway towards a bright career in HR.

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