If you’re interested in starting a career in human resources (HR), there are many Certified HR professional courses in South Africa.
These courses provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to work in HR, such as handling employee needs, recruiting, and managing staff. Completing a certified HR course can help you become a valuable asset in any company.
Certified HR Professional Courses
Certified HR courses are designed to teach you the basics of HR, as well as more advanced skills for managing people and handling workplace issues.
Studying a certified HR course can help you grow in your career, as these courses cover essential HR tasks and build your confidence in the field.
How Do I Start Hr?
Starting a career in HR begins with choosing the right course. For beginners, it’s best to start with an entry-level course, such as a short HR course or a Higher Certificate.
These courses introduce you to basic HR tasks, like keeping employee records and supporting recruitment.
Can I Study Hr Online?
Yes, you can study HR online. Many institutions, like Skills Academy, offer online HR courses that let you study from home.
With online learning, you can access lessons, submit assignments, and receive support from tutors without needing to attend a classroom. This flexibility makes it easy to study HR while managing work or family responsibilities.
Can I Study Hr Without Matric?
Yes, you can study HR without matric by taking a short HR course. At Skills Academy, we offer short HR courses that cover basic skills like record-keeping, recruitment, and staff support.
However, please note that these short courses are not accredited. They are still valuable if you’re just starting out in HR or want to gain basic skills without a matric certificate.
How Can I Choose The Right Hr Course For My Career Goals?
Choosing the right HR course depends on your goals and current qualifications. Skills Academy offers two main types of HR courses:
- Accredited Courses: These are certified and recognised courses, like the NATED N4 to N6 Diplomas, that give you a formal qualification in HR. Accredited courses are best if you want a qualification recognised across South Africa.
- Provider Courses: These are not accredited, but they offer valuable skills in HR. Provider courses are suitable if you want to learn basic HR skills or gain an understanding of HR without a formal qualification.
Understanding the difference between accredited and provider courses can help you make the best choice for your career path.
Accredited Hr Courses South Africa
Accredited HR courses in South Africa give you qualifications recognised by employers and professional bodies. These courses meet set standards and offer diplomas or certificates upon completion. With an accredited HR qualification, you can apply for various HR roles, including HR assistant, recruitment officer, or training coordinator.
Accredited Hr Courses Online
Studying Certified HR professional courses online is a flexible and convenient option for many students. Accredited online courses allow you to study HR from home while gaining a qualification that meets South African standards.
With online support and resources, you can complete assignments and exams to earn a certified diploma or certificate in HR.
What Is An Accredited Course?
An accredited course is a programme that meets official standards set by a recognised body, such as the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO). These courses have been approved to ensure they provide high-quality education.
Completing an accredited course shows employers that you have studied an approved programme that meets industry standards.
Where To Find Accredited Hr Courses
Accredited HR courses are available at various institutions across South Africa. Skills Academy, for example, offers NATED HR courses, which are accredited by the QCTO. Other colleges and universities also offer certified HR courses for different levels, such as Higher Certificates and diplomas.
Accredited HR Courses Online
If you want to start a career in human resources (HR), completing an accredited course online is a great option. Certified HR professional courses give you the skills and knowledge you need to:
- Work with employees
- Manage workplace tasks
- Support a positive work environment
Accredited courses, such as the N4 to N6 HR Management courses, are recognised in South Africa and can help you achieve your career goals in HR.
N4 Human Resource Management Course
The N4 Human Resource Management Course is the first step in the NATED HR series. This course introduces you to basic HR skills and knowledge.
You will learn about important HR tasks, such as managing employee records, helping with hiring, and improving communication in the workplace. This course is ideal if you are new to HR and want to start with the basics.
Course Summary
The N4 course covers key topics that help you understand how HR departments work and support a company. This level gives you the foundation you need for further studies in HR, with assignments and assessments that build your skills.
Subjects
The N4 course includes several subjects that cover different HR tasks. Below is a table of the subjects and what you will learn:
| Subject | What You Will Learn |
|---|---|
| Management Communication | Learn how to communicate well in the workplace, including writing emails and talking with employees. |
| Personnel Management | Understand the basics of working with people, including hiring and keeping staff records. |
| Entrepreneurship and Business Management | Learn about running a business and how HR supports business goals. |
| Computer Practice | Build basic computer skills, like using spreadsheets and word processors, to complete daily HR tasks. |
These subjects give you a strong start in HR, covering the essential skills needed to succeed.
Requirements
To enrol in the N4 Human Resource Management Course, you need a Matric Certificate or an equivalent qualification. This course is the starting point in the NATED series and prepares you for more advanced HR levels.
N5 Human Resource Management Course
The N5 Human Resource Management Course builds on the skills you learned in N4. This course covers more detailed HR skills, such as:
- Managing workplace relations
- Supporting staff training
- Ensuring that employees have what they need to succeed
The N5 level is ideal if you want to take on more responsibilities in HR and move towards a full HR career.
Course Summary
The N5 course goes deeper into HR tasks, adding to what you learned in N4. Through practical exercises and projects, this course prepares you for handling more complex tasks in HR, like employee training and understanding workplace laws.
Subjects
The N5 course subjects provide you with advanced HR knowledge. Here’s a breakdown of what you will learn:
| Subject | What You Will Learn |
|---|---|
| Management Communication N5 | Improve your workplace communication skills, including public speaking and understanding non-verbal cues. |
| Labour Relations N5 | Learn about South African labour laws, employee rights, and how to solve workplace disputes. |
| Personnel Training | Discover how to organise and run training sessions for employees to improve their skills. |
| Computer Practice N5 | Advance your computer skills with more focus on spreadsheets and databases for managing employee information. |
These subjects prepare you for a deeper role in HR, allowing you to handle training, communication, and legal knowledge.
Requirements
To enrol in the N5 Human Resource Management Course, you need to complete the N4 HR course. This course builds on what you learned in N4, adding new topics to deepen your understanding of HR.
N6 Human Resource Management Course
The N6 Human Resource Management Course is the final level in the NATED HR programme. This course prepares you for higher-level roles in HR, such as HR officer or manager. You will learn strategic HR skills, including managing employee wellness, creating training programs, and supporting company goals. The N6 course completes your journey through the NATED HR series.
Course Summary
The N6 course combines all previous knowledge and takes it to a higher level. Through detailed assignments and case studies, this course teaches you advanced HR skills that help you understand how HR supports the overall success of a company.
Subjects
The N6 course covers advanced topics in HR, focusing on management and planning. Below are the subjects and what you’ll learn:
| Subject | What You Will Learn |
|---|---|
| Personnel Management N6 | Learn how to manage HR tasks like hiring, performance reviews, and managing staff needs. |
| Labour Relations N6 | Deepen your knowledge of workplace laws, conflict resolution, and creating fair workplace policies. |
| Personnel Training N6 | Master the skills needed to create, organise, and assess employee training programs. |
| Computer Practice N6 | Focus on advanced computer tasks, like data management, which is useful for tracking employee records and performance. |
These subjects give you the skills to work in higher-level HR positions, where you can lead teams and plan HR strategies.
Requirements
To enrol in the N6 Human Resource Management Course, you need to complete the N5 HR course. Completing the N6 level along with 18 months of practical experience can earn you a National Diploma in Human Resource Management, which is widely recognised in South Africa.
Short HR Certificate Courses
Choosing the right HR course helps you learn the skills you need to work in human resources. HR certificate courses cover important topics like helping employees, managing records, and improving workplace communication.
Each course level, from short to comprehensive, teaches you new skills that are useful for an HR career.
Human Resource Management: Short Course
The Human Resource Management Short Course is a good option if you want to start learning about HR quickly. This course covers the basics of HR tasks, like keeping records and helping with simple employee needs. It’s a good choice if you’re new to HR and want a quick introduction to the field.
Course Summary
This short course focuses on entry-level skills in HR. You’ll learn about simple HR tasks and how HR departments support a company. This course gives you a solid foundation in the basics of HR.
Subjects
The Short Course in HR includes several subjects that cover the basics of HR. Here’s a table of the subjects and what you will learn in each:
| Subject | Description |
|---|---|
| Introduction to Business English | English language skills are important in almost every industry. This subject is offered to all students, and upon completion, you will be more confident in your speaking and writing abilities. This is essential for an HR Manager, who often communicates with various people and drafts paperwork. |
| Organisational Communication | This subject teaches the basics of communication related to leadership, motivation, workplace technology, stress, power dynamics, and diversity. As an HR manager, working effectively with different types of people is crucial for the company’s success. |
| Organisational Skills | Learn to manage various types of information (written, oral, electronic), and develop time management and organisational skills. This subject also covers methods for increasing productivity and organising team ideas—key skills for any efficient HR professional. |
Requirements
For this short course, there are no strict requirements. It’s a beginner-friendly option, perfect for students who are new to HR.
Human Resource Management: Certificate Course
The HR Certificate Course goes beyond the basics. This course is designed for people who want a deeper understanding of HR tasks. It covers more topics, like helping new employees and creating a positive work environment.
This course is ideal for those who want more than an introduction and are considering a career in HR.
Course Summary
The Certificate Course focuses on core HR tasks and responsibilities. You’ll learn how to support employees, improve communication, and keep accurate records, which are all essential for HR roles.
Subjects
The HR Certificate Course includes more detailed subjects to help you build your HR knowledge. Here’s what each subject covers:
| Subject | Description |
|---|---|
| Introduction to Business English | English language skills are essential in almost every industry. This subject is offered to all students, and upon completion, you will be more confident in your speaking and writing abilities. This is crucial for an HR Manager, as the role involves frequent communication and drafting of paperwork. |
| Organisational Communication | This subject covers the basics of communication in areas like leadership, motivation, workplace technology, stress management, power dynamics, and diversity. HR managers must be adept at working with diverse individuals to ensure a successful company. |
| Organisational Skills | Learn to manage various types of information (written, oral, electronic) and develop time management and organisational skills. This subject also covers methods for boosting productivity and organising team ideas—key competencies for any HR professional. |
| Diversity | Gain insights into the fundamentals of diversity, identifying differences, and overcoming diversity barriers. This subject also teaches effective communication and management of a diverse workforce, vital in multicultural workplaces. |
| Coaching | Understand the fundamentals of coaching and the coaching process. You will learn to coach diverse employees, communicate effectively, and conduct interpersonal meetings. Coaching is a significant responsibility for HR managers. |
These subjects provide a strong foundation for working in an HR role and supporting employees.
Requirements
To take the Certificate Course, you should have completed Grade 10. This course is best for those who are ready to take on more HR responsibilities.
Human Resource Management: Comprehensive Certificate Course
The Comprehensive Certificate Course is the most in-depth of these HR courses. This course covers advanced HR topics, including leadership skills, employee wellness, and managing company culture. It’s ideal for people who want a thorough knowledge of HR and may aim for management roles in the future.
Course Summary
The Comprehensive Certificate Course prepares you for advanced HR tasks and leadership roles. Through this course, you’ll gain skills in managing employee wellness, handling workplace challenges, and improving company culture. This course gives you the most complete training in HR.
Subjects
The Comprehensive Certificate Course includes advanced subjects that help you manage a full range of HR tasks. Here’s a look at what you will learn:
| Subject | Description |
|---|---|
| Introduction to Business English | English language skills are important in almost every industry. This subject helps students build confidence in speaking and writing, crucial for HR Managers who communicate with various people and draft important paperwork. |
| Organisational Communication | This subject covers the basics of communication related to leadership and motivation. It includes topics on workplace technology, stress, power dynamics, and diversity. HR managers benefit from these skills to effectively work with diverse teams. |
| Organisational Skills | Learn to manage information (written, oral, electronic), develop time management, and improve team organisation. This subject also covers productivity methods, essential for efficient HR professionals. |
| Diversity | Gain a strong understanding of diversity fundamentals, how to identify differences, and overcome diversity barriers. This subject teaches effective communication and management of a diverse workforce, essential in modern workplaces. |
| Coaching | Learn the fundamentals of coaching and the coaching process, focusing on coaching diverse employees, effective communication, and conducting interpersonal meetings. Coaching is an essential HR responsibility. |
| Performance Management | This subject covers performance management, including planning meetings and performance appraisals. Learn strategies to improve employee performance—key skills for HR managers responsible for assessing job performance. |
| Change Management | This subject provides an understanding of change management, including the change process, identifying obstacles, and managing and adapting to change. Essential for HR professionals who support companies through transitions. |
Requirements
For the Comprehensive Certificate Course, you should have completed Grade 12 or an equivalent qualification. This course is ideal for those who want a thorough understanding of HR and may be interested in future leadership roles.
What Skills Do You Need To Work As An Hr Manager?
To work as an HR manager, you need a mix of people skills, organisational skills, and leadership abilities. HR managers are responsible for helping employees, solving workplace issues, and making sure the company’s goals are met.
This role requires good communication, the ability to motivate others, and strong management skills to keep things running smoothly. Below are some of the key skills needed to be successful in HR management.
Skills You Can Learn In Leadership And Management
Leadership and management courses help you develop skills that are essential for an HR manager role. These skills allow you to communicate well, lead teams, and create a positive work environment.
Each of the following skills can help you become more effective as an HR professional and a team leader.
Effective Written And Verbal Communication Skills
Good communication is at the heart of any HR role. As an HR manager, you’ll need to explain policies, give clear instructions, and listen carefully to employees’ concerns. Effective communication helps prevent misunderstandings and keeps the team working towards the same goals.
Written communication is also important, as you’ll often need to write emails, reports, or company announcements in a clear, professional way. Developing these skills helps build trust with employees and ensures that everyone feels heard and valued.
Leadership Skills
Leadership skills are important for any HR manager, as they help you guide and support employees in reaching their goals. As a leader, you need to make decisions, provide direction, and set a positive example.
Being a good leader also means being fair, approachable, and willing to take responsibility. Strong leadership skills help create a motivated and productive workplace, where employees know they have the support they need to succeed.
Motivational Skills
Motivating others is a key part of being an HR manager. Motivation helps employees stay engaged, work hard, and contribute positively to the company.
Motivational skills include recognising and rewarding good work, setting achievable goals, and providing feedback that encourages improvement. A motivated team is usually a happy and productive team, and as an HR manager, you play a big role in keeping that motivation high.
An Approachable Manner
Having an approachable manner means being open and easy to talk to. This is important for an HR manager because employees need to feel comfortable coming to you with their problems or questions.
An approachable manager listens without judging, respects privacy, and treats everyone fairly. This builds trust and helps create a workplace where employees feel supported and respected.
Organisational Skills
Strong organisational skills are essential for managing multiple tasks and responsibilities. As an HR manager, you’ll need to keep track of employee records, plan events like training sessions, and manage hiring processes.
Good organisation helps you stay on top of these tasks and ensures that nothing important is missed. By staying organised, you can handle your work more efficiently and make sure that HR tasks run smoothly.
How Do I Develop Myself As An HR Professional?
To grow as an HR professional, it’s important to continue learning and improving your skills. You can do this by:
- Taking HR courses to build knowledge in areas like labour law, recruitment, and employee relations.
- Attending workshops and training sessions to stay updated on HR practices.
- Asking for feedback from managers or mentors to identify areas for improvement.
- Practising skills like communication, leadership, and organisation in your daily work.
- Joining HR networks or groups to connect with other professionals and share ideas.
By consistently working on these areas, you can become more effective in your role and open doors to higher positions in HR.
Careers In Human Resources
A career in human resources (HR) can be fulfilling and offers various job opportunities. HR professionals are essential to any organisation because they handle employee needs, recruitment, and workplace policies.
With an HR qualification, you can pursue different career paths, from entry-level roles to advanced positions. Let’s explore the types of careers available in HR and the skills needed to succeed in this field.
What Career Opportunities Can I Pursue With A Certificate In Hr?
With an HR certificate, especially from NATED business courses or short courses, you can find several entry-level jobs. Here’s a look at popular job roles you can pursue with these qualifications:
Jobs With Nated Business Courses
| Job Title | Duties |
|---|---|
| HR Assistant | Manages employee records, assists in recruitment, and handles basic HR tasks. |
| Payroll Assistant | Processes payroll, checks time sheets, and answers employee payment questions. |
| Recruitment Clerk | Supports the recruitment team by scheduling interviews, reviewing resumes, and updating records. |
| Training Coordinator | Organises training sessions and tracks employee progress in learning programs. |
Jobs With Short Hr Courses
| Job Title | Duties |
|---|---|
| Office Administrator | Manages paperwork, organises files, and supports the HR team with daily tasks. |
| HR Records Clerk | Helps maintain employee files and tracks HR documents. |
| HR Intern | Gains experience in tasks like recruitment and employee support. |
| Assistant Recruiter | Supports recruiters with CV reviews, interview scheduling, and hiring tasks. |
What Is The Best Hr Qualification To Have?
The Certified HR professional courses like NATED N4 to N6 Diplomas are some of the best qualifications for HR in South Africa. These courses are recognised and provide comprehensive training in HR tasks, including recruitment, employee support, and workplace communication.
With a NATED qualification, you can access a wider range of job opportunities and increase your chances of moving into higher HR roles.
Which Hr Certification Pays Most?
The NATED N6 National Diploma in HR typically offers the best pay among entry-level HR certifications. This qualification, combined with 18 months of practical experience, prepares you for better-paying positions in HR, such as HR officer or training manager.
Certified HR professional courses that provide recognised diplomas or certificates are generally preferred by employers and can lead to better-paying roles.
What Are The 7 Main Functions Of Hr?
HR departments handle a variety of tasks to support employees and the organisation. Here are the seven main functions of HR:
| HR Function | Description |
|---|---|
| Recruitment and Staffing | Finding and hiring the best candidates to fill open positions. |
| Training and Development | Helping employees improve their skills and knowledge to grow within the company. |
| Employee Relations | Managing relationships among employees, addressing concerns, and solving conflicts. |
| Compensation and Benefits | Overseeing employee salaries, bonuses, health benefits, and other perks. |
| Performance Management | Setting goals, evaluating employee work, and ensuring high performance. |
| Compliance and Labour Relations | Ensuring the company follows labour laws and employee rights. |
| Health and Safety | Creating a safe work environment and managing health policies to protect employees. |
How Do Beginners Get Into Hr?
Beginners can start an HR career by enrolling in entry-level HR courses, such as a short course or an N4 National Certificate. These courses teach the basics of HR, like recruitment, record-keeping, and employee support.
Volunteering, internships, or applying for assistant roles can also help beginners gain hands-on experience and build their skills in HR.
Is Hr A Stressful Job?
HR can be stressful at times, as HR professionals handle tasks like solving workplace conflicts, managing employee complaints, and supporting company policies.
However, with good organisational skills, communication, and support from a team, HR professionals can manage these challenges effectively. Many find HR rewarding because they get to help employees and improve the workplace.
What Is The Highest Position In Human Resources?
The highest position in HR is often the Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) or HR Director. These roles involve overseeing all HR functions within a company and working with top management to set strategies and goals for employee management.
With advanced qualifications like Certified HR professional courses and years of experience, you can work your way up to these high-level positions in HR.
Frequently Asked Questions
A certified HR professional is someone who has completed Certified HR professional courses that meet specific standards in South Africa.
These courses, like the NATED N4 to N6 National Diploma in HR, teach key skills needed to work in HR. A certified HR professional is trained in tasks like recruiting, employee support, and handling workplace issues.
To become an HR professional, you’ll need to complete Certified HR professional courses. These courses teach the basics of HR, including recruitment, employee relations, and training.
Most people start with a National Certificate (N4) and continue to the N6 Diploma level. Practical experience, like internships or entry-level roles, also helps build your skills in HR.
The best diploma for HR in South Africa is the NATED N6 National Diploma in Human Resource Management. This diploma is widely recognised and covers essential HR skills, including labour laws, recruitment, and employee management. Completing the N4, N5, and N6 courses, along with practical experience, earns you the N6 National Diploma.
An HR professional with a diploma in South Africa typically earns between R15,000 and R25,000 per month. Entry-level roles may start around R10,000 per month, while more experienced HR professionals can earn up to R40,000 monthly.
Yes, completing the N6 level in HR, along with 18 months of practical work experience, qualifies you for the N6 National Diploma in Human Resource Management. This diploma is recognised by employers and is valued in the HR field.
To be qualified in HR, you should complete an accredited HR course, like the NATED N4 to N6 series. These courses cover key HR topics and prepare you for tasks such as recruiting, managing employee records, and supporting workplace policies. Practical experience in HR also builds your qualifications.
Some popular specialisations in HR include:
- Recruitment: Focusing on hiring the right candidates.
- Employee Relations: Managing relationships and solving workplace conflicts.
- Training and Development: Helping employees grow their skills.
The best specialisation depends on your interests and career goals, as each area plays an important role in HR.
An HR professional can work in various HR roles, such as an HR assistant or recruiter. An HR manager, however, has more responsibility and oversees HR functions. Such as managing teams, setting policies, and supporting business goals. HR managers often need more experience and higher qualifications.
HR stands for human resources and refers to the people-focused department in a company. HRM stands for human resource management, which includes all the strategies, policies, and practices used to manage employees effectively. HRM is the process that keeps the HR department running smoothly.
Good HR professionals need qualities like:
- Good communication: To interact clearly and professionally with employees.
- Empathy: To understand and support employee needs.
- Problem-solving skills: To handle workplace issues effectively.
- Organisation: To manage records and tasks efficiently.
- Leadership: To guide teams and create a positive work environment.
Subjects like Business Studies, Communication, and Basic Computer Skills are useful for studying HR. These subjects help you understand business operations, improve workplace communication, and handle digital tools used in HR.
The duration of an HR course depends on the level:
- Short Courses: Usually 3 to 6 months.
- Higher Certificate: Takes about 1 year.
- NATED N4 to N6 Diplomas: Takes about 3 years, including practical experience.
Each level builds on the previous one, giving you the skills needed for more advanced HR roles.
